Crawford: "my goal is to remind the world I am the best fighter on the planet" |
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WBO welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs), will look to finish 2022 on a high note as he takes on David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs). The fight takes place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on December 10th and will be broadcast live on pay-per-view. Crawford is back in his hometown, fresh off his training camp in Colorado, Springs, and he’s eager to show the world why he’s the best fighter in boxing. Here is what Crawford had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with David Avanesyan, fight on BLK Prime at home, and more:
On his recent training camp:
“It is business as usual. It’s great to have a fight date and a goal to work toward. I have a solid group of guys who are pushing me every single day, and we had a close-knit community during camp. This was one of my best camps, and I am motivated to put on a show for my fans in Omaha, who have had my back from the start of my career."
On his matchup with David Avanesyan:
“David Avanesyan is a good fighter. He’s on a good winning streak, and beat a guy in the U.K., in Josh Kelly who people thought was going to be a star. I have to train like I am facing King Kong on December 10th, because Avanesyan has everything to gain and nothing to lose. I know he is going to bring everything on December 10th, so I’m not looking past him. This will be the best Avanesyan, so I have to be the best Terence Crawford."
On what a win will do for his career:
“My goal is to remind the world that I am the best fighter on the planet so everyone needs to tune in December 10th on this new BLK Prime PPV platform. I am fighting not just to be the best, but to give fighters fair and equitable treatment in negotiations moving forward."
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Crawford: "my goal is to remind the world I am the best fighter on the planet"
WBO welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs), will look to finish 2022 on a high note as he takes on David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs). The fight takes place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on December 10th and will be broadcast live on pay-per-view. Crawford is back in his hometown, fresh off his training camp in Colorado, Springs, and he’s eager to show the world why he’s the best fighter in boxing. Here is what Crawford had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with David Avanesyan, fight on BLK Prime at home, and more:
On his recent training camp:
“It is business as usual. It’s great to have a fight date and a goal to work toward. I have a solid group of guys who are pushing me every single day, and we had a close-knit community during camp. This was one of my best camps, and I am motivated to put on a show for my fans in Omaha, who have had my back from the start of my career."
On his matchup with David Avanesyan:
“David Avanesyan is a good fighter. He’s on a good winning streak, and beat a guy in the U.K., in Josh Kelly who people thought was going to be a star. I have to train like I am facing King Kong on December 10th, because Avanesyan has everything to gain and nothing to lose. I know he is going to bring everything on December 10th, so I’m not looking past him. This will be the best Avanesyan, so I have to be the best Terence Crawford."
On what a win will do for his career:
“My goal is to remind the world that I am the best fighter on the planet so everyone needs to tune in December 10th on this new BLK Prime PPV platform. I am fighting not just to be the best, but to give fighters fair and equitable treatment in negotiations moving forward."
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A few words with Teofimo Lopez in advance of the Sandor Martin fight |
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Brooklyn native Teofimo Lopez, the former lightweight king and current junior welterweight contender, kicked off fight week 100 stories above Manhattan. Lopez takes on Spanish southpaw Sandor Martin in a ten-round main event this Saturday, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Four days from his first main event at MSG's "big room," Lopez went face to face with Martin at Edge at Hudson Yards, the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Lopez (17-1, 13 KOs) captured his first world title at Madison Square Garden in December 2019, knocking out Richard Commey in two rounds. He unified the lightweight division with his October 2020 decision over pound-for-pound great Vasiliy Lomachenko and hopes to repeat the feat at junior welterweight. Lopez made his junior welterweight debut in August with a seventh-round stoppage over Pedro Campa. Martin (40-2, 13 KOs) has won 11 straight fights, including a 2021 upset over four-weight world champion Mikey Garcia.
This is what Lopez had to say on Tuesday, 1,000 feet above Midtown Manhattan (New York City):
“This means everything to me. I won my first world title at Madison Square Garden. Who can say that? It’s always been a dream of mine since I was a kid. I always heard from Frank Sinatra himself, ‘If you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere,’ and what better place than the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden. To me, I believe that’s where legends are born – they are not made there, but they are born there.”
On last time fighting at Madison Square Garden vs. Richard Commey:
“That was three years ago, before the pandemic and all of those things that happened, but honestly, I’m so grateful for it. The Arena was packed that night and you could hear everyone from New York, from all different parts – East Coast and West Coast – just coming out with support, and even from Ghana. He was the champion at that time. For the ring walk, I was literally jumping around and looking around the whole arena absorbing and taking it all in – enjoying the moment. I’m a showstopper. I’m a performer. And at the end of it, fighting at Madison Square Garden, you’re going to see that.”
On first time headlining at Madison Square Garden:
“This is a huge moment for me. This is a moment of a lifetime. This is equivalent to my first world title. These are the things I’m really looking forward to. This is my home. My hometown, my home field, and we are really looking forward to putting on a show for everyone on December 10th.”
On favorite Garden moment:
“They’re all my favorites, but it was my fifth fight, and I believe my second time fighting at The Garden against Ronald Rivas. This is when my name really started to pop. It was my first time fighting in the big room at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks play. It was the undercard of Terence Crawford vs. Felix Diaz, and I just set this guy up perfectly – it was so nice. I dipped, dipped, and rolled, and I hit him with a mean hook and just put him down perfectly. It was a perfectly placed punch. I felt at that moment when I looked at him that I could have had some coffee before I threw the punch. It just felt like slow motion at that moment. It was right there I believe where the Takeover turned into full effect and at what better place than Madison Square Garden."
Lopez-Martin tops a televised quadruple-header airing immediately after the Heisman Trophy Ceremony at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+. Heavyweight Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson aims for his 13th straight knockout against the battle-tested Jerry “Slugger” Forrest, Puerto Rican junior middleweight Xander Zayas steps up in class against 28-fight veteran Alexis Salazar, and 2021 Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis looks to jump start his world title ambitions in a lightweight duel versus Juan Carlos Burgos.
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A few words with Teofimo Lopez in advance of the Sandor Martin fight
Brooklyn native Teofimo Lopez, the former lightweight king and current junior welterweight contender, kicked off fight week 100 stories above Manhattan. Lopez takes on Spanish southpaw Sandor Martin in a ten-round main event this Saturday, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Four days from his first main event at MSG's "big room," Lopez went face to face with Martin at Edge at Hudson Yards, the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Lopez (17-1, 13 KOs) captured his first world title at Madison Square Garden in December 2019, knocking out Richard Commey in two rounds. He unified the lightweight division with his October 2020 decision over pound-for-pound great Vasiliy Lomachenko and hopes to repeat the feat at junior welterweight. Lopez made his junior welterweight debut in August with a seventh-round stoppage over Pedro Campa. Martin (40-2, 13 KOs) has won 11 straight fights, including a 2021 upset over four-weight world champion Mikey Garcia.
This is what Lopez had to say on Tuesday, 1,000 feet above Midtown Manhattan (New York City):
“This means everything to me. I won my first world title at Madison Square Garden. Who can say that? It’s always been a dream of mine since I was a kid. I always heard from Frank Sinatra himself, ‘If you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere,’ and what better place than the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden. To me, I believe that’s where legends are born – they are not made there, but they are born there.”
On last time fighting at Madison Square Garden vs. Richard Commey:
“That was three years ago, before the pandemic and all of those things that happened, but honestly, I’m so grateful for it. The Arena was packed that night and you could hear everyone from New York, from all different parts – East Coast and West Coast – just coming out with support, and even from Ghana. He was the champion at that time. For the ring walk, I was literally jumping around and looking around the whole arena absorbing and taking it all in – enjoying the moment. I’m a showstopper. I’m a performer. And at the end of it, fighting at Madison Square Garden, you’re going to see that.”
On first time headlining at Madison Square Garden:
“This is a huge moment for me. This is a moment of a lifetime. This is equivalent to my first world title. These are the things I’m really looking forward to. This is my home. My hometown, my home field, and we are really looking forward to putting on a show for everyone on December 10th.”
On favorite Garden moment:
“They’re all my favorites, but it was my fifth fight, and I believe my second time fighting at The Garden against Ronald Rivas. This is when my name really started to pop. It was my first time fighting in the big room at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks play. It was the undercard of Terence Crawford vs. Felix Diaz, and I just set this guy up perfectly – it was so nice. I dipped, dipped, and rolled, and I hit him with a mean hook and just put him down perfectly. It was a perfectly placed punch. I felt at that moment when I looked at him that I could have had some coffee before I threw the punch. It just felt like slow motion at that moment. It was right there I believe where the Takeover turned into full effect and at what better place than Madison Square Garden."
Lopez-Martin tops a televised quadruple-header airing immediately after the Heisman Trophy Ceremony at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+. Heavyweight Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson aims for his 13th straight knockout against the battle-tested Jerry “Slugger” Forrest, Puerto Rican junior middleweight Xander Zayas steps up in class against 28-fight veteran Alexis Salazar, and 2021 Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis looks to jump start his world title ambitions in a lightweight duel versus Juan Carlos Burgos.
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Rupprecht has soft title defense set for this weekend |
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Rocío “La Bebé” Gaspar of Peru will challenge Germany's Tina Rupprecht for the WBC minimumweight title in Heilbronn, Germany, on December 10th. Gaspar is 12-1 but has zero wins against any opponent with a winning record. Her lone loss came in a bid for the WBA 102-pound title. Afer that loss, she took off nearly six years before coming back with a soft win. Rupprecht (11-0-1) has not fought since July 2021. Before traveling to Germany, Gaspar spoke with the Peruvian media about the tough confrontation she will have: "With all the desire and excitement to be in Germany. This is the WBC minimumweight title, it will be a dream come true to bring it back home. The champion is a super-fast opponent, with good footwork. We have already analyzed her and will be able to work based on that. We are very prepared for this challenge”.
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Rupprecht has soft title defense set for this weekend
Rocío “La Bebé” Gaspar of Peru will challenge Germany's Tina Rupprecht for the WBC minimumweight title in Heilbronn, Germany, on December 10th. Gaspar is 12-1 but has zero wins against any opponent with a winning record. Her lone loss came in a bid for the WBA 102-pound title. Afer that loss, she took off nearly six years before coming back with a soft win. Rupprecht (11-0-1) has not fought since July 2021. Before traveling to Germany, Gaspar spoke with the Peruvian media about the tough confrontation she will have: "With all the desire and excitement to be in Germany. This is the WBC minimumweight title, it will be a dream come true to bring it back home. The champion is a super-fast opponent, with good footwork. We have already analyzed her and will be able to work based on that. We are very prepared for this challenge”.
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Rashidi Ellis looking forward to being an active boxer |
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On January 7, 2023, welterweight Rashidi Ellis (24-0) will face Venezuelan-based Roiman Villa (25-1) on the Washington D.C. pay-per-view show headlined by Gervonta "Tank" Davis. After a frustrating 2021 that saw him have zero fights, Ellis got one win in 2022 and is lookinh forward to a more productive 2022 with Premiere Boxing Champions. Here is what Ellis had to say at a press conference earlier this week: “I’m excited to be back. I hear I’m facing a tough fighter, so I’m just motivated to be back in a tough fight. I’m [ready to] kick some ass on January 7th. Now I get to showcase my talent and be more active. The more active I am, the better Rashidi Ellis that you’re going to see... “I’m just training hard and getting ready for a big fight. I’m like a kid going to the park when it’s time to fight... The goal is to take over the division in 2023. It starts with this fight. I just have to be ready for my opponent, because I’m sure he’s going to be extremely motivated, just like I am. We were frustrated with some of the time off, but we just kept training and doing what we had to do... I just have to take it one fight at a time and display my talent. My great boxing ability, my IQ and my speed is going to let me pick my opponent apart.”
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Rashidi Ellis looking forward to being an active boxer
On January 7, 2023, welterweight Rashidi Ellis (24-0) will face Venezuelan-based Roiman Villa (25-1) on the Washington D.C. pay-per-view show headlined by Gervonta "Tank" Davis. After a frustrating 2021 that saw him have zero fights, Ellis got one win in 2022 and is lookinh forward to a more productive 2022 with Premiere Boxing Champions. Here is what Ellis had to say at a press conference earlier this week: “I’m excited to be back. I hear I’m facing a tough fighter, so I’m just motivated to be back in a tough fight. I’m [ready to] kick some ass on January 7th. Now I get to showcase my talent and be more active. The more active I am, the better Rashidi Ellis that you’re going to see... “I’m just training hard and getting ready for a big fight. I’m like a kid going to the park when it’s time to fight... The goal is to take over the division in 2023. It starts with this fight. I just have to be ready for my opponent, because I’m sure he’s going to be extremely motivated, just like I am. We were frustrated with some of the time off, but we just kept training and doing what we had to do... I just have to take it one fight at a time and display my talent. My great boxing ability, my IQ and my speed is going to let me pick my opponent apart.”
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Cris Cyborg to fight on Saturday's PPV |
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Brazilian mixerd martial arts superstar Cris Cyborg will make her U.S. boxing debut at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on December 10th. Cyborg is set to square off against Gabrielle Holloway (0-2) on a pay-per-vew broadcast headlined by Terence “Bud” Crawford's WBO welterweight title defense against vs. David Avanesyan. Here is what Cyborg (1-1 as a boxing pro) had to say about her recent training camp, her matchup with Gabby Halloway, fighting on BLK Prime PPV, and more.
On her recent training camp:
“Things are going great. Boxing is a lot different than MMA, but the hard work stays consistent. The biggest difference is the time. The rounds go so fast, I only have two minutes to win the round. So, the big thing I worked on is focusing on starting quickly. I have given this camp my all, and I am expecting to win.”
On her matchup with Gabby Holloway:
“I am fighting a tough opponent. Gabby Halloway has never been stopped and fought someone I knew in Raquel Miller. She hasn't been the most active but has been around the game for a long time, and has more experience than me, as a pro boxer. I am not overlooking her at all. I want to keep up a good pace and apply a lot of pressure.”
On what a win will do for her career:
“I want to be able to fight against the big names in the sport of boxing. I want to compete and challenge myself against the best of this era, and to do so it all starts on a win on December 10th. A win puts me in a great position.”
On fighting on BLK Prime PPV:
“I was a part of women's MMA when it was a new thing, and BLK Prime gives me the same feeling as some of the great companies like Strikeforce, when I was on my rise. I want to headline a card on BLK Prime in the future and I am excited that they are allowing the fighters to take control of their career. The fans must support this event, and bring in a new age of boxing.”
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Cris Cyborg to fight on Saturday's PPV
Brazilian mixerd martial arts superstar Cris Cyborg will make her U.S. boxing debut at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on December 10th. Cyborg is set to square off against Gabrielle Holloway (0-2) on a pay-per-vew broadcast headlined by Terence “Bud” Crawford's WBO welterweight title defense against vs. David Avanesyan. Here is what Cyborg (1-1 as a boxing pro) had to say about her recent training camp, her matchup with Gabby Halloway, fighting on BLK Prime PPV, and more.
On her recent training camp:
“Things are going great. Boxing is a lot different than MMA, but the hard work stays consistent. The biggest difference is the time. The rounds go so fast, I only have two minutes to win the round. So, the big thing I worked on is focusing on starting quickly. I have given this camp my all, and I am expecting to win.”
On her matchup with Gabby Holloway:
“I am fighting a tough opponent. Gabby Halloway has never been stopped and fought someone I knew in Raquel Miller. She hasn't been the most active but has been around the game for a long time, and has more experience than me, as a pro boxer. I am not overlooking her at all. I want to keep up a good pace and apply a lot of pressure.”
On what a win will do for her career:
“I want to be able to fight against the big names in the sport of boxing. I want to compete and challenge myself against the best of this era, and to do so it all starts on a win on December 10th. A win puts me in a great position.”
On fighting on BLK Prime PPV:
“I was a part of women's MMA when it was a new thing, and BLK Prime gives me the same feeling as some of the great companies like Strikeforce, when I was on my rise. I want to headline a card on BLK Prime in the future and I am excited that they are allowing the fighters to take control of their career. The fans must support this event, and bring in a new age of boxing.”
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Late result: a win for Marques Valle |
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Marques Valle DQ2 Luis Midyael Sanchez... This past Friday night in Plant City, Florida, junior middleweight Marques Valle remained undefeated with a disqualification win over Luis Midyael Sanchez (9-4) in the second round of their scheduled six-round bout. Valle, managed by Split-T Management, was dominant in the five-plus minute fight, to the point where Sanchez was constantly holding. Sanchez was deducted two points in the second round. He did not get the message as he continued to grab Valle, and finally the referee saw enough and pulled the plug on the fight at 2:22. Valle, who had his knockout sreak stopped, is now 7-0 with six knockouts. The 23 year-old native of Wesley Chapel, Florida is promoted by Pro Box Promotions.
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Late result: a win for Marques Valle
Marques Valle DQ2 Luis Midyael Sanchez... This past Friday night in Plant City, Florida, junior middleweight Marques Valle remained undefeated with a disqualification win over Luis Midyael Sanchez (9-4) in the second round of their scheduled six-round bout. Valle, managed by Split-T Management, was dominant in the five-plus minute fight, to the point where Sanchez was constantly holding. Sanchez was deducted two points in the second round. He did not get the message as he continued to grab Valle, and finally the referee saw enough and pulled the plug on the fight at 2:22. Valle, who had his knockout sreak stopped, is now 7-0 with six knockouts. The 23 year-old native of Wesley Chapel, Florida is promoted by Pro Box Promotions.
