Fundora stops Thurman in six |
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Sebastian Fundora TKO6 Headlining a PBC on Amazon Prime PPV event at the MGM Grand Garden Areana in Las Vegas, “The Towering Inferno” Sebastian Fundora successfully defended his WBC junior middleweight crown with a dominant performance against former welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman. The champion, 153.6 lbs., applied pressure from the start, increasing his punch output with each passing round. Thurman, of Clearwater, FL, spent much of the contest on his toes circling the ring, having difficulty getting inside Fundora’s 11-inch reach advantage. The six-foot-five Fundora, of Coachella, CA, literally towered over the five-foot-eight former unified 147lb. world champion. A welterweight for most of his career, Thurman, who weighed 152.6 lbs. tonight, moved up to 154 pounds in March 2025, following three years of inactivity.
A grazing right hand from Fundora caught Thurman off-guard in round two, causing him to stumble into the ropes. By the fourth, Fundora was digging hooks to the body. A barrage of punches in the fifth frame staggered the 37-year-old Thurman, whose face was visibly showing damage. The Tony Morgan-trained Thurman’s best chances came when Fundora closed the gap to land his own power shots. Much of Thurman’s offensive attempts were wild swings, hoping to catch the champion with his hands down. In the sixth, Fundora set out to end the contest with a sustained attack of combinations upstairs and to the body. A final volley of heavy leather prompted the referee to end the contest at the 1:17 mark of the stanza. Suffering his first defeat inside the distance, Thurman saw his record dip to 31-2 (23 KOs).
Making the third defense of his WBC crown, Fundora improved to 24-1-1 (16 KOs). He was stripped of the WBO title last May when he opted to go ahead with a rematch against Tim Tszyu rather than take on his mandatory Xander Zayas, who now holds the WBO and WBA 154lb. world title belts.
“We've been working very hard for this fight. I told [Thurman] that I've always looked up to him. He's a Hall-of-Famer for sure. I take my hat off to him. That's why I had to train so hard to prove to the world that I'm the best at 154,” said Fundora.
“I've fought in these high class fights that have allowed me to mature and grow. I've continued to strive for greatness and now I'm here. There's all kinds of big names. 154 is the best division right now. Whoever wants it next can get it.”
Thurman, who was highly critical of referee Thomas Taylor’s stoppage, said, “The fight was getting really good. The fans were loving the action and the referee stopped the fight too early. They don't have the guts to let the fights go on like the Erik Morales days. He talked to me and said if I was moving my feet he wouldn't stop the fight. I wasn't on the ropes taking shots. It was very unfortunate to not give the fans a better show. Win, lose, or draw, I thought it was a little bit premature. I had more in me.
“It was a lot of fun. Sebastian definitely came in shape. He throws a lot of punches. The uppercut that caught me and cut me was an awkward punch that I've never been hit with before. The man brings it. He's a tremendous champion, and I can lift my head up high knowing I was defeated by a great young fighter.”
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Fundora stops Thurman in six
Sebastian Fundora TKO6 Headlining a PBC on Amazon Prime PPV event at the MGM Grand Garden Areana in Las Vegas, “The Towering Inferno” Sebastian Fundora successfully defended his WBC junior middleweight crown with a dominant performance against former welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman. The champion, 153.6 lbs., applied pressure from the start, increasing his punch output with each passing round. Thurman, of Clearwater, FL, spent much of the contest on his toes circling the ring, having difficulty getting inside Fundora’s 11-inch reach advantage. The six-foot-five Fundora, of Coachella, CA, literally towered over the five-foot-eight former unified 147lb. world champion. A welterweight for most of his career, Thurman, who weighed 152.6 lbs. tonight, moved up to 154 pounds in March 2025, following three years of inactivity.
A grazing right hand from Fundora caught Thurman off-guard in round two, causing him to stumble into the ropes. By the fourth, Fundora was digging hooks to the body. A barrage of punches in the fifth frame staggered the 37-year-old Thurman, whose face was visibly showing damage. The Tony Morgan-trained Thurman’s best chances came when Fundora closed the gap to land his own power shots. Much of Thurman’s offensive attempts were wild swings, hoping to catch the champion with his hands down. In the sixth, Fundora set out to end the contest with a sustained attack of combinations upstairs and to the body. A final volley of heavy leather prompted the referee to end the contest at the 1:17 mark of the stanza. Suffering his first defeat inside the distance, Thurman saw his record dip to 31-2 (23 KOs).
Making the third defense of his WBC crown, Fundora improved to 24-1-1 (16 KOs). He was stripped of the WBO title last May when he opted to go ahead with a rematch against Tim Tszyu rather than take on his mandatory Xander Zayas, who now holds the WBO and WBA 154lb. world title belts.
“We've been working very hard for this fight. I told [Thurman] that I've always looked up to him. He's a Hall-of-Famer for sure. I take my hat off to him. That's why I had to train so hard to prove to the world that I'm the best at 154,” said Fundora.
“I've fought in these high class fights that have allowed me to mature and grow. I've continued to strive for greatness and now I'm here. There's all kinds of big names. 154 is the best division right now. Whoever wants it next can get it.”
Thurman, who was highly critical of referee Thomas Taylor’s stoppage, said, “The fight was getting really good. The fans were loving the action and the referee stopped the fight too early. They don't have the guts to let the fights go on like the Erik Morales days. He talked to me and said if I was moving my feet he wouldn't stop the fight. I wasn't on the ropes taking shots. It was very unfortunate to not give the fans a better show. Win, lose, or draw, I thought it was a little bit premature. I had more in me.
“It was a lot of fun. Sebastian definitely came in shape. He throws a lot of punches. The uppercut that caught me and cut me was an awkward punch that I've never been hit with before. The man brings it. He's a tremendous champion, and I can lift my head up high knowing I was defeated by a great young fighter.”
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Cubans invade Vegas: Wins for Hernandez and Tellez |
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Yoenis Tellez W10 Brian Mendoza... In the PBC co-feature at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the Hector Bermudez-trained Yoenis “El Bandolero” Tellez, of Santiago de Cuba, overcame a stern test from veteran Brian Mendoza of Las Vegas to earn a well-deserved ten-round unanimous decision. The junior middleweight contest opened with both fighters employing a tactical approach, finding openings to land their jab-straight right combinations. Then, in round three, an accidental clash of heads badly hurt Tellez, who dropped to a knee in agony. He took a long time to recover and it looked like the fight might end prematurely in a ‘No Contest’. However, the Cuban prodigy, 153.8 lbs., found the strength to push through the pain and continue and the tenor of the fight shifted to back-and-forth action. Tellez fought back well and was particularly effecting landing his overhand right.
In a thrilling seventh round, the Rich Barrientes-trained Mendoza, 153.2 lbs., pressed the action and looked like he would change the momentum of the bout, though Tellez was perfectly willing to exchange power shots. Despite suffering a cut over his left eye in the eighth, Mendoza, a former interim WBC titlist who handed Fundora his lone defeat, remained game as he continued to apply relentless pressure. Tellez closed strong finding his target with several eye-catching flush right hands.
With tallies of 97-93 twice, and a very generous 98-92, Tellez improved to 12-1 (8 KOs). A veteran of 150 amateur bouts, Tellez seized the vacant interim WBA super welterweight title last March but lost it five months later to Abass Barou.
Commenting on the severity of the third-round headbutt, Tellez said, “My corner lifted me up and they got me back into the fight. When you're a warrior, you don't show any weakness, but I had trouble breathing, there's no doubt. The pain was a 10 out of 10, but I'm a warrior and my corner told me I had the courage and that I could get this win. The biggest thing was that I had to be aware not to get hit in the nose. I definitely had to think about it. I had to think more and focus on my defense.”
“There's nothing I can do about the decision,” lamented the 23-5 (17 KOs) Mendoza, “but I definitely thought I was way more in the fight. I honestly thought I took it in a close fight. He kept trying to switch to smother me and that's how the headbutt happened. It was just because of him switching. We stay ready. This was on three-weeks notice, so Imagine with a full camp. We're going to keep pushing forward and see what the team has for me.”
Yoenli Hernandez TKO4 Terrell Gausha... Yoenli Hernandez, 158.4 lbs., A Cuban based out of Providence, Rhode Island, easily defeated two-time title challenger Terrell Gausha, of Encino, California, over four one-sided rounds. Midway through the fourth frame, Gausha took an overhand right around his guard leading to a sudden and quick stoppage by the referee at the 1:17 mark. Gausha offered little offense while sustaining heavy artillery from the Cuban throughout the contest. Hernandez's professional record is now 10-0 with 9 KOs. As an amateur, Hernandez captured gold at the 2021 AIBA World Boxing Championships in Serbia and the 2023 IBA World Boxing Championships in Uzbekistan. The 38 year-old Gausha, who came in overweight at 160.8 lbs., lost his first fight inside the distance and left the arena at 24-6-1 with 12 KOs.
“I was breaking him down so I just wanted to turn it up a little more each round. The intensity was rising and my shots were getting harder,” said Hernandez. “People can say what they want about the stoppage, maybe they're right. But it was only going to get worse. I'm ready for any of the big names at middleweight. I want every one of them. Line them up, I'll be ready.”
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Cubans invade Vegas: Wins for Hernandez and Tellez
Yoenis Tellez W10 Brian Mendoza... In the PBC co-feature at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the Hector Bermudez-trained Yoenis “El Bandolero” Tellez, of Santiago de Cuba, overcame a stern test from veteran Brian Mendoza of Las Vegas to earn a well-deserved ten-round unanimous decision. The junior middleweight contest opened with both fighters employing a tactical approach, finding openings to land their jab-straight right combinations. Then, in round three, an accidental clash of heads badly hurt Tellez, who dropped to a knee in agony. He took a long time to recover and it looked like the fight might end prematurely in a ‘No Contest’. However, the Cuban prodigy, 153.8 lbs., found the strength to push through the pain and continue and the tenor of the fight shifted to back-and-forth action. Tellez fought back well and was particularly effecting landing his overhand right.
In a thrilling seventh round, the Rich Barrientes-trained Mendoza, 153.2 lbs., pressed the action and looked like he would change the momentum of the bout, though Tellez was perfectly willing to exchange power shots. Despite suffering a cut over his left eye in the eighth, Mendoza, a former interim WBC titlist who handed Fundora his lone defeat, remained game as he continued to apply relentless pressure. Tellez closed strong finding his target with several eye-catching flush right hands.
With tallies of 97-93 twice, and a very generous 98-92, Tellez improved to 12-1 (8 KOs). A veteran of 150 amateur bouts, Tellez seized the vacant interim WBA super welterweight title last March but lost it five months later to Abass Barou.
Commenting on the severity of the third-round headbutt, Tellez said, “My corner lifted me up and they got me back into the fight. When you're a warrior, you don't show any weakness, but I had trouble breathing, there's no doubt. The pain was a 10 out of 10, but I'm a warrior and my corner told me I had the courage and that I could get this win. The biggest thing was that I had to be aware not to get hit in the nose. I definitely had to think about it. I had to think more and focus on my defense.”
“There's nothing I can do about the decision,” lamented the 23-5 (17 KOs) Mendoza, “but I definitely thought I was way more in the fight. I honestly thought I took it in a close fight. He kept trying to switch to smother me and that's how the headbutt happened. It was just because of him switching. We stay ready. This was on three-weeks notice, so Imagine with a full camp. We're going to keep pushing forward and see what the team has for me.”
Yoenli Hernandez TKO4 Terrell Gausha... Yoenli Hernandez, 158.4 lbs., A Cuban based out of Providence, Rhode Island, easily defeated two-time title challenger Terrell Gausha, of Encino, California, over four one-sided rounds. Midway through the fourth frame, Gausha took an overhand right around his guard leading to a sudden and quick stoppage by the referee at the 1:17 mark. Gausha offered little offense while sustaining heavy artillery from the Cuban throughout the contest. Hernandez's professional record is now 10-0 with 9 KOs. As an amateur, Hernandez captured gold at the 2021 AIBA World Boxing Championships in Serbia and the 2023 IBA World Boxing Championships in Uzbekistan. The 38 year-old Gausha, who came in overweight at 160.8 lbs., lost his first fight inside the distance and left the arena at 24-6-1 with 12 KOs.
“I was breaking him down so I just wanted to turn it up a little more each round. The intensity was rising and my shots were getting harder,” said Hernandez. “People can say what they want about the stoppage, maybe they're right. But it was only going to get worse. I'm ready for any of the big names at middleweight. I want every one of them. Line them up, I'll be ready.”
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PBC undercard results from Las Vegas |
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Gurgen Hovhannisyan TKO5 Cesar Navarro... Six-foot-seven Armenian heavyweight Gurgen “Big Gug” Hovhannisyan, 281.4 lbs., of Los Angeles, stalked and slowly brown down Cesar Navarro, 210.2 lbs., of Phoenix, en route to a fifth-round stoppage victory. Consistently circling the ring, southpaw Navarro did his best to keep his adversary from imposing his will, but nothing he landed deterred the hulking Hovhannisyan. In the fifth, a barrage of heavy leather staggered Navarro into the red corner and the Joe Goossen-trained Armenian didn’t let up until the referee halted the action at 2:45 of the round. Hovhannisyan upped his record to 10-0 (9 KOs). Suffering his first loss by knockout, Navarro’s record dropped to 15-4 (13 KOs). Hovhannisyan had an amateur record of 110-20 before his September 2021 pro debut.
“This was my first time fighting in Las Vegas. I was out for a while with some injuries and now I'm back on the big stage where I want to be,” said Hovhannisyan. “First round I was just being patient. He's a smart boxer who's very fast. I started to press him and break him down round by round. Every fight with Joe, he tells me which round to finish my opponent. After the fourth round I came to my corner and he said this is the round. I thought it might take longer, but it was exactly what Joe said.”
Kevin Newman W10 Elijah Garcia... In Las Vegas, local light heavyweight Kevin “The Second Coming” Newman II engaged 22-year-old southpaw Elijah Garcia, of Phoenix, AZ, over ten fast-paced and competitive rounds. Newman prevailed by majority decision. Both fighters weighed 171.4 lbs. A pro boxer since age 16, Garcia was the aggressor for much of the bout while Newman II, who is trained by Roy Jones Jr., focused on counter punching. Garcia appeared to be the busier fighter early on, but Newman II picked up the pace, landing effective volleys over the second half. A tally of 95-95 was overruled by scorecards of 98-92 and 96-94 in favor of Newman. Keeping the winning streak going, now eight in a row, Newman II improved to 19-3-1 (11 KOs). Suffering a second close points loss in his last three bouts, Garcia, once ranked in the top ten by all four major sanctioning bodies, dipped to 17-2 (13 KOs).
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Brayan Gonzalez, 125 lbs., a 20-year-old super bantamweight southpaw and Junior Olympics silver medalist, out of Phoenix, outboxed Brandon Medina en route to a stoppage victory. Following a sustained attack, the referee felt Medina, 124.6 lbs., of Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico, had taken too much punishment and stepped in at Gonzalez upped his record to 5-0 (4 KOs), while Medina left the ring at 7-5.
Trained by his father Jayson Gallegos, 20-year-old Filipino-Hawaiian-American Kaipo Gallegos, 134.8 lbs., of Las Vegas, NV, survived a third-round knockdown to earn a hard-fought ten-round unanimous decision against Julian Gonzalez, 134.2 lbs., of Reading, PA. Scorecards read 98-91, 97-92 twice, all for Gallegos, now 12-0-1 (9 KOs). Gonzalez’s record fell to 16-2-1 (12 KOs). Gallegos was an 18-time National champion as an amateur.
Robert Guerrero Jr., 134.6 lbs., the 19-year-old son of former champion Robert Guerrero, of Las Vegas, NV, earned a close four-round unanimous decision against Rigoberto Rivera, of Edinburg, TX. Rivera, 134.2 lbs., was decked in the second, but he fought back well over the last two frames. Scorecards read 39-36 twice, and 38-37, all for Guerrero, now 8-0 (3 KOs). Rivera’s record evened out at 3-3 (1 KO).
In his first ten-rounder Italy’s Cristian Cangelosi, 154.8 lbs., based out of Brooklyn, NY, battled to a draw against Miguel Angel Hernandez, 155.2 lbs., of Dallas, TX, to open up the Fundora-Thurman event held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas. Cangelosi boxed well in the early frames, finding success with his overhand right. Hernandez adjusted and began to time Cangelosi’s advances. Born in Palermo, Sicilia, Italy, the 27-year-old Cangelosi, now 12-0-1 (5 KOs), is promoted by Danny Garcia’s Swift Promotions and managed by Chris Gilmore Jr. and Zach Margules, of Fide Management Group. A member of the Italian National team as an amateur, Cangelosi comes from a fighting family as his father and brother were also boxers. Having lived in Brooklyn since 2017, Cangelosi was mentored by Paulie Malignaggi early on in his career. Hernandez, who was coming off of a majority decision loss to Joey Spencer in December 2024, saw his record move to 9-1-1 (7 KOs).
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PBC undercard results from Las Vegas
Gurgen Hovhannisyan TKO5 Cesar Navarro... Six-foot-seven Armenian heavyweight Gurgen “Big Gug” Hovhannisyan, 281.4 lbs., of Los Angeles, stalked and slowly brown down Cesar Navarro, 210.2 lbs., of Phoenix, en route to a fifth-round stoppage victory. Consistently circling the ring, southpaw Navarro did his best to keep his adversary from imposing his will, but nothing he landed deterred the hulking Hovhannisyan. In the fifth, a barrage of heavy leather staggered Navarro into the red corner and the Joe Goossen-trained Armenian didn’t let up until the referee halted the action at 2:45 of the round. Hovhannisyan upped his record to 10-0 (9 KOs). Suffering his first loss by knockout, Navarro’s record dropped to 15-4 (13 KOs). Hovhannisyan had an amateur record of 110-20 before his September 2021 pro debut.
“This was my first time fighting in Las Vegas. I was out for a while with some injuries and now I'm back on the big stage where I want to be,” said Hovhannisyan. “First round I was just being patient. He's a smart boxer who's very fast. I started to press him and break him down round by round. Every fight with Joe, he tells me which round to finish my opponent. After the fourth round I came to my corner and he said this is the round. I thought it might take longer, but it was exactly what Joe said.”
Kevin Newman W10 Elijah Garcia... In Las Vegas, local light heavyweight Kevin “The Second Coming” Newman II engaged 22-year-old southpaw Elijah Garcia, of Phoenix, AZ, over ten fast-paced and competitive rounds. Newman prevailed by majority decision. Both fighters weighed 171.4 lbs. A pro boxer since age 16, Garcia was the aggressor for much of the bout while Newman II, who is trained by Roy Jones Jr., focused on counter punching. Garcia appeared to be the busier fighter early on, but Newman II picked up the pace, landing effective volleys over the second half. A tally of 95-95 was overruled by scorecards of 98-92 and 96-94 in favor of Newman. Keeping the winning streak going, now eight in a row, Newman II improved to 19-3-1 (11 KOs). Suffering a second close points loss in his last three bouts, Garcia, once ranked in the top ten by all four major sanctioning bodies, dipped to 17-2 (13 KOs).
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Brayan Gonzalez, 125 lbs., a 20-year-old super bantamweight southpaw and Junior Olympics silver medalist, out of Phoenix, outboxed Brandon Medina en route to a stoppage victory. Following a sustained attack, the referee felt Medina, 124.6 lbs., of Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico, had taken too much punishment and stepped in at Gonzalez upped his record to 5-0 (4 KOs), while Medina left the ring at 7-5.
Trained by his father Jayson Gallegos, 20-year-old Filipino-Hawaiian-American Kaipo Gallegos, 134.8 lbs., of Las Vegas, NV, survived a third-round knockdown to earn a hard-fought ten-round unanimous decision against Julian Gonzalez, 134.2 lbs., of Reading, PA. Scorecards read 98-91, 97-92 twice, all for Gallegos, now 12-0-1 (9 KOs). Gonzalez’s record fell to 16-2-1 (12 KOs). Gallegos was an 18-time National champion as an amateur.
Robert Guerrero Jr., 134.6 lbs., the 19-year-old son of former champion Robert Guerrero, of Las Vegas, NV, earned a close four-round unanimous decision against Rigoberto Rivera, of Edinburg, TX. Rivera, 134.2 lbs., was decked in the second, but he fought back well over the last two frames. Scorecards read 39-36 twice, and 38-37, all for Guerrero, now 8-0 (3 KOs). Rivera’s record evened out at 3-3 (1 KO).
In his first ten-rounder Italy’s Cristian Cangelosi, 154.8 lbs., based out of Brooklyn, NY, battled to a draw against Miguel Angel Hernandez, 155.2 lbs., of Dallas, TX, to open up the Fundora-Thurman event held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas. Cangelosi boxed well in the early frames, finding success with his overhand right. Hernandez adjusted and began to time Cangelosi’s advances. Born in Palermo, Sicilia, Italy, the 27-year-old Cangelosi, now 12-0-1 (5 KOs), is promoted by Danny Garcia’s Swift Promotions and managed by Chris Gilmore Jr. and Zach Margules, of Fide Management Group. A member of the Italian National team as an amateur, Cangelosi comes from a fighting family as his father and brother were also boxers. Having lived in Brooklyn since 2017, Cangelosi was mentored by Paulie Malignaggi early on in his career. Hernandez, who was coming off of a majority decision loss to Joey Spencer in December 2024, saw his record move to 9-1-1 (7 KOs).
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Acosta defeats Rios in Long Beach |
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Bryan Acosta W10 Ronny Rios... Mexican featherweight Bryan “Latino” Acosta (21-2, 8 KOs) returned to the win column by grinding out a fan-friendly ten-round unanimous decision over 36 year-old Ronny Rios (34-6, 17 KOs). Fighting in the ten-round main event of ProBoxTV’s “The Contender Series” broadcast from Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, the two sluggers eschewed defense in favor of toe-to-toe back-and-forth warfare throughout the 10 rounds. The nearly ten-year youth advantage proved the difference for the 27-year-old Acosta, as his punch rate and superior footwork allowed him to frequently force Rios to the ropes where he was often able to outslug him, especially as the rounds wore on. Rios had his moments as well, but Acosta’s iron chin help up well. The scores were 98-92 and 99-91 (twice).
Rene Giron KO6 Maliek Montgomery... Lightweight fringe contender Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Giron (23-5, 14 KOs) won with a typically thrilling sixth-round knockout over hard-luck contender “Mayhem” Maliek Montgomery (20-3, 18 KOs) of Macon, Georgia. Fighting in the night’s co-feature, Tellez Giron dropped Montgomery with a flush left hook in the final seconds of the first round, negating the good work the flashy-fisted Montgomery had done in the first 2:58 of the opener. Awakened by the smell of blood, Tellez Giron came out firing in round two, but Montgomery met his aggression with his own sharp shots that pushed Giron onto his back foot for much of the round. A good action round three was punctuated by a left hook the liver by Tellez Giron. Then, after two more forehead-to-forehead rounds in a phonebooth, Montgomery saw a good round six go up in smoke after getting dropped by a thudding left to the body, again in the round’s final seconds. This time, Montgomery’s corner felt they had seen enough and asked Referee Gerard White to stop the grueling contest before the start of round seven.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Popular junior welterweight Leonardo Rubalcava (11-1-1, 4 KOs) of Teocaltiche, Jalisco, Mexico won a dominant eight-round decision over wild-swinging veteran Juan Antonio Llanes (12-3-1, 7 KOs) of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico. The tough-as-nails Llanes earned his money, taking a fight-long beating, especially to the body, but had no answers for the disciplined power punching of Rubalcava. The doctors took a long look at the fading Llanes before round eight but allowed him to see the final bell. The scores were 80-72 by all three judges.
Hawaiian junior middleweight KJ Waialae (4-0, 2 KOs) won an entertaining six-round over unanimous decision over formerly undefeated Monray Marable (2-1, 2 KOs) of Lancaster, California. Waialae’s superior work rate gave him a slight edge over the eager, but outgunned, Marable. Marable had a good round four. The scores were 59-55 by all three judges.
In the opening televised bout, Australia’s Cooper O'Connell (4-0, 4 KOs) made a successful North American fighting debut by knocking out formerly undefeated Jorge Garcia Manrriquez (2-1, 2 KOs) in three rounds. Super lightweight O’Connell dropped Manrriquez with a left late in the first round and again in round three with another perfect straight left hand. Referee Ray Corona waved it off without counting at the :45 mark.
This event was presented by Robert Garcia, Garry Jonas (Pro Box Promotions), and Sampson Lewkowicz (Sampson Boxing).
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Acosta defeats Rios in Long Beach
Bryan Acosta W10 Ronny Rios... Mexican featherweight Bryan “Latino” Acosta (21-2, 8 KOs) returned to the win column by grinding out a fan-friendly ten-round unanimous decision over 36 year-old Ronny Rios (34-6, 17 KOs). Fighting in the ten-round main event of ProBoxTV’s “The Contender Series” broadcast from Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, the two sluggers eschewed defense in favor of toe-to-toe back-and-forth warfare throughout the 10 rounds. The nearly ten-year youth advantage proved the difference for the 27-year-old Acosta, as his punch rate and superior footwork allowed him to frequently force Rios to the ropes where he was often able to outslug him, especially as the rounds wore on. Rios had his moments as well, but Acosta’s iron chin help up well. The scores were 98-92 and 99-91 (twice).
Rene Giron KO6 Maliek Montgomery... Lightweight fringe contender Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Giron (23-5, 14 KOs) won with a typically thrilling sixth-round knockout over hard-luck contender “Mayhem” Maliek Montgomery (20-3, 18 KOs) of Macon, Georgia. Fighting in the night’s co-feature, Tellez Giron dropped Montgomery with a flush left hook in the final seconds of the first round, negating the good work the flashy-fisted Montgomery had done in the first 2:58 of the opener. Awakened by the smell of blood, Tellez Giron came out firing in round two, but Montgomery met his aggression with his own sharp shots that pushed Giron onto his back foot for much of the round. A good action round three was punctuated by a left hook the liver by Tellez Giron. Then, after two more forehead-to-forehead rounds in a phonebooth, Montgomery saw a good round six go up in smoke after getting dropped by a thudding left to the body, again in the round’s final seconds. This time, Montgomery’s corner felt they had seen enough and asked Referee Gerard White to stop the grueling contest before the start of round seven.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Popular junior welterweight Leonardo Rubalcava (11-1-1, 4 KOs) of Teocaltiche, Jalisco, Mexico won a dominant eight-round decision over wild-swinging veteran Juan Antonio Llanes (12-3-1, 7 KOs) of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico. The tough-as-nails Llanes earned his money, taking a fight-long beating, especially to the body, but had no answers for the disciplined power punching of Rubalcava. The doctors took a long look at the fading Llanes before round eight but allowed him to see the final bell. The scores were 80-72 by all three judges.
Hawaiian junior middleweight KJ Waialae (4-0, 2 KOs) won an entertaining six-round over unanimous decision over formerly undefeated Monray Marable (2-1, 2 KOs) of Lancaster, California. Waialae’s superior work rate gave him a slight edge over the eager, but outgunned, Marable. Marable had a good round four. The scores were 59-55 by all three judges.
In the opening televised bout, Australia’s Cooper O'Connell (4-0, 4 KOs) made a successful North American fighting debut by knocking out formerly undefeated Jorge Garcia Manrriquez (2-1, 2 KOs) in three rounds. Super lightweight O’Connell dropped Manrriquez with a left late in the first round and again in round three with another perfect straight left hand. Referee Ray Corona waved it off without counting at the :45 mark.
This event was presented by Robert Garcia, Garry Jonas (Pro Box Promotions), and Sampson Lewkowicz (Sampson Boxing).
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Weigh-in report from Las Vegas |
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Here are the boxers' weights for the PBC pay-per-view show in Las Vegas:
Sebastian Fundora (153.6 pounds) -vs.- Keith Thurman (152.6);
Yoeniis Tellez (153.8) -vs.- Brian Mendoza (153.2);
Yoenli Hernandez (158.4) -vs.- Terrell Gausha (160.8);
Gurgen Hovhannisyan (281.4) -vs.- Cesar Navarro (210.2).
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Weigh-in report from Las Vegas
Here are the boxers' weights for the PBC pay-per-view show in Las Vegas:
Sebastian Fundora (153.6 pounds) -vs.- Keith Thurman (152.6);
Yoeniis Tellez (153.8) -vs.- Brian Mendoza (153.2);
Yoenli Hernandez (158.4) -vs.- Terrell Gausha (160.8);
Gurgen Hovhannisyan (281.4) -vs.- Cesar Navarro (210.2).
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Red Owl show set for April 3rd in Allentown, PA |
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On Friday night April 3rd, Red Owl Boxing will present a night of boxing that will streamed live on DAZN from Allentown, Pennsylvania's Archer Music Hall. In the main event, Antonio Perez (11-0 with 5 KOs) will take on veteran Abraham Montoya in a ten-round lightweight bout. In the eight-round co-feature, bantamweight Emanuel Moreno (12-0, 3 KOs) of Wichita Falls, TX takes on Francisco Pedroza Portillo (20-13-2, 11 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico. Perez, from Harrisburg, PA, is a five-year professional who has wins over Nigel Fennell (13-2), Haskell Rhodes (20-5-1) and Antonio Williams (16-0-1). In his last outing back in June, the 24 year-old won an eight-round unanimous decision over Alex Martin.
Montoya of Mexicali, Mexico has a record of 23-7-1 with 14 KOs. The 31-year old holds a 2018 win over Luis Alberto Lopez, who would go on to win a world title, former interim champion JoJo Diaz (33-6-1), as well as Julio Barraza (19-1-1) and Alejandro Guerrero (12-0). In his last bout, Montoya dropped a ten-round decision to undefeated Tsendbatar Erdenbat. That was in November.
ADDITTIONAL BOUTS
In a six-round bouts, super bantamweight Cornelio Phipps (6-0, 2 KOs) of Oxford, PA fights Frank Gonzalez (12-9, 6 KOs) of Hialeah, Florida.
In four-round bouts:
2023 National Golden Gloves champion Adrian Salazar of Tyler, Texas makes his pro debut against Cory Grant (0-1-2) of Mesa, Arizona in welterweight bout.
In a battle of debuting featherweights, 20-time PA state champion and seven-time national amateur champion Eric Martinez of Reading, PA takes on Chris Karagiannis of Saint Louis.
Former multi-time national amateur champion Ivy Enriquez (6-0, 2 KOs) of El Paso, Texas takes on Chasity Roberts (1-0) of Jacksonville, Florida in a bantamweight fight.
Gustavo Morales (3-0, 2 KOs) of Allentown, PA will fight debuting Chevy Bridges of Durant, Oklahoma in a middleweight affair,
Jaclyne Mctamney (3-0, 1 KO) of Southampton, PA fights Loren Michaels (2-6) of Holidaysburg, PA in a featherweight bout.
Brooke Mullen (1-0, 1 KO) of Boyerstown, PA fights Breen Vaughn (0-2) of Las Vegas in a super welterweight bout.
Cahir Gormely (1-0) of Ireland, now residing in Scranton, PA takes on Dominque McBride (0-2) of Dallas in a junior middleweight bout.
Super bantamweight Dennis Thompson (9-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be announced.
Tickets are now on sale can be purchased here.
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Red Owl show set for April 3rd in Allentown, PA
On Friday night April 3rd, Red Owl Boxing will present a night of boxing that will streamed live on DAZN from Allentown, Pennsylvania's Archer Music Hall. In the main event, Antonio Perez (11-0 with 5 KOs) will take on veteran Abraham Montoya in a ten-round lightweight bout. In the eight-round co-feature, bantamweight Emanuel Moreno (12-0, 3 KOs) of Wichita Falls, TX takes on Francisco Pedroza Portillo (20-13-2, 11 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico. Perez, from Harrisburg, PA, is a five-year professional who has wins over Nigel Fennell (13-2), Haskell Rhodes (20-5-1) and Antonio Williams (16-0-1). In his last outing back in June, the 24 year-old won an eight-round unanimous decision over Alex Martin.
Montoya of Mexicali, Mexico has a record of 23-7-1 with 14 KOs. The 31-year old holds a 2018 win over Luis Alberto Lopez, who would go on to win a world title, former interim champion JoJo Diaz (33-6-1), as well as Julio Barraza (19-1-1) and Alejandro Guerrero (12-0). In his last bout, Montoya dropped a ten-round decision to undefeated Tsendbatar Erdenbat. That was in November.
ADDITTIONAL BOUTS
In a six-round bouts, super bantamweight Cornelio Phipps (6-0, 2 KOs) of Oxford, PA fights Frank Gonzalez (12-9, 6 KOs) of Hialeah, Florida.
In four-round bouts:
2023 National Golden Gloves champion Adrian Salazar of Tyler, Texas makes his pro debut against Cory Grant (0-1-2) of Mesa, Arizona in welterweight bout.
In a battle of debuting featherweights, 20-time PA state champion and seven-time national amateur champion Eric Martinez of Reading, PA takes on Chris Karagiannis of Saint Louis.
Former multi-time national amateur champion Ivy Enriquez (6-0, 2 KOs) of El Paso, Texas takes on Chasity Roberts (1-0) of Jacksonville, Florida in a bantamweight fight.
Gustavo Morales (3-0, 2 KOs) of Allentown, PA will fight debuting Chevy Bridges of Durant, Oklahoma in a middleweight affair,
Jaclyne Mctamney (3-0, 1 KO) of Southampton, PA fights Loren Michaels (2-6) of Holidaysburg, PA in a featherweight bout.
Brooke Mullen (1-0, 1 KO) of Boyerstown, PA fights Breen Vaughn (0-2) of Las Vegas in a super welterweight bout.
Cahir Gormely (1-0) of Ireland, now residing in Scranton, PA takes on Dominque McBride (0-2) of Dallas in a junior middleweight bout.
Super bantamweight Dennis Thompson (9-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be announced.
Tickets are now on sale can be purchased here.
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Al Bernstein to call Team Boxing League fights |
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TBL Team Boxing League ("TBL") today announced that Hall of Fame broadcaster Al Bernstein will join the league as a lead analyst for its upcoming season, elevating the league's broadcast team with one of the most respected voices in boxing history. Bernstein, whose career in boxing broadcasting spans more than four decades, has been a defining voice of the sport since his debut on the ESPN Top Rank Boxing Series in 1980. Over 23 years at ESPN, he served as both analyst and play-by-play announcer, while also contributing as a correspondent and host of the acclaimed "Big Fights Boxing Hour," chronicling some of the sport's most iconic moments.
In 2003, Bernstein joined Showtime, where he became a cornerstone of "Showtime Championship Boxing" and "ShoBox: The New Generation", serving as analyst and occasional play-by-play announcer for more than two decades until the network concluded its boxing programming in 2024. Since then, he has continued his broadcasting career with DAZN, contributing to the "Big Time Boxing USA" series and hosting his own boxing talk show.
"For the first three seasons I have enjoyed watching the TBL Team Boxing League and now I'm excited to join its broadcast team. This unique concept has helped make new boxing fans and given plenty of excitement to existing fans as well. The nuance of a team concept and one round fighting intervals has provided a lot of drama and great storylines for each night of competition," said Al Bernstein. "I am anxious to help chronicle all this in season four, which I know will expand on what has already been built for TBL. I am so glad to be aboard."
"We are honored to welcome Al Bernstein to TBL," added Kevin Cassidy, CEO of TBL Team Boxing League. "Al's voice is synonymous with boxing at the highest level. His experience, insight, and credibility will bring tremendous value to our broadcasts and help tell the story of our fighters and our league in a truly compelling way."
A 2012 inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Bernstein has also served as ringside analyst for boxing at the Olympic Games and has been inducted into multiple regional and national halls of fame, underscoring his lasting impact on the sport. In addition to his broadcasting career, Bernstein is an accomplished performer and vocalist, with a long history of live shows in Las Vegas and two recorded albums—further reflecting his versatility as an entertainer.
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Al Bernstein to call Team Boxing League fights
TBL Team Boxing League ("TBL") today announced that Hall of Fame broadcaster Al Bernstein will join the league as a lead analyst for its upcoming season, elevating the league's broadcast team with one of the most respected voices in boxing history. Bernstein, whose career in boxing broadcasting spans more than four decades, has been a defining voice of the sport since his debut on the ESPN Top Rank Boxing Series in 1980. Over 23 years at ESPN, he served as both analyst and play-by-play announcer, while also contributing as a correspondent and host of the acclaimed "Big Fights Boxing Hour," chronicling some of the sport's most iconic moments.
In 2003, Bernstein joined Showtime, where he became a cornerstone of "Showtime Championship Boxing" and "ShoBox: The New Generation", serving as analyst and occasional play-by-play announcer for more than two decades until the network concluded its boxing programming in 2024. Since then, he has continued his broadcasting career with DAZN, contributing to the "Big Time Boxing USA" series and hosting his own boxing talk show.
"For the first three seasons I have enjoyed watching the TBL Team Boxing League and now I'm excited to join its broadcast team. This unique concept has helped make new boxing fans and given plenty of excitement to existing fans as well. The nuance of a team concept and one round fighting intervals has provided a lot of drama and great storylines for each night of competition," said Al Bernstein. "I am anxious to help chronicle all this in season four, which I know will expand on what has already been built for TBL. I am so glad to be aboard."
"We are honored to welcome Al Bernstein to TBL," added Kevin Cassidy, CEO of TBL Team Boxing League. "Al's voice is synonymous with boxing at the highest level. His experience, insight, and credibility will bring tremendous value to our broadcasts and help tell the story of our fighters and our league in a truly compelling way."
A 2012 inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Bernstein has also served as ringside analyst for boxing at the Olympic Games and has been inducted into multiple regional and national halls of fame, underscoring his lasting impact on the sport. In addition to his broadcasting career, Bernstein is an accomplished performer and vocalist, with a long history of live shows in Las Vegas and two recorded albums—further reflecting his versatility as an entertainer.
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Conah Walker to host Sam Eggington in Wolverhampton |
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Conah Walker headlines in his hometown of Wolverhampton, England in a mouth-watering Midlands derby with Birmingham’s battle-hardened Sam Eggington on Saturday, May 2nd, live on DAZN. Welterweight Walker (17-3-1, 8 KOs) is on a golden career run with his eyes set on landing a dream world title shot in 2026 after emphatically stopping Team GB Olympic hero Pat McCormack in a high stakes thriller in Monte Carlo last December. The 30-year-old – trained by Jamie Moore – had hoped to challenge Lewis Crocker for the IBF crown, before the Belfast man was ordered to defend his belt against ex-champ Liam Paro. But Walker – who last year sensationally won the British title too when he defeated Harry Scarff – believes his homecoming, catchweight fight at University of Wolverhampton at The Halls against former British, Commonwealth and European king Eggington (36-9, 20 KOs) is the perfect opportunity to prepare himself for an eventual shot at greatness.
“My dream is to fight for a world title,” said Walker, speaking to Matchroom Boxing. “That dream was so close to being a reality for this fight – but the next best thing was a homecoming in Wolverhampton. I’d like to thank my manager Sam Jones, Eddie Hearn and Frank Smith for making it a reality. And the opponent in Sam Eggington couldn’t be more fitting. It will be a special fight for the fans. Look I’m a 147-pound fighter, Sam is a 154 fighter – but we’ve made it happen for the fans and we will put on an amazing spectacle on May 2nd. But there’s only one winner and that’s me.”
‘The Savage’ Eggington has warned Walker, however, that he is playing with fire and that he will not be there to pad his record. Eggington said: “Lee Cutler and Joe Pigford both picked me for the away corner. Different fighters, different venues. Same result incoming. Conah Walker, you are next.”
Bilal Fawaz, meanwhile, will defend his British & Commonwealth 154-pound titles for the first time when he faces ‘Ruthless’ Ryan Kelly. Birmingham’s Kelly (20-6-1, 8 KOs) has mixed it up with the likes of Caoimhin Agyarko, Kieron Conway, Brad Pauls and Hamzah Sheeraz in the past. But Fawaz (11-1-1, 3 KOs) will be determined to hold on to the belts he claimed last month in Nottingham against Ishamel Davis with a deserved majority decision triumph.
Northampton’s former British and Commonwealth middleweight champion Kieron Conway (23-4-1, 7 KOs) returns to the ring as he jumps up to super middleweight against Mark Jeffers (20-2, 7 KOs).
Tiah Mai Ayton, the teenager branded as the future ‘GWOAT’ by the greatest of all time, Katie Taylor, will face former European title challenger Stevi Levy (15-4, 2 KOs). The Bristolian super bantamweight, age 19, has put the world of boxing on notice since she sensationally debuted last summer in Birmingham, winning all five of her professional contests to date with four victories coming by the way of knockout.
Rotherham Super Middleweight prospect Junaid Bostan (10-1-1, 8 KOs) is back for the first time since his majority decision defeat by Bilal Fawaz last October. And Super Featherweight youngster Louie Ward, fresh from his professional debut win last weekend in London, joins the card too.
Further exciting additions are still to be announced for the May 2nd card – and Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn is looking forward to a blockbuster start to the May Bank Holiday weekend. “Conah Walker is on the cusp on greatness. After his sensational win in Monte-Carlo over Pat McCormack, he couldn’t be closer to a World Title shot,” said Hearn. "But he’s got to go through the trenches again, this time in front of his home fans. And a win over a tough, experienced operator in Sam Eggington would put an exclamation mark on his pursuit for glory. This is yet another brilliant UK card and you can guarantee it will be a lively Fight Night in Wolverhampton. Tickets will be sold out – so don’t miss it, live on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.”
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Conah Walker to host Sam Eggington in Wolverhampton
Conah Walker headlines in his hometown of Wolverhampton, England in a mouth-watering Midlands derby with Birmingham’s battle-hardened Sam Eggington on Saturday, May 2nd, live on DAZN. Welterweight Walker (17-3-1, 8 KOs) is on a golden career run with his eyes set on landing a dream world title shot in 2026 after emphatically stopping Team GB Olympic hero Pat McCormack in a high stakes thriller in Monte Carlo last December. The 30-year-old – trained by Jamie Moore – had hoped to challenge Lewis Crocker for the IBF crown, before the Belfast man was ordered to defend his belt against ex-champ Liam Paro. But Walker – who last year sensationally won the British title too when he defeated Harry Scarff – believes his homecoming, catchweight fight at University of Wolverhampton at The Halls against former British, Commonwealth and European king Eggington (36-9, 20 KOs) is the perfect opportunity to prepare himself for an eventual shot at greatness.
“My dream is to fight for a world title,” said Walker, speaking to Matchroom Boxing. “That dream was so close to being a reality for this fight – but the next best thing was a homecoming in Wolverhampton. I’d like to thank my manager Sam Jones, Eddie Hearn and Frank Smith for making it a reality. And the opponent in Sam Eggington couldn’t be more fitting. It will be a special fight for the fans. Look I’m a 147-pound fighter, Sam is a 154 fighter – but we’ve made it happen for the fans and we will put on an amazing spectacle on May 2nd. But there’s only one winner and that’s me.”
‘The Savage’ Eggington has warned Walker, however, that he is playing with fire and that he will not be there to pad his record. Eggington said: “Lee Cutler and Joe Pigford both picked me for the away corner. Different fighters, different venues. Same result incoming. Conah Walker, you are next.”
Bilal Fawaz, meanwhile, will defend his British & Commonwealth 154-pound titles for the first time when he faces ‘Ruthless’ Ryan Kelly. Birmingham’s Kelly (20-6-1, 8 KOs) has mixed it up with the likes of Caoimhin Agyarko, Kieron Conway, Brad Pauls and Hamzah Sheeraz in the past. But Fawaz (11-1-1, 3 KOs) will be determined to hold on to the belts he claimed last month in Nottingham against Ishamel Davis with a deserved majority decision triumph.
Northampton’s former British and Commonwealth middleweight champion Kieron Conway (23-4-1, 7 KOs) returns to the ring as he jumps up to super middleweight against Mark Jeffers (20-2, 7 KOs).
Tiah Mai Ayton, the teenager branded as the future ‘GWOAT’ by the greatest of all time, Katie Taylor, will face former European title challenger Stevi Levy (15-4, 2 KOs). The Bristolian super bantamweight, age 19, has put the world of boxing on notice since she sensationally debuted last summer in Birmingham, winning all five of her professional contests to date with four victories coming by the way of knockout.
Rotherham Super Middleweight prospect Junaid Bostan (10-1-1, 8 KOs) is back for the first time since his majority decision defeat by Bilal Fawaz last October. And Super Featherweight youngster Louie Ward, fresh from his professional debut win last weekend in London, joins the card too.
Further exciting additions are still to be announced for the May 2nd card – and Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn is looking forward to a blockbuster start to the May Bank Holiday weekend. “Conah Walker is on the cusp on greatness. After his sensational win in Monte-Carlo over Pat McCormack, he couldn’t be closer to a World Title shot,” said Hearn. "But he’s got to go through the trenches again, this time in front of his home fans. And a win over a tough, experienced operator in Sam Eggington would put an exclamation mark on his pursuit for glory. This is yet another brilliant UK card and you can guarantee it will be a lively Fight Night in Wolverhampton. Tickets will be sold out – so don’t miss it, live on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.”
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Bare knuckles action on tap for Mohegan Sun |
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Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) returns to the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut on Saturday (March 28th), streamed live worldwide on The BKFC App. BKFC's heavyweight division takes center stage as undefeated Parker Porter, a former UFC mixed martial artist, locks horns with Haze “The Hooligan” Wilson. From New Britain, CT, Parker has finished all three of his opponents in the squared circle, with only one of his fights making it into the second round. Wilson, who hails from Tulsa, Oklahoma, brings a 3-1 bare knuckle record into fight night, with all of his wins coming before the third round.
Fireworks are also guaranteed in Saturday’s co-feature as Massachusetts' Pat “The Gorilla Ninja” Casey and Kansas' Zeb “CWB” Vincent square off in matchup of fight-ending middleweights. Unbeaten Peabody, MA lightweight Rico DiSciullo will look to smash his way to 4-0 with a fourth straight finish at the expense of his toughest task yet — Pennsylvania's Elijah “The Buffalo Soldier” Harris, who will look to up his record to 3-1.
Saturday’s action from the historic New England region features a number of other exciting fights, including Rhode Island's Gary “Batman” Balletto (3-0) against Adam “Clooney” De Freitas (2-1) of Toronto. Also returning to the squared circle on the weekend will be Waterbury, CT heavyweight Guilherme Viana (2-0) and light heavyweight Joseph “JGP” Peters (2-0) of Tewksbury, MA. Card is subject to change.
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Bare knuckles action on tap for Mohegan Sun
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) returns to the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut on Saturday (March 28th), streamed live worldwide on The BKFC App. BKFC's heavyweight division takes center stage as undefeated Parker Porter, a former UFC mixed martial artist, locks horns with Haze “The Hooligan” Wilson. From New Britain, CT, Parker has finished all three of his opponents in the squared circle, with only one of his fights making it into the second round. Wilson, who hails from Tulsa, Oklahoma, brings a 3-1 bare knuckle record into fight night, with all of his wins coming before the third round.
Fireworks are also guaranteed in Saturday’s co-feature as Massachusetts' Pat “The Gorilla Ninja” Casey and Kansas' Zeb “CWB” Vincent square off in matchup of fight-ending middleweights. Unbeaten Peabody, MA lightweight Rico DiSciullo will look to smash his way to 4-0 with a fourth straight finish at the expense of his toughest task yet — Pennsylvania's Elijah “The Buffalo Soldier” Harris, who will look to up his record to 3-1.
Saturday’s action from the historic New England region features a number of other exciting fights, including Rhode Island's Gary “Batman” Balletto (3-0) against Adam “Clooney” De Freitas (2-1) of Toronto. Also returning to the squared circle on the weekend will be Waterbury, CT heavyweight Guilherme Viana (2-0) and light heavyweight Joseph “JGP” Peters (2-0) of Tewksbury, MA. Card is subject to change.
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The “So-Called” Ali Revival Act: The New Framework Risks Recreating What old one Meant to Stop |
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Promises of reform were central to the pitch. But in boxing, rights don’t live in promises—they live in contracts. The issues surrounding centralized control in boxing and the erosion of structural safeguards have been examined in prior analysis and white papers by the author. These concerns are not new—they reflect a growing recognition that boxing’s framework is evolving in ways that may reshape how existing protections are applied. Recent reporting by Thomas Hauser in The Guardian examined the mechanics of proposed Zuffa/TKO fighter contracts and the risks those agreements may pose to boxers. That reporting focused on what fighters may be asked to sign and how those provisions interact with protections under the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act. This article builds on that foundation by examining a different—and largely overlooked—question: how this model was received in Washington, why key institutions remained silent, and whether the shift toward “compliance” risks redefining how the law itself is applied. Contracts determine rights. Narratives shape the environment in which those contracts are judged.
Silence Is Consent
For all its flaws, boxing’s fragmented system—multiple promoters, sanctioning bodies, and competing pathways—has always served one purpose: it prevents any single entity from controlling everything. That’s not inefficiency. That’s a safeguard.
Yet as a centralized, Zuffa league-style model emerges—one that could control rankings, matchmaking, and opportunity—the response from boxing’s core institutions has been… silence. No unified position from the sanctioning bodies, no serious pushback, no effort to explain what disappears if control is consolidated. To Washington politicians debating whether to amend the Muhammad Ali Act, silence doesn’t read as caution. It reads as acceptance.
Former Senator John McCain, a key architect of the original Ali Act, would be "rolling in his grave" calling the new bill a "betrayal" that removes key protections and was heavily influenced by industry lobbyists. The proposed amendment to the Ali Act, “so called” Revival Act appears to be on its way to passage. It removes protections against coercive, long-term contracts, weakening financial disclosure requirements, and eliminating the "firewall" between promoters and managers. It also allows for "one-stop shops" (Unified Boxing Organizations or UBOs) run by promoters like TKO Group Holdings, potentially leading to the same monopolistic practices in boxing that the original Ali Act sought to eliminate.
And the silence from the old guard created an opening.
How the Narrative Won the Room
Zuffa/TKO didn’t walk into Congress with complexity. They walked in with “so called” clarity: minimum pay, healthcare, pensions, structure.That’s the language lawmakers understand. It mirrors the NFL and NBA—systems they trust. Boxing, by contrast, is messy. Hard to explain. Easy to criticize. So the narrative took hold. But here’s the problem: clarity is not the same as compliance.
Promises vs. Contracts
At the center of this entire issue is one simple question: Where do the protections actually exist?
Zuffa spoke about healthcare and pensions to Congress. They emphasized improved conditions for fighters. But those protections are not reflected as enforceable rights in the operative Zuffa fighter contracts. That matters, because in this business, Promises are made in rooms. Rights are created in contracts. And courts enforce contracts—not talking points. In this context, the difference between perception and reality is not rhetorical—it is contractual.
The Shift to So-Called Compliance
What we are seeing is a shift away from structural safeguards toward something else: a framework of “so-called compliance,” where the appearance of protection risks substituting for the protections themselves. The original Ali Act was designed to prevent conflicts of interest, coercive control, manipulation of rankings and opportunity. It was never about promises. It was about structure. But now the question has changed: If certain benefits are described, is the system compliant?
That shift is not semantic—it’s structural. When Congress signals comfort with a framework based on representations, courts take notice—not as blind deference, but as context for interpreting the law. The inquiry subtly changes from whether the structure undermines the purpose of the law to whether it appears consistent with what lawmakers were told. Compliance becomes a proxy for legality.
The Contracts That Weren’t Examined
This leads to the obvious question: did anyone in Congress actually review the operative Zuffa fighter contracts? There is no public indication that they did. And that’s no small detail—that’s everything. Those contracts determine how long fighters are locked in, whether they can compete elsewhere, who controls opportunity, and what rights they actually have. The absence of contract review is the difference between evaluating a system—and evaluating a sales pitch.
History Shows What Happens When Structure Is Replaced by Promises
History offers a familiar warning. The repeal of the Glass–Steagall Act was framed as modernization—an effort to make financial markets more efficient and competitive. In practice, it removed structural safeguards that had separated power and risk, contributing to the conditions that culminated in the 2008 financial crisis. The lesson is not about banking. It is about structure: when safeguards are replaced by assurances, the consequences often follow later.
A similar pattern emerged in college athletics. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) defended “amateurism” for decades as a system designed to protect athletes. Over time, that framework was reshaped through NIL reforms, granting athletes new economic rights. Yet the shift introduced new tensions. Prominent coaches, including Nick Saban, have acknowledged that programs with the deepest financial backing now hold a decisive advantage in recruiting talent. The result is a new imbalance—one defined less by restriction and more by concentration of financial influence.
The parallels are not exact, but they are instructive. In each case, reform altered structure—and in doing so, redistributed control.
Why California Matters
One detail that hasn’t gotten enough attention: Zuffa’s apparent effort to avoid California. That's likely because California courts are aggressive when it comes to restrictive contracts, de facto non-competes, coercive structures, and unenforceable benefit promises. It is also one of the jurisdictions most familiar with the Ali Act.
Compare that to Nevada—where business models often operate first and get litigated later. Zuffa knows this. History proves it. The UFC moved major antitrust litigation to Nevada—and still paid hundreds of millions, with more litigation ongoing. Venue didn’t eliminate risk but it certainly delayed it.
So the question becomes: If this model is truly compliant, why avoid the places most likely to test it?
Zuffa’s history is relevant. The UFC has faced major antitrust lawsuits brought by fighters challenging pay structures, contract restrictions, and control over the marketplace. That does not determine the legality of any new boxing model. But it does reinforce a central point: Structure—not promises—is what determines how power operates. And the structure now being proposed for boxing raises familiar questions.
Regulatory Comfort Without Contractual Scrutiny
Some regulators have expressed comfort with this model. The question is: based on what? If that comfort is not grounded in the actual contracts, then it rests on assumptions, representations, expectations. And that is not regulation—it is reliance. Once that happens, regulators influence lawmakers, lawmakers influence courts, courts enforce what is written—not what was said.
Durability: What Happens When Subsidy Meets Structure
A related question rarely addressed in the current debate is durability. The proposed model for boxing is widely understood to involve a partnership structure in which a Saudi-backed entity holds a majority position, with Zuffa/TKO as the operating partner. That structure can accelerate growth—particularly where significant capital is deployed upfront.
But it also introduces a basic economic question: What does the system look like when Zuffa/TKO must stand on its own? Subsidized growth can mask underlying dynamics: how fighters are compensated relative to revenue, how much leverage participants retain, and whether meaningful competition exists outside the platform.
Those questions do not disappear—they are deferred. If the model depends on continued external funding to sustain purses or guarantees, then the operative contracts—not the capital—will determine outcomes. Fighters are governed by structure, not by the scale of initial investment. When subsidy recedes, structure remains.
Where Fighters Stand
Fighters, as always, remain on the outside. No union, no collective voice, no seat at the table. Their future is being shaped by others—without them present. And in that environment: benefits can substitute for leverage, structure can substitute for choice.
Conclusion: What Exactly Is Being Revived?
Congress passed the Ali Act to fix a broken system—one defined by imbalance, control, and lack of transparency. The risk today is not that the law disappears. It is that it remains in place—while everything around it changes. The “revival” aimed at strengthening protections may, in practice, restore the very conditions those protections were designed to prevent.
And more than that, the evidence increasingly suggests that it is resurrecting the very dynamics the Ali Act was designed to end. It’s heartening to see Congress take a break from their own raises to worry about the people actually getting punched in the face. Clearly, we should all be grateful. There’s no safer place for a fighter’s future than in the hands of a career politician and Zuffa lobbyists.
Only our brilliant elected officials could look at the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act—a landmark anti-monopoly law—and decide the best way to “revive” it is to hand the keys to TKO Group Holdings and Saudi Arabia. It’s a stroke of genius to let Zuffa act as its own promoter, manager, and judge, all while hand-picking its own rankings.
Congress has “fixed” the Act by stripping away those pesky financial transparency rules that allowed fighters to see how much money was actually in the pot. It’s a relief to know that instead of “outdated” protections, boxers now get the “opportunity” to be locked into predatory, coercive multi-year contracts with zero idea what they’re actually worth. Finally, our brilliant elected officials solved the “problem” of boxers having leverage by simply making it illegal for them to have any.
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The “So-Called” Ali Revival Act: The New Framework Risks Recreating What old one Meant to Stop
Promises of reform were central to the pitch. But in boxing, rights don’t live in promises—they live in contracts. The issues surrounding centralized control in boxing and the erosion of structural safeguards have been examined in prior analysis and white papers by the author. These concerns are not new—they reflect a growing recognition that boxing’s framework is evolving in ways that may reshape how existing protections are applied. Recent reporting by Thomas Hauser in The Guardian examined the mechanics of proposed Zuffa/TKO fighter contracts and the risks those agreements may pose to boxers. That reporting focused on what fighters may be asked to sign and how those provisions interact with protections under the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act. This article builds on that foundation by examining a different—and largely overlooked—question: how this model was received in Washington, why key institutions remained silent, and whether the shift toward “compliance” risks redefining how the law itself is applied. Contracts determine rights. Narratives shape the environment in which those contracts are judged.
Silence Is Consent
For all its flaws, boxing’s fragmented system—multiple promoters, sanctioning bodies, and competing pathways—has always served one purpose: it prevents any single entity from controlling everything. That’s not inefficiency. That’s a safeguard.
Yet as a centralized, Zuffa league-style model emerges—one that could control rankings, matchmaking, and opportunity—the response from boxing’s core institutions has been… silence. No unified position from the sanctioning bodies, no serious pushback, no effort to explain what disappears if control is consolidated. To Washington politicians debating whether to amend the Muhammad Ali Act, silence doesn’t read as caution. It reads as acceptance.
Former Senator John McCain, a key architect of the original Ali Act, would be "rolling in his grave" calling the new bill a "betrayal" that removes key protections and was heavily influenced by industry lobbyists. The proposed amendment to the Ali Act, “so called” Revival Act appears to be on its way to passage. It removes protections against coercive, long-term contracts, weakening financial disclosure requirements, and eliminating the "firewall" between promoters and managers. It also allows for "one-stop shops" (Unified Boxing Organizations or UBOs) run by promoters like TKO Group Holdings, potentially leading to the same monopolistic practices in boxing that the original Ali Act sought to eliminate.
And the silence from the old guard created an opening.
How the Narrative Won the Room
Zuffa/TKO didn’t walk into Congress with complexity. They walked in with “so called” clarity: minimum pay, healthcare, pensions, structure.That’s the language lawmakers understand. It mirrors the NFL and NBA—systems they trust. Boxing, by contrast, is messy. Hard to explain. Easy to criticize. So the narrative took hold. But here’s the problem: clarity is not the same as compliance.
Promises vs. Contracts
At the center of this entire issue is one simple question: Where do the protections actually exist?
Zuffa spoke about healthcare and pensions to Congress. They emphasized improved conditions for fighters. But those protections are not reflected as enforceable rights in the operative Zuffa fighter contracts. That matters, because in this business, Promises are made in rooms. Rights are created in contracts. And courts enforce contracts—not talking points. In this context, the difference between perception and reality is not rhetorical—it is contractual.
The Shift to So-Called Compliance
What we are seeing is a shift away from structural safeguards toward something else: a framework of “so-called compliance,” where the appearance of protection risks substituting for the protections themselves. The original Ali Act was designed to prevent conflicts of interest, coercive control, manipulation of rankings and opportunity. It was never about promises. It was about structure. But now the question has changed: If certain benefits are described, is the system compliant?
That shift is not semantic—it’s structural. When Congress signals comfort with a framework based on representations, courts take notice—not as blind deference, but as context for interpreting the law. The inquiry subtly changes from whether the structure undermines the purpose of the law to whether it appears consistent with what lawmakers were told. Compliance becomes a proxy for legality.
The Contracts That Weren’t Examined
This leads to the obvious question: did anyone in Congress actually review the operative Zuffa fighter contracts? There is no public indication that they did. And that’s no small detail—that’s everything. Those contracts determine how long fighters are locked in, whether they can compete elsewhere, who controls opportunity, and what rights they actually have. The absence of contract review is the difference between evaluating a system—and evaluating a sales pitch.
History Shows What Happens When Structure Is Replaced by Promises
History offers a familiar warning. The repeal of the Glass–Steagall Act was framed as modernization—an effort to make financial markets more efficient and competitive. In practice, it removed structural safeguards that had separated power and risk, contributing to the conditions that culminated in the 2008 financial crisis. The lesson is not about banking. It is about structure: when safeguards are replaced by assurances, the consequences often follow later.
A similar pattern emerged in college athletics. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) defended “amateurism” for decades as a system designed to protect athletes. Over time, that framework was reshaped through NIL reforms, granting athletes new economic rights. Yet the shift introduced new tensions. Prominent coaches, including Nick Saban, have acknowledged that programs with the deepest financial backing now hold a decisive advantage in recruiting talent. The result is a new imbalance—one defined less by restriction and more by concentration of financial influence.
The parallels are not exact, but they are instructive. In each case, reform altered structure—and in doing so, redistributed control.
Why California Matters
One detail that hasn’t gotten enough attention: Zuffa’s apparent effort to avoid California. That's likely because California courts are aggressive when it comes to restrictive contracts, de facto non-competes, coercive structures, and unenforceable benefit promises. It is also one of the jurisdictions most familiar with the Ali Act.
Compare that to Nevada—where business models often operate first and get litigated later. Zuffa knows this. History proves it. The UFC moved major antitrust litigation to Nevada—and still paid hundreds of millions, with more litigation ongoing. Venue didn’t eliminate risk but it certainly delayed it.
So the question becomes: If this model is truly compliant, why avoid the places most likely to test it?
Zuffa’s history is relevant. The UFC has faced major antitrust lawsuits brought by fighters challenging pay structures, contract restrictions, and control over the marketplace. That does not determine the legality of any new boxing model. But it does reinforce a central point: Structure—not promises—is what determines how power operates. And the structure now being proposed for boxing raises familiar questions.
Regulatory Comfort Without Contractual Scrutiny
Some regulators have expressed comfort with this model. The question is: based on what? If that comfort is not grounded in the actual contracts, then it rests on assumptions, representations, expectations. And that is not regulation—it is reliance. Once that happens, regulators influence lawmakers, lawmakers influence courts, courts enforce what is written—not what was said.
Durability: What Happens When Subsidy Meets Structure
A related question rarely addressed in the current debate is durability. The proposed model for boxing is widely understood to involve a partnership structure in which a Saudi-backed entity holds a majority position, with Zuffa/TKO as the operating partner. That structure can accelerate growth—particularly where significant capital is deployed upfront.
But it also introduces a basic economic question: What does the system look like when Zuffa/TKO must stand on its own? Subsidized growth can mask underlying dynamics: how fighters are compensated relative to revenue, how much leverage participants retain, and whether meaningful competition exists outside the platform.
Those questions do not disappear—they are deferred. If the model depends on continued external funding to sustain purses or guarantees, then the operative contracts—not the capital—will determine outcomes. Fighters are governed by structure, not by the scale of initial investment. When subsidy recedes, structure remains.
Where Fighters Stand
Fighters, as always, remain on the outside. No union, no collective voice, no seat at the table. Their future is being shaped by others—without them present. And in that environment: benefits can substitute for leverage, structure can substitute for choice.
Conclusion: What Exactly Is Being Revived?
Congress passed the Ali Act to fix a broken system—one defined by imbalance, control, and lack of transparency. The risk today is not that the law disappears. It is that it remains in place—while everything around it changes. The “revival” aimed at strengthening protections may, in practice, restore the very conditions those protections were designed to prevent.
And more than that, the evidence increasingly suggests that it is resurrecting the very dynamics the Ali Act was designed to end. It’s heartening to see Congress take a break from their own raises to worry about the people actually getting punched in the face. Clearly, we should all be grateful. There’s no safer place for a fighter’s future than in the hands of a career politician and Zuffa lobbyists.
Only our brilliant elected officials could look at the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act—a landmark anti-monopoly law—and decide the best way to “revive” it is to hand the keys to TKO Group Holdings and Saudi Arabia. It’s a stroke of genius to let Zuffa act as its own promoter, manager, and judge, all while hand-picking its own rankings.
Congress has “fixed” the Act by stripping away those pesky financial transparency rules that allowed fighters to see how much money was actually in the pot. It’s a relief to know that instead of “outdated” protections, boxers now get the “opportunity” to be locked into predatory, coercive multi-year contracts with zero idea what they’re actually worth. Finally, our brilliant elected officials solved the “problem” of boxers having leverage by simply making it illegal for them to have any.
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Jarrell Miller confident as usual |
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Jarrell Miller has promised to make it a hairy night for Lenier Pero when they clash in a WBA heavyweight eliminator at BleauLive at Fontainebleau in Las Vegas on Saturday April 25th, live worldwide on DAZN. Miller (27-1-2 22 KOs) went ten rounds against Kingsley Ibeh in New York in January, marking his return to action 18 months after taking on former world ruler Andy Ruiz in Los Angeles, a close run cracker that ended in a majority draw. ‘Big Baby’s’ bout with Ibeh turned the Brooklyn man into a viral sensation after his hairpiece was dislodged by an Ibeh flurry in the second round, forcing Miller to rip it off and fling out of the ring. Miller embraced the moment and was a hit online and in the media after the incident and subsequent split decision victory, but now the 37 year old wants to use it to launch an assault on the Heavyweight division, starting with him going back to his high-volume output in Las Vegas, and landing a big win over WBA #2 ranked Pero (13-0 8 KOs) to be firmly in the mix for the big fights in the division.
“The toupee thing was something that was definitely not planned but we ran with it and it worked in our favor,” said Miller. “Kingsley was not a walkover, he gave me a run for my money, but I take an ugly win over a good loss any day. Pero called me out before which I was shocked by, but come April 25 I’ll be whooping his ass real good.
“Any fighter that gets in the ring over 200 pounds has a puncher’s chance, and I’ve never slept on any of my opponents or taken anyone lightly. It was a shorter camp for the New York fight but I’ve been in the gym since that fight and I look a lot leaner now.
“I need someone to get my juices running, I’m going to beat this bitch’s ass bad on April 25, he might need to get a one-way boat back to Cuba. It’s not going to be any of that pretty moving around, I’m going back to the old school and I’m going to run him over Big Baby style. I’m throwing 70-80- punches a round, he’s going to try to move around and box, I’ve seen the stuff he does in the gym, but I’m going to beat the brakes off his ass, trust me.”
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Jarrell Miller confident as usual
Jarrell Miller has promised to make it a hairy night for Lenier Pero when they clash in a WBA heavyweight eliminator at BleauLive at Fontainebleau in Las Vegas on Saturday April 25th, live worldwide on DAZN. Miller (27-1-2 22 KOs) went ten rounds against Kingsley Ibeh in New York in January, marking his return to action 18 months after taking on former world ruler Andy Ruiz in Los Angeles, a close run cracker that ended in a majority draw. ‘Big Baby’s’ bout with Ibeh turned the Brooklyn man into a viral sensation after his hairpiece was dislodged by an Ibeh flurry in the second round, forcing Miller to rip it off and fling out of the ring. Miller embraced the moment and was a hit online and in the media after the incident and subsequent split decision victory, but now the 37 year old wants to use it to launch an assault on the Heavyweight division, starting with him going back to his high-volume output in Las Vegas, and landing a big win over WBA #2 ranked Pero (13-0 8 KOs) to be firmly in the mix for the big fights in the division.
“The toupee thing was something that was definitely not planned but we ran with it and it worked in our favor,” said Miller. “Kingsley was not a walkover, he gave me a run for my money, but I take an ugly win over a good loss any day. Pero called me out before which I was shocked by, but come April 25 I’ll be whooping his ass real good.
“Any fighter that gets in the ring over 200 pounds has a puncher’s chance, and I’ve never slept on any of my opponents or taken anyone lightly. It was a shorter camp for the New York fight but I’ve been in the gym since that fight and I look a lot leaner now.
“I need someone to get my juices running, I’m going to beat this bitch’s ass bad on April 25, he might need to get a one-way boat back to Cuba. It’s not going to be any of that pretty moving around, I’m going back to the old school and I’m going to run him over Big Baby style. I’m throwing 70-80- punches a round, he’s going to try to move around and box, I’ve seen the stuff he does in the gym, but I’m going to beat the brakes off his ass, trust me.”
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Itauma quits the party life to focus on Franklin |
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Heavyweight contender Moses Itauma has turned his back on the partying and admits that it can all wait until he is retired. The unbeaten 21-year old aims to register victory number fourteen when he faces Jermaine Franklin at the Co-op live arena in Manchester on Saturday night, live on DAZN. Itauma is arguably the hottest prospect in boxing right now and he took his career to new heights when he stopped former contender Dillian Whyte inside two minutes on his latest outing in August last year. However, with his rise up the ranks has come a rise in popularity and he has spoken of a new-found discipline after suggesting he dabbled in the party lifestyle a little. “I feel like I lost myself to find myself,” said Itauma. “But even when I was at these parties – I know you’ve got to enjoy yourself and relax – but for me personally, I was like ‘I’m not really doing my purpose’.
