Opetaia to face Glanton for inaugural Zuffa championship |
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Zuffa Boxing has announced that, for the main Event in Zuffa Boxing 04, Australia's Jai Opetaia (pictured) and Brandon Glanton of the United States will fight for the inaugural Zuffa Boxing cruiserweight championship. The fight will take place on March 8th at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas. Opetaia is the reigning IBF champion. His record is 29-0, with three IBF defenses against non-descript challengers in 2025. His efforts at unification have been largely ignored by the other champions and sanctioning bodies. Glanton is 2103 and is coming off a 2025 that saw him lose to former cruiserweight champion Chris Billam-Smith then defeat former light heavyweight champion Marcus Browne.
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Opetaia to face Glanton for inaugural Zuffa championship
Zuffa Boxing has announced that, for the main Event in Zuffa Boxing 04, Australia's Jai Opetaia (pictured) and Brandon Glanton of the United States will fight for the inaugural Zuffa Boxing cruiserweight championship. The fight will take place on March 8th at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas. Opetaia is the reigning IBF champion. His record is 29-0, with three IBF defenses against non-descript challengers in 2025. His efforts at unification have been largely ignored by the other champions and sanctioning bodies. Glanton is 2103 and is coming off a 2025 that saw him lose to former cruiserweight champion Chris Billam-Smith then defeat former light heavyweight champion Marcus Browne.
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Clutch performance: Veyre holds her way to a title |
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Caroline Veyre W10 Delfine Persoon... Canada's Caroline Veyre defeated Delfine Persoon in a very ugly fight for the vacant WBC junior lightweight championship. Veyre fought like a female John Ruiz, clutching and holding Person excessively throughout the ten rounds. The tactic worked well for Veyre, as referee Rodriguez deducted a total of four points, two from each boxer, but allowed Veyre to negate Persoon's offense. In rounds four and seven, as Veyre held Persoon, the referee unreasonably deducted points from Person for hitting behind the head. Veyre's holding penalties, both richly deserved, came in rounds five and nine/ The verdict of 95-91, 94-92 and 98-88 in Veyre's favor was received with resounding boos from the Grand Rapids, Michigan crowd. The 41 year-old Persoon (50-4, 20 KOs) knows she won't get many more championship opportunities and was extremely upset with the officiating. Veyre (11-1) moved up from featherweight for this opportunity.
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Clutch performance: Veyre holds her way to a title
Caroline Veyre W10 Delfine Persoon... Canada's Caroline Veyre defeated Delfine Persoon in a very ugly fight for the vacant WBC junior lightweight championship. Veyre fought like a female John Ruiz, clutching and holding Person excessively throughout the ten rounds. The tactic worked well for Veyre, as referee Rodriguez deducted a total of four points, two from each boxer, but allowed Veyre to negate Persoon's offense. In rounds four and seven, as Veyre held Persoon, the referee unreasonably deducted points from Person for hitting behind the head. Veyre's holding penalties, both richly deserved, came in rounds five and nine/ The verdict of 95-91, 94-92 and 98-88 in Veyre's favor was received with resounding boos from the Grand Rapids, Michigan crowd. The 41 year-old Persoon (50-4, 20 KOs) knows she won't get many more championship opportunities and was extremely upset with the officiating. Veyre (11-1) moved up from featherweight for this opportunity.
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Pagan continues his lightweight roll |
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Joshua Pagan W10 Bryan Jimenez... On Tuesday on a Salita Promotions card at GLC Live in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Joshua Pagan continued his climb in the lightweight rankings, defeating Bryan Jimenez by wide unanimous decision over ten rounds. Pagan was fighting in his hometown, and improved to 15-0. Official scores were 99-91 (twice) and 100-90. Jimenez returns to Nicaragua with a record of 18-3. All three losses came against undefeated boxers.
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Pagan continues his lightweight roll
Joshua Pagan W10 Bryan Jimenez... On Tuesday on a Salita Promotions card at GLC Live in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Joshua Pagan continued his climb in the lightweight rankings, defeating Bryan Jimenez by wide unanimous decision over ten rounds. Pagan was fighting in his hometown, and improved to 15-0. Official scores were 99-91 (twice) and 100-90. Jimenez returns to Nicaragua with a record of 18-3. All three losses came against undefeated boxers.
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Interim title doubleheader on Saturday in Russia |
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Georgiy Yunovidov defends the WBA interim bridgerweight title this Saturday against Vartan Arutyunyan in the main event in Chelyabinsk, Russia a city near the Kazakh border. The Russian Yunovidov is known for his technical solidity and durability, boasting a professional record of 12-2 including IBA pro bouts. Arutyunyan is 11-0 but not really tested, with the most notable name on his resume being Dilan Prasovic. The winner will move one step closer to a shot at the regular WBA Bridgerweight title, currently held by fellow Russian Muslim Gadzhimagomedov. On the same show, the WBA creates another interim title as Azerbaijan’s Elnur Samedov squares off against Colombia’s John Lenon Gutiérrez at 130 pounds. Samedov (21-1) enters the matchup with the advantage of fighting on familiar ground, having made Russia his regular base of operations. The Colombian Gutiérrez, meanwhile, is 11-0 but completely untested.
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Interim title doubleheader on Saturday in Russia
Georgiy Yunovidov defends the WBA interim bridgerweight title this Saturday against Vartan Arutyunyan in the main event in Chelyabinsk, Russia a city near the Kazakh border. The Russian Yunovidov is known for his technical solidity and durability, boasting a professional record of 12-2 including IBA pro bouts. Arutyunyan is 11-0 but not really tested, with the most notable name on his resume being Dilan Prasovic. The winner will move one step closer to a shot at the regular WBA Bridgerweight title, currently held by fellow Russian Muslim Gadzhimagomedov. On the same show, the WBA creates another interim title as Azerbaijan’s Elnur Samedov squares off against Colombia’s John Lenon Gutiérrez at 130 pounds. Samedov (21-1) enters the matchup with the advantage of fighting on familiar ground, having made Russia his regular base of operations. The Colombian Gutiérrez, meanwhile, is 11-0 but completely untested.
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Mick Conlan books March fight in Belfast |
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MF Pro brings back Irish hero Mick Conlan on Friday, March 20th at the SSE Arena in Belfast. Conlan will face Kevin Walsh (19-0), who will be crossing the Atlantic from Brockton, Massachusetts, the town that middleweight legend Marvin Hagler called home. In 2023, Conlan suffered back-to-back losses to Luis Alberto Lopez (an IBF title fight) and then Jordan Gill. Conlan returned with two decent wins in 2025. Including the World Series of Boxing, Conlan's pro record is 26-6. Walsh dominated the junior lightweight scene in New England for the past two years, but is taking a step up in class here.
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Mick Conlan books March fight in Belfast
MF Pro brings back Irish hero Mick Conlan on Friday, March 20th at the SSE Arena in Belfast. Conlan will face Kevin Walsh (19-0), who will be crossing the Atlantic from Brockton, Massachusetts, the town that middleweight legend Marvin Hagler called home. In 2023, Conlan suffered back-to-back losses to Luis Alberto Lopez (an IBF title fight) and then Jordan Gill. Conlan returned with two decent wins in 2025. Including the World Series of Boxing, Conlan's pro record is 26-6. Walsh dominated the junior lightweight scene in New England for the past two years, but is taking a step up in class here.
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Tonight: Persoon vs. Veyre for vacant title |
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Delfine Persoon and Caroline Veyre will vie for the vacant WBC junior lightweight championship Tuesday night at GLC Live in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and live on DAZN. Persoon (50-3, 20 KOs), a former two-time lightweight world champion, counts world-class experience against the likes of Katie Taylor, Alycia Baumgardner and Christina Linardatou to name a few. The 41 year-old Belgian veteran produced a sixth-round TKO of Ana Maria Lozano in June — her only ring appearance of 2025. Meanwhile, Veyre (10-1) is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Licia Boudersa in July. The title was last held by the division's true world champion, Alicia Baumgardner, but the WBC stripped her because it refuses to allow women to take twelve round fights.
DAZN News analyzed the keys to victory for both Persoon and Veyre heading into this title match.
Delfine Persoon’s Keys to Victory
Assert jab without overextending. Persoon throws a blunt jab as part of her fight repertoire and the sooner she is able to assert this weapon, the quicker the Belgian fighter can pressure behind it. That makes it rather imperative for her to start finding a home with the stick early into this championship fight against Caroline Veyre. That being said, Persoon’s challenge is landing the jab without overextending which could leave her vulnerable to stinging counterpunches.
Pressure Veyre into cramped quarters. Once Persoon touches Veyre with that jab, she can start closing the distance between her and the Canadian fighter. Pressuring and locking Veyre into the phone booth, while throwing away the key, gives Persoon her best chance to deliver heavy-handed damage.
Punch in traffic. Within the pressure she is able to generate, Persoon must punch in traffic. Accomplishing this could erode away at Veyre’s amateur sweet science pedigree, even goading the Canadian into a slugfest which would favor Persoon. The former two-time lightweight world champion is adept at roughing up opponents and getting the better of exchanges in the pocket. She can deploy this strategy to tasting super featherweight world title glory.
Caroline Veyre’s Keys to Victory
Pepper Persoon with the jab. Where Persoon is more blunt with her jab, Veyre peppers opponents with her own stick. This touch-and-go tactic with the jab could stifle Persoon, forcing the Belgian fighter to reset her offense with each landing. The jab is where Veyre’s offense should start.
Rely on lateral movement. Another key for Veyre in this fight is her lateral movement as the Canadian fighter tends to be light on her feet, moving around the ring with smooth flow. That is opposed to Persoon who is methodical, but sometimes clunky on her feet. Veyre should look to exploit this advantage and ride it to victory as the better footwork could allow her to get in and out of spots with relative ease, landing her shots while evading harm’s way.
Catch Persoon lunging in. Persoon tends to lunge in behind the jab as her way of producing forward-fighting pressure. Veyre has the ring IQ to time these lunges and catch an incoming Persoon with sharp counterpunches. The sharper these shots are, the better Veyre will do on judges’ scorecards, perhaps pointing her way to the WBC super featherweight crown.
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Tonight: Persoon vs. Veyre for vacant title
Delfine Persoon and Caroline Veyre will vie for the vacant WBC junior lightweight championship Tuesday night at GLC Live in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and live on DAZN. Persoon (50-3, 20 KOs), a former two-time lightweight world champion, counts world-class experience against the likes of Katie Taylor, Alycia Baumgardner and Christina Linardatou to name a few. The 41 year-old Belgian veteran produced a sixth-round TKO of Ana Maria Lozano in June — her only ring appearance of 2025. Meanwhile, Veyre (10-1) is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Licia Boudersa in July. The title was last held by the division's true world champion, Alicia Baumgardner, but the WBC stripped her because it refuses to allow women to take twelve round fights.
DAZN News analyzed the keys to victory for both Persoon and Veyre heading into this title match.
Delfine Persoon’s Keys to Victory
Assert jab without overextending. Persoon throws a blunt jab as part of her fight repertoire and the sooner she is able to assert this weapon, the quicker the Belgian fighter can pressure behind it. That makes it rather imperative for her to start finding a home with the stick early into this championship fight against Caroline Veyre. That being said, Persoon’s challenge is landing the jab without overextending which could leave her vulnerable to stinging counterpunches.
Pressure Veyre into cramped quarters. Once Persoon touches Veyre with that jab, she can start closing the distance between her and the Canadian fighter. Pressuring and locking Veyre into the phone booth, while throwing away the key, gives Persoon her best chance to deliver heavy-handed damage.
Punch in traffic. Within the pressure she is able to generate, Persoon must punch in traffic. Accomplishing this could erode away at Veyre’s amateur sweet science pedigree, even goading the Canadian into a slugfest which would favor Persoon. The former two-time lightweight world champion is adept at roughing up opponents and getting the better of exchanges in the pocket. She can deploy this strategy to tasting super featherweight world title glory.
Caroline Veyre’s Keys to Victory
Pepper Persoon with the jab. Where Persoon is more blunt with her jab, Veyre peppers opponents with her own stick. This touch-and-go tactic with the jab could stifle Persoon, forcing the Belgian fighter to reset her offense with each landing. The jab is where Veyre’s offense should start.
Rely on lateral movement. Another key for Veyre in this fight is her lateral movement as the Canadian fighter tends to be light on her feet, moving around the ring with smooth flow. That is opposed to Persoon who is methodical, but sometimes clunky on her feet. Veyre should look to exploit this advantage and ride it to victory as the better footwork could allow her to get in and out of spots with relative ease, landing her shots while evading harm’s way.
Catch Persoon lunging in. Persoon tends to lunge in behind the jab as her way of producing forward-fighting pressure. Veyre has the ring IQ to time these lunges and catch an incoming Persoon with sharp counterpunches. The sharper these shots are, the better Veyre will do on judges’ scorecards, perhaps pointing her way to the WBC super featherweight crown.
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March 21st: Liddard to defend British title vs. Denny |
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George Liddard will defend his British & Commonwealth middleweight titles for the first time against Tyler Denny at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday, March 21st, live on DAZN. Liddard was crowned champion last October, just down the road at the East End’s fabled York Hall, when he stopped Kieron Conway in the tenth round. Now the 23-year old, whose sights are firmly set on becoming a future world Champion, is ready to overcome another stern test in what promises to be a sold out arena in Stratford when he comes up against the former European middleweight ruler in Denny.
“I’m really looking forward to March 21 at the Copper Box,” said Liddard. “To be headlining at such a big arena is great and I will put on a performance worthy of it. Tyler is a vastly experienced opponent so I cannot take him or anything lightly going into this. He’s a former European Champion, so when I win this fight it will stand me in good stead to fight for that title next. Let’s get it!”
Midlands man Denny, meanwhile, is confident his experience will help him prevail in the capital. “I’m buzzing to be fighting for the British and Commonwealth Titles and would like to thank Matchroom Boxing for the opportunity,” said Denny, who bounced back last year with two wins over Grant Dennis and Elvis Ahorgah after suffering defeat by Hamzah Sheeraz at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. I’m expecting a tough fight, as I have a lot of respect for George as a fighter. But I will be taking the belts back home with me.”
Giorgio Visioli has been making plenty of noise Stateside after his gym run-in with fellow top prospect Curmel Moton recently. But he returns to the capital on March 21st to make the first defense of his English lightweight title against a seasoned campaigner in Levi Giles. Visioli is earmarked for a bright future after he unanimously overcame Joe Howarth when he headlined at the Indigo at The O2 last December – and he’s eager to kick on for the year ahead. “I’m looking forward to being out again in London defending my English title,” said Visioli. “Levi Giles is a good opponent for me. He’s been in with some well-known English names and he’s got a good record but on fight night I’m going to show exactly where I stand in this division. There are levels to this, and they’ll be shown on March 21st.”
Jimmy Sains is another youngster who is determined to push ahead in 2026 as he looks forward to facing Derrick Osaze. The ‘Brentwood Beterbiev’ is a stablemate of Liddard’s at Tony Sims’ Matchroom Elite Gym in Essex, and he is excited to be kicking off his campaign for the year in east London. “It’s a great card and I am looking forward to a step-up in opponent which gives me the perfect opportunity to show more of my boxing ability and show what level I’m at – and where I’m eventually destined to be.”
Now undefeated in seven fights, with all seven by way of knockout, super middleweight Taylor Bevan will bring his legion of fans from the South Coast – along with local lad, and exciting middleweight, Leli Buttigieg who will have his East End faithful in attendance.
Connor Mitchell – managed by Conor Benn – delivered a strong debut when the 21 year-old featherweight staged a two-round demolition of Fernando Joaquin Valdez just before last Christmas. And Mitchell is hungry to continue his early momentum on March 21, on the doorstep of his beloved West Ham United Football Club. “It’s my second professional bout and the first fight of 2026, in what should be a big year ahead,” said Mitchell. “I’m looking forward to being on another exciting Matchroom Boxing card, live on DAZN, with a host of other great fighters. I can’t wait to pick up from where I left off. Let’s go!”
In the same weight class, the energetic Adam Maca is back for his fifth contest – with all four so far resulting in stoppage wins. A focused Maca said: “This is my first one of 2026. I cannot wait to build off the last performance, where I stopped Brandon Gallardo Vargas in round two back in December, and show what I can do.”
Plus, amateur junior welterweight standout – and 2025 Haringey Box Cup winner – Louie Ward makes his entry to the professional code, under the expert guidance of trainer Tony Sims.
Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said: “George Liddard was destructive against Kieron Conway last October and he’ll need to be back at his best against a game, and experienced, Tyler Denny. I’m looking forward to seeing a host of our exciting young guns on the undercard too. The Copper Box will be absolutely rocking for what will be a cracking fight night live on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.”
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March 21st: Liddard to defend British title vs. Denny
George Liddard will defend his British & Commonwealth middleweight titles for the first time against Tyler Denny at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday, March 21st, live on DAZN. Liddard was crowned champion last October, just down the road at the East End’s fabled York Hall, when he stopped Kieron Conway in the tenth round. Now the 23-year old, whose sights are firmly set on becoming a future world Champion, is ready to overcome another stern test in what promises to be a sold out arena in Stratford when he comes up against the former European middleweight ruler in Denny.
“I’m really looking forward to March 21 at the Copper Box,” said Liddard. “To be headlining at such a big arena is great and I will put on a performance worthy of it. Tyler is a vastly experienced opponent so I cannot take him or anything lightly going into this. He’s a former European Champion, so when I win this fight it will stand me in good stead to fight for that title next. Let’s get it!”
Midlands man Denny, meanwhile, is confident his experience will help him prevail in the capital. “I’m buzzing to be fighting for the British and Commonwealth Titles and would like to thank Matchroom Boxing for the opportunity,” said Denny, who bounced back last year with two wins over Grant Dennis and Elvis Ahorgah after suffering defeat by Hamzah Sheeraz at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. I’m expecting a tough fight, as I have a lot of respect for George as a fighter. But I will be taking the belts back home with me.”
Giorgio Visioli has been making plenty of noise Stateside after his gym run-in with fellow top prospect Curmel Moton recently. But he returns to the capital on March 21st to make the first defense of his English lightweight title against a seasoned campaigner in Levi Giles. Visioli is earmarked for a bright future after he unanimously overcame Joe Howarth when he headlined at the Indigo at The O2 last December – and he’s eager to kick on for the year ahead. “I’m looking forward to being out again in London defending my English title,” said Visioli. “Levi Giles is a good opponent for me. He’s been in with some well-known English names and he’s got a good record but on fight night I’m going to show exactly where I stand in this division. There are levels to this, and they’ll be shown on March 21st.”
Jimmy Sains is another youngster who is determined to push ahead in 2026 as he looks forward to facing Derrick Osaze. The ‘Brentwood Beterbiev’ is a stablemate of Liddard’s at Tony Sims’ Matchroom Elite Gym in Essex, and he is excited to be kicking off his campaign for the year in east London. “It’s a great card and I am looking forward to a step-up in opponent which gives me the perfect opportunity to show more of my boxing ability and show what level I’m at – and where I’m eventually destined to be.”
Now undefeated in seven fights, with all seven by way of knockout, super middleweight Taylor Bevan will bring his legion of fans from the South Coast – along with local lad, and exciting middleweight, Leli Buttigieg who will have his East End faithful in attendance.
Connor Mitchell – managed by Conor Benn – delivered a strong debut when the 21 year-old featherweight staged a two-round demolition of Fernando Joaquin Valdez just before last Christmas. And Mitchell is hungry to continue his early momentum on March 21, on the doorstep of his beloved West Ham United Football Club. “It’s my second professional bout and the first fight of 2026, in what should be a big year ahead,” said Mitchell. “I’m looking forward to being on another exciting Matchroom Boxing card, live on DAZN, with a host of other great fighters. I can’t wait to pick up from where I left off. Let’s go!”
In the same weight class, the energetic Adam Maca is back for his fifth contest – with all four so far resulting in stoppage wins. A focused Maca said: “This is my first one of 2026. I cannot wait to build off the last performance, where I stopped Brandon Gallardo Vargas in round two back in December, and show what I can do.”
Plus, amateur junior welterweight standout – and 2025 Haringey Box Cup winner – Louie Ward makes his entry to the professional code, under the expert guidance of trainer Tony Sims.
Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said: “George Liddard was destructive against Kieron Conway last October and he’ll need to be back at his best against a game, and experienced, Tyler Denny. I’m looking forward to seeing a host of our exciting young guns on the undercard too. The Copper Box will be absolutely rocking for what will be a cracking fight night live on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.”
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Reynoso improves to 12-0 in Rhode Island |
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Victor Reynoso W6 Ray Oliveira Jr. ... At the CES Boxing show in Rhode Island, junior middleweight Victor "TAKO" Reynoso extended his perfect record to 12-0 with 7 KOs thanks to a composed six-round unanimous decision over Ray "Prince" Oliveira Jr. (10-5, 2 KOs). The official scores were 60-54 (twice) and 59-55 for the Dominican-born Reynoso. The 32 year-old Reynoso grew up watching Oliveira Jr. compete as an amateur and now found himself across the ring from the same fighter he once studied from the stands. With Oliveira's famous father, Ray Sr., serving as head trainer in his corner, New Bedford, MA’s Ray Jr. started fast, rushing out of his corner at the opening bell to pressure Reynoso behind a high guard. While Reynoso is not one to shy away from a brawl, he promised a disciplined performance beforehand and delivered exactly that.
After feeling Oliveira out in the first, Reynoso began asserting himself with a stiff jab in round two, using his height and reach advantages to create distance and counter effectively with his right hand.
Victor mixed sharp combinations upstairs with thudding hooks to the body in rounds two and three, gradually slowing down Oliveira Jr., who tried repeatedly to pressure his way inside.
Reynoso often beat Ray to the punch, countered cleanly over the top, and never allowed the bout to devolve into a slugfest.
By rounds four and five, Reynoso’s body work had Oliveira backing toward the ropes, and a fourth-round sequence saw Oliveira absorb several heavy shots. Oliveira weathered the storm and continued his march forward whenever Reynoso slowed his pace. Reynoso, however, stayed composed, circling out of danger, and closing strong to earn the unanimous decision. "He knew that the only way he could beat me was to go toe-to-toe, and I wasn’t going to give him that opportunity," said Reynoso immediately after the bout. "I used my jab intelligently and slowed him down to the body so that I could walk him into something up top."
The win sets up a number of possibilities for Reynoso, who is determined to stay active in 2026. "Let CES set them up, and I’ll knock them down," said Reynoso. "I want to fight three more times this year. The more active I am, the better."
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Douglas "El Uno" Marroquin (9-0, 5 KOs) overcame a cut over his right eye to win a competitive majority decision over German Rufus Macauley (4-1, 3 KOs) in a collision of undefeated middleweights. Scores were 58-56 (twice) for Marroquin and 57-57. The bout was a clash of styles, with the stocky, 5’6 Marroquin doing his best work inside and to the body while the 6’0 southpaw Macauley created distance with his wide stance and relied on his long left hand. The half-Guatemalan, half-Mexican Marroquin started strong, snapping a stiff jab and working inside with furious body shots.
A clash of heads in round four cut Marroquin’s right eye, allowing Macauley to find his rhythm. The 28-year-old Berliner showed that he did not fly across the Atlantic just for a paycheck, increasing the pressure in the middle rounds as Marroquin attempted to slow the pace.
Macauley’s late surge made the final rounds tense, but Marroquin’s early work and cleaner counters proved enough to secure the victory. For the Marroquin, who trains in Norfolk under former pro boxer Wilner Mendez, this was less about flash and more about resilience.
"I have grit, I showed heart, and I went up against an undefeated fighter tonight who wouldn’t back down," said the 27-year-old. "I’m going to continue to entertain the fans who spend their hard-earned money to support us."
When Ayowole Tom Jones (1-0-1) and Jhony Dos Santos first met last July at Mohegan Sun Arena, they delivered four rounds of non-stop action that ended in a draw. Saturday’s rematch picked up right where they left off. Jones struck first, dropping Dos Santos with a right uppercut in round one. Dos Santos responded in round two, flooring the 6’2 Jones with a series of head shots. Controversy followed in round three when referee Eddie Claudio ruled what appeared to be a low blow a knockdown scored by Jones – a call that may have been the difference as both men emptied their tanks in the fourth and final round. The judges scored it 37-37 and 37-36 (twice) for Jones, giving him the first win of his professional career via majority decision.
Rhode Island’s own Tyler "My Time" Macari (3-0, 3 KOs) gave his hometown crowd exactly what they braved the cold to see: a quick, emphatic knockout. The 26-year old dropped late replacement Elijah Hasman with a massive left hook midway through the opening round, then poured on body shots until referee Joey Lupino mercifully stepped in at 2:51. It was Macari’s third straight first-round knockout, and another reminder of why the former college basketball standout is becoming one of Rhode Island’s most exciting young boxers.
Locally based Dominican welterweight Kevin Mojica (4-0, 4 KOs) kept his perfect record intact, stopping Mexico’s Ismael Rodriguez with a left hook to the liver. The time was 1:02 of the first stanza.
New Bedford super bantamweight Josh Alvarado (4-1, 2 KOs) made it four straight wins after losing his pro debut, annihilating Michigan’s Michael Thornton with a right hand to the head at 2:12 of the first round. Thornton beat the count but was unwilling to continue after feeling Alvarado’s superior firepower.
In the opening bout of the night, Fall River’s Roberto Colon (1-1) kicked things off in style, dropping Puerto Rico's hapless John Medina (0-5) four times en route to his first professional victory. The stoppage came at 0:22 of round two. This was the first time in five bouts that Medina made it out of the first round.
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Reynoso improves to 12-0 in Rhode Island
Victor Reynoso W6 Ray Oliveira Jr. ... At the CES Boxing show in Rhode Island, junior middleweight Victor "TAKO" Reynoso extended his perfect record to 12-0 with 7 KOs thanks to a composed six-round unanimous decision over Ray "Prince" Oliveira Jr. (10-5, 2 KOs). The official scores were 60-54 (twice) and 59-55 for the Dominican-born Reynoso. The 32 year-old Reynoso grew up watching Oliveira Jr. compete as an amateur and now found himself across the ring from the same fighter he once studied from the stands. With Oliveira's famous father, Ray Sr., serving as head trainer in his corner, New Bedford, MA’s Ray Jr. started fast, rushing out of his corner at the opening bell to pressure Reynoso behind a high guard. While Reynoso is not one to shy away from a brawl, he promised a disciplined performance beforehand and delivered exactly that.
After feeling Oliveira out in the first, Reynoso began asserting himself with a stiff jab in round two, using his height and reach advantages to create distance and counter effectively with his right hand.
Victor mixed sharp combinations upstairs with thudding hooks to the body in rounds two and three, gradually slowing down Oliveira Jr., who tried repeatedly to pressure his way inside.
Reynoso often beat Ray to the punch, countered cleanly over the top, and never allowed the bout to devolve into a slugfest.
By rounds four and five, Reynoso’s body work had Oliveira backing toward the ropes, and a fourth-round sequence saw Oliveira absorb several heavy shots. Oliveira weathered the storm and continued his march forward whenever Reynoso slowed his pace. Reynoso, however, stayed composed, circling out of danger, and closing strong to earn the unanimous decision. "He knew that the only way he could beat me was to go toe-to-toe, and I wasn’t going to give him that opportunity," said Reynoso immediately after the bout. "I used my jab intelligently and slowed him down to the body so that I could walk him into something up top."
The win sets up a number of possibilities for Reynoso, who is determined to stay active in 2026. "Let CES set them up, and I’ll knock them down," said Reynoso. "I want to fight three more times this year. The more active I am, the better."
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Douglas "El Uno" Marroquin (9-0, 5 KOs) overcame a cut over his right eye to win a competitive majority decision over German Rufus Macauley (4-1, 3 KOs) in a collision of undefeated middleweights. Scores were 58-56 (twice) for Marroquin and 57-57. The bout was a clash of styles, with the stocky, 5’6 Marroquin doing his best work inside and to the body while the 6’0 southpaw Macauley created distance with his wide stance and relied on his long left hand. The half-Guatemalan, half-Mexican Marroquin started strong, snapping a stiff jab and working inside with furious body shots.
A clash of heads in round four cut Marroquin’s right eye, allowing Macauley to find his rhythm. The 28-year-old Berliner showed that he did not fly across the Atlantic just for a paycheck, increasing the pressure in the middle rounds as Marroquin attempted to slow the pace.
Macauley’s late surge made the final rounds tense, but Marroquin’s early work and cleaner counters proved enough to secure the victory. For the Marroquin, who trains in Norfolk under former pro boxer Wilner Mendez, this was less about flash and more about resilience.
"I have grit, I showed heart, and I went up against an undefeated fighter tonight who wouldn’t back down," said the 27-year-old. "I’m going to continue to entertain the fans who spend their hard-earned money to support us."
When Ayowole Tom Jones (1-0-1) and Jhony Dos Santos first met last July at Mohegan Sun Arena, they delivered four rounds of non-stop action that ended in a draw. Saturday’s rematch picked up right where they left off. Jones struck first, dropping Dos Santos with a right uppercut in round one. Dos Santos responded in round two, flooring the 6’2 Jones with a series of head shots. Controversy followed in round three when referee Eddie Claudio ruled what appeared to be a low blow a knockdown scored by Jones – a call that may have been the difference as both men emptied their tanks in the fourth and final round. The judges scored it 37-37 and 37-36 (twice) for Jones, giving him the first win of his professional career via majority decision.
Rhode Island’s own Tyler "My Time" Macari (3-0, 3 KOs) gave his hometown crowd exactly what they braved the cold to see: a quick, emphatic knockout. The 26-year old dropped late replacement Elijah Hasman with a massive left hook midway through the opening round, then poured on body shots until referee Joey Lupino mercifully stepped in at 2:51. It was Macari’s third straight first-round knockout, and another reminder of why the former college basketball standout is becoming one of Rhode Island’s most exciting young boxers.
Locally based Dominican welterweight Kevin Mojica (4-0, 4 KOs) kept his perfect record intact, stopping Mexico’s Ismael Rodriguez with a left hook to the liver. The time was 1:02 of the first stanza.
New Bedford super bantamweight Josh Alvarado (4-1, 2 KOs) made it four straight wins after losing his pro debut, annihilating Michigan’s Michael Thornton with a right hand to the head at 2:12 of the first round. Thornton beat the count but was unwilling to continue after feeling Alvarado’s superior firepower.
In the opening bout of the night, Fall River’s Roberto Colon (1-1) kicked things off in style, dropping Puerto Rico's hapless John Medina (0-5) four times en route to his first professional victory. The stoppage came at 0:22 of round two. This was the first time in five bouts that Medina made it out of the first round.
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Friday night boxing comes to Fall River, MA |
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New York junior welterweightTerell Bostic (17-3, 3 KO’s) will be making his third appearance in a Boston Boxing Promotions ring on Friday February 13th at Bernardo’s Event Center in Fall River, Massachusetts as he takes on Rhode Island’s Juan Carlos Pena (32-16-1, 23 KO’s) in an eight rounder. Bostic was last seen on Thanksgiving Eve opening the show with an entertaining eight-round decision victory over Aldimar Silva... On the same show, Venezuelan junior middleweight Jocksan Blanco (9-0) squares off against Daijohn González (14-8). Blanco has shown a notable finishing instinct, building his success around punishing body work and relentless pressure that gradually suffocates his opponents. González, meanwhile, represents the sternest technical test of Blanco’s young career. The Florida native brings a refined boxing pedigree, defined by a sharp, educated jab and footwork that allows him to control the tempo from long range. Tickets are available now at www.BostonBoxingPromotions.com.
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Friday night boxing comes to Fall River, MA
New York junior welterweightTerell Bostic (17-3, 3 KO’s) will be making his third appearance in a Boston Boxing Promotions ring on Friday February 13th at Bernardo’s Event Center in Fall River, Massachusetts as he takes on Rhode Island’s Juan Carlos Pena (32-16-1, 23 KO’s) in an eight rounder. Bostic was last seen on Thanksgiving Eve opening the show with an entertaining eight-round decision victory over Aldimar Silva... On the same show, Venezuelan junior middleweight Jocksan Blanco (9-0) squares off against Daijohn González (14-8). Blanco has shown a notable finishing instinct, building his success around punishing body work and relentless pressure that gradually suffocates his opponents. González, meanwhile, represents the sternest technical test of Blanco’s young career. The Florida native brings a refined boxing pedigree, defined by a sharp, educated jab and footwork that allows him to control the tempo from long range. Tickets are available now at www.BostonBoxingPromotions.com.
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BKFC planning eight-man, one-night tourney |
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On Saturday’s broadcast, BKFC president David Feldman unveiled the organization’s schedule for April, beginning with the inaugural Bare Knuckle Fight Club event on April 7th in Philadelphia. Hailed by Feldman as “the most viral series we’ve ever produced,” the eight-man, one-night tournament winners will be awarded $100,000 BKFC contracts. BKFC’s April schedule also includes events in Honolulu (April 11th), Denver (April 17th), Australia (April 18th) and Clearwater, FL (April 24). Here are some highlights from Feldman’s post-event press conference on Saturday: “18,217 people in the house tonight. We started this thing about a half a mile away in a warehouse with one fight and four people. Tonight we did 18,217. Thank you to the fighters and the fans. I also want to thank my team and thank my family and everyone that helped us get here.” Another great night here in Philadelphia. Some of the fights didn’t live up to expectations and some of them overdelivered.
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BKFC planning eight-man, one-night tourney
On Saturday’s broadcast, BKFC president David Feldman unveiled the organization’s schedule for April, beginning with the inaugural Bare Knuckle Fight Club event on April 7th in Philadelphia. Hailed by Feldman as “the most viral series we’ve ever produced,” the eight-man, one-night tournament winners will be awarded $100,000 BKFC contracts. BKFC’s April schedule also includes events in Honolulu (April 11th), Denver (April 17th), Australia (April 18th) and Clearwater, FL (April 24). Here are some highlights from Feldman’s post-event press conference on Saturday: “18,217 people in the house tonight. We started this thing about a half a mile away in a warehouse with one fight and four people. Tonight we did 18,217. Thank you to the fighters and the fans. I also want to thank my team and thank my family and everyone that helped us get here.” Another great night here in Philadelphia. Some of the fights didn’t live up to expectations and some of them overdelivered.
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Jake Paul angers Puerto Ricans by falsely calling Bad Bunny a "fake American" |
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Cruiserweight and boxing promoter Jake Paul took a big social media misstep today, calling Puerto Rican music superstar Bad Bunny a "fake American" just before Bad Bunny was set to perform at the Super Bowl. Paul lives in Puerto Rico and the most popular boxer on his promotional roster is another beloved Puerto Rican, multi-division champion Amanda Serrano. NOTE: Puerto Ricans are American citizens. Here is what Paul tweeted: "Purposefully turning off the [Super Bowl] halftime show. Let’s rally together and show big corporations they can’t just do whatever they want without consequences (which equals viewership for them). You are their benefit. Realize you have power. Turn off this halftime. A fake American citizen performing who publicly hates America. I cannot support that."
Amanda Serrano responded: "Tonight I am here where I’m supposed to be in my beautiful Island with my people celebrating and watching with awe how well Benito [Bad Bunny] represented us and our culture. I am proud to be Puerto Rican, and I am proud to be an American citizen. Puerto Ricans are not 'fake Americans.' We are citizens who have contributed to this country in every field, from military service to sports, business, science, and the arts, and our identity and citizenship deserve respect. I would not have the opportunities I have today without the support and belief that Most Valuable Promotions and Jake Paul showed in me, and I will always be grateful for the role they have played in helping change my life and in elevating women’s boxing. At the same time, I want to be clear: I do not agree with statements that question the legitimacy or identity of Puerto Rican people, and I cannot support that characterization. It is wrong. I fight with the pride of Puerto Rico and represent my flag every time I step into the ring. I will always stand with my people, with respect for who we are, and with pride in where we come from. I will never change and will forever be a Proud Boricua."
Even Jake's own brother, Logan Paul, took exception: "I love my brother but I don’t agree with this. Puerto Ricans are Americans & I’m happy they were given the opportunity to showcase the talent that comes from the island."
Women's heavyweight champion Claressa Shields: "Please Jake, not today. Puerto Ricans are not fake citizens. You would think that you of all people would support this as you have so many Puerto Rican women under your umbrella. What’s happening with ICE is terrible and we shouldn’t want to see harm done to anyone who is apart of America & a minority! Do better Jake. This isn’t right."
On Monday morning, Jake Paul tried to walk back the damage, tweeting, "To clarify: I wasn’t calling anyone a 'fake citizen' because they’re from Puerto Rico. I live in Puerto Rico, and I love Puerto Rico. I have used my platform to support Puerto Rico time and time again and will always do so. But if you’re publicly criticizing ICE who are doing their job and openly hating on America, I’m going to speak on it. Period. That’s the same reason I called out [Olympick skiier] Hunter Hess. If you benefit from a country and the platform it gives you, but publicly disrespect it at the same time, that’s what I mean by being a fake citizen. And I agree love is more powerful than hate. Love America."
MVP posted this on Monday: "MVP stands for one thing and one thing only: our fighters. Whether you’re from Puerto Rico or anywhere else in the world, we proudly stand behind you and will always work to elevate you and the pride you bring into the ring."
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Jake Paul angers Puerto Ricans by falsely calling Bad Bunny a "fake American"
Cruiserweight and boxing promoter Jake Paul took a big social media misstep today, calling Puerto Rican music superstar Bad Bunny a "fake American" just before Bad Bunny was set to perform at the Super Bowl. Paul lives in Puerto Rico and the most popular boxer on his promotional roster is another beloved Puerto Rican, multi-division champion Amanda Serrano. NOTE: Puerto Ricans are American citizens. Here is what Paul tweeted: "Purposefully turning off the [Super Bowl] halftime show. Let’s rally together and show big corporations they can’t just do whatever they want without consequences (which equals viewership for them). You are their benefit. Realize you have power. Turn off this halftime. A fake American citizen performing who publicly hates America. I cannot support that."
Amanda Serrano responded: "Tonight I am here where I’m supposed to be in my beautiful Island with my people celebrating and watching with awe how well Benito [Bad Bunny] represented us and our culture. I am proud to be Puerto Rican, and I am proud to be an American citizen. Puerto Ricans are not 'fake Americans.' We are citizens who have contributed to this country in every field, from military service to sports, business, science, and the arts, and our identity and citizenship deserve respect. I would not have the opportunities I have today without the support and belief that Most Valuable Promotions and Jake Paul showed in me, and I will always be grateful for the role they have played in helping change my life and in elevating women’s boxing. At the same time, I want to be clear: I do not agree with statements that question the legitimacy or identity of Puerto Rican people, and I cannot support that characterization. It is wrong. I fight with the pride of Puerto Rico and represent my flag every time I step into the ring. I will always stand with my people, with respect for who we are, and with pride in where we come from. I will never change and will forever be a Proud Boricua."
Even Jake's own brother, Logan Paul, took exception: "I love my brother but I don’t agree with this. Puerto Ricans are Americans & I’m happy they were given the opportunity to showcase the talent that comes from the island."
Women's heavyweight champion Claressa Shields: "Please Jake, not today. Puerto Ricans are not fake citizens. You would think that you of all people would support this as you have so many Puerto Rican women under your umbrella. What’s happening with ICE is terrible and we shouldn’t want to see harm done to anyone who is apart of America & a minority! Do better Jake. This isn’t right."
On Monday morning, Jake Paul tried to walk back the damage, tweeting, "To clarify: I wasn’t calling anyone a 'fake citizen' because they’re from Puerto Rico. I live in Puerto Rico, and I love Puerto Rico. I have used my platform to support Puerto Rico time and time again and will always do so. But if you’re publicly criticizing ICE who are doing their job and openly hating on America, I’m going to speak on it. Period. That’s the same reason I called out [Olympick skiier] Hunter Hess. If you benefit from a country and the platform it gives you, but publicly disrespect it at the same time, that’s what I mean by being a fake citizen. And I agree love is more powerful than hate. Love America."
MVP posted this on Monday: "MVP stands for one thing and one thing only: our fighters. Whether you’re from Puerto Rico or anywhere else in the world, we proudly stand behind you and will always work to elevate you and the pride you bring into the ring."
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Harper: "Dubois' trash talk means nothing" |
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Caroline Dubois faced off with Terri Harper (pictured) ahead of their lightweight championship clash, while Catford's Ellie Scotney looks to make British boxing history; watch the Dubois vs Harper and Scotney vs Flores bill live on Sky Sports on Sunday April 5th. Dubois took her opportunity to get close and personal with Harper at the press conference to announce their April 5th show, which will be broadcast by Sky Sports. The two Britons both hold lightweight world championships, Dubois the WBC version and Harper the WBO. They will box to unify the two belts at Kensington's Olympia. Their rivalry, though, is becoming increasingly personal, with Dubois heaping "disrespect" on Harper's accomplishments, as the three-division champion sees it. For example, Dubois repeated her claim that she considers Harper "irrelevant" and says victory on April 5th will just be the start of her boxing legacy
The normally softly-spoken Harper declared: "This fight isn't about the belts. For me I just want to fight Caroline. That will be the sweetest victory of my career. She's massively overlooking me and thinks it's going to be an easy night."
Dubois interrupted Harper through the press conference and continued to speak to her as they faced off afterwards. Harper, the taller fighter, glared down at Dubois but then turned away and Dubois stepped into her space to pose for the cameras. "I know I'm going to get past this fight. I believe I'm going to smash her up," Dubois said ominously. "I can't wait. This is the start of my future, of my legacy, of my greatness and I'm going all the way. I called her irrelevant because I believe she is. My legacy starts with becoming undisputed in the lightweight division. Unfortunately for Terri she's the one holding the belt."
Harper remains a proud champion and the jibes from her opponent have motivated her further. "For me it's the disrespect from Caroline," the WBO titlist said. "She's doing a great job at selling the fight, she's doing my job for me. I'm just being my authentic self. All this means nothing-- it's what happens on the night."
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Harper: "Dubois' trash talk means nothing"
Caroline Dubois faced off with Terri Harper (pictured) ahead of their lightweight championship clash, while Catford's Ellie Scotney looks to make British boxing history; watch the Dubois vs Harper and Scotney vs Flores bill live on Sky Sports on Sunday April 5th. Dubois took her opportunity to get close and personal with Harper at the press conference to announce their April 5th show, which will be broadcast by Sky Sports. The two Britons both hold lightweight world championships, Dubois the WBC version and Harper the WBO. They will box to unify the two belts at Kensington's Olympia. Their rivalry, though, is becoming increasingly personal, with Dubois heaping "disrespect" on Harper's accomplishments, as the three-division champion sees it. For example, Dubois repeated her claim that she considers Harper "irrelevant" and says victory on April 5th will just be the start of her boxing legacy
The normally softly-spoken Harper declared: "This fight isn't about the belts. For me I just want to fight Caroline. That will be the sweetest victory of my career. She's massively overlooking me and thinks it's going to be an easy night."
Dubois interrupted Harper through the press conference and continued to speak to her as they faced off afterwards. Harper, the taller fighter, glared down at Dubois but then turned away and Dubois stepped into her space to pose for the cameras. "I know I'm going to get past this fight. I believe I'm going to smash her up," Dubois said ominously. "I can't wait. This is the start of my future, of my legacy, of my greatness and I'm going all the way. I called her irrelevant because I believe she is. My legacy starts with becoming undisputed in the lightweight division. Unfortunately for Terri she's the one holding the belt."
Harper remains a proud champion and the jibes from her opponent have motivated her further. "For me it's the disrespect from Caroline," the WBO titlist said. "She's doing a great job at selling the fight, she's doing my job for me. I'm just being my authentic self. All this means nothing-- it's what happens on the night."
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Arlovski wins BKFC title at age 47 |
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In a battle of fomrer mixed martial arts rivals, 47 year-old Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski dethroned BKFC heavyweight champion “Big” Ben Rothwell at KnuckleMania VI on Saturday at the sold-out Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. The ringside doctor called a stop to the contest at 1:14 in the third round. The Belarus-born, Florida resdident product upped his BKFC record to 2-0 with the win. The former UFC heavyweight champion Arlovski also holds two MMA victories over Rothwell. Arlovski was asked in his post-fight interview if he’d like to defend his new championship against undefeated Cuban Leonardo “El Zambo” Perdomo: “I love what I do. Thank you very much to my family for letting me fight. So, like Nike — ‘just do it.’ ”
BKFC light heavyweight champion Lorenzo “The Juggernaut” Hunt solidified his status as the best bare knuckle fighter on the planet by stopping BKFC middleweight champion David “The Redneck” Mundell on Saturday. Mundell entered fight night as the #1 fighter on the BKFC pound-for-pound Rankings, and Hunt held the #2 spot. Hunt dropped Mundell twice before the KO stoppage 29 seconds into the fourth round. Hunt, who represents Jacksonville, FL, upped his bare knuckle fighting record to 13-2 with the win, while the Oldsmar, FL product Mundell fell to 10-2 in defeat, thereby snapping his eight-fight winning streak. Hunt took aim at “Platinum” Mike Perry in his post-fight interview: “I am the true King of Violence!”
Undefeated Philadelphia middleweight John “Johnny Cannolli” Garbarino dropped Kaine “Kaine 9” Tomlinson Jr. seven times to up his record to 4-0 with a fourth straight stoppage victory. The one-sided contest was called to a stop 49 seconds into the fifth round. Tomlinson Jr., a product of Roanoke, VA, is now 2-3 under the BKFC banner.
Former BKFC interim lightweight title holder Ben “The Bomber” Bonner earned another BKFC title opportunity with a unanimous decision victory over Tony “Loco” Soto. Two judges scored the title-eliminator fight 49-46 and one scored the contest 48-47, all in favor of the UK product. Bonner is now 5-2 heading into his earned matchup with former BKFC welterweight champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout for the vacant BKFC lightweight championship at a to-be-announced date.
Led to the ring by celebrated comedian/actor Shane Gillis, Philadelphia’s Patrick “The Brick” Brady upped his BKFC record to 3-0 with a hard-fought, unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Bear “The Last Barbarian” Hill in heavyweight action. Brady sent Hill to the canvas three times. He is now 3-0 after all three judges called him the winner of Saturday’s contest (50-42, 49-41, 49-43). Hill, who hails from Ardmore, AL, is now 2-1. Brady announced his retirement in his emotional post-fight interview: “I have a family at home. I have three boys and a daughter, and they need their father. Philadelphia, it's been great. I love you all, but this is the last time you’ll see me fight.”
Knockouts of the Night: Lorenzo Hunt and Cody Russell / Fight of the Night: Pat Brady def. Bear Hill
Jade “Evil Smile” Masson-Wong defeated Crystal “The Rugged Beauty” Pittman. All three judges scored the fight 50-45 for the Quebec City-born Masson-Wong, who is now 4-2 in her BKFC career. Pittman, who hails from Sarasota, FL, is now 3-4, 1 NC under the BKFC banner.
Former BKFC light heavyweight champion Mike “The Marine” Richman edged out Joe “Hitman 187” Elmore for a majority decision victory in their welterweight battle. Two out of the three judges called the Minneapolis fighter Richman the winner (48-46, 49-45) and one judge scored the back-and-forth contest a draw (47-47). Richman logged the sole knockdown of the fight. Richman is now 7-3 in his BKFC career, while the Atlanta fighter Elmore is now 2-5.
Columbus, GA’s “Felony” Charles Bennett floored Pat “The Irishman” Sullivan twice en route to the second-round TKO stoppage in their featherweight matchup. The finish came with just four seconds left in the second frame. Bennett is now 1-3 in BKFC's squared circle. Sullivan, a product of South Philadelphia, is now 1-2.
Led by coach and combat sports legend Eddie “The Underground King” Alvarez, Westchester, PA’s Cody “Chaos” Russell cruised to 2-0 in his BKFC career with a TKO over Harrison “The Headhunter” Aiken in middleweight action. Time of the TKO stoppage was 1:16 of the second round and followed three knockdowns by the hands of Russell. Both of Russell’s wins have come by stoppage. Aiken, who hails from Atlanta, is now 3-5 in his bare knuckle career.
Philadelphia lightweight “King” Zedekiah Montanez avenged a loss to Brandon “Beastmode” Meyer with a second-round KO victory on Saturday. Montanez scored three knockdowns to the finish with just one second left in the second round. Montanez is now 1-1 in his BKFC career, while the Omaha, NE product Meyer is now 3-4.
Levittown, PA cruiserweight Lex “The Grizzly Bear” Ludlow upped his BKFC record to 3-0 with a unanimous decision over Zack “Shark Attack” Calmus. All three judges scored the fight 30-26. Calmus, a product of Gloucester, MA, is now 5-5 under the BKFC banner.
BKFC Golden Ticket winner Prince Nyseam was victorious in his BKFC premiere, sending Brett “Showtime” Shoenfelt to the canvas twice en route to a unanimous decision in their middleweight matchup. All three judges agreed on the 30-25 verdict in favor of the debuting Camden, NJ product Nyseam. Shoenfelt, who represents Holidayburg, PA, was also making his bare knuckle fighting debut.
Pembroke, NC’s Joshua “The Preacherman” Oxendine shined in his BKFC debut, earning a unanimous decision victory over his highly experienced opponent, Travis “The Animal” Thompson, in the opening bout of the night. All three judges agreed on the 30-27 verdict. Thompson, who hails from Pottstown, PA, is now 6-8 under the BKFC banner.
KnuckleMania VI Results
Andrei Arlovski def. (C) Ben Rothwell via TKO in Round 3 (1:14) -- Arlovski Wins BKFC World Heavyweight Title
Lorenzo Hunt def. David Mundell via KO in Round 4 (0:29)
John Garbarino def. Kaine Tomlinson Jr. via TKO in Round 5 (0:49)
Ben Bonner def. Tony Soto via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 48-47)
Patrick Brady def. Bear Hill via Unanimous Decision (50-42, 49-41, 49-43)
Jade Masson-Wong def. Crystal Pittman via Unanimous Decision (50-45x3)
Mike Richman def. Joe Elmore via Majority Decision (48-46, 49-45, 47-47)
Charles Bennett def. Pat Sullivan via TKO in Round 2 (1:56)
Cody Russell def. Harrison Aiken via TKO in Round 2 (1:16)
Zedekiah Montanez def. Brandon Meyer via KO in Round 2 (1:59)
Lex Ludlow def. Zach Calmus via Unanimous Decision (30-26x3)
Prince Nyseam def. Brett Shoenfelt via Unanimous Decision (30-25x3)
Joshua Oxendine def. Travis Thompson via Unanimous Decision (30-27x3)
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Arlovski wins BKFC title at age 47
In a battle of fomrer mixed martial arts rivals, 47 year-old Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski dethroned BKFC heavyweight champion “Big” Ben Rothwell at KnuckleMania VI on Saturday at the sold-out Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. The ringside doctor called a stop to the contest at 1:14 in the third round. The Belarus-born, Florida resdident product upped his BKFC record to 2-0 with the win. The former UFC heavyweight champion Arlovski also holds two MMA victories over Rothwell. Arlovski was asked in his post-fight interview if he’d like to defend his new championship against undefeated Cuban Leonardo “El Zambo” Perdomo: “I love what I do. Thank you very much to my family for letting me fight. So, like Nike — ‘just do it.’ ”
BKFC light heavyweight champion Lorenzo “The Juggernaut” Hunt solidified his status as the best bare knuckle fighter on the planet by stopping BKFC middleweight champion David “The Redneck” Mundell on Saturday. Mundell entered fight night as the #1 fighter on the BKFC pound-for-pound Rankings, and Hunt held the #2 spot. Hunt dropped Mundell twice before the KO stoppage 29 seconds into the fourth round. Hunt, who represents Jacksonville, FL, upped his bare knuckle fighting record to 13-2 with the win, while the Oldsmar, FL product Mundell fell to 10-2 in defeat, thereby snapping his eight-fight winning streak. Hunt took aim at “Platinum” Mike Perry in his post-fight interview: “I am the true King of Violence!”
Undefeated Philadelphia middleweight John “Johnny Cannolli” Garbarino dropped Kaine “Kaine 9” Tomlinson Jr. seven times to up his record to 4-0 with a fourth straight stoppage victory. The one-sided contest was called to a stop 49 seconds into the fifth round. Tomlinson Jr., a product of Roanoke, VA, is now 2-3 under the BKFC banner.
Former BKFC interim lightweight title holder Ben “The Bomber” Bonner earned another BKFC title opportunity with a unanimous decision victory over Tony “Loco” Soto. Two judges scored the title-eliminator fight 49-46 and one scored the contest 48-47, all in favor of the UK product. Bonner is now 5-2 heading into his earned matchup with former BKFC welterweight champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout for the vacant BKFC lightweight championship at a to-be-announced date.
Led to the ring by celebrated comedian/actor Shane Gillis, Philadelphia’s Patrick “The Brick” Brady upped his BKFC record to 3-0 with a hard-fought, unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Bear “The Last Barbarian” Hill in heavyweight action. Brady sent Hill to the canvas three times. He is now 3-0 after all three judges called him the winner of Saturday’s contest (50-42, 49-41, 49-43). Hill, who hails from Ardmore, AL, is now 2-1. Brady announced his retirement in his emotional post-fight interview: “I have a family at home. I have three boys and a daughter, and they need their father. Philadelphia, it's been great. I love you all, but this is the last time you’ll see me fight.”
Knockouts of the Night: Lorenzo Hunt and Cody Russell / Fight of the Night: Pat Brady def. Bear Hill
Jade “Evil Smile” Masson-Wong defeated Crystal “The Rugged Beauty” Pittman. All three judges scored the fight 50-45 for the Quebec City-born Masson-Wong, who is now 4-2 in her BKFC career. Pittman, who hails from Sarasota, FL, is now 3-4, 1 NC under the BKFC banner.
Former BKFC light heavyweight champion Mike “The Marine” Richman edged out Joe “Hitman 187” Elmore for a majority decision victory in their welterweight battle. Two out of the three judges called the Minneapolis fighter Richman the winner (48-46, 49-45) and one judge scored the back-and-forth contest a draw (47-47). Richman logged the sole knockdown of the fight. Richman is now 7-3 in his BKFC career, while the Atlanta fighter Elmore is now 2-5.
Columbus, GA’s “Felony” Charles Bennett floored Pat “The Irishman” Sullivan twice en route to the second-round TKO stoppage in their featherweight matchup. The finish came with just four seconds left in the second frame. Bennett is now 1-3 in BKFC's squared circle. Sullivan, a product of South Philadelphia, is now 1-2.
Led by coach and combat sports legend Eddie “The Underground King” Alvarez, Westchester, PA’s Cody “Chaos” Russell cruised to 2-0 in his BKFC career with a TKO over Harrison “The Headhunter” Aiken in middleweight action. Time of the TKO stoppage was 1:16 of the second round and followed three knockdowns by the hands of Russell. Both of Russell’s wins have come by stoppage. Aiken, who hails from Atlanta, is now 3-5 in his bare knuckle career.
Philadelphia lightweight “King” Zedekiah Montanez avenged a loss to Brandon “Beastmode” Meyer with a second-round KO victory on Saturday. Montanez scored three knockdowns to the finish with just one second left in the second round. Montanez is now 1-1 in his BKFC career, while the Omaha, NE product Meyer is now 3-4.
Levittown, PA cruiserweight Lex “The Grizzly Bear” Ludlow upped his BKFC record to 3-0 with a unanimous decision over Zack “Shark Attack” Calmus. All three judges scored the fight 30-26. Calmus, a product of Gloucester, MA, is now 5-5 under the BKFC banner.
BKFC Golden Ticket winner Prince Nyseam was victorious in his BKFC premiere, sending Brett “Showtime” Shoenfelt to the canvas twice en route to a unanimous decision in their middleweight matchup. All three judges agreed on the 30-25 verdict in favor of the debuting Camden, NJ product Nyseam. Shoenfelt, who represents Holidayburg, PA, was also making his bare knuckle fighting debut.
Pembroke, NC’s Joshua “The Preacherman” Oxendine shined in his BKFC debut, earning a unanimous decision victory over his highly experienced opponent, Travis “The Animal” Thompson, in the opening bout of the night. All three judges agreed on the 30-27 verdict. Thompson, who hails from Pottstown, PA, is now 6-8 under the BKFC banner.
KnuckleMania VI Results
Andrei Arlovski def. (C) Ben Rothwell via TKO in Round 3 (1:14) -- Arlovski Wins BKFC World Heavyweight Title
Lorenzo Hunt def. David Mundell via KO in Round 4 (0:29)
John Garbarino def. Kaine Tomlinson Jr. via TKO in Round 5 (0:49)
Ben Bonner def. Tony Soto via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 48-47)
Patrick Brady def. Bear Hill via Unanimous Decision (50-42, 49-41, 49-43)
Jade Masson-Wong def. Crystal Pittman via Unanimous Decision (50-45x3)
Mike Richman def. Joe Elmore via Majority Decision (48-46, 49-45, 47-47)
Charles Bennett def. Pat Sullivan via TKO in Round 2 (1:56)
Cody Russell def. Harrison Aiken via TKO in Round 2 (1:16)
Zedekiah Montanez def. Brandon Meyer via KO in Round 2 (1:59)
Lex Ludlow def. Zach Calmus via Unanimous Decision (30-26x3)
Prince Nyseam def. Brett Shoenfelt via Unanimous Decision (30-25x3)
Joshua Oxendine def. Travis Thompson via Unanimous Decision (30-27x3)
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Jack Turner climbing the ranks at 115 pounds |
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Jack Turner TKO3 Juan Carlos Martínez... Undefeated British super flyweight Jack Turner added to his fast-rising career at Liverpool’s Echo Arena, where the corner of Juan Carlos Martínez (10-4-1) elected to withdraw their fighter before the start of the fourth round, awarding Turner the victory by retirement (RTD). From the opening round, Turner imposed both aggression and power, flooring Martínez early with a crisp combination. Despite the knockdown, the Mexican attempted to stay in the fight by seeking exchanges, but Turner’s speed and punch variety continued to make the difference. The third round proved both decisive. Amid the sustained pressure, the referee deducted a point from Martínez for repeated holding. At the end of the round, after assessing the accumulated punishment and his fighter’s physical condition, Martínez’s team chose not to allow him to continue, confirming Turner’s triumph. With the win, Jack Turner extends his perfect record to 14-0 with 13 stoppages.
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Jack Turner climbing the ranks at 115 pounds
Jack Turner TKO3 Juan Carlos Martínez... Undefeated British super flyweight Jack Turner added to his fast-rising career at Liverpool’s Echo Arena, where the corner of Juan Carlos Martínez (10-4-1) elected to withdraw their fighter before the start of the fourth round, awarding Turner the victory by retirement (RTD). From the opening round, Turner imposed both aggression and power, flooring Martínez early with a crisp combination. Despite the knockdown, the Mexican attempted to stay in the fight by seeking exchanges, but Turner’s speed and punch variety continued to make the difference. The third round proved both decisive. Amid the sustained pressure, the referee deducted a point from Martínez for repeated holding. At the end of the round, after assessing the accumulated punishment and his fighter’s physical condition, Martínez’s team chose not to allow him to continue, confirming Turner’s triumph. With the win, Jack Turner extends his perfect record to 14-0 with 13 stoppages.
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Figueroa KOs Ball in 12 for WBA featherweight crown |
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Brandon Figueroa KO12 Nick Ball.... After a close fight, Brandon Figueroa became a two-time champion with a twelfth-round knockout of WBA featherweight champion Nick Ball. The dramatic ending came in Ball's hometown of Liverpool England. After eleven rounds, the verdict seemed like it could go either way. Round twelve began with the fighters embracing each other, but about five seconds later, Ball was face down on the canvas. The 5'2" Ball got up, and referee Steve Gray could have, but did not stop the fight there. A couple of punches later, Figueroa sent Ball through the ropes and it was over. It was Ball's first loss as a professional. Figueroa is now 27-2-1, and starting his second reign as a champion (he was also a WBA regular champion).
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Figueroa KOs Ball in 12 for WBA featherweight crown
Brandon Figueroa KO12 Nick Ball.... After a close fight, Brandon Figueroa became a two-time champion with a twelfth-round knockout of WBA featherweight champion Nick Ball. The dramatic ending came in Ball's hometown of Liverpool England. After eleven rounds, the verdict seemed like it could go either way. Round twelve began with the fighters embracing each other, but about five seconds later, Ball was face down on the canvas. The 5'2" Ball got up, and referee Steve Gray could have, but did not stop the fight there. A couple of punches later, Figueroa sent Ball through the ropes and it was over. It was Ball's first loss as a professional. Figueroa is now 27-2-1, and starting his second reign as a champion (he was also a WBA regular champion).
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Cain wins eliminator despite being floored twice |
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Andrew Cain TKO9 Alejandro Jair Gonzalez... In Liverpool, Andrew Cain defeated Alejandro Jair Gonzalez in a WBC bantamweight eliminator by stoppage despite suffering two knockdowns himself. In round eight, Cain was down twice, the second time right as the round ended. But Cain turned the tables, scoring the first of two knockdowns in round nine. It wasn't a huge blow, and it looked like Gonzalez also slipped on the painted ring logo. But Cain pressed the advantage and soon floored Gonzalez again. The Mexican beat the count but paced around the ring not and failed to make eye contact with the referee, leading to the stoppage. Cain's resurgence to stop Gonzalez in the ninth earned him a shot at the WBC bantamweight title currently held by Takuma Inoue. ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Jack Turner retired Juan Carlos Urbina at the end of round three, moves to 14-0...
Hassan Ishaq moved to 3-0 with his third successive stoppage win, this time against Leonardo Baez... and
Brad Strand kicked off the night with a third-round stoppage of Ruben Lezama Gonzalez.
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Cain wins eliminator despite being floored twice
Andrew Cain TKO9 Alejandro Jair Gonzalez... In Liverpool, Andrew Cain defeated Alejandro Jair Gonzalez in a WBC bantamweight eliminator by stoppage despite suffering two knockdowns himself. In round eight, Cain was down twice, the second time right as the round ended. But Cain turned the tables, scoring the first of two knockdowns in round nine. It wasn't a huge blow, and it looked like Gonzalez also slipped on the painted ring logo. But Cain pressed the advantage and soon floored Gonzalez again. The Mexican beat the count but paced around the ring not and failed to make eye contact with the referee, leading to the stoppage. Cain's resurgence to stop Gonzalez in the ninth earned him a shot at the WBC bantamweight title currently held by Takuma Inoue. ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Jack Turner retired Juan Carlos Urbina at the end of round three, moves to 14-0...
Hassan Ishaq moved to 3-0 with his third successive stoppage win, this time against Leonardo Baez... and
Brad Strand kicked off the night with a third-round stoppage of Ruben Lezama Gonzalez.
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Medina retains WBO bantamweight title |
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Christian Medina W12 Adrien Curiel.... Christian Medina backed up his WBO bantamweight triumph last year with a first defense on home soil as he triumphed against Adrien Curiel. Medina thrilled the Guadalajara crowd, coasting to a unanimous decision at the city's Domo Alcalde across a dozen rounds to retain his belt. Medina won the all-Mexiacn battle by divergent scores of 120-108, 116-112, 115-113. Medina, who stunned Yoshiki Takei in Nagoya back in September to wrestle the strap away from the Japanese talent, had been tipped for success here. Curiel is a former IBF light flyweight champion, but is not highly regarded, and was at least two weight classes above his best. Medina controlled the bulk of their encounter, unlocking straight head-body switch combinations to soften his rival up and pin him back. A crunching right in the eighth round offered a potential opening to finish him off, though Curiel rallied to reach the final bell.
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Medina retains WBO bantamweight title
Christian Medina W12 Adrien Curiel.... Christian Medina backed up his WBO bantamweight triumph last year with a first defense on home soil as he triumphed against Adrien Curiel. Medina thrilled the Guadalajara crowd, coasting to a unanimous decision at the city's Domo Alcalde across a dozen rounds to retain his belt. Medina won the all-Mexiacn battle by divergent scores of 120-108, 116-112, 115-113. Medina, who stunned Yoshiki Takei in Nagoya back in September to wrestle the strap away from the Japanese talent, had been tipped for success here. Curiel is a former IBF light flyweight champion, but is not highly regarded, and was at least two weight classes above his best. Medina controlled the bulk of their encounter, unlocking straight head-body switch combinations to soften his rival up and pin him back. A crunching right in the eighth round offered a potential opening to finish him off, though Curiel rallied to reach the final bell.
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Weigh-in report from Liverpool |
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This Saturday, February 7th, the Echo Arena in Liverpool will host a showdown between undefeated hometown favorite Nick Ball, who is the reigning WBA featherweight champion, and former two-division champion Brandon Figueroa. Both men weighed in at 125.1 pounds on Friday. With both fighters known for their relentless punch output, these are the strategic keys that are likely to decide the outcome:
Distance and range management: Despite being the champion, Nick Ball (23-0-1, 13 KOs) faces a clear physical disadvantage. He stands just 5-foot-2, compared to Figueroa’s 5-foot-9 frame. Still, Ball has built his career by breaking down taller opponents. For the Brit, the key will be closing the distance quickly, shrinking the ring and forcing the fight into close quarters, where his low center of gravity allows him to land hooks and uppercuts from awkward angles that longer fighters struggle to defend.
Fighting on the inside: Unlike many tall fighters, Brandon Figueroa (26-2-1, 19 KOs) is very comfortable fighting on the inside—in fact, it’s his wheelhouse. “The Heartbreaker” thrives in close-range exchanges, using his reach to smother opponents with a constant stream of punches, particularly to the body. If Figueroa chooses to trade with Ball in the center of the ring, the fight could turn into a grueling war of attrition where durability and chin will be decisive.
The battle to the body: Most analysts agree the body will be the primary target. Ball has a tendency to slightly expose his midsection when unleashing power combinations, a vulnerability Figueroa—one of the best left-hook-to-the-body punchers in the division—will look to exploit. On the other side, Ball will aim to slow the American’s movement early, preventing Figueroa from relying on his jab to control distance in the later rounds.
The hometown factor: Nick Ball fights in his hometown, riding the momentum of recent victories over Sam Goodman and TJ Doheny. His aggressive style is designed to break an opponent’s will. Figueroa has warned that he’s no stranger to hostile territory, but he’ll need to stay tactically disciplined to avoid getting swept up in the frenzy that the Liverpool crowd will generate with every surge from their champion.
A fast-paced fight is expected. If Ball can consistently penetrate Figueroa’s guard and sustain the tempo, he enters as the favorite to retain his title by decision. However, if Figueroa manages to impose his size and sustained body attack, a change of power at 126 pounds before the final bell is very much in play.
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Weigh-in report from Liverpool
This Saturday, February 7th, the Echo Arena in Liverpool will host a showdown between undefeated hometown favorite Nick Ball, who is the reigning WBA featherweight champion, and former two-division champion Brandon Figueroa. Both men weighed in at 125.1 pounds on Friday. With both fighters known for their relentless punch output, these are the strategic keys that are likely to decide the outcome:
Distance and range management: Despite being the champion, Nick Ball (23-0-1, 13 KOs) faces a clear physical disadvantage. He stands just 5-foot-2, compared to Figueroa’s 5-foot-9 frame. Still, Ball has built his career by breaking down taller opponents. For the Brit, the key will be closing the distance quickly, shrinking the ring and forcing the fight into close quarters, where his low center of gravity allows him to land hooks and uppercuts from awkward angles that longer fighters struggle to defend.
Fighting on the inside: Unlike many tall fighters, Brandon Figueroa (26-2-1, 19 KOs) is very comfortable fighting on the inside—in fact, it’s his wheelhouse. “The Heartbreaker” thrives in close-range exchanges, using his reach to smother opponents with a constant stream of punches, particularly to the body. If Figueroa chooses to trade with Ball in the center of the ring, the fight could turn into a grueling war of attrition where durability and chin will be decisive.
The battle to the body: Most analysts agree the body will be the primary target. Ball has a tendency to slightly expose his midsection when unleashing power combinations, a vulnerability Figueroa—one of the best left-hook-to-the-body punchers in the division—will look to exploit. On the other side, Ball will aim to slow the American’s movement early, preventing Figueroa from relying on his jab to control distance in the later rounds.
The hometown factor: Nick Ball fights in his hometown, riding the momentum of recent victories over Sam Goodman and TJ Doheny. His aggressive style is designed to break an opponent’s will. Figueroa has warned that he’s no stranger to hostile territory, but he’ll need to stay tactically disciplined to avoid getting swept up in the frenzy that the Liverpool crowd will generate with every surge from their champion.
A fast-paced fight is expected. If Ball can consistently penetrate Figueroa’s guard and sustain the tempo, he enters as the favorite to retain his title by decision. However, if Figueroa manages to impose his size and sustained body attack, a change of power at 126 pounds before the final bell is very much in play.
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New Jersey show booked for March 7th |
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Boxing Insider Promotions will present a professional boxing event at the Tropicana Showroom in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Saturday, March 7th. The event will be headlined by a junior middleweight bout between “Mr. Atlantic City” Justin Figueroa (17-0) vs. James Blake Franklin (17-14-2). Tickets are available now through Ticketmaster. Other confirmed matchups:
Josh Popper vs. Dillon Pumphrey (heavyweight);
John Leonardo vs. Edgar Joe Cortes (junior featherweight);
Lia Lewandowski vs. Indeya “Azucar” Rodriguez (light flyweight);
Jacob Riley Solis vs. Jeremy Ramos (junior middleweight);
Jim Torney vs. Trevor Kotara (heavyweight).
Also scheduled to appear: Julio “Julez” Sanchez III and Jahanzeb Rizwan with more bouts to be announced.
“We are excited to bring our brand of club boxing back to the Boardwalk in 2026,” said Larry Goldberg, promoter of Boxing Insider Promotions. “Tropicana is the best venue in town to watch the fights and this card will not disappoint.”
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New Jersey show booked for March 7th
Boxing Insider Promotions will present a professional boxing event at the Tropicana Showroom in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Saturday, March 7th. The event will be headlined by a junior middleweight bout between “Mr. Atlantic City” Justin Figueroa (17-0) vs. James Blake Franklin (17-14-2). Tickets are available now through Ticketmaster. Other confirmed matchups:
Josh Popper vs. Dillon Pumphrey (heavyweight);
John Leonardo vs. Edgar Joe Cortes (junior featherweight);
Lia Lewandowski vs. Indeya “Azucar” Rodriguez (light flyweight);
Jacob Riley Solis vs. Jeremy Ramos (junior middleweight);
Jim Torney vs. Trevor Kotara (heavyweight).
Also scheduled to appear: Julio “Julez” Sanchez III and Jahanzeb Rizwan with more bouts to be announced.
“We are excited to bring our brand of club boxing back to the Boardwalk in 2026,” said Larry Goldberg, promoter of Boxing Insider Promotions. “Tropicana is the best venue in town to watch the fights and this card will not disappoint.”
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Tonight: WBO bantamweight title fight in Mexico |
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Defending champion Christian Medina and Adrian Curiel headline a high-stakes world title clash when the two Mexicans meet for the WBO bantamweight title in Guadalajara, live on DAZN. With a world belt on the line at 118 pounds, the bout places the bantamweight division firmly in the spotlight, as Medina (26-4) makes the first defense of the title he claimed last September via an upset road win over Yoshiki Takei in Japan. Curiel (26-6-1) briefly held the IBF 108-pound champion, but he lost that title in an immediate rematch to Sivenathi Nontshinga. Curiel then moved up to 112 pounds and was defeated by Sunny Edwards. Curiel has won two low-level fights since then.
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Tonight: WBO bantamweight title fight in Mexico
Defending champion Christian Medina and Adrian Curiel headline a high-stakes world title clash when the two Mexicans meet for the WBO bantamweight title in Guadalajara, live on DAZN. With a world belt on the line at 118 pounds, the bout places the bantamweight division firmly in the spotlight, as Medina (26-4) makes the first defense of the title he claimed last September via an upset road win over Yoshiki Takei in Japan. Curiel (26-6-1) briefly held the IBF 108-pound champion, but he lost that title in an immediate rematch to Sivenathi Nontshinga. Curiel then moved up to 112 pounds and was defeated by Sunny Edwards. Curiel has won two low-level fights since then.
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Mikaelian calls out Opetaia for cruiserweight unification |
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WBC cruiserweight champion Noel Gevor Mikaelian a/k/a Norair Mikaelian visited the WBC in Mexico City to receive the championship belt he earned back in December by dethroning Badou Jack. It was sweet revenge for Miakelian who lost a disputed majority decision to Jack earlier in the year. Accompanied in Mexico City by his manager, Anthony Girges, the slim yet powerful Mikaleian who reportedly speaks Armenian, German, French, Russian and English, delighted the WBC crowd by addressing them in Spanish.
Mikaelian has only lost to champions: Krzysztof Wlodarczyk, Mairis Briedis and first time around to Badou Jack. All three losses were close and competitive points defeats. Mikaelian said of them: “I don’t see them as losses. They were just fights. I won them in the ring. I didn’t get the decisions. They are just paper losses. Champions focus upon moving on. Practically, I’m undefeated.”
As for the future, Mikaelian said, “We are looking to unify the titles, so we are looking to fight [IBF champion] Jai Opetaia or one of the other champions [the only other champion is Gilberto Ramirez, who holds thew WBA and WBO titles]. Boxing is ninety percent mental. I know I can defeat Opetaia and it’ll be the toughest contest for him. He wants a stay busy fight right now, which I don’t understand. A unification is what the fans want and what the division needs. I myself feel great, and in the heavier divisions, you mature later and I feel at my strongest. But, boxing is like a chess match. It’s even more mental than physical. Everyone has a good preparation, so you have to outsmart them and be clever."
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Mikaelian calls out Opetaia for cruiserweight unification
WBC cruiserweight champion Noel Gevor Mikaelian a/k/a Norair Mikaelian visited the WBC in Mexico City to receive the championship belt he earned back in December by dethroning Badou Jack. It was sweet revenge for Miakelian who lost a disputed majority decision to Jack earlier in the year. Accompanied in Mexico City by his manager, Anthony Girges, the slim yet powerful Mikaleian who reportedly speaks Armenian, German, French, Russian and English, delighted the WBC crowd by addressing them in Spanish.
Mikaelian has only lost to champions: Krzysztof Wlodarczyk, Mairis Briedis and first time around to Badou Jack. All three losses were close and competitive points defeats. Mikaelian said of them: “I don’t see them as losses. They were just fights. I won them in the ring. I didn’t get the decisions. They are just paper losses. Champions focus upon moving on. Practically, I’m undefeated.”
As for the future, Mikaelian said, “We are looking to unify the titles, so we are looking to fight [IBF champion] Jai Opetaia or one of the other champions [the only other champion is Gilberto Ramirez, who holds thew WBA and WBO titles]. Boxing is ninety percent mental. I know I can defeat Opetaia and it’ll be the toughest contest for him. He wants a stay busy fight right now, which I don’t understand. A unification is what the fans want and what the division needs. I myself feel great, and in the heavier divisions, you mature later and I feel at my strongest. But, boxing is like a chess match. It’s even more mental than physical. Everyone has a good preparation, so you have to outsmart them and be clever."
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Thurman: "watch what happens when I hit Fundora's chin" |
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WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman went face to face at a press conference in Los Angeles Wednesday to promote their PBC pay-per-view fight scheduled for Saturday, March 28th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Fundora and Thurman were originally scheduled to meet last October, before Fundora suffered a hand contusion in sparring. With Fundora back in action, this matchup will deliver a fascinating clash of styles and an elite level crossroads duel. During the press conference, Thurman implored fans to “watch what happens when I hit this man’s chin, he’s gonna do a pretty little dance,” while the always-stoic Fundora promised to do his talking in the ring. Here is what Thurman had to say Wednesday from Avalon Hollywood:
“I already see the mistakes that he’s unfortunately gonna be making on March 28th. Boxing isn’t about the talk though, it’s about delivering in the ring. Fundora is a man of few words, but many punches. And because of that, you can guarantee that this pay-per-view is a can’t-miss.
“Beating me would be the greatest accomplishment of your career Fundora, don’t lie to yourself…You have been hit and not gotten off the canvas. I’m happy to make you experience it again.
“I’m looking forward to boxing hard and putting on a great performance to get that belt right there.
“To me, the real great champions are the type of champions who stumble, only to rise up again. That’s what I’m trying to do right here right now.
“I’m already a stamped Hall of Famer for what I accomplished at welterweight. But what I love about this fight is that there are only so many fighters from my generation who are still here today. There is a plethora of young fighters that have taken over, including Sebastian Fundora. I believe in my skills and my talent. Say I’m the gatekeeper, but I’m the final boss.
“Sparring is gonna be really solid for this fight. I was starting to get used to the height and reach discrepancy last camp and now I’m just activating that muscle memory for this camp. This was my first time sparring guys that tall, so having this extra time makes me feel more confident.
“My original coach Ben Getty used to say: ‘you do your homework, you pass the test.’ Now that we’ve had more time to study, I plan on passing with flying colors.
“I’m so grateful to be back in the ring. I wanted this dream to come true last year, but sometimes patience is a virtue. We’ve got one thing on our mind this whole camp, and that’s timber!”
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Thurman: "watch what happens when I hit Fundora's chin"
WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman went face to face at a press conference in Los Angeles Wednesday to promote their PBC pay-per-view fight scheduled for Saturday, March 28th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Fundora and Thurman were originally scheduled to meet last October, before Fundora suffered a hand contusion in sparring. With Fundora back in action, this matchup will deliver a fascinating clash of styles and an elite level crossroads duel. During the press conference, Thurman implored fans to “watch what happens when I hit this man’s chin, he’s gonna do a pretty little dance,” while the always-stoic Fundora promised to do his talking in the ring. Here is what Thurman had to say Wednesday from Avalon Hollywood:
“I already see the mistakes that he’s unfortunately gonna be making on March 28th. Boxing isn’t about the talk though, it’s about delivering in the ring. Fundora is a man of few words, but many punches. And because of that, you can guarantee that this pay-per-view is a can’t-miss.
“Beating me would be the greatest accomplishment of your career Fundora, don’t lie to yourself…You have been hit and not gotten off the canvas. I’m happy to make you experience it again.
“I’m looking forward to boxing hard and putting on a great performance to get that belt right there.
“To me, the real great champions are the type of champions who stumble, only to rise up again. That’s what I’m trying to do right here right now.
“I’m already a stamped Hall of Famer for what I accomplished at welterweight. But what I love about this fight is that there are only so many fighters from my generation who are still here today. There is a plethora of young fighters that have taken over, including Sebastian Fundora. I believe in my skills and my talent. Say I’m the gatekeeper, but I’m the final boss.
“Sparring is gonna be really solid for this fight. I was starting to get used to the height and reach discrepancy last camp and now I’m just activating that muscle memory for this camp. This was my first time sparring guys that tall, so having this extra time makes me feel more confident.
“My original coach Ben Getty used to say: ‘you do your homework, you pass the test.’ Now that we’ve had more time to study, I plan on passing with flying colors.
“I’m so grateful to be back in the ring. I wanted this dream to come true last year, but sometimes patience is a virtue. We’ve got one thing on our mind this whole camp, and that’s timber!”
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Rothwell vs. Arlovski III happening in BKFC on Saturday |
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In the main event of BKFC's KnuckleMania VI on Saturday, Wisconsin's Ben Rothwell will defend his BKFC heavyweight championship for the first time against long-time rival Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski, live on the BKFC App and the BKFC YouTube page from Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. Sprinkle in the fact that Arlovski is the proud owner of two MMA victories over Rothwell, and Saturday’s headliner becomes even more important for Rothwell.
The opportunity to headline such a showcase event isn’t something that Rothwell takes for granted. “I don’t think there’s a bigger cheerleader for BKFC than me. I’ve loved this company since Day 1 and have worked really hard to help it grow. It’s hard to put into words how big this is — it’s not just another fight,” Rothwell says. “And just winning isn’t enough for me either. I’ve got so much respect for BKFC and the promotion’s fans that it’s really important that I go out there and make a statement and give people something to talk about.”
Is Rothwell feeling the heat of the moment? “No more than usual. There’s always pressure. If you don’t feel that, you shouldn’t be in there fighting,” he offers. “Every fight is a must-win fight for me. I’m at a stage in my career where it probably only makes sense for me to continue fighting if I continue winning. It can be a long road back to the top, so I’m working as hard as I can to be at the top of my game.”
Rothwell has accomplished more in combat sports than the vast majority of athletes ever will. So what drives him after so many years and competitions? “It’s been so cool to see the growth of BKFC — from humble beginnings, to being a major player in the combat sports arena — and it’s given me an amazing platform to make the fans go wild and put them on their feet. That’s what drives me,” he says. “Going out there and seeing that excitement that you created is something that money can’t buy.”
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Rothwell vs. Arlovski III happening in BKFC on Saturday
In the main event of BKFC's KnuckleMania VI on Saturday, Wisconsin's Ben Rothwell will defend his BKFC heavyweight championship for the first time against long-time rival Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski, live on the BKFC App and the BKFC YouTube page from Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. Sprinkle in the fact that Arlovski is the proud owner of two MMA victories over Rothwell, and Saturday’s headliner becomes even more important for Rothwell.
The opportunity to headline such a showcase event isn’t something that Rothwell takes for granted. “I don’t think there’s a bigger cheerleader for BKFC than me. I’ve loved this company since Day 1 and have worked really hard to help it grow. It’s hard to put into words how big this is — it’s not just another fight,” Rothwell says. “And just winning isn’t enough for me either. I’ve got so much respect for BKFC and the promotion’s fans that it’s really important that I go out there and make a statement and give people something to talk about.”
Is Rothwell feeling the heat of the moment? “No more than usual. There’s always pressure. If you don’t feel that, you shouldn’t be in there fighting,” he offers. “Every fight is a must-win fight for me. I’m at a stage in my career where it probably only makes sense for me to continue fighting if I continue winning. It can be a long road back to the top, so I’m working as hard as I can to be at the top of my game.”
Rothwell has accomplished more in combat sports than the vast majority of athletes ever will. So what drives him after so many years and competitions? “It’s been so cool to see the growth of BKFC — from humble beginnings, to being a major player in the combat sports arena — and it’s given me an amazing platform to make the fans go wild and put them on their feet. That’s what drives me,” he says. “Going out there and seeing that excitement that you created is something that money can’t buy.”
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Late announcement: MVP adds more women stars to its roster |
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Last week, Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions continued its dominance of women's boxing by announcing yet another mass signing of some of the sport's top athletes. Paul tweted, "We are proud to officially announce the signing of [WBC featherweight champion] Tiara Brown, [IBF junior middleweight champion] Oshae Jones, [Brazilian influencer] Jully Poca, LeAnna Cruz, Miranda Reyes, and Elise Soto. This group represents championship pedigree, undefeated talent, international reach, and fighters who have earned every opportunity through discipline and sacrifice. From world champions to rising stars, each of them brings a different path, a different story, and the same relentless mindset. They don’t cut corners. They don’t wait their turn. They show up, do the work, and move with purpose…the MVP Way."
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Late announcement: MVP adds more women stars to its roster
Last week, Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions continued its dominance of women's boxing by announcing yet another mass signing of some of the sport's top athletes. Paul tweted, "We are proud to officially announce the signing of [WBC featherweight champion] Tiara Brown, [IBF junior middleweight champion] Oshae Jones, [Brazilian influencer] Jully Poca, LeAnna Cruz, Miranda Reyes, and Elise Soto. This group represents championship pedigree, undefeated talent, international reach, and fighters who have earned every opportunity through discipline and sacrifice. From world champions to rising stars, each of them brings a different path, a different story, and the same relentless mindset. They don’t cut corners. They don’t wait their turn. They show up, do the work, and move with purpose…the MVP Way."
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Introducing New Mexico's Ariana Carrasco |
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Ariana Carrasco has signed a long-term management agreement with Trifon Petrov and Imperial Boxing. Carrasco trains at Dona Ana Boxing Gym in Las Cruces, New Mexico under her father Rene Carrasco. She started boxing at age 12 and had over 80 amateur fights. She had an impressive amateur career and won 12 national championships and was an international medalist while representing Team USA. Under the management of Petrov, Ariana Carrasco reunites with former teammates of Team USA, such as Reina and Gabriela Tellez, Ivy Enriquez and USA Olympian, Rashida Ellis. Carrasco is expected to make her professional debut in El Paso, Texas in March on a card promoted by Kings Promotions.
“I’m super excited to be under the management of Trifon Petrov and I cannot wait to see what we do together in the years to come. I am very anxious to get in the ring and put my hard work on display”, said Carrasco.
At only 22 years old, Ariana is a US Army veteran. She served 4 years in the Army right after she graduated High School. While in the military, she continued to compete and win national titles. “Ariana is an extremely talented boxer with incredible potential. I am thankful she trusted me to guide her as she makes the transition to the professional boxing world. I am looking forward to helping achieve her dreams of becoming a World Champion”, said Trifon Petrov.
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Introducing New Mexico's Ariana Carrasco
Ariana Carrasco has signed a long-term management agreement with Trifon Petrov and Imperial Boxing. Carrasco trains at Dona Ana Boxing Gym in Las Cruces, New Mexico under her father Rene Carrasco. She started boxing at age 12 and had over 80 amateur fights. She had an impressive amateur career and won 12 national championships and was an international medalist while representing Team USA. Under the management of Petrov, Ariana Carrasco reunites with former teammates of Team USA, such as Reina and Gabriela Tellez, Ivy Enriquez and USA Olympian, Rashida Ellis. Carrasco is expected to make her professional debut in El Paso, Texas in March on a card promoted by Kings Promotions.
“I’m super excited to be under the management of Trifon Petrov and I cannot wait to see what we do together in the years to come. I am very anxious to get in the ring and put my hard work on display”, said Carrasco.
At only 22 years old, Ariana is a US Army veteran. She served 4 years in the Army right after she graduated High School. While in the military, she continued to compete and win national titles. “Ariana is an extremely talented boxer with incredible potential. I am thankful she trusted me to guide her as she makes the transition to the professional boxing world. I am looking forward to helping achieve her dreams of becoming a World Champion”, said Trifon Petrov.
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DAZN inks deal with MF Pro |
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MF Pro has agreed a long-term broadcast deal with DAZN, and they intend to start the partnership off with April 4th’s pay-per-view heavyweight clash between Derek Chisora and Deontay Wilder. News of another MF Pro show, live only on DAZN, will be announced on Friday. Kalle Sauerland, who has promoted close to 50 world champions in his career, which started with Germany's Sauerland Event, said: “MF Pro sent shockwaves through the sport when announcing Chisora vs. Wilder and today we deliver yet another statement of intent by announcing this long-term deal with DAZN. DAZN is the global home of boxing and there is no better place to showcase MF Pro events, to DAZN’s huge audience of sports fans around the world. We are thrilled to be partnering with DAZN and can’t wait to work together on delivering must-see fights.”
Pete Oliver, CEO of Growth Markets at DAZN, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome MF Pro to DAZN, underlining our position as the global home of boxing. DAZN already works with the sport’s leading promoters and delivers an unrivalled schedule of major fight nights to fans worldwide. Adding MF Pro enhances the breadth of our boxing offering even further. With excitement building around marquee events such as Chisora vs Wilder, this partnership reinforces DAZN as the platform where the biggest fights and elite promoters come together.”
Chisora vs. Wilder, on April 4th, will be available globally on DAZN pay-per-view. Fans can also sign up to DAZN Ultimate, the definitive boxing subscription, which includes a minimum of 12 PPVs a year, including Ryan Garcia vs Mario Barrios and this explosive heavyweight encounter, plus more than 180 other great fights.
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DAZN inks deal with MF Pro
MF Pro has agreed a long-term broadcast deal with DAZN, and they intend to start the partnership off with April 4th’s pay-per-view heavyweight clash between Derek Chisora and Deontay Wilder. News of another MF Pro show, live only on DAZN, will be announced on Friday. Kalle Sauerland, who has promoted close to 50 world champions in his career, which started with Germany's Sauerland Event, said: “MF Pro sent shockwaves through the sport when announcing Chisora vs. Wilder and today we deliver yet another statement of intent by announcing this long-term deal with DAZN. DAZN is the global home of boxing and there is no better place to showcase MF Pro events, to DAZN’s huge audience of sports fans around the world. We are thrilled to be partnering with DAZN and can’t wait to work together on delivering must-see fights.”
Pete Oliver, CEO of Growth Markets at DAZN, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome MF Pro to DAZN, underlining our position as the global home of boxing. DAZN already works with the sport’s leading promoters and delivers an unrivalled schedule of major fight nights to fans worldwide. Adding MF Pro enhances the breadth of our boxing offering even further. With excitement building around marquee events such as Chisora vs Wilder, this partnership reinforces DAZN as the platform where the biggest fights and elite promoters come together.”
Chisora vs. Wilder, on April 4th, will be available globally on DAZN pay-per-view. Fans can also sign up to DAZN Ultimate, the definitive boxing subscription, which includes a minimum of 12 PPVs a year, including Ryan Garcia vs Mario Barrios and this explosive heavyweight encounter, plus more than 180 other great fights.
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Stevenson stripped after refusing WBC's demand for $100K |
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Rather than allow Shakur Stevenson a reasonable period of time to decide in which weight class he wants to campaign, the WBC stripped him of his 135-pound title less than three days after he moved up to win the world 140-pound championship from Teofimo Lopez. Stevenson remains the world / WBO junior welterweight champion. Here is what the WBC wrote: "On January 31st, WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson gave a brilliant performance to defeat WBO [and] world [junior welterweight] champion Teofimo López. Champion Stevenson is now a four-time world champion, a feat achieved by a few boxers in history. Among those boxers we find Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Alvarez and Terrence Crawford. Throughout his career, Champion Stevenson has maintained a historic and extraordinarily successful relationship with the WBC. His ascent to the top began in January 2019, when he captured [a WBC regional] title, signaling the start of a career destined for greatness. In 2022, Stevenson solidified his elite status by defeating Oscar Valdez to become the WBC [junior lightweight] champion. Subsequently, in 2023, he moved up to the lightweight division to claim the green and gold belt, a title he defended with pride and technical mastery on three consecutive occasions. In light of Champion Stevenson now being the reigning WBO [and] world [junior welterweight] champion and consistent with the WBC Rules & Regulations, the WBC has declared vacant its lightweight world title. The WBC wishes Champion Stevenson continued success in all his future endeavors, both inside and outside the ring. The WBC will provide further information regarding the process to crown a new lightweight world champion in the near future."
Stevenson's social media response quickly made it clear that the WBC acted rashly over a money dispute. The champ wrote: "$100,000 to some crooks who don’t deserve it? Nah Leilani [Stevenson's daughter], I rather give it to u baby girl.. The WBC didn’t even have sh*t to do with this fight and it’s eating them alive... take your belt it don’t make me."
Stevenson is following the example set by his mentor, the great Terence Crawford, who did the same thing two months ago: On September 13, 2025, Crawford became the world super middleweight champion, defeating Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez in a brilliant performance. The fight was contested for the WBC, WBO, IBF, and WBA titles. At its convention shortly afterwards, the WBC stripped Crawford of the WBC title over a dispute about sanctioning fees. Crawford responded with a mic-drop video shaming the WBC and its president. His choicest comments were: "Just had to get something off my chest. I got a lot to say... I see Mauricio [Sulaiman, president of the WBC] got a lot to say about me not paying him $300,000... They ain't going to tell me. I ain't [going to] apologize. Like, who the f--- you think I am? Well, you better slap your f-in self. I ain't paying your ass sh*t. What the f-ck you talking about pay you $300,000? What makes you so mother's---ckin better than any other other sanctioning bodies ... You can take the f-ckin belt. It's a trophy anyway... Why should I have to pay to carry your belt? You should be paying me. It irks my nerves how this dude gets on a plane, gets a hotel suite, him and his buddies go out to five star meals and guess who has to pay for it? Us fighters... It's all done on our dime... We getting battered, knocked upside our head but everyone we set foot in the ring, we gotta pay the. We getting taxed, its crazy... Mauricio, I appreciate you because everyone in the word knows you were going for Canelo, and you were mad I beat Canelo. If you were a real fan of the sport you would have said congratulations. But listen, you should have taken the money [I offered] and you should have been grateful... but you wanted to make it about you."
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Stevenson stripped after refusing WBC's demand for $100K
Rather than allow Shakur Stevenson a reasonable period of time to decide in which weight class he wants to campaign, the WBC stripped him of his 135-pound title less than three days after he moved up to win the world 140-pound championship from Teofimo Lopez. Stevenson remains the world / WBO junior welterweight champion. Here is what the WBC wrote: "On January 31st, WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson gave a brilliant performance to defeat WBO [and] world [junior welterweight] champion Teofimo López. Champion Stevenson is now a four-time world champion, a feat achieved by a few boxers in history. Among those boxers we find Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Alvarez and Terrence Crawford. Throughout his career, Champion Stevenson has maintained a historic and extraordinarily successful relationship with the WBC. His ascent to the top began in January 2019, when he captured [a WBC regional] title, signaling the start of a career destined for greatness. In 2022, Stevenson solidified his elite status by defeating Oscar Valdez to become the WBC [junior lightweight] champion. Subsequently, in 2023, he moved up to the lightweight division to claim the green and gold belt, a title he defended with pride and technical mastery on three consecutive occasions. In light of Champion Stevenson now being the reigning WBO [and] world [junior welterweight] champion and consistent with the WBC Rules & Regulations, the WBC has declared vacant its lightweight world title. The WBC wishes Champion Stevenson continued success in all his future endeavors, both inside and outside the ring. The WBC will provide further information regarding the process to crown a new lightweight world champion in the near future."
Stevenson's social media response quickly made it clear that the WBC acted rashly over a money dispute. The champ wrote: "$100,000 to some crooks who don’t deserve it? Nah Leilani [Stevenson's daughter], I rather give it to u baby girl.. The WBC didn’t even have sh*t to do with this fight and it’s eating them alive... take your belt it don’t make me."
Stevenson is following the example set by his mentor, the great Terence Crawford, who did the same thing two months ago: On September 13, 2025, Crawford became the world super middleweight champion, defeating Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez in a brilliant performance. The fight was contested for the WBC, WBO, IBF, and WBA titles. At its convention shortly afterwards, the WBC stripped Crawford of the WBC title over a dispute about sanctioning fees. Crawford responded with a mic-drop video shaming the WBC and its president. His choicest comments were: "Just had to get something off my chest. I got a lot to say... I see Mauricio [Sulaiman, president of the WBC] got a lot to say about me not paying him $300,000... They ain't going to tell me. I ain't [going to] apologize. Like, who the f--- you think I am? Well, you better slap your f-in self. I ain't paying your ass sh*t. What the f-ck you talking about pay you $300,000? What makes you so mother's---ckin better than any other other sanctioning bodies ... You can take the f-ckin belt. It's a trophy anyway... Why should I have to pay to carry your belt? You should be paying me. It irks my nerves how this dude gets on a plane, gets a hotel suite, him and his buddies go out to five star meals and guess who has to pay for it? Us fighters... It's all done on our dime... We getting battered, knocked upside our head but everyone we set foot in the ring, we gotta pay the. We getting taxed, its crazy... Mauricio, I appreciate you because everyone in the word knows you were going for Canelo, and you were mad I beat Canelo. If you were a real fan of the sport you would have said congratulations. But listen, you should have taken the money [I offered] and you should have been grateful... but you wanted to make it about you."
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Wilder: "I need Chisora more than he needs me" |
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Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (44-4-1, 43 KOs) and perennial contender Derek “War” Chisora (pictured, 36-13, 23 KOs) will collide in a DAZN pay-per-view at London's O2 Arena on April 4th, with tickets going on sale on Friday.At the London press conference on Wednesday, Chisora said: "We want to sell this fight a different way. I don’t want to sell this fight on the point of violence. There’s too much violence in the world right now. We want to sell it based on the love between me and my brother here. He’s 40, I’m in my forties. Can you imagine two grown men right now wrestling on the floor? You would be like, ‘What the hell is this?’.. [but] I am taking it seriously. It’s the last fight, number 50,” he said, adding that Wilder might not get such a friendly reception when he returns to the UK for fight week.
Wilder said: “I’m looking forward to the fight. I need this fight. I need Derek more than he needs me because of what he brings to the table. I need to see where I am. I feel like I’m back. I’ve been broken down and built back up all over again and here I am, with a smile on my face and my spirit so high that I can fly. And I’m looking forward to it.
“This is a must-win for me. Not only a win but I need a devastating win. I need a knockout. That’s what people come to see…. We have question marks on our backs because we’re unpredictable as fighters, but his style matches my style and mine matches his.
Event promoter Kalle Sauerland said: “They’re in the twilight of their careers. But when they were talking, I thought ‘What a crime it would be for this generation if they didn’t fight."
Chisora's promoter, Frank Warren said: "As soon as that bell goes, it’s going to be a war. It’s going to be bombs away with the two of them and you are going to be on the edge of your seat.”
Event promoter Amer Adballah said: "We expect this to be a sell-out career at the O2 Arena. April 4th, it is going to be an absolute blockbuster."
Wilder's manager, Shelly Finkel said: “It’s a great test. I think my guy wins but I don’t think it’s easy by any means…. It’s something the fans will leave from thinking, ‘Wow, I’m glad I saw that…’ It’s a very dangerous fight and I’m glad I’m part of it.”
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Wilder: "I need Chisora more than he needs me"
Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (44-4-1, 43 KOs) and perennial contender Derek “War” Chisora (pictured, 36-13, 23 KOs) will collide in a DAZN pay-per-view at London's O2 Arena on April 4th, with tickets going on sale on Friday.At the London press conference on Wednesday, Chisora said: "We want to sell this fight a different way. I don’t want to sell this fight on the point of violence. There’s too much violence in the world right now. We want to sell it based on the love between me and my brother here. He’s 40, I’m in my forties. Can you imagine two grown men right now wrestling on the floor? You would be like, ‘What the hell is this?’.. [but] I am taking it seriously. It’s the last fight, number 50,” he said, adding that Wilder might not get such a friendly reception when he returns to the UK for fight week.
Wilder said: “I’m looking forward to the fight. I need this fight. I need Derek more than he needs me because of what he brings to the table. I need to see where I am. I feel like I’m back. I’ve been broken down and built back up all over again and here I am, with a smile on my face and my spirit so high that I can fly. And I’m looking forward to it.
“This is a must-win for me. Not only a win but I need a devastating win. I need a knockout. That’s what people come to see…. We have question marks on our backs because we’re unpredictable as fighters, but his style matches my style and mine matches his.
Event promoter Kalle Sauerland said: “They’re in the twilight of their careers. But when they were talking, I thought ‘What a crime it would be for this generation if they didn’t fight."
Chisora's promoter, Frank Warren said: "As soon as that bell goes, it’s going to be a war. It’s going to be bombs away with the two of them and you are going to be on the edge of your seat.”
Event promoter Amer Adballah said: "We expect this to be a sell-out career at the O2 Arena. April 4th, it is going to be an absolute blockbuster."
Wilder's manager, Shelly Finkel said: “It’s a great test. I think my guy wins but I don’t think it’s easy by any means…. It’s something the fans will leave from thinking, ‘Wow, I’m glad I saw that…’ It’s a very dangerous fight and I’m glad I’m part of it.”
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IBF sends Leo vs. Aleem to purse bid |
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On December 23rd, the IBF ordered its featherweight champion Angelo Leo and its #1 ranked contender Ra’eese Aleem to begin negotiations for a mandatory defense of the title. An agreement was not reached within the timeframe set forth by the IBF, so the IBF has scheduled a purse bid for February 17th. Leo (26-1) is a two-division champion who took the title from Luis Alberto Lopez in 2024 and then defended it last year in Japan against Tomoki Kameda. Aleem (23-1) is on a run of three high quality wins since losing a split decision to Sam Goodman in Australia in 2023.
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IBF sends Leo vs. Aleem to purse bid
On December 23rd, the IBF ordered its featherweight champion Angelo Leo and its #1 ranked contender Ra’eese Aleem to begin negotiations for a mandatory defense of the title. An agreement was not reached within the timeframe set forth by the IBF, so the IBF has scheduled a purse bid for February 17th. Leo (26-1) is a two-division champion who took the title from Luis Alberto Lopez in 2024 and then defended it last year in Japan against Tomoki Kameda. Aleem (23-1) is on a run of three high quality wins since losing a split decision to Sam Goodman in Australia in 2023.
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Spotlight on Fundora vs. Thurman |
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WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will be looking to continue his reign against former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in a clash that headlines a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, March 28th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Fundora and Thurman were originally scheduled to meet last October, before Fundora suffered a hand contusion in sparring. Thurman can boost his potential Hall of Fame credentials by reaching the top of a second weight class. For tickets to the show, public on-sale begins on Thursday, February 5th at 10 a.m. PT through AXS.com. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.
“Sebastian Fundora is can’t-miss action every time he steps into the ring, and he’s highly-motivated to put on a show yet again against one of this era’s premier champions in Keith Thurman,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fundora and Thurman have been gearing up to square off for months and will finally go toe-to-toe on March 28 in Las Vegas headlining this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video, with the winner in pole position to claim the throne as the super welterweight king. Fundora’s non-stop pressure against Thurman’s heavy hands and skills are perfect ingredients for tense drama right from the opening bell.”
“Sebastian is 100% ready to return to the ring,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “This is a tough fight and Sebastian doesn’t underestimate any opponent, especially not a great former champion like Keith Thurman. I’m looking forward to Sebastian putting on another exciting performance to further establish himself as the best super welterweight in the world today.”
Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs) first rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division by dethroning Tim Tszyu via decision in 2024’s bloodiest fight, earning both the WBC and WBO titles. After defending his belts with a knockout of Chordale Booker in March of last year, Fundora put his WBC belt back on the line in a July rematch against Tszyu. This time, Fundora closed the show in style, dropping Tszyu in the first round before forcing an end to the bout after round seven. A native of Coachella, California, Fundora notably showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in a Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. The 28-year-old has defeated a slew of contenders throughout his career, with his only defeat coming to Brian Mendoza in 2023. Standing nearly six-feet, six-inches, Fundora represents one of boxing’s most accomplished families, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, undisputed flyweight world champion Gabriela. The two fighting Fundora’s are the first brother and sister to simultaneously hold world championships.
“Camp is going great,” said Fundora. “Saturday, March 28th is going to be an exciting night for boxing fans with Sebastian ‘The Towering Inferno’ Fundora taking over Las Vegas once again.”
Clearwater, Florida’s Thurman (31-1, 23 KOs) has assembled an impressive resume, having defeated former champions Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero in high-profile clashes, unifying the WBA and WBC titles against Garcia in a rare unification bout between undefeated welterweight champions. Thurman’s only blemish came in 2019 against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, with Thurman ending up on the wrong side of a narrow split-decision. Thurman bounced back against the now reigning WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario Barrios by winning a unanimous decision in February 2022. He was set to face Australian superstar Tim Tszyu in March 2024 before being forced to withdraw due to injury, eventually returning to the ring last March with a third-round stoppage of Brock Jarvis.
“I picked up my first pair of gloves 30 years ago, and somehow I’m still hungry for more,” said Thurman. “On March 28th I have the opportunity to become world champion again and write my comeback story. I may be up against ‘The Towering Inferno’, but every cell in my body knows he’s not on my level. What I plan to do will be historical. This is a classic matchup of old school vs. new school, and it’s one fight fans don’t want to miss. I’m ready to rumble!”
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Spotlight on Fundora vs. Thurman
WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will be looking to continue his reign against former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in a clash that headlines a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, March 28th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Fundora and Thurman were originally scheduled to meet last October, before Fundora suffered a hand contusion in sparring. Thurman can boost his potential Hall of Fame credentials by reaching the top of a second weight class. For tickets to the show, public on-sale begins on Thursday, February 5th at 10 a.m. PT through AXS.com. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.
“Sebastian Fundora is can’t-miss action every time he steps into the ring, and he’s highly-motivated to put on a show yet again against one of this era’s premier champions in Keith Thurman,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fundora and Thurman have been gearing up to square off for months and will finally go toe-to-toe on March 28 in Las Vegas headlining this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video, with the winner in pole position to claim the throne as the super welterweight king. Fundora’s non-stop pressure against Thurman’s heavy hands and skills are perfect ingredients for tense drama right from the opening bell.”
“Sebastian is 100% ready to return to the ring,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “This is a tough fight and Sebastian doesn’t underestimate any opponent, especially not a great former champion like Keith Thurman. I’m looking forward to Sebastian putting on another exciting performance to further establish himself as the best super welterweight in the world today.”
Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs) first rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division by dethroning Tim Tszyu via decision in 2024’s bloodiest fight, earning both the WBC and WBO titles. After defending his belts with a knockout of Chordale Booker in March of last year, Fundora put his WBC belt back on the line in a July rematch against Tszyu. This time, Fundora closed the show in style, dropping Tszyu in the first round before forcing an end to the bout after round seven. A native of Coachella, California, Fundora notably showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in a Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. The 28-year-old has defeated a slew of contenders throughout his career, with his only defeat coming to Brian Mendoza in 2023. Standing nearly six-feet, six-inches, Fundora represents one of boxing’s most accomplished families, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, undisputed flyweight world champion Gabriela. The two fighting Fundora’s are the first brother and sister to simultaneously hold world championships.
“Camp is going great,” said Fundora. “Saturday, March 28th is going to be an exciting night for boxing fans with Sebastian ‘The Towering Inferno’ Fundora taking over Las Vegas once again.”
Clearwater, Florida’s Thurman (31-1, 23 KOs) has assembled an impressive resume, having defeated former champions Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero in high-profile clashes, unifying the WBA and WBC titles against Garcia in a rare unification bout between undefeated welterweight champions. Thurman’s only blemish came in 2019 against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, with Thurman ending up on the wrong side of a narrow split-decision. Thurman bounced back against the now reigning WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario Barrios by winning a unanimous decision in February 2022. He was set to face Australian superstar Tim Tszyu in March 2024 before being forced to withdraw due to injury, eventually returning to the ring last March with a third-round stoppage of Brock Jarvis.
“I picked up my first pair of gloves 30 years ago, and somehow I’m still hungry for more,” said Thurman. “On March 28th I have the opportunity to become world champion again and write my comeback story. I may be up against ‘The Towering Inferno’, but every cell in my body knows he’s not on my level. What I plan to do will be historical. This is a classic matchup of old school vs. new school, and it’s one fight fans don’t want to miss. I’m ready to rumble!”
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Appendicitis forces Ramirez out of interim title defense |
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The WBA light heavyweight interim title fight highly between Venezuela's Albert Ramírez and Britain’s Lerrone Richards has been officially postponed due to a last-minute medical issue affecting the Venezuelan fighter. According to a medical report confirmed by his team, Ramírez was diagnosed with acute appendicitis. The bout was scheduled for Thursday, February 5th in Montreal and was set to be Ramírez’s first defense of his interim title. The show has been postponed indefinitely while Ramirez's recovery timeline is assessed.
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Appendicitis forces Ramirez out of interim title defense
The WBA light heavyweight interim title fight highly between Venezuela's Albert Ramírez and Britain’s Lerrone Richards has been officially postponed due to a last-minute medical issue affecting the Venezuelan fighter. According to a medical report confirmed by his team, Ramírez was diagnosed with acute appendicitis. The bout was scheduled for Thursday, February 5th in Montreal and was set to be Ramírez’s first defense of his interim title. The show has been postponed indefinitely while Ramirez's recovery timeline is assessed.
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Sumo wrestling returns to New Jersey in April |
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World Elite Sumo (WES) rumbles into Newark, New Jersey's Prudential Center on Saturday, April 18th. Following the sold-out success of Sumo Fight Club at White Eagle Hall (Jersey City, NJ) , WES continues its national expansion with a globally inspired event designed to thrill both longtime combat sports fans and first-time sumo audiences. “Prudential Center is the perfect stage for what we’re building,” said Abdelrahman “Sandstorm” Shalan, founder of WES and world-renowned sumo champion. “We’re honoring the traditions of sumo while presenting it in a fast-paced, modern format that delivers explosive action every single match.” World Elite Sumo brings together top-level athletes from around the world, featuring live taiko drumming, dramatic entrances, and an immersive fight-night production that blends athleticism, intensity, and spectacle. The WES format emphasizes quick, decisive matches with one clear winner every time. WES matches are contested in a best-of-three format, increasing competitive stakes and maintaining a fast, fan-friendly pace.
Athletes compete wearing mandatory fight shorts beneath the traditional mawashi (sumo belt), reflecting modern athletic standards while preserving the heritage of sumo.
“We are thrilled to welcome World Elite Sumo to Prudential Center,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for HBSE/Prudential Center. “As this sport’s fans have witnessed for 1,500+ years, sumo wrestling’s unique combination of strength, athleticism, international talent, and high-energy entertainment will make April 18 an unforgettable night for fans in New Jersey and beyond.”
WES founder Shalan has scoured the globe in search of elite athletes with the strength, speed, skill, and power to compete at the highest level. Recent rosters have included fighters from Japan, Egypt, Brazil, Mongolia, Russia, and the United States, creating a truly international showcase of talent.
Tickets go on sale Friday, February 6th at 10 am ET on PruCenter.com or Ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and the event begins at 7:00 p.m. For more information on WES, visit www.prucenter.com or www.worldelitesumo.com. World Elite Sumo is a professional combat sports league redefining sumo for a global audience. Founded by former top-division sumo wrestler Abdelrahman “Sandstorm” Shalan, WES combines tradition, discipline, and elite athletic performance with modern production, storytelling, and live entertainment.
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Sumo wrestling returns to New Jersey in April
World Elite Sumo (WES) rumbles into Newark, New Jersey's Prudential Center on Saturday, April 18th. Following the sold-out success of Sumo Fight Club at White Eagle Hall (Jersey City, NJ) , WES continues its national expansion with a globally inspired event designed to thrill both longtime combat sports fans and first-time sumo audiences. “Prudential Center is the perfect stage for what we’re building,” said Abdelrahman “Sandstorm” Shalan, founder of WES and world-renowned sumo champion. “We’re honoring the traditions of sumo while presenting it in a fast-paced, modern format that delivers explosive action every single match.” World Elite Sumo brings together top-level athletes from around the world, featuring live taiko drumming, dramatic entrances, and an immersive fight-night production that blends athleticism, intensity, and spectacle. The WES format emphasizes quick, decisive matches with one clear winner every time. WES matches are contested in a best-of-three format, increasing competitive stakes and maintaining a fast, fan-friendly pace.
Athletes compete wearing mandatory fight shorts beneath the traditional mawashi (sumo belt), reflecting modern athletic standards while preserving the heritage of sumo.
“We are thrilled to welcome World Elite Sumo to Prudential Center,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for HBSE/Prudential Center. “As this sport’s fans have witnessed for 1,500+ years, sumo wrestling’s unique combination of strength, athleticism, international talent, and high-energy entertainment will make April 18 an unforgettable night for fans in New Jersey and beyond.”
WES founder Shalan has scoured the globe in search of elite athletes with the strength, speed, skill, and power to compete at the highest level. Recent rosters have included fighters from Japan, Egypt, Brazil, Mongolia, Russia, and the United States, creating a truly international showcase of talent.
Tickets go on sale Friday, February 6th at 10 am ET on PruCenter.com or Ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and the event begins at 7:00 p.m. For more information on WES, visit www.prucenter.com or www.worldelitesumo.com. World Elite Sumo is a professional combat sports league redefining sumo for a global audience. Founded by former top-division sumo wrestler Abdelrahman “Sandstorm” Shalan, WES combines tradition, discipline, and elite athletic performance with modern production, storytelling, and live entertainment.
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Watch: De Leon Castro stops Olguin |
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This past weekend at San Juan's Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot, Puerto Rican junior lightweight Carlos De Leon Castro (7-0, 6 KOs) gave his hometown a sixth-round technical knockout victory over Diuhl Olguin (17-48-7). Olguin is on a 1-16 run, with 14 of those losses coming by decision. “Man, fighting in front of my people in Puerto Rico—there’s no better feeling,” said De Leon Castro, reflecting on the moment. “I could feel their energy pushing me every round. That TKO was for them. I wanted to give them a show they’d never forget.” He also spoke passionately about the career momentum this win brings. “This fight showed what I’m made of. I’m not just climbing the ranks—I’m exploding up them. Every fight is a chance to prove I’m a future world champion. I’m just getting started. I want to be back in the ring as soon as possible. I stay in shape, I stay hungry. Give me a date, and I’ll be ready.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions,said, "Carlos De Leon Castro has the fire, the charisma, and the power to become a household name—especially in Puerto Rico. To deliver that kind of performance in front of his hometown crowd shows maturity beyond his years. These are not just talented fighters…they are the future of the sport.”
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Watch: De Leon Castro stops Olguin
This past weekend at San Juan's Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot, Puerto Rican junior lightweight Carlos De Leon Castro (7-0, 6 KOs) gave his hometown a sixth-round technical knockout victory over Diuhl Olguin (17-48-7). Olguin is on a 1-16 run, with 14 of those losses coming by decision. “Man, fighting in front of my people in Puerto Rico—there’s no better feeling,” said De Leon Castro, reflecting on the moment. “I could feel their energy pushing me every round. That TKO was for them. I wanted to give them a show they’d never forget.” He also spoke passionately about the career momentum this win brings. “This fight showed what I’m made of. I’m not just climbing the ranks—I’m exploding up them. Every fight is a chance to prove I’m a future world champion. I’m just getting started. I want to be back in the ring as soon as possible. I stay in shape, I stay hungry. Give me a date, and I’ll be ready.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions,said, "Carlos De Leon Castro has the fire, the charisma, and the power to become a household name—especially in Puerto Rico. To deliver that kind of performance in front of his hometown crowd shows maturity beyond his years. These are not just talented fighters…they are the future of the sport.”
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Dubois vs. Harper tops all-women show on April 5th |
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Caroline Dubois vs. Terri Harper and Ellie Scotney’s undisputed title fight top an all-women’s TV bill on Sunday April 5th live on Sky Sports. The card at London's Olympia will be Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions first UK event. Dubois takes on British rival Harper in a ten-round unification bout for the WBO and WBC lightweight titles. In the co-feature, unified super bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney (11-0) will face Mexico's WBA titlist Mayelli Flores (13-1-1), in a ten-round undisputed championship clash contested at 122 pounds. Joining the card will be MVP's former undisputed champion, and the only pro fighter to beat Katie Taylor, Chantelle Cameron (21-1). She fights Czech contender Michaela Kotaskova (11-0-4). Cameron vs Kotaskova will be a ten-round championship bout for the WBO 154-pound world title as Cameron aims to win a world championship in a second weight division.
Also on the card, Mexico's IBF super flyweight champion Irma Garcia (25-5-1), will make a ten-round title defense against England's Emma Dolan (8-0). Ticket details will be announced during the kick-off press conference on Friday.
Dubois fights out of London. The 2021 Olympian made her pro debut in February 2022. In August 2024, she won the WBC interim lightweight title, then was elevated to become the WBC lightweight world champion that December. The 25 year-old southpaw successfully defended her title three times in 2025.
Harper, the WBO lightweight champion, fights out of Doncaster. She won the WBC junior lighteight title in 2020. In 2022, Harper moved up four divisions to 154 pounds to win the WBA crown. In September 2024, she moved down to 135 and claimed the WBO lightweight world title. With that win, she became Britain's first three-division women's world champion. Harper made her first title defense at 135 pounds in May of last year.
Scotney is the youngest woman in British boxing history to fight for undisputed, and if she wins, she will become the youngest UK boxer, male or female, in the four-belt era to become undisputed world champion.
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Dubois vs. Harper tops all-women show on April 5th
Caroline Dubois vs. Terri Harper and Ellie Scotney’s undisputed title fight top an all-women’s TV bill on Sunday April 5th live on Sky Sports. The card at London's Olympia will be Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions first UK event. Dubois takes on British rival Harper in a ten-round unification bout for the WBO and WBC lightweight titles. In the co-feature, unified super bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney (11-0) will face Mexico's WBA titlist Mayelli Flores (13-1-1), in a ten-round undisputed championship clash contested at 122 pounds. Joining the card will be MVP's former undisputed champion, and the only pro fighter to beat Katie Taylor, Chantelle Cameron (21-1). She fights Czech contender Michaela Kotaskova (11-0-4). Cameron vs Kotaskova will be a ten-round championship bout for the WBO 154-pound world title as Cameron aims to win a world championship in a second weight division.
Also on the card, Mexico's IBF super flyweight champion Irma Garcia (25-5-1), will make a ten-round title defense against England's Emma Dolan (8-0). Ticket details will be announced during the kick-off press conference on Friday.
Dubois fights out of London. The 2021 Olympian made her pro debut in February 2022. In August 2024, she won the WBC interim lightweight title, then was elevated to become the WBC lightweight world champion that December. The 25 year-old southpaw successfully defended her title three times in 2025.
Harper, the WBO lightweight champion, fights out of Doncaster. She won the WBC junior lighteight title in 2020. In 2022, Harper moved up four divisions to 154 pounds to win the WBA crown. In September 2024, she moved down to 135 and claimed the WBO lightweight world title. With that win, she became Britain's first three-division women's world champion. Harper made her first title defense at 135 pounds in May of last year.
Scotney is the youngest woman in British boxing history to fight for undisputed, and if she wins, she will become the youngest UK boxer, male or female, in the four-belt era to become undisputed world champion.
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Report: Mayweather sues Showtime claiming it sent his money to Haymon... but he doesn't sue Haymon! |
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TMZ Sports reports that retired great Floyd Mayweather Jr. is suing Showtime and its former executive, Stephen Espinoza for $340 million. The lawsuit alleges that for Mayweather's most lucrative fights, including vs. Manny Pacquiao and Conor McGregor, Showtime and Espinoza directed payments to accounts controlled by Mayweather's advisor Al Haymon, instead of to Mayweather himself. What is suspicious about the lawsuit is that Haymon himself was not sued. Should the lawsuit proceed, Haymon would certainly, at the very least, be deposed as a witness by Showtime, if not outright brought into the lawsuit as a third-party defendant.
There are independent signs that Mayweather is experiencing financial difficulties. KSNV reported in September that Mayweather was sued by Vegas Auto Gallery over his alleged failure to pay $1.2 million for a Mercedes G-Class SUV. Earlier in 2025, Mayweather was sued in Florida by a man named Jayson Winer, who claims to have been the victim of a $4 million dollar fraud for taking payments in exchange for introducing Winer to Elon Musk, but then failing to make the introduction. A third lawsuit in Florida accuses Mayweather of failing to make payments to Leonard Sulaymanov and JLZ Consulting after "systematically steal[ing] and convert[ing over $4 million worth of] watches and jewelry to their own, without paying the full and fair price for same all to Plaintiffs’ extreme financial loss."
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Report: Mayweather sues Showtime claiming it sent his money to Haymon... but he doesn't sue Haymon!
TMZ Sports reports that retired great Floyd Mayweather Jr. is suing Showtime and its former executive, Stephen Espinoza for $340 million. The lawsuit alleges that for Mayweather's most lucrative fights, including vs. Manny Pacquiao and Conor McGregor, Showtime and Espinoza directed payments to accounts controlled by Mayweather's advisor Al Haymon, instead of to Mayweather himself. What is suspicious about the lawsuit is that Haymon himself was not sued. Should the lawsuit proceed, Haymon would certainly, at the very least, be deposed as a witness by Showtime, if not outright brought into the lawsuit as a third-party defendant.
There are independent signs that Mayweather is experiencing financial difficulties. KSNV reported in September that Mayweather was sued by Vegas Auto Gallery over his alleged failure to pay $1.2 million for a Mercedes G-Class SUV. Earlier in 2025, Mayweather was sued in Florida by a man named Jayson Winer, who claims to have been the victim of a $4 million dollar fraud for taking payments in exchange for introducing Winer to Elon Musk, but then failing to make the introduction. A third lawsuit in Florida accuses Mayweather of failing to make payments to Leonard Sulaymanov and JLZ Consulting after "systematically steal[ing] and convert[ing over $4 million worth of] watches and jewelry to their own, without paying the full and fair price for same all to Plaintiffs’ extreme financial loss."
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Stevenson and Roach show mutual respect |
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World junior welterweight champion Shakur Stevenson (pictured) on X: "Just rewatched my fight, Teo [Teofimo Lopez] is a really good fighter, great boxing skills. I just made him look that way [overmatched] because of my skills but other guys wouldn’t make him look like that! My jab, my defense, my IQ. I’m just on another level out of this world. Also my ability to capture the moment is underrated. A lot of guys get under the bright lights and crumble. But I’m build for moments like that."
WBC interim lightweight champion Lamont Roach: "Obviously the best fight at 135 pounds is me vs Shakur Stevenson! Whether it’s next or not, [it] will be great that night. Salute champ, you a bad man!
Stevenson: "Yesssir bro U is too. Respect for not moving like a goofy for clout... [salute] We gonna make it happen for sure!! May the best man win."
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Stevenson and Roach show mutual respect
World junior welterweight champion Shakur Stevenson (pictured) on X: "Just rewatched my fight, Teo [Teofimo Lopez] is a really good fighter, great boxing skills. I just made him look that way [overmatched] because of my skills but other guys wouldn’t make him look like that! My jab, my defense, my IQ. I’m just on another level out of this world. Also my ability to capture the moment is underrated. A lot of guys get under the bright lights and crumble. But I’m build for moments like that."
WBC interim lightweight champion Lamont Roach: "Obviously the best fight at 135 pounds is me vs Shakur Stevenson! Whether it’s next or not, [it] will be great that night. Salute champ, you a bad man!
Stevenson: "Yesssir bro U is too. Respect for not moving like a goofy for clout... [salute] We gonna make it happen for sure!! May the best man win."
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Lauren Price books next title defense |
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Lauren Price will defend her world welterweight championship against Stephanie Pineiro Aquino on Saturday, April 4th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff. This event, presented by Boxxer, will be broadcast live and free-to-air on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. Also an Olympic champion, Price (9-0, 2 KOs) can already stake her claim as one of Wales’ most decorated athletes of all time having excelled not only in boxing, but also kickboxing and football.
At the 2021 Tokyo Olympics she became the first boxer from Wales and only the second ever female from Great Britain to win a gold medal, and as a professional Price became Wales’ first ever female world champion when defeating former undisputed champion Jessica McCaskill. Most recently, the 31 year-old Price triumphed over Natasha Jonas in a landmark bout at the Royal Albert Hall to unify the lineal championship plus three of the four major belts. Price has since been calling for a fight with WBO ruler Mikaela Mayer.
Before Price-Mayer is possible, Price must first overcome her mandatory challenger Stephanie Pineiro Aquino (10-0, 3 KOs). Aquino is the reigning WBA interim welterweight titlist. Known as ‘The Medicine’, Aquino has been tipped as the latest boxing star from Puerto Rico following in the footsteps of famous fighting sisters Amanda and Cindy Serrano. Aquino can expect a lively reception in Cardiff as Price fights at home in Wales for the first time since her historic win over McCaskill in 2024.
Lauren Price MBE said: “Defending my world titles at home in Wales means everything to me. I want to repay the support everyone has shown me with another great performance. I never turn down a challenge. Stephanie Pineiro Aquino is a dangerous fighter, but nothing is going to stop me from getting my hand raised on April 4 in Cardiff. Yma o hyd.”
Stephanie Pineiro Aquino said: “I respect everything Lauren Price has achieved, but I have worked all my life for this moment and I am ready to show I am the best in the world. Lauren may have the home fans on her side, but I have a country behind me too. I am coming to take those belts back to Puerto Rico.”
Boxxer founder & CEO Ben Shalom said: “Lauren Price is not just a world champion, she is a Welsh sporting icon and one of the greatest athletes the country has ever produced. To bring a huge world title defence home to Cardiff for her, live on BBC Two, is something we’re incredibly proud of. This is a serious test against a top-class opponent but these are exactly the nights Lauren thrives on. April 4 will be another massive moment for her.”
Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, said: “Lauren Price has the potential to become one of biggest stars in British sport, and we are excited to showcase another landmark moment in her remarkable journey. The BBC is proud to continue its commitment to showcasing women’s boxing at the very highest level, and this is a huge moment both for Lauren and for the sport. Bringing a world title defence of this magnitude to a free-to-air, national audience on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer underlines our mission to make the very best boxing accessible to everyone.”
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Lauren Price books next title defense
Lauren Price will defend her world welterweight championship against Stephanie Pineiro Aquino on Saturday, April 4th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff. This event, presented by Boxxer, will be broadcast live and free-to-air on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. Also an Olympic champion, Price (9-0, 2 KOs) can already stake her claim as one of Wales’ most decorated athletes of all time having excelled not only in boxing, but also kickboxing and football.
At the 2021 Tokyo Olympics she became the first boxer from Wales and only the second ever female from Great Britain to win a gold medal, and as a professional Price became Wales’ first ever female world champion when defeating former undisputed champion Jessica McCaskill. Most recently, the 31 year-old Price triumphed over Natasha Jonas in a landmark bout at the Royal Albert Hall to unify the lineal championship plus three of the four major belts. Price has since been calling for a fight with WBO ruler Mikaela Mayer.
Before Price-Mayer is possible, Price must first overcome her mandatory challenger Stephanie Pineiro Aquino (10-0, 3 KOs). Aquino is the reigning WBA interim welterweight titlist. Known as ‘The Medicine’, Aquino has been tipped as the latest boxing star from Puerto Rico following in the footsteps of famous fighting sisters Amanda and Cindy Serrano. Aquino can expect a lively reception in Cardiff as Price fights at home in Wales for the first time since her historic win over McCaskill in 2024.
Lauren Price MBE said: “Defending my world titles at home in Wales means everything to me. I want to repay the support everyone has shown me with another great performance. I never turn down a challenge. Stephanie Pineiro Aquino is a dangerous fighter, but nothing is going to stop me from getting my hand raised on April 4 in Cardiff. Yma o hyd.”
Stephanie Pineiro Aquino said: “I respect everything Lauren Price has achieved, but I have worked all my life for this moment and I am ready to show I am the best in the world. Lauren may have the home fans on her side, but I have a country behind me too. I am coming to take those belts back to Puerto Rico.”
Boxxer founder & CEO Ben Shalom said: “Lauren Price is not just a world champion, she is a Welsh sporting icon and one of the greatest athletes the country has ever produced. To bring a huge world title defence home to Cardiff for her, live on BBC Two, is something we’re incredibly proud of. This is a serious test against a top-class opponent but these are exactly the nights Lauren thrives on. April 4 will be another massive moment for her.”
Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, said: “Lauren Price has the potential to become one of biggest stars in British sport, and we are excited to showcase another landmark moment in her remarkable journey. The BBC is proud to continue its commitment to showcasing women’s boxing at the very highest level, and this is a huge moment both for Lauren and for the sport. Bringing a world title defence of this magnitude to a free-to-air, national audience on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer underlines our mission to make the very best boxing accessible to everyone.”
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Spotlight on Fundora vs. Thurman |
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WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will be looking to continue his reign against former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in a clash that headlines a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, March 28th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Fundora and Thurman were originally scheduled to meet last October, before Fundora suffered a hand contusion in sparring. Thurman can boost his potential Hall of Fame credentials by reaching the top of a second weight class. For tickets to the show, public on-sale begins on Thursday, February 5th at 10 a.m. PT through AXS.com. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.
“Sebastian Fundora is can’t-miss action every time he steps into the ring, and he’s highly-motivated to put on a show yet again against one of this era’s premier champions in Keith Thurman,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fundora and Thurman have been gearing up to square off for months and will finally go toe-to-toe on March 28 in Las Vegas headlining this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video, with the winner in pole position to claim the throne as the super welterweight king. Fundora’s non-stop pressure against Thurman’s heavy hands and skills are perfect ingredients for tense drama right from the opening bell.”
“Sebastian is 100% ready to return to the ring,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “This is a tough fight and Sebastian doesn’t underestimate any opponent, especially not a great former champion like Keith Thurman. I’m looking forward to Sebastian putting on another exciting performance to further establish himself as the best super welterweight in the world today.”
Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs) first rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division by dethroning Tim Tszyu via decision in 2024’s bloodiest fight, earning both the WBC and WBO titles. After defending his belts with a knockout of Chordale Booker in March of last year, Fundora put his WBC belt back on the line in a July rematch against Tszyu. This time, Fundora closed the show in style, dropping Tszyu in the first round before forcing an end to the bout after round seven. A native of Coachella, California, Fundora notably showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in a Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. The 28-year-old has defeated a slew of contenders throughout his career, with his only defeat coming to Brian Mendoza in 2023. Standing nearly six-feet, six-inches, Fundora represents one of boxing’s most accomplished families, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, undisputed flyweight world champion Gabriela. The two fighting Fundora’s are the first brother and sister to simultaneously hold world championships.
“Camp is going great,” said Fundora. “Saturday, March 28th is going to be an exciting night for boxing fans with Sebastian ‘The Towering Inferno’ Fundora taking over Las Vegas once again.”
Clearwater, Florida’s Thurman (31-1, 23 KOs) has assembled an impressive resume, having defeated former champions Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero in high-profile clashes, unifying the WBA and WBC titles against Garcia in a rare unification bout between undefeated welterweight champions. Thurman’s only blemish came in 2019 against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, with Thurman ending up on the wrong side of a narrow split-decision. Thurman bounced back against the now reigning WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario Barrios by winning a unanimous decision in February 2022. He was set to face Australian superstar Tim Tszyu in March 2024 before being forced to withdraw due to injury, eventually returning to the ring last March with a third-round stoppage of Brock Jarvis.
“I picked up my first pair of gloves 30 years ago, and somehow I’m still hungry for more,” said Thurman. “On March 28th I have the opportunity to become world champion again and write my comeback story. I may be up against ‘The Towering Inferno’, but every cell in my body knows he’s not on my level. What I plan to do will be historical. This is a classic matchup of old school vs. new school, and it’s one fight fans don’t want to miss. I’m ready to rumble!”
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Spotlight on Fundora vs. Thurman
WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will be looking to continue his reign against former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in a clash that headlines a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, March 28th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Fundora and Thurman were originally scheduled to meet last October, before Fundora suffered a hand contusion in sparring. Thurman can boost his potential Hall of Fame credentials by reaching the top of a second weight class. For tickets to the show, public on-sale begins on Thursday, February 5th at 10 a.m. PT through AXS.com. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.
“Sebastian Fundora is can’t-miss action every time he steps into the ring, and he’s highly-motivated to put on a show yet again against one of this era’s premier champions in Keith Thurman,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fundora and Thurman have been gearing up to square off for months and will finally go toe-to-toe on March 28 in Las Vegas headlining this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video, with the winner in pole position to claim the throne as the super welterweight king. Fundora’s non-stop pressure against Thurman’s heavy hands and skills are perfect ingredients for tense drama right from the opening bell.”
“Sebastian is 100% ready to return to the ring,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “This is a tough fight and Sebastian doesn’t underestimate any opponent, especially not a great former champion like Keith Thurman. I’m looking forward to Sebastian putting on another exciting performance to further establish himself as the best super welterweight in the world today.”
Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs) first rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division by dethroning Tim Tszyu via decision in 2024’s bloodiest fight, earning both the WBC and WBO titles. After defending his belts with a knockout of Chordale Booker in March of last year, Fundora put his WBC belt back on the line in a July rematch against Tszyu. This time, Fundora closed the show in style, dropping Tszyu in the first round before forcing an end to the bout after round seven. A native of Coachella, California, Fundora notably showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in a Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. The 28-year-old has defeated a slew of contenders throughout his career, with his only defeat coming to Brian Mendoza in 2023. Standing nearly six-feet, six-inches, Fundora represents one of boxing’s most accomplished families, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, undisputed flyweight world champion Gabriela. The two fighting Fundora’s are the first brother and sister to simultaneously hold world championships.
“Camp is going great,” said Fundora. “Saturday, March 28th is going to be an exciting night for boxing fans with Sebastian ‘The Towering Inferno’ Fundora taking over Las Vegas once again.”
Clearwater, Florida’s Thurman (31-1, 23 KOs) has assembled an impressive resume, having defeated former champions Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero in high-profile clashes, unifying the WBA and WBC titles against Garcia in a rare unification bout between undefeated welterweight champions. Thurman’s only blemish came in 2019 against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, with Thurman ending up on the wrong side of a narrow split-decision. Thurman bounced back against the now reigning WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario Barrios by winning a unanimous decision in February 2022. He was set to face Australian superstar Tim Tszyu in March 2024 before being forced to withdraw due to injury, eventually returning to the ring last March with a third-round stoppage of Brock Jarvis.
“I picked up my first pair of gloves 30 years ago, and somehow I’m still hungry for more,” said Thurman. “On March 28th I have the opportunity to become world champion again and write my comeback story. I may be up against ‘The Towering Inferno’, but every cell in my body knows he’s not on my level. What I plan to do will be historical. This is a classic matchup of old school vs. new school, and it’s one fight fans don’t want to miss. I’m ready to rumble!”
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Battle of unbeatens added to Saturday's Rhode Island show |
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Stamford, Connecticut middleweight Douglas “El Uno” Marroquin (8-0, 5 KOs) will step into the spotlight on February 7th when he faces fellow unbeaten Rufus Macauley (4-0, 3 KOs) in the co-feature of CES Boxing’s Winter Brawl 2026 at the Historic Park Theater in Cranston, Rhode Island. Limited tickets to Winter Brawl 2026 remain – purchase yours now at CES Fights. The 27 year-old Marroquin, who trains at Wilmer Mendez Boxing under former pro boxer Wilmer Mendez, has steadily built momentum since turning professional. Marroquin combinines an aggressive inside fighting style with a growing reputation as a fan-friendly boxer. “I try to give people something to remember,” said the half-Mexican, half-Guatemalan Marroquin. “I love performing. I love the drama, and I love to fight.”
At 5-foot-6, Marroquin is often the smaller man at middleweight, a reality that has shaped his pressure-oriented approach. “I’m the shortest middleweight out there,” he said. “So my style is always on the inside, working the body. But I’m not just a brawler — I picked up footwork from sparring with Cuban boxers when I lived in Miami. I bring a little bit of everything.”
Marroquin’s opponent, the 5-foot-11 Macauley, previously competed at super middleweight and light heavyweight before settling in at 160 pounds, creating a clear contrast in size and style when the two undefeated fighters meet.
Unfazed, Marroquin says he prepares for situations rather than specific opponents. “I’ve been in fights where I didn’t know who I was fighting until the weigh-in,” he said. “So I prepare mentally, physically, and spiritually. As a professional, you have to figure things out quickly.”
Marroquin began boxing at 19 after a turbulent upbringing split between Stamford and Guatemala. He credits the sport with providing discipline and direction, highlighted by his Western New England Golden Gloves title in 2023 before turning professional the following year.
Now unbeaten through eight professional bouts, Marroquin believes his development is accelerating. “I watch my first pro fight now and it’s night and day,” he said. “That’s how I know I’m going somewhere.”
The February 7th bout offers local fans a short trip to Rhode Island to see one of Stamford’s rising boxing talents test himself against another unbeaten boxer. “I’m prepared for anything,” Marroquin said. “Now it’s time to perform.”
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Battle of unbeatens added to Saturday's Rhode Island show
Stamford, Connecticut middleweight Douglas “El Uno” Marroquin (8-0, 5 KOs) will step into the spotlight on February 7th when he faces fellow unbeaten Rufus Macauley (4-0, 3 KOs) in the co-feature of CES Boxing’s Winter Brawl 2026 at the Historic Park Theater in Cranston, Rhode Island. Limited tickets to Winter Brawl 2026 remain – purchase yours now at CES Fights. The 27 year-old Marroquin, who trains at Wilmer Mendez Boxing under former pro boxer Wilmer Mendez, has steadily built momentum since turning professional. Marroquin combinines an aggressive inside fighting style with a growing reputation as a fan-friendly boxer. “I try to give people something to remember,” said the half-Mexican, half-Guatemalan Marroquin. “I love performing. I love the drama, and I love to fight.”
At 5-foot-6, Marroquin is often the smaller man at middleweight, a reality that has shaped his pressure-oriented approach. “I’m the shortest middleweight out there,” he said. “So my style is always on the inside, working the body. But I’m not just a brawler — I picked up footwork from sparring with Cuban boxers when I lived in Miami. I bring a little bit of everything.”
Marroquin’s opponent, the 5-foot-11 Macauley, previously competed at super middleweight and light heavyweight before settling in at 160 pounds, creating a clear contrast in size and style when the two undefeated fighters meet.
Unfazed, Marroquin says he prepares for situations rather than specific opponents. “I’ve been in fights where I didn’t know who I was fighting until the weigh-in,” he said. “So I prepare mentally, physically, and spiritually. As a professional, you have to figure things out quickly.”
Marroquin began boxing at 19 after a turbulent upbringing split between Stamford and Guatemala. He credits the sport with providing discipline and direction, highlighted by his Western New England Golden Gloves title in 2023 before turning professional the following year.
Now unbeaten through eight professional bouts, Marroquin believes his development is accelerating. “I watch my first pro fight now and it’s night and day,” he said. “That’s how I know I’m going somewhere.”
The February 7th bout offers local fans a short trip to Rhode Island to see one of Stamford’s rising boxing talents test himself against another unbeaten boxer. “I’m prepared for anything,” Marroquin said. “Now it’s time to perform.”
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A few words with middleweight Euri Cedeno |
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This past weekend in San Juan, Puerto Rico at the Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot, middleweight Euri Cedeno (14-0-1, 12 KOs) of the Dominican Republic delivered a dominant victory. Cedeno turned in a flawless performance, earning a ten-round unanimous decision win and sweeping the scorecards 100-88 across the board. From the opening bell, Cedeno, who is co-promoted by Boxlab Promotions and King's Promotions, controlled every exchange and left no doubt about the outcome of the bout in the minds of judges or fans.
Speaking after the fight, Cedeno beamed with confidence. “I came in and sent a message to the entire middleweight division. I wanted to prove that I’m not just another fighter—I’m a force at 160 pounds. From start to finish, I controlled the pace and the ring. This fight wasn’t just about adding another win to the record…it was about showing I’m ready to step up and take on the big names.”
On the impact this victory has for his trajectory, Cedeno added, “I feel like this fight proves I belong on the world stage. I'm not just a prospect—I'm a contender in the making. Wins like these open doors, and I'm ready to walk through them.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, added, “Euri Cedeno is the complete package—technically refined, mentally focused, and physically dominant. What he did in that ring was masterclass boxing. He’s not far from making noise on the world level."
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A few words with middleweight Euri Cedeno
This past weekend in San Juan, Puerto Rico at the Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot, middleweight Euri Cedeno (14-0-1, 12 KOs) of the Dominican Republic delivered a dominant victory. Cedeno turned in a flawless performance, earning a ten-round unanimous decision win and sweeping the scorecards 100-88 across the board. From the opening bell, Cedeno, who is co-promoted by Boxlab Promotions and King's Promotions, controlled every exchange and left no doubt about the outcome of the bout in the minds of judges or fans.
Speaking after the fight, Cedeno beamed with confidence. “I came in and sent a message to the entire middleweight division. I wanted to prove that I’m not just another fighter—I’m a force at 160 pounds. From start to finish, I controlled the pace and the ring. This fight wasn’t just about adding another win to the record…it was about showing I’m ready to step up and take on the big names.”
On the impact this victory has for his trajectory, Cedeno added, “I feel like this fight proves I belong on the world stage. I'm not just a prospect—I'm a contender in the making. Wins like these open doors, and I'm ready to walk through them.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, added, “Euri Cedeno is the complete package—technically refined, mentally focused, and physically dominant. What he did in that ring was masterclass boxing. He’s not far from making noise on the world level."
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