Mbilli vs. Sulecki on deck in Quebec City |
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Super middleweight destroyer Christian Mbilli has waited years for this moment and plans to take advantage of it against Polish veteran Maciej Sulecki. Mbilli (28-0, 23 KOs) will lock horns with Sulecki for the WBC interim super middleweight world title this Friday, June 27th at Videotron Centre in Quebec City. The Montreal-based Mbilli, who represented France at the 2016 Olympics, has stopped over 80 percent of his opponents ahead of his first shot at interim gold. Sulecki (33-3, 13 KOs), a former middleweight title challenger, is coming off a stunning tenth-round stoppage over Ali Akhmedov on enemy territory in Kazakhstan. In the co-feature, former two-time title challenger Steven Butler (35-5-2, 29 KOs) takes on Mexico's Jose De Jesus Macias (29-13-4, 15 KOs) in a super middleweight rematch. Macias stunned Butler via fifth-round TKO in 2021. Additionally, heavyweight knockout artist Arslanbek Makhmudov (19-2, 18 KOs) returns in a ten-rounder versus Ontario-based Ricardo Brown (12-0, 11 KOs). Promoted by Eye of the Tiger, Mbilli-Sulecki, Butler-Macias II, Makhmudov-Brown, and additional undercard fights will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.
This is what the Mbilli and Sulecki said at Wednesday's press conference.
Christian Mbilli
“It's been a long time. We’ve been waiting for this day for a long time, but we’ve finally made it. We’re making it happen. And Friday will be a day of glory. The belt will be coming home.”
“I always say that after such a difficult journey, this entire training camp, and all the ups and downs, there has to be someone who will pay the price. And think Sulecki will have to pay for it on Friday.”
"As usual, I expect a spectacular fight, and once again, I’ll be leaving with the victory.”
"I’m not going to say that I will put him out faster than {common opponent} Diego Pacheco did. But I can promise a more spectacular fight, and that, at the end of it, Sulecki will feel more pain than after his fight with Pacheco. That said, if the KO happens, good, because I’m not paid to do overtime."
Maciej Sulecki
“This is a big honor for me. I’m ready for a great fight. I had a good camp, and I had great sparring partners.”
“I know Christian Mbilli is a good fighter. He is very strong and aggressive, and sometimes he’s very wild in the ring. But I know what I have to do in the ring. I’m ready.”
“The most important thing for Mbilli right now is this fight with me. This will be very difficult for him. He can talk all he wants about his plans, but he has to fight me first.”
LIVE on ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT)
Christian Mbilli vs. Maciej Sulecki, 12 rounds, vacant WBC interim super middleweight title;
Steven Butler vs. Jose De Jesus Macias II, 10 rounds, Super Middleweight;
Arslanbek Makhmudov vs. Ricardo Brown, 10 rounds, Heavyweight;
Wilkens Mathieu vs. Adagio McDonald, 8 rounds, Light Heavyweight;
Jhon Orobio vs. Zsolt Osadan, 10 rounds, Junior Welterweight;
Christopher Guerrero vs. Sandy Messaoud, 10 rounds, Welterweight;
Leila Beaudoin vs. Elhem Mekhaled, 10 rounds, Junior Lightweight;
Luis Santana vs. Eduardo Estela, 10 rounds, Lightweight; and
Wyatt Sanford vs. Mark Andrejev, 6 rounds, Junior Welterweight.
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Mbilli vs. Sulecki on deck in Quebec City
Super middleweight destroyer Christian Mbilli has waited years for this moment and plans to take advantage of it against Polish veteran Maciej Sulecki. Mbilli (28-0, 23 KOs) will lock horns with Sulecki for the WBC interim super middleweight world title this Friday, June 27th at Videotron Centre in Quebec City. The Montreal-based Mbilli, who represented France at the 2016 Olympics, has stopped over 80 percent of his opponents ahead of his first shot at interim gold. Sulecki (33-3, 13 KOs), a former middleweight title challenger, is coming off a stunning tenth-round stoppage over Ali Akhmedov on enemy territory in Kazakhstan. In the co-feature, former two-time title challenger Steven Butler (35-5-2, 29 KOs) takes on Mexico's Jose De Jesus Macias (29-13-4, 15 KOs) in a super middleweight rematch. Macias stunned Butler via fifth-round TKO in 2021. Additionally, heavyweight knockout artist Arslanbek Makhmudov (19-2, 18 KOs) returns in a ten-rounder versus Ontario-based Ricardo Brown (12-0, 11 KOs). Promoted by Eye of the Tiger, Mbilli-Sulecki, Butler-Macias II, Makhmudov-Brown, and additional undercard fights will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.
This is what the Mbilli and Sulecki said at Wednesday's press conference.
Christian Mbilli
“It's been a long time. We’ve been waiting for this day for a long time, but we’ve finally made it. We’re making it happen. And Friday will be a day of glory. The belt will be coming home.”
“I always say that after such a difficult journey, this entire training camp, and all the ups and downs, there has to be someone who will pay the price. And think Sulecki will have to pay for it on Friday.”
"As usual, I expect a spectacular fight, and once again, I’ll be leaving with the victory.”
"I’m not going to say that I will put him out faster than {common opponent} Diego Pacheco did. But I can promise a more spectacular fight, and that, at the end of it, Sulecki will feel more pain than after his fight with Pacheco. That said, if the KO happens, good, because I’m not paid to do overtime."
Maciej Sulecki
“This is a big honor for me. I’m ready for a great fight. I had a good camp, and I had great sparring partners.”
“I know Christian Mbilli is a good fighter. He is very strong and aggressive, and sometimes he’s very wild in the ring. But I know what I have to do in the ring. I’m ready.”
“The most important thing for Mbilli right now is this fight with me. This will be very difficult for him. He can talk all he wants about his plans, but he has to fight me first.”
LIVE on ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT)
Christian Mbilli vs. Maciej Sulecki, 12 rounds, vacant WBC interim super middleweight title;
Steven Butler vs. Jose De Jesus Macias II, 10 rounds, Super Middleweight;
Arslanbek Makhmudov vs. Ricardo Brown, 10 rounds, Heavyweight;
Wilkens Mathieu vs. Adagio McDonald, 8 rounds, Light Heavyweight;
Jhon Orobio vs. Zsolt Osadan, 10 rounds, Junior Welterweight;
Christopher Guerrero vs. Sandy Messaoud, 10 rounds, Welterweight;
Leila Beaudoin vs. Elhem Mekhaled, 10 rounds, Junior Lightweight;
Luis Santana vs. Eduardo Estela, 10 rounds, Lightweight; and
Wyatt Sanford vs. Mark Andrejev, 6 rounds, Junior Welterweight.
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Ben Askren hoping for lung transplant |
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Boxingtalk sends its best wishes to former boxer and MMA fighter Ben Askren, who is waiting for a lung transplant according to a Facebook post from Ben's wife Amy. According to the New York Post, Askren was placed on a ventilator after contracting severe pneumonia. He is just 40 years old. Askren was a 2008 Olympian in wrestling and a former Bellator 170-pound champion. He was 19-2 in MMA but is known to boxing fans as a man who came out of retirement to fight Jake Paul in 2021. Paul knocked out Askren in the first round, ending his career. As an MMA fighter, Askren got off to a 19-0 start with one no contest before a July 2019 disastrous five-second loss to Jorge Masvidal. Askren fought once more in 2019, losing by submission to Demian Maia and then announcing his retirement. Askren had hip surgery in 2020 ad then cashed out vs. Paul the following year. Here is what Amy Askren wrote: "As of late last night, Ben is officially on the transplant list. Please pray he can get stronger and stay stable without complications while he waits, and that they find an amazing match for him and he accepts it smoothly... It’s going to be a huge adjustment for Ben, but our family is so thankful that his other organs are ok and that there is a path forward. While he is having more periods of awareness, he’s not able to look at his phone yet and respond to messages. I am hoping he can get there in the next week or two! Also hoping we will get to a place soon where he can talk while [he is] on a trach. Yesterday he kept mouthing something for a while and we finally figured out he was saying coffee! (He cant have it yet lol) What a huge relief to see him asking for something so normal. I’m so thankful his mind is healthy and I can’t wait to have him back. We are also so thankful for the amazing community we have-from close friends, friends We haven’t talked to in 20+ years, to strangers who have reached out to share their similar stories or pray. Thank youthe New York Post.
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Ben Askren hoping for lung transplant
Boxingtalk sends its best wishes to former boxer and MMA fighter Ben Askren, who is waiting for a lung transplant according to a Facebook post from Ben's wife Amy. According to the New York Post, Askren was placed on a ventilator after contracting severe pneumonia. He is just 40 years old. Askren was a 2008 Olympian in wrestling and a former Bellator 170-pound champion. He was 19-2 in MMA but is known to boxing fans as a man who came out of retirement to fight Jake Paul in 2021. Paul knocked out Askren in the first round, ending his career. As an MMA fighter, Askren got off to a 19-0 start with one no contest before a July 2019 disastrous five-second loss to Jorge Masvidal. Askren fought once more in 2019, losing by submission to Demian Maia and then announcing his retirement. Askren had hip surgery in 2020 ad then cashed out vs. Paul the following year. Here is what Amy Askren wrote: "As of late last night, Ben is officially on the transplant list. Please pray he can get stronger and stay stable without complications while he waits, and that they find an amazing match for him and he accepts it smoothly... It’s going to be a huge adjustment for Ben, but our family is so thankful that his other organs are ok and that there is a path forward. While he is having more periods of awareness, he’s not able to look at his phone yet and respond to messages. I am hoping he can get there in the next week or two! Also hoping we will get to a place soon where he can talk while [he is] on a trach. Yesterday he kept mouthing something for a while and we finally figured out he was saying coffee! (He cant have it yet lol) What a huge relief to see him asking for something so normal. I’m so thankful his mind is healthy and I can’t wait to have him back. We are also so thankful for the amazing community we have-from close friends, friends We haven’t talked to in 20+ years, to strangers who have reached out to share their similar stories or pray. Thank youthe New York Post.
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South African boxing analyst Phumlani Msibi dies at age 57 |
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South African boxing has lost a titan in the form of Phumlani Msibi, who recently died at the age of 57. As a television commentator and analyst, he developed a style all his own, at turns understated, informative, engaging and entertaining. And it was a style that fans warmed to, especially when he seemed to enjoy a fight or an individual boxer. His praise would be lavish. At the same time, if a boxer under performed, his criticism would always be calm and measured. He built rather than broke down, always looking to highlight the virtues of boxing. He was a constant ringside presence at Golden Gloves events, SuperSport mic in hand alongside ex-champ Brian Mitchell. The pair established a smooth chemistry, Msibi offering colour and context with Mitchell adding the technical detail and insight. It was like this for over 20 years. With Msibi in the seat, you always knew he would tell the story, and tell it well.
He and Mitchell subsequently worked together on the “Ringside” TV show, again drawing from their expertise to tell the stories that make SA boxing such a vibrant, compelling sport. “He’s the best I ever did commentary with,” said Mitchell, a Hall of Famer at the weekend. “He was very smart, I learned a lot from him. It was an honour to work alongside Phumlani.”
Promoter Rodney Berman knew Msibi well and considered him a friend. The first time he came into Msibi’s orbit was when the late Mzi Mnguni, the late great trainer and a partner of Golden Gloves, hired Msibi as ring announcer. Berman immediately recognized his class. Years later, the dapper commentator joined the travelling Golden Gloves party at a tournament in Monaco where he was never less than stimulating company. He was always friendly and almost always smiling, which reflected his warm, engaging personality. “We spoke just last week,” said Berman. “He was a very special member of the boxing community. No one ever had a bad word to say about him. He was the consummate professional. The best tribute is to say that his words always honoured the fighters.”
Boxingtalk salutes Phumlani Msibi and joins Golden Gloves and the entire South African boxing community in sending its deepest sympathies to his friends and family.
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South African boxing analyst Phumlani Msibi dies at age 57
South African boxing has lost a titan in the form of Phumlani Msibi, who recently died at the age of 57. As a television commentator and analyst, he developed a style all his own, at turns understated, informative, engaging and entertaining. And it was a style that fans warmed to, especially when he seemed to enjoy a fight or an individual boxer. His praise would be lavish. At the same time, if a boxer under performed, his criticism would always be calm and measured. He built rather than broke down, always looking to highlight the virtues of boxing. He was a constant ringside presence at Golden Gloves events, SuperSport mic in hand alongside ex-champ Brian Mitchell. The pair established a smooth chemistry, Msibi offering colour and context with Mitchell adding the technical detail and insight. It was like this for over 20 years. With Msibi in the seat, you always knew he would tell the story, and tell it well.
He and Mitchell subsequently worked together on the “Ringside” TV show, again drawing from their expertise to tell the stories that make SA boxing such a vibrant, compelling sport. “He’s the best I ever did commentary with,” said Mitchell, a Hall of Famer at the weekend. “He was very smart, I learned a lot from him. It was an honour to work alongside Phumlani.”
Promoter Rodney Berman knew Msibi well and considered him a friend. The first time he came into Msibi’s orbit was when the late Mzi Mnguni, the late great trainer and a partner of Golden Gloves, hired Msibi as ring announcer. Berman immediately recognized his class. Years later, the dapper commentator joined the travelling Golden Gloves party at a tournament in Monaco where he was never less than stimulating company. He was always friendly and almost always smiling, which reflected his warm, engaging personality. “We spoke just last week,” said Berman. “He was a very special member of the boxing community. No one ever had a bad word to say about him. He was the consummate professional. The best tribute is to say that his words always honoured the fighters.”
Boxingtalk salutes Phumlani Msibi and joins Golden Gloves and the entire South African boxing community in sending its deepest sympathies to his friends and family.
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Colombians invade Turkiye for double header |
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Istanbul's Sinan Erdem Sport Complex will host a night of international boxing where Turkish talent will face Colombian opponents in two featured bouts.At middleweight, Serhat Güler (8-1, 7 KOs) of Turkey will face Colombia's Juan Diego Ortiz (9-1, 8 KOs). Güler, known for his strong punching and frontal boxing, will look to establish himself as one of the emerging figures in Turkish boxing, while Ortiz arrives on a knockout streak that positions him as a high-risk opponent. A more experienced Turkish boxer, Avni Yildirim (26-5, 15 KOs) will face Colombia's Jhon Caicedo (12-0, 5 KOs) at light heavyweight. Yildirim previously faced Mexican Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez for the world super middleweight championship in February 2021 and was no match, succumbing in the third round. Now he is looking to return to the spotlight with a convincing victory, but he will have to overcome a young Colombian who arrives undefeated and hungry for glory.
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Colombians invade Turkiye for double header
Istanbul's Sinan Erdem Sport Complex will host a night of international boxing where Turkish talent will face Colombian opponents in two featured bouts.At middleweight, Serhat Güler (8-1, 7 KOs) of Turkey will face Colombia's Juan Diego Ortiz (9-1, 8 KOs). Güler, known for his strong punching and frontal boxing, will look to establish himself as one of the emerging figures in Turkish boxing, while Ortiz arrives on a knockout streak that positions him as a high-risk opponent. A more experienced Turkish boxer, Avni Yildirim (26-5, 15 KOs) will face Colombia's Jhon Caicedo (12-0, 5 KOs) at light heavyweight. Yildirim previously faced Mexican Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez for the world super middleweight championship in February 2021 and was no match, succumbing in the third round. Now he is looking to return to the spotlight with a convincing victory, but he will have to overcome a young Colombian who arrives undefeated and hungry for glory.
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Spotlight on Ramirez vs. Dorticos |
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This Saturday, June 28th, the Honda Center in Anaheim, California\ will host a battle that could reshape the cruiserweight landscape. Mexico’s Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (47-1, 30 KOs), the reigning WBA / WBO champion at 200 pounds, puts his crown on the line against former champion Yuniel “Dr. KO” Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs) of Cuba. For the 33 year-old Ramírez (pictured), this is a chance to solidify his hold on the division. Since moving up to cruiserweight, the southpaw has showcased his signature volume punching, methodical pressure, and ring IQ—all proving just as effective against bigger men. His most recent victory over then-WBO champ Chris Billam-Smith was a statement win, unifying titles and making him the first Mexican to claim two belts at cruiserweight. But there’s one thing missing: a knockout in the new weight class. And against a puncher like Dorticos, Ramírez knows that making a statement may matter just as much as getting the win.
His team, led by trainer Julian Chua, isn’t shying away from that expectation. “We want the knockout,” Chua told reporters. “We’re not just here to win on points—we want to leave a mark. Dorticos has power, but he’s got defensive gaps. We’re going to press him, test his gas tank, and push the pace.”
Across the ring stands Dorticos, the 39 year-old former champion known for his explosive power. With 25 of his 27 wins coming by knockout, the Cuban banger has been inactive for over a year, but he enters camp-driven and dangerous, knowing this could be his final shot at glory. He captured the WBA title back in 2017 by flattening Dmitry Kudryashov, and later went to war with Murat Gassiev in a memorable slugfest. Now, he’s aiming to spoil the Zurdo party in Southern California.
The fight promises to be a stylistic chess match wrapped in a powder keg: the measured pressure and southpaw rhythm of Ramírez against the raw power and relentless aggression of Dorticos. It’s method vs. mayhem. Patience vs. urgency.
Tactically, Ramírez may look to wear the Cuban down with body work and control the center of the ring. Dorticos, on the other hand, has no time to waste. The longer the bout stretches, the more it tilts in Zurdo’s favor. That makes the opening rounds critical—Dorticos will need to set the tempo early, and perhaps gamble big to cash in.
The atmosphere at the Honda Center will be electric, with Jake Paul fighting Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in the main event. Thousands of Mexican fans are expected to rally behind Ramírez, who’s become a staple on the West Coast fight scene. But make no mistake—Dorticos didn’t travel to compete. He came to knock someone out.
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Spotlight on Ramirez vs. Dorticos
This Saturday, June 28th, the Honda Center in Anaheim, California\ will host a battle that could reshape the cruiserweight landscape. Mexico’s Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (47-1, 30 KOs), the reigning WBA / WBO champion at 200 pounds, puts his crown on the line against former champion Yuniel “Dr. KO” Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs) of Cuba. For the 33 year-old Ramírez (pictured), this is a chance to solidify his hold on the division. Since moving up to cruiserweight, the southpaw has showcased his signature volume punching, methodical pressure, and ring IQ—all proving just as effective against bigger men. His most recent victory over then-WBO champ Chris Billam-Smith was a statement win, unifying titles and making him the first Mexican to claim two belts at cruiserweight. But there’s one thing missing: a knockout in the new weight class. And against a puncher like Dorticos, Ramírez knows that making a statement may matter just as much as getting the win.
His team, led by trainer Julian Chua, isn’t shying away from that expectation. “We want the knockout,” Chua told reporters. “We’re not just here to win on points—we want to leave a mark. Dorticos has power, but he’s got defensive gaps. We’re going to press him, test his gas tank, and push the pace.”
Across the ring stands Dorticos, the 39 year-old former champion known for his explosive power. With 25 of his 27 wins coming by knockout, the Cuban banger has been inactive for over a year, but he enters camp-driven and dangerous, knowing this could be his final shot at glory. He captured the WBA title back in 2017 by flattening Dmitry Kudryashov, and later went to war with Murat Gassiev in a memorable slugfest. Now, he’s aiming to spoil the Zurdo party in Southern California.
The fight promises to be a stylistic chess match wrapped in a powder keg: the measured pressure and southpaw rhythm of Ramírez against the raw power and relentless aggression of Dorticos. It’s method vs. mayhem. Patience vs. urgency.
Tactically, Ramírez may look to wear the Cuban down with body work and control the center of the ring. Dorticos, on the other hand, has no time to waste. The longer the bout stretches, the more it tilts in Zurdo’s favor. That makes the opening rounds critical—Dorticos will need to set the tempo early, and perhaps gamble big to cash in.
The atmosphere at the Honda Center will be electric, with Jake Paul fighting Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in the main event. Thousands of Mexican fans are expected to rally behind Ramírez, who’s become a staple on the West Coast fight scene. But make no mistake—Dorticos didn’t travel to compete. He came to knock someone out.
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Ex-Olympic coach Joe Byrd Sr. passes away at 89 |
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MLive.com reports that Joe Byrd, Sr. of Flint, Michigan, a former Olympic coach and a man who trained his undersized son to two heavyweight championships, passed away on Monday at age 89. Boxing attorney John Hornewer wrote that "Joe was the patriarch of eight uniquely talented and special children that he had with his lovely wife Rose. Joe was also a formidable boxing coach. He was the head coach of the 1992 U.S. Olympic Team and followed that by leading his son Chris to two heavyweight championships (this after winning a silver medal at 165 pounds at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona). A number of boxers from Flint owe much to Joe Byrd. More importantly, Joe gave all he had and then some to his family and to those who had the pleasure of working with him and making his acquaintance. To his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, deepest sympathies from me my family. One of the last of his kind."
Former WBC champion Anthony Dirrell, who first trained with Byrd in Flint was quoted by MLive as saying, “Joe Byrd was just an icon in Flint. The whole family was dedicated to the sport of boxing. He was a hell of a coach, a hell of a father and grandfather. If you had him, you definitely would have had one of the best. He worked with a lot of kids.”
Boxingtalk sends its deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Joe Byrd, Sr., including former heavyweight champion Chris Byrd.
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Ex-Olympic coach Joe Byrd Sr. passes away at 89
MLive.com reports that Joe Byrd, Sr. of Flint, Michigan, a former Olympic coach and a man who trained his undersized son to two heavyweight championships, passed away on Monday at age 89. Boxing attorney John Hornewer wrote that "Joe was the patriarch of eight uniquely talented and special children that he had with his lovely wife Rose. Joe was also a formidable boxing coach. He was the head coach of the 1992 U.S. Olympic Team and followed that by leading his son Chris to two heavyweight championships (this after winning a silver medal at 165 pounds at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona). A number of boxers from Flint owe much to Joe Byrd. More importantly, Joe gave all he had and then some to his family and to those who had the pleasure of working with him and making his acquaintance. To his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, deepest sympathies from me my family. One of the last of his kind."
Former WBC champion Anthony Dirrell, who first trained with Byrd in Flint was quoted by MLive as saying, “Joe Byrd was just an icon in Flint. The whole family was dedicated to the sport of boxing. He was a hell of a coach, a hell of a father and grandfather. If you had him, you definitely would have had one of the best. He worked with a lot of kids.”
Boxingtalk sends its deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Joe Byrd, Sr., including former heavyweight champion Chris Byrd.
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Kuroki to defend 105-pound title in Tokyo this week |
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On June 26th, the legendary Korakuen Hall in Tokyo will be the stage for a clash of generations as reigning champion Yuko Kuroki (24-8-2, 9 KOs) defends her WBA women’s minimumweight title against Nanako Suzuki (9-3, 3 KOs). Both fighters hail from Japan. Both know Korakuen Hall like the back of their hand. But only one will walk out with the belt. At 34 years old, Kuroki is a seasoned southpaw with championship pedigree. A titleholder under other sanctioning bodies from 2014 to 2017, she brings a wealth of big-fight experience and ring IQ. This marks her first title defense since capturing the WBA strap earlier in 2024, and she’s determined to solidify her reign.
Across the ring will be Suzuki, just 25 years old and riding a wave of momentum. While she lacks Kuroki’s resume, she makes up for it with youth, pressure, and fearless aggression—traits that have carried her to a string of impressive wins over the past year. Suzuki embodies the new wave of Japanese boxing talent, hungry to make her mark on the world stage.
It’s a classic clash of styles: the technical precision and counterpunching of Kuroki versus the pressure and forward drive of Suzuki.
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Kuroki to defend 105-pound title in Tokyo this week
On June 26th, the legendary Korakuen Hall in Tokyo will be the stage for a clash of generations as reigning champion Yuko Kuroki (24-8-2, 9 KOs) defends her WBA women’s minimumweight title against Nanako Suzuki (9-3, 3 KOs). Both fighters hail from Japan. Both know Korakuen Hall like the back of their hand. But only one will walk out with the belt. At 34 years old, Kuroki is a seasoned southpaw with championship pedigree. A titleholder under other sanctioning bodies from 2014 to 2017, she brings a wealth of big-fight experience and ring IQ. This marks her first title defense since capturing the WBA strap earlier in 2024, and she’s determined to solidify her reign.
Across the ring will be Suzuki, just 25 years old and riding a wave of momentum. While she lacks Kuroki’s resume, she makes up for it with youth, pressure, and fearless aggression—traits that have carried her to a string of impressive wins over the past year. Suzuki embodies the new wave of Japanese boxing talent, hungry to make her mark on the world stage.
It’s a classic clash of styles: the technical precision and counterpunching of Kuroki versus the pressure and forward drive of Suzuki.
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Four big fights set for Riyadh on Aug. 16th |
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Boxing returns to the forefront of Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, August 16th with four big fights currently scheduled. Top of the bill is a heavyweight showdown between the 20 year-old Moses Itauma taking on former title challenger Dillian Whyte in a major test of his current credentials... Featherweight star Nick Ball, 28, will make a third defense of his WBA world title when he goes up against Sam Goodman... IBO 130-pound champion Anthony Cacace will take on ex-featherweight champ Ray Ford, with the American having moved up a division... Back at heavyweight, another two Queensberry fighters will trade bombs when Filip Hrgovic goes up against the British champion David Adeleye and... Elsewhere on the card, Japanese featherweight talent Hayato Tsutumi will face former British Olympian Qais Ashfaq.
Itauma defeated Mike Balogun last time out in May via a second round stoppage. Whyte, age 37, previously held the WBC interim belt and challenged Tyson Fury for the full world championship at Wembley Stadium in April 2022.
Both the British Ball and the Australian Goodman are undefeated, with Ball having defended the belt he won against Ray Ford in June of last year against Ronny Rios and TJ Doheny. Goodman, age 26, was due to take on Naoya Inoue at the beginning of the year, but was forced to withdraw due to suffering a cut in sparring. He now steps up a weight for his maiden world title shot.
Cacace has defended his IBO belt on four occasions - against Damien Wrzesinski, Joe Cordina, Josh Warrington and, most recently in May, Leigh Wood - and now he returns to the scene of his triumph over Cordina, from whom he took the IBF world title from. Ford has fought twice since Ball inflicted a first defeat on his record, with his last appearance coming in April when he defeated Thomas Mattice.
Hrgovic, age 33, defeated Joe Joyce in April over ten rounds to bounce back from his first career defeat against Daniel Dubois, while Adeleye, age 28, seized the Lonsdale belt with victory over Jeamie Tshikeva in Manchester, having previously won the English title with a first round stoppage of Solomon Dacres.
“This is a fantastic card and platform for the Queensberry fighters to shine once again in Saudi Arabia as part of Riyadh Season,” said promoter Frank Warren. “The finest young heavyweight in the world in Moses Itauma taking a gigantic step forward against Dillian Whyte will grab most of the attention and it deserves to, but Nick Ball defending his world title against Sam Goodman is a terrific scrap between two undefeated fighters.
“Anto Cacace against Ray Ford has got all the makings of a true classic and we all know just how good both men are, plus we’ve got a battle between two heavyweight contenders jockeying for position in Filip Hrgovic and David Adeleye.”
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Four big fights set for Riyadh on Aug. 16th
Boxing returns to the forefront of Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, August 16th with four big fights currently scheduled. Top of the bill is a heavyweight showdown between the 20 year-old Moses Itauma taking on former title challenger Dillian Whyte in a major test of his current credentials... Featherweight star Nick Ball, 28, will make a third defense of his WBA world title when he goes up against Sam Goodman... IBO 130-pound champion Anthony Cacace will take on ex-featherweight champ Ray Ford, with the American having moved up a division... Back at heavyweight, another two Queensberry fighters will trade bombs when Filip Hrgovic goes up against the British champion David Adeleye and... Elsewhere on the card, Japanese featherweight talent Hayato Tsutumi will face former British Olympian Qais Ashfaq.
Itauma defeated Mike Balogun last time out in May via a second round stoppage. Whyte, age 37, previously held the WBC interim belt and challenged Tyson Fury for the full world championship at Wembley Stadium in April 2022.
Both the British Ball and the Australian Goodman are undefeated, with Ball having defended the belt he won against Ray Ford in June of last year against Ronny Rios and TJ Doheny. Goodman, age 26, was due to take on Naoya Inoue at the beginning of the year, but was forced to withdraw due to suffering a cut in sparring. He now steps up a weight for his maiden world title shot.
Cacace has defended his IBO belt on four occasions - against Damien Wrzesinski, Joe Cordina, Josh Warrington and, most recently in May, Leigh Wood - and now he returns to the scene of his triumph over Cordina, from whom he took the IBF world title from. Ford has fought twice since Ball inflicted a first defeat on his record, with his last appearance coming in April when he defeated Thomas Mattice.
Hrgovic, age 33, defeated Joe Joyce in April over ten rounds to bounce back from his first career defeat against Daniel Dubois, while Adeleye, age 28, seized the Lonsdale belt with victory over Jeamie Tshikeva in Manchester, having previously won the English title with a first round stoppage of Solomon Dacres.
“This is a fantastic card and platform for the Queensberry fighters to shine once again in Saudi Arabia as part of Riyadh Season,” said promoter Frank Warren. “The finest young heavyweight in the world in Moses Itauma taking a gigantic step forward against Dillian Whyte will grab most of the attention and it deserves to, but Nick Ball defending his world title against Sam Goodman is a terrific scrap between two undefeated fighters.
“Anto Cacace against Ray Ford has got all the makings of a true classic and we all know just how good both men are, plus we’ve got a battle between two heavyweight contenders jockeying for position in Filip Hrgovic and David Adeleye.”
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Alvarez vs. Crawford press tour highlights |
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Over the weekend, the two participant's in September's biggest fight faced on a press tour with stops in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and New York City. Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (pictured) will defend his undisputed super middleweight championship against multi-division champ Terence Crawford on September 13th at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. But this past weekend, there was a press conference and a face-off, where the highly anticipated fight between two of today’s elite boxers was promoted. The conference began with a lot of respect for each other, with both taking to the microphones to praise each otherl:
Alvarez said, “He’s a great fighter. I’ve been in this situation many times. I’m motivated, I want to make history with this fight. I’m a winner. I always think about winning.”
Crawford said, “I asked for Canelo because he’s a great fighter. He’s fought [Miguel] Cotto, [Floyd] Mayweather, GGG [Gennady Golovkin] in mega-fights. And this is my mega-fight, it’s my moment, that’s why I asked to face Canelo, He’s one of the best boxers I’ll face in my career. I’m going to prepare for everything.”
But little by little, the tension began to rise when the Mexican recalled that he rejected a fight against Crawford, arguing that he had nothing to gain and that he would win this fight: “He’s not going to beat me. I think this fight will go down in boxing history. I hope he doesn’t run, because people deserve to see a good fight. I hope he puts up a good fight. I know my abilities and I’m very confident about them,” said the 168-pound champion.
Crawford simply said that he would take the belts and assured that he was different from the Mexican’s other rivals: “I’m going to take your belts, I’m going to take them home. They’re on their way, I know it. You’re going to remember, I want you to remember, that’s the intention, for you to remember.”
Tensions exploded in New York when both boxers took offense at each other’s statements. Dana White, the promoter of the fight, asked Crawford if he wanted to wear his belts for the photo, but the American replied that he didn’t because he would soon be carrying “Canelo’s” on his shoulders. This irritated Alvarez who pushed his rival during the confrontation.
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Alvarez vs. Crawford press tour highlights
Over the weekend, the two participant's in September's biggest fight faced on a press tour with stops in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and New York City. Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (pictured) will defend his undisputed super middleweight championship against multi-division champ Terence Crawford on September 13th at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. But this past weekend, there was a press conference and a face-off, where the highly anticipated fight between two of today’s elite boxers was promoted. The conference began with a lot of respect for each other, with both taking to the microphones to praise each otherl:
Alvarez said, “He’s a great fighter. I’ve been in this situation many times. I’m motivated, I want to make history with this fight. I’m a winner. I always think about winning.”
Crawford said, “I asked for Canelo because he’s a great fighter. He’s fought [Miguel] Cotto, [Floyd] Mayweather, GGG [Gennady Golovkin] in mega-fights. And this is my mega-fight, it’s my moment, that’s why I asked to face Canelo, He’s one of the best boxers I’ll face in my career. I’m going to prepare for everything.”
But little by little, the tension began to rise when the Mexican recalled that he rejected a fight against Crawford, arguing that he had nothing to gain and that he would win this fight: “He’s not going to beat me. I think this fight will go down in boxing history. I hope he doesn’t run, because people deserve to see a good fight. I hope he puts up a good fight. I know my abilities and I’m very confident about them,” said the 168-pound champion.
Crawford simply said that he would take the belts and assured that he was different from the Mexican’s other rivals: “I’m going to take your belts, I’m going to take them home. They’re on their way, I know it. You’re going to remember, I want you to remember, that’s the intention, for you to remember.”
Tensions exploded in New York when both boxers took offense at each other’s statements. Dana White, the promoter of the fight, asked Crawford if he wanted to wear his belts for the photo, but the American replied that he didn’t because he would soon be carrying “Canelo’s” on his shoulders. This irritated Alvarez who pushed his rival during the confrontation.
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Welcome to Deontay Wilder comeback week |
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Only two weeks after his last fight, Kansas super middlweight Marco “El Tiburon” Romero (8-0, 7 KOs) returns this Friday night in Wichita to fight on the “Legacy Reloaded” card, presented by Global Combat Collective. The show is headlined by the ring return of former heavyweight champion and 2008 US Olympic bronze medalist Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (pictured). In the ten-round main event, Wilder (43-4-1, 42 KOs) takes on Tyrrell Herndon (24-5, 15 KOs), while Romero faces Hawaii's Andre Amaro (2-0, 2 KOs) in a scheduled six-round bout. “Legacy Reloaded” will air live from the Charles Koch Arena, starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, and be distributed by BLK Prine and Integrated Sports across the United States and Canada for $24.95. It will also be available for streaming via Digital PPV and BLKPrime.com.
In his fourth fight of 2025, Romero attacked his opponent from the opening bell, displaying another vicious body attack, to register a second-round technical knockout of Nafys Anas Garner (4-2) on June 14th in Portland, Maine. “Any opportunity I have to step in the ring, especially in Kansas, I’m going to give the audience my best,” Romero concluded. “It’s important for me to put on a show to gain new fans in Kansas and from around the world. Anybody who wants to get on the ‘El Tiburon’ train is welcome.”
“Marco is excited to be on this card that is so close to his home, and he is more than ready to notch his ninth victory,” manager/head coach Brown commented. “He’s inching his way to Kansas City, where he will have the opportunity to display his talents in front of a home crown on September 6 in his hometown of Olathe, Kansas.”
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Welcome to Deontay Wilder comeback week
Only two weeks after his last fight, Kansas super middlweight Marco “El Tiburon” Romero (8-0, 7 KOs) returns this Friday night in Wichita to fight on the “Legacy Reloaded” card, presented by Global Combat Collective. The show is headlined by the ring return of former heavyweight champion and 2008 US Olympic bronze medalist Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (pictured). In the ten-round main event, Wilder (43-4-1, 42 KOs) takes on Tyrrell Herndon (24-5, 15 KOs), while Romero faces Hawaii's Andre Amaro (2-0, 2 KOs) in a scheduled six-round bout. “Legacy Reloaded” will air live from the Charles Koch Arena, starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, and be distributed by BLK Prine and Integrated Sports across the United States and Canada for $24.95. It will also be available for streaming via Digital PPV and BLKPrime.com.
In his fourth fight of 2025, Romero attacked his opponent from the opening bell, displaying another vicious body attack, to register a second-round technical knockout of Nafys Anas Garner (4-2) on June 14th in Portland, Maine. “Any opportunity I have to step in the ring, especially in Kansas, I’m going to give the audience my best,” Romero concluded. “It’s important for me to put on a show to gain new fans in Kansas and from around the world. Anybody who wants to get on the ‘El Tiburon’ train is welcome.”
“Marco is excited to be on this card that is so close to his home, and he is more than ready to notch his ninth victory,” manager/head coach Brown commented. “He’s inching his way to Kansas City, where he will have the opportunity to display his talents in front of a home crown on September 6 in his hometown of Olathe, Kansas.”
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Walsh hopes to fight Vargas on Sept. 13th |
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Callum Walsh TKO5 Elias Espadas... Irish junior middleweight Callum Walsh (14-0, 11 KOs) scored a fifth-round technical decision victory over Elias Espadas (23-7-1, 16 KOs) at the Chumash Casino, Santa Ynez, California. Following an accidental clash of heads that occurred during round two, ring doctor Tony Hicks inspected the cut on Walsh's right eyelid prior to round three and once again prior to round six. The second time saw the fight was halted. The scorecards were consulted and Walsh was the decisive winner with a score of 50-40 across the board.
Tom Loeffler of 360 Promotions who is Walsh's promoter, had plastic surgeon Dr. Pearlman Hicks on hand. He sealed the wound with eight stitches. Dr. Hicks has fifty years experience, including sealing the massive cuts Vitali Klitschko suffered in his 2003 fight against WBC heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis. That back then took sixty stiches applied to several skin layers. Walsh's cut is nowhere near as severe. However, the California State Athletic Commission automatically rules that Smith will not be able to fight for sixty days while he heals.
Post-fight, Walsh accepted a challenge from also fellow undefeated Fernando Vargas Jr. and the aim is for them to fight on the undercard of the Alvarez-Crawford show in Las Vegas on September 13th.
Loeffler said: ”I was very impressed by the way that Callum came out. He`s a very fast starter. You could see the distinct difference in speed, power and accuracy. This was definitely a good test for him concerning the way Elias Espadas boxed in his last fight fought against undefeated Sadriddin Akhmedov. I expected a very tough and rugged fight and that`s what we were getting, until the clash of heads in the second round. And I was impressed with how Callum retained his composure, purpose and his poise, with the blood streaming down his body, still able to engage and land on Espadas. So it went into the fifth round and the referee called the ring doctor in and they stopped the fight, with Callum winning every round. Callum has been automatically suspended for sixty days. That gives him plenty of time and we are going to try to get him on to the Canelo vs. Crawford Show and it should be fine for him to heal by then. This is the third time that Dr. Pearlman Hicks has sewed up Callum. Twice on his face and once on his hand, so Callum was in good hands from one of the best plastic surgeons I've ever seen."
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Walsh hopes to fight Vargas on Sept. 13th
Callum Walsh TKO5 Elias Espadas... Irish junior middleweight Callum Walsh (14-0, 11 KOs) scored a fifth-round technical decision victory over Elias Espadas (23-7-1, 16 KOs) at the Chumash Casino, Santa Ynez, California. Following an accidental clash of heads that occurred during round two, ring doctor Tony Hicks inspected the cut on Walsh's right eyelid prior to round three and once again prior to round six. The second time saw the fight was halted. The scorecards were consulted and Walsh was the decisive winner with a score of 50-40 across the board.
Tom Loeffler of 360 Promotions who is Walsh's promoter, had plastic surgeon Dr. Pearlman Hicks on hand. He sealed the wound with eight stitches. Dr. Hicks has fifty years experience, including sealing the massive cuts Vitali Klitschko suffered in his 2003 fight against WBC heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis. That back then took sixty stiches applied to several skin layers. Walsh's cut is nowhere near as severe. However, the California State Athletic Commission automatically rules that Smith will not be able to fight for sixty days while he heals.
Post-fight, Walsh accepted a challenge from also fellow undefeated Fernando Vargas Jr. and the aim is for them to fight on the undercard of the Alvarez-Crawford show in Las Vegas on September 13th.
Loeffler said: ”I was very impressed by the way that Callum came out. He`s a very fast starter. You could see the distinct difference in speed, power and accuracy. This was definitely a good test for him concerning the way Elias Espadas boxed in his last fight fought against undefeated Sadriddin Akhmedov. I expected a very tough and rugged fight and that`s what we were getting, until the clash of heads in the second round. And I was impressed with how Callum retained his composure, purpose and his poise, with the blood streaming down his body, still able to engage and land on Espadas. So it went into the fifth round and the referee called the ring doctor in and they stopped the fight, with Callum winning every round. Callum has been automatically suspended for sixty days. That gives him plenty of time and we are going to try to get him on to the Canelo vs. Crawford Show and it should be fine for him to heal by then. This is the third time that Dr. Pearlman Hicks has sewed up Callum. Twice on his face and once on his hand, so Callum was in good hands from one of the best plastic surgeons I've ever seen."
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Kingsley Ibeh to face Gerald Washington in El Salvador |
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Toro Promotions, Inc. has announced that it will expand its market on the international scene by promoting its first pro boxing event on September 20th in El Salvador. The show is scheduled to be headlined by a ten-round heavyweight fight between Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (15-2-1, 13 KOs), who has won his last 10 fights in a row, against Gerald Washington (21-6-1, 14 KOs) Also scheduled to be in action are Austin Brooks (13-0-1, 6 KOs) in a twelve-round junior lightweight fight. The show's venue will be Gimnasio Nacional Jose Adolfo Pineda in San Salvador, the capital and largest city in El Salvador.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele’s broader vision includes his country becoming a center for major boxing and MMA events. Its Boxing Federation recently appointed International Boxing & MMA Consultants, Inc. (“IBMC”) as the national athletic commission overseeing professional boxing, mixed martial arts, and other combat sports in El Salvador.
“With El Salvador attracting huge interest and investment to serve as a regional and global hub for boxing and MMA, Toro Promotions is spearheading this endeavor,” Toro’s promoter Azat Torosyan said. “We are proud to promote and organize the first international pro boxing event in El Salvador. Toro Promotions also welcomes the opportunity to work with Mr. Campuzano and his expert team to ensure the highest global standards of safety and fairness for athletes competing under our banner.”
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JUNE 17, 2025: El Salvador has a goal to become a center for major boxing and MMA events as part of President Nayib Bukele’s broader vision. The Central American nation's boxing federation has appointed International Boxing & MMA Consultants, Inc. (“IBMC”) as the national athletic commission overseeing professional boxing, mixed martial arts, and other combat sports in El Salvador. IBMC has provided consultation, services, training, and assistance for combat sport commissions in countries such as Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Poland, and Bermuda. It is led by former Illinois Boxing Commissioner Joel Campuzano, who has decades of experience in boxing and MMA, working with commission officials across the United States, Canada, Central America, as well as serving in South America as a Latin American Liaison for the Association of Boxing Commissioners (ABC).
“We at International Boxing & MMA are gratified that the Salvadorian Boxing Federation has entrusted us with helping to support this new, exciting phase of professional combative sports in the country,” Campuzano said. “We understand that El Salvador is attracting huge interest and investment to serve as a regional and global hub for boxing and MMA. Our experienced team and extensive industry network are ready, under the authority and reporting to the national government authority to support that growth, while emphasizing safety and fairness in the ring, the cage, and on the mat. El Salvador will become the Gold Standard of the region.”
IBMC will be responsible for licensing, regulating, and reporting pending events and results of professional boxing, MMA, and all other professional combat sport events in El Salvador in order to continue attracting attention worldwide as a welcome venue for combat sports.
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Kingsley Ibeh to face Gerald Washington in El Salvador
Toro Promotions, Inc. has announced that it will expand its market on the international scene by promoting its first pro boxing event on September 20th in El Salvador. The show is scheduled to be headlined by a ten-round heavyweight fight between Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (15-2-1, 13 KOs), who has won his last 10 fights in a row, against Gerald Washington (21-6-1, 14 KOs) Also scheduled to be in action are Austin Brooks (13-0-1, 6 KOs) in a twelve-round junior lightweight fight. The show's venue will be Gimnasio Nacional Jose Adolfo Pineda in San Salvador, the capital and largest city in El Salvador.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele’s broader vision includes his country becoming a center for major boxing and MMA events. Its Boxing Federation recently appointed International Boxing & MMA Consultants, Inc. (“IBMC”) as the national athletic commission overseeing professional boxing, mixed martial arts, and other combat sports in El Salvador.
“With El Salvador attracting huge interest and investment to serve as a regional and global hub for boxing and MMA, Toro Promotions is spearheading this endeavor,” Toro’s promoter Azat Torosyan said. “We are proud to promote and organize the first international pro boxing event in El Salvador. Toro Promotions also welcomes the opportunity to work with Mr. Campuzano and his expert team to ensure the highest global standards of safety and fairness for athletes competing under our banner.”
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JUNE 17, 2025: El Salvador has a goal to become a center for major boxing and MMA events as part of President Nayib Bukele’s broader vision. The Central American nation's boxing federation has appointed International Boxing & MMA Consultants, Inc. (“IBMC”) as the national athletic commission overseeing professional boxing, mixed martial arts, and other combat sports in El Salvador. IBMC has provided consultation, services, training, and assistance for combat sport commissions in countries such as Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Poland, and Bermuda. It is led by former Illinois Boxing Commissioner Joel Campuzano, who has decades of experience in boxing and MMA, working with commission officials across the United States, Canada, Central America, as well as serving in South America as a Latin American Liaison for the Association of Boxing Commissioners (ABC).
“We at International Boxing & MMA are gratified that the Salvadorian Boxing Federation has entrusted us with helping to support this new, exciting phase of professional combative sports in the country,” Campuzano said. “We understand that El Salvador is attracting huge interest and investment to serve as a regional and global hub for boxing and MMA. Our experienced team and extensive industry network are ready, under the authority and reporting to the national government authority to support that growth, while emphasizing safety and fairness in the ring, the cage, and on the mat. El Salvador will become the Gold Standard of the region.”
IBMC will be responsible for licensing, regulating, and reporting pending events and results of professional boxing, MMA, and all other professional combat sport events in El Salvador in order to continue attracting attention worldwide as a welcome venue for combat sports.
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A few words with featherweight Imani Lee |
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Featherweight Iman Lee (14-0, 8 KOs) showed poise, precision, and maturity beyond his years on Saturday, outclassing Mexico's Hector Munguia Calderon (15-1-1, 9 KOs) over six rounds to advance to phase three of the WBC Grand Prix single-elimination tournament. Fighting at the Global Theater in Riyadh’s Boulevard City and live on DAZN, Lee controlled the pace of the bout and neutralized the aggressive Munguia with superb defense, intelligent angles, and sharp counterpunching to earn a unanimous decision by scores of 59-55 (twice) and 58-56. “The fight went pretty much as we expected,” admitted Lee immediately after the victory. “We were prepared for him to be even more aggressive.”
In a classic contrast of styles, Munguia pressed forward from the opening bell, trying to back the American to the ropes while Lee calmly fired accurate counters while gauging timing and distance. The difference in skill became clear in round two, as the Yonkers, New York native began to carve Munguia up from close range, landing a crisp left uppercut on the inside and switching directions to fire sneaky counter shots to the body.
Lee’s defense was on display in round three, as Munguia increased the pressure and began cutting off the ring more effectively. Lee responded by catching shots on his right glove or rolling them off his left shoulder, then firing back with clean combinations to the head and body before spinning out of harm’s way. Munguia turned to plan B in round four, switching to southpaw and letting his hands go with looping lefts and rights. Lee absorbed a few shots but adjusted and avoided most of the incoming, answering with a beautiful counter uppercut that snapped the Mexican’s head back late in the round.
“I think him turning southpaw allowed for more openings with the right hand,” explained Lee. “I didn’t have to make too many adjustments — just not stay on the ropes for too long and if I did, I had to get my shots off, spin him, or grab and place him where I wanted him to be.”
That strategy worked well, as Lee was ahead on all judges scorecards heading into round five. Knowing that the fight was slipping away, Munguia came out swinging over the final two rounds. Lee remained composed, creating distance by landing stiff jabs, picking his moments to counter and slipping out of range when needed down the stretch. “It was a bit different fighting out here the second time around, being that I got my feet wet in the first phase and knew what to expect,” said Lee. “We made the proper adjustments from the previous fight — staying calm and taking advantage of a lot of the openings. I’m looking to continue to improve in phase three.”
With the win, the 25-year-old moves one step closer to the Grand Finale. Phase three takes place in October and will pit the Yonkers native against Brandon Mosqueda, another unbeaten Mexican puncher.
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A few words with featherweight Imani Lee
Featherweight Iman Lee (14-0, 8 KOs) showed poise, precision, and maturity beyond his years on Saturday, outclassing Mexico's Hector Munguia Calderon (15-1-1, 9 KOs) over six rounds to advance to phase three of the WBC Grand Prix single-elimination tournament. Fighting at the Global Theater in Riyadh’s Boulevard City and live on DAZN, Lee controlled the pace of the bout and neutralized the aggressive Munguia with superb defense, intelligent angles, and sharp counterpunching to earn a unanimous decision by scores of 59-55 (twice) and 58-56. “The fight went pretty much as we expected,” admitted Lee immediately after the victory. “We were prepared for him to be even more aggressive.”
In a classic contrast of styles, Munguia pressed forward from the opening bell, trying to back the American to the ropes while Lee calmly fired accurate counters while gauging timing and distance. The difference in skill became clear in round two, as the Yonkers, New York native began to carve Munguia up from close range, landing a crisp left uppercut on the inside and switching directions to fire sneaky counter shots to the body.
Lee’s defense was on display in round three, as Munguia increased the pressure and began cutting off the ring more effectively. Lee responded by catching shots on his right glove or rolling them off his left shoulder, then firing back with clean combinations to the head and body before spinning out of harm’s way. Munguia turned to plan B in round four, switching to southpaw and letting his hands go with looping lefts and rights. Lee absorbed a few shots but adjusted and avoided most of the incoming, answering with a beautiful counter uppercut that snapped the Mexican’s head back late in the round.
“I think him turning southpaw allowed for more openings with the right hand,” explained Lee. “I didn’t have to make too many adjustments — just not stay on the ropes for too long and if I did, I had to get my shots off, spin him, or grab and place him where I wanted him to be.”
That strategy worked well, as Lee was ahead on all judges scorecards heading into round five. Knowing that the fight was slipping away, Munguia came out swinging over the final two rounds. Lee remained composed, creating distance by landing stiff jabs, picking his moments to counter and slipping out of range when needed down the stretch. “It was a bit different fighting out here the second time around, being that I got my feet wet in the first phase and knew what to expect,” said Lee. “We made the proper adjustments from the previous fight — staying calm and taking advantage of a lot of the openings. I’m looking to continue to improve in phase three.”
With the win, the 25-year-old moves one step closer to the Grand Finale. Phase three takes place in October and will pit the Yonkers native against Brandon Mosqueda, another unbeaten Mexican puncher.
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Welcome to Paul vs. Chavez fight week |
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Jake Paul faces another former champion from a bygone era this weekend when he steps into the ring with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. [From 2011 to 2012, Chavez was the WBC middleweight champion. Paul vs. Chavez will be at cruiserweight]. The boasts and promises from ‘The Problem Child’ are consistent as ever heading into battle as he once again vowed to deliver an emphatic victory whoile also maintaining that the day will come when he becomes world champion. For that to happen, this latest path on that quest, must be one that Paul handles impressively, but is he capable of disposing of Chavez Jr in a vicious and simple manner? The answer is simple – he has to if his boxing credentials are ever to be taken seriously.
Paul’s improvements, notable ones that some boxing traditionalists will not admit, have been identified in recent years as his time in the gym under solid tutelage has seen him master some old crafts that have helped in certain situations. At the level he operates at, against fellow novices or boxing neophytes, Paul looks comfortable under pressure, he knows how to smother and spoil, and he is not afraid to let his hands go. That has allowed him to dominate certain fighters, but never enough to make observers fully back him when the going might get tough.
Paul had his backers when he takes on the likes of Mike Tyson, age 58 at the time, and a man who had been inactive for the best part of 20 years. Now with Chavez Jr, a former middleweight ruler now intent on doing as little as possible in the ring, will those supporting his chances of victory at this echelon of the sport consider him a threat against any current ranked contender? Ask plenty in the know and they will tell you that numerous former world champions, inactive for many years, would be too smart and experienced for Paul. Numerous spats with Carl Froch and Tony Bellew have created speculation the retired Brits could one day be opposing Paul in the ring, and there would be many backing the previous world champions.
Take that forward a few spaces and assess the current world champions around the cruiserweight division Paul operates in. Who do you see who Paul could defeat, or even be competitive against?
Jai Opetaia? Zurdo Ramirez? Dmitry Bivol? Artur Beterbiev? A lengthy list of dangerous men sit comfortably in the positions Paul believes he is capable of filling, and they do not appear to be going anywhere just yet. What about the contenders a level below, who are more than capable of getting their hands on a world title anywhere between light-heavyweight and the land of boxing’s giants? Chris Billam-Smith? Anthony Yarde? Viddal Riley? Is this an area where Paul is targeting?
One that could realistically aid his world title hopes, or is his current strategy of targeting marketable greats from yesteryear enough to quench his fighting thirst?
If it is the former, then Paul must start proving that. Tyson, Anderson Silva, and Nate Diaz have all taken Paul the distance in recent bouts. If the popular Ohioan can end Chavez Jr’s hopes before the final bell, something Canelo Alvarez could not manage, then he will every right to dream bigger.
Paul will always have his doubters in boxing, the toughest of sports, but he also holds the power to convince them his aspirations are genuine and that must start this Saturday night.
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Welcome to Paul vs. Chavez fight week
Jake Paul faces another former champion from a bygone era this weekend when he steps into the ring with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. [From 2011 to 2012, Chavez was the WBC middleweight champion. Paul vs. Chavez will be at cruiserweight]. The boasts and promises from ‘The Problem Child’ are consistent as ever heading into battle as he once again vowed to deliver an emphatic victory whoile also maintaining that the day will come when he becomes world champion. For that to happen, this latest path on that quest, must be one that Paul handles impressively, but is he capable of disposing of Chavez Jr in a vicious and simple manner? The answer is simple – he has to if his boxing credentials are ever to be taken seriously.
Paul’s improvements, notable ones that some boxing traditionalists will not admit, have been identified in recent years as his time in the gym under solid tutelage has seen him master some old crafts that have helped in certain situations. At the level he operates at, against fellow novices or boxing neophytes, Paul looks comfortable under pressure, he knows how to smother and spoil, and he is not afraid to let his hands go. That has allowed him to dominate certain fighters, but never enough to make observers fully back him when the going might get tough.
Paul had his backers when he takes on the likes of Mike Tyson, age 58 at the time, and a man who had been inactive for the best part of 20 years. Now with Chavez Jr, a former middleweight ruler now intent on doing as little as possible in the ring, will those supporting his chances of victory at this echelon of the sport consider him a threat against any current ranked contender? Ask plenty in the know and they will tell you that numerous former world champions, inactive for many years, would be too smart and experienced for Paul. Numerous spats with Carl Froch and Tony Bellew have created speculation the retired Brits could one day be opposing Paul in the ring, and there would be many backing the previous world champions.
Take that forward a few spaces and assess the current world champions around the cruiserweight division Paul operates in. Who do you see who Paul could defeat, or even be competitive against?
Jai Opetaia? Zurdo Ramirez? Dmitry Bivol? Artur Beterbiev? A lengthy list of dangerous men sit comfortably in the positions Paul believes he is capable of filling, and they do not appear to be going anywhere just yet. What about the contenders a level below, who are more than capable of getting their hands on a world title anywhere between light-heavyweight and the land of boxing’s giants? Chris Billam-Smith? Anthony Yarde? Viddal Riley? Is this an area where Paul is targeting?
One that could realistically aid his world title hopes, or is his current strategy of targeting marketable greats from yesteryear enough to quench his fighting thirst?
If it is the former, then Paul must start proving that. Tyson, Anderson Silva, and Nate Diaz have all taken Paul the distance in recent bouts. If the popular Ohioan can end Chavez Jr’s hopes before the final bell, something Canelo Alvarez could not manage, then he will every right to dream bigger.
Paul will always have his doubters in boxing, the toughest of sports, but he also holds the power to convince them his aspirations are genuine and that must start this Saturday night.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: Results from Venezuela |
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This past Saturday, the state of Aragua, Venezuela played host to the ninth edition of the WBA Future of Venezuelan Boxing, held at the Centro Recreacional Yesterday, a venue rich in local boxing history. In the main event, 20-year-old Diego Carbajal (7-0, 4 KOs) kept his unbeaten record intact with an explosive finish, stopping fellow Venezuelan Danny Núñez (3-4-1) in the fifth round... Gleybert Maia (9-0, 3 KOs), just 21 years old, continues to evolve into a polished and technical fighter. He faced off against Yorman Sulbaran (2-3), an aggressive and scrappy opponent, but it was Maia’s discipline and ring generalship that stood out. As the rounds progressed, “Canelito” took control of the center of the ring and landed with growing accuracy and power, securing a unanimous decision victory... Pablo Emilio Molina Gamarro (4-2-2), age 25, was making his first appearance of the year and notched his third straight victory. His clash with Jorge Espinoza (2-2-1) was hard-fought and evenly matched, but in the end, the difference came down to the a two-point deduction Espinoza received for repeatedly spitting out his mouthguard, which tilted the judges’ scorecards in Molina’s favor.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: Results from Venezuela
This past Saturday, the state of Aragua, Venezuela played host to the ninth edition of the WBA Future of Venezuelan Boxing, held at the Centro Recreacional Yesterday, a venue rich in local boxing history. In the main event, 20-year-old Diego Carbajal (7-0, 4 KOs) kept his unbeaten record intact with an explosive finish, stopping fellow Venezuelan Danny Núñez (3-4-1) in the fifth round... Gleybert Maia (9-0, 3 KOs), just 21 years old, continues to evolve into a polished and technical fighter. He faced off against Yorman Sulbaran (2-3), an aggressive and scrappy opponent, but it was Maia’s discipline and ring generalship that stood out. As the rounds progressed, “Canelito” took control of the center of the ring and landed with growing accuracy and power, securing a unanimous decision victory... Pablo Emilio Molina Gamarro (4-2-2), age 25, was making his first appearance of the year and notched his third straight victory. His clash with Jorge Espinoza (2-2-1) was hard-fought and evenly matched, but in the end, the difference came down to the a two-point deduction Espinoza received for repeatedly spitting out his mouthguard, which tilted the judges’ scorecards in Molina’s favor.
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Team USA Junior Olympics update |
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The USA Youth High Performance Team earned seven gold medals at the 53rd annual USA Boxing National Junior Olympics and Summer Festival in Las Vegas. Lauryn Elmore (female 65 kg), Joseph Awinongya (male 80 kg), Kayla Moore (80+ kg), and Nnajai Wright (90+ kg) each made their tournament debuts on Saturday and earned gold medals in the process. All four boxers dominated their lone bout of the event, as Elmore, Moore and Wright secured unanimous decision victories, while Awinongya earned an RSC [referee stops contest] in the second round. "With this fight, I was happy to get some ring rust [off] and get the work I needed before Brandenburg," Awinongya stated following his performance. "When it comes to the Brandenburg Cup, I know I will have quickness, those quick-twitch muscles. I saw that all of them performed today. I am glad I will be able to put that in my next fight in Brandenburg."
Also earning gold this afternoon was Salim Ellis-Bey (male, 60 kg), who secured a 3-2 split decision victory over Yahir Diaz Martinez. Bey represents the USA Youth High Performance Team as its captain and displayed dominance and leadership throughout the week in Las Vegas Rounding out Team USA's gold medals are two Hawaii natives, Lorenzo Patricio (male, 50 kg) and Alexis Tangaro (female, 54 kg), who both earned a dominant 5-0 unanimous decision win.
Earning two silver medals for the week were Landon Patricio (male 55 kg) and Jose Vasquez (male 70 kg). Both boxers had a successful tournament, as Vasquez earned three victories, while Patricio earned four of his own.
Team USA was represented by 10 members of its Youth High Performance Team, earning seven gold and two silver.
The Youth High Performance Team will now shift its focus to the Brandenburg Cup, which will take place in Germany from July 29th through August 3rd. The 14 team members will arrive at camp on July 6th, at the United States Olympic and Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
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Team USA Junior Olympics update
The USA Youth High Performance Team earned seven gold medals at the 53rd annual USA Boxing National Junior Olympics and Summer Festival in Las Vegas. Lauryn Elmore (female 65 kg), Joseph Awinongya (male 80 kg), Kayla Moore (80+ kg), and Nnajai Wright (90+ kg) each made their tournament debuts on Saturday and earned gold medals in the process. All four boxers dominated their lone bout of the event, as Elmore, Moore and Wright secured unanimous decision victories, while Awinongya earned an RSC [referee stops contest] in the second round. "With this fight, I was happy to get some ring rust [off] and get the work I needed before Brandenburg," Awinongya stated following his performance. "When it comes to the Brandenburg Cup, I know I will have quickness, those quick-twitch muscles. I saw that all of them performed today. I am glad I will be able to put that in my next fight in Brandenburg."
Also earning gold this afternoon was Salim Ellis-Bey (male, 60 kg), who secured a 3-2 split decision victory over Yahir Diaz Martinez. Bey represents the USA Youth High Performance Team as its captain and displayed dominance and leadership throughout the week in Las Vegas Rounding out Team USA's gold medals are two Hawaii natives, Lorenzo Patricio (male, 50 kg) and Alexis Tangaro (female, 54 kg), who both earned a dominant 5-0 unanimous decision win.
Earning two silver medals for the week were Landon Patricio (male 55 kg) and Jose Vasquez (male 70 kg). Both boxers had a successful tournament, as Vasquez earned three victories, while Patricio earned four of his own.
Team USA was represented by 10 members of its Youth High Performance Team, earning seven gold and two silver.
The Youth High Performance Team will now shift its focus to the Brandenburg Cup, which will take place in Germany from July 29th through August 3rd. The 14 team members will arrive at camp on July 6th, at the United States Olympic and Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
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Results from Massachusetts |
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Shea Willcox KO2 Kadhim Alkhazaali ... The two newest members of Granite Chin Promotions’ (GCP) roster, undefeated junior welterweight “Showtime” Shea Willcox and middleweight Rich Allen both turned in knockout wins for a sold-out crowd on Friday night at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts. Willcox, age 23, has successfully parlayed his rich amateur pedigree as a 2024 New England Golden Gloves champion, in which he was also named the “Most Outstanding Boxer, in addition to capturing top honors at the 2018 Rocky Marciano Tournament Champion, into the pro ranks. His fan base continues to travel well to support him, which has rapidly made him arguably the most popular boxer in New England, based on ticket sales. At the site of his pro debut a year ago last September at the Bridgewater Vets Club, Willcox (3-0, 3 KOs) defeated Kadhim Alkhazaali (0-2). He did get Shea’s attention with a solid shot to the face in the opening round. He came out for the second round with a vengeance. A wicked body shot sent an obviously hurt Alkhazaali to the canvas late in round two and he was unable to continue fighting.
“The kid was tough, fighting as he came forward,” Willcox remarked. “We knew he was a step up as an opponent, but we were ready. He kind of woke me up with that punch in the opening round. We always put in the work and trained to be sharp and ready for anything in the fight.” Willcox will be on Granite Chin’s Aug. 10th show in Revere, which borders Shea’s hometown of Everett.
Rich Allen TKO2 Igor Santos.. Local favorite Rich Allen, a police resources officer at Silver Lake High School, returned to the same venue where he made his pro debut last September. The southpaw battered Igor Santos (0-10) to improve to 2-0, knocking down his opponent four times, three in the second and final round. Allen used every punch in his arsenal – straight left, uppercut, left hook, right jab and more – to completely dominate Santos.
UNDERCARD
In a walkout fight, Charlton (MA) cruiserweight Andreas Enetzelis (1-0, 1 KO) had a memorable pro debut, landing a perfectly placed straight right to the chin that knocked out Bruno Saraiva (0-7) midway through round one.
Irish middleweight Bernie McDonagh, now fighting out of Boston, moved to 2-0 with a dazzling performance against an overmatched Jay Gregory (0-14-1). The 17-year-old McDonagh came out the corner for the opening bell throwing bombs. The former Irish National Champion from Cork, Ireland, trapped his opponent in the corner, throwing 12 straight unanswered punches to close the show midway through the first round.
Former Massachusetts middleweight Champion Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi, now fighting as a cruiserweight, stopped Juan Celin Zapata (7-26-2) in the second round, registering two knockdowns in the process.
In a junior middleweight match between Massachusetts fighters, Justin “The Bandit” Laporte, fighting out of Millbury, dropped Boston’s David Rodrigues (0-5) in the opening round with a left hook and soon finished him off with a solid uppercut at the 2:18 mark. A U.S. Marine and 2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, Laporte improved to 3-0.
Rhode Island junior middleweight Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (5-12-4) decked veteran Daniel Sostre (13-29-3) in the opening round enroute to a 4-round unanimous decision to open the show.
Bridgewater TV taped the event live to air this coming week
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Results from Massachusetts
Shea Willcox KO2 Kadhim Alkhazaali ... The two newest members of Granite Chin Promotions’ (GCP) roster, undefeated junior welterweight “Showtime” Shea Willcox and middleweight Rich Allen both turned in knockout wins for a sold-out crowd on Friday night at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts. Willcox, age 23, has successfully parlayed his rich amateur pedigree as a 2024 New England Golden Gloves champion, in which he was also named the “Most Outstanding Boxer, in addition to capturing top honors at the 2018 Rocky Marciano Tournament Champion, into the pro ranks. His fan base continues to travel well to support him, which has rapidly made him arguably the most popular boxer in New England, based on ticket sales. At the site of his pro debut a year ago last September at the Bridgewater Vets Club, Willcox (3-0, 3 KOs) defeated Kadhim Alkhazaali (0-2). He did get Shea’s attention with a solid shot to the face in the opening round. He came out for the second round with a vengeance. A wicked body shot sent an obviously hurt Alkhazaali to the canvas late in round two and he was unable to continue fighting.
“The kid was tough, fighting as he came forward,” Willcox remarked. “We knew he was a step up as an opponent, but we were ready. He kind of woke me up with that punch in the opening round. We always put in the work and trained to be sharp and ready for anything in the fight.” Willcox will be on Granite Chin’s Aug. 10th show in Revere, which borders Shea’s hometown of Everett.
Rich Allen TKO2 Igor Santos.. Local favorite Rich Allen, a police resources officer at Silver Lake High School, returned to the same venue where he made his pro debut last September. The southpaw battered Igor Santos (0-10) to improve to 2-0, knocking down his opponent four times, three in the second and final round. Allen used every punch in his arsenal – straight left, uppercut, left hook, right jab and more – to completely dominate Santos.
UNDERCARD
In a walkout fight, Charlton (MA) cruiserweight Andreas Enetzelis (1-0, 1 KO) had a memorable pro debut, landing a perfectly placed straight right to the chin that knocked out Bruno Saraiva (0-7) midway through round one.
Irish middleweight Bernie McDonagh, now fighting out of Boston, moved to 2-0 with a dazzling performance against an overmatched Jay Gregory (0-14-1). The 17-year-old McDonagh came out the corner for the opening bell throwing bombs. The former Irish National Champion from Cork, Ireland, trapped his opponent in the corner, throwing 12 straight unanswered punches to close the show midway through the first round.
Former Massachusetts middleweight Champion Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi, now fighting as a cruiserweight, stopped Juan Celin Zapata (7-26-2) in the second round, registering two knockdowns in the process.
In a junior middleweight match between Massachusetts fighters, Justin “The Bandit” Laporte, fighting out of Millbury, dropped Boston’s David Rodrigues (0-5) in the opening round with a left hook and soon finished him off with a solid uppercut at the 2:18 mark. A U.S. Marine and 2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, Laporte improved to 3-0.
Rhode Island junior middleweight Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (5-12-4) decked veteran Daniel Sostre (13-29-3) in the opening round enroute to a 4-round unanimous decision to open the show.
Bridgewater TV taped the event live to air this coming week
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IBA dabbling in bare knuckle fights |
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The upcoming IBA Pro Champions’ Night on July 2nd in Istanbul will feature not only professional boxing bouts but also bare-knuckle fights under the IBA banner. One of the main fight card highlights will be a clash between Turkish fighter Murat Kazgan, known as “Lord Pitbull,” and American Will Chope, nicknamed “The Kill.” In bare-knuckle competition, Kazgan, age 39, holds one win and one loss, while Chope, age 34, has three wins and seven losses. In 2022, the American competed in a bare-knuckle bout in Moscow against Martin Juaryan. Both Chope and Kazgan have experience in the BKFC league, as well as extensive records in MMA. Notably, Chope fought Max Holloway at a UFC event in 2014. He has also competed under professional boxing rules, holding a record of four wins, three losses, and one draw. Despite his extensive martial arts experience and international appearances, Kazgan will perform in Türkiye for the very first time, offering a unique opportunity for the local crowd to witness his skills live.
In another bare knuckle fight on the card, Russia’s Mikhail Tarabrin will also compete in Istanbul, with his opponent to be announced shortly.
The main event in Istanbul will be a professional boxing match between 2021 Olympic champion Albert Batyrgaziev (12-0, 8 KOs) of Russia and James Dickens (35-5, 14 KOs) of Great Britain. Both the WBA interim and IBA Pro junior lightweight titles will be on the line in this twelve-round bout.
In the junior welterweight co-feature, Armenia’s Hovhannes Bachkova, a 2021 Olympic bronze medallist and renowned amateur boxer, will face Uzbekistan’s Shohjahon Ergashev (25-2, 22 KOs).
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IBA dabbling in bare knuckle fights
The upcoming IBA Pro Champions’ Night on July 2nd in Istanbul will feature not only professional boxing bouts but also bare-knuckle fights under the IBA banner. One of the main fight card highlights will be a clash between Turkish fighter Murat Kazgan, known as “Lord Pitbull,” and American Will Chope, nicknamed “The Kill.” In bare-knuckle competition, Kazgan, age 39, holds one win and one loss, while Chope, age 34, has three wins and seven losses. In 2022, the American competed in a bare-knuckle bout in Moscow against Martin Juaryan. Both Chope and Kazgan have experience in the BKFC league, as well as extensive records in MMA. Notably, Chope fought Max Holloway at a UFC event in 2014. He has also competed under professional boxing rules, holding a record of four wins, three losses, and one draw. Despite his extensive martial arts experience and international appearances, Kazgan will perform in Türkiye for the very first time, offering a unique opportunity for the local crowd to witness his skills live.
In another bare knuckle fight on the card, Russia’s Mikhail Tarabrin will also compete in Istanbul, with his opponent to be announced shortly.
The main event in Istanbul will be a professional boxing match between 2021 Olympic champion Albert Batyrgaziev (12-0, 8 KOs) of Russia and James Dickens (35-5, 14 KOs) of Great Britain. Both the WBA interim and IBA Pro junior lightweight titles will be on the line in this twelve-round bout.
In the junior welterweight co-feature, Armenia’s Hovhannes Bachkova, a 2021 Olympic bronze medallist and renowned amateur boxer, will face Uzbekistan’s Shohjahon Ergashev (25-2, 22 KOs).
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Crawford: "Canelo is my mega-fight" |
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As part of Riyadh Season, the Baker AlShidy Theatre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia hosted the first press conference for the highly anticipated clash between world super middleweight champion Canelo Álvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs) and multi-division champion Terence Crawford (41-0-0, 31 KOs). On September 13th in Las Vegas, the Mexican Alvarez will defend his undisputed 168-pound laurels against the American Crawford, who will move up two weight divisions. The fight card will be available on Netflix.
In a lavishly organized event, as is customary for fights held in the Middle East, Canelo and Crawford met face-to-face months before the big fight. “Canelo’s resume is brilliant. In the last 20 years, he has fought everyone. I don’t think Canelo will offer him the chance to win. It will be one of the best fights in the last 10 years,” commented Turki Al-Sheikh.
Both fighters are convinced that this will make boxing history. “I asked for Canelo because he’s a great fighter. He has fought [Miguel] Cotto, [Floyd] Mayweather, GGG [Gennady Golovkin]... all mega-fights. And this is my mega-fight, this is my moment, that’s why I asked to face Canelo,” commented Crawford.
“He’s one of the best boxers I’ll face in my career. I’m going to prepare for everything,” said Alvarez.
With his belts in front of him, Álvarez warned: “He’s not going to beat me. I believe this fight will be in the boxing history books. I hope he doesn’t run, because people deserve to see a good fight. I hope he puts on a good fight. I know my abilities and I am very confident in them.”
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Crawford: "Canelo is my mega-fight"
As part of Riyadh Season, the Baker AlShidy Theatre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia hosted the first press conference for the highly anticipated clash between world super middleweight champion Canelo Álvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs) and multi-division champion Terence Crawford (41-0-0, 31 KOs). On September 13th in Las Vegas, the Mexican Alvarez will defend his undisputed 168-pound laurels against the American Crawford, who will move up two weight divisions. The fight card will be available on Netflix.
In a lavishly organized event, as is customary for fights held in the Middle East, Canelo and Crawford met face-to-face months before the big fight. “Canelo’s resume is brilliant. In the last 20 years, he has fought everyone. I don’t think Canelo will offer him the chance to win. It will be one of the best fights in the last 10 years,” commented Turki Al-Sheikh.
Both fighters are convinced that this will make boxing history. “I asked for Canelo because he’s a great fighter. He has fought [Miguel] Cotto, [Floyd] Mayweather, GGG [Gennady Golovkin]... all mega-fights. And this is my mega-fight, this is my moment, that’s why I asked to face Canelo,” commented Crawford.
“He’s one of the best boxers I’ll face in my career. I’m going to prepare for everything,” said Alvarez.
With his belts in front of him, Álvarez warned: “He’s not going to beat me. I believe this fight will be in the boxing history books. I hope he doesn’t run, because people deserve to see a good fight. I hope he puts on a good fight. I know my abilities and I am very confident in them.”
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Mielnicki gets shutout win in New Jersey |
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Vito Mielnicki W10 Kamil Gardzielik ... Middleweight Vito Mielnicki Jr. returned to his home state for another night in the spotlight. The 23-year-old shut out Poland’s Kamil Gardzielik via ten-round unanimous decision (100-89 on all three cards) Saturday evening at Newark's Prudential Center. Mielnicki (21-1-1, 12 KOs) delivered a composed performance despite early success. In the second round, he floored Gardzielik (19-1, 4 KOs) with a right hand after the latter briefly switched to southpaw. Rather than chase the finish, Mielnicki boxed patiently behind a long jab, mixing in right hands with left uppercuts down the middle and hooks around the elbows. The right hand continued to play an important role down the stretch, though he was unable to hurt him as he had earlier.
Mielnicki said, “I was happy with my performance. This came from working on sticking to the game plan and not getting out of my game plan when I hurt somebody. I felt we did a good job with that. I wanted to use a hard, stiff jab. I felt that we did that really well. I welted up his face early. We set up that double right hand that we worked on in camp. I feel blessed. As a kid, I dreamed of fighting here in the main event.”
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Mielnicki gets shutout win in New Jersey
Vito Mielnicki W10 Kamil Gardzielik ... Middleweight Vito Mielnicki Jr. returned to his home state for another night in the spotlight. The 23-year-old shut out Poland’s Kamil Gardzielik via ten-round unanimous decision (100-89 on all three cards) Saturday evening at Newark's Prudential Center. Mielnicki (21-1-1, 12 KOs) delivered a composed performance despite early success. In the second round, he floored Gardzielik (19-1, 4 KOs) with a right hand after the latter briefly switched to southpaw. Rather than chase the finish, Mielnicki boxed patiently behind a long jab, mixing in right hands with left uppercuts down the middle and hooks around the elbows. The right hand continued to play an important role down the stretch, though he was unable to hurt him as he had earlier.
Mielnicki said, “I was happy with my performance. This came from working on sticking to the game plan and not getting out of my game plan when I hurt somebody. I felt we did a good job with that. I wanted to use a hard, stiff jab. I felt that we did that really well. I welted up his face early. We set up that double right hand that we worked on in camp. I feel blessed. As a kid, I dreamed of fighting here in the main event.”
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Rodriguez defeats Yafai to become latest Mexican to win in England |
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Francisco Rodríguez W12 Galal Yafai ... In another example of the recent trend of Mexicans going to England to defeat Matchroom-promoted boxers, Francisco “Chihuas” Rodríguez (40-6-1) put on a great fight in Birmingham and defeated Galal Yafai by unanimous decision. Rodrgiguez is now the WBC interim flyweight champion. Rodriguez was looking for the knockout from the first round, but the British fighter managed to hold on to avoid the loss. Both fighters received cuts over their left eyes due to the constant exchanges of punches and accidental head clashes. Rodríguez punished the British fighter with even greater intensity from the ninth round onwards, sending him to the canvas at the start of the twelfth. After the referee’s count, Yafai’s punishment continued until the final bell rang to end the fight. The judges’ scores were 119-108 (twice) and 118-109, all in favor of the Mexican fighter. Boxingtalk recogizes Yafai's pro record as 16-4 including the World Series of Boxing.
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Rodriguez defeats Yafai to become latest Mexican to win in England
Francisco Rodríguez W12 Galal Yafai ... In another example of the recent trend of Mexicans going to England to defeat Matchroom-promoted boxers, Francisco “Chihuas” Rodríguez (40-6-1) put on a great fight in Birmingham and defeated Galal Yafai by unanimous decision. Rodrgiguez is now the WBC interim flyweight champion. Rodriguez was looking for the knockout from the first round, but the British fighter managed to hold on to avoid the loss. Both fighters received cuts over their left eyes due to the constant exchanges of punches and accidental head clashes. Rodríguez punished the British fighter with even greater intensity from the ninth round onwards, sending him to the canvas at the start of the twelfth. After the referee’s count, Yafai’s punishment continued until the final bell rang to end the fight. The judges’ scores were 119-108 (twice) and 118-109, all in favor of the Mexican fighter. Boxingtalk recogizes Yafai's pro record as 16-4 including the World Series of Boxing.
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Knyba prevails in battle of Polish heavyweights |
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Damian Knyba TKO8 Marcin Siwy... Heavyweight Damian Knyba (16-0, 10 KOs) scored an eighth-round stoppage over Marcin Siwy (25-1-1, 12 KOs) in an all-Polish showdown held in Newark, New Jersey. Knyba, who stands six-foot-seven, enjoyed a six-inch height advantage. He used an extended lead hand to keep Siwy at range while the shorter man lunged forward headfirst, looking to work on the inside. The early rounds were filled with clinches, but Knyba found his rhythm in the fifth and sixth, digging to the body and landing around the guard. By the seventh and eighth, he easily landed the right on a bloodied Siwy, who offered less and less in return. Siwy made it back to his corner after the eighth but was ruled unable to continue.
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Knyba prevails in battle of Polish heavyweights
Damian Knyba TKO8 Marcin Siwy... Heavyweight Damian Knyba (16-0, 10 KOs) scored an eighth-round stoppage over Marcin Siwy (25-1-1, 12 KOs) in an all-Polish showdown held in Newark, New Jersey. Knyba, who stands six-foot-seven, enjoyed a six-inch height advantage. He used an extended lead hand to keep Siwy at range while the shorter man lunged forward headfirst, looking to work on the inside. The early rounds were filled with clinches, but Knyba found his rhythm in the fifth and sixth, digging to the body and landing around the guard. By the seventh and eighth, he easily landed the right on a bloodied Siwy, who offered less and less in return. Siwy made it back to his corner after the eighth but was ruled unable to continue.
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WBC Grand Prix results (heavyweight and featherweight) |
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The second stage of the WBC Boxing Grand Prix tournament, a vision of late WBC president José Sulaimán, with the support of Riyadh Season and Turki Alalshikh is now in the books. The four-division tournament saw fights take place in the heavyweight and featherweight divisions. These are the results:
HEAVYWEIGHT: In the first fight of the biggest division, Dante Stone (USA) 19-0-1 (17 KOs) defeated Emiliano Mendoza (Argentina) 5-1-1 (1 KO) by decision...
Keaton Gomes (South Africa) 12-3 (10 KOs) scored a spectacular victory by knocking out Alija Mesic (Bosnia and Herzegovina) 2-1 (2 KOs) in the fourth round...
Devon Young (USA) 9-0 (7 KOs) defeated Jonathan Vergara (Argentina) 9-1-1 (4 KOs) with a wide-open victory...
In a real train crash, Kevin Ramírez (Argentina) 10-0-1 (4 KOs) defeated Reagan Apanu (Congo) 3-1 (1 KO) by decision...
Piotr Lacz (Poland) 14-0 (10 KOs) knocked out Marko Milun (Croatia) 1-1 (0) in the first round...
In an interesting fight between former Olympians, Lazizbek Mullojonov (Uzbekistan) 7-0 (6 KOs) secured the victory by dominating Youness Baalla (Morocco) 2-1-1 (2 KOs)...
In what looked like a fight that would end in a decision, Ahmed Krnjic (Boznia & Herzegovina) 5-0 (4 KOs) defeated Davide Brito (Italy) 7-2 (3 KOs) by TKO and...
In the final duel of the day, Tsotne Rogava (Ukraine) 12-0 (8 KOs) defeated Vitaliy Stalchenko (Ukraine) 10-1 (6) by unanimous decision.
FEATHERWEIGHT
Bekizizwe Innocent Maitse (South Africa) 8-1 (3 KOs) defeated Juma Ramadhani Choki (Tanzania) 10-1-1 (3 KOs) in a very technical fight where both boxers showed high-level skill...
In the second duel of the day, Ayubkhon Bakhtiyorov (Uzbekistan) 8-0 (5 KOs) was I the midst of a fierce fight with Jhon Sebastian Bolaño Mendoza (Colombia) 9-1 (8 KOs). Bakhtiyorov did better to take the victory by decision.
Muhamet Qamili (Italy) 16-0 (7 KOs) defeated Holy Dorgbetor (Ghana) 14-1-1 (8 KOs) in an intense fight, with a high volume of punches, a cut, and a lot of intelligence.
Yoni Valverde (France) 15-0 (3 KOs) faced Oleksandr Solomennikov (Ukraine) 16-2 (8 KOs). The latter made his appearance as a substitute for Tyshawn Denson of the United States, who had an allergy and was unable to compete. The fight was fairly even and competitive, but the Frenchman earned a well-deserved victory by demonstrating his superior qualities in the ring.
Yusuf Adisa Adeniji (Nigeria) 16-0 (10 KOs) defeated Alexandr Kovrigin (Kazakhstan) 8-2 (6 KOs) by majority decision.
Troy Nash (USA) 5-0 (1 KO) defeated Zholdas Zhengissov (Kazakhstan) 9-1 (4 KOs) in a fight that the American dominated based on his defense and punching accuracy.
In one of the best fights of the day due to the number of punches and intensity, Brandon Mejia Mosqueda (Mexico) 10-0 (9 KOs) defeated Gulraj Singh Powar (United Kingdom) 12-1 (1 KO) and... .
Iman Joshua Lee (USA) 14-0 (8 KOs) secured the last ticket to the next round of the tournament by defeating the tough Héctor Alejandro Munguía (Mexico) 15-1-1 (9 KOs).
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WBC Grand Prix results (heavyweight and featherweight)
The second stage of the WBC Boxing Grand Prix tournament, a vision of late WBC president José Sulaimán, with the support of Riyadh Season and Turki Alalshikh is now in the books. The four-division tournament saw fights take place in the heavyweight and featherweight divisions. These are the results:
HEAVYWEIGHT: In the first fight of the biggest division, Dante Stone (USA) 19-0-1 (17 KOs) defeated Emiliano Mendoza (Argentina) 5-1-1 (1 KO) by decision...
Keaton Gomes (South Africa) 12-3 (10 KOs) scored a spectacular victory by knocking out Alija Mesic (Bosnia and Herzegovina) 2-1 (2 KOs) in the fourth round...
Devon Young (USA) 9-0 (7 KOs) defeated Jonathan Vergara (Argentina) 9-1-1 (4 KOs) with a wide-open victory...
In a real train crash, Kevin Ramírez (Argentina) 10-0-1 (4 KOs) defeated Reagan Apanu (Congo) 3-1 (1 KO) by decision...
Piotr Lacz (Poland) 14-0 (10 KOs) knocked out Marko Milun (Croatia) 1-1 (0) in the first round...
In an interesting fight between former Olympians, Lazizbek Mullojonov (Uzbekistan) 7-0 (6 KOs) secured the victory by dominating Youness Baalla (Morocco) 2-1-1 (2 KOs)...
In what looked like a fight that would end in a decision, Ahmed Krnjic (Boznia & Herzegovina) 5-0 (4 KOs) defeated Davide Brito (Italy) 7-2 (3 KOs) by TKO and...
In the final duel of the day, Tsotne Rogava (Ukraine) 12-0 (8 KOs) defeated Vitaliy Stalchenko (Ukraine) 10-1 (6) by unanimous decision.
FEATHERWEIGHT
Bekizizwe Innocent Maitse (South Africa) 8-1 (3 KOs) defeated Juma Ramadhani Choki (Tanzania) 10-1-1 (3 KOs) in a very technical fight where both boxers showed high-level skill...
In the second duel of the day, Ayubkhon Bakhtiyorov (Uzbekistan) 8-0 (5 KOs) was I the midst of a fierce fight with Jhon Sebastian Bolaño Mendoza (Colombia) 9-1 (8 KOs). Bakhtiyorov did better to take the victory by decision.
Muhamet Qamili (Italy) 16-0 (7 KOs) defeated Holy Dorgbetor (Ghana) 14-1-1 (8 KOs) in an intense fight, with a high volume of punches, a cut, and a lot of intelligence.
Yoni Valverde (France) 15-0 (3 KOs) faced Oleksandr Solomennikov (Ukraine) 16-2 (8 KOs). The latter made his appearance as a substitute for Tyshawn Denson of the United States, who had an allergy and was unable to compete. The fight was fairly even and competitive, but the Frenchman earned a well-deserved victory by demonstrating his superior qualities in the ring.
Yusuf Adisa Adeniji (Nigeria) 16-0 (10 KOs) defeated Alexandr Kovrigin (Kazakhstan) 8-2 (6 KOs) by majority decision.
Troy Nash (USA) 5-0 (1 KO) defeated Zholdas Zhengissov (Kazakhstan) 9-1 (4 KOs) in a fight that the American dominated based on his defense and punching accuracy.
In one of the best fights of the day due to the number of punches and intensity, Brandon Mejia Mosqueda (Mexico) 10-0 (9 KOs) defeated Gulraj Singh Powar (United Kingdom) 12-1 (1 KO) and... .
Iman Joshua Lee (USA) 14-0 (8 KOs) secured the last ticket to the next round of the tournament by defeating the tough Héctor Alejandro Munguía (Mexico) 15-1-1 (9 KOs).
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Undercard results from NJ: Tucker defeats Simpson |
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Jahi Tucker W10 Lorenzo Simpson ... In Newark, New Jersey, Jahi Tucker (15-1-1, 6 KOs) settled his beef with Lorenzo Simpson (15-3, 9 KOs) with a ten-round points victory after weeks of online back-and-forth. The judges scored it 96-94 and 97-93 (twice) in Simpson's favor. The bad blood carried into the ring, as both wasted no time trading at close range. Simpson succeeded with left uppercuts to the body and straight lefts to the head, but Tucker landed more consistent power shots. In rounds four and five, Tucker turned up the pressure, walking Simpson down and unloading combinations while ignoring return fire that connected often. By the sixth and seventh, Tucker changed tactics, boxing from the outside and connecting with right hands and left uppercuts before moving again. He continued switching styles down the stretch, outpointing a game Simpson in the exchanges.
Tucker said afterwards, “The difference was that I really wanted it more. He’s a hell of a fighter, but it was crunch time for me. You know how it is. There was no real bad blood. We’re just two solid competitors. We’re two guys trying to feed our families. Of course, when you want that spot, you come to fight. He came to fight, so I had to dig deep.”
UNDERCARD RESULTS
Junior welterweight Brandun Lee (30-0, 23 KOs) won an eight-round unanimous decision over Elias Araujo (22-6, 9 KOs). All three scores were 80-72...
Junior middleweight Dwyke Flemmings Jr. (11-0, 10 KOs) needed just over two minutes to stop Demian Fernandez (15-7, 5 KOs)...
In the junior featherweight division, Lisandra Contreras (1-0) won a unanimous decision over Montana Weems (1-1, 1 KO). The four-round bout was scored 40-35 across the board.
Heavyweight Norman Neely (16-1, 11 KOs) stopped James Willis (6-2-1, 5 KOs) in the first round...
Welterweight Muadh Abdus-Salaam (1-0) won four-round majority decision over Roberto Cantos (1-4). The official scores were 38-38, 39-37 and 40-36.
Junior middleweight: Kahshad Elliot (5-0, 4 KOs) won a four-roud unanimous decision over Titus Ashe (1-1, 1 KO), via scores of 38-35 and 38-36 (twice).
Heavyweight Jamar Talley (3-0, 3 KOs) stopped Kurt Fleming (3-1, 2 KOs) in the second round and...
Light heavyweight Arjan Iseni (4-0, 4 KOs) stopped Kaine Tomlinson Jr. (1-1, 1 KO), also in round two.
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Undercard results from NJ: Tucker defeats Simpson
Jahi Tucker W10 Lorenzo Simpson ... In Newark, New Jersey, Jahi Tucker (15-1-1, 6 KOs) settled his beef with Lorenzo Simpson (15-3, 9 KOs) with a ten-round points victory after weeks of online back-and-forth. The judges scored it 96-94 and 97-93 (twice) in Simpson's favor. The bad blood carried into the ring, as both wasted no time trading at close range. Simpson succeeded with left uppercuts to the body and straight lefts to the head, but Tucker landed more consistent power shots. In rounds four and five, Tucker turned up the pressure, walking Simpson down and unloading combinations while ignoring return fire that connected often. By the sixth and seventh, Tucker changed tactics, boxing from the outside and connecting with right hands and left uppercuts before moving again. He continued switching styles down the stretch, outpointing a game Simpson in the exchanges.
Tucker said afterwards, “The difference was that I really wanted it more. He’s a hell of a fighter, but it was crunch time for me. You know how it is. There was no real bad blood. We’re just two solid competitors. We’re two guys trying to feed our families. Of course, when you want that spot, you come to fight. He came to fight, so I had to dig deep.”
UNDERCARD RESULTS
Junior welterweight Brandun Lee (30-0, 23 KOs) won an eight-round unanimous decision over Elias Araujo (22-6, 9 KOs). All three scores were 80-72...
Junior middleweight Dwyke Flemmings Jr. (11-0, 10 KOs) needed just over two minutes to stop Demian Fernandez (15-7, 5 KOs)...
In the junior featherweight division, Lisandra Contreras (1-0) won a unanimous decision over Montana Weems (1-1, 1 KO). The four-round bout was scored 40-35 across the board.
Heavyweight Norman Neely (16-1, 11 KOs) stopped James Willis (6-2-1, 5 KOs) in the first round...
Welterweight Muadh Abdus-Salaam (1-0) won four-round majority decision over Roberto Cantos (1-4). The official scores were 38-38, 39-37 and 40-36.
Junior middleweight: Kahshad Elliot (5-0, 4 KOs) won a four-roud unanimous decision over Titus Ashe (1-1, 1 KO), via scores of 38-35 and 38-36 (twice).
Heavyweight Jamar Talley (3-0, 3 KOs) stopped Kurt Fleming (3-1, 2 KOs) in the second round and...
Light heavyweight Arjan Iseni (4-0, 4 KOs) stopped Kaine Tomlinson Jr. (1-1, 1 KO), also in round two.
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WBC Grand Prix results (junior welterweight and middleweight) |
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The WBC Boxing Grand Prix tournament, a vision of the late WBC president José Sulaimán, with the support of Riyadh Season and Turki Alalshikh, returned with its second round of fights from the Global Theater in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, streaming live on DAZN. The action featured bouts in the middleweight and junior welterweight divisions. The 16 remaining fighters in each division displayed tremendous heart and determination in a tournament that has gained significant global relevance plus attention. Here are the results from this incredible day:
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT: Ntethelelo Nkosi (South Africa) 9-2 (5) defeated Wu Ju (China) 15-2-2 (5) by decision in an entertaining bout... Danylo Lozan (Ukraine) 14-0 (9) defeated Eric Basran (Canada) 8-1 (3) by technical knockout, in a fight where the Ukrainian’s power was decisive... Mujibillo Tursunov (Kazakhstan) 6-0 (2) defeated Alan Dutra (Argentina) 15-1 (9) in a very close contest. Although the Argentine fighter showed great heart, the Kazakh’s amateur experience was evident in the fight.... Fiorenzo Priolo (Italy) 13-0 (9) defeated Efe Konuk (Turkey) 3-1 (2) by decision. The early rounds were closely contested, but the Italian fighter gained control to convince the judges of his victory.... In one of the best fights of the day, Carlos Utria (Colombia) 11-0 (10) defeated Alan David Crenz (Argentina) 15-2 (14) by decision. The bout was very entertaining, with the Argentine throwing a higher volume of punches, but without a doubt, the Colombian fighter’s power was key to his win... Sanatali Toltayev (Kazakhstan) 4-0 (2) defeated Jerald Into (Philippines) 12-1 (9). Both boxers showed and used their extensive amateur experience, utilizing strategy and pace control. A duel that delivered many emotions.... Spencer Wilcox (Canada) 12-0 (5) defeated Bartlomiej Przbyla (Poland) 9-2 (3) by decision. The Canadian fighter displayed better technique, and although the Pole successfully counter-punched at times, it wasn’t enough to secure the victory and... Misael Cabrera Urias (Mexico) 17-2-1 (11) defeated Orlando Barajas Tirado (Mexico) 7-1 (2) in a great battle between Mexican warriors.
MIDDLEWEIGHT: Carlos Sinisterra Palacios (Colombia) 12-1 (9) defeated Hajji Muhis (Finland) 7-1-2 (1) by decision, in a fight where the quantity and quality of punches from the Colombian made the difference... Lancelot de la Chappelle (France) 17-1-1 (4) claimed victory, defeating Isaac Torres Busnegos (Colombia) 15-1 (15) by technical knockout in the fourth round... Derek Pomerleau (Canada) 13-0 (10) defeated Paul Ryan (Ireland) 8-2 (3) by technical knockout in a bout he started losing and even visited the canvas. He unexpectedly recovered to hurt his opponent and secure the win... Ephrem Bariko (France) 12-0 (6) defeated the brave Maksym Molodan (Ukraine) by decision. Although the fight was very close, the Frenchman got the better of it with more successful combinations... Petro Frolov (Ukraine) 12-1 (4) defeated Saulo Morales (Mexico) 15-2-1 (4) by decision in a very entertaining bout... Dylan Biggs (Australia) 15-1 (9) took the win against Ciril Johnson (France) 10-1 (3)... Emiliano Aguillon Castro (Mexico) 13-0-1 (7) defeated José Ramón Montes (Mexico) 12-1 (5) and... Dmytro Rybalko (Ukraine) 5-0-1 (2) earned the victory, defeating Mohammad Issa (Jordan) 10-1- (9).
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WBC Grand Prix results (junior welterweight and middleweight)
The WBC Boxing Grand Prix tournament, a vision of the late WBC president José Sulaimán, with the support of Riyadh Season and Turki Alalshikh, returned with its second round of fights from the Global Theater in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, streaming live on DAZN. The action featured bouts in the middleweight and junior welterweight divisions. The 16 remaining fighters in each division displayed tremendous heart and determination in a tournament that has gained significant global relevance plus attention. Here are the results from this incredible day:
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT: Ntethelelo Nkosi (South Africa) 9-2 (5) defeated Wu Ju (China) 15-2-2 (5) by decision in an entertaining bout... Danylo Lozan (Ukraine) 14-0 (9) defeated Eric Basran (Canada) 8-1 (3) by technical knockout, in a fight where the Ukrainian’s power was decisive... Mujibillo Tursunov (Kazakhstan) 6-0 (2) defeated Alan Dutra (Argentina) 15-1 (9) in a very close contest. Although the Argentine fighter showed great heart, the Kazakh’s amateur experience was evident in the fight.... Fiorenzo Priolo (Italy) 13-0 (9) defeated Efe Konuk (Turkey) 3-1 (2) by decision. The early rounds were closely contested, but the Italian fighter gained control to convince the judges of his victory.... In one of the best fights of the day, Carlos Utria (Colombia) 11-0 (10) defeated Alan David Crenz (Argentina) 15-2 (14) by decision. The bout was very entertaining, with the Argentine throwing a higher volume of punches, but without a doubt, the Colombian fighter’s power was key to his win... Sanatali Toltayev (Kazakhstan) 4-0 (2) defeated Jerald Into (Philippines) 12-1 (9). Both boxers showed and used their extensive amateur experience, utilizing strategy and pace control. A duel that delivered many emotions.... Spencer Wilcox (Canada) 12-0 (5) defeated Bartlomiej Przbyla (Poland) 9-2 (3) by decision. The Canadian fighter displayed better technique, and although the Pole successfully counter-punched at times, it wasn’t enough to secure the victory and... Misael Cabrera Urias (Mexico) 17-2-1 (11) defeated Orlando Barajas Tirado (Mexico) 7-1 (2) in a great battle between Mexican warriors.
MIDDLEWEIGHT: Carlos Sinisterra Palacios (Colombia) 12-1 (9) defeated Hajji Muhis (Finland) 7-1-2 (1) by decision, in a fight where the quantity and quality of punches from the Colombian made the difference... Lancelot de la Chappelle (France) 17-1-1 (4) claimed victory, defeating Isaac Torres Busnegos (Colombia) 15-1 (15) by technical knockout in the fourth round... Derek Pomerleau (Canada) 13-0 (10) defeated Paul Ryan (Ireland) 8-2 (3) by technical knockout in a bout he started losing and even visited the canvas. He unexpectedly recovered to hurt his opponent and secure the win... Ephrem Bariko (France) 12-0 (6) defeated the brave Maksym Molodan (Ukraine) by decision. Although the fight was very close, the Frenchman got the better of it with more successful combinations... Petro Frolov (Ukraine) 12-1 (4) defeated Saulo Morales (Mexico) 15-2-1 (4) by decision in a very entertaining bout... Dylan Biggs (Australia) 15-1 (9) took the win against Ciril Johnson (France) 10-1 (3)... Emiliano Aguillon Castro (Mexico) 13-0-1 (7) defeated José Ramón Montes (Mexico) 12-1 (5) and... Dmytro Rybalko (Ukraine) 5-0-1 (2) earned the victory, defeating Mohammad Issa (Jordan) 10-1- (9).
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Dynamite Stevens gets big win over Russian Olympian |
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David Stevens W10 Petr Khamukov... Reading, Pennsylvania's David “Dynamite” Stevens (15-2, 10 KOs) got past a determined challenge from Russian Olympian Petr “The Surgeon” Khamukov (13-1, 6 KOs) with a ten-round unanimous decision in the super middleweight main event of the DAZN-televised ‘LA Friday Night Fights 2’ event on Friday night from Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California. Presented by Paco Presents, Golden Boy Promotions and Robert Garcia’ House of Champions, “LA Friday Night Fights 2” saw Stevens do more to sway the judges’ in an often-frustrating battle between contrasting styles of fighting. In the end, Stevens’ eye-catching work won the favor of the judges by identical 97-93 scores across the board.
After a quiet first two rounds, the pair began to figure out and time each other in the third, which led to several strong exchanges with Khamukov seemingly getting the better and even briefly stinging Stevens with a left. Stevens returned to have a good round four by picking up his pace and throwing more punches.
The fight then fell into a pattern with a tired-looking Khamukov showing more willingness to mix things up by jumping in and out with short, quick combinations, while the patient Stevens carefully chose his spots to land less frequent, but harder and more noticeable return shots.
“I have to rewatch the tape. I know I made some mistakes and got a little tired in there, but I feel good,” said Stevens. “I don’t feel like I got too tired, but I have to sharpen up on some things. The fight is won in the gym. I have Ronnie Shields training me, he couldn’t be here, so I’ been working with my assistant trainer, Travia Pierce and we’ve been working on the same stuff we did here. I didn’t do it all, but most of it.”
ADDITONAL RESULTS
In the night’s eight-round co-feature, junior middleweight Leonardo “Leo” Ruiz (16-1, 8 KOs) of San Bernardino won a wide unanimous decision over Jarrod Tennant (9-5, 4 KOs) of Los Angeles. Returning for the first time since his first career loss, a first-round knockout to Elias Mauricio Haedo last December, Ruiz showed no signs of lasting damage by patiently dismantling Tenant’s fighting style in the first half of the fight and then spending the back half battering him around the ring to little resistance. An expert survivor, the smaller Tennant was never wobbled but also showed no ability to win even a minute of the fight. The scores were academic at 80-72 )twice) and 79-73. “I feel good,” said Ruiz after the fight. “He’s a solid opponent and I take my hat off to him. We went to a decision, and it felt good to come back. I hit my groove in round there. I don’t know what judge gave him a round, maybe the first because I took my time. It is what it is. I’m my hardest critic and I always want to win every round.”
Buena Park, California junior welterweight Juan “El Negro” Sanchez (9-0, 8 KOs) passed a test against better competition with flying colors, as he dominated experienced Colombian veteran Yeis “El Tigre” Solano (15-6, 10 KOs), dropping him four times before scoring a third-round knockout. Sanchez dropped Solano for a count with a roundhouse right with 40 seconds left in round one but ran out of time while attempting to finish. Solano was down again in round two from a mix of a body shot and tangled feet. Solano fell twice more in round three before Referee Ray Corona indicated he’d seen enough at 2:50 of the round. Sanchez showed his heavy hands throughout, battering Solano non-stop while his opponent elected to cover up and try to throw the occasional loaded up counter punch. Sanchez suffered a cut on his right eye from an accidental clash of heads shortly before the KO. “I was just doing what my coach told me to do in camp,” said a happy Sanchez, post-fight. “We came here to get our work. It feels great. Maybe it was destiny because every time since my last fight, I kept mistakenly saying I’m 9-0 with 8 knockouts. Maybe I predicted it.”
In a six-round junior welterweight war between non-stop punching machines, Los Angeles slugger Dorian Mendez (6-0, 2 KOs) stayed unbeaten with a toe-to-toe classic against Jurupa Valley, California via Mexico’s Leonardo Rubalcava (9-1-1, 3 KOs). With the crowd on their feet throughout, the two warriors fought in a phone booth and neither man ever stopped swinging. Late in round four, Mendez appeared to briefly stun Rubalcava with a surprise right hand fighting off the ropes. To his credit, Rubalcava worked well to the body and appeared to be landing the harder punches. In a tough fight to judge that neither fighter deserved to lose, the scores were 59-55 Mendez, 59-55 Rubalcava and a deciding card of 59-55 Mendez.
In a four-round super bantamweight scrap, Alexis Alvarado (8-1, 5 KOs) La Puente, California, won an impressive four-round unanimous decision over the “tougher than a $2 steak” southpaw Jose Silva Gonzalez (5-1-1, 4 KOs) of Sparks, Nevada. After a pair of closely fought opening rounds, won by Alvarado with his smothering activity rate, Alvarado dropped Silva on the seat of his trunks late in round three with a seismic right hand. The resilient Silva somehow managed to survive the bell. It didn’t get any better for Silva in the last round, as he spent much of the three minutes taking heavy punishment under the watchful eye of Referee Ray Corona. The scores were 40-35, 40-35 and 39-36.
In a four-round battle between two 18-year-old super bantamweights Emiliano Alvarado (8-0, 5 KOs) Los Angeles won a hard-fought unanimous decision over Alejandro Mejia (2-2) of Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico. Making his US fighting debut, Alvarado hurt Mejia briefly with a left hook in an action-packed first round and again in a more dominant round two. Mejia staged an impressive comeback in round three, pushing Alvarado around the ring with relentless combinations. Unfortunately, Referee Jerry Cantu found a way to insert himself into the action in a close-fought round four by abruptly penalizing the out-of-town fighter Mejia for a low blow without sufficient previous warnings, with seconds to go in the fight. The scores were 39-36 (twice) and 38-37.
Opening up the broadcast action, San Bernardino junior welterweight Daniel Cruz (10-0, 3 KOs) stayed undefeated by scoring a spirited six-round unanimous decision over Delhi, India’s Sachin Rohila (8-4, 2 KOs). The two prospects tore into each other from the start, with Cruz outworking his tough Indian opponent. Both fighters had their moments, but Cruz’s activity rate made the difference in most rounds. The scores were 60-54 and 59-55 (twice).
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Dynamite Stevens gets big win over Russian Olympian
David Stevens W10 Petr Khamukov... Reading, Pennsylvania's David “Dynamite” Stevens (15-2, 10 KOs) got past a determined challenge from Russian Olympian Petr “The Surgeon” Khamukov (13-1, 6 KOs) with a ten-round unanimous decision in the super middleweight main event of the DAZN-televised ‘LA Friday Night Fights 2’ event on Friday night from Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California. Presented by Paco Presents, Golden Boy Promotions and Robert Garcia’ House of Champions, “LA Friday Night Fights 2” saw Stevens do more to sway the judges’ in an often-frustrating battle between contrasting styles of fighting. In the end, Stevens’ eye-catching work won the favor of the judges by identical 97-93 scores across the board.
After a quiet first two rounds, the pair began to figure out and time each other in the third, which led to several strong exchanges with Khamukov seemingly getting the better and even briefly stinging Stevens with a left. Stevens returned to have a good round four by picking up his pace and throwing more punches.
The fight then fell into a pattern with a tired-looking Khamukov showing more willingness to mix things up by jumping in and out with short, quick combinations, while the patient Stevens carefully chose his spots to land less frequent, but harder and more noticeable return shots.
“I have to rewatch the tape. I know I made some mistakes and got a little tired in there, but I feel good,” said Stevens. “I don’t feel like I got too tired, but I have to sharpen up on some things. The fight is won in the gym. I have Ronnie Shields training me, he couldn’t be here, so I’ been working with my assistant trainer, Travia Pierce and we’ve been working on the same stuff we did here. I didn’t do it all, but most of it.”
ADDITONAL RESULTS
In the night’s eight-round co-feature, junior middleweight Leonardo “Leo” Ruiz (16-1, 8 KOs) of San Bernardino won a wide unanimous decision over Jarrod Tennant (9-5, 4 KOs) of Los Angeles. Returning for the first time since his first career loss, a first-round knockout to Elias Mauricio Haedo last December, Ruiz showed no signs of lasting damage by patiently dismantling Tenant’s fighting style in the first half of the fight and then spending the back half battering him around the ring to little resistance. An expert survivor, the smaller Tennant was never wobbled but also showed no ability to win even a minute of the fight. The scores were academic at 80-72 )twice) and 79-73. “I feel good,” said Ruiz after the fight. “He’s a solid opponent and I take my hat off to him. We went to a decision, and it felt good to come back. I hit my groove in round there. I don’t know what judge gave him a round, maybe the first because I took my time. It is what it is. I’m my hardest critic and I always want to win every round.”
Buena Park, California junior welterweight Juan “El Negro” Sanchez (9-0, 8 KOs) passed a test against better competition with flying colors, as he dominated experienced Colombian veteran Yeis “El Tigre” Solano (15-6, 10 KOs), dropping him four times before scoring a third-round knockout. Sanchez dropped Solano for a count with a roundhouse right with 40 seconds left in round one but ran out of time while attempting to finish. Solano was down again in round two from a mix of a body shot and tangled feet. Solano fell twice more in round three before Referee Ray Corona indicated he’d seen enough at 2:50 of the round. Sanchez showed his heavy hands throughout, battering Solano non-stop while his opponent elected to cover up and try to throw the occasional loaded up counter punch. Sanchez suffered a cut on his right eye from an accidental clash of heads shortly before the KO. “I was just doing what my coach told me to do in camp,” said a happy Sanchez, post-fight. “We came here to get our work. It feels great. Maybe it was destiny because every time since my last fight, I kept mistakenly saying I’m 9-0 with 8 knockouts. Maybe I predicted it.”
In a six-round junior welterweight war between non-stop punching machines, Los Angeles slugger Dorian Mendez (6-0, 2 KOs) stayed unbeaten with a toe-to-toe classic against Jurupa Valley, California via Mexico’s Leonardo Rubalcava (9-1-1, 3 KOs). With the crowd on their feet throughout, the two warriors fought in a phone booth and neither man ever stopped swinging. Late in round four, Mendez appeared to briefly stun Rubalcava with a surprise right hand fighting off the ropes. To his credit, Rubalcava worked well to the body and appeared to be landing the harder punches. In a tough fight to judge that neither fighter deserved to lose, the scores were 59-55 Mendez, 59-55 Rubalcava and a deciding card of 59-55 Mendez.
In a four-round super bantamweight scrap, Alexis Alvarado (8-1, 5 KOs) La Puente, California, won an impressive four-round unanimous decision over the “tougher than a $2 steak” southpaw Jose Silva Gonzalez (5-1-1, 4 KOs) of Sparks, Nevada. After a pair of closely fought opening rounds, won by Alvarado with his smothering activity rate, Alvarado dropped Silva on the seat of his trunks late in round three with a seismic right hand. The resilient Silva somehow managed to survive the bell. It didn’t get any better for Silva in the last round, as he spent much of the three minutes taking heavy punishment under the watchful eye of Referee Ray Corona. The scores were 40-35, 40-35 and 39-36.
In a four-round battle between two 18-year-old super bantamweights Emiliano Alvarado (8-0, 5 KOs) Los Angeles won a hard-fought unanimous decision over Alejandro Mejia (2-2) of Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico. Making his US fighting debut, Alvarado hurt Mejia briefly with a left hook in an action-packed first round and again in a more dominant round two. Mejia staged an impressive comeback in round three, pushing Alvarado around the ring with relentless combinations. Unfortunately, Referee Jerry Cantu found a way to insert himself into the action in a close-fought round four by abruptly penalizing the out-of-town fighter Mejia for a low blow without sufficient previous warnings, with seconds to go in the fight. The scores were 39-36 (twice) and 38-37.
Opening up the broadcast action, San Bernardino junior welterweight Daniel Cruz (10-0, 3 KOs) stayed undefeated by scoring a spirited six-round unanimous decision over Delhi, India’s Sachin Rohila (8-4, 2 KOs). The two prospects tore into each other from the start, with Cruz outworking his tough Indian opponent. Both fighters had their moments, but Cruz’s activity rate made the difference in most rounds. The scores were 60-54 and 59-55 (twice).
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Ball to defend vs. Goodman in Riyadh |
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On August 16th, Riyadh, Saudia Arabia will play host to a high-stakes showdown between two undefeated warriors who only know one direction—forward. WBA featherweight champion Nick Ball (22-0-1, 13 KOs) of Liverpool puts his belt on the line against Australia’s Sam Goodman (20-0, 8 KOs) in a battle that’s expected to ignite from the opening bell. Ball, age 28, is a whirlwind in the ring. Short in stature at just 5’2”, but big on power and pressure, the Brit fights like a man with something to prove every time out. After impressive wins over TJ Doheny and Ronny Ríos, he now makes the third defense of the title he captured in 2024 with a statement win that dethroned Raymond Ford. Goodman, the 26-year-old standout from Down Under, moves up from super bantamweight chasing his first taste of world championship gold. Known for his sharp technique, measured pace, and airtight defense, he brings a cerebral style that contrasts sharply with Ball’s relentless aggression—setting the stage for a classic boxer vs. brawler matchup.
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Ball to defend vs. Goodman in Riyadh
On August 16th, Riyadh, Saudia Arabia will play host to a high-stakes showdown between two undefeated warriors who only know one direction—forward. WBA featherweight champion Nick Ball (22-0-1, 13 KOs) of Liverpool puts his belt on the line against Australia’s Sam Goodman (20-0, 8 KOs) in a battle that’s expected to ignite from the opening bell. Ball, age 28, is a whirlwind in the ring. Short in stature at just 5’2”, but big on power and pressure, the Brit fights like a man with something to prove every time out. After impressive wins over TJ Doheny and Ronny Ríos, he now makes the third defense of the title he captured in 2024 with a statement win that dethroned Raymond Ford. Goodman, the 26-year-old standout from Down Under, moves up from super bantamweight chasing his first taste of world championship gold. Known for his sharp technique, measured pace, and airtight defense, he brings a cerebral style that contrasts sharply with Ball’s relentless aggression—setting the stage for a classic boxer vs. brawler matchup.
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Weigh-in report from Newark, NJ |
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Here are the boxers' weights for Saturday's ESPN+ show at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The ESPN+ stream begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
Vito Mielnicki Jr. 159.5 pounds vs. Kamil Gardzielik 159.5 (ten rounds);
Jahi Tucker 160 vs. Lorenzo Simpson 159.5 (ten rounds);
Damian Knyba 254.5 vs. Marcin Siwy 244 (ten rounds);
Brandun Lee 143 vs. Elias Araujo 142 (eight rounds);
Dwyke Flemmings Jr. 154 vs. Demián Fernandez 154 (eight rounds);
Norman Neely 249.5 vs. James Willis 262.5 (eight rounds);
Arjan Iseni 175 vs. Kaine Tomlinson Jr. 175 (four rounds);
Muadh Abdus-Salaam 144 vs. Roberto Cantos 145.5 (four rounds);
Kahshad Eliott 154 vs. Titus Ashe 153 (four rounds);
(OFF TV, 5:10 p.m. ET/2:10 p.m. PT):
Jamar Talley 197.5 vs. Kurt Fleming 204.5 (four rounds); abd
Lisandra Contreras 121 vs. Montana Weems 122 (swing bout, four rounds).
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Weigh-in report from Newark, NJ
Here are the boxers' weights for Saturday's ESPN+ show at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The ESPN+ stream begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
Vito Mielnicki Jr. 159.5 pounds vs. Kamil Gardzielik 159.5 (ten rounds);
Jahi Tucker 160 vs. Lorenzo Simpson 159.5 (ten rounds);
Damian Knyba 254.5 vs. Marcin Siwy 244 (ten rounds);
Brandun Lee 143 vs. Elias Araujo 142 (eight rounds);
Dwyke Flemmings Jr. 154 vs. Demián Fernandez 154 (eight rounds);
Norman Neely 249.5 vs. James Willis 262.5 (eight rounds);
Arjan Iseni 175 vs. Kaine Tomlinson Jr. 175 (four rounds);
Muadh Abdus-Salaam 144 vs. Roberto Cantos 145.5 (four rounds);
Kahshad Eliott 154 vs. Titus Ashe 153 (four rounds);
(OFF TV, 5:10 p.m. ET/2:10 p.m. PT):
Jamar Talley 197.5 vs. Kurt Fleming 204.5 (four rounds); abd
Lisandra Contreras 121 vs. Montana Weems 122 (swing bout, four rounds).
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Pradabsri to give Canizalez rematch in Venezuela |
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Venezuela Top Boxing announced that on Friday, August 1st, Venezuela's Carlos Cañizales, will once again challenge for the WBC light flyweight world title against Thailand’s Panya Pradabsri. This time, the fight will take place in the Poliedro de Caracas. They also confirmed the live broadcast via ESPN Nocaut for all of Latin America. Cañizales previously contended for the world title on December 26th in Thailand against Pradabsri (44-2), where the judges favored the Thai by majority decision (114-114 / 113-115 / 112-116) in a close and controversial bout. Cañizales (27-3-1), 32 years old, possesses a knockout power ratio of above 70%. Canizalez is considered by many to be the current face of Venezuelan boxing, he had a bittersweet year due to the close loss for Pradabsri.The champion, born in Nam Yuen, Thailand, will travel across the world to try and prove that the decision at the end of 2024 was no fluke. It’s worth noting that this will be his first time leaving his homeland since late 2023, when he fell by unanimous decision in Japan to local fighter Yudai Shigeoka.
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Pradabsri to give Canizalez rematch in Venezuela
Venezuela Top Boxing announced that on Friday, August 1st, Venezuela's Carlos Cañizales, will once again challenge for the WBC light flyweight world title against Thailand’s Panya Pradabsri. This time, the fight will take place in the Poliedro de Caracas. They also confirmed the live broadcast via ESPN Nocaut for all of Latin America. Cañizales previously contended for the world title on December 26th in Thailand against Pradabsri (44-2), where the judges favored the Thai by majority decision (114-114 / 113-115 / 112-116) in a close and controversial bout. Cañizales (27-3-1), 32 years old, possesses a knockout power ratio of above 70%. Canizalez is considered by many to be the current face of Venezuelan boxing, he had a bittersweet year due to the close loss for Pradabsri.The champion, born in Nam Yuen, Thailand, will travel across the world to try and prove that the decision at the end of 2024 was no fluke. It’s worth noting that this will be his first time leaving his homeland since late 2023, when he fell by unanimous decision in Japan to local fighter Yudai Shigeoka.
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New champion alert: Simsri claims vacant title via split decision |
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Thanongsak Simsri W12 Christian Araneta... In a cautious twelve-round chess match held in Tokyo, Thanongsak Simsri of Thailand claimed the vacant IBF junior flyweight championship. Simsri edged Christian Araneta of the Philipines on two of the judges’ scorecards, 115-112 and 116-111. The third judge had it 114-113 for Araneta, giving Simsri the title by split decision. Simsri had to overcome a third-round knockdown to win. His record improved to 39-1 with 34 knockouts, while Araneta dropped to 25-3 with 20 KOs. For the hardcores, Simsri's only loss came in 2022 to Masimichi Yabuki, who went on to win, and then vacate, the same title that Simsri just won. Yabuki now holds the IBF flyweight championship.
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New champion alert: Simsri claims vacant title via split decision
Thanongsak Simsri W12 Christian Araneta... In a cautious twelve-round chess match held in Tokyo, Thanongsak Simsri of Thailand claimed the vacant IBF junior flyweight championship. Simsri edged Christian Araneta of the Philipines on two of the judges’ scorecards, 115-112 and 116-111. The third judge had it 114-113 for Araneta, giving Simsri the title by split decision. Simsri had to overcome a third-round knockdown to win. His record improved to 39-1 with 34 knockouts, while Araneta dropped to 25-3 with 20 KOs. For the hardcores, Simsri's only loss came in 2022 to Masimichi Yabuki, who went on to win, and then vacate, the same title that Simsri just won. Yabuki now holds the IBF flyweight championship.
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Tonight on DAZN: Khamukov vs. Stevens |
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Russian super middleweight Petr “The Surgeon” Khamukov (13-0, 6 KOs) will headline “LA Friday Night Fights” against David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-2, 10 KOs) this week in Long Beach, California. Khamukov faces Stevens, who was a standout amateur boxer out of Pennsylvania, in a ten rounder that will be streamed live this Friday on DAZN from Thunder Studios. A promotional free agent who now resides in Woodland Hills (CA), Khamukov had 350 amateur matches, represented Russia in the 2016 Olympics, and he was the only Russian to qualify for the same Olympics in two weights classes (middleweight and light heavyweight). He captured gold medals at the 2015 European Championships and 2016 Russian National Championships.
Khamukov, age 33, is excited to be fighting again, never mind headlining, because he has had a difficult time securing fights prior to signing a managerial contract with 3 Point Management (3 PM). Khamukov’s last fight was 13 months ago, when he knocked out Esau Herrera de la Cruz (21-16-1) in the third round. “It was a real challenge, both physically and mentally,” Khamukov spoke about his absence from the ring. “As they say, the darkest night is followed by the brightest dawn. That time away helped me reset, reflect, and come back even stronger. Sometimes those moments are necessary to build true resilience. You have to ask fighters why they have avoided me. I’ve always been ready to fight but they weren’t. Maybe the risk just didn’t justify the reward? Fear of losing can be a powerful force. Let them run, I’m not chasing anyone. I’m focused on my own path.
“It’s a huge honor and a big responsibility to be headlining this Friday night in Long Beach. A main event, worthy opponent, and a team that’s worked incredibly hard to get us here. Now it’s time to do what I do best: step into the ring and prove myself. Fighting on DAZN is a launchpad to a whole new level. Millions of eyes, a bigger stage and new doors that could open for me after a strong performance. One thing will stay the same: moving forward with dignity and respect for the sport, my opponent and myself.”
In his most recent fight last November in Las Vegas, the 24-year-old Stevens lost a twelve-round split decision to Bektemir Melikuziev (14-1, 10 KOs). Stevens’ most impressive performance to date was an eight-round stoppage of then 14-0 Sean Hemphill in 2023.
“My opponent is a strong, experienced fighter, no doubt about it,” Khamukov said. “I respect that, but I didn’t just start boxing yesterday, either. I’ve prepared thoroughly – physically, mentally, tactically. The rest will be shown in the ring. I don’t talk much, I do, and that’s what professionalism is about.
“The biggest change in training camp has been volume. We’ve increased endurance work and focused on managing pace and energy. At my core, I’m still the same…. aggressive, technical, and hungry for victory.
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Tonight on DAZN: Khamukov vs. Stevens
Russian super middleweight Petr “The Surgeon” Khamukov (13-0, 6 KOs) will headline “LA Friday Night Fights” against David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-2, 10 KOs) this week in Long Beach, California. Khamukov faces Stevens, who was a standout amateur boxer out of Pennsylvania, in a ten rounder that will be streamed live this Friday on DAZN from Thunder Studios. A promotional free agent who now resides in Woodland Hills (CA), Khamukov had 350 amateur matches, represented Russia in the 2016 Olympics, and he was the only Russian to qualify for the same Olympics in two weights classes (middleweight and light heavyweight). He captured gold medals at the 2015 European Championships and 2016 Russian National Championships.
Khamukov, age 33, is excited to be fighting again, never mind headlining, because he has had a difficult time securing fights prior to signing a managerial contract with 3 Point Management (3 PM). Khamukov’s last fight was 13 months ago, when he knocked out Esau Herrera de la Cruz (21-16-1) in the third round. “It was a real challenge, both physically and mentally,” Khamukov spoke about his absence from the ring. “As they say, the darkest night is followed by the brightest dawn. That time away helped me reset, reflect, and come back even stronger. Sometimes those moments are necessary to build true resilience. You have to ask fighters why they have avoided me. I’ve always been ready to fight but they weren’t. Maybe the risk just didn’t justify the reward? Fear of losing can be a powerful force. Let them run, I’m not chasing anyone. I’m focused on my own path.
“It’s a huge honor and a big responsibility to be headlining this Friday night in Long Beach. A main event, worthy opponent, and a team that’s worked incredibly hard to get us here. Now it’s time to do what I do best: step into the ring and prove myself. Fighting on DAZN is a launchpad to a whole new level. Millions of eyes, a bigger stage and new doors that could open for me after a strong performance. One thing will stay the same: moving forward with dignity and respect for the sport, my opponent and myself.”
In his most recent fight last November in Las Vegas, the 24-year-old Stevens lost a twelve-round split decision to Bektemir Melikuziev (14-1, 10 KOs). Stevens’ most impressive performance to date was an eight-round stoppage of then 14-0 Sean Hemphill in 2023.
“My opponent is a strong, experienced fighter, no doubt about it,” Khamukov said. “I respect that, but I didn’t just start boxing yesterday, either. I’ve prepared thoroughly – physically, mentally, tactically. The rest will be shown in the ring. I don’t talk much, I do, and that’s what professionalism is about.
“The biggest change in training camp has been volume. We’ve increased endurance work and focused on managing pace and energy. At my core, I’m still the same…. aggressive, technical, and hungry for victory.
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Isaac Cruz: "I always fight like I’m down on the cards" |
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After a tense back-and-forth at the press conference to announce their July 19th rematch, Mexican star and former 140-pound title holder Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz promised a decisive ending the second time he faces Mexican rival Angel Fierro as they square off again on a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. “We’re working even harder than last time so we can give Fierro a beatdown on July 19th,” said Cruz.
At a press conference in Los Angeles earlier this week, Fierro claimed that had “figured Cruz out” and had previously hurt him in the third round of their first fight, proving that “Isaac doesn’t have the chin that people say he has.” While Cruz disagrees with Fierro’s assessment of the action, he’s choosing not to focus on the antagonistic barbs. “Fierro’s shot in the third round was to the back of the head, not the chin, and that would make anyone stumble,” said Cruz. “I will make sure that doesn’t happen again…Maybe Fierro didn’t watch the fight or doesn’t know how to identify body parts. He wants to piss me off, but I fight with a cool head and a hot heart. He’s not going to distract me by saying baseless and idiotic things.”
The Mexico City-native Cruz earned the close decision on all three scorecards the first time around, but appeared less effective in the second half of the fight, as Fierro out landed him 132 to 106 across the final five frames. Despite getting the nod, Cruz believes that a more focused training camp will yield the dominant result he seeks.
“We are fully seizing the moment this time around,” said Cruz. “We were kind of lackadaisical the first time around, but that’s not happening this time. It’s all internal motivation. No pain, just working toward the best possible result. All I’m doing is going from the gym to the house and back.
“My mentality is always to fight like I’m down on the cards, because that brings out the best of me. I was lacking consistency in my pressure in the first fight and letting him think. We have a plan to fix that and implement a wider variety of punches to get the job done.”
Adding to Cruz’s motivation to perform is that he’ll be fighting on the undercard of an event headlined by his promoter and idol, International Boxing Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao. Cruz recalled some of his favorite Pacquiao moments before he warms up the crowd for Pacquiao on July 19th. “I still can’t believe I am sharing a card with Pacquiao,” said Cruz. “It truly is a thrill. I read the contract and couldn’t believe it. My favorite Pacquiao fights are his fight against Ricky Hatton, his fights against Juan Manuel Márquez, and really any of his entertaining matchups against Mexican opponents, and his fight against Floyd Mayweather. Whenever Pacquiao fought Marquez, it was a clash of emotions for me. I wanted Márquez to win as a fellow Mexican, but It was 50/50 because I always loved Pacquiao’s fighting style so much.”
While discussing his history of watching Pacquiao, Cruz pointed out how the Pacquiao vs. Márquez rematch, along with two other great Mexico vs. Mexico rivalries, yielded even more exciting action the second time around, a feat that he believes he and Fierro will repeat.
“Look at Pacquiao vs. Márquez, Erik Morales vs. Marco Antonio Barrera and Israel Vázquez vs. Rafael Márquez, all three of those second bouts were even better than the first,” said Cruz. “This rematch won’t be the exception. I like to give it my all so that the fans can enjoy themselves. If other fighters like to lull them to sleep or bore them, that’s on them. It will never be my style.”
Always confident heading into the ring, Cruz re-emphasized his belief that he’ll make it two for two against Fierro and set his sights on the sport’s biggest names and world champions for his future plans.
“This fight is going to end with Isaac Cruz winning in the best way possible,” said Cruz. “After that, I would like to face (WBO 140-pound champion) Teofimo Lopez and (WBC 140-pound champion) Alberto Puello. I would like to stay at 140, but if facing Gervonta Davis requires going down to 135, I have no issues with that either.”
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Isaac Cruz: "I always fight like I’m down on the cards"
After a tense back-and-forth at the press conference to announce their July 19th rematch, Mexican star and former 140-pound title holder Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz promised a decisive ending the second time he faces Mexican rival Angel Fierro as they square off again on a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. “We’re working even harder than last time so we can give Fierro a beatdown on July 19th,” said Cruz.
At a press conference in Los Angeles earlier this week, Fierro claimed that had “figured Cruz out” and had previously hurt him in the third round of their first fight, proving that “Isaac doesn’t have the chin that people say he has.” While Cruz disagrees with Fierro’s assessment of the action, he’s choosing not to focus on the antagonistic barbs. “Fierro’s shot in the third round was to the back of the head, not the chin, and that would make anyone stumble,” said Cruz. “I will make sure that doesn’t happen again…Maybe Fierro didn’t watch the fight or doesn’t know how to identify body parts. He wants to piss me off, but I fight with a cool head and a hot heart. He’s not going to distract me by saying baseless and idiotic things.”
The Mexico City-native Cruz earned the close decision on all three scorecards the first time around, but appeared less effective in the second half of the fight, as Fierro out landed him 132 to 106 across the final five frames. Despite getting the nod, Cruz believes that a more focused training camp will yield the dominant result he seeks.
“We are fully seizing the moment this time around,” said Cruz. “We were kind of lackadaisical the first time around, but that’s not happening this time. It’s all internal motivation. No pain, just working toward the best possible result. All I’m doing is going from the gym to the house and back.
“My mentality is always to fight like I’m down on the cards, because that brings out the best of me. I was lacking consistency in my pressure in the first fight and letting him think. We have a plan to fix that and implement a wider variety of punches to get the job done.”
Adding to Cruz’s motivation to perform is that he’ll be fighting on the undercard of an event headlined by his promoter and idol, International Boxing Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao. Cruz recalled some of his favorite Pacquiao moments before he warms up the crowd for Pacquiao on July 19th. “I still can’t believe I am sharing a card with Pacquiao,” said Cruz. “It truly is a thrill. I read the contract and couldn’t believe it. My favorite Pacquiao fights are his fight against Ricky Hatton, his fights against Juan Manuel Márquez, and really any of his entertaining matchups against Mexican opponents, and his fight against Floyd Mayweather. Whenever Pacquiao fought Marquez, it was a clash of emotions for me. I wanted Márquez to win as a fellow Mexican, but It was 50/50 because I always loved Pacquiao’s fighting style so much.”
While discussing his history of watching Pacquiao, Cruz pointed out how the Pacquiao vs. Márquez rematch, along with two other great Mexico vs. Mexico rivalries, yielded even more exciting action the second time around, a feat that he believes he and Fierro will repeat.
“Look at Pacquiao vs. Márquez, Erik Morales vs. Marco Antonio Barrera and Israel Vázquez vs. Rafael Márquez, all three of those second bouts were even better than the first,” said Cruz. “This rematch won’t be the exception. I like to give it my all so that the fans can enjoy themselves. If other fighters like to lull them to sleep or bore them, that’s on them. It will never be my style.”
Always confident heading into the ring, Cruz re-emphasized his belief that he’ll make it two for two against Fierro and set his sights on the sport’s biggest names and world champions for his future plans.
“This fight is going to end with Isaac Cruz winning in the best way possible,” said Cruz. “After that, I would like to face (WBO 140-pound champion) Teofimo Lopez and (WBC 140-pound champion) Alberto Puello. I would like to stay at 140, but if facing Gervonta Davis requires going down to 135, I have no issues with that either.”
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WBA bringing boxing action to Spain |
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The first European Convention of the WBA is set to delivering a big night of fights on July 17th at Madrid’s Teatro Las Vegas. The event, promoted by The Boxer Club, will feature eleven bouts. In the main event, Moroccan junior lighweight Moussa Gholam (23-1, 14 KOs) will be matched against Argentina’s Maximiliano Verón (11-1, 4 KOs). The chief support features Cuban two-time Olympic gold medalist Arlen López (4-0, 2 KOs), in a light heavyweight contest Mexican veteran Paúl Valenzuela Cuesta (28-12-1, 18 KOs). In a third bout, German middleweight Bujar Tahiri (19-0, 9 KOs) takes on Argentina’s Jonathan Wilson Sánchez (25-7-1).
The card also includes four six-round professional fights showcasing flyweight Samuel Carmona, middleweight Ezequiel Gurría, Antonio Collado and promising Cuban contender Jorge Soto, all awaiting official opponent announcements.
As part of its strong push to support grassroots boxing, the WBA is also presenting four Olympic-style matchups, featuring standout amateurs like Rafael Lozano Jr., Ana Layezca, Rodolpho Fuentealba, and Clara Cortés. This night of boxing will serve as the grand finale to a historic convention set for July 15–18, bringing together the European boxing comunity—and marking a new era for the WBA on the continent.
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WBA bringing boxing action to Spain
The first European Convention of the WBA is set to delivering a big night of fights on July 17th at Madrid’s Teatro Las Vegas. The event, promoted by The Boxer Club, will feature eleven bouts. In the main event, Moroccan junior lighweight Moussa Gholam (23-1, 14 KOs) will be matched against Argentina’s Maximiliano Verón (11-1, 4 KOs). The chief support features Cuban two-time Olympic gold medalist Arlen López (4-0, 2 KOs), in a light heavyweight contest Mexican veteran Paúl Valenzuela Cuesta (28-12-1, 18 KOs). In a third bout, German middleweight Bujar Tahiri (19-0, 9 KOs) takes on Argentina’s Jonathan Wilson Sánchez (25-7-1).
The card also includes four six-round professional fights showcasing flyweight Samuel Carmona, middleweight Ezequiel Gurría, Antonio Collado and promising Cuban contender Jorge Soto, all awaiting official opponent announcements.
As part of its strong push to support grassroots boxing, the WBA is also presenting four Olympic-style matchups, featuring standout amateurs like Rafael Lozano Jr., Ana Layezca, Rodolpho Fuentealba, and Clara Cortés. This night of boxing will serve as the grand finale to a historic convention set for July 15–18, bringing together the European boxing comunity—and marking a new era for the WBA on the continent.
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Polish boxers featured on Saturday's ESPN+ show |
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Vito Mielnicki Jr. (20-1-1, 12 KOs) is ready to light up Brick City a/k/a Newark, New Jersey. The Roseland native will take on unbeaten Polish middleweight Kamil Gardzielik (19-0, 4 KOs) in a ten-round main event this Saturday, June 21st at Prudential Center. In the ten-round co-feature, Jahi Tucker (14-1-1, 6 KOs) and Lorenzo “Truck” Simpson (15-2, 9 KOs) will settle unfinished business in another middleweight clash. Following weeks of online back-and-forth — including conflicting stories about past sparring sessions — both look to resolve any doubts in the only way that counts. Additionally, undefeated Polish heavyweights Damian Knyba (15-0, 9 KOs) and Marcin Siwy (25-0-1, 12 KOs) will meet in a ten-rounder. Mielnicki-Gardzielik, Tucker-Simpson, Knyba-Siwy, and additional undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. starting at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
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Polish boxers featured on Saturday's ESPN+ show
Vito Mielnicki Jr. (20-1-1, 12 KOs) is ready to light up Brick City a/k/a Newark, New Jersey. The Roseland native will take on unbeaten Polish middleweight Kamil Gardzielik (19-0, 4 KOs) in a ten-round main event this Saturday, June 21st at Prudential Center. In the ten-round co-feature, Jahi Tucker (14-1-1, 6 KOs) and Lorenzo “Truck” Simpson (15-2, 9 KOs) will settle unfinished business in another middleweight clash. Following weeks of online back-and-forth — including conflicting stories about past sparring sessions — both look to resolve any doubts in the only way that counts. Additionally, undefeated Polish heavyweights Damian Knyba (15-0, 9 KOs) and Marcin Siwy (25-0-1, 12 KOs) will meet in a ten-rounder. Mielnicki-Gardzielik, Tucker-Simpson, Knyba-Siwy, and additional undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. starting at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
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Busy fight week for Mielnicki in New Jersey |
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New Jersey’s Vito Mielnicki Jr. returned home this week from his training camp in Houston wit trainer Ronnie Shields ahead of his homecoming fight against undefeated Kamil Gardzielik of Poland this Saturday night, June 21st at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The event, promoted by Top Rank and Rising Star Promotions, will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com.
On Monday afternoon, Mielnicki held a community event at the Roseland Recreation Department for hundreds of local youths who were treated to tickets for Saturday’s fight, in addition to autographs, pictures, and free merchandise. Following the event, he headed to Legacy Boxing Gym in Belleville, N.J., for one of his final fight week training sessions.
Tuesday morning brought Mielnicki to Noecker Elementary School in Roseland, N.J., his alma mater. He addressed a large group of sixth graders as the special guest at their year-end award assembly.
On Tuesday afternoon, Vito was given a special tour of the New York Jets Training Facility by the front office staff and presented with a personalized team jersey.
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Busy fight week for Mielnicki in New Jersey
New Jersey’s Vito Mielnicki Jr. returned home this week from his training camp in Houston wit trainer Ronnie Shields ahead of his homecoming fight against undefeated Kamil Gardzielik of Poland this Saturday night, June 21st at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The event, promoted by Top Rank and Rising Star Promotions, will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com.
On Monday afternoon, Mielnicki held a community event at the Roseland Recreation Department for hundreds of local youths who were treated to tickets for Saturday’s fight, in addition to autographs, pictures, and free merchandise. Following the event, he headed to Legacy Boxing Gym in Belleville, N.J., for one of his final fight week training sessions.
Tuesday morning brought Mielnicki to Noecker Elementary School in Roseland, N.J., his alma mater. He addressed a large group of sixth graders as the special guest at their year-end award assembly.
On Tuesday afternoon, Vito was given a special tour of the New York Jets Training Facility by the front office staff and presented with a personalized team jersey.
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Norman gets highlight-reel KO vs. Sasaki |
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Brian Norman KO5 Jin Sasaki... WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr. defended his strap with a concussive fifth-round knockout of hometown challenger Jin Sasaki on Thursday at Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo. This marked the second successful defense for the 24-year-old Norman (28-0, 22 KOs), an Atlanta native and boxing's youngest male world champion. Sasaki (19-2-1, 17 KOs) saw his nine-fight unbeaten streak end at the hands of Norman, who unleashed a powerful left hook that left him on the canvas for several minutes. “It was a wonderful fight. I had a great opponent in front of me. You all seen he got heart. That boy is not a slouch at all. I give nothing but props to him. I love ya’ll over here in Japan. I’d gladly come back," Norman said. “I knew whatever he was bringing to the table, I’m a champion for a reason. As you saw, I showed that.”
He showed that in the opening minute of the fight, dropping Sasaki with a left hook to the top of the head. Norman notched another knockdown at the end of the round, but Sasaki survived and fought on. Norman almost secured the stoppage in round three, pinning Sasaki to the ropes and finding a home for uppercuts and straight right hands. Two rounds later, the end came courtesy of a Knockout of the Year contender. Norman said, “I wish I had a certain fight coming up {against Jaron "Boots" Ennis}. They heard B. Norm the storm is coming, and you know what happens when a storm is coming. You grab your boots and run. We shall see what’s next for me."
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Norman gets highlight-reel KO vs. Sasaki
Brian Norman KO5 Jin Sasaki... WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr. defended his strap with a concussive fifth-round knockout of hometown challenger Jin Sasaki on Thursday at Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo. This marked the second successful defense for the 24-year-old Norman (28-0, 22 KOs), an Atlanta native and boxing's youngest male world champion. Sasaki (19-2-1, 17 KOs) saw his nine-fight unbeaten streak end at the hands of Norman, who unleashed a powerful left hook that left him on the canvas for several minutes. “It was a wonderful fight. I had a great opponent in front of me. You all seen he got heart. That boy is not a slouch at all. I give nothing but props to him. I love ya’ll over here in Japan. I’d gladly come back," Norman said. “I knew whatever he was bringing to the table, I’m a champion for a reason. As you saw, I showed that.”
He showed that in the opening minute of the fight, dropping Sasaki with a left hook to the top of the head. Norman notched another knockdown at the end of the round, but Sasaki survived and fought on. Norman almost secured the stoppage in round three, pinning Sasaki to the ropes and finding a home for uppercuts and straight right hands. Two rounds later, the end came courtesy of a Knockout of the Year contender. Norman said, “I wish I had a certain fight coming up {against Jaron "Boots" Ennis}. They heard B. Norm the storm is coming, and you know what happens when a storm is coming. You grab your boots and run. We shall see what’s next for me."
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Wiggins vs. Linger to headline in Johnstown, PA |
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On June 21st, boxing returns to Johnstown, Pennsylvania, as the “Rumble by the River” lights up the town. In the main event, hometown favorite Tre’Sean “Trigger” Wiggins will square off against the battle-tested Dakota Linger in the welterweight division. Wiggins (16-5-3, 9 KOs), a slick southpaw known for his technical skills and distance control, enters the ring at age 35 riding a wave of five straight wins. “I’m ready to prove I’ve still got a lot left in the tank,” he recently told reporters. But standing in his way is Linger (16-6-3, 6 KOs), a rugged brawler out of West Virginia with a pressure-heavy style and a sturdy chin. The winner of three in a row, Linger's not the flashiest, but he’s relentless, the kind of opponent who turns a boxing match into a firefight. His game plan is no secret: cut the ring, close the gap, and drag Wiggins into the trenches. This one’s a contrast in styles: Wiggins’ finesse versus Linger’s grit.
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Wiggins vs. Linger to headline in Johnstown, PA
On June 21st, boxing returns to Johnstown, Pennsylvania, as the “Rumble by the River” lights up the town. In the main event, hometown favorite Tre’Sean “Trigger” Wiggins will square off against the battle-tested Dakota Linger in the welterweight division. Wiggins (16-5-3, 9 KOs), a slick southpaw known for his technical skills and distance control, enters the ring at age 35 riding a wave of five straight wins. “I’m ready to prove I’ve still got a lot left in the tank,” he recently told reporters. But standing in his way is Linger (16-6-3, 6 KOs), a rugged brawler out of West Virginia with a pressure-heavy style and a sturdy chin. The winner of three in a row, Linger's not the flashiest, but he’s relentless, the kind of opponent who turns a boxing match into a firefight. His game plan is no secret: cut the ring, close the gap, and drag Wiggins into the trenches. This one’s a contrast in styles: Wiggins’ finesse versus Linger’s grit.
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Middleweight Dante Kirkman graduates from Stanford |
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Undefeated middleweight Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs) has earned his bachelor's degree from Stanford University, one of the finest academic institutions in the country. With this achievement, Kirkman becomes the first professional boxer in history to graduate from Stanford, fulfilling a lifelong dream born and nurtured in his hometown of Palo Alto, California. Balancing the rigorous academic demands of one of the nation’s top universities with the physical and mental challenges of life as a professional fighter, Kirkman’s journey is one of unrelenting determination and passion. “Graduating from Stanford is a dream come true,” said Kirkman. “Growing up practically across the street from campus, I always told myself I’d wear that cap and gown one day. To walk across that stage as both a student and a professional athlete means everything to me.”
While pursuing his degree, Kirkman maintained an undefeated record in the ring—demonstrating the same grit in class as he did in competition. “There were moments I questioned whether I could juggle it all,” Kirkman reflected. “Early mornings, late nights, training sessions in between lectures—it was grueling. But every challenge sharpened me. It taught me how to manage my time, push through fatigue, and never lose sight of my goals.”
As both an athlete and scholar, Kirkman hopes his story will ignite the ambitions of young athletes everywhere. “If I can do it, so can you,” he continued. “No dream is too big. Whether it’s an elite education or a championship fight, don’t ever let anyone tell you it’s one or the other. You can do both—you just have to believe in yourself and put in the hard work.” Kirkman will be launching his own nonprofit soon to help others make this journey, as one of his goals is to use his professional stature to pay it forward and help uplift others in the boxing community.
With diploma in hand, Kirkman is now focused on climbing the ranks in the middleweight division, with plans to return to the ring later this summer. “This is just the beginning. I’ve got my degree, but I’m still chasing greatness inside the ring. I’m hungrier than ever—and now, even more prepared to take on the world.”
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Middleweight Dante Kirkman graduates from Stanford
Undefeated middleweight Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs) has earned his bachelor's degree from Stanford University, one of the finest academic institutions in the country. With this achievement, Kirkman becomes the first professional boxer in history to graduate from Stanford, fulfilling a lifelong dream born and nurtured in his hometown of Palo Alto, California. Balancing the rigorous academic demands of one of the nation’s top universities with the physical and mental challenges of life as a professional fighter, Kirkman’s journey is one of unrelenting determination and passion. “Graduating from Stanford is a dream come true,” said Kirkman. “Growing up practically across the street from campus, I always told myself I’d wear that cap and gown one day. To walk across that stage as both a student and a professional athlete means everything to me.”
While pursuing his degree, Kirkman maintained an undefeated record in the ring—demonstrating the same grit in class as he did in competition. “There were moments I questioned whether I could juggle it all,” Kirkman reflected. “Early mornings, late nights, training sessions in between lectures—it was grueling. But every challenge sharpened me. It taught me how to manage my time, push through fatigue, and never lose sight of my goals.”
As both an athlete and scholar, Kirkman hopes his story will ignite the ambitions of young athletes everywhere. “If I can do it, so can you,” he continued. “No dream is too big. Whether it’s an elite education or a championship fight, don’t ever let anyone tell you it’s one or the other. You can do both—you just have to believe in yourself and put in the hard work.” Kirkman will be launching his own nonprofit soon to help others make this journey, as one of his goals is to use his professional stature to pay it forward and help uplift others in the boxing community.
With diploma in hand, Kirkman is now focused on climbing the ranks in the middleweight division, with plans to return to the ring later this summer. “This is just the beginning. I’ve got my degree, but I’m still chasing greatness inside the ring. I’m hungrier than ever—and now, even more prepared to take on the world.”
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Weigh-in report from Tokyo |
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Here are the boxers' weights for the championship doubleheader in Tokyo. There will be live coverage from the Ota City General Gymnasium on ESPN+ very early Thursday morning starting at 4 a.m. ET/1 a.m. PT. The main event is expected to begin at approximately 7:15 a.m. ET/4:15 a.m. PT.
WBO welterweight title — twelve rounds
Brian Norman Jr. 146.8 pounds vs. Jin Sasaki 146.8
Referee: Gustavo Tomas (Argentina); Judges: Richard Blouin (Canada), Tetsuya Iida (Japan), and Robin Taylor (USA);
Vacant IBF flyweight title — twelve rounds
Cristian Araneta 107.6 vs. Thanongsak Simsri 107.4;
Vacant OPBF welterweight title — twelve rounds
Sora Tanaka 146.8 vs. Takeru Kobata 146.8; and
Vacant Japanese featherweight title — ten rounds
Yuya Oku 125.4 vs. Reiya Abe 125.7.
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Weigh-in report from Tokyo
Here are the boxers' weights for the championship doubleheader in Tokyo. There will be live coverage from the Ota City General Gymnasium on ESPN+ very early Thursday morning starting at 4 a.m. ET/1 a.m. PT. The main event is expected to begin at approximately 7:15 a.m. ET/4:15 a.m. PT.
WBO welterweight title — twelve rounds
Brian Norman Jr. 146.8 pounds vs. Jin Sasaki 146.8
Referee: Gustavo Tomas (Argentina); Judges: Richard Blouin (Canada), Tetsuya Iida (Japan), and Robin Taylor (USA);
Vacant IBF flyweight title — twelve rounds
Cristian Araneta 107.6 vs. Thanongsak Simsri 107.4;
Vacant OPBF welterweight title — twelve rounds
Sora Tanaka 146.8 vs. Takeru Kobata 146.8; and
Vacant Japanese featherweight title — ten rounds
Yuya Oku 125.4 vs. Reiya Abe 125.7.
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Undefeated Ukrainian heavyweights added to big Wembley card |
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A strong heavyweight theme is emerging for the blockbuster Wembley Stadium night on Saturday July 19th when Daniel Dubois will attempt to topple Oleksandr Usyk and become undisputed world champion. On what will be a historic night whichever way it goes - it is the first time an undisputed heavyweight collision has taken place on British soil - promoter Frank Warren recently revealed that with just over a month to go before punches are exchanged in the the national stadium will be packed. But the big bombs will not just be delivered by Dubois because, currently, there are a further two heavyweight showdowns on the undercard. There will be a clash of the unbeaten Ukrainians, with Andrii Novytskyi taking on Queensberry man Vladyslav Sirenko. Previously announced, two bridgerweight champions now operating up a weight will do battle. Lawrence Okolie, also a former cruiserweight world champion, will have his second fight at heavyweight against the dangerous South African Kevin Lerena.
Novytskyi, age 29 and with 15 straight wins on his clock, scored a first-round KO of Keith Rydell Mayes Jr in July last year and returned in Riyadh in December by outpointing Edgar Ramirez in what was his second appearance in Saudi Arabia.
Sirenko, age 30, who like Novytskyi resides in the US, will be in his first title action since defeating Andrii Rudenko at the end of 2021. He also holds a first-round stoppage of Aleksandr Ustinov earlier that year in Paris.
Lerena, of course, is remembered on these shores for his epic encounter with Dubois for the WBA regular world title at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in late 2022. Dubois was caught early in the first round, injured himself on the way down, then touched canvas a further two times in the opener before gathering his poise and stopping his man in the third. The 33-year-old, also a former IBO champion at cruiserweight, became WBC champion at bridgerweight in October 2024 following Okolie relinquishing the belt. He was previously the interim champion following his victory over Senad Gashi. Okolie, 32, introduced himself in the marquee division with a blistering first round stoppage of Hussein Muhamed last December at Wembley Arena.
Dropping down in weight to light heavy, Wembley will host another battle of unbeaten fighters between Daniel Lapin and Southampton man Lewis Edmondson. Both men are 11-0, with Team Usyk man Lapin owning a resume that includes victories over Octavio Pudivitr and Dylan Colin respectively.
Edmondson became British and Commonwealth champion via his defeat of former European champion Dan Azeez last year and he defended his Commonwealth crown against Oluwatosin Kejawa in March.
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Undefeated Ukrainian heavyweights added to big Wembley card
A strong heavyweight theme is emerging for the blockbuster Wembley Stadium night on Saturday July 19th when Daniel Dubois will attempt to topple Oleksandr Usyk and become undisputed world champion. On what will be a historic night whichever way it goes - it is the first time an undisputed heavyweight collision has taken place on British soil - promoter Frank Warren recently revealed that with just over a month to go before punches are exchanged in the the national stadium will be packed. But the big bombs will not just be delivered by Dubois because, currently, there are a further two heavyweight showdowns on the undercard. There will be a clash of the unbeaten Ukrainians, with Andrii Novytskyi taking on Queensberry man Vladyslav Sirenko. Previously announced, two bridgerweight champions now operating up a weight will do battle. Lawrence Okolie, also a former cruiserweight world champion, will have his second fight at heavyweight against the dangerous South African Kevin Lerena.
Novytskyi, age 29 and with 15 straight wins on his clock, scored a first-round KO of Keith Rydell Mayes Jr in July last year and returned in Riyadh in December by outpointing Edgar Ramirez in what was his second appearance in Saudi Arabia.
Sirenko, age 30, who like Novytskyi resides in the US, will be in his first title action since defeating Andrii Rudenko at the end of 2021. He also holds a first-round stoppage of Aleksandr Ustinov earlier that year in Paris.
Lerena, of course, is remembered on these shores for his epic encounter with Dubois for the WBA regular world title at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in late 2022. Dubois was caught early in the first round, injured himself on the way down, then touched canvas a further two times in the opener before gathering his poise and stopping his man in the third. The 33-year-old, also a former IBO champion at cruiserweight, became WBC champion at bridgerweight in October 2024 following Okolie relinquishing the belt. He was previously the interim champion following his victory over Senad Gashi. Okolie, 32, introduced himself in the marquee division with a blistering first round stoppage of Hussein Muhamed last December at Wembley Arena.
Dropping down in weight to light heavy, Wembley will host another battle of unbeaten fighters between Daniel Lapin and Southampton man Lewis Edmondson. Both men are 11-0, with Team Usyk man Lapin owning a resume that includes victories over Octavio Pudivitr and Dylan Colin respectively.
Edmondson became British and Commonwealth champion via his defeat of former European champion Dan Azeez last year and he defended his Commonwealth crown against Oluwatosin Kejawa in March.
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