“I know boxing is my number one and when I was at these parties and what not, obviously it was great and it was fun to be around new people, but I almost just had that element of like I need to get back in the gym. A lot of my friends could have been something and they got caught up in the party life. Even if you ask my amateur trainers, all of them said I wasn’t the most talented boxer, I didn’t hit the hardest, I wasn’t the best, but I kind of had the consistency to stay on, whereas everyone else went to parties. So, when I was at these parties, I was like ‘I don’t want to get caught up in that cycle that they got caught up in’, because obviously I am trying to achieve something. Or maybe I’m just boring!”
Boring in the ring Itauma certainly is not and he has ended all of his last nine fights within two rounds, drawing comparison to a young Mike Tyson in the process. If Itauma keeps winning and he becomes a world champion, then the temptation and trappings outside of the ring will become even greater as his popularity grows. “We’ll see what happens when I get there,” Itauma replied when quizzed on if it would become a fine balancing act.
The chance of fighting for a world title will get even closer if Itauma defeats Franklin and a shot at WBA ‘regular’ champion Murat Gassiev is rumored to be next if he prevails this weekend. However, he has seen his circle of friends become smaller as he gets closer to the summit of the heavyweight division and he now values those closest to him greater than ever. “I tell you one thing, when you start achieving a little bit of success, you start to see value in the relationships that you have. So, I started realizing that my bond with my family became stronger and more important, and the ones that kind of weren’t so much, they kind of just dropped out. Everyone was like ‘you’ve changed, you’ve this and you’ve that’ but it’s supposed to. My whole life has changed, you’re not supposed to stay a caterpillar. It’s not like I don’t want to go to these parties and I don’t want to do what they’re doing, it’s like the conversations you are no longer relating to. The things that they’re talking about, you’re no longer talking about the same things. Especially with myself, I feel like everyone is in tune with the same thing. So, when it comes to my family, if they’re talking to me then they’re talking to me about boxing. And if they’re talking to me brother, they are talking about how they can generate other things. Everything has value, I guess, and I feel I didn’t really have that with my old set of friends.”
So, the partying is on the backburner as he bids to record the biggest win of his career and the talk of world titles will get very serious if he disposes of Franklin like he has most of his opponents.
When asked if he was planning to save the parties for when he retires, his answer was short and sweet: “Exactly.”
Itauma faces a tough test against Franklin this Saturday night, March 28th. Watch exclusively with a DAZN Ultimate subscription to also get PPVs Chisora vs. Wilder (April 4th), Wardley vs. Dubois (May 9th), and Usyk vs Verhoeven (May 23rd) included.
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Itauma quits the party life to focus on Franklin
Heavyweight contender Moses Itauma has turned his back on the partying and admits that it can all wait until he is retired. The unbeaten 21-year old aims to register victory number fourteen when he faces Jermaine Franklin at the Co-op live arena in Manchester on Saturday night, live on DAZN. Itauma is arguably the hottest prospect in boxing right now and he took his career to new heights when he stopped former contender Dillian Whyte inside two minutes on his latest outing in August last year. However, with his rise up the ranks has come a rise in popularity and he has spoken of a new-found discipline after suggesting he dabbled in the party lifestyle a little. “I feel like I lost myself to find myself,” said Itauma. “But even when I was at these parties – I know you’ve got to enjoy yourself and relax – but for me personally, I was like ‘I’m not really doing my purpose’.
“I know boxing is my number one and when I was at these parties and what not, obviously it was great and it was fun to be around new people, but I almost just had that element of like I need to get back in the gym. A lot of my friends could have been something and they got caught up in the party life. Even if you ask my amateur trainers, all of them said I wasn’t the most talented boxer, I didn’t hit the hardest, I wasn’t the best, but I kind of had the consistency to stay on, whereas everyone else went to parties. So, when I was at these parties, I was like ‘I don’t want to get caught up in that cycle that they got caught up in’, because obviously I am trying to achieve something. Or maybe I’m just boring!”
Boring in the ring Itauma certainly is not and he has ended all of his last nine fights within two rounds, drawing comparison to a young Mike Tyson in the process. If Itauma keeps winning and he becomes a world champion, then the temptation and trappings outside of the ring will become even greater as his popularity grows. “We’ll see what happens when I get there,” Itauma replied when quizzed on if it would become a fine balancing act.
The chance of fighting for a world title will get even closer if Itauma defeats Franklin and a shot at WBA ‘regular’ champion Murat Gassiev is rumored to be next if he prevails this weekend. However, he has seen his circle of friends become smaller as he gets closer to the summit of the heavyweight division and he now values those closest to him greater than ever. “I tell you one thing, when you start achieving a little bit of success, you start to see value in the relationships that you have. So, I started realizing that my bond with my family became stronger and more important, and the ones that kind of weren’t so much, they kind of just dropped out. Everyone was like ‘you’ve changed, you’ve this and you’ve that’ but it’s supposed to. My whole life has changed, you’re not supposed to stay a caterpillar. It’s not like I don’t want to go to these parties and I don’t want to do what they’re doing, it’s like the conversations you are no longer relating to. The things that they’re talking about, you’re no longer talking about the same things. Especially with myself, I feel like everyone is in tune with the same thing. So, when it comes to my family, if they’re talking to me then they’re talking to me about boxing. And if they’re talking to me brother, they are talking about how they can generate other things. Everything has value, I guess, and I feel I didn’t really have that with my old set of friends.”
So, the partying is on the backburner as he bids to record the biggest win of his career and the talk of world titles will get very serious if he disposes of Franklin like he has most of his opponents.
When asked if he was planning to save the parties for when he retires, his answer was short and sweet: “Exactly.”
Itauma faces a tough test against Franklin this Saturday night, March 28th. Watch exclusively with a DAZN Ultimate subscription to also get PPVs Chisora vs. Wilder (April 4th), Wardley vs. Dubois (May 9th), and Usyk vs Verhoeven (May 23rd) included.
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Thurman: "Is this fight my redemption or the beginning of Fundora’s legacy?" |
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WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman (pictured) opened fight week events with a stare down and previewed their championship clash during the live streamed PBC Opening Bell show before they step into the ring this Saturday, March 28th headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Fundora and Thurman each sat down with the Opening Bell panel and discussed what fans will see in the ring when they finally square off this Saturday night. “Saturday is not just another night, it’s a historic night,” said Thurman. “Is it my redemption? Or is it the beginning of Fundora’s legacy? That’s what people wanna see. We’ve seen what happens to Sebastian’s legs when he got rocked. Can ‘One Time’ do it to Sebastian one more time? I have confidence and I believe in myself. It’s gonna be about the traps I set. How does he avoid all that?”
“I’m a lot for everybody in this division and everybody in this sport,” said Fundora. “Stepping in the ring with me is a problem for anybody. I’m evolving and I’m maturing. We’re getting stronger and wiser and bringing that inside the ring. I plan on winning this Saturday and adding another great name to my resume.”
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Thurman: "Is this fight my redemption or the beginning of Fundora’s legacy?"
WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman (pictured) opened fight week events with a stare down and previewed their championship clash during the live streamed PBC Opening Bell show before they step into the ring this Saturday, March 28th headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Fundora and Thurman each sat down with the Opening Bell panel and discussed what fans will see in the ring when they finally square off this Saturday night. “Saturday is not just another night, it’s a historic night,” said Thurman. “Is it my redemption? Or is it the beginning of Fundora’s legacy? That’s what people wanna see. We’ve seen what happens to Sebastian’s legs when he got rocked. Can ‘One Time’ do it to Sebastian one more time? I have confidence and I believe in myself. It’s gonna be about the traps I set. How does he avoid all that?”
“I’m a lot for everybody in this division and everybody in this sport,” said Fundora. “Stepping in the ring with me is a problem for anybody. I’m evolving and I’m maturing. We’re getting stronger and wiser and bringing that inside the ring. I plan on winning this Saturday and adding another great name to my resume.”
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Chavez Jr. books April fight in Northern Mexico |
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The next bout for Julio César Chávez Jr. (55-7) is now set, as the former WBC middleweight champion turned cruiserweight will step back into the ring on April 25th in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. His opponent will be Jhon Caicedo, who enters with a record of 13-1 and 5 KOs. Chavez has one win in January since a disastrous loss to Jake Paul in 2025. The bout will be at Estadio Lic. Adolfo López Mateos, a venue that will host a full card featuring local talent and international prospects in an event supported by municipal authorities and aimed at boosting boxing in the northern region of the country.
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Chavez Jr. books April fight in Northern Mexico
The next bout for Julio César Chávez Jr. (55-7) is now set, as the former WBC middleweight champion turned cruiserweight will step back into the ring on April 25th in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. His opponent will be Jhon Caicedo, who enters with a record of 13-1 and 5 KOs. Chavez has one win in January since a disastrous loss to Jake Paul in 2025. The bout will be at Estadio Lic. Adolfo López Mateos, a venue that will host a full card featuring local talent and international prospects in an event supported by municipal authorities and aimed at boosting boxing in the northern region of the country.
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Apochi faces undefeated Duquesne on Friday |
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BiYu Promotions is set to present the first installment of its "Ascension" series this Friday night, March 27th in Houston. Six exciting bouts are set to take place with undefeated boxers Joshua Franco (2-0), Jason Moreno (5-0), Christopher S. Gonzalez (8-0-1) and Chavon Davis Stillwell (8-0) all set to put their loss-free records on the line. The main event will see Efetobor Apochi (13-3. 13 KOs) of Ughelli, Nigeria against Dariel Duquesne (14-0, 11 KOs) of Pinar del Rio, Cuba in the cruiserweight division. Apochi has only three losses, all of them by narrow decision to accomplished opposition. He will have boxing hall of famer Christy Martin in his corner. Duquesne has the better record, but is taking a step-up in opposition level. Tickets can be purchased at BiYuPromotions.com. The first bell is scheduled for for 7PM, with the event taking place at the BiYu Arena. The ring announcer will be Boxingtalk writer Christian Schmidt.
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Apochi faces undefeated Duquesne on Friday
BiYu Promotions is set to present the first installment of its "Ascension" series this Friday night, March 27th in Houston. Six exciting bouts are set to take place with undefeated boxers Joshua Franco (2-0), Jason Moreno (5-0), Christopher S. Gonzalez (8-0-1) and Chavon Davis Stillwell (8-0) all set to put their loss-free records on the line. The main event will see Efetobor Apochi (13-3. 13 KOs) of Ughelli, Nigeria against Dariel Duquesne (14-0, 11 KOs) of Pinar del Rio, Cuba in the cruiserweight division. Apochi has only three losses, all of them by narrow decision to accomplished opposition. He will have boxing hall of famer Christy Martin in his corner. Duquesne has the better record, but is taking a step-up in opposition level. Tickets can be purchased at BiYuPromotions.com. The first bell is scheduled for for 7PM, with the event taking place at the BiYu Arena. The ring announcer will be Boxingtalk writer Christian Schmidt.
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Team Combat League rebrands as Team Boxing League |
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Team Boxing League ("TBL"), formerly known as Team Combat League, announced a multi-year agreement with Envoy Media Co., the new media company led by Dr. Phil McGraw, to serve as the league's official producing partner and media hub platform beginning with TBL's fourth season, which launched over the weekend. Under the agreement, all TBL match coverage, studio programming, and original content will be produced from Envoy Media Co.'s state-of-the-art television studios in Dallas, Texas. Envoy will produce, promote, and distribute more than 70 weekly hours of TBL programming, including live matches, encore presentations, classic telecasts, and an all-original studio show alongside additional shoulder content.
The comprehensive programming schedule will air across Envoy's flagship platforms, EnvoyTV (pay cable - MVPD/VMVPD) and EnvoyFAST, delivering a complementary viewing experience with a combined reach of more than 120 million TV households and connected devices. TBL coverage on EnvoyFAST will also be accessible via the EnvoyTV App, further expanding availability to digital audiences nationwide.
"We are thrilled to partner with Envoy Media as we enter an exciting new chapter for TBL," said Kevin Cassidy, CEO of TBL Team Boxing League. "Dr Phil and Envoy's commitment to the highest quality production, expansive distribution across all popular content platforms, and innovative original programming makes them the ideal partner to bring our fast-paced, team-based format to fans across the country."
"TBL Team Boxing League is quickly proving one of the most exciting and fantastically disruptive innovations in all of professional sports," said Ken Solomon, President and CEO of Envoy Media. "The league's 24-round, three-minute per matchup format means that for boxing fans new and old, the first time ever, every round is the deciding round. TBL's dual-gender open team tryouts and three live match days per week take one of the most universal and beloved sports to a whole new level, and its all-out format is tailor-made for broad, cross platform media consumption. Once TBL's nonstop action starts, it is impossible to turn away until the final bell."
EnvoyTV's distribution partners include Charter's Spectrum, the nation's #1 cable provider, with systemwide distribution across 41 markets including top ranked markets, New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas, as well as national provider Frndly TV. EnvoyFAST is available nationwide on platforms including Samsung TV Plus, Vidaa/Hisense, and Local Now. This partnership marks a major milestone in TBL's continued growth, delivering unprecedented access, expanded programming, and a new level of production quality for fans of team-based professional boxing.
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Team Combat League rebrands as Team Boxing League
Team Boxing League ("TBL"), formerly known as Team Combat League, announced a multi-year agreement with Envoy Media Co., the new media company led by Dr. Phil McGraw, to serve as the league's official producing partner and media hub platform beginning with TBL's fourth season, which launched over the weekend. Under the agreement, all TBL match coverage, studio programming, and original content will be produced from Envoy Media Co.'s state-of-the-art television studios in Dallas, Texas. Envoy will produce, promote, and distribute more than 70 weekly hours of TBL programming, including live matches, encore presentations, classic telecasts, and an all-original studio show alongside additional shoulder content.
The comprehensive programming schedule will air across Envoy's flagship platforms, EnvoyTV (pay cable - MVPD/VMVPD) and EnvoyFAST, delivering a complementary viewing experience with a combined reach of more than 120 million TV households and connected devices. TBL coverage on EnvoyFAST will also be accessible via the EnvoyTV App, further expanding availability to digital audiences nationwide.
"We are thrilled to partner with Envoy Media as we enter an exciting new chapter for TBL," said Kevin Cassidy, CEO of TBL Team Boxing League. "Dr Phil and Envoy's commitment to the highest quality production, expansive distribution across all popular content platforms, and innovative original programming makes them the ideal partner to bring our fast-paced, team-based format to fans across the country."
"TBL Team Boxing League is quickly proving one of the most exciting and fantastically disruptive innovations in all of professional sports," said Ken Solomon, President and CEO of Envoy Media. "The league's 24-round, three-minute per matchup format means that for boxing fans new and old, the first time ever, every round is the deciding round. TBL's dual-gender open team tryouts and three live match days per week take one of the most universal and beloved sports to a whole new level, and its all-out format is tailor-made for broad, cross platform media consumption. Once TBL's nonstop action starts, it is impossible to turn away until the final bell."
EnvoyTV's distribution partners include Charter's Spectrum, the nation's #1 cable provider, with systemwide distribution across 41 markets including top ranked markets, New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas, as well as national provider Frndly TV. EnvoyFAST is available nationwide on platforms including Samsung TV Plus, Vidaa/Hisense, and Local Now. This partnership marks a major milestone in TBL's continued growth, delivering unprecedented access, expanded programming, and a new level of production quality for fans of team-based professional boxing.
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Salita to co-promote Leo vs. Aleem title fight in May |
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Salita Promotions announced a world title fight coming in a few weeks: "May 9th, we’re bringing the action to Atlanta. Angelo Leo vs. Reese Aleem for the IBF featherweight championship." Salita Promotions apparently made a deal with Manny Pacquiao Promotions to bring the fight to Atlanta. In February, the IBF held a purse bid for featherweight champion Angelo Leo’s mandatory defense against Aleem. The winning bid was in the amount of $227,100 and was submitted by Aleem’s promoter, Sean Gibbons of Manny Pacquiao Promotions. Under IBF rules, Manny Pacquiao Promotions had to hold the fight within ninety days.
Aleem is 23-1 and is riding a streak of three straight high-quality wins since a split decision loss to Sam Goodman in Goodman’s native Australia. Aleem’s last outing was a unanimous decision road win over previously undefeated Mikito Nakano in Tokyo last November. Leo, from New Mexico, is a two-division champion with a 26-1 pro record. He won the title by knocking out the favored Luis Alberto Lopez in 2024. Leo defended his title only once since then, defeating Tomoki Kameda in Japan in May. Leo's only career loss was to then-WBO 122-pound champion Stephen Fulton in 2021.
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Salita to co-promote Leo vs. Aleem title fight in May
Salita Promotions announced a world title fight coming in a few weeks: "May 9th, we’re bringing the action to Atlanta. Angelo Leo vs. Reese Aleem for the IBF featherweight championship." Salita Promotions apparently made a deal with Manny Pacquiao Promotions to bring the fight to Atlanta. In February, the IBF held a purse bid for featherweight champion Angelo Leo’s mandatory defense against Aleem. The winning bid was in the amount of $227,100 and was submitted by Aleem’s promoter, Sean Gibbons of Manny Pacquiao Promotions. Under IBF rules, Manny Pacquiao Promotions had to hold the fight within ninety days.
Aleem is 23-1 and is riding a streak of three straight high-quality wins since a split decision loss to Sam Goodman in Goodman’s native Australia. Aleem’s last outing was a unanimous decision road win over previously undefeated Mikito Nakano in Tokyo last November. Leo, from New Mexico, is a two-division champion with a 26-1 pro record. He won the title by knocking out the favored Luis Alberto Lopez in 2024. Leo defended his title only once since then, defeating Tomoki Kameda in Japan in May. Leo's only career loss was to then-WBO 122-pound champion Stephen Fulton in 2021.
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ProBox back in California this Saturday |
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This Saturday, March 28th, (6:00 pm EDT/3:00 pm PDT) ProBoxTV returns to Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, for an early edition of “The Contender Series” boxing.Presented by Robert Garcia, Garry Jonas (Pro Box Promotions), and Sampson Lewkowicz (Sampson Boxing), in the ten-round bantamweight main event, comebacking Mexican warrior Bryan “Latino” Acosta (20-2, 8 KOs) will collide with longtime contender Ronny Rios (34-5, 17 KOs) of Santa Ana, California, in a crossroads battle with career fortunes on the line. And in the ten-round lightweight co-featured bout, all-action Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Giron (22-5, 13 KOs) of Queretaro, Mexico, will face power punching “Mayhem” Maliek Montgomery (20-2, 18 KOs) of Las Vegas via Macon, Georgia
Future Stars series action will start the night with several competitive matchups: In an eight-round junior welterweight showdown, Leonardo Rubalcava (10-1-1, 4 KOs) of Jurupa Valley, California via Jalisco, Mexico, will take on Juan Antonio Llanes (12-2-1, 7 KOs) of Culiacan, Mexico.... In a six-round junior middleweight battle, KJ Waialae (3-0, 2 KOs) of Hawaii, goes to war with knockout punching Monray Marable (2-0, 2 KOs) of Lancaster, California.... And to get the ball rolling in a four-round lightweight matchup with some international flair, Cooper O'Connell (3-0, 3 KOs) of Queensland, Australia will make his North American debut against Jorge Garcia Manrriquez (2-0, 2 KOs) of Baja California, Mexico.
“We just did [an interim] championship fight, now we’re shifting gears to a throwback night of ‘make or break’ action fights,” said ProBoxTV CEO and Founder, Garry Jonas. “These shows are where many of our best fights happen. 50/50 matchups with careers possibly on the line tend to bring the best out of both fighters. Ronny Rios is coming off a championship loss to Nick Ball, so it’s ‘do or die’ for him. Bryan Acosta is also coming off tough losses to Ramon Cardenas and Sulaiman Segawa. He’s in a ‘now or never’ position too.
“Our co-main could have easily been the main event. Rene Tellez just had a great performance against Jordan White. He’s looking to keep his momentum going. Maliek Montgomery is coming off a tough loss where he threw 1000 punches. This is another ‘must win’ fight for both guys and a guaranteed all-action fight.
“Plus, we got some young studs on the Future Stars portion of the show. KJ Waialae is back. Cooper O'Connell is making his debut from Australia. I’m looking forward to seeing them fight as well.”
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ProBox back in California this Saturday
This Saturday, March 28th, (6:00 pm EDT/3:00 pm PDT) ProBoxTV returns to Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, for an early edition of “The Contender Series” boxing.Presented by Robert Garcia, Garry Jonas (Pro Box Promotions), and Sampson Lewkowicz (Sampson Boxing), in the ten-round bantamweight main event, comebacking Mexican warrior Bryan “Latino” Acosta (20-2, 8 KOs) will collide with longtime contender Ronny Rios (34-5, 17 KOs) of Santa Ana, California, in a crossroads battle with career fortunes on the line. And in the ten-round lightweight co-featured bout, all-action Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Giron (22-5, 13 KOs) of Queretaro, Mexico, will face power punching “Mayhem” Maliek Montgomery (20-2, 18 KOs) of Las Vegas via Macon, Georgia
Future Stars series action will start the night with several competitive matchups: In an eight-round junior welterweight showdown, Leonardo Rubalcava (10-1-1, 4 KOs) of Jurupa Valley, California via Jalisco, Mexico, will take on Juan Antonio Llanes (12-2-1, 7 KOs) of Culiacan, Mexico.... In a six-round junior middleweight battle, KJ Waialae (3-0, 2 KOs) of Hawaii, goes to war with knockout punching Monray Marable (2-0, 2 KOs) of Lancaster, California.... And to get the ball rolling in a four-round lightweight matchup with some international flair, Cooper O'Connell (3-0, 3 KOs) of Queensland, Australia will make his North American debut against Jorge Garcia Manrriquez (2-0, 2 KOs) of Baja California, Mexico.
“We just did [an interim] championship fight, now we’re shifting gears to a throwback night of ‘make or break’ action fights,” said ProBoxTV CEO and Founder, Garry Jonas. “These shows are where many of our best fights happen. 50/50 matchups with careers possibly on the line tend to bring the best out of both fighters. Ronny Rios is coming off a championship loss to Nick Ball, so it’s ‘do or die’ for him. Bryan Acosta is also coming off tough losses to Ramon Cardenas and Sulaiman Segawa. He’s in a ‘now or never’ position too.
“Our co-main could have easily been the main event. Rene Tellez just had a great performance against Jordan White. He’s looking to keep his momentum going. Maliek Montgomery is coming off a tough loss where he threw 1000 punches. This is another ‘must win’ fight for both guys and a guaranteed all-action fight.
“Plus, we got some young studs on the Future Stars portion of the show. KJ Waialae is back. Cooper O'Connell is making his debut from Australia. I’m looking forward to seeing them fight as well.”
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Zuffa-friendly Ali Act amendment moves forward |
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Press release from U.S. Congressional representative Shanice Davids, a supporter of the controversial amendment to the Muhammad Ali Act, the U.S. federal statute that governs boxing: "Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Brian Jack (R-GA-03) that modernizes and strengthens protections for professional fighters across the country.
"This legislation modernizes the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act to protect athletes at every stage of their careers and represents Davids’ fourth bipartisan bill to pass in a Republican-controlled Washington during President Trump’s second term.
"The bipartisan legislation — which is endorsed by Lonnie Ali, widow of Muhammad Ali and longtime advocate for boxing and athlete rights — establishes baseline standards for pay, strengthens health and safety requirements, and creates additional pathways for fighters to compete and build their careers. Importantly, the bill gives fighters more choice and flexibility. They can continue operating under existing structures if that works best for them, while also benefiting from stronger protections and clearer rules.
"The legislation reflects Davids’ commitment to fairness, opportunity, and accountability in American sports, drawing on her personal experience as a former Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter. Having stepped into the ring herself, she understands firsthand the physical risks fighters take, the importance of clear contracts, and the need for strong health and safety protections."
Speech by Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) delivered on the House Floor in support of H.R. 4624, Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to modernize professional boxing, strengthen fighter protections, and restore integrity to the sport:
“For much of the 20th century, boxing stood at the heart of American sports and culture. It gave us legends like Christy Martin, Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Robinson, Jack Dempsey, and Muhammad Ali. But the sport today looks very different. For too long, professional boxing has operated under an outdated patchwork of regulations that leaves fighters vulnerable to injury, exploitation, and limited opportunity.
“The Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act would bring the sport into the modern era. This bipartisan legislation would create new frameworks to enhance safety standards, expand opportunities for fighters, and restore integrity to the sport—revitalizing one of America’s most iconic sports.
“This bipartisan bill would allow Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs) to operate alongside existing sanctioning bodies. That means more options for fighters and more choice in how they compete. For boxers fighting within UBOs, the bill would strengthen health and safety protections.
“The legislation also extends stronger safety protections and increases wages for all professional boxers—whether they compete inside or outside a UBO. In short, the bill gives boxers more choice, better pay, and stronger safety protections, while encouraging the growth and modernization of this historic sport.
Muhammad Ali once said, 'don’t count the days; make the days count.' Today we have the opportunity to make this day count—for the fighters who step into the ring, for the future of this sport, and for the integrity of competition itself. For these reasons, I urge my colleagues to vote yes on H.R. 4624.”
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Zuffa-friendly Ali Act amendment moves forward
Press release from U.S. Congressional representative Shanice Davids, a supporter of the controversial amendment to the Muhammad Ali Act, the U.S. federal statute that governs boxing: "Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Brian Jack (R-GA-03) that modernizes and strengthens protections for professional fighters across the country.
"This legislation modernizes the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act to protect athletes at every stage of their careers and represents Davids’ fourth bipartisan bill to pass in a Republican-controlled Washington during President Trump’s second term.
"The bipartisan legislation — which is endorsed by Lonnie Ali, widow of Muhammad Ali and longtime advocate for boxing and athlete rights — establishes baseline standards for pay, strengthens health and safety requirements, and creates additional pathways for fighters to compete and build their careers. Importantly, the bill gives fighters more choice and flexibility. They can continue operating under existing structures if that works best for them, while also benefiting from stronger protections and clearer rules.
"The legislation reflects Davids’ commitment to fairness, opportunity, and accountability in American sports, drawing on her personal experience as a former Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter. Having stepped into the ring herself, she understands firsthand the physical risks fighters take, the importance of clear contracts, and the need for strong health and safety protections."
Speech by Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) delivered on the House Floor in support of H.R. 4624, Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to modernize professional boxing, strengthen fighter protections, and restore integrity to the sport:
“For much of the 20th century, boxing stood at the heart of American sports and culture. It gave us legends like Christy Martin, Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Robinson, Jack Dempsey, and Muhammad Ali. But the sport today looks very different. For too long, professional boxing has operated under an outdated patchwork of regulations that leaves fighters vulnerable to injury, exploitation, and limited opportunity.
“The Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act would bring the sport into the modern era. This bipartisan legislation would create new frameworks to enhance safety standards, expand opportunities for fighters, and restore integrity to the sport—revitalizing one of America’s most iconic sports.
“This bipartisan bill would allow Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs) to operate alongside existing sanctioning bodies. That means more options for fighters and more choice in how they compete. For boxers fighting within UBOs, the bill would strengthen health and safety protections.
“The legislation also extends stronger safety protections and increases wages for all professional boxers—whether they compete inside or outside a UBO. In short, the bill gives boxers more choice, better pay, and stronger safety protections, while encouraging the growth and modernization of this historic sport.
Muhammad Ali once said, 'don’t count the days; make the days count.' Today we have the opportunity to make this day count—for the fighters who step into the ring, for the future of this sport, and for the integrity of competition itself. For these reasons, I urge my colleagues to vote yes on H.R. 4624.”
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Iwata title win changed from decision to TKO |
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The WBC reported that, following a technical review, the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) has officially amended the result of the WBC 108-pound title bout held on March 15th. Following a formal petition issued by the WBC on March 19th, the JBC initiated a comprehensive investigation as there was clear video evidence compelling a chnage in result of Shokichi Iwata (pictured) vs. Thammanoon Niyomtrong a/k/a Knockout CP Freshmart. The final investigation report—signed by JBC Executive Secretary Tsuyoshi Yasukochi and endorsed by a panel of seven officials and specialists changed the result from a technical decision win for Iwata to a technical knockout.
After a meticulous frame-by-frame review, it was determined that the cut above Knockout CP Freshmart’s left eye was caused by a legal right hook landed by Iwata at approximately the 0:55 mark of the fourth round. The investigation concluded that no headbutt contributed to the injury; rather, the wound was the direct result of a legal and effective punch. Because the fight stoppage in the eighth round was a direct consequence of the injury caused by a legal blow, the JBC has ruled it appropriate to amend the official result from a Technical Decision (TD) to a Technical Knockout (TKO) in favor of Shokichi Iwata. This outcome reaffirms the critical importance of technology in modern officiating. The WBC celebrates the Japan Boxing Commission’s commitment to the active implementation of Instant Replay—a tool the WBC has championed globally to ensure fairness and transparency in the ring.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
March 15, 2026: Japan's Shokichi Iwata secured the WBC junior flyweight title by dethroning two-division champion Thammanoon Niyomtrong a/k/a Knockout CP Freshmart via eighth-round technical decision. Iwata (16-2) is now a two-time champ at 108 pounds, having briefly held the WBO belt in 2024 and 2025. From the opening bell, Iwata set a relentless pace. Utilizing an aggressive style built around constant pressure and straight armed combinations, he successfully controlled the distance against the shorter Thai. Freshmart (29-2), one of the division’s most respected figures, attempted to use his lateral movement to neutralize the onslaught but the fight’s intensity began to take its toll. Round after round, Iwata’s precision inflicted increasing and worsening accumulated damage on Freshmart’s face, specifically targeting the area around the left eye. The turning point came when Freshmart suffered a deep laceration above that eye. Blood flow became a decisive factor; although the Thai fighter battled on valiantly, the clarity of his vision was severely compromised as the bout progressed. At the end of the eighth round, the ringside physician examined the injury and determined it was unsafe for Freshmart to continue. Per WBC regulations, since more than four rounds had been completed, the result went to the scorecards. The judges were in total agreement, awarding Iwata a unanimous technical decision, that reflected his dominance throughout the contest.
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Iwata title win changed from decision to TKO
The WBC reported that, following a technical review, the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) has officially amended the result of the WBC 108-pound title bout held on March 15th. Following a formal petition issued by the WBC on March 19th, the JBC initiated a comprehensive investigation as there was clear video evidence compelling a chnage in result of Shokichi Iwata (pictured) vs. Thammanoon Niyomtrong a/k/a Knockout CP Freshmart. The final investigation report—signed by JBC Executive Secretary Tsuyoshi Yasukochi and endorsed by a panel of seven officials and specialists changed the result from a technical decision win for Iwata to a technical knockout.
After a meticulous frame-by-frame review, it was determined that the cut above Knockout CP Freshmart’s left eye was caused by a legal right hook landed by Iwata at approximately the 0:55 mark of the fourth round. The investigation concluded that no headbutt contributed to the injury; rather, the wound was the direct result of a legal and effective punch. Because the fight stoppage in the eighth round was a direct consequence of the injury caused by a legal blow, the JBC has ruled it appropriate to amend the official result from a Technical Decision (TD) to a Technical Knockout (TKO) in favor of Shokichi Iwata. This outcome reaffirms the critical importance of technology in modern officiating. The WBC celebrates the Japan Boxing Commission’s commitment to the active implementation of Instant Replay—a tool the WBC has championed globally to ensure fairness and transparency in the ring.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
March 15, 2026: Japan's Shokichi Iwata secured the WBC junior flyweight title by dethroning two-division champion Thammanoon Niyomtrong a/k/a Knockout CP Freshmart via eighth-round technical decision. Iwata (16-2) is now a two-time champ at 108 pounds, having briefly held the WBO belt in 2024 and 2025. From the opening bell, Iwata set a relentless pace. Utilizing an aggressive style built around constant pressure and straight armed combinations, he successfully controlled the distance against the shorter Thai. Freshmart (29-2), one of the division’s most respected figures, attempted to use his lateral movement to neutralize the onslaught but the fight’s intensity began to take its toll. Round after round, Iwata’s precision inflicted increasing and worsening accumulated damage on Freshmart’s face, specifically targeting the area around the left eye. The turning point came when Freshmart suffered a deep laceration above that eye. Blood flow became a decisive factor; although the Thai fighter battled on valiantly, the clarity of his vision was severely compromised as the bout progressed. At the end of the eighth round, the ringside physician examined the injury and determined it was unsafe for Freshmart to continue. Per WBC regulations, since more than four rounds had been completed, the result went to the scorecards. The judges were in total agreement, awarding Iwata a unanimous technical decision, that reflected his dominance throughout the contest.
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Is MMA legend Jon Jones considering bare knuckle fighting? |
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UFC legend Jon Jones has officially partnered with the IBA bare knuckle project as a global ambassador. Jones has not fought since 2024 and retired from the UFC last year even though he was that organization's reigning heavyweight champion. [Editor's note: It is believed Jones' retirement was motivated by UFC's failure to meet his monetary demands]. Jones is set to attend the IBA bare knuckle show this weekend in Saint Petersburg, Russia, where he will serve as a guest co-host.
According to the IBA: "The partnership represents a significant milestone for both the fighter and the rapidly growing bare-knuckle boxing industry. Following a period of transition in his professional career, the veteran champion is now charting a new course as part of the global IBA bare knuckle project. IBA emphasized its commitment to providing a premier platform for elite talent, positioning itself as an ecosystem where world-class athletes are afforded the highest level of professional respect and opportunity."
The IBA's press release contained the following quote from Jones: "I am proud to join the IBA bare knuckle league as a global ambassador. On March 28th, I’ll be co-hosting my first event in Saint Petersburg. Unlike other organizations, IBA bare knuckle provides a real platform for champions to shape the future of the sport. I want to thank [IBA president] Umar Kremlev for this opportunity—together, we are building a new global era for bare-knuckle fighting.”
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Is MMA legend Jon Jones considering bare knuckle fighting?
UFC legend Jon Jones has officially partnered with the IBA bare knuckle project as a global ambassador. Jones has not fought since 2024 and retired from the UFC last year even though he was that organization's reigning heavyweight champion. [Editor's note: It is believed Jones' retirement was motivated by UFC's failure to meet his monetary demands]. Jones is set to attend the IBA bare knuckle show this weekend in Saint Petersburg, Russia, where he will serve as a guest co-host.
According to the IBA: "The partnership represents a significant milestone for both the fighter and the rapidly growing bare-knuckle boxing industry. Following a period of transition in his professional career, the veteran champion is now charting a new course as part of the global IBA bare knuckle project. IBA emphasized its commitment to providing a premier platform for elite talent, positioning itself as an ecosystem where world-class athletes are afforded the highest level of professional respect and opportunity."
The IBA's press release contained the following quote from Jones: "I am proud to join the IBA bare knuckle league as a global ambassador. On March 28th, I’ll be co-hosting my first event in Saint Petersburg. Unlike other organizations, IBA bare knuckle provides a real platform for champions to shape the future of the sport. I want to thank [IBA president] Umar Kremlev for this opportunity—together, we are building a new global era for bare-knuckle fighting.”
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Golden Boy and DAZN come to terms |
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It was announced on Tuesday that Golden Boy Promotions and DAZN have reached an exclusive, multi-year deal for Golden Boy to deliver boxing content to the streaming service that bills itself the global home of boxing. DAZN called it an extension of the prior agreement, wording no doubt designed to assist Golden Boy in its legal battle against star junior middleweight Vergil Ortiz Jr. [The last contract between Golden Boy and DAZN expired a few months ago, and Ortiz claims the legal right to leave Golden Boy if its DAZN deal ended. An arbitrator will have to decide whether DAZN and Golden Boy extended their old agreement or entered into a new one].
Building on a partnership established in 2018, this extension brings the collaboration to nearly a decade, and features a medley of pay-per-views, championship fights and a contender series with a roster featuring WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia, unified cruiserweight champion Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez, undisputed women's world flyweight champion Gabriela Fundora, unified minimumweight champion Oscar Collazo and lightweight contender Floyd Schofield.
With three events in the books during the first quarter of 2026, the momentum continues into the second quarter of 2026 on Saturday, May 2nd, with a blockbuster Cinco de Mayo event live from Las Vegas featuring Ramirez vs. undefeated light heavyweight title holder David Benavidez on DAZN pay-per-view.
“We’re firing on all cylinders right now,” Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya said in a statement. “No one builds champions like we do. It’s a special formula mixed with a fighter’s talent, discipline and star power. As we approach a decade with DAZN, we’re going to keep setting the tone for the sport in 2026 and shaping the future of boxing.”
"We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Golden Boy,” Pete Oliver, CEO Global Sports, DAZN, also said in a statement. “Oscar and the team consistently deliver world‑class events and develop some of the most exciting talent in boxing. This renewed agreement strengthens our shared commitment to growing the sport globally and giving fans unmatched access to unforgettable fight nights. We’re excited for what comes next."
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Golden Boy and DAZN come to terms
It was announced on Tuesday that Golden Boy Promotions and DAZN have reached an exclusive, multi-year deal for Golden Boy to deliver boxing content to the streaming service that bills itself the global home of boxing. DAZN called it an extension of the prior agreement, wording no doubt designed to assist Golden Boy in its legal battle against star junior middleweight Vergil Ortiz Jr. [The last contract between Golden Boy and DAZN expired a few months ago, and Ortiz claims the legal right to leave Golden Boy if its DAZN deal ended. An arbitrator will have to decide whether DAZN and Golden Boy extended their old agreement or entered into a new one].
Building on a partnership established in 2018, this extension brings the collaboration to nearly a decade, and features a medley of pay-per-views, championship fights and a contender series with a roster featuring WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia, unified cruiserweight champion Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez, undisputed women's world flyweight champion Gabriela Fundora, unified minimumweight champion Oscar Collazo and lightweight contender Floyd Schofield.
With three events in the books during the first quarter of 2026, the momentum continues into the second quarter of 2026 on Saturday, May 2nd, with a blockbuster Cinco de Mayo event live from Las Vegas featuring Ramirez vs. undefeated light heavyweight title holder David Benavidez on DAZN pay-per-view.
“We’re firing on all cylinders right now,” Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya said in a statement. “No one builds champions like we do. It’s a special formula mixed with a fighter’s talent, discipline and star power. As we approach a decade with DAZN, we’re going to keep setting the tone for the sport in 2026 and shaping the future of boxing.”
"We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Golden Boy,” Pete Oliver, CEO Global Sports, DAZN, also said in a statement. “Oscar and the team consistently deliver world‑class events and develop some of the most exciting talent in boxing. This renewed agreement strengthens our shared commitment to growing the sport globally and giving fans unmatched access to unforgettable fight nights. We’re excited for what comes next."
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PBC Opening Bell debuts today |
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Wednesday marks the debut of PBC Opening Bell, a live streamed show that will preview Saturday's pay-per-view boxing action in Las Vegas with special guests and interviews with the main event fighters. PBC Opening Bell: Fundora vs. Thurman will be co-hosted by hip-hop artist Cam’ron, Treasure “Stat Baby” Wilson and veteran boxing journalist Sean Zittel. The event, which will be open to the public, streams live from MGM Grand beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The event will promote the March 28th boxing card at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, headlined by Sebastian Fundora defending his junior middleweight title against ex-welterweight champ Keith Thurman.
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PBC Opening Bell debuts today
Wednesday marks the debut of PBC Opening Bell, a live streamed show that will preview Saturday's pay-per-view boxing action in Las Vegas with special guests and interviews with the main event fighters. PBC Opening Bell: Fundora vs. Thurman will be co-hosted by hip-hop artist Cam’ron, Treasure “Stat Baby” Wilson and veteran boxing journalist Sean Zittel. The event, which will be open to the public, streams live from MGM Grand beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The event will promote the March 28th boxing card at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, headlined by Sebastian Fundora defending his junior middleweight title against ex-welterweight champ Keith Thurman.
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Lopez returning to Box Fan Expo |
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Two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez will appear at the Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 2nd. BoxFan Expo will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the weekend of the cruiserweight title fight between Gilbero "Zurdo" Ramirez and David Benavidez, which is scheduled to take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena. Lopez will hold a meet-and-greet for fans at his booth. Lopez will be making his fifth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia with merchandise for sale as well.
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online. Jones will be making his sixth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. He will also have merchandise to sell. Lopez joins Thomas Hearns, Shane Mosley, James Toney, Roy Jones, José Luis Castillo, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera as stars who have commited to appear at this year’s Box Fan Expo.
Lopez is an American professional boxer and a two-division world champion. He represented his parent’s native country, Honduras, at the 2016 Summer Olympics. As a pro, Lopez is a former undisputed world lightweight champion. He held the IBF title from December 2019 to November 2021 and defeated pound-for-pound great Vasyl Lomachenko on October 17, 2020 to become the true world champion at 135 pounds. This monumental victory over Lomachenko, alongside winning two lineal titles by the age of 25, propelled Lopez into a true boxing star, as well as being the youngest four-belt champion in boxing history.
Lopez then moved up in weight to 140 pounds and defeated Pedro Campa on August 13th, 2022. In June 2023, he became a two-division world champion by defeating Josh Taylor. Lopez dominated the fight. This achievement was followed by Lopez retaining his world championship vs. Jamaine Ortiz on February 8, 2024. He then followed with another win four months later, defeating Steve Claggett. On May 2, 2025, Lopez showcased his incredible skills once again with a win in Times Square, New York over previously undefeated Arnold Barboza Jr. On January 31, 2026, Lopez headlined a mega fight, losing to Shakur Stevenson.
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Lopez returning to Box Fan Expo
Two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez will appear at the Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 2nd. BoxFan Expo will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the weekend of the cruiserweight title fight between Gilbero "Zurdo" Ramirez and David Benavidez, which is scheduled to take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena. Lopez will hold a meet-and-greet for fans at his booth. Lopez will be making his fifth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia with merchandise for sale as well.
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online. Jones will be making his sixth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. He will also have merchandise to sell. Lopez joins Thomas Hearns, Shane Mosley, James Toney, Roy Jones, José Luis Castillo, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera as stars who have commited to appear at this year’s Box Fan Expo.
Lopez is an American professional boxer and a two-division world champion. He represented his parent’s native country, Honduras, at the 2016 Summer Olympics. As a pro, Lopez is a former undisputed world lightweight champion. He held the IBF title from December 2019 to November 2021 and defeated pound-for-pound great Vasyl Lomachenko on October 17, 2020 to become the true world champion at 135 pounds. This monumental victory over Lomachenko, alongside winning two lineal titles by the age of 25, propelled Lopez into a true boxing star, as well as being the youngest four-belt champion in boxing history.
Lopez then moved up in weight to 140 pounds and defeated Pedro Campa on August 13th, 2022. In June 2023, he became a two-division world champion by defeating Josh Taylor. Lopez dominated the fight. This achievement was followed by Lopez retaining his world championship vs. Jamaine Ortiz on February 8, 2024. He then followed with another win four months later, defeating Steve Claggett. On May 2, 2025, Lopez showcased his incredible skills once again with a win in Times Square, New York over previously undefeated Arnold Barboza Jr. On January 31, 2026, Lopez headlined a mega fight, losing to Shakur Stevenson.
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It's fight week in South Africa |
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In an unusually cordial scene for a high‑stakes boxing week, the fighters set to feature in this weekend’s South African boxing event met face‑to‑face, and the mood was strikingly respectful. Instead of icy stares or verbal barbs, there were hugs, handshakes, and a shared sense of professionalism that set the tone for an electric Saturday night at Emperors Palace. Headline attraction Roarke Knapp (19-3-1), carrying his toddler in his arms throughout parts of the engagement, appeared relaxed and confident after returning from an intense UK training camp split between Wales and Liverpool. He spoke openly about the work he has put in for his third meeting with rival junior middleweight Brandon Thysse (19-4-1).
“The moment I heard about the fight, I got my arse in the gym,” Knapp said, acknowledging the danger Thysse brings after their gruelling 19 rounds shared across two previous bouts.
Thysse, calm and composed, responded with equal conviction.“I know the way he fights, there won’t be many surprises,” he said, hinting at a deep familiarity that could define the trilogy’s outcome. Both athletes arrived looking shredded and razor‑focused, emblematic of the wider field’s determination to steal the show.
Another storyline generating real buzz is the all‑Thysse clash for the nation's light heavyweight championship, where Bryan Thysse (7-0-1) defends against his cousin, Gerhard Thysse (4-0). Despite the family ties, Bryan’s trainer Damien Durandt made it clear there will be no sentimentality in the ring. “There’s no love,” he declared flatly, underscoring the seriousness with which the camp is approaching the showdown.
A poignant moment came when Boxing SA CEO Mandla Ntlanganiso formally honoured the two South African champions on the card - Bryan and Brandon Thysse - presenting them with their championship belts.The gesture drew warm applause and lent ceremonial weight to an already compelling tournament narrative. Emotions were heightened even further when it was revealed that it was their late father Andre’s birthday, a remarkable coincidence. Moreover, it transpired that Andre had been a crucial driver of Knapp’s early career, a twist that only adds to the many storylines around this intriguing showdown.
Golden Gloves promoter Rodney Berman was in buoyant mood, declaring that the months ahead will usher in: “Without a doubt, the greatest festival of boxing we’ve seen since the days of the great Dingaan Thobela and the Lennox Lewis–Hasim Rahman spectacular.” His enthusiasm reflects the momentum boxing has regained locally in recent years.
Among the most intriguing face‑offs was that between heavyweights Jose Kadima and Brazil’s Mateus Munhoz Da Penha. Both men towered over the room, smiling with a brand of menace that promises fireworks when the bell rings. Their physical presence alone hinted at a potential showstopper.
Young Ethan Peters, chasing his second professional win, carried himself with the sort of confidence and energy fans have already come to enjoy. His enthusiasm may be infectious, but, as he made clear, come Saturday it will be “all business”.
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It's fight week in South Africa
In an unusually cordial scene for a high‑stakes boxing week, the fighters set to feature in this weekend’s South African boxing event met face‑to‑face, and the mood was strikingly respectful. Instead of icy stares or verbal barbs, there were hugs, handshakes, and a shared sense of professionalism that set the tone for an electric Saturday night at Emperors Palace. Headline attraction Roarke Knapp (19-3-1), carrying his toddler in his arms throughout parts of the engagement, appeared relaxed and confident after returning from an intense UK training camp split between Wales and Liverpool. He spoke openly about the work he has put in for his third meeting with rival junior middleweight Brandon Thysse (19-4-1).
“The moment I heard about the fight, I got my arse in the gym,” Knapp said, acknowledging the danger Thysse brings after their gruelling 19 rounds shared across two previous bouts.
Thysse, calm and composed, responded with equal conviction.“I know the way he fights, there won’t be many surprises,” he said, hinting at a deep familiarity that could define the trilogy’s outcome. Both athletes arrived looking shredded and razor‑focused, emblematic of the wider field’s determination to steal the show.
Another storyline generating real buzz is the all‑Thysse clash for the nation's light heavyweight championship, where Bryan Thysse (7-0-1) defends against his cousin, Gerhard Thysse (4-0). Despite the family ties, Bryan’s trainer Damien Durandt made it clear there will be no sentimentality in the ring. “There’s no love,” he declared flatly, underscoring the seriousness with which the camp is approaching the showdown.
A poignant moment came when Boxing SA CEO Mandla Ntlanganiso formally honoured the two South African champions on the card - Bryan and Brandon Thysse - presenting them with their championship belts.The gesture drew warm applause and lent ceremonial weight to an already compelling tournament narrative. Emotions were heightened even further when it was revealed that it was their late father Andre’s birthday, a remarkable coincidence. Moreover, it transpired that Andre had been a crucial driver of Knapp’s early career, a twist that only adds to the many storylines around this intriguing showdown.
Golden Gloves promoter Rodney Berman was in buoyant mood, declaring that the months ahead will usher in: “Without a doubt, the greatest festival of boxing we’ve seen since the days of the great Dingaan Thobela and the Lennox Lewis–Hasim Rahman spectacular.” His enthusiasm reflects the momentum boxing has regained locally in recent years.
Among the most intriguing face‑offs was that between heavyweights Jose Kadima and Brazil’s Mateus Munhoz Da Penha. Both men towered over the room, smiling with a brand of menace that promises fireworks when the bell rings. Their physical presence alone hinted at a potential showstopper.
Young Ethan Peters, chasing his second professional win, carried himself with the sort of confidence and energy fans have already come to enjoy. His enthusiasm may be infectious, but, as he made clear, come Saturday it will be “all business”.
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Dalton Smith to defend vs. Alberto Puello |
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England's Steel City King is back with Dalton Smith’s Sheffield return officially set for Saturday, June 6th when he defends his WBC junior welterweight championship for the first time against ex-titlist Alberto Puello (and former PED user) live on DAZN. Sheffield Utilita Arena will play host to what promises to be yet another special night in the Steel City as the 29-year-old takes on the Dominican southpaw. Puello is desperate to reclaim the world honors he surrendered in a majority decision defeat to Subriel Matias in July last year. Matias didn’t hold the hardware for long, as Smith swooped in back in January to deliver one of the most memorable away victories in British boxing history.
‘Thunder’ Smith realised his boyhood dream of becoming a world champion, leaving the Barclays Center in Brooklyn with a stunning stoppage to end a breathtaking firefight with a ferocious fifth-round knockout. Now Smith (19-0, 14 KOs) wants to put Puello (24-1, 10 KOs) to task and ensure a happy homecoming in front of his legion of fans. “New York was a trip of a lifetime, but now it’s about bringing big world Title fights to Sheffield and it’s great to start my reign as champion back at the Utilita Arena,” said Smith. “It’s straight into a mandatory defence so you expect world class opponents. There’s no denying Puello’s a top boxer. He’s a two-time champion for a reason. But I went to New York as the away fighter, with all the outside-the-ring stuff going on, and
went toe-to-toe with the supposed bogeyman who had just beaten Puello – but that’s what we’re about in Sheffield: full of heart and nuts of steel. Puello’s an awkward southpaw, but it’s well known I love that style. It’ll be a big performance from me in my homecoming. I’ve had many special nights already at the Utilita Arena. The atmosphere will be rocking and I can’t wait to see everyone there on June 6th – or tune in live on DAZN.”
Tickets go on sale to Matchroom Boxing Fight Pass members this Thursday before General Sale on Friday.
A hungry Puello, however, is determined to spoil the party for Smith in his bid to become a three-time champion. “I’m excited to be fighting for my title again on June 6th,” said Puello. "I’m looking forward to becoming a three-time World champion and making history in the United Kingdom in front of its wonderful fan base. Smith a good boxer. I’m excited to share the ring with him and give the fans a great fight.”
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn is looking forward to a huge event in Sheffield – and he expects fireworks . “This is another mega fight coming to British shores – and another one for fight fans to enjoy on the global home of boxing, DAZN,” said Hearn. “Dalton’s win in Brooklyn will live long in the memory. It was an incredible night. Now he has the chance to cement his legacy and forge his name into folklore. Dalton is the Steel City King and Alberto Puello – a formidable, former two-time champion in his own right – will be in for one tough night with an electric atmosphere awaiting him in Sheffield.”
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Dalton Smith to defend vs. Alberto Puello
England's Steel City King is back with Dalton Smith’s Sheffield return officially set for Saturday, June 6th when he defends his WBC junior welterweight championship for the first time against ex-titlist Alberto Puello (and former PED user) live on DAZN. Sheffield Utilita Arena will play host to what promises to be yet another special night in the Steel City as the 29-year-old takes on the Dominican southpaw. Puello is desperate to reclaim the world honors he surrendered in a majority decision defeat to Subriel Matias in July last year. Matias didn’t hold the hardware for long, as Smith swooped in back in January to deliver one of the most memorable away victories in British boxing history.
‘Thunder’ Smith realised his boyhood dream of becoming a world champion, leaving the Barclays Center in Brooklyn with a stunning stoppage to end a breathtaking firefight with a ferocious fifth-round knockout. Now Smith (19-0, 14 KOs) wants to put Puello (24-1, 10 KOs) to task and ensure a happy homecoming in front of his legion of fans. “New York was a trip of a lifetime, but now it’s about bringing big world Title fights to Sheffield and it’s great to start my reign as champion back at the Utilita Arena,” said Smith. “It’s straight into a mandatory defence so you expect world class opponents. There’s no denying Puello’s a top boxer. He’s a two-time champion for a reason. But I went to New York as the away fighter, with all the outside-the-ring stuff going on, and
went toe-to-toe with the supposed bogeyman who had just beaten Puello – but that’s what we’re about in Sheffield: full of heart and nuts of steel. Puello’s an awkward southpaw, but it’s well known I love that style. It’ll be a big performance from me in my homecoming. I’ve had many special nights already at the Utilita Arena. The atmosphere will be rocking and I can’t wait to see everyone there on June 6th – or tune in live on DAZN.”
Tickets go on sale to Matchroom Boxing Fight Pass members this Thursday before General Sale on Friday.
A hungry Puello, however, is determined to spoil the party for Smith in his bid to become a three-time champion. “I’m excited to be fighting for my title again on June 6th,” said Puello. "I’m looking forward to becoming a three-time World champion and making history in the United Kingdom in front of its wonderful fan base. Smith a good boxer. I’m excited to share the ring with him and give the fans a great fight.”
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn is looking forward to a huge event in Sheffield – and he expects fireworks . “This is another mega fight coming to British shores – and another one for fight fans to enjoy on the global home of boxing, DAZN,” said Hearn. “Dalton’s win in Brooklyn will live long in the memory. It was an incredible night. Now he has the chance to cement his legacy and forge his name into folklore. Dalton is the Steel City King and Alberto Puello – a formidable, former two-time champion in his own right – will be in for one tough night with an electric atmosphere awaiting him in Sheffield.”
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Isis Sio emerges from coma |
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There is positive news out of California, where teenage boxer Isis Sio is fighting for her life after a first-round knockout loss over the weekend resulted in a brain injury and medically induced coma. Here is a statement issued by Sio's family and team: "Isis is a passionate, disciplined, and well-prepared athlete who carefully evaluates each opportunity placed before her. Her decision to compete on Saturday, March 21st against Jocelyn Camarillo was not made lightly, but rather thoughtfully reviewed and analyzed prior to acceptance. In reference to [criticism about how she could be allwed to take this fight after] her previous bout on January 30th [a KO loss] against Perla Bazaldua, the result was not due to a head-strike knockout. Instead, it was caused by a liver shot. As is well understood in boxing, a direct blow to the liver can trigger an involuntary physiological response (vasovagal syncope). Because the liver is highly vascularized and rich in nerve supply, such an impact can stimulate the vagus nerve — leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure and heartrate. This may result in temporary paralysis, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
"Please note, she was on a 45-day suspension and cleared before she accepted the fight with Jocelyn Camarillo. At this time, Isis remains in the intensive care unit, but she is off the ventilator and we are hopeful for her progression. We are awaiting further updates from her medical team. She is currently under the care of three specialized medical divisions who are closely monitoring her condition.We sincerely appreciate the continued support, thoughts, and prayers during this time."
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
MARCH 22, 2026: ProBox CEO Garry Jonas and the entire ProBox family are praying for a speedy recovery for Isis Sio. Following a first-round knockout loss to Jocelyn Camarillo on Saturday, Sio was placed in a medically induced coma. Just nineteen years old, Sio entered the junior flyweight bout with a 1-2 record. Boxingtalk joins ProBox in this statement: "Our thoughts are with her and her family at this very difficult time. Please join us in wishing for a full recovery."
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Isis Sio emerges from coma
There is positive news out of California, where teenage boxer Isis Sio is fighting for her life after a first-round knockout loss over the weekend resulted in a brain injury and medically induced coma. Here is a statement issued by Sio's family and team: "Isis is a passionate, disciplined, and well-prepared athlete who carefully evaluates each opportunity placed before her. Her decision to compete on Saturday, March 21st against Jocelyn Camarillo was not made lightly, but rather thoughtfully reviewed and analyzed prior to acceptance. In reference to [criticism about how she could be allwed to take this fight after] her previous bout on January 30th [a KO loss] against Perla Bazaldua, the result was not due to a head-strike knockout. Instead, it was caused by a liver shot. As is well understood in boxing, a direct blow to the liver can trigger an involuntary physiological response (vasovagal syncope). Because the liver is highly vascularized and rich in nerve supply, such an impact can stimulate the vagus nerve — leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure and heartrate. This may result in temporary paralysis, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
"Please note, she was on a 45-day suspension and cleared before she accepted the fight with Jocelyn Camarillo. At this time, Isis remains in the intensive care unit, but she is off the ventilator and we are hopeful for her progression. We are awaiting further updates from her medical team. She is currently under the care of three specialized medical divisions who are closely monitoring her condition.We sincerely appreciate the continued support, thoughts, and prayers during this time."
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
MARCH 22, 2026: ProBox CEO Garry Jonas and the entire ProBox family are praying for a speedy recovery for Isis Sio. Following a first-round knockout loss to Jocelyn Camarillo on Saturday, Sio was placed in a medically induced coma. Just nineteen years old, Sio entered the junior flyweight bout with a 1-2 record. Boxingtalk joins ProBox in this statement: "Our thoughts are with her and her family at this very difficult time. Please join us in wishing for a full recovery."
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Welcome to Fundora vs. Thurman fight week |
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One of the most unique boxing champions in recent memory, WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (pictured) has vexed nearly all of his opponents with outlandish height and reach, combined with his come forward-style. He will look to continue his recent run of dominance this Saturday when he takes on his most experienced opponent to date in former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman headlining a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Ahead of this pivotal March 28th showdown, Fundora’s opponents shared their firsthand experience stepping into the ring with the preposterously six-foot-five 154-pound world champion, including his most recent foe, former champion Tim Tszyu, who faced Fundora in a pair of memorable clashes.
“Fundora’s biggest advantage is the number of punches he throws in a round,” said Tszyu. “It’s the fact that he doesn’t let anyone rest. Because he’s so tall, he’s able to just punch and punch without using too much energy. That’s his biggest strength. He’s a bit of a nightmare, but he’s also easy to hit. But he’s also tough as hell, he gets hit and keeps coming. It’s hard to be strategic. When you fight Fundora, expect that you’re gonna be in one of the hardest fights.”
In between fights against Tszyu, Fundora defended his championships against Chordale Booker, who had a moment early in the first round of their fight that made him realize he was in for an even more challenging task than he expected. “It’s already hard to fight somebody as tall as Sebastian, but it’s that length that he has,” said Booker. “He came out and threw the jab and I remember the first thing I did was pull, and he still hit me. I trained for a guy who was tall and gave up his height, but when he came to fight me he had just had the first fight with Tszyu, and he clearly had worked on his range. That made it a difficult fight for me.”
Tszyu also emphasized the same point about Fundora’s length and the difficulties that creates, especially related to how much energy Fundora’s opponents have to exert compared to him. “I was just throwing haymakers without even looking and every time that happened I was swinging at air,” said Tszyu. “Because of his reach and his awkwardness and that he can take a step back and be completely out of the way, he’s got big strengths. The most challenging part was that there was no wasted energy from him. The amount of work that I had to do in a round, compared to him, my energy was much more wasted.”
Two opponents who gave Fundora some trouble in their fights also analyzed the challenges they faced in their respective matchups. Jamontay Clark fought Fundora to a draw in 2019, while top contender Erickson Lubin was able to drop Fundora before ultimately losing one of 2022’s best fights. “It was an intense fight,” said Clark. “Every time a new round would start, he would smile over at me and I was like ‘okay here we go again.’ I knew I had to be on top of my game. When we fought, Fundora was really all pressure. But watching his last couple fights, it looks like he’s started to sit back on his back foot more and try to pop the jab. I feel like he doesn’t bring his jab hand back all the way fast enough, but he’s so tall that he can usually get away with it.”
“Fighting Sebastian Fundora is a challenge for sure,” said Lubin. “He’s just something you don’t see at this weight class. He’s a great fighter who brings the fight. He makes every fighter have to engage with him. He takes up a lot of space in the ring and it was a different kind of challenge for me.”
The fighter with the best blueprint on facing Fundora is certainly Brian Mendoza, who stopped Fundora with a sensational knockout in one of 2023’s biggest upsets, before Fundora earned his first world championship. For Mendoza, one of the keys to beating Fundora is based in a skillset that he believes Fundora will be forced to overcome against the talented former champion Thurman. “Fighting Fundora is definitely something that you can’t truly prepare for,” said Mendoza. “You need tons of lateral movement, which I think Thurman has, and you need to be able to cross up his angles. I don’t think people really noticed my lateral movement in our fight. They saw him getting downhill and landing on me, but they didn’t notice how many shots I got out of the way of. I think Thurman is a big threat because he knows how to get you to cross your feet up and get you to come in with that leaping hook. You saw in my fight with Fundora that it can be his kryptonite.”
Moments after coming up short in their second fight, Tszyu said in his post-fight interview that he “felt like I was shadowboxing with myself sometimes,” in trying to turn the tide against Fundora. When asked how he feels about going up against an opponent who elicits that kind of reaction after a fight, Thurman detailed why he’ll be able to end March 28th with a different outcome. “It’s all about the reach factor that Tszyu was referencing,” said Thurman. “He felt like he was shadowboxing himself because he kept falling short and missing by inches. He was able to land some punches as well, but he’s more flat-footed and not as mobile as I am.
“I understand where he’s coming from. Fundora is like a walking obstacle course for anyone in the division. He’s a freak of nature and it’s gonna be challenging. He’s let people on the inside in the past and I’m not sure he can just pepper me with that jab all night like against Tszyu, because I’m not gonna be standing straight up. I have good head movement and bobbing and weaving tactics. We believe that we’ll be able to get inside, be explosive and make up for that gap and eventually get our hands on Fundora.”
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Welcome to Fundora vs. Thurman fight week
One of the most unique boxing champions in recent memory, WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (pictured) has vexed nearly all of his opponents with outlandish height and reach, combined with his come forward-style. He will look to continue his recent run of dominance this Saturday when he takes on his most experienced opponent to date in former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman headlining a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Ahead of this pivotal March 28th showdown, Fundora’s opponents shared their firsthand experience stepping into the ring with the preposterously six-foot-five 154-pound world champion, including his most recent foe, former champion Tim Tszyu, who faced Fundora in a pair of memorable clashes.
“Fundora’s biggest advantage is the number of punches he throws in a round,” said Tszyu. “It’s the fact that he doesn’t let anyone rest. Because he’s so tall, he’s able to just punch and punch without using too much energy. That’s his biggest strength. He’s a bit of a nightmare, but he’s also easy to hit. But he’s also tough as hell, he gets hit and keeps coming. It’s hard to be strategic. When you fight Fundora, expect that you’re gonna be in one of the hardest fights.”
In between fights against Tszyu, Fundora defended his championships against Chordale Booker, who had a moment early in the first round of their fight that made him realize he was in for an even more challenging task than he expected. “It’s already hard to fight somebody as tall as Sebastian, but it’s that length that he has,” said Booker. “He came out and threw the jab and I remember the first thing I did was pull, and he still hit me. I trained for a guy who was tall and gave up his height, but when he came to fight me he had just had the first fight with Tszyu, and he clearly had worked on his range. That made it a difficult fight for me.”
Tszyu also emphasized the same point about Fundora’s length and the difficulties that creates, especially related to how much energy Fundora’s opponents have to exert compared to him. “I was just throwing haymakers without even looking and every time that happened I was swinging at air,” said Tszyu. “Because of his reach and his awkwardness and that he can take a step back and be completely out of the way, he’s got big strengths. The most challenging part was that there was no wasted energy from him. The amount of work that I had to do in a round, compared to him, my energy was much more wasted.”
Two opponents who gave Fundora some trouble in their fights also analyzed the challenges they faced in their respective matchups. Jamontay Clark fought Fundora to a draw in 2019, while top contender Erickson Lubin was able to drop Fundora before ultimately losing one of 2022’s best fights. “It was an intense fight,” said Clark. “Every time a new round would start, he would smile over at me and I was like ‘okay here we go again.’ I knew I had to be on top of my game. When we fought, Fundora was really all pressure. But watching his last couple fights, it looks like he’s started to sit back on his back foot more and try to pop the jab. I feel like he doesn’t bring his jab hand back all the way fast enough, but he’s so tall that he can usually get away with it.”
“Fighting Sebastian Fundora is a challenge for sure,” said Lubin. “He’s just something you don’t see at this weight class. He’s a great fighter who brings the fight. He makes every fighter have to engage with him. He takes up a lot of space in the ring and it was a different kind of challenge for me.”
The fighter with the best blueprint on facing Fundora is certainly Brian Mendoza, who stopped Fundora with a sensational knockout in one of 2023’s biggest upsets, before Fundora earned his first world championship. For Mendoza, one of the keys to beating Fundora is based in a skillset that he believes Fundora will be forced to overcome against the talented former champion Thurman. “Fighting Fundora is definitely something that you can’t truly prepare for,” said Mendoza. “You need tons of lateral movement, which I think Thurman has, and you need to be able to cross up his angles. I don’t think people really noticed my lateral movement in our fight. They saw him getting downhill and landing on me, but they didn’t notice how many shots I got out of the way of. I think Thurman is a big threat because he knows how to get you to cross your feet up and get you to come in with that leaping hook. You saw in my fight with Fundora that it can be his kryptonite.”
Moments after coming up short in their second fight, Tszyu said in his post-fight interview that he “felt like I was shadowboxing with myself sometimes,” in trying to turn the tide against Fundora. When asked how he feels about going up against an opponent who elicits that kind of reaction after a fight, Thurman detailed why he’ll be able to end March 28th with a different outcome. “It’s all about the reach factor that Tszyu was referencing,” said Thurman. “He felt like he was shadowboxing himself because he kept falling short and missing by inches. He was able to land some punches as well, but he’s more flat-footed and not as mobile as I am.
“I understand where he’s coming from. Fundora is like a walking obstacle course for anyone in the division. He’s a freak of nature and it’s gonna be challenging. He’s let people on the inside in the past and I’m not sure he can just pepper me with that jab all night like against Tszyu, because I’m not gonna be standing straight up. I have good head movement and bobbing and weaving tactics. We believe that we’ll be able to get inside, be explosive and make up for that gap and eventually get our hands on Fundora.”
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Adames states his claim for #1 middleweight in the world |
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WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames staked his claim as the king of the 160-pound division in dominating fashion this past Saturday, dropping Ammo Williams on his way to earning a unanimous decision victory. “I said it before the fight…destroy and demolish, and that’s exactly what I did. I didn’t just win, I sent a message to the entire middleweight division. When I sent him down in the second round, I knew the fight was mine. From that moment on, it was about discipline, breaking him down round by round and showing the world my level.
“Respect to Ammo, he’s a warrior and he came to fight. But there are levels in this sport. I showed the difference between a contender and a champion.”
Representing his native Dominican Republic, Adames made his third successful world title defense with the triumph on Saturday night. Back in the ring for the first time since February 2025, Adames proved to be as motivated as ever to show what he can do at 160 pounds and beyond. “Thirteen months away didn’t slow me down, it made me sharper and more dangerous,” said Adames. “I came back with something to prove, and I proved it in dominant fashion. I truly believe I’m the best middleweight in the world right now. Anyone with a belt, anyone with a name, I’m ready. If you’re at 160 and you think you’re the best, even anyone at 168 pounds, come see me. I’m taking over.”
Boxingtalk is inclined to agree with Adames' assesment. As for the other middleweight champions, Zhanibek Alimkhanuly recently tested positive for a banned performance-enhancing substance, which cost him the IBF title. The WBO continues to recognize the disgraced Alimkhanuly as champ, while the IBF is still vacant. The WBA title is held by 40-something Erislandy Lara, who rarely fights.
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Adames states his claim for #1 middleweight in the world
WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames staked his claim as the king of the 160-pound division in dominating fashion this past Saturday, dropping Ammo Williams on his way to earning a unanimous decision victory. “I said it before the fight…destroy and demolish, and that’s exactly what I did. I didn’t just win, I sent a message to the entire middleweight division. When I sent him down in the second round, I knew the fight was mine. From that moment on, it was about discipline, breaking him down round by round and showing the world my level.
“Respect to Ammo, he’s a warrior and he came to fight. But there are levels in this sport. I showed the difference between a contender and a champion.”
Representing his native Dominican Republic, Adames made his third successful world title defense with the triumph on Saturday night. Back in the ring for the first time since February 2025, Adames proved to be as motivated as ever to show what he can do at 160 pounds and beyond. “Thirteen months away didn’t slow me down, it made me sharper and more dangerous,” said Adames. “I came back with something to prove, and I proved it in dominant fashion. I truly believe I’m the best middleweight in the world right now. Anyone with a belt, anyone with a name, I’m ready. If you’re at 160 and you think you’re the best, even anyone at 168 pounds, come see me. I’m taking over.”
Boxingtalk is inclined to agree with Adames' assesment. As for the other middleweight champions, Zhanibek Alimkhanuly recently tested positive for a banned performance-enhancing substance, which cost him the IBF title. The WBO continues to recognize the disgraced Alimkhanuly as champ, while the IBF is still vacant. The WBA title is held by 40-something Erislandy Lara, who rarely fights.
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Rodriguez defeats ex-champ Rosales |
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Gohan Rodríguez W10 Cristofer Rosales ... Mexican super flyweight Gohan Rodríguez defeated Nicaragua's Cristofer “El Látigo” Rosales by unanimous decision this Saturday in Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico. It was a career-changing win for Rodriguez because Rosales is a former WBC flyweight champion. Rodriguez utilized his speed to dominate his experienced rival from start to finish, landing several heavy punches. The judges did not hesitate to declare him the winner with cards of 100-90 and 99-91 (twice). With this victory, the 25 year-old Rodríguez raises his record to 20-4-1 (with only three knockouts). Meanwhile, the 31 year-old Rosales was left with a record of 38-8.
Estefany Alegría W10 Danna Paola Alanís... On the same show, Estefany “Fanny” Alegría surged back to defeat Danna Paola “La Girita” Alanís in a light flyweight bout held. Alegría (14-10 had an uncertain start and gave up ground in the early rounds, allowing Alanis (6-2-4) to take control of the action. However, she managed to right the course and deliver a high-level battle that ultimately halted Alanís’ aspirations of having her arm raised. Ultimately, Alegría’s wide offensive repertoire carried the day via scorecards of 98-92 (twice) and 97-93.
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Rodriguez defeats ex-champ Rosales
Gohan Rodríguez W10 Cristofer Rosales ... Mexican super flyweight Gohan Rodríguez defeated Nicaragua's Cristofer “El Látigo” Rosales by unanimous decision this Saturday in Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico. It was a career-changing win for Rodriguez because Rosales is a former WBC flyweight champion. Rodriguez utilized his speed to dominate his experienced rival from start to finish, landing several heavy punches. The judges did not hesitate to declare him the winner with cards of 100-90 and 99-91 (twice). With this victory, the 25 year-old Rodríguez raises his record to 20-4-1 (with only three knockouts). Meanwhile, the 31 year-old Rosales was left with a record of 38-8.
Estefany Alegría W10 Danna Paola Alanís... On the same show, Estefany “Fanny” Alegría surged back to defeat Danna Paola “La Girita” Alanís in a light flyweight bout held. Alegría (14-10 had an uncertain start and gave up ground in the early rounds, allowing Alanis (6-2-4) to take control of the action. However, she managed to right the course and deliver a high-level battle that ultimately halted Alanís’ aspirations of having her arm raised. Ultimately, Alegría’s wide offensive repertoire carried the day via scorecards of 98-92 (twice) and 97-93.
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More results from Orlando |
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Roberto Gomez W6 Belmar Preciado... On Saturday at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, junior lightweight Roberto Gomez (9-0, 3 KOs) secured a dominant unanimous decision victory over Belmar Preciado (23-12-1, 16 KOs) in a six-round bout, showcasing his boxing skills and composure. “This fight was really about staying disciplined and following what we worked on in camp,” said Gomez. “Preciado is a tough, experienced fighter, so I just tried to stay patient and do things the right way. I’m grateful for the win, but I know I still have a lot to learn and improve on. Every fight is a chance for me to grow. I’m just taking it one step at a time, gaining experience, and trying to get better each time I step in the ring. I’ll stay ready and keep working for whatever comes next.”
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Puerto Rican featherweight Carlos De Leon (8-0, 6 KOs) earned a unanimous decision win over Damian Alcala (8-7, 2 KOs) in a six-round contest. De Leon spoke about staying focused and continuing to build momentum in his young career. “I wanted to go in there and show that I can control a fight from start to finish,” said De Leon. “Not every fight is going to end in a knockout, but it’s important to show I can box, stay patient, and win clearly. I’m still learning and getting better every time out. Staying undefeated is important, but I’m focused on improving and making sure I’m ready when the bigger opportunities come.”
Jordan Orozco (16-0, 16 KOs) delivered a second-round knockout over Daniel Olea (13-15-3, 5 KOs) in their scheduled six-round bout. Orozco spoke about maintaining his perfect knockout record and making a statement. “I was focused on sticking to the game plan and staying composed,” said Orozco. “Once I saw the opening, I followed through with what my team and I have been working on. The knockouts are a blessing, but they come from the work we put in every day. I’m thankful for where I’m at, and I’m going to stay humble and keep building.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, praised all three fighters for their performances and highlighted their continued development. “I’m extremely proud of Roberto Gomez, Carlos De Leon, and Jordan Orozco,” said Piedra. “Each of them showed something different—skill, discipline, power—and that’s exactly what we want to see from our fighters. Gomez showed maturity against a tough opponent, De Leon demonstrated his ability to control a fight, and Orozco once again proved how dangerous he is. These are all signs of fighters who are progressing the right way.”
Looking ahead, Piedra expressed confidence in their futures. “All three have very bright futures. They’re staying active, improving every fight, and gaining valuable experience. If they continue on this path, there’s no doubt they’ll be in position for bigger opportunities in the near future.”
With three undefeated fighters adding to their records in impressive fashion, Boxlab Promotions continues to solidify its reputation as a growing force in developing the next generation of boxing talent.
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More results from Orlando
Roberto Gomez W6 Belmar Preciado... On Saturday at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, junior lightweight Roberto Gomez (9-0, 3 KOs) secured a dominant unanimous decision victory over Belmar Preciado (23-12-1, 16 KOs) in a six-round bout, showcasing his boxing skills and composure. “This fight was really about staying disciplined and following what we worked on in camp,” said Gomez. “Preciado is a tough, experienced fighter, so I just tried to stay patient and do things the right way. I’m grateful for the win, but I know I still have a lot to learn and improve on. Every fight is a chance for me to grow. I’m just taking it one step at a time, gaining experience, and trying to get better each time I step in the ring. I’ll stay ready and keep working for whatever comes next.”
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Puerto Rican featherweight Carlos De Leon (8-0, 6 KOs) earned a unanimous decision win over Damian Alcala (8-7, 2 KOs) in a six-round contest. De Leon spoke about staying focused and continuing to build momentum in his young career. “I wanted to go in there and show that I can control a fight from start to finish,” said De Leon. “Not every fight is going to end in a knockout, but it’s important to show I can box, stay patient, and win clearly. I’m still learning and getting better every time out. Staying undefeated is important, but I’m focused on improving and making sure I’m ready when the bigger opportunities come.”
Jordan Orozco (16-0, 16 KOs) delivered a second-round knockout over Daniel Olea (13-15-3, 5 KOs) in their scheduled six-round bout. Orozco spoke about maintaining his perfect knockout record and making a statement. “I was focused on sticking to the game plan and staying composed,” said Orozco. “Once I saw the opening, I followed through with what my team and I have been working on. The knockouts are a blessing, but they come from the work we put in every day. I’m thankful for where I’m at, and I’m going to stay humble and keep building.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, praised all three fighters for their performances and highlighted their continued development. “I’m extremely proud of Roberto Gomez, Carlos De Leon, and Jordan Orozco,” said Piedra. “Each of them showed something different—skill, discipline, power—and that’s exactly what we want to see from our fighters. Gomez showed maturity against a tough opponent, De Leon demonstrated his ability to control a fight, and Orozco once again proved how dangerous he is. These are all signs of fighters who are progressing the right way.”
Looking ahead, Piedra expressed confidence in their futures. “All three have very bright futures. They’re staying active, improving every fight, and gaining valuable experience. If they continue on this path, there’s no doubt they’ll be in position for bigger opportunities in the near future.”
With three undefeated fighters adding to their records in impressive fashion, Boxlab Promotions continues to solidify its reputation as a growing force in developing the next generation of boxing talent.
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Dirty Boxing plans interim heavyweight title fight |
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Heavyweights Michael Garcia and Rob “The Wolf” Perez each promise to bring their best to Dirty Boxing Championship (DBX) when they square off for the interim heavyweight title in the main event of DBX6 on Friday, April 10th at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, Florida. The full fight card will stream live and for free on the Dirty Boxing Championship YouTube Channel. While Garcia plans to show the “technical” side of heavyweight fighting, “The Wolf” promised destruction on fight night. “I’m being underestimated, but I’m gonna gain everyone’s favor and show the more technical side of heavyweight fighting,” said Garcia. “You’re gonna see something different from me. . Perez is a character, he talks a lot and keeps people engaged, but I’m gonna become heavyweight champion.”
“I just like to get down and dirty,” said Perez. “There’s a stigma of class and showmanship behind boxing, and with Dirty Boxing, it lets ‘The Wolf’ do what I do best. That’s entertain and be a crazy wrecking ball.”
With two first-round stoppages in DBX action already under his belt, Perez believes that his experience in Dirty Boxing and beyond will make the difference. “I’ve had a lot of opponent in the past underestimate me, and they’ve paid for it,” said Perez. “He doesn’t realize the danger he’s in there with. I have more amateur fights than he has amateur and pro fights put together. With my background in boxing, I’m gonna show him that there’s levels to this. He’s gonna learn the hard way that boxing is the better sport, especially when it comes to striking.”
With two DBX victories of his own, Garcia has made it clear that he’s prepared for the “wrecking ball” tactics from Perez and is dead set on showing the skill gap between the two fighters. “He’s just a pressure fighter,” said Garcia. “I don’t see too much skill really. It’s a lot of overhands and pressure. He’s a one-dimensional fighter. His ego is beyond what his skill can carry. I’m not saying it’s an easy fight. He’s durable and heavy-handed. But I don’t feel like I’m in danger. It’s a fight about skill at the end of the day and I know I possess more of that than he does.”
Going up against a fighter with an MMA and Muay-Thai background, Perez explained that his skillset is perfectly in-tune to counteract the elbows that Garcia will throw at him when they step into the ring. “He's gonna try come in there and throw the jab and throw the elbow behind it,” said Perez. “As long as I don’t get cut from the elbow, he can throw it all day. My head is a cement wall. I’ve broken probably four people’s hands in sparring in the last two months. He’s not ready for what I’m bringing. He’s gonna feel my power and my speed. I train like a monster. I’m not an elbow thrower, but if I see the opportunity, I’ll take advantage of it. I’m coming to do what I do best.”
For Garcia, the fight against Perez is one he’s sought out even before making his own DBX debut. While he’s been prepared for Perez’s “smack talk” outside of the ring, Garcia has focused on improving his own game inside of the ring and feels that DBX is especially suited to his skillset as he focuses on the fighting discipline. “I knew that he was gonna talk a lot of smack, that was my first thought when the fight came together,” said Garcia. I’ve been calling him out since before I got involved with Dirty Boxing. He’s been on my radar for a long time.
“I’m continuing to adjust to the rule set and getting better and better in this sport. Dirty Boxing is really fast paced and so I’ve had to just focus on boxing in training. I was intrigued the second I watched Dirty Boxing. I told everyone in the gym that I was gonna be fighting in that one day, I just knew it. I love the fast pace. I feel like this was created for me. It was new territory for me at first, but I feel a lot more comfortable in there now.”
With an opportunity to claim the Interim Heavyweight Title on April 10, both fighters made clear that they’re not looking past their opponent, and that no matter who’s next, they’re looking to be the best version of themselves every time they step into the ring.
“I want to fight the best,” said Perez. “I know Yoel Romero is kinda scared of me, so I’ll take whoever is the best who will fight me. I want people to look back at my resume and see that I was taking down all the greats. Win, lose or draw, ‘The Wolf’ will always put on a show and give the fans what they want. That’s what we’re doing here at Dirty Boxing.”
“I don’t look past my opponents ever,” said Garcia. “Whoever is next, it’s just about challenging myself. I’m more looking at how I can level up from my last performance, no matter who’s in front of me.”
The entire lineup will be announced shortly, but will also feature the return of standout Montavious Ware taking on veteran Luis Saldana in a battle of fighters sporting 1-0 DBX records.
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Dirty Boxing plans interim heavyweight title fight
Heavyweights Michael Garcia and Rob “The Wolf” Perez each promise to bring their best to Dirty Boxing Championship (DBX) when they square off for the interim heavyweight title in the main event of DBX6 on Friday, April 10th at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, Florida. The full fight card will stream live and for free on the Dirty Boxing Championship YouTube Channel. While Garcia plans to show the “technical” side of heavyweight fighting, “The Wolf” promised destruction on fight night. “I’m being underestimated, but I’m gonna gain everyone’s favor and show the more technical side of heavyweight fighting,” said Garcia. “You’re gonna see something different from me. . Perez is a character, he talks a lot and keeps people engaged, but I’m gonna become heavyweight champion.”
“I just like to get down and dirty,” said Perez. “There’s a stigma of class and showmanship behind boxing, and with Dirty Boxing, it lets ‘The Wolf’ do what I do best. That’s entertain and be a crazy wrecking ball.”
With two first-round stoppages in DBX action already under his belt, Perez believes that his experience in Dirty Boxing and beyond will make the difference. “I’ve had a lot of opponent in the past underestimate me, and they’ve paid for it,” said Perez. “He doesn’t realize the danger he’s in there with. I have more amateur fights than he has amateur and pro fights put together. With my background in boxing, I’m gonna show him that there’s levels to this. He’s gonna learn the hard way that boxing is the better sport, especially when it comes to striking.”
With two DBX victories of his own, Garcia has made it clear that he’s prepared for the “wrecking ball” tactics from Perez and is dead set on showing the skill gap between the two fighters. “He’s just a pressure fighter,” said Garcia. “I don’t see too much skill really. It’s a lot of overhands and pressure. He’s a one-dimensional fighter. His ego is beyond what his skill can carry. I’m not saying it’s an easy fight. He’s durable and heavy-handed. But I don’t feel like I’m in danger. It’s a fight about skill at the end of the day and I know I possess more of that than he does.”
Going up against a fighter with an MMA and Muay-Thai background, Perez explained that his skillset is perfectly in-tune to counteract the elbows that Garcia will throw at him when they step into the ring. “He's gonna try come in there and throw the jab and throw the elbow behind it,” said Perez. “As long as I don’t get cut from the elbow, he can throw it all day. My head is a cement wall. I’ve broken probably four people’s hands in sparring in the last two months. He’s not ready for what I’m bringing. He’s gonna feel my power and my speed. I train like a monster. I’m not an elbow thrower, but if I see the opportunity, I’ll take advantage of it. I’m coming to do what I do best.”
For Garcia, the fight against Perez is one he’s sought out even before making his own DBX debut. While he’s been prepared for Perez’s “smack talk” outside of the ring, Garcia has focused on improving his own game inside of the ring and feels that DBX is especially suited to his skillset as he focuses on the fighting discipline. “I knew that he was gonna talk a lot of smack, that was my first thought when the fight came together,” said Garcia. I’ve been calling him out since before I got involved with Dirty Boxing. He’s been on my radar for a long time.
“I’m continuing to adjust to the rule set and getting better and better in this sport. Dirty Boxing is really fast paced and so I’ve had to just focus on boxing in training. I was intrigued the second I watched Dirty Boxing. I told everyone in the gym that I was gonna be fighting in that one day, I just knew it. I love the fast pace. I feel like this was created for me. It was new territory for me at first, but I feel a lot more comfortable in there now.”
With an opportunity to claim the Interim Heavyweight Title on April 10, both fighters made clear that they’re not looking past their opponent, and that no matter who’s next, they’re looking to be the best version of themselves every time they step into the ring.
“I want to fight the best,” said Perez. “I know Yoel Romero is kinda scared of me, so I’ll take whoever is the best who will fight me. I want people to look back at my resume and see that I was taking down all the greats. Win, lose or draw, ‘The Wolf’ will always put on a show and give the fans what they want. That’s what we’re doing here at Dirty Boxing.”
“I don’t look past my opponents ever,” said Garcia. “Whoever is next, it’s just about challenging myself. I’m more looking at how I can level up from my last performance, no matter who’s in front of me.”
The entire lineup will be announced shortly, but will also feature the return of standout Montavious Ware taking on veteran Luis Saldana in a battle of fighters sporting 1-0 DBX records.
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BKFC results |
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“King” Kai Stewart defended his Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) featherweight title for a record-tying sixth time at BKFC 87 on Friday at the sold-out Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, FL. The Great Falls, MT product defended his crown with a hard-fought, unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Nico “The Iron” Gaffie. [In BKFC, the featherweight imit is 145 pounds]. Two judges scored the fight 49-46 and one had it 48-47. “I am the king of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship,” Stewart proclaimed in his post-fight interview. “I’m the best bare knuckle fighter in the world. I’m going to continue to get better, I’m going to continue to grow, and I’m going to continue repping the most exciting sport in the world as the (expletive) King!” Stewart is now 9-0 in the Squared Circle. Gaffie, the inaugural BKFC European featherweight champion from Marbella, Spain, is now 3-1 under the BKFC banner.
Only Stewart, Christine “Misfit” Ferea and Luis “Baboon” Palomino have defended a BKFC World Championship six times.
Cuban heavyweight Leonardo “El Zambo” Perdomo cruised to 11-0 with his tenth first-round finish at the expense of UFC vet Rashad “Daywalker” Coulter. The Miami fighter only needed 67 seconds to roll through Coulter, who entered fight night with a bare knuckle fighting record of 2-1.
Perdomo, the #1 contender in the BKFC heavyweight division, took aim at champion Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski before the two undefeated heavyweights faced off in the middle of the squared circle. “Arlovski, where are you? Come at me, boy! Don’t be scared. Come on, papi. (The belt) is mine. It’s mine, and everybody knows it!”
Cuban-born Miami fighter Bryan “El Gallo” Duran needed just 19 seconds to steamroll Derek “Rage” Perez. Duran, a featherweight, is now 8-1-1 in BKFC. Perez, who hails from Belem, NM, is now 4-5. Duran reinforced his BKFC featherweight title aspirations in his post-fight interview: “I apologize for letting you guys down (in my first BKFC title fight against Stewart). But I promise you that when I fight for the belt again, I’m bringing it home to Miami!”
Here are some highlights from BKFC Founder/President David Feldman’s post-event press conference:
Fight of the Night: Kai Stewart vs. Nico Gaffie
Knockout of the Night: Bryan Duran
Performance of the Night: Jancarlos Rivera
On BKFC 87: “We asked the guys to come fight, and they came to fight tonight. This was the liveliest crowd we’ve had in a long time. The energy out there was amazing. It was a great night; I’m very, very happy with the event.”
On Kai Stewart's next fight: "We have to think about what's next. What do the fans want? I'm always with what the fans want. It's not always about the rankings. If the fans don't want it and don't enjoy it ... I've got to give the fans what they want."
On Leonardo Perdomo's performance: “He came in in great shape and got the first-round knockout. I think this was the most devastating he’s looked. His punches were shorter and he came out and scored a really, really great knockout against a tough veteran.”
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Anderson, IN strawweight Shelby “Boom Boom” Cannon earned the biggest win of her career as she defeated the previously unbeaten Rosalinda “Venom” Rodriguez via split decision. Two judges scored the bout in favor of Cannon (48-46, 49-45) and one judge had it 49-46 for Rodriguez. Cannon is now 2-1, while the Fort Lauderdale, FL product Rodriguez falls to 3-1 with the loss.
Miami’s Leo “Lionheart” Carrera won his light-heavyweight fight with UFC vet Sabah “Sleek Sheik” Homasi after Homasi was disqualified in the second round for landing an illegal spinning back fist. Time of the stoppage was 1:06 in the second stanza. Carrera improved to 3-2 with the victory, while the Coconut Creek, FL fighter Homasi is now 1-2.
South African cruiserweight Jeremy “Pitbull” Smith dug deep to earn a split-decision victory at the expense of former Donald Sanchez in a rematch. Smith improved to 4-3 with the victory, and 2-0 against Sanchez. The Albuquerque, NM fighter Sanchez dropped to 4-3 with the loss and announced his retirement shortly after his fight.
Charleston, SC’s Roberto “El Gallo Negro” Armas rose to the ocassion in his 10th BKFC bout, halting the rise of the previously undefeated AJ “The Biggest” Rodriguez in bantamweight action. Rodriguez’s corner called a stop to the bout at the conclusion of the third round. Armas is now 5-5 following his TKO victory. The Venezuelan-born Miami product Rodriguez is now 3-1.
Fort Myers, FL bantamweight Jancarlos “Baby Hulk” Rivera smashed his way to 3-0 with a first-round TKO over Samuel “Ace O’ Spades” Samples in their bantamweight showdown. Rivera picked himself up off the canvas and rallied for the stoppage with just one second left in the opening round. That’s now back-to-back, first-round finishes for Rivera, while the Madison County, GA fighter Samples is now 3-5.
Clewiston, FL product Chris “Dynamite” Garcia cruised to 6-1 with a second-round TKO over Chancey “Supaflyy” Wilson — his second straight stoppage victory. Garcia logged a pair of knockdowns before the contest was stopped 19 seconds into the second stanza. Wilson, who represents Wichita, KS, is now 3-6 under the BKFC banner.
With BKFC women’s strawweight champion Britain Hart in his corner, Broward County, FL’s Chino Blume edged out Alex “The Rhino” Davis for a hard-fought, split-decision victory in heavyweight action. Two judges scored the fight 30-27 for Blume, and one judge scored the contest 30-27 for Davis. Blume is now 2-2 on the strength of back-to-back wins. Davis, who hails from Coal Mountain, WV, is now 1-3 in the Squared Circle.
Cuban-born Miami product Ernesto “Las Manos Benditas” Suarez cruised to 2-0 under the BKFC banner after sending “Slick” Vic Flor to the canvas three times in the opening round of their bantamweight matchup. The fight was stopped with four seconds left in the first round. Both of Suarez’s wins have come by first-round finish. The Broward County, FL fighter Flor was making his BKFC debut.
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BKFC results
“King” Kai Stewart defended his Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) featherweight title for a record-tying sixth time at BKFC 87 on Friday at the sold-out Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, FL. The Great Falls, MT product defended his crown with a hard-fought, unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Nico “The Iron” Gaffie. [In BKFC, the featherweight imit is 145 pounds]. Two judges scored the fight 49-46 and one had it 48-47. “I am the king of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship,” Stewart proclaimed in his post-fight interview. “I’m the best bare knuckle fighter in the world. I’m going to continue to get better, I’m going to continue to grow, and I’m going to continue repping the most exciting sport in the world as the (expletive) King!” Stewart is now 9-0 in the Squared Circle. Gaffie, the inaugural BKFC European featherweight champion from Marbella, Spain, is now 3-1 under the BKFC banner.
Only Stewart, Christine “Misfit” Ferea and Luis “Baboon” Palomino have defended a BKFC World Championship six times.
Cuban heavyweight Leonardo “El Zambo” Perdomo cruised to 11-0 with his tenth first-round finish at the expense of UFC vet Rashad “Daywalker” Coulter. The Miami fighter only needed 67 seconds to roll through Coulter, who entered fight night with a bare knuckle fighting record of 2-1.
Perdomo, the #1 contender in the BKFC heavyweight division, took aim at champion Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski before the two undefeated heavyweights faced off in the middle of the squared circle. “Arlovski, where are you? Come at me, boy! Don’t be scared. Come on, papi. (The belt) is mine. It’s mine, and everybody knows it!”
Cuban-born Miami fighter Bryan “El Gallo” Duran needed just 19 seconds to steamroll Derek “Rage” Perez. Duran, a featherweight, is now 8-1-1 in BKFC. Perez, who hails from Belem, NM, is now 4-5. Duran reinforced his BKFC featherweight title aspirations in his post-fight interview: “I apologize for letting you guys down (in my first BKFC title fight against Stewart). But I promise you that when I fight for the belt again, I’m bringing it home to Miami!”
Here are some highlights from BKFC Founder/President David Feldman’s post-event press conference:
Fight of the Night: Kai Stewart vs. Nico Gaffie
Knockout of the Night: Bryan Duran
Performance of the Night: Jancarlos Rivera
On BKFC 87: “We asked the guys to come fight, and they came to fight tonight. This was the liveliest crowd we’ve had in a long time. The energy out there was amazing. It was a great night; I’m very, very happy with the event.”
On Kai Stewart's next fight: "We have to think about what's next. What do the fans want? I'm always with what the fans want. It's not always about the rankings. If the fans don't want it and don't enjoy it ... I've got to give the fans what they want."
On Leonardo Perdomo's performance: “He came in in great shape and got the first-round knockout. I think this was the most devastating he’s looked. His punches were shorter and he came out and scored a really, really great knockout against a tough veteran.”
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Anderson, IN strawweight Shelby “Boom Boom” Cannon earned the biggest win of her career as she defeated the previously unbeaten Rosalinda “Venom” Rodriguez via split decision. Two judges scored the bout in favor of Cannon (48-46, 49-45) and one judge had it 49-46 for Rodriguez. Cannon is now 2-1, while the Fort Lauderdale, FL product Rodriguez falls to 3-1 with the loss.
Miami’s Leo “Lionheart” Carrera won his light-heavyweight fight with UFC vet Sabah “Sleek Sheik” Homasi after Homasi was disqualified in the second round for landing an illegal spinning back fist. Time of the stoppage was 1:06 in the second stanza. Carrera improved to 3-2 with the victory, while the Coconut Creek, FL fighter Homasi is now 1-2.
South African cruiserweight Jeremy “Pitbull” Smith dug deep to earn a split-decision victory at the expense of former Donald Sanchez in a rematch. Smith improved to 4-3 with the victory, and 2-0 against Sanchez. The Albuquerque, NM fighter Sanchez dropped to 4-3 with the loss and announced his retirement shortly after his fight.
Charleston, SC’s Roberto “El Gallo Negro” Armas rose to the ocassion in his 10th BKFC bout, halting the rise of the previously undefeated AJ “The Biggest” Rodriguez in bantamweight action. Rodriguez’s corner called a stop to the bout at the conclusion of the third round. Armas is now 5-5 following his TKO victory. The Venezuelan-born Miami product Rodriguez is now 3-1.
Fort Myers, FL bantamweight Jancarlos “Baby Hulk” Rivera smashed his way to 3-0 with a first-round TKO over Samuel “Ace O’ Spades” Samples in their bantamweight showdown. Rivera picked himself up off the canvas and rallied for the stoppage with just one second left in the opening round. That’s now back-to-back, first-round finishes for Rivera, while the Madison County, GA fighter Samples is now 3-5.
Clewiston, FL product Chris “Dynamite” Garcia cruised to 6-1 with a second-round TKO over Chancey “Supaflyy” Wilson — his second straight stoppage victory. Garcia logged a pair of knockdowns before the contest was stopped 19 seconds into the second stanza. Wilson, who represents Wichita, KS, is now 3-6 under the BKFC banner.
With BKFC women’s strawweight champion Britain Hart in his corner, Broward County, FL’s Chino Blume edged out Alex “The Rhino” Davis for a hard-fought, split-decision victory in heavyweight action. Two judges scored the fight 30-27 for Blume, and one judge scored the contest 30-27 for Davis. Blume is now 2-2 on the strength of back-to-back wins. Davis, who hails from Coal Mountain, WV, is now 1-3 in the Squared Circle.
Cuban-born Miami product Ernesto “Las Manos Benditas” Suarez cruised to 2-0 under the BKFC banner after sending “Slick” Vic Flor to the canvas three times in the opening round of their bantamweight matchup. The fight was stopped with four seconds left in the first round. Both of Suarez’s wins have come by first-round finish. The Broward County, FL fighter Flor was making his BKFC debut.
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In memory of Shichiro Kimura and Hideo Kanazawa |
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The WBC and its president Mauricio Sulaimán, deeply regret the passing of two pillars of Japanese boxing: promoter and manager Shichiro Kimura, and former regional champion and gym director Hideo Kanazawa. World boxing loses two figures who dedicated their lives to the development of champions and the safety of fighters.
Shichiro Kimura (1936-2026): Passing away on March 7th at the age of 90, Kimura was a distinguished stylist in the flyweight division before becoming a legendary mentor. Following his retirement, he established his own gym where he forged the career of two-time 112-pound world champion Shoji Oguma, along with numerous regional and national titleholders. Beyond his achievements in the ring, Kimura left an indelible legacy in sports health. As Chairman of the Japan Professional Boxing Association (JPBA), he was responsible for introducing mandatory CT scans for all licensed boxers in Japan in 1985—a pioneering measure that has saved lives.
Hideo Kanazawa (1947-2026): Boxing also bids farewell to Hideo Kanazawa, who passed away on March 14th at the age of 78 after a battle with rectal cancer. Kanazawa was a prominent warrior in the upper divisions, holding the Orient 154-pound title, which he successfully defended on eight occasions. As the director of Kanazawa Gym, his vision and discipline led figures such as Masamori Tokuyama, the iconic WBC 115-pound champion and Nobuhiro Ishida to world glory.
Boxingtalk joins the WBC and the boxing community of Japan in this time of sorrow and sends its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and students of these two great men who honored our sport. May they rest in peace.
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In memory of Shichiro Kimura and Hideo Kanazawa
The WBC and its president Mauricio Sulaimán, deeply regret the passing of two pillars of Japanese boxing: promoter and manager Shichiro Kimura, and former regional champion and gym director Hideo Kanazawa. World boxing loses two figures who dedicated their lives to the development of champions and the safety of fighters.
Shichiro Kimura (1936-2026): Passing away on March 7th at the age of 90, Kimura was a distinguished stylist in the flyweight division before becoming a legendary mentor. Following his retirement, he established his own gym where he forged the career of two-time 112-pound world champion Shoji Oguma, along with numerous regional and national titleholders. Beyond his achievements in the ring, Kimura left an indelible legacy in sports health. As Chairman of the Japan Professional Boxing Association (JPBA), he was responsible for introducing mandatory CT scans for all licensed boxers in Japan in 1985—a pioneering measure that has saved lives.
Hideo Kanazawa (1947-2026): Boxing also bids farewell to Hideo Kanazawa, who passed away on March 14th at the age of 78 after a battle with rectal cancer. Kanazawa was a prominent warrior in the upper divisions, holding the Orient 154-pound title, which he successfully defended on eight occasions. As the director of Kanazawa Gym, his vision and discipline led figures such as Masamori Tokuyama, the iconic WBC 115-pound champion and Nobuhiro Ishida to world glory.
Boxingtalk joins the WBC and the boxing community of Japan in this time of sorrow and sends its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and students of these two great men who honored our sport. May they rest in peace.
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Teenage boxer in medically induced coma |
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ProBox CEO Garry Jonas and the entire ProBox family are praying for a speedy recovery for Isis Sio. Following a first-round knockout loss to Jocelyn Camarillo on Saturday, Sio was placed in a medically induced coma. Just nineteen years old, Sio entered the junior flyweight bout with a 1-2 record. Boxingtalk joins ProBox in this statement: "Our thoughts are with her and her family at this very difficult time. Please join us in wishing for a full recovery."
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Teenage boxer in medically induced coma
ProBox CEO Garry Jonas and the entire ProBox family are praying for a speedy recovery for Isis Sio. Following a first-round knockout loss to Jocelyn Camarillo on Saturday, Sio was placed in a medically induced coma. Just nineteen years old, Sio entered the junior flyweight bout with a 1-2 record. Boxingtalk joins ProBox in this statement: "Our thoughts are with her and her family at this very difficult time. Please join us in wishing for a full recovery."
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Guatemala's Lester Martinez wins interim title |
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Guatemalan slugger Lester Martinez won a twelve-round unanimous decision over Immanuwel Aleem to win the vacant WBC interim super middleweight title. Fighting in the main event of ProBoxTV’s broadcast from the NOS Event Center in San Bernardino, California, Martinez (20-0-1, 16 KOs) of Guatemala City, Guatemala, used effective and powerful uppercuts and a superior work rate to keep the upper hand over Aleem (22-4-3, 14 KOs) throughout while absorbing return fire with his typical toughness. To his credit, Aleem came on strong in the later rounds, especially the eleventh and never gave up trying to win. However, the scores were 120-108, 118-110 and 119-109, all for new Martinez.
“I feel good,” said a happy Martinez, post-fight. “I want to thank my parents and family. I want to thank my team: Bomac, Saul, all my team and my promoter Garry Jonas. I want to thank all of you, Guatemala. We now have a world champion! I love Guatemala and all of my fans. I love y’all. Viva Guatemala!
“All respect to Aleem,” the new interim champion continued. “He’s a warrior and we knew how good he was and his experience, but we were ready for that and more. We went in cautious because we knew what we had in front of us. But to hear the Guatemalan fans cheering gave us the will to go on.”
“He had more consistency in the little things and I didn’t capitalize, so shout out to Lester Martinez,” said a disappointed but sportsmanlike Aleem. “It wasn’t the performance I was looking for, but I’m going back to the drawing board to continue my hunt for a world title.”
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Guatemala's Lester Martinez wins interim title
Guatemalan slugger Lester Martinez won a twelve-round unanimous decision over Immanuwel Aleem to win the vacant WBC interim super middleweight title. Fighting in the main event of ProBoxTV’s broadcast from the NOS Event Center in San Bernardino, California, Martinez (20-0-1, 16 KOs) of Guatemala City, Guatemala, used effective and powerful uppercuts and a superior work rate to keep the upper hand over Aleem (22-4-3, 14 KOs) throughout while absorbing return fire with his typical toughness. To his credit, Aleem came on strong in the later rounds, especially the eleventh and never gave up trying to win. However, the scores were 120-108, 118-110 and 119-109, all for new Martinez.
“I feel good,” said a happy Martinez, post-fight. “I want to thank my parents and family. I want to thank my team: Bomac, Saul, all my team and my promoter Garry Jonas. I want to thank all of you, Guatemala. We now have a world champion! I love Guatemala and all of my fans. I love y’all. Viva Guatemala!
“All respect to Aleem,” the new interim champion continued. “He’s a warrior and we knew how good he was and his experience, but we were ready for that and more. We went in cautious because we knew what we had in front of us. But to hear the Guatemalan fans cheering gave us the will to go on.”
“He had more consistency in the little things and I didn’t capitalize, so shout out to Lester Martinez,” said a disappointed but sportsmanlike Aleem. “It wasn’t the performance I was looking for, but I’m going back to the drawing board to continue my hunt for a world title.”
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Adames dominates Williams |
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Carlos Adames W12 Austin Williams... The middleweight division is at a low moment right now, but Carlos Adames is at the head of the class. The Dominican 160-pounder retained his WBC title in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, with a wide unanimous decision over Austin "Ammo" Williams (20-2). Adames (25-1-1) scored a second-round knockdown, and while he did not end the fight early, he punished Williams for the duration, leaving the challenger with a bloody mouth. Official scores were 117-109 (twice) and 118-108. As for the other middleweight champions, Zhanibek Alimkhanuly tested positive for a banned performance-enhancing substance, which cost him the IBF title. The WBO continues to recognize the disgraced Alimkhanuly as champ. The WBA title is held by 40-something Erislandy Lara, who rarely fights.
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Adames dominates Williams
Carlos Adames W12 Austin Williams... The middleweight division is at a low moment right now, but Carlos Adames is at the head of the class. The Dominican 160-pounder retained his WBC title in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, with a wide unanimous decision over Austin "Ammo" Williams (20-2). Adames (25-1-1) scored a second-round knockdown, and while he did not end the fight early, he punished Williams for the duration, leaving the challenger with a bloody mouth. Official scores were 117-109 (twice) and 118-108. As for the other middleweight champions, Zhanibek Alimkhanuly tested positive for a banned performance-enhancing substance, which cost him the IBF title. The WBO continues to recognize the disgraced Alimkhanuly as champ. The WBA title is held by 40-something Erislandy Lara, who rarely fights.
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Undercard results from California |
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Joshua Kevin Anton TKO1 Kudratillo Abdukakhorov... In a strange turn of events on ProBoxTV’s show in San Bernardino, California, junior middleweight Joshua Kevin Anton (13-0, 12 KOs) of Palmdale, California, picked a surprise stoppage of former contender Kudratillo “The Punisher” Abdukakhorov (22-6, 14 KOs) of Uzbekistan. With plenty of pitched battles in his history, Abdukakhorov began clutching his head in pain at the conclusion of an uncompetitive round one and indicated he was injured and unable to fight. Referee David Solivan accepted Abdukakhorov’s requested retirement officially at 3:00 of round one, per California rules.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
To open the night’s action, former three-time national amateur champion Jocelyn Camarillo (6-0, 1 KO) of Coachella California, made quick work of Isis Sio (1-3) of North Dakota, knocking her out at 1:18 of the opening round. The 21-year-old Camarillo trapped Sio against the ropes and unloaded an extended salvo that left her light flyweight opponent Sio out cold for several tense minutes. Sio was taken from the ring on a stretcher and is currently in a medically induced coma.
Undefeated local fan favorite Albert “Chop Chop” Gonzalez (17-0, 10 KOs) of Riverside, California, had little problem knocking out Owings Mill, Maryland’s Brandon “The Hitter” Chambers (12-5-1, 5 KOs) at 1:47 of the opening round. The 23-year-old featherweight prospect Gonzalez moved in quickly and landed a powerful right hand behind the ear that left Chambers on the mat for an extended period.
LA’s Sam Contreras (5-0, 2 KOs) knocked out overmatched Texan Cesar “El Matrix” Cantu (3-5-2, 1 KO) of Weslaco, Texas. Contreras wisely used his advantages in height and reach and varied his attack to the head and body. The normally durable Cantu had no answers to the educated attack. Referee David Solivan decided the determined but outgunned Cantu didn’t belong in the ring with a prospect at Contreras’ level at 1:09 of round two.
Nineteen year-old Robert Garcia Academy bantamweight prospect Luis Coria (5-0, 5 KOs) of Moreno Valley, California, scored an TKO stoppage of 41-fight veteran Lito Naruto Dante (21-16-4, 12 KOs) of Sierra Bullones, Bohol, Philippines. Normally a durable road warrior, Dante grew tired of absorbing the hammering fists of the young puncher Coria and informed his corner he had had enough at the conclusion of round two.
Junior middleweight Kevin “The Badass” Ventura (12-1, 8 KOs) of Omaha fought his way to a six-round unanimous decision over Riverside, California’s Aaron Watson (2-2-2, 1 KO). Watson started out well throwing powerful right hands, but Ventura came on with every passing round. The in-ring action was closer than the scores of 60-54 by all three judges.
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Undercard results from California
Joshua Kevin Anton TKO1 Kudratillo Abdukakhorov... In a strange turn of events on ProBoxTV’s show in San Bernardino, California, junior middleweight Joshua Kevin Anton (13-0, 12 KOs) of Palmdale, California, picked a surprise stoppage of former contender Kudratillo “The Punisher” Abdukakhorov (22-6, 14 KOs) of Uzbekistan. With plenty of pitched battles in his history, Abdukakhorov began clutching his head in pain at the conclusion of an uncompetitive round one and indicated he was injured and unable to fight. Referee David Solivan accepted Abdukakhorov’s requested retirement officially at 3:00 of round one, per California rules.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
To open the night’s action, former three-time national amateur champion Jocelyn Camarillo (6-0, 1 KO) of Coachella California, made quick work of Isis Sio (1-3) of North Dakota, knocking her out at 1:18 of the opening round. The 21-year-old Camarillo trapped Sio against the ropes and unloaded an extended salvo that left her light flyweight opponent Sio out cold for several tense minutes. Sio was taken from the ring on a stretcher and is currently in a medically induced coma.
Undefeated local fan favorite Albert “Chop Chop” Gonzalez (17-0, 10 KOs) of Riverside, California, had little problem knocking out Owings Mill, Maryland’s Brandon “The Hitter” Chambers (12-5-1, 5 KOs) at 1:47 of the opening round. The 23-year-old featherweight prospect Gonzalez moved in quickly and landed a powerful right hand behind the ear that left Chambers on the mat for an extended period.
LA’s Sam Contreras (5-0, 2 KOs) knocked out overmatched Texan Cesar “El Matrix” Cantu (3-5-2, 1 KO) of Weslaco, Texas. Contreras wisely used his advantages in height and reach and varied his attack to the head and body. The normally durable Cantu had no answers to the educated attack. Referee David Solivan decided the determined but outgunned Cantu didn’t belong in the ring with a prospect at Contreras’ level at 1:09 of round two.
Nineteen year-old Robert Garcia Academy bantamweight prospect Luis Coria (5-0, 5 KOs) of Moreno Valley, California, scored an TKO stoppage of 41-fight veteran Lito Naruto Dante (21-16-4, 12 KOs) of Sierra Bullones, Bohol, Philippines. Normally a durable road warrior, Dante grew tired of absorbing the hammering fists of the young puncher Coria and informed his corner he had had enough at the conclusion of round two.
Junior middleweight Kevin “The Badass” Ventura (12-1, 8 KOs) of Omaha fought his way to a six-round unanimous decision over Riverside, California’s Aaron Watson (2-2-2, 1 KO). Watson started out well throwing powerful right hands, but Ventura came on with every passing round. The in-ring action was closer than the scores of 60-54 by all three judges.
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Liddard retains British title |
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George Liddard W12 Tyler Denny... George Liddard took another step up in competition on Saturday as he put up his British and Commonwealth middleweight titles against Tyler Denny at the Copper Box Arena in London. Liddard (14-0, 8 KOs) had never really been tested. That changed as Denny (21-4-3, 3 KOs) proved to be gritty and tough in not letting Liddard use his size and reach advantage in the first half of the fight. But Liddard figured it out in the second half with his power and activity to defeat Denny by unanimous decision to retain his belts. All three scorecards favored Liddard, eight rounds to four.
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Liddard retains British title
George Liddard W12 Tyler Denny... George Liddard took another step up in competition on Saturday as he put up his British and Commonwealth middleweight titles against Tyler Denny at the Copper Box Arena in London. Liddard (14-0, 8 KOs) had never really been tested. That changed as Denny (21-4-3, 3 KOs) proved to be gritty and tough in not letting Liddard use his size and reach advantage in the first half of the fight. But Liddard figured it out in the second half with his power and activity to defeat Denny by unanimous decision to retain his belts. All three scorecards favored Liddard, eight rounds to four.
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Undefeated men added to April 17th MSG show |
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Star Boxing announced that an undercard bout between two undefeated men will take place on a predominantly womens' card on Friday, April 17th at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Long Island’s Alex Vargas will battle Dublin's Ryan O’Rourke in an eight-round junior welterweight bout on the Most Valuable Promotions show, which will be broadcast live on ESPN and the ESPN App. For Star Boxing, the matchup represents an exciting moment as two of the promotion’s undefeated talents collide on one of the sport’s biggest stages. Vargas (14-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Bellport, New York, will have the hometown advantage. A decorated amateur who captured two Junior Olympic titles and was a finalist for the New York Golden Gloves, Vargas has built a reputation as a slick and technically skilled boxer with sharp footwork and ring intelligence.
“I’ve been doubted my entire career, but that’s what motivated me,” said Vargas. “Fighting at Madison Square Garden is a dream, and on Friday, April 17th it’s time to beat another undefeated fighter and prove I belong here.”
Standing across the ring will be O’Rourke (13-0, 3 KOs), who has steadily built his professional resume competing throughout Europe and the United States. A tall and rangy 140-pounder, O’Rourke is known for using his reach, movement, and body work to control the pace of fights. With around 70 amateur bouts before turning professional, he has developed into one of Ireland’s promising rising fighters and continues to gain experience on the international stage.
“This is the sort of opportunity I’ve been waiting for. Big thanks to Joe DeGuardia, Sheer Sports and MVP for giving it to me,” said O’Rourke. “To come all the way from Ireland and fight in such an iconic venue like MSG is a dream come true, but these are the sort of cards and venues I've always seen myself boxing on, so on Friday, April 17th I’m coming to put on a standout performance and announce myself on the big stage.”
“This is a tremendous opportunity for both fighters,” said Star Boxing CEO Joe DeGuardia. “Alex and Ryan are both undefeated, hungry, and looking to prove themselves on a big stage. Fighting at Madison Square Garden is every fighter’s dream, and this matchup has all the ingredients to be a tremendous fight for the fans.”
The April 17th event will be headlined by unified super featherweight world champion Alycia Baumgardner defending her titles against contender Bo Mi Re Shin in a championship showdown that will headline the night of action. For Vargas and O’Rourke, the bout represents a pivotal step forward in their careers as both undefeated fighters look to make a statement under the bright lights at Madison Square Garden.
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Undefeated men added to April 17th MSG show
Star Boxing announced that an undercard bout between two undefeated men will take place on a predominantly womens' card on Friday, April 17th at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Long Island’s Alex Vargas will battle Dublin's Ryan O’Rourke in an eight-round junior welterweight bout on the Most Valuable Promotions show, which will be broadcast live on ESPN and the ESPN App. For Star Boxing, the matchup represents an exciting moment as two of the promotion’s undefeated talents collide on one of the sport’s biggest stages. Vargas (14-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Bellport, New York, will have the hometown advantage. A decorated amateur who captured two Junior Olympic titles and was a finalist for the New York Golden Gloves, Vargas has built a reputation as a slick and technically skilled boxer with sharp footwork and ring intelligence.
“I’ve been doubted my entire career, but that’s what motivated me,” said Vargas. “Fighting at Madison Square Garden is a dream, and on Friday, April 17th it’s time to beat another undefeated fighter and prove I belong here.”
Standing across the ring will be O’Rourke (13-0, 3 KOs), who has steadily built his professional resume competing throughout Europe and the United States. A tall and rangy 140-pounder, O’Rourke is known for using his reach, movement, and body work to control the pace of fights. With around 70 amateur bouts before turning professional, he has developed into one of Ireland’s promising rising fighters and continues to gain experience on the international stage.
“This is the sort of opportunity I’ve been waiting for. Big thanks to Joe DeGuardia, Sheer Sports and MVP for giving it to me,” said O’Rourke. “To come all the way from Ireland and fight in such an iconic venue like MSG is a dream come true, but these are the sort of cards and venues I've always seen myself boxing on, so on Friday, April 17th I’m coming to put on a standout performance and announce myself on the big stage.”
“This is a tremendous opportunity for both fighters,” said Star Boxing CEO Joe DeGuardia. “Alex and Ryan are both undefeated, hungry, and looking to prove themselves on a big stage. Fighting at Madison Square Garden is every fighter’s dream, and this matchup has all the ingredients to be a tremendous fight for the fans.”
The April 17th event will be headlined by unified super featherweight world champion Alycia Baumgardner defending her titles against contender Bo Mi Re Shin in a championship showdown that will headline the night of action. For Vargas and O’Rourke, the bout represents a pivotal step forward in their careers as both undefeated fighters look to make a statement under the bright lights at Madison Square Garden.
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