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Late results from Philadelphia |
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Jayon Timmin W4 Juan Gutierrez... This past Saturday night, Jayon Timmin got off the deck to win a four-round unanimous decision over tough Juan Gutierrez in a bantamweight bout in front of a near-capacity crowd at the Grand Yesha Ballroom in Philadelphia. After a close first round, Gutierrez scored a knockdown in round two by landing a hard right hand that put Timmin on the canvas. Timmin was able to right himself and shake off being put down. He was urged on by a loud supporting section, and came back to take the final two rounds, and get the decision by scores of 38-37 on all cards. Timmin of Philadelphia is 1-0. Gutierrez of Estieli, Nicaragua is 0-3.
MORE RESULTS
Erron Peterson remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Dewayne Williams in a middleweight contest. Peterson scored an early knockdown as he dropped Williams in the opening frame with a left hand. Peterson of Philadelphia won by tallies of 39-36 on all cards and is now 3-0. Williams of Philadelphia is 3-6-1.
Brendan O'Callaghan won a four-round unanimous decision over Antonio Allen in a junior middleweight contest. O'Callaghan of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is 4-1-1 for his career so far. Allen of Philadelphia is 1-14-1.
Jalique Holden scored a second-round stoppage over Nathan Benichou in a scheduled four-round lightweight bout. The time of the stoppage was 56 seconds for Holden of Wilmington, Delaware and is now 3-0. Benichou of Puebla, Mexico is 2-14-1.
Najeem Johns stopped Anthony Young in the second round of their four-round welterweight fight. The time of the stoppage was 2:22 for Johns of Darby, PA and is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Young of Philadelphia is 0-6.
Heavyweight's Romelle Terrell and Jerome AIken battled to a four-round draw. Terrell of Chapel Hill, NC was making his pro debut. Aiken of Annapolis, Maryland is 0-6-1.
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Late results from Philadelphia
Jayon Timmin W4 Juan Gutierrez... This past Saturday night, Jayon Timmin got off the deck to win a four-round unanimous decision over tough Juan Gutierrez in a bantamweight bout in front of a near-capacity crowd at the Grand Yesha Ballroom in Philadelphia. After a close first round, Gutierrez scored a knockdown in round two by landing a hard right hand that put Timmin on the canvas. Timmin was able to right himself and shake off being put down. He was urged on by a loud supporting section, and came back to take the final two rounds, and get the decision by scores of 38-37 on all cards. Timmin of Philadelphia is 1-0. Gutierrez of Estieli, Nicaragua is 0-3.
MORE RESULTS
Erron Peterson remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Dewayne Williams in a middleweight contest. Peterson scored an early knockdown as he dropped Williams in the opening frame with a left hand. Peterson of Philadelphia won by tallies of 39-36 on all cards and is now 3-0. Williams of Philadelphia is 3-6-1.
Brendan O'Callaghan won a four-round unanimous decision over Antonio Allen in a junior middleweight contest. O'Callaghan of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is 4-1-1 for his career so far. Allen of Philadelphia is 1-14-1.
Jalique Holden scored a second-round stoppage over Nathan Benichou in a scheduled four-round lightweight bout. The time of the stoppage was 56 seconds for Holden of Wilmington, Delaware and is now 3-0. Benichou of Puebla, Mexico is 2-14-1.
Najeem Johns stopped Anthony Young in the second round of their four-round welterweight fight. The time of the stoppage was 2:22 for Johns of Darby, PA and is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Young of Philadelphia is 0-6.
Heavyweight's Romelle Terrell and Jerome AIken battled to a four-round draw. Terrell of Chapel Hill, NC was making his pro debut. Aiken of Annapolis, Maryland is 0-6-1.
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Mills Lane, 1937-2022 |
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Hall of Fame referee Mills Lane has passed away at his home in Reno, Nevada. Lane achieved a level that very few people ascend to in the contentious and self-serving world of boxing: Lane was universally loved and respected by everyone fortunate enough to come in contact with him. Arguably the greatest referee of modern times, Lane passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and two sons. As a boxer, Lane was an NCAA champion who reached the U.S. Olympic trials in 1960. But it was as a referee that Lane had a historical impact on boxing. The championship fights he officiated are too numerous to discuss, but here are a few: In 1972, Lane oversaw Muhammad Ali's win over world light heavyweight champion Bob Foster. In 1982, he officiated the historic heavyweight fight in which Larry Holmes stopped Gerry Cooney. In 1993, he refereed an outdoor heavyweight championship fight between Riddick Bowe and Evander Holyfield that was disrupted when a parachutist landed in the ring. Lane maintained order as best as anyone could have, and the fight was able to resume, with Holyfield regaining the championship. In 1994, Lane was confronted with an unprecedented situation when, with a vacant heavyweight championship at stake, Oliver McCall suffered a mid-fight emotional breakdown. McCall began crying and allowing Lennox Lewis to punch him at will, forcing Lane to choose the correct moment to stop a significant sporting event for the mental and emotional (as well as the physical) safety of the distraught McCall. In 1997, Lane disqualified an out-of-control Mike Tyson after Tyson infamously bit off a piece of Holyfield's ear. Lane's quick thinking, decisiveness and strong moral compass enabled him to see these situations through in the most dignifiable manner possible given the insane circumstances that were suddenly thrust upon him. Lane, however, was much more than a great referee. He was also a law school graduate, a criminal prosecutor and eventually, a district court judge in Nevada's Washoe County. After he stopped refereeing, he became a television personality and boxing promoter until his health forced him into retirement. Lane rarely appeared in public after suffering a stroke in 2002, but was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2013. Boxingtalk sends it deepest condolences to the family and many friends of the great Mills Lane.
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Mills Lane, 1937-2022
Hall of Fame referee Mills Lane has passed away at his home in Reno, Nevada. Lane achieved a level that very few people ascend to in the contentious and self-serving world of boxing: Lane was universally loved and respected by everyone fortunate enough to come in contact with him. Arguably the greatest referee of modern times, Lane passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and two sons. As a boxer, Lane was an NCAA champion who reached the U.S. Olympic trials in 1960. But it was as a referee that Lane had a historical impact on boxing. The championship fights he officiated are too numerous to discuss, but here are a few: In 1972, Lane oversaw Muhammad Ali's win over world light heavyweight champion Bob Foster. In 1982, he officiated the historic heavyweight fight in which Larry Holmes stopped Gerry Cooney. In 1993, he refereed an outdoor heavyweight championship fight between Riddick Bowe and Evander Holyfield that was disrupted when a parachutist landed in the ring. Lane maintained order as best as anyone could have, and the fight was able to resume, with Holyfield regaining the championship. In 1994, Lane was confronted with an unprecedented situation when, with a vacant heavyweight championship at stake, Oliver McCall suffered a mid-fight emotional breakdown. McCall began crying and allowing Lennox Lewis to punch him at will, forcing Lane to choose the correct moment to stop a significant sporting event for the mental and emotional (as well as the physical) safety of the distraught McCall. In 1997, Lane disqualified an out-of-control Mike Tyson after Tyson infamously bit off a piece of Holyfield's ear. Lane's quick thinking, decisiveness and strong moral compass enabled him to see these situations through in the most dignifiable manner possible given the insane circumstances that were suddenly thrust upon him. Lane, however, was much more than a great referee. He was also a law school graduate, a criminal prosecutor and eventually, a district court judge in Nevada's Washoe County. After he stopped refereeing, he became a television personality and boxing promoter until his health forced him into retirement. Lane rarely appeared in public after suffering a stroke in 2002, but was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2013. Boxingtalk sends it deepest condolences to the family and many friends of the great Mills Lane.
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Frank Warren reviews Queensberry's heavyweight situation |
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The Tottenham Hotspur stadium [in north London] was turned into our very own version of winter wonderland on Saturday. Despite all the negativity, the naysayers and predictions of a half-full stadium, the pulling power of [WBC heavyweight champion] Tyson Fury was there for all to see on a nippy night in North London. There were 60,000 amazing fans there to see Tyson overcome his old rival Derek Chisora and, no, we were not dishing out freebies or – unlike some others – making use of a seat-filling agency that offers tickets at a tiny fraction of their face value. What you saw was what we sold, which was a remarkable number given the current financial climate and it being probably the first event of this nature staged outdoors in December. The atmosphere was simply sizzling and Tyson said he was overwhelmed by the reception he received during his entrance. It just goes to show what a huge draw Tyson has become and I believe he is now a true sporting icon, who the public so easily relate to because he is such an open book.
So, while the event was an unqualified success, the occasion also counted as a big nod towards 2023 and what comes next. There really was a lot on the line.
First and foremost, having shelved retirement plans, Tyson wanted and needed to fight and get some rounds in. Our job was to provide the showcase, no matter that the timing wasn’t ideal. As [IBF/WBO/WBA heavyweight champion] Oleksandr Usyk’s team publicly confirmed on this visit, we did plan on staging the undisputed fight this side of Christmas, but the unified champion asked for more time due to his second Anthony Joshua fight being delayed.
Then, as everyone will be aware, we spent many weeks doing our utmost to get Joshua in the ring with Tyson but, ultimately, two sides have to want the fight and we didn’t have wriggle room with the date because plans were and are already in place for the Usyk fight in February-March.
So we were left with finding Tyson a top 15 and active opponent with good name recognition to create public interest. Derek was the obvious and right candidate for the job.
In his last six fights he had close [losses] or wins against the likes of Joseph Parker (twice), Artur Szpilka, David Price, Kubrat Pulev and Usyk. Before that there were his two close encounters with Dillian Whyte and a win over Carlos Takam.
Even though Tyson was a convincing winner, I strongly believe it would have been a similar outcome had Joshua stepped up to the plate. Derek did better in there than Dillian Whyte did in April and clearly takes a better shot than Deontay Wilder.
The main thing is that Tyson got through without any mishaps and now a massive 2023 is in store for the heavyweight division. We now need to tie up the loose ends of the Usyk fight and then, all things being well, [WBO interim title holder] Joe Joyce will come into play. I strongly believe next year will be one where the sport of boxing puts its best foot forward and returns to the forefront, with the biggest and best fights being made.
After an early scare, [WBA regular title holder] Daniel Dubois kept himself right in the mix with a successful first defence of his WBA world championship against a good fighter in Kevin Lerena.
I think we all probably feared the worst when he got caught on top of the head in the first round and then struggled to keep his balance until the bell rang. Big credit to Daniel for hanging in there when the cards were stacked against him. There was an issue with his knee, but he got to grips with it all in the third round and finished off Lerena with some brutal shots.
Daniel is in the game now and there is no turning back. When he is fit and firing again we will get him back in against top 10 opposition. This is the company he needs to keep to get ready for a shot at the big guns of the division.
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Frank Warren reviews Queensberry's heavyweight situation
The Tottenham Hotspur stadium [in north London] was turned into our very own version of winter wonderland on Saturday. Despite all the negativity, the naysayers and predictions of a half-full stadium, the pulling power of [WBC heavyweight champion] Tyson Fury was there for all to see on a nippy night in North London. There were 60,000 amazing fans there to see Tyson overcome his old rival Derek Chisora and, no, we were not dishing out freebies or – unlike some others – making use of a seat-filling agency that offers tickets at a tiny fraction of their face value. What you saw was what we sold, which was a remarkable number given the current financial climate and it being probably the first event of this nature staged outdoors in December. The atmosphere was simply sizzling and Tyson said he was overwhelmed by the reception he received during his entrance. It just goes to show what a huge draw Tyson has become and I believe he is now a true sporting icon, who the public so easily relate to because he is such an open book.
So, while the event was an unqualified success, the occasion also counted as a big nod towards 2023 and what comes next. There really was a lot on the line.
First and foremost, having shelved retirement plans, Tyson wanted and needed to fight and get some rounds in. Our job was to provide the showcase, no matter that the timing wasn’t ideal. As [IBF/WBO/WBA heavyweight champion] Oleksandr Usyk’s team publicly confirmed on this visit, we did plan on staging the undisputed fight this side of Christmas, but the unified champion asked for more time due to his second Anthony Joshua fight being delayed.
Then, as everyone will be aware, we spent many weeks doing our utmost to get Joshua in the ring with Tyson but, ultimately, two sides have to want the fight and we didn’t have wriggle room with the date because plans were and are already in place for the Usyk fight in February-March.
So we were left with finding Tyson a top 15 and active opponent with good name recognition to create public interest. Derek was the obvious and right candidate for the job.
In his last six fights he had close [losses] or wins against the likes of Joseph Parker (twice), Artur Szpilka, David Price, Kubrat Pulev and Usyk. Before that there were his two close encounters with Dillian Whyte and a win over Carlos Takam.
Even though Tyson was a convincing winner, I strongly believe it would have been a similar outcome had Joshua stepped up to the plate. Derek did better in there than Dillian Whyte did in April and clearly takes a better shot than Deontay Wilder.
The main thing is that Tyson got through without any mishaps and now a massive 2023 is in store for the heavyweight division. We now need to tie up the loose ends of the Usyk fight and then, all things being well, [WBO interim title holder] Joe Joyce will come into play. I strongly believe next year will be one where the sport of boxing puts its best foot forward and returns to the forefront, with the biggest and best fights being made.
After an early scare, [WBA regular title holder] Daniel Dubois kept himself right in the mix with a successful first defence of his WBA world championship against a good fighter in Kevin Lerena.
I think we all probably feared the worst when he got caught on top of the head in the first round and then struggled to keep his balance until the bell rang. Big credit to Daniel for hanging in there when the cards were stacked against him. There was an issue with his knee, but he got to grips with it all in the third round and finished off Lerena with some brutal shots.
Daniel is in the game now and there is no turning back. When he is fit and firing again we will get him back in against top 10 opposition. This is the company he needs to keep to get ready for a shot at the big guns of the division.
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WBA calls for Baumgardner vs. Choi unification purse bid |
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IBF/ WBO/ WBC 130-pound champion Alycia Baumgardner (pictured) is moving forward to unifying the world super featherweight championship with her WBA counterpart, Hyun Mi Choi. In an unusual move, the WBA announced it will conduct a purse bid on December 12th, in Orlando, Florida at the Caribe Royale Hotel as part of the WBA convention. Purse bids are usually reserved for mandatory contenders and usually are not used for unification fights. The WBA set the bidding minimum amount at US $120,000.00, with the winninbg bid to be split 50% for each woman of them due to their mutual status as champions. Choi has a record of 20-0-1 with 5 knockouts. Baumgardner, who recently defeated Mikaela Mayer by split decision to add Mayer's two titles to her collection, has a career mark of 13-1 with 7 KOs.
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WBA calls for Baumgardner vs. Choi unification purse bid
IBF/ WBO/ WBC 130-pound champion Alycia Baumgardner (pictured) is moving forward to unifying the world super featherweight championship with her WBA counterpart, Hyun Mi Choi. In an unusual move, the WBA announced it will conduct a purse bid on December 12th, in Orlando, Florida at the Caribe Royale Hotel as part of the WBA convention. Purse bids are usually reserved for mandatory contenders and usually are not used for unification fights. The WBA set the bidding minimum amount at US $120,000.00, with the winninbg bid to be split 50% for each woman of them due to their mutual status as champions. Choi has a record of 20-0-1 with 5 knockouts. Baumgardner, who recently defeated Mikaela Mayer by split decision to add Mayer's two titles to her collection, has a career mark of 13-1 with 7 KOs.
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Tank Davis vs. Hector L. Garcia presser quotes |
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Undefeated Gervonta “Tank” Davis went face to face with unbeaten WBA 130-pound champion Héctor Luis García at a press conference on Monday before they meet for Davis’ WBA regular lightweight title on Saturday, January 7th headlining a pay-per-view event at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Davis has established himself as one of boxing’s hottest attractions, capturing one world title and other secondary titles through three divisions. He will need to dispatch the dangerous and streaking García to pave the way for the recently announced blockbuster clash against unbeaten star Ryan Garcia in the spring of 2023.
Monday’s press conference also featured fighters who will be competing on the pay-per-view telecast: unbeaten Jaron “Boots” Ennis, who faces Karen Chukhadzhian for the IBF interim welterweight title, unbeaten welterweight Rashidi Ellis, who duels the hard-hitting Roiman Villa in a twelve-round fight, and undefeated former two-division champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade who clashes with Maryland's Demond Nicholson in a ten-round super middleweight fight opening the pay-per-view. Here is what the fighters had to say Monday from The Hotel Washington:
GERVONTA DAVIS
“This is another event that we’re excited for. I’ve been working hard and I appreciate everybody that’s come out today. This is a stacked undercard, it almost feels like I’m back in the amateurs with all these great fighters.
“We’re gonna go back into training camp right after today because we’re not sleeping on this guy. I know we have two fights lined up, but I’m only focused on this one. I’m ready to go through everybody that’s in my way.
“This is really important for me. It’s huge to open up the opportunity for other fighters to showcase their skills on the big stage. When you make your mark in the sport, it’s about coming back and showing other people that it can happen for them.
“This is just me trying to get over that hump. I don’t think of it as a dream come true. I’m not where I want to be yet. This fight is the next step.
“It feels good to be back home. All the greats have fought here and now I get to come back home and put on a great event. I love getting everyone together to have a party. That’s what it is. We grind in the gym and a lot of people don’t see that, so when the big event comes, it’s time to show up.
“I’m just ready to shut everyone up. All the talking that’s going around, I just want to go in the ring and shut them all up.
“I’ve always been the guy who stays focused and knows that whoever is in front of me is a threat. We know that Garcia is coming. I’m watching him a lot. I know what they’re doing day in and day out.
“There are a lot of young fighters coming behind me and I just want to be able to give them the platform that they deserve.”
HECTOR LUIS GARCIA
“I’m very happy to be here in this position. I’ve worked extremely hard to make this my year. I’m going to make this a great show for the boxing fans and the Dominican Republic. My team is going to have me ready for this fight on January 7th.
“I’m not fazed by anything people say. I know who I am and I know what to do. My preparation has been so good that I’m going to be ready to give 100%.
“I know that I have the height advantage, but I can adapt myself to the rhythm of my opponent. I know that I’m facing one of the best fighters out there, but I’m fully confident I have what it takes to win.
“I’m taking my normal approach to this fight. I’m a great fighter too and I have Olympic experience. We have no reason to change our preparation for this fight.
“If I beat ‘Tank’ on January 7th, I’d be happy to go after a fight against Ryan Garcia. I don’t think he’s on the same level as me and Gervonta.
“I feel at home here. I’m sure that I’m going to get a lot of support for myself. Most importantly I’ll have my family here having my back.
“We’re coming to make this a battle. Whether it’s toe-to-toe or he wants to move and box, me and my trainer are ready. We trust each other and that goes a long way in fights like these.
“I want to make my name in this sport and make it last a lot longer after I’m around. I’m taking it one fight at a time, but I have big goals that I’m looking to reach.”
CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer
“This fight is important to us. We’re trying to take the hardest fights. Hector is coming to fight. He’s had two impressive wins and is a real world champion. This is a fight that we asked for. I always say that the road to success is through D.C., and now we’re here.
“We can’t sleep on Garcia. He’s got a great team and we’re going to be up for the task. Gervonta is going to make everyone remember him. We don’t talk, we just show y’all.
“The only thing on my mind is Hector Luis Garcia. He’s bringing a lot to the table. People know he’s the real deal. Hector is standing in front of us. We have so much pain and we need to release it before we go to the next level.
“They don’t want to give him his props, but that’s good. We’re from the mud and we know how to play in the mud.
“Gervonta is coming into the man that we’ve been training for years. We understand that this fight is the main fight toward the other fight. I’m talking to a grown man now. I’ve been with him for so many years, and it’s so amazing to see him go from a kid to a grown man.”
BOB SANTOS, Garcia’s Trainer
“We’re really thrilled to go against pound-for-pound one of the best fighters in the world. We’re excited about the opportunity.
“We haven’t done anything different than what we’ve done in the past. Everyone should really tune into this fight, because it’s going to be an all-time classic. At this point, Gervonta is the best 135-pounder in the world.
“This fight reminds me of Joel Casamayor vs. Diego Corrales and I’m expecting that kind of performance. I know that these fighters are going to bring the best out of each other.”
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Tank Davis vs. Hector L. Garcia presser quotes
Undefeated Gervonta “Tank” Davis went face to face with unbeaten WBA 130-pound champion Héctor Luis García at a press conference on Monday before they meet for Davis’ WBA regular lightweight title on Saturday, January 7th headlining a pay-per-view event at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Davis has established himself as one of boxing’s hottest attractions, capturing one world title and other secondary titles through three divisions. He will need to dispatch the dangerous and streaking García to pave the way for the recently announced blockbuster clash against unbeaten star Ryan Garcia in the spring of 2023.
Monday’s press conference also featured fighters who will be competing on the pay-per-view telecast: unbeaten Jaron “Boots” Ennis, who faces Karen Chukhadzhian for the IBF interim welterweight title, unbeaten welterweight Rashidi Ellis, who duels the hard-hitting Roiman Villa in a twelve-round fight, and undefeated former two-division champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade who clashes with Maryland's Demond Nicholson in a ten-round super middleweight fight opening the pay-per-view. Here is what the fighters had to say Monday from The Hotel Washington:
GERVONTA DAVIS
“This is another event that we’re excited for. I’ve been working hard and I appreciate everybody that’s come out today. This is a stacked undercard, it almost feels like I’m back in the amateurs with all these great fighters.
“We’re gonna go back into training camp right after today because we’re not sleeping on this guy. I know we have two fights lined up, but I’m only focused on this one. I’m ready to go through everybody that’s in my way.
“This is really important for me. It’s huge to open up the opportunity for other fighters to showcase their skills on the big stage. When you make your mark in the sport, it’s about coming back and showing other people that it can happen for them.
“This is just me trying to get over that hump. I don’t think of it as a dream come true. I’m not where I want to be yet. This fight is the next step.
“It feels good to be back home. All the greats have fought here and now I get to come back home and put on a great event. I love getting everyone together to have a party. That’s what it is. We grind in the gym and a lot of people don’t see that, so when the big event comes, it’s time to show up.
“I’m just ready to shut everyone up. All the talking that’s going around, I just want to go in the ring and shut them all up.
“I’ve always been the guy who stays focused and knows that whoever is in front of me is a threat. We know that Garcia is coming. I’m watching him a lot. I know what they’re doing day in and day out.
“There are a lot of young fighters coming behind me and I just want to be able to give them the platform that they deserve.”
HECTOR LUIS GARCIA
“I’m very happy to be here in this position. I’ve worked extremely hard to make this my year. I’m going to make this a great show for the boxing fans and the Dominican Republic. My team is going to have me ready for this fight on January 7th.
“I’m not fazed by anything people say. I know who I am and I know what to do. My preparation has been so good that I’m going to be ready to give 100%.
“I know that I have the height advantage, but I can adapt myself to the rhythm of my opponent. I know that I’m facing one of the best fighters out there, but I’m fully confident I have what it takes to win.
“I’m taking my normal approach to this fight. I’m a great fighter too and I have Olympic experience. We have no reason to change our preparation for this fight.
“If I beat ‘Tank’ on January 7th, I’d be happy to go after a fight against Ryan Garcia. I don’t think he’s on the same level as me and Gervonta.
“I feel at home here. I’m sure that I’m going to get a lot of support for myself. Most importantly I’ll have my family here having my back.
“We’re coming to make this a battle. Whether it’s toe-to-toe or he wants to move and box, me and my trainer are ready. We trust each other and that goes a long way in fights like these.
“I want to make my name in this sport and make it last a lot longer after I’m around. I’m taking it one fight at a time, but I have big goals that I’m looking to reach.”
CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer
“This fight is important to us. We’re trying to take the hardest fights. Hector is coming to fight. He’s had two impressive wins and is a real world champion. This is a fight that we asked for. I always say that the road to success is through D.C., and now we’re here.
“We can’t sleep on Garcia. He’s got a great team and we’re going to be up for the task. Gervonta is going to make everyone remember him. We don’t talk, we just show y’all.
“The only thing on my mind is Hector Luis Garcia. He’s bringing a lot to the table. People know he’s the real deal. Hector is standing in front of us. We have so much pain and we need to release it before we go to the next level.
“They don’t want to give him his props, but that’s good. We’re from the mud and we know how to play in the mud.
“Gervonta is coming into the man that we’ve been training for years. We understand that this fight is the main fight toward the other fight. I’m talking to a grown man now. I’ve been with him for so many years, and it’s so amazing to see him go from a kid to a grown man.”
BOB SANTOS, Garcia’s Trainer
“We’re really thrilled to go against pound-for-pound one of the best fighters in the world. We’re excited about the opportunity.
“We haven’t done anything different than what we’ve done in the past. Everyone should really tune into this fight, because it’s going to be an all-time classic. At this point, Gervonta is the best 135-pounder in the world.
“This fight reminds me of Joel Casamayor vs. Diego Corrales and I’m expecting that kind of performance. I know that these fighters are going to bring the best out of each other.”
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WBO orders Okolie to defend vs. Light |
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The WBO has ordered its cruiserweight champion, Lawrence Okolie (pictured), to make a mandatory defense against David Light of Australia. The parties were given twenty days to negotiate a deal before a purse bid is scheduled. Okolie, from London, is 18-0 and wis considered a real talent. However, he has run into a dispute with his promoter, Matchroom, and has not fought since February. Light, 20-0, has three quality wins since May.
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WBO orders Okolie to defend vs. Light
The WBO has ordered its cruiserweight champion, Lawrence Okolie (pictured), to make a mandatory defense against David Light of Australia. The parties were given twenty days to negotiate a deal before a purse bid is scheduled. Okolie, from London, is 18-0 and wis considered a real talent. However, he has run into a dispute with his promoter, Matchroom, and has not fought since February. Light, 20-0, has three quality wins since May.
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Andrade books super middleweight debut for Jan. 7th |
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Former two-division champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (pictured) steps into the ring for a ten-round super middleweight clash against Maryland native Demond Nicholson (26-4-1) on January 7th in Washington, D.C. as a supporting bout on the pay-per-view broadcast headlined by Gervonta "Tank" Davis vs. WBA 130-pound champion Hector Luis Garcia. Andrade (31-0) has held titles at 154 and 160 pounds but recently vacated the WBO middleweight title, which is now held by Janibek Alimkhanuly. Nicholson lost to Edgar Berlanga in 2021, but has won three straight since then
A 2008 U.S. Olympian from Providence, Rhode Island, Andrade embarks on a campaign to become a three-division world champion. The 34-year old captured the 154-pound title with a 2013 victory over Vanes Martirosyan and went on to defend the belt four times before moving up to middleweight. At 160, Andrade won a dominant decision over Walter Kautondokwa in October 2018 to win a vacant WBO title, before putting together a string of five consecutive title defenses, including most recently stopping Jason Quigley in two rounds in November 2021.
“My goal right now is to become a three-division world champion,” said Andrade. “Super middleweight is a stacked division with more characters to make some great fights for the fans. I hope Demond Nicholson has a safe camp and brings his very best to the table so that we can have a great showing on this card. I’m ready to display my talent and skill on my journey to becoming a three-division world champion.”
Nicholson's last ring action saw him stop Christopher Brooker in August. “This is a great opportunity for me to attack my dreams,” said Nicholson. “A win on January 7th is going to get me closer to accomplishing the goals I have in this lifetime. I am ready for anything my opponent is going to bring to the ring, so the fans should expect a great fight for as long as this one lasts.”
Here is what Andrade and Nicholson had to say at Monday's press conference:
DEMETRIUS ANDRADE
“I’m feeling good. This is a new journey. I’m looking to become a three-division champion. I’m thankful to have this opportunity to showcase my skill and talent on this beautiful card.
“At the end of the day, nothing guarantees a Canelo Alvarez fight. Right now I’m looking at Caleb Plant, David Benavidez and Jermall Charlo. I want all those big names.
“Showtime is a great place to be. I’ve had my journey through my boxing career and now I’m writing my own chapter. January 7th is an opportunity to do what I do best. There are a lot of great fights that can be made at 168 pounds and I’m looking to make them. This is a great position right now for me to make those fights.
“My experience and my amateur pedigree will be the difference. My IQ, my talent and my skill overall are going to be huge for me.
“I’m ready to tangle. We both said yes to the fight, and may the best man win. At the end of the day we’re both going to bring our best to the table.
“I’m looking to show that I’m the best. Let’s make this happen. There’s no more excuses. This fight is a stepping stone toward making those things happen and I’m grateful for the opportunity.
“I did my thing at 154 and 160 and now I want to move on to this journey at super middleweight and make it happen.”
DEMOND NICHOLSON
“This is probably the biggest fight of my career, so I’m just looking forward to seeing Andrade in that ring. It’s going to be a hell of a fight.
“I have to take advantage of his age. I’ve got the advantage with youth and I have to use that to help me in this fight.
“My home is 15 minutes away from here, so the support I’m going to receive is going to be drastic. It’s going to be full of my friends and family. It’s time to put on a show and really get my name in the books. This is really my chance.
“I’m 100% healthy right now. It’s time to really go full-fledged forward. I’m feeling great right now.
“This fight with Andrade is bigger than Benavidez if you look at it from boxing and skills wise. For me this is like fighting Canelo. It’s a big fight.
“For me it’s about working smarter and believing in myself and my team. I just have to go out there and do what I do best.”
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Andrade books super middleweight debut for Jan. 7th
Former two-division champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (pictured) steps into the ring for a ten-round super middleweight clash against Maryland native Demond Nicholson (26-4-1) on January 7th in Washington, D.C. as a supporting bout on the pay-per-view broadcast headlined by Gervonta "Tank" Davis vs. WBA 130-pound champion Hector Luis Garcia. Andrade (31-0) has held titles at 154 and 160 pounds but recently vacated the WBO middleweight title, which is now held by Janibek Alimkhanuly. Nicholson lost to Edgar Berlanga in 2021, but has won three straight since then
A 2008 U.S. Olympian from Providence, Rhode Island, Andrade embarks on a campaign to become a three-division world champion. The 34-year old captured the 154-pound title with a 2013 victory over Vanes Martirosyan and went on to defend the belt four times before moving up to middleweight. At 160, Andrade won a dominant decision over Walter Kautondokwa in October 2018 to win a vacant WBO title, before putting together a string of five consecutive title defenses, including most recently stopping Jason Quigley in two rounds in November 2021.
“My goal right now is to become a three-division world champion,” said Andrade. “Super middleweight is a stacked division with more characters to make some great fights for the fans. I hope Demond Nicholson has a safe camp and brings his very best to the table so that we can have a great showing on this card. I’m ready to display my talent and skill on my journey to becoming a three-division world champion.”
Nicholson's last ring action saw him stop Christopher Brooker in August. “This is a great opportunity for me to attack my dreams,” said Nicholson. “A win on January 7th is going to get me closer to accomplishing the goals I have in this lifetime. I am ready for anything my opponent is going to bring to the ring, so the fans should expect a great fight for as long as this one lasts.”
Here is what Andrade and Nicholson had to say at Monday's press conference:
DEMETRIUS ANDRADE
“I’m feeling good. This is a new journey. I’m looking to become a three-division champion. I’m thankful to have this opportunity to showcase my skill and talent on this beautiful card.
“At the end of the day, nothing guarantees a Canelo Alvarez fight. Right now I’m looking at Caleb Plant, David Benavidez and Jermall Charlo. I want all those big names.
“Showtime is a great place to be. I’ve had my journey through my boxing career and now I’m writing my own chapter. January 7th is an opportunity to do what I do best. There are a lot of great fights that can be made at 168 pounds and I’m looking to make them. This is a great position right now for me to make those fights.
“My experience and my amateur pedigree will be the difference. My IQ, my talent and my skill overall are going to be huge for me.
“I’m ready to tangle. We both said yes to the fight, and may the best man win. At the end of the day we’re both going to bring our best to the table.
“I’m looking to show that I’m the best. Let’s make this happen. There’s no more excuses. This fight is a stepping stone toward making those things happen and I’m grateful for the opportunity.
“I did my thing at 154 and 160 and now I want to move on to this journey at super middleweight and make it happen.”
DEMOND NICHOLSON
“This is probably the biggest fight of my career, so I’m just looking forward to seeing Andrade in that ring. It’s going to be a hell of a fight.
“I have to take advantage of his age. I’ve got the advantage with youth and I have to use that to help me in this fight.
“My home is 15 minutes away from here, so the support I’m going to receive is going to be drastic. It’s going to be full of my friends and family. It’s time to put on a show and really get my name in the books. This is really my chance.
“I’m 100% healthy right now. It’s time to really go full-fledged forward. I’m feeling great right now.
“This fight with Andrade is bigger than Benavidez if you look at it from boxing and skills wise. For me this is like fighting Canelo. It’s a big fight.
“For me it’s about working smarter and believing in myself and my team. I just have to go out there and do what I do best.”
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Golden Boy announces Dec. 17th show in L.A. area |
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Golden Boy Fight Night: LA Edition series will wrap up its 2022 run with welterweight Raúl “Cugar” Curiel (11-0, 9 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico facing Georgia’s Brad Solomon (29-5, 9 KOs). The scheduled ten-round scrap will take place on Saturday, December 17th at The Commerce Casino and Hotel in the Los Angeles area. The show will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT.
Providing chief support to the card, Mexicali, Mexico’s Diego De La Hoya (23-1, 11 KOs) will face Jose “El Torito” Gonzalez (23-10-1, 13 KOs) of Guadalajara in a ten-round featherweight fight. Also on the card, Monterrey, Mexico’s Aaron Silva (10-0, 7 KOs) will be looking to impress in an eight-round super middleweight fight against Alan Campa (18-6, 12 KOs). One of Golden Boy’s fan-favorites, Jousce “Tito” Gonzalez (13-0-1, 12 KOs) of Glendora, California will participate in a ten-round junior welterweight fight against Ivan “Macanon” Cano (26-10-2, 16 KOs) of Mexico City.
Also on the card, Nick “Slicknick” Sullivan (6-0, 1 KO) of Norfolk, Virginia is scheduled for a six-round lightweight matchup against a soon-to-be announced opponent. Gregory “Goyo” Morales (13-1, 8 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas will participate in a six-round featherweight tilt against Guadalajara’s Alexis “Picudito” Molina (8-1-1, 5 KOs). Culiacán, Mexico’s Martin Leon will partake in an eight-round lightweight scrap against a soon-to-be announced opponent.
“I am excited to be the main event for this fight card. I have been waiting for this next step in my career and I can’t wait to demonstrate to everyone who I am, my potential and that I can fight in the big leagues,” said Raúl Curiel. “It’s been a long year, and I have been training hard these past three and a half months. I am very prepared to defend my NABF title that I have worked very hard to earn. I look forward to continuing to climb the rankings to one day contest for a world championship.”
Tickets for Golden Boy Fight Night: LA Edition will go on sale Wednesday, November 30, at 10 a.m. PT and are priced at $75, $50, and $30 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at GoldenBoyPromotions.com.
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Golden Boy announces Dec. 17th show in L.A. area
Golden Boy Fight Night: LA Edition series will wrap up its 2022 run with welterweight Raúl “Cugar” Curiel (11-0, 9 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico facing Georgia’s Brad Solomon (29-5, 9 KOs). The scheduled ten-round scrap will take place on Saturday, December 17th at The Commerce Casino and Hotel in the Los Angeles area. The show will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT.
Providing chief support to the card, Mexicali, Mexico’s Diego De La Hoya (23-1, 11 KOs) will face Jose “El Torito” Gonzalez (23-10-1, 13 KOs) of Guadalajara in a ten-round featherweight fight. Also on the card, Monterrey, Mexico’s Aaron Silva (10-0, 7 KOs) will be looking to impress in an eight-round super middleweight fight against Alan Campa (18-6, 12 KOs). One of Golden Boy’s fan-favorites, Jousce “Tito” Gonzalez (13-0-1, 12 KOs) of Glendora, California will participate in a ten-round junior welterweight fight against Ivan “Macanon” Cano (26-10-2, 16 KOs) of Mexico City.
Also on the card, Nick “Slicknick” Sullivan (6-0, 1 KO) of Norfolk, Virginia is scheduled for a six-round lightweight matchup against a soon-to-be announced opponent. Gregory “Goyo” Morales (13-1, 8 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas will participate in a six-round featherweight tilt against Guadalajara’s Alexis “Picudito” Molina (8-1-1, 5 KOs). Culiacán, Mexico’s Martin Leon will partake in an eight-round lightweight scrap against a soon-to-be announced opponent.
“I am excited to be the main event for this fight card. I have been waiting for this next step in my career and I can’t wait to demonstrate to everyone who I am, my potential and that I can fight in the big leagues,” said Raúl Curiel. “It’s been a long year, and I have been training hard these past three and a half months. I am very prepared to defend my NABF title that I have worked very hard to earn. I look forward to continuing to climb the rankings to one day contest for a world championship.”
Tickets for Golden Boy Fight Night: LA Edition will go on sale Wednesday, November 30, at 10 a.m. PT and are priced at $75, $50, and $30 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at GoldenBoyPromotions.com.
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Zab Judah included on this Saturday's PPV broadcast team |
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The official broadcast team has been named for the pay-per-view event between WBO welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) and challenger David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) that will take place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on December 10th. Lupe Contreras will serve as the ring announcer, Zab Judah (pictured) will offer behind-the-scenes insight and backstage interviews, Todd Grisham will lead the commentary crew with BWAA award-winning broadcast journalist Paulie Malignaggi and Antonio Tarver. Cheyenne McCargo will serve as the undercard scoring voice to conclude the crew. Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on BLK Prime and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99.
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Zab Judah included on this Saturday's PPV broadcast team
The official broadcast team has been named for the pay-per-view event between WBO welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) and challenger David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) that will take place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on December 10th. Lupe Contreras will serve as the ring announcer, Zab Judah (pictured) will offer behind-the-scenes insight and backstage interviews, Todd Grisham will lead the commentary crew with BWAA award-winning broadcast journalist Paulie Malignaggi and Antonio Tarver. Cheyenne McCargo will serve as the undercard scoring voice to conclude the crew. Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on BLK Prime and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99.
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Bare Knuckle fight results: Luis Palomino makes BKFC history |
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On Saturday at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, Luis Palomino became the first fighter to successfully defend a BKFC championship five times. He accomplished the feat with a fourth-round technical knockout victory over Tom Shoaff, show live on the BKFC app. In addition to the BKFC lightweight championship that he defended Saturday against Shoaff, Palomino is also the BKFC welterweight champion and is undefeated in his eight trips to the BKFC squared circle,. He also sits sits atop BKFC's pound-for-pound rankings.“Every fight, we’re setting records and making history,” the two-division BKFC champ says. “These records are going to be harder and harder to break, and we’re only going higher and higher.”
Palomino is always happy to add to his unparalleled resume, but he had a different definition of success for Saturday’s title defense. “For what I was aiming at, I give myself an A-plus. What I was wanting to do was put on a show for the fans,” the Peruvian-American champ says. “I can get in there and outbox most of the division. I can go in there and pick my shots and take minimal damage. But I had to remind the fans. I can be technical, but I can be a savage too.”
In the co-feature, David Mundell dethroned the previously unbeaten champ Francesco Ricchi for the BKFC middleweight title. “It’s amazing to be able to hold the title,” the hard-hitting Florida product says. “I feel like I deserve it. I’ve been ranked #1 for a long time, so it feels good to get my shot and make the most of it.”
Earning a BKFC championship was a long-time goal for Mundell, and he says it feels good to officially set the pace for his division. But now that the dust has settled from Saturday’s action, he feels not much has changed. “There might be a target on my back for other fighters in my weight class, but I don’t think there’s anybody in the division that can stop me,” Mundell says.
Mundell’s confident mindset hasn't changed, and he believes his status as a champion won’t change in 2023. “A year from now, I want to be exactly where I am today,” he says with a chuckle. “Maybe I’ll have another belt around my waist by then.”
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Louie Lopez defeated Howard Davis by TKO in round 1 (2:00);
Christine Vicens defeated Jocelyn Lybarger by unanimous decision;
Blake Davis defeated William Dunkle by KO in round 1 (1:43);
Bryan Duran defeated Kobe Bowen by KO in round 1 (:15);
Rene Rodriguez defeated Jake Young by TKO in round 1 (1:54);
Guillermo Perez defeated Rob Fuller by KO in round 1 (1:54);
Joshua Famez defeated Glendel Futrell by unanimous decision;
Alberto Blas defeated Jeremiah Potts by TKO in round 1 (:54);
Jeremy Smith defeated Leo Valdivia by KO in round 3 (1:52);
Rambo Russo defeated Jakobi Lowry by TKO in round 1 (2:00); and
Freddy Masabo defeated Shawn Moffett by TKO in round 1 (:27).
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Bare Knuckle fight results: Luis Palomino makes BKFC history
On Saturday at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, Luis Palomino became the first fighter to successfully defend a BKFC championship five times. He accomplished the feat with a fourth-round technical knockout victory over Tom Shoaff, show live on the BKFC app. In addition to the BKFC lightweight championship that he defended Saturday against Shoaff, Palomino is also the BKFC welterweight champion and is undefeated in his eight trips to the BKFC squared circle,. He also sits sits atop BKFC's pound-for-pound rankings.“Every fight, we’re setting records and making history,” the two-division BKFC champ says. “These records are going to be harder and harder to break, and we’re only going higher and higher.”
Palomino is always happy to add to his unparalleled resume, but he had a different definition of success for Saturday’s title defense. “For what I was aiming at, I give myself an A-plus. What I was wanting to do was put on a show for the fans,” the Peruvian-American champ says. “I can get in there and outbox most of the division. I can go in there and pick my shots and take minimal damage. But I had to remind the fans. I can be technical, but I can be a savage too.”
In the co-feature, David Mundell dethroned the previously unbeaten champ Francesco Ricchi for the BKFC middleweight title. “It’s amazing to be able to hold the title,” the hard-hitting Florida product says. “I feel like I deserve it. I’ve been ranked #1 for a long time, so it feels good to get my shot and make the most of it.”
Earning a BKFC championship was a long-time goal for Mundell, and he says it feels good to officially set the pace for his division. But now that the dust has settled from Saturday’s action, he feels not much has changed. “There might be a target on my back for other fighters in my weight class, but I don’t think there’s anybody in the division that can stop me,” Mundell says.
Mundell’s confident mindset hasn't changed, and he believes his status as a champion won’t change in 2023. “A year from now, I want to be exactly where I am today,” he says with a chuckle. “Maybe I’ll have another belt around my waist by then.”
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Louie Lopez defeated Howard Davis by TKO in round 1 (2:00);
Christine Vicens defeated Jocelyn Lybarger by unanimous decision;
Blake Davis defeated William Dunkle by KO in round 1 (1:43);
Bryan Duran defeated Kobe Bowen by KO in round 1 (:15);
Rene Rodriguez defeated Jake Young by TKO in round 1 (1:54);
Guillermo Perez defeated Rob Fuller by KO in round 1 (1:54);
Joshua Famez defeated Glendel Futrell by unanimous decision;
Alberto Blas defeated Jeremiah Potts by TKO in round 1 (:54);
Jeremy Smith defeated Leo Valdivia by KO in round 3 (1:52);
Rambo Russo defeated Jakobi Lowry by TKO in round 1 (2:00); and
Freddy Masabo defeated Shawn Moffett by TKO in round 1 (:27).
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Ohan understands he's the underdog this weekend |
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Preparing to be the underdog for the first time in his professional career, former New England welterweight champion Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (16-1, 9 KOs) will embrace that role this Saturday against 2021 U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (6-0, 4 KOs) at the famed Madison Square Garden in New York City. Johnson vs. Ohan is a scheduled eight-round welterweight match streaming live on ESPN+ on a Top Rank card, headlined by a Heisman Night fight featuring Teofimo Lopez against Sandor Martin. Ohan said, “this may not be his territory" [Johnson is from Cleveland]. “But it is his promoter’s show. I need to knock him off and maybe grab his spot. I’m sure that as an Olympian he has seen everything, so I need to execute my game plan. I won’t be thinking about winning or losing, I need to give it all I have and leave it all in the ring.”
Johnson reached the quarterfinals at the last Olympic Games in Tokyo, in which he lost to three-time Cuban Olympic boxer Roniel Iglesias (30-43), 29-28. Iglesias went on to capture his second Olympic gold medal.
“Mike got to this stage the hard way,” Ohan’s promoter Chris Traietti (Granite Chin Promotions) noted. “Nothing was given to him. He stayed busy on the local level, sometimes taking fights at not the most prestigious venues, but he doesn’t get caught up with the glitz and glamour, or lack thereof. He stuck to the plan, worked hard, and now he’s getting his just reward. December 10th, the boxing world will witness the breakout moment in Mike Ohan Jr’s career.”
Because the fight date is so close to Thanksgiving, Ohan couldn’t really stuff himself like most people did. “I had to sacrifice,” the 28-year old. “I just ate some white meat and some carbs. It was my normal regiment but no dessert. I’m saving that for Christmas."
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Ohan understands he's the underdog this weekend
Preparing to be the underdog for the first time in his professional career, former New England welterweight champion Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (16-1, 9 KOs) will embrace that role this Saturday against 2021 U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (6-0, 4 KOs) at the famed Madison Square Garden in New York City. Johnson vs. Ohan is a scheduled eight-round welterweight match streaming live on ESPN+ on a Top Rank card, headlined by a Heisman Night fight featuring Teofimo Lopez against Sandor Martin. Ohan said, “this may not be his territory" [Johnson is from Cleveland]. “But it is his promoter’s show. I need to knock him off and maybe grab his spot. I’m sure that as an Olympian he has seen everything, so I need to execute my game plan. I won’t be thinking about winning or losing, I need to give it all I have and leave it all in the ring.”
Johnson reached the quarterfinals at the last Olympic Games in Tokyo, in which he lost to three-time Cuban Olympic boxer Roniel Iglesias (30-43), 29-28. Iglesias went on to capture his second Olympic gold medal.
“Mike got to this stage the hard way,” Ohan’s promoter Chris Traietti (Granite Chin Promotions) noted. “Nothing was given to him. He stayed busy on the local level, sometimes taking fights at not the most prestigious venues, but he doesn’t get caught up with the glitz and glamour, or lack thereof. He stuck to the plan, worked hard, and now he’s getting his just reward. December 10th, the boxing world will witness the breakout moment in Mike Ohan Jr’s career.”
Because the fight date is so close to Thanksgiving, Ohan couldn’t really stuff himself like most people did. “I had to sacrifice,” the 28-year old. “I just ate some white meat and some carbs. It was my normal regiment but no dessert. I’m saving that for Christmas."
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A few words with featherweight Eduardo Baez |
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Featherweight Eduardo Baez (21-3-2, 7 KOs), of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, is set to battle Arnold Khegai (18-1-1, 11 KOs) of the Ukraine on Sautrday at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska. The ten-round bout will take place on pay-per-view broadcast of Terence “Bud” Crawford's WBO welterweight tilte defense against David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs). Here is what Baez had to say about his training camp, his matchup Khegai, fighting on BLK Prime pay-per-view and more.
On his recent training camp:
“I'm grinding. Camp has been great, no secrets other than hard work. I enter the gym and leave with a shirt that is drenched in sweat, go home, change and jog and have even more clothes that I cover sweat. I’m an old school kind of guy, just working extremely hard in the gyn to be in the best shape on fight night.”
On his matchup with Arnold Khegai:
“I like his style. I think he is an exciting fighter. I hope he comes to lay it on the line and give the fans a good fight. I think he knows how good I am, and I know he is talented as well. I personally think we are going to steal the show, as this a battle of two warriors who have fought at the highest level in the sport. I’m expecting a gruesome war.”
On what a win will do for his career:
“I feel I am close to the top of the featherweight division. A win here helps me stay the course, and continue to get profitable opportunities, against big name fighters. A lot of the champions are leaving the featherweight division, so I am eager to face the new challengers and compete for a world title with a victory."
On making his debut on BLK Prime pay-per-view:
“I love it. BLK Prime is investing in the fighters. They have made it easy to purchase the event, and they're giving us fighters another network to compete on. I can't express the gratitude I have for BLK Prime for putting me on this card and giving me a chance on such a big event."
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A few words with featherweight Eduardo Baez
Featherweight Eduardo Baez (21-3-2, 7 KOs), of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, is set to battle Arnold Khegai (18-1-1, 11 KOs) of the Ukraine on Sautrday at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska. The ten-round bout will take place on pay-per-view broadcast of Terence “Bud” Crawford's WBO welterweight tilte defense against David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs). Here is what Baez had to say about his training camp, his matchup Khegai, fighting on BLK Prime pay-per-view and more.
On his recent training camp:
“I'm grinding. Camp has been great, no secrets other than hard work. I enter the gym and leave with a shirt that is drenched in sweat, go home, change and jog and have even more clothes that I cover sweat. I’m an old school kind of guy, just working extremely hard in the gyn to be in the best shape on fight night.”
On his matchup with Arnold Khegai:
“I like his style. I think he is an exciting fighter. I hope he comes to lay it on the line and give the fans a good fight. I think he knows how good I am, and I know he is talented as well. I personally think we are going to steal the show, as this a battle of two warriors who have fought at the highest level in the sport. I’m expecting a gruesome war.”
On what a win will do for his career:
“I feel I am close to the top of the featherweight division. A win here helps me stay the course, and continue to get profitable opportunities, against big name fighters. A lot of the champions are leaving the featherweight division, so I am eager to face the new challengers and compete for a world title with a victory."
On making his debut on BLK Prime pay-per-view:
“I love it. BLK Prime is investing in the fighters. They have made it easy to purchase the event, and they're giving us fighters another network to compete on. I can't express the gratitude I have for BLK Prime for putting me on this card and giving me a chance on such a big event."
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Josh Kelly celebrates domestic title win |
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Here is what Josh Kelly’s (13-2-1 including the World Series of Boxing) had to say after dethroning Troy Williamson (19-1-1, 14 KOs) for the British junior middleweight championship on Friday by scores of 118-110, 119-109 and 119-111: “The performance felt that smooth, and that much like it was the way it was supposed to go, I’m saying to Adam “Can you snap me out of this dream”. That was support from all sides tonight with some Middlesbrough fans, some Newcastle fans and some Sunderland fans; but the North East turned out. This British title means so much to me, oh my god, all that hard work’s paid off baby."
As for questions about his stamina, Kelly said, "What gas tank? That’s cancelled. I feel like I can go and do another five or ten rounds there. I boxed to instructions, boxed clever, boxed safe, boxed tidy and didn’t take no risks; and that’s what the outcome turns out like. Troy was meant to come and do a demolition job on me, he’s a hard-punching knockout artist in the Super Welterweight division. There’s a new name now, there was always the name actually, but it has come into play now. Josh Kelly, baby... A massive happy birthday to my trainer Adam Booth as well. Massive respect to Troy and all his team and fans too, all that online stuff is just online stuff. We’re cool, Troy’s a very hard and strong competitor, but I want to take the time to thank everyone who has stuck behind me and been loyal. My dad, my mum, my family; everybody man.”
“Thank you Channel 5 and everyone for all their support. Merry Christmas everyone, we’re going to have a good one this year.”
Promoter Kalle Sauerland
“There’s good boxers, there’s very good boxers, and then there’s special boxers. I’m so proud of Josh, all those critics had their words stuffed right back down their throats after them 12 rounds tonight. The sky is the limit for him, like Adam (Booth) said, he’s not just good he’s special. There’s a reason why there was so much hype surrounding him at the beginning of his career; the hype train is back on.”
“It's going to be an amazing journey next year, we’re just very excited. I want to enjoy tonight first but there’s huge domestic fights available to us, this is world level though. What we saw tonight was world class. This has been a long time coming, tonight he proved all the doubters wrong in the best possible way. I’m so proud of him, and Adam, absolute professionals in the way they’ve gone about it as always. What Josh did tonight was a masterclass against a very dangerous opponent, do not underestimate him because he’ll be back I’m sure; but Josh Kelly is special.”
Trainer Adam Booth
“I’ve said from the first day that he’s the most talented fighter I’ve ever worked with. The only person who beat Josh Kelly up until now was Josh Kelly, he had to overcome monumental mental issues. We have now started to unearth the potential that lies in this man; he is going to be something special.”
“I’m only interested in working with the best, and he’s only interested with being the best.”
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Josh Kelly celebrates domestic title win
Here is what Josh Kelly’s (13-2-1 including the World Series of Boxing) had to say after dethroning Troy Williamson (19-1-1, 14 KOs) for the British junior middleweight championship on Friday by scores of 118-110, 119-109 and 119-111: “The performance felt that smooth, and that much like it was the way it was supposed to go, I’m saying to Adam “Can you snap me out of this dream”. That was support from all sides tonight with some Middlesbrough fans, some Newcastle fans and some Sunderland fans; but the North East turned out. This British title means so much to me, oh my god, all that hard work’s paid off baby."
As for questions about his stamina, Kelly said, "What gas tank? That’s cancelled. I feel like I can go and do another five or ten rounds there. I boxed to instructions, boxed clever, boxed safe, boxed tidy and didn’t take no risks; and that’s what the outcome turns out like. Troy was meant to come and do a demolition job on me, he’s a hard-punching knockout artist in the Super Welterweight division. There’s a new name now, there was always the name actually, but it has come into play now. Josh Kelly, baby... A massive happy birthday to my trainer Adam Booth as well. Massive respect to Troy and all his team and fans too, all that online stuff is just online stuff. We’re cool, Troy’s a very hard and strong competitor, but I want to take the time to thank everyone who has stuck behind me and been loyal. My dad, my mum, my family; everybody man.”
“Thank you Channel 5 and everyone for all their support. Merry Christmas everyone, we’re going to have a good one this year.”
Promoter Kalle Sauerland
“There’s good boxers, there’s very good boxers, and then there’s special boxers. I’m so proud of Josh, all those critics had their words stuffed right back down their throats after them 12 rounds tonight. The sky is the limit for him, like Adam (Booth) said, he’s not just good he’s special. There’s a reason why there was so much hype surrounding him at the beginning of his career; the hype train is back on.”
“It's going to be an amazing journey next year, we’re just very excited. I want to enjoy tonight first but there’s huge domestic fights available to us, this is world level though. What we saw tonight was world class. This has been a long time coming, tonight he proved all the doubters wrong in the best possible way. I’m so proud of him, and Adam, absolute professionals in the way they’ve gone about it as always. What Josh did tonight was a masterclass against a very dangerous opponent, do not underestimate him because he’ll be back I’m sure; but Josh Kelly is special.”
Trainer Adam Booth
“I’ve said from the first day that he’s the most talented fighter I’ve ever worked with. The only person who beat Josh Kelly up until now was Josh Kelly, he had to overcome monumental mental issues. We have now started to unearth the potential that lies in this man; he is going to be something special.”
“I’m only interested in working with the best, and he’s only interested with being the best.”
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Boots Ennis will face Karen Chukhadzhian on Tank Davis PPV broadcast |
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Rising welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis (pictured) returns to action to take on Karen Chukhadzhian for the IBF interim title on January 7th in Washington, D.C. as the co-feature on the pay-per-view broadcast headlined by Gervonta "Tank" Davis vs. WBA 130-pound champion Hector Luis Garcia. Rounding out the pay-per-view broadcast, welterweight Rashidi Ellis faces the hard-hitting Roiman Villa in another twelve-round duel, and former two-division champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade steps into the ring for a ten-round super middleweight clash against Maryland native Demond Nicholson.
“With a blockbuster main even matchup, it is fitting that the pay-per-view undercard will be jam-packed from top to bottom with some of the sport’s best and most intriguing fighters in high-stakes clashes,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jaron Ennis, Demetrius Andrade and Rashidi Ellis have all shown off their immense talent throughout their careers and will all look to take important steps on January 7 in Washington, D.C. Ennis is one of the sport’s bright young stars and will be looking to move even closer to a world title fight, while Ellis is deep into his own ascent on the 147-pound crown. Kicking off the telecast is the dangerous two-division champion Andrade, who can send a message to the rest of the 168-pound division when he opens the pay-per-view. This card is lined up to deliver from open to close and has all the makings of a night of non-stop action.”
Ennis (29-0, 27 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining elite boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After two appearances on ShoBox: The New Generation, the 25 year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first Showtime Championship Boxing telecast in April 2021, becoming the first fighter to stop former 140-pound champion Sergey Lipinets. He followed up that performance with a first-round stoppage of Thomas Dulorme in October of that year, before most recently blasting out Custio Clayton in two rounds in May in his ninth appearance on Showtime. The knockout victory gave Ennis 19 KOs in his last 20 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.
“I can’t wait to start 2023 off right by putting on another explosive performance for my fans,” said Ennis. “I respect all my opponents and am training harder than ever to come out victorious on January 7th to move one step closer to becoming world champion. Next year is going to be the most significant year of my career and it all starts with this fight. My time is now.”
The 26 year-old Chukhadzhian (21-1, 11 KOs) rose up the IBF rankings with a pair of stoppage victories in 2022, dispatching of Ryan Martin in eight rounds in January prior to retiring Blake Minto after six rounds in July. A native of Kiev, Ukraine, Chukhadzhian will make his U.S. debut on January 7th. The only blemish on his record came in his second pro fight, a three-round split-decision loss in a tournament-style bout.
“When the offer to fight Jaron Ennis came to us, we immediately agreed,” said Chukhadzhian. “Ennis is a very good boxer. However, both Armenian and Ukrainian blood flows through my veins, and I’m not traveling to the U.S. for a check, but with the goal of showing that all of the hard work we put in was not in vain. We are preparing in the gym, where there is no water and light because of the war. But what doesn’t break us only makes us stronger. I’m confident I will have my hand raised on January 7th.”
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Boots Ennis will face Karen Chukhadzhian on Tank Davis PPV broadcast
Rising welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis (pictured) returns to action to take on Karen Chukhadzhian for the IBF interim title on January 7th in Washington, D.C. as the co-feature on the pay-per-view broadcast headlined by Gervonta "Tank" Davis vs. WBA 130-pound champion Hector Luis Garcia. Rounding out the pay-per-view broadcast, welterweight Rashidi Ellis faces the hard-hitting Roiman Villa in another twelve-round duel, and former two-division champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade steps into the ring for a ten-round super middleweight clash against Maryland native Demond Nicholson.
“With a blockbuster main even matchup, it is fitting that the pay-per-view undercard will be jam-packed from top to bottom with some of the sport’s best and most intriguing fighters in high-stakes clashes,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jaron Ennis, Demetrius Andrade and Rashidi Ellis have all shown off their immense talent throughout their careers and will all look to take important steps on January 7 in Washington, D.C. Ennis is one of the sport’s bright young stars and will be looking to move even closer to a world title fight, while Ellis is deep into his own ascent on the 147-pound crown. Kicking off the telecast is the dangerous two-division champion Andrade, who can send a message to the rest of the 168-pound division when he opens the pay-per-view. This card is lined up to deliver from open to close and has all the makings of a night of non-stop action.”
Ennis (29-0, 27 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining elite boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After two appearances on ShoBox: The New Generation, the 25 year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first Showtime Championship Boxing telecast in April 2021, becoming the first fighter to stop former 140-pound champion Sergey Lipinets. He followed up that performance with a first-round stoppage of Thomas Dulorme in October of that year, before most recently blasting out Custio Clayton in two rounds in May in his ninth appearance on Showtime. The knockout victory gave Ennis 19 KOs in his last 20 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.
“I can’t wait to start 2023 off right by putting on another explosive performance for my fans,” said Ennis. “I respect all my opponents and am training harder than ever to come out victorious on January 7th to move one step closer to becoming world champion. Next year is going to be the most significant year of my career and it all starts with this fight. My time is now.”
The 26 year-old Chukhadzhian (21-1, 11 KOs) rose up the IBF rankings with a pair of stoppage victories in 2022, dispatching of Ryan Martin in eight rounds in January prior to retiring Blake Minto after six rounds in July. A native of Kiev, Ukraine, Chukhadzhian will make his U.S. debut on January 7th. The only blemish on his record came in his second pro fight, a three-round split-decision loss in a tournament-style bout.
“When the offer to fight Jaron Ennis came to us, we immediately agreed,” said Chukhadzhian. “Ennis is a very good boxer. However, both Armenian and Ukrainian blood flows through my veins, and I’m not traveling to the U.S. for a check, but with the goal of showing that all of the hard work we put in was not in vain. We are preparing in the gym, where there is no water and light because of the war. But what doesn’t break us only makes us stronger. I’m confident I will have my hand raised on January 7th.”
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Tank Davis vs. Hector L. Garcia formally announced for Showtime PPV on Jan. 7th |
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Undefeated Gervonta “Tank” Davis (pictured) will return to the nation’s capital to defend his WBA regular lightweight title against unbeaten WBA junior lightweight champion Héctor Luis García on Saturday, January 7th, headlining a Showtime pay-per-view from Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Davis has established himself as one of boxing’s must-see attractions, with dramatic knockouts, arena sell-outs and a stint as WBA 130-pound champion pluus secondary titles at 135 and 140 pounds. The Baltimore native will return to fight in D.C. for the first time since 2016, when he headlines against the dangerous and streaking García, needing a win to pave the way for the recently announced blockbuster clash against unbeaten star Ryan Garcia in the spring of 2023. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com and capitalonearena.com.
“Showtime is coming out of the gate strong in 2023 with this hard-hitting card headlined by the sport’s most vibrant star, Gervonta Davis,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Gervonta could have taken a softer touch before meeting Ryan Garcia in the spring. Instead, he’s facing a strong candidate for the 2022 Fighter of the Year in the dangerous Hector Luis Garcia and giving back to his fans with this tremendous matchup. We’re thrilled to return to the nation’s capital for the first time since 2016 for what should be an unforgettable start to the New Year for boxing fans.”
“We’re ready to welcome boxing back to the big stage in the DMV region after 17 years," said Jordan Silberman, General Manager, Capital One Arena. "It's an honor to host ‘Tank’, a Baltimore native, and Héctor Luis García for what will no doubt be a special night at Capital One Arena."
Davis (27-0, 25 KOs) will attempt his fourth defense of the WBA regular 135-pound title when he meets Hector Luis Garcia. Davis delivered yet another highlight reel performance in his last bout, blasting out the previously unbeaten Rolando Romero with a powerful left hand in the sixth round of their May 2022 encounter.
In 2021, Davis stopped then-unbeaten Mario Barrios at 140 pounds, before dropping back down to 135 to turn away Isaac Cruz in a successful December 5th title defense. In October 2020, Davis scored a sensational knockout over Leo Santa Cruz, making him the first person to ever drop the four-division champion. Davis’ elite ability, coupled with his explosive knockout power, has made him a rising force in the sport ever since bursting onto the scene with an explosive knockout victory over Jose Pedraza in 2017 [for his only legitimate world title thus far]. Boasting a knockout rate over 92%, Davis captured his lightweight championship with a 12th-round KO of former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in December 2019.
“I’m very excited to be fighting again in the DMV,” said Davis. “I can’t wait to see all my day one supporters, family, friends, and fans come together for a big fight party. My opponent is an Olympian and a world champion who’s proven to the boxing world that he is a tremendous competitor. I’m in camp working hard and I’ll be ready on January 7 to make this a statement fight for all my future opponents. Make sure you get your tickets now, because this fight is going to be a sellout for sure! Keep supporting me and I’ll fight for you!”
García (16-0, 10 KOs) is coming off a spectacular 2022 highlighted by two marquee victories. García has fought professionally since December of 2016 after a stellar amateur career that included representing his native Dominican Republic in the 2016 Olympics and a runner-up finish at the 2015 Pan-Am Games in Toronto.
Now training in Las Vegas under Bob Santos, García scored one of the biggest upsets of 2022 in February, when he dropped and defeated then-unbeaten Chris Colbert. In August, García captured his title with a one-sided unanimous decision over incumbent Roger Gutierrez, making him a strong candidate for Fighter of the Year honors. The 31-year-old stands at 5-foot-9 and will own a sizeable height advantage over Davis when he makes his lightweight debut on January 7th.
“I want to thank my whole team, along with Gervonta Davis, for the opportunity to face one of the best fighters in the world,” said García. “This is going to elevate my game and ultimately, it’s going to give the fans an all-time classic that they won’t forget. On January 7, Gervonta Davis and I are going to produce a war that is going to go down as one of the great fights in history and will solidify my name with the greats.”
The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV and marks the return of Showtime Boxing to the Capital One Arena location for the first time since June 11, 2005, for Mike Tyson’s farewell fight with Kevin McBride. It also represents the return of Showtime and big-time boxing to the nation’s capital for the first time since April 30, 2016.
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Tank Davis vs. Hector L. Garcia formally announced for Showtime PPV on Jan. 7th
Undefeated Gervonta “Tank” Davis (pictured) will return to the nation’s capital to defend his WBA regular lightweight title against unbeaten WBA junior lightweight champion Héctor Luis García on Saturday, January 7th, headlining a Showtime pay-per-view from Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Davis has established himself as one of boxing’s must-see attractions, with dramatic knockouts, arena sell-outs and a stint as WBA 130-pound champion pluus secondary titles at 135 and 140 pounds. The Baltimore native will return to fight in D.C. for the first time since 2016, when he headlines against the dangerous and streaking García, needing a win to pave the way for the recently announced blockbuster clash against unbeaten star Ryan Garcia in the spring of 2023. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com and capitalonearena.com.
“Showtime is coming out of the gate strong in 2023 with this hard-hitting card headlined by the sport’s most vibrant star, Gervonta Davis,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Gervonta could have taken a softer touch before meeting Ryan Garcia in the spring. Instead, he’s facing a strong candidate for the 2022 Fighter of the Year in the dangerous Hector Luis Garcia and giving back to his fans with this tremendous matchup. We’re thrilled to return to the nation’s capital for the first time since 2016 for what should be an unforgettable start to the New Year for boxing fans.”
“We’re ready to welcome boxing back to the big stage in the DMV region after 17 years," said Jordan Silberman, General Manager, Capital One Arena. "It's an honor to host ‘Tank’, a Baltimore native, and Héctor Luis García for what will no doubt be a special night at Capital One Arena."
Davis (27-0, 25 KOs) will attempt his fourth defense of the WBA regular 135-pound title when he meets Hector Luis Garcia. Davis delivered yet another highlight reel performance in his last bout, blasting out the previously unbeaten Rolando Romero with a powerful left hand in the sixth round of their May 2022 encounter.
In 2021, Davis stopped then-unbeaten Mario Barrios at 140 pounds, before dropping back down to 135 to turn away Isaac Cruz in a successful December 5th title defense. In October 2020, Davis scored a sensational knockout over Leo Santa Cruz, making him the first person to ever drop the four-division champion. Davis’ elite ability, coupled with his explosive knockout power, has made him a rising force in the sport ever since bursting onto the scene with an explosive knockout victory over Jose Pedraza in 2017 [for his only legitimate world title thus far]. Boasting a knockout rate over 92%, Davis captured his lightweight championship with a 12th-round KO of former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in December 2019.
“I’m very excited to be fighting again in the DMV,” said Davis. “I can’t wait to see all my day one supporters, family, friends, and fans come together for a big fight party. My opponent is an Olympian and a world champion who’s proven to the boxing world that he is a tremendous competitor. I’m in camp working hard and I’ll be ready on January 7 to make this a statement fight for all my future opponents. Make sure you get your tickets now, because this fight is going to be a sellout for sure! Keep supporting me and I’ll fight for you!”
García (16-0, 10 KOs) is coming off a spectacular 2022 highlighted by two marquee victories. García has fought professionally since December of 2016 after a stellar amateur career that included representing his native Dominican Republic in the 2016 Olympics and a runner-up finish at the 2015 Pan-Am Games in Toronto.
Now training in Las Vegas under Bob Santos, García scored one of the biggest upsets of 2022 in February, when he dropped and defeated then-unbeaten Chris Colbert. In August, García captured his title with a one-sided unanimous decision over incumbent Roger Gutierrez, making him a strong candidate for Fighter of the Year honors. The 31-year-old stands at 5-foot-9 and will own a sizeable height advantage over Davis when he makes his lightweight debut on January 7th.
“I want to thank my whole team, along with Gervonta Davis, for the opportunity to face one of the best fighters in the world,” said García. “This is going to elevate my game and ultimately, it’s going to give the fans an all-time classic that they won’t forget. On January 7, Gervonta Davis and I are going to produce a war that is going to go down as one of the great fights in history and will solidify my name with the greats.”
The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV and marks the return of Showtime Boxing to the Capital One Arena location for the first time since June 11, 2005, for Mike Tyson’s farewell fight with Kevin McBride. It also represents the return of Showtime and big-time boxing to the nation’s capital for the first time since April 30, 2016.
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WBA schedules purse bid for Stanionis vs. Ortiz |
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The WBA has scheduled a purse bid for its secondary title in the welterweight division. If no deal can be reached in the next week, a purse bid for the mandatory bout between regular champion Eimantis Stanionis (pictured) and challenger Vergil Ortiz Jr. will be held on Monday, December 12th at the Caribe Royale Hotel, in Orlando, as part of the WBA's convention. The minimum bid will be $200,000 with a 75% split for the champion and 25% to the mandatory challenger. The WBA has sent the official communication to both fighters’ teams. Stanionis, lisrted as 14-0 is more accurately 18-3 including the World Series of Boxing while Ortiz has 19 pro wins in as many fights, all by knockout.
The winner of this fight will become the WBA mandatory chalenger for the winner between WBA suoer campion Errol Spence Jr. and former two-belt champion Keith Thurman. Spence also holds the IBF and WBC welterweight championships.
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WBA schedules purse bid for Stanionis vs. Ortiz
The WBA has scheduled a purse bid for its secondary title in the welterweight division. If no deal can be reached in the next week, a purse bid for the mandatory bout between regular champion Eimantis Stanionis (pictured) and challenger Vergil Ortiz Jr. will be held on Monday, December 12th at the Caribe Royale Hotel, in Orlando, as part of the WBA's convention. The minimum bid will be $200,000 with a 75% split for the champion and 25% to the mandatory challenger. The WBA has sent the official communication to both fighters’ teams. Stanionis, lisrted as 14-0 is more accurately 18-3 including the World Series of Boxing while Ortiz has 19 pro wins in as many fights, all by knockout.
The winner of this fight will become the WBA mandatory chalenger for the winner between WBA suoer campion Errol Spence Jr. and former two-belt champion Keith Thurman. Spence also holds the IBF and WBC welterweight championships.
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Josh Kelly takes British title from Troy Williamson |
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Josh Kelly W12 Troy Williamson... Sunderland, England's Josh Kelly’s (13-2-1 including the World Series of Boxing) dethroned Troy Williamson (19-1-1, 14 KOs) for the British junior middleweight championship on Friday. Kelly outboxed Williamson en route to a unanimous decision, scored 118-110, 119-109 and 119-111 by the judges. The fight was shown live on England's Channel 5 from the Utilita Arena in Newcastle. Kelly was loose and fluid from the opening bell, both defensively and offensively. The left hook from Kelly caused problems throughout the night as it often landed flush. followed by a right uppercut, which proved to be a winning combination.
Williamson never once backed down from the uphill task of trying to keep his belt. After being dominated in the first round, he was immediately back off his stool to step towards ‘PBK’ and look to shut him down. Kelly proved to be far too switched on for Williamson to land any substantial blows however as the Sunderland man remained confident in circling his opponent from the outside.
The performance from the new champion, Kelly, was epitomized in the fifth round as a left hook and right hook had Troy scrambled for a moment. With a slight quiver in his opponent’s legs, Kelly was in no rush to blindly seek a finish. He remained aggressive and aware of any opportunity to present itself, but this was a different fighter existing in his own bubble on the night and he remained in control of his emotions and dictated the bout.
More highlights came for Kelly in the seventh round, as he employed a Muhammad Ali rope-a-dope style evasion. His confidence carried him in full control all the way towards the end of the fight as he remained calm, cool and collected with every second of every round.
With questions regarding his gas tank being asked in the build up to this fight, the eleventh round answered them all as Kelly opted to stand between rounds and pace around the ring. He was still spritely, and still so loose and active as he pulled out another tried and tested left hook with a right uppercut. Another mainstay in the fight was Kelly’s movement, constantly snapping jabs at lovely angles to then use his footwork to slide out of the way and leave Williamson turning to find him once again.
UNDERCARD RESULTS:
Lyndon Arthur defeated Joel McIntyre via stoppage in the second round...
Franklin Ignatius defeated Hosea Stewart via referee's decision, 58-56...
Joe Laws defeated Alexander Zeledon via referee's decision, 39-37...
Ben Marksby defeated Santiago Garces via referee's decision, 59-56...
Katharina Thanderz defeated Edina Kiss via referee's decision, 78-75...
Sheila Martinez defeated Jordan Barker-Porter via referee's decision, 60-54...
Ewan Mackenzie defeated Angel Emilov via referee's decision, 40-36...
Bobby Dalton defeated Joel Banderas via referee's decision, 40-37...
Travis Waters defeated Eligio Palacios via referee's decision, 40-36 and...
Adam Reichard defeated Claudio Baldomir via referee's decision - 39-38.
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Josh Kelly takes British title from Troy Williamson
Josh Kelly W12 Troy Williamson... Sunderland, England's Josh Kelly’s (13-2-1 including the World Series of Boxing) dethroned Troy Williamson (19-1-1, 14 KOs) for the British junior middleweight championship on Friday. Kelly outboxed Williamson en route to a unanimous decision, scored 118-110, 119-109 and 119-111 by the judges. The fight was shown live on England's Channel 5 from the Utilita Arena in Newcastle. Kelly was loose and fluid from the opening bell, both defensively and offensively. The left hook from Kelly caused problems throughout the night as it often landed flush. followed by a right uppercut, which proved to be a winning combination.
Williamson never once backed down from the uphill task of trying to keep his belt. After being dominated in the first round, he was immediately back off his stool to step towards ‘PBK’ and look to shut him down. Kelly proved to be far too switched on for Williamson to land any substantial blows however as the Sunderland man remained confident in circling his opponent from the outside.
The performance from the new champion, Kelly, was epitomized in the fifth round as a left hook and right hook had Troy scrambled for a moment. With a slight quiver in his opponent’s legs, Kelly was in no rush to blindly seek a finish. He remained aggressive and aware of any opportunity to present itself, but this was a different fighter existing in his own bubble on the night and he remained in control of his emotions and dictated the bout.
More highlights came for Kelly in the seventh round, as he employed a Muhammad Ali rope-a-dope style evasion. His confidence carried him in full control all the way towards the end of the fight as he remained calm, cool and collected with every second of every round.
With questions regarding his gas tank being asked in the build up to this fight, the eleventh round answered them all as Kelly opted to stand between rounds and pace around the ring. He was still spritely, and still so loose and active as he pulled out another tried and tested left hook with a right uppercut. Another mainstay in the fight was Kelly’s movement, constantly snapping jabs at lovely angles to then use his footwork to slide out of the way and leave Williamson turning to find him once again.
UNDERCARD RESULTS:
Lyndon Arthur defeated Joel McIntyre via stoppage in the second round...
Franklin Ignatius defeated Hosea Stewart via referee's decision, 58-56...
Joe Laws defeated Alexander Zeledon via referee's decision, 39-37...
Ben Marksby defeated Santiago Garces via referee's decision, 59-56...
Katharina Thanderz defeated Edina Kiss via referee's decision, 78-75...
Sheila Martinez defeated Jordan Barker-Porter via referee's decision, 60-54...
Ewan Mackenzie defeated Angel Emilov via referee's decision, 40-36...
Bobby Dalton defeated Joel Banderas via referee's decision, 40-37...
Travis Waters defeated Eligio Palacios via referee's decision, 40-36 and...
Adam Reichard defeated Claudio Baldomir via referee's decision - 39-38.
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A few words with light heavyweight Steven Nelson |
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Steven Nelson (17-0, 14 KOs), of Omaha, NE, is ready to square off against James Ballard (10-4, 3 KOs) on the Terence Crawford vs. David Avanesyan pay-per-view card taking place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on December 10th. Nelson vs. Ballard is scheduled for eight rounds in the light heavyweight divison. The show will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.
Nelson is fighting for the first time since a TKO victory over DeAndre Ware in September of 2020 following a torn Achilles tendon. A U.S. Army veteran, Nelson spent eight years working in satellite communications with the 7th Special Forces Group and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2008-2009. He then joined the Army’s World Class Athlete Program boxing team and was stationed in Colorado Springs prior to beginning his professional career. He is training alongside his lifelong friend and fellow Omaha native Crawford in their Colorado Springs training base in preparation for December 10. Here is what Nelson had to say about his training camp, his matchup with Ballard, fighting at home on BLK Prime PPV, and more.
On his recent training camp:
“Training camp has been going great. This is one of many camps that we’ve done together in Colorado Springs, but seeing how motivated Bud is and how hard he pushed us has made this camp really special for all of us. I’m coming off a torn Achilles that had me sidelined for two years, so I cannot wait to step back in the ring. It really feels like it is our team against the world. Bud and the coaches have made me step up my game. If you aren’t strong enough, you are not going to make it in this camp.”
On his matchup with James Ballard:
“I am going to smash Ballard, respectfully of course. I have had some setbacks, but I am one of the best fighters in my division. I am looking to win this fight and go after fighters like Edgar Berlanga and many others who have been avoiding me. I am taking Ballard extremely seriously, but I fully expect to stop him.”
On what a win will do for his career:
“Once I am victorious on December 10, I want all the top contenders in the division. But to do so, I have to put on a great performance in Omaha and remind the boxing world who I am. This reminds me of how I felt prior to the Reyes Diaz fight when I stopped him. He basically retired after that fight, and that is the type of performance I am going to do on December 10th. I am going to win and target all the big-name fighters."
On fighting on BLK Prime PPV at home:
“This is the first time I'll be fighting on PPV, so I'm very excited. Seeing the type of love BLK Prime is showing Bud, made me a fan. They're putting the fighters first, and I know the fans will get behind them, because they have good intentions and are paying the fighters for risking their lives. Getting the chance to fight at home on this BLK Prime PPV card is a blessing. I’m expecting a lot of hometown supporters and people I have met worldwide during my military career to be in attendance. The CHI Health Center is going to be electrifying on fight night."
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A few words with light heavyweight Steven Nelson
Steven Nelson (17-0, 14 KOs), of Omaha, NE, is ready to square off against James Ballard (10-4, 3 KOs) on the Terence Crawford vs. David Avanesyan pay-per-view card taking place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on December 10th. Nelson vs. Ballard is scheduled for eight rounds in the light heavyweight divison. The show will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.
Nelson is fighting for the first time since a TKO victory over DeAndre Ware in September of 2020 following a torn Achilles tendon. A U.S. Army veteran, Nelson spent eight years working in satellite communications with the 7th Special Forces Group and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2008-2009. He then joined the Army’s World Class Athlete Program boxing team and was stationed in Colorado Springs prior to beginning his professional career. He is training alongside his lifelong friend and fellow Omaha native Crawford in their Colorado Springs training base in preparation for December 10. Here is what Nelson had to say about his training camp, his matchup with Ballard, fighting at home on BLK Prime PPV, and more.
On his recent training camp:
“Training camp has been going great. This is one of many camps that we’ve done together in Colorado Springs, but seeing how motivated Bud is and how hard he pushed us has made this camp really special for all of us. I’m coming off a torn Achilles that had me sidelined for two years, so I cannot wait to step back in the ring. It really feels like it is our team against the world. Bud and the coaches have made me step up my game. If you aren’t strong enough, you are not going to make it in this camp.”
On his matchup with James Ballard:
“I am going to smash Ballard, respectfully of course. I have had some setbacks, but I am one of the best fighters in my division. I am looking to win this fight and go after fighters like Edgar Berlanga and many others who have been avoiding me. I am taking Ballard extremely seriously, but I fully expect to stop him.”
On what a win will do for his career:
“Once I am victorious on December 10, I want all the top contenders in the division. But to do so, I have to put on a great performance in Omaha and remind the boxing world who I am. This reminds me of how I felt prior to the Reyes Diaz fight when I stopped him. He basically retired after that fight, and that is the type of performance I am going to do on December 10th. I am going to win and target all the big-name fighters."
On fighting on BLK Prime PPV at home:
“This is the first time I'll be fighting on PPV, so I'm very excited. Seeing the type of love BLK Prime is showing Bud, made me a fan. They're putting the fighters first, and I know the fans will get behind them, because they have good intentions and are paying the fighters for risking their lives. Getting the chance to fight at home on this BLK Prime PPV card is a blessing. I’m expecting a lot of hometown supporters and people I have met worldwide during my military career to be in attendance. The CHI Health Center is going to be electrifying on fight night."
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Lights go out on boxing show in South Africa |
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Ayanda Mthembu NC Snamiso Ntuli ... On Sunday in Ulundi, South Africa, middleweight Ayanda Mthembu´s defense against Snamiso Ntuli was declared a no contest in the third round. Due to [electricity] load shedding in South Africa, the lights in the venue went on and off continuously during this bout, making things impossible for the boxers, and in round three it was decided that enough was enough. A rematch is possible next year. The WBF double-header was promoted by Ludonga Boxing Promotions.
Sabelo Cebekhulu TKO2 Mawande Matroos... Before the lights went out, bantamweight Sabelo Cebekhulu had little trouble dismantling countryman Mawande Matroos on the same card in Ulundi, South Africa. Cebekhulu (5-0) floored Matroos three times before referee Elroy Marshall called a halt to the bout in the second round. Cebekhulu was fighting for the first time this year. Matroos drops to 5-5-1 (2).
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Lights go out on boxing show in South Africa
Ayanda Mthembu NC Snamiso Ntuli ... On Sunday in Ulundi, South Africa, middleweight Ayanda Mthembu´s defense against Snamiso Ntuli was declared a no contest in the third round. Due to [electricity] load shedding in South Africa, the lights in the venue went on and off continuously during this bout, making things impossible for the boxers, and in round three it was decided that enough was enough. A rematch is possible next year. The WBF double-header was promoted by Ludonga Boxing Promotions.
Sabelo Cebekhulu TKO2 Mawande Matroos... Before the lights went out, bantamweight Sabelo Cebekhulu had little trouble dismantling countryman Mawande Matroos on the same card in Ulundi, South Africa. Cebekhulu (5-0) floored Matroos three times before referee Elroy Marshall called a halt to the bout in the second round. Cebekhulu was fighting for the first time this year. Matroos drops to 5-5-1 (2).
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Amateur boxing in Morocco gets a boost |
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During his visit to Morocco last week, IBA president Umar Kremlev took part in a press conference which announced the construction of the International Boxing Academy and announced the upcoming World Boxing Tour event, the Golden Belt Series tournament. ‘This is the Year of Africa, and we are doing our best to create [better boxing] conditions on this continent. Morocco should become a central hub for boxing for all of Africa. Morocco has all the conditions for this,’ Kremlev said. At the end of January 2023, the Golden Belt Series tournament will be held here, which promises to be a big international event for the country and will give impetus to the development of boxing in the country and across the continent. Kremlev held meetings with Chakib Ben Moussa, Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports, and visited the headquarters of the Moroccan National Olympic Committee in Rabat to meet President Fayçal Lariachi.
"We are glad to receive you in our country. Boxing plays a significant role in Morocco, and we welcome every opportunity to strengthen the sport. This Academy will open much more opportunities for athletes, coaches and officials," Ben Moussa said.
"We are proud of the Moroccan school of boxing, since athletics and boxing are the strongest sports in our country. We actively promote boxing to develop it as much as possible," Fayçal Lariachi claimed.
Together with local authorities and the boxing federation, IBA President inspected the sports venue where the future Academy will be located and met with young Moroccan boxers to gift them equipment. Kremlev also presented IBA 2-stars diplomas to referees and judges following their successful ending of their training course.
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Amateur boxing in Morocco gets a boost
During his visit to Morocco last week, IBA president Umar Kremlev took part in a press conference which announced the construction of the International Boxing Academy and announced the upcoming World Boxing Tour event, the Golden Belt Series tournament. ‘This is the Year of Africa, and we are doing our best to create [better boxing] conditions on this continent. Morocco should become a central hub for boxing for all of Africa. Morocco has all the conditions for this,’ Kremlev said. At the end of January 2023, the Golden Belt Series tournament will be held here, which promises to be a big international event for the country and will give impetus to the development of boxing in the country and across the continent. Kremlev held meetings with Chakib Ben Moussa, Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports, and visited the headquarters of the Moroccan National Olympic Committee in Rabat to meet President Fayçal Lariachi.
"We are glad to receive you in our country. Boxing plays a significant role in Morocco, and we welcome every opportunity to strengthen the sport. This Academy will open much more opportunities for athletes, coaches and officials," Ben Moussa said.
"We are proud of the Moroccan school of boxing, since athletics and boxing are the strongest sports in our country. We actively promote boxing to develop it as much as possible," Fayçal Lariachi claimed.
Together with local authorities and the boxing federation, IBA President inspected the sports venue where the future Academy will be located and met with young Moroccan boxers to gift them equipment. Kremlev also presented IBA 2-stars diplomas to referees and judges following their successful ending of their training course.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: Makhoba gets quality win over Paradero |
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Gcina Makhoba W12 Robert Paradero... After a twelve exciting rounds in Dundee, South Africa, Gcina Makhoba was declared the winner of his super flyweight bout on Saturday, defeating Filipino Robert Paradero. Makhoba started poorly as Paradero silenced the patriotic crowd by dropping Makhoba with a big right hand inside the first minute. However, the local man came back strong and returned the favor, flooring the visitor to even things up. The action continued in round two, with both men landing hard punches, and in round three Makhoba scored another knockdown to edge in front. From that point on, both men stayed on their feet, but the back-and-forth continued for nine more brutal rounds. When it was over, judges Edward Marshall and Pumeza Zinakile scored it 116-111, while judge Sipho Zondo had it 117-112, all for Makhoba, who improved his professional record to 9-1-1. Paradero, who previously lost two bids for WBA titles, drops to 18-4-1.
Michaela Kotaskova D10 Mahjouba Oubtil... Also on Saturday night, in Vienna, Austria, a women's welterweight fight between Italian-based Michaela Kotaskova (2-0-2) and Mahjouba Oubtil (4-2-1) ended in a majority draw. After a very even fight, judges Rainer Schwarz and Gerhard Sigl scored it five rounds each, 95-95, overruling the 96-94 score for the Austrian-based Kotaskova from judge Norbert Duernberger.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: Makhoba gets quality win over Paradero
Gcina Makhoba W12 Robert Paradero... After a twelve exciting rounds in Dundee, South Africa, Gcina Makhoba was declared the winner of his super flyweight bout on Saturday, defeating Filipino Robert Paradero. Makhoba started poorly as Paradero silenced the patriotic crowd by dropping Makhoba with a big right hand inside the first minute. However, the local man came back strong and returned the favor, flooring the visitor to even things up. The action continued in round two, with both men landing hard punches, and in round three Makhoba scored another knockdown to edge in front. From that point on, both men stayed on their feet, but the back-and-forth continued for nine more brutal rounds. When it was over, judges Edward Marshall and Pumeza Zinakile scored it 116-111, while judge Sipho Zondo had it 117-112, all for Makhoba, who improved his professional record to 9-1-1. Paradero, who previously lost two bids for WBA titles, drops to 18-4-1.
Michaela Kotaskova D10 Mahjouba Oubtil... Also on Saturday night, in Vienna, Austria, a women's welterweight fight between Italian-based Michaela Kotaskova (2-0-2) and Mahjouba Oubtil (4-2-1) ended in a majority draw. After a very even fight, judges Rainer Schwarz and Gerhard Sigl scored it five rounds each, 95-95, overruling the 96-94 score for the Austrian-based Kotaskova from judge Norbert Duernberger.
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Estrada defeats Gonzalez by majority decision |
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Juan Francisco Estrada W12 Roman Gonzalez... In Arizona, Juan Francisco Estrada defeated Roman "Chocolotito" Gonzalez for the WBC 115-pound championship. The twelve-round fight went the distance with Gonzalez falling behind early but rallying back in the second half of the contest. When the socrecards were consulted, the Mexican Estrada won a majority decision, via scores of 114-114, 116-112 and 115-113. This was the third fight of their storied rivalry and Estrada now holds bragging rights with two wins to the Nicaraguan Gonzalez's one. However, a fourth fight could happen in the future because both men are so popular and Gonzalez was arguably robbed of a win by poor judging in their second fight. "If he wants a fourth fight, I think we can do it," said Estrada afterwards.
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Estrada defeats Gonzalez by majority decision
Juan Francisco Estrada W12 Roman Gonzalez... In Arizona, Juan Francisco Estrada defeated Roman "Chocolotito" Gonzalez for the WBC 115-pound championship. The twelve-round fight went the distance with Gonzalez falling behind early but rallying back in the second half of the contest. When the socrecards were consulted, the Mexican Estrada won a majority decision, via scores of 114-114, 116-112 and 115-113. This was the third fight of their storied rivalry and Estrada now holds bragging rights with two wins to the Nicaraguan Gonzalez's one. However, a fourth fight could happen in the future because both men are so popular and Gonzalez was arguably robbed of a win by poor judging in their second fight. "If he wants a fourth fight, I think we can do it," said Estrada afterwards.
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As expected, Fury dominates Chisora |
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Tyson Fury TKO10 Derek Chisora... WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (33-0-1, 24 KOs) once again defeatied Derek Chisora (33-13, 23 KOs), this time via tenth-round technical knockout Saturday night at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. The two men had faced each other on two prior occasions, but this was the first time that a world title was on the line. Chisora began the fight in aggressive fashion, but Fury was able to find his distance, work the jab from the outside, and land quick combinations. This boded badly for the Zimbabwe-born challenger, who was hurt with vicious right hands in the following two rounds and even appeared to be on the verge of getting stopped early.
Fury then began to control the fight with much more ease, though Chisora did his best to connect to the body. In fact, according to CompuBox, the 38-year old managed to land a total of 70 body shots throughout the fight, more than any of Fury’s previous opponents.
Nevertheless, Fury was much more successful with his own offense, landing 50 percent or more of his power punches in seven of the 10 rounds. By round eight, there was visible swelling below Chisora’s right eye, and it was clear that his corner needed to put a halt to the fight. However, in the tenth round, Fury landed a crunching combination that forced Victor Loughlin to put a stop to the bout at 2:51 of the aforementioned round.
Fury said, “Firstly, I want to say thank you to my lord and savior Jesus Christ for giving me another victory tonight. Secondly, I just want to say what a fuc*ing crowd! Come on! 60,000 people here today. I love every single one of you people. You’re amazing. I’m flabbergasted for words to say how much it means to me.
“I felt good. I needed some rounds. I haven’t boxed since April. It’s been 8 or 9 months since then. I’ve been out of retirement. I’ve had a lot go on. I felt like I was landing my jab, landing some good punches. I take nothing away from Chisora. He’s an absolute warrior. It’s been a privilege to fight him three times. He’s an absolute British folk hero. What a warrior. What an African British warrior. We’ve done three epic fights, and what a tough man. I was hitting him with shots that would’ve knocked anybody else out, and he stood up to every one of them.”
Chisora said, “You know what, thanks to the ref. As a fighter, you don’t want to stop. You want to go out in your shield. Thank you, Tyson, I really appreciate this. There is a big fight coming up. Everyone wants to see one champion in the heavyweight division. The last one we had was Lennox Lewis. I would like to see him and Usyk in Saudi [Arabia]. That’s what we want to see now. That’s the fight we should make happen now.” Afterwards, Fury made it clear he's eyeing a four-belt world titles unification fight for 2023. He said, “I’m ready to take on [Oleksandr] Usyk next. Let’s give the fans one champion, one name, one face!” Usyk, who holds the other three major titles, was in attendance and the two champions engaged in a post-fight staredown.
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As expected, Fury dominates Chisora
Tyson Fury TKO10 Derek Chisora... WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (33-0-1, 24 KOs) once again defeatied Derek Chisora (33-13, 23 KOs), this time via tenth-round technical knockout Saturday night at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. The two men had faced each other on two prior occasions, but this was the first time that a world title was on the line. Chisora began the fight in aggressive fashion, but Fury was able to find his distance, work the jab from the outside, and land quick combinations. This boded badly for the Zimbabwe-born challenger, who was hurt with vicious right hands in the following two rounds and even appeared to be on the verge of getting stopped early.
Fury then began to control the fight with much more ease, though Chisora did his best to connect to the body. In fact, according to CompuBox, the 38-year old managed to land a total of 70 body shots throughout the fight, more than any of Fury’s previous opponents.
Nevertheless, Fury was much more successful with his own offense, landing 50 percent or more of his power punches in seven of the 10 rounds. By round eight, there was visible swelling below Chisora’s right eye, and it was clear that his corner needed to put a halt to the fight. However, in the tenth round, Fury landed a crunching combination that forced Victor Loughlin to put a stop to the bout at 2:51 of the aforementioned round.
Fury said, “Firstly, I want to say thank you to my lord and savior Jesus Christ for giving me another victory tonight. Secondly, I just want to say what a fuc*ing crowd! Come on! 60,000 people here today. I love every single one of you people. You’re amazing. I’m flabbergasted for words to say how much it means to me.
“I felt good. I needed some rounds. I haven’t boxed since April. It’s been 8 or 9 months since then. I’ve been out of retirement. I’ve had a lot go on. I felt like I was landing my jab, landing some good punches. I take nothing away from Chisora. He’s an absolute warrior. It’s been a privilege to fight him three times. He’s an absolute British folk hero. What a warrior. What an African British warrior. We’ve done three epic fights, and what a tough man. I was hitting him with shots that would’ve knocked anybody else out, and he stood up to every one of them.”
Chisora said, “You know what, thanks to the ref. As a fighter, you don’t want to stop. You want to go out in your shield. Thank you, Tyson, I really appreciate this. There is a big fight coming up. Everyone wants to see one champion in the heavyweight division. The last one we had was Lennox Lewis. I would like to see him and Usyk in Saudi [Arabia]. That’s what we want to see now. That’s the fight we should make happen now.” Afterwards, Fury made it clear he's eyeing a four-belt world titles unification fight for 2023. He said, “I’m ready to take on [Oleksandr] Usyk next. Let’s give the fans one champion, one name, one face!” Usyk, who holds the other three major titles, was in attendance and the two champions engaged in a post-fight staredown.
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JC Martinez still champ after majority decision win |
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Julio Cesar Martinez W12 Samuel Carmona... In Arizona, Julio Cesar Martinez retained the WBC flyweight title via majority decision over Samuel Carmona of Spain. In the first two rounds, Martinez landed combinations against the solid jab of Carmona, who also landed one overhand right in the second. In the third round, Martinez rocked Carmona in the final seconds with a combination to the chin, and Carmona went into retreat. In the fourth round, Carmona continued to move around the ring laterally, but Martinez would catch up to him with a two-fisted attack. In the sixth through the eighth rounds, Martinez had problems cutting off the ring, but still landed more than Carmona, who rarely used his right hand. In the ninth, the fans booed Carmona's running around the ring, landing a few punches. In the tenth and eleventh rounds, Martinez had an edge when Carmona finally and briefly stood in front of him, momentarily trading punches. In the twelfth and final round, it was close. Though Carmona was a relatively late replacement and an inexperienced pro, the former Olympian saw the fight through to the final bell. One judge scored it a draw, 114-114, but was overruled by the other two cards, which favored Martinez by 117-111 and 116-112.
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JC Martinez still champ after majority decision win
Julio Cesar Martinez W12 Samuel Carmona... In Arizona, Julio Cesar Martinez retained the WBC flyweight title via majority decision over Samuel Carmona of Spain. In the first two rounds, Martinez landed combinations against the solid jab of Carmona, who also landed one overhand right in the second. In the third round, Martinez rocked Carmona in the final seconds with a combination to the chin, and Carmona went into retreat. In the fourth round, Carmona continued to move around the ring laterally, but Martinez would catch up to him with a two-fisted attack. In the sixth through the eighth rounds, Martinez had problems cutting off the ring, but still landed more than Carmona, who rarely used his right hand. In the ninth, the fans booed Carmona's running around the ring, landing a few punches. In the tenth and eleventh rounds, Martinez had an edge when Carmona finally and briefly stood in front of him, momentarily trading punches. In the twelfth and final round, it was close. Though Carmona was a relatively late replacement and an inexperienced pro, the former Olympian saw the fight through to the final bell. One judge scored it a draw, 114-114, but was overruled by the other two cards, which favored Martinez by 117-111 and 116-112.
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Dubois survives three knockdowns to stop Lerena |
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Daniel Dubois TKO3 Kevin Lerena ... Fighting in his hometown, Daniel Dubois retained his WBA regular heavyweight title by defeating South Africa's Kevin Lerena after getting knocked down three times in the first round. Dubois had a difficult start as a counter left hook wobbled him and sent him to the canvas. The hard-hitting heavyweight then took a knee due to a right ankle injury and visited the canvas once more before the round ended. In the second round, Dubois began to find his rhythm and even managed to hurt Lerena with a counter right uppercut followed by a left hook. In the following round, Dubois dropped Lerena with a straight right hand before ending matters with a fight-finishing flurry. Dubois' win saw his record improve to 19-1. Lerena falls to 28-2. Their fight served as the chief support for Tyson Fury vs. Derk Chisora III at north London's Tottenham Stadium.
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Dubois survives three knockdowns to stop Lerena
Daniel Dubois TKO3 Kevin Lerena ... Fighting in his hometown, Daniel Dubois retained his WBA regular heavyweight title by defeating South Africa's Kevin Lerena after getting knocked down three times in the first round. Dubois had a difficult start as a counter left hook wobbled him and sent him to the canvas. The hard-hitting heavyweight then took a knee due to a right ankle injury and visited the canvas once more before the round ended. In the second round, Dubois began to find his rhythm and even managed to hurt Lerena with a counter right uppercut followed by a left hook. In the following round, Dubois dropped Lerena with a straight right hand before ending matters with a fight-finishing flurry. Dubois' win saw his record improve to 19-1. Lerena falls to 28-2. Their fight served as the chief support for Tyson Fury vs. Derk Chisora III at north London's Tottenham Stadium.
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Berinchyk wins European lightweight title |
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Denys Berinchyk W12 Yvan Mendy ... On the big show at Tottenham Stadium, Ukrainian Olympic silver medalist Denys Berinchyk (17-0, 9 KOs) maintained his undefeated status and won the European lightweight title with a twelve-round unanimous decision victory against Yvan Mendy (47-6-1, 22 KOs) of France. The official scores favored Berinchyk by 117-112 and 116-112 (twice).
ADDITIONAL RESULTS: Light heavyweight Karol Itauma (9-0, 7 KOs) scored a technical knockout win over Vladimir Belujsky (12-6-1, 8 KOs) at 1:18 of the eighth round... In the lightweight division, 18-year old Royston Barney Smith (4-0, 2 KOs) defeated Cruz Perez (3-4, 1 KO) via knockout in the first round. Time of stoppage was 1:02
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Berinchyk wins European lightweight title
Denys Berinchyk W12 Yvan Mendy ... On the big show at Tottenham Stadium, Ukrainian Olympic silver medalist Denys Berinchyk (17-0, 9 KOs) maintained his undefeated status and won the European lightweight title with a twelve-round unanimous decision victory against Yvan Mendy (47-6-1, 22 KOs) of France. The official scores favored Berinchyk by 117-112 and 116-112 (twice).
ADDITIONAL RESULTS: Light heavyweight Karol Itauma (9-0, 7 KOs) scored a technical knockout win over Vladimir Belujsky (12-6-1, 8 KOs) at 1:18 of the eighth round... In the lightweight division, 18-year old Royston Barney Smith (4-0, 2 KOs) defeated Cruz Perez (3-4, 1 KO) via knockout in the first round. Time of stoppage was 1:02
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Boxingtalk's Sunday fight predictions |
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Here are Boxingtalk's Sunday fight predictions, courtesy of MB Boxing Official:
Joey Canoy (18-5-2) vs. Kenichi Horikawa (41-17-1) (light flyweights) … Prediction: Canoy by split decision;
Marco John Rementizo (13-3) vs. Goki Kobayashi (4-0) (minimumweights) … Prediction: Kobayashi by mid-round knockout;
Daiki Tomita (18-2) vs. Rikito Shiba (6-2) (light flyweights) … Prediction: Tomita by clear unanimous decision;
Jonathan Taconing (29-5-1) vs. Kazuki Anaguchi (3-0) (bantamweights) … Prediction: Anaguchi by clear unanimous decision;
Angel Daniel Garcia Molina (13-0) vs. Miguel Angel Torres Nunez (12-0) (super featherweights) … Prediction: Nunez by clear unanimous decision;
Damian Sosa (21-1) vs. Juan Ruiz (27-7) (junior middleweights) … Prediction: Sosa by clear unanimous decision;
Ricardo Espinoza Franco (27-4) vs. Edgard Alor (14-3-1) (super bantamweights) … Prediction: Franco by mid to late knockout;
Erik Robles Ayala (11-1) vs. Jesus Riegos Rivas (15-1) (super bantamweights) … Prediction: Ayala by clear unanimous decision.
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Boxingtalk's Sunday fight predictions
Here are Boxingtalk's Sunday fight predictions, courtesy of MB Boxing Official:
Joey Canoy (18-5-2) vs. Kenichi Horikawa (41-17-1) (light flyweights) … Prediction: Canoy by split decision;
Marco John Rementizo (13-3) vs. Goki Kobayashi (4-0) (minimumweights) … Prediction: Kobayashi by mid-round knockout;
Daiki Tomita (18-2) vs. Rikito Shiba (6-2) (light flyweights) … Prediction: Tomita by clear unanimous decision;
Jonathan Taconing (29-5-1) vs. Kazuki Anaguchi (3-0) (bantamweights) … Prediction: Anaguchi by clear unanimous decision;
Angel Daniel Garcia Molina (13-0) vs. Miguel Angel Torres Nunez (12-0) (super featherweights) … Prediction: Nunez by clear unanimous decision;
Damian Sosa (21-1) vs. Juan Ruiz (27-7) (junior middleweights) … Prediction: Sosa by clear unanimous decision;
Ricardo Espinoza Franco (27-4) vs. Edgard Alor (14-3-1) (super bantamweights) … Prediction: Franco by mid to late knockout;
Erik Robles Ayala (11-1) vs. Jesus Riegos Rivas (15-1) (super bantamweights) … Prediction: Ayala by clear unanimous decision.
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Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions |
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Here are Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions, courtesy of MB Boxing Official:
Tyson Fury (32-0-1) vs. Derek Chisora (33-12) III (WBC heavyweight championship) … Prediction: Fury by late knockout;
Juan Francisco Estrada (43-3) vs. Roman Gonzalez (51-3) III (Vacant WBC super flyweight Championship) … Prediction: Gonzalez by majority decision;
Julio Cesar Martinez (18-2) vs. Samuel Carmona (8-0) (WBC flyweight Title) … Prediction: Martinez by mid-round knockout;
Daniel Dubois (18-1) vs. Kevin Lerena (28-1) (WBA regular heavyweight title) … Prediction: Dubois by mid-round knockout;
John Riel Casimero (31-4) vs. Ryo Akaho (39-2-2) (super bantamweights) … Prediction: Casimero by early to mid-round knockout;
Jon Fernandez (23-2) vs. Samuel Molina (22-2) (junior welterweights) … Prediction: Fernandez by mid to late knockout;
Yvan Mendy (47-5-1) vs. Denys Berinchyk (16-0) (EBU lightweight Title) … Prediction: Berinchyk by clear unanimous decision;
Daniela Asenjo (12-3-3) vs. Linda Laura Lecca (15-4-2) (IBO super flyweight title) … Prediction: Asenjo by clear unanimous decision;
Howik Bebraham (19-2) vs. Alex Rat (15-5-2) (lightweights) … Prediction: Bebraham by close unanimous decision;
Edi Delibaltaoglu (10-5) vs. Huseyin Akdemir (12-2) (heavyweights) … Prediction: Delibaltaoglu by early knockout;
David Khachatryan (4-0) vs. Vincenzo Finiello (15-5-2) (lightweights) … Prediction: Khacgarryan by clear unanimous decision;
Freddy Kiwitt (22-3) vs. Ali Hasso (5-1) (junior middleweights) … Prediction: Kiwitt by wide unanimous decision;
Reiya Abe (23-3-1) vs. Jinki Maeda (10-0) (featherweights) … Prediction: Abe by close unanimous decision;
Victor Reyes Bernabe (20-2-1) vs. Lamberto Macias (16-6-1) (bantamweights) … Prediction: Bernabe by clear unanimous decision;
Hugo Alberto Castaneda Marroquin (10-0) vs. Maykol Mendoza (10-1) (junior welterweights) … Prediction: Marroquin by early knockout;
Jhonny Gonzalez (69-11-1) vs. Takuya Watanabe (38-11-1) (super featherweights) … Prediction: Watanabe by close unanimous decision;
Karol Itauma (8-0) vs. Vladimir Beluhsky (12-5-1) (light heavyweights) … Prediction: Itauma by wide unanimous decision;
Isaac Lowe (21-2-3) vs. Sandeep Singh Bhatti (8-4) (super featherweights) … Prediction: Lowe by wide unanimous decision;
Joselito Velasquez (15-0-1) vs. Cristofer Rosales (34-6) (flyweights) … Prediction: Rosales by clear unanimous decision;
Diego Pacheco (16-0) vs. Rcardo Adrian Luna (24-8-2) (super middleweights) … Prediction: Pacheco by early to mid-round knockout;
Marc Castro (8-0) vs. Maickol Lopez Villagrana (16-3) (super featherweights) … Prediction: Castro by late knockout; and
Robert Garcia (45-5) vs. Edward Ulloa Diaz (13-3) (middleweights) … Prediction: Garcia by mid-round knockout.
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Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions
Here are Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions, courtesy of MB Boxing Official:
Tyson Fury (32-0-1) vs. Derek Chisora (33-12) III (WBC heavyweight championship) … Prediction: Fury by late knockout;
Juan Francisco Estrada (43-3) vs. Roman Gonzalez (51-3) III (Vacant WBC super flyweight Championship) … Prediction: Gonzalez by majority decision;
Julio Cesar Martinez (18-2) vs. Samuel Carmona (8-0) (WBC flyweight Title) … Prediction: Martinez by mid-round knockout;
Daniel Dubois (18-1) vs. Kevin Lerena (28-1) (WBA regular heavyweight title) … Prediction: Dubois by mid-round knockout;
John Riel Casimero (31-4) vs. Ryo Akaho (39-2-2) (super bantamweights) … Prediction: Casimero by early to mid-round knockout;
Jon Fernandez (23-2) vs. Samuel Molina (22-2) (junior welterweights) … Prediction: Fernandez by mid to late knockout;
Yvan Mendy (47-5-1) vs. Denys Berinchyk (16-0) (EBU lightweight Title) … Prediction: Berinchyk by clear unanimous decision;
Daniela Asenjo (12-3-3) vs. Linda Laura Lecca (15-4-2) (IBO super flyweight title) … Prediction: Asenjo by clear unanimous decision;
Howik Bebraham (19-2) vs. Alex Rat (15-5-2) (lightweights) … Prediction: Bebraham by close unanimous decision;
Edi Delibaltaoglu (10-5) vs. Huseyin Akdemir (12-2) (heavyweights) … Prediction: Delibaltaoglu by early knockout;
David Khachatryan (4-0) vs. Vincenzo Finiello (15-5-2) (lightweights) … Prediction: Khacgarryan by clear unanimous decision;
Freddy Kiwitt (22-3) vs. Ali Hasso (5-1) (junior middleweights) … Prediction: Kiwitt by wide unanimous decision;
Reiya Abe (23-3-1) vs. Jinki Maeda (10-0) (featherweights) … Prediction: Abe by close unanimous decision;
Victor Reyes Bernabe (20-2-1) vs. Lamberto Macias (16-6-1) (bantamweights) … Prediction: Bernabe by clear unanimous decision;
Hugo Alberto Castaneda Marroquin (10-0) vs. Maykol Mendoza (10-1) (junior welterweights) … Prediction: Marroquin by early knockout;
Jhonny Gonzalez (69-11-1) vs. Takuya Watanabe (38-11-1) (super featherweights) … Prediction: Watanabe by close unanimous decision;
Karol Itauma (8-0) vs. Vladimir Beluhsky (12-5-1) (light heavyweights) … Prediction: Itauma by wide unanimous decision;
Isaac Lowe (21-2-3) vs. Sandeep Singh Bhatti (8-4) (super featherweights) … Prediction: Lowe by wide unanimous decision;
Joselito Velasquez (15-0-1) vs. Cristofer Rosales (34-6) (flyweights) … Prediction: Rosales by clear unanimous decision;
Diego Pacheco (16-0) vs. Rcardo Adrian Luna (24-8-2) (super middleweights) … Prediction: Pacheco by early to mid-round knockout;
Marc Castro (8-0) vs. Maickol Lopez Villagrana (16-3) (super featherweights) … Prediction: Castro by late knockout; and
Robert Garcia (45-5) vs. Edward Ulloa Diaz (13-3) (middleweights) … Prediction: Garcia by mid-round knockout.
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Estrada vs. Gonzalez III fight day has arrived! |
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Juan Francisco Estrada is ready to step through the ropes to face his old foe Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez for the third time tonight (Saturday) at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, live on DAZN – and the Mexican ace thinks their fights are so good, that we could even be treated to a fourth installment. Estrada (43-3 28 KOs) goes against the Nicaraguan great with the WBC 115-pound title on the line in a mouth-watering third edition of their rivalry that began over a decade ago.
The Mexican dropped down to 108 pounds to face Chocolatito in his first world title fight in November 2012, and although he lost in Los Angeles on points, the then 22 year-old Estrada’s stock rose following his performance. He won a world title in his next fight in April 2013 against Brian Viloria at flyweight and later claimed super flyweight titles that he successfully defended against Chocolatito in their rematch in Dallas in March 2021.
A third fight is an early Christmas present for all fight fans as both men expect to pick up where they left off in their thrilling Texas battle, and while they will always be in demand for other fights in the lighter weights, Estrada enjoys this friendly combat with his future Hall of Fame foe so much that he would entertain an incredible fourth rumble.
“We’ve had a great training camp and I’m desperate to get in the ring for the trilogy with Román,” said Estrada. “I’m happy and I feel it will be a great fight like the last two.
“He beat me in 2012 and I beat him in the second fight, so you could say this is the decider. There might be a fourth like Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Márquez, who knows? We’ll have our trilogy, and we don’t know whether it will end here or not. We’re going to find out who is the best, who will be leading in fights won and if in the future, God willing, there is a fourth, bring it on.
“The first fight was my first fight in the US, my first fight at Light-Flyweight. I was a Flyweight and had to drop down for this World title shot. It was a great fight.
“To be honest I felt good, but the weight affected me. I didn’t feel strong. But when the fight started, from rounds 1 to 12, we gave it everything. At that time, he was the champion, one of the best pound-for-pound fighters and he got the decision. I was a nobody. We put on a great fight, I felt that I won that fight by a few points, but he got it.
“Given the fight we put on, we got more opportunities. We fought Brian Viloria at Flyweight and you could say it was the fight that made me famous in boxing, it put my name out there.
“When we got to face Chocolatito again, it was at Super-Flyweight. Once again, we gave it everything. It was an extremely tough fight for both of us. Thankfully I was awarded the victory. It was a great fight and now we’re going for that trilogy.
“He’ll be a Hall of Famer. He’s a fighter that has won many titles in four divisions. I respect him as a fighter, and you could say he’s has had a very different career to mine. I’ve also won titles, but I think he’s a great fighter and in the fights we’ve had. I think he’s also realized that I’m not just any other fighter and when we fight now, we’ll decide who is the best.
“I think that friendship outside the ring is good. It’s important because I was invited over to Nicaragua by his team, and we had a great time. We didn’t even go over the previous fight or mention the one that’s coming up. We behaved like colleagues, friends, we stayed together, ate together. It was all very normal.
“When you’re told you’re going to fight Chocolatito, there is a rivalry there but it’s sporting. It’s not like. “I’m going to kill him!” that’s a different way of feeling. You’re more focused on having a good training camp so that you can beat him.
“In the ring I’d say he’s my enemy but once the fight is over, we’ll hug, come out of the ring, talk to each other and we’ll wish each other good health and we’ll be on our way.
“I’ve seen other fighters who’ll come to blows even at the weigh-in or the press conference. I don’t like to do that and neither does Román. We’re different. We display our rivalry in the ring, and I think that’s what people admire and respect about us.
“This fight is important because it’s the trilogy against a fighter who will be in the Hall of Fame. There’s no doubt that this fight is the most important of my career because imagine beating Román González. You wouldn’t be taking anything from him, but I’d be in his position.”
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Estrada vs. Gonzalez III fight day has arrived!
Juan Francisco Estrada is ready to step through the ropes to face his old foe Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez for the third time tonight (Saturday) at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, live on DAZN – and the Mexican ace thinks their fights are so good, that we could even be treated to a fourth installment. Estrada (43-3 28 KOs) goes against the Nicaraguan great with the WBC 115-pound title on the line in a mouth-watering third edition of their rivalry that began over a decade ago.
The Mexican dropped down to 108 pounds to face Chocolatito in his first world title fight in November 2012, and although he lost in Los Angeles on points, the then 22 year-old Estrada’s stock rose following his performance. He won a world title in his next fight in April 2013 against Brian Viloria at flyweight and later claimed super flyweight titles that he successfully defended against Chocolatito in their rematch in Dallas in March 2021.
A third fight is an early Christmas present for all fight fans as both men expect to pick up where they left off in their thrilling Texas battle, and while they will always be in demand for other fights in the lighter weights, Estrada enjoys this friendly combat with his future Hall of Fame foe so much that he would entertain an incredible fourth rumble.
“We’ve had a great training camp and I’m desperate to get in the ring for the trilogy with Román,” said Estrada. “I’m happy and I feel it will be a great fight like the last two.
“He beat me in 2012 and I beat him in the second fight, so you could say this is the decider. There might be a fourth like Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Márquez, who knows? We’ll have our trilogy, and we don’t know whether it will end here or not. We’re going to find out who is the best, who will be leading in fights won and if in the future, God willing, there is a fourth, bring it on.
“The first fight was my first fight in the US, my first fight at Light-Flyweight. I was a Flyweight and had to drop down for this World title shot. It was a great fight.
“To be honest I felt good, but the weight affected me. I didn’t feel strong. But when the fight started, from rounds 1 to 12, we gave it everything. At that time, he was the champion, one of the best pound-for-pound fighters and he got the decision. I was a nobody. We put on a great fight, I felt that I won that fight by a few points, but he got it.
“Given the fight we put on, we got more opportunities. We fought Brian Viloria at Flyweight and you could say it was the fight that made me famous in boxing, it put my name out there.
“When we got to face Chocolatito again, it was at Super-Flyweight. Once again, we gave it everything. It was an extremely tough fight for both of us. Thankfully I was awarded the victory. It was a great fight and now we’re going for that trilogy.
“He’ll be a Hall of Famer. He’s a fighter that has won many titles in four divisions. I respect him as a fighter, and you could say he’s has had a very different career to mine. I’ve also won titles, but I think he’s a great fighter and in the fights we’ve had. I think he’s also realized that I’m not just any other fighter and when we fight now, we’ll decide who is the best.
“I think that friendship outside the ring is good. It’s important because I was invited over to Nicaragua by his team, and we had a great time. We didn’t even go over the previous fight or mention the one that’s coming up. We behaved like colleagues, friends, we stayed together, ate together. It was all very normal.
“When you’re told you’re going to fight Chocolatito, there is a rivalry there but it’s sporting. It’s not like. “I’m going to kill him!” that’s a different way of feeling. You’re more focused on having a good training camp so that you can beat him.
“In the ring I’d say he’s my enemy but once the fight is over, we’ll hug, come out of the ring, talk to each other and we’ll wish each other good health and we’ll be on our way.
“I’ve seen other fighters who’ll come to blows even at the weigh-in or the press conference. I don’t like to do that and neither does Román. We’re different. We display our rivalry in the ring, and I think that’s what people admire and respect about us.
“This fight is important because it’s the trilogy against a fighter who will be in the Hall of Fame. There’s no doubt that this fight is the most important of my career because imagine beating Román González. You wouldn’t be taking anything from him, but I’d be in his position.”
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JC Martinez defends title tonight on DAZN |
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Julio Cesar Martinez wants to unleash his frustrations out on Samuel Carmona when he defends his WBC flyweight title for the fifth time at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, live worldwide on DAZN. Martinez (18-2 14 KOs) was was set to face long-running rival McWilliams Arroyo in a rematch, but neck and back issues ruled the Puerto Rican out, opening the door for Carmona to land his first world title shot. The unbeaten Spaniard, who represented his country in the 2016 Olympic Games, has cruised to 8-0 in the paid ranks since turning pro in September 2019.
Martinez, who is back in action for the first time since challenging one half of the headline fight, Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez in March, has also been itching to get unification fights in the books against IBF champion Sunny Edwards and WBA king Artem Dalakian but as yet to no avail. ‘El Rey’ remains focused on the job at hand though, to keep hold of his famous green and gold belt, and in turn, putting pressure on his fellow champions to meet him in the ring. “We weren’t expecting this fight, but we were preparing for any type of fighter, a technical boxer, a come-forward fighter,” said Martinez. “Now we’ve got an ex-Olympian, we’re prepared and as always, we’re willing to give everything in the ring."
He continued, “I’ve not seen a great deal of him, but he has also fought Joel Cordova like I have, and I’ve seen that he can take shots and can also come forward. At times he really likes to trade but it’s going to be a good fight and let’s see what he brings and how he counter punches. I never underestimate my opponents because we know that it’s all about hunger and desire and everyone comes to win, nobody comes to lose. We know that everyone comes to get their victory and like always, I’ll leave everything in the ring, and we’ll never discredit any opponent. As I always say, I’ll fight anyone anywhere. We’re ready for whatever comes and if he likes, we can fight whenever Arroyo wants to. We’re ready to win. But what most interests me is to unify titles and go after the other belts. I want to unify, to go after the other champions. There are various champions and a vacant WBO title, so there are various belts that I would like and I’m ready to fight for them."
“I’ve never ducked anyone. We’ve been ready for a while to unify and go for all those belts. I would like the Edwards fight. It’s what we’re looking for, those big fights and more than anything to unify and go after all those belts. I’ll fight anybody anywhere.
“I also want to go up to super flyweight but I want to do all I can at flyweight. There are various options and fortunately we’re in good shape. So, we want to do all we can at flyweight and then go up to super flyweight. As I always say, wherever and with whoever, we come to fight.
“I felt good at 115 pounds. I’ve even fought up at super bantamweight because fortunately I adapt well and more than anything I feel strong, tough and consistent at that weight. I think I could even fight up at Bantamweight with God’s blessing and if I look after myself.”
Martinez’s desire to achieve greatness is not surprising given the company he keeps daily. The 27-year old trains alongside Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez in San Diego, and having teamed up fulltime with Eddy Reynoso, who also manages Martinez, the all-action champion believes the improvements he’s made in California will be on full display. “Like my colleague Canelo, I’m going for all the belts,” said Martinez. I want to be a unified champion and more than anything to leave a legacy. I worked with Eddy Reynoso for four months for this camp. He is my trainer now and we’re putting a lot of effort and dedication into camp so that things go well, and we can go after all those belts. Being constantly with Eddy is the difference now. We work on technique and on many things which are helping us. We’re improving in terms of defence, technique in many things. It motivates me a great deal to train alongside Saúl and more than anything I don’t want to let my team down and I’ll keep giving my all. It’s very different working with Eddy. It’s that attention he gives you. He looks out for everything. We’re not missing anything out, examining every detail and thankfully I’ve been well looked after by Eddy. With God’s blessing we’re going in with everything except fear, against whoever wherever because we are men, not clowns. Thank you for supporting me. We won’t let you down.”
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JC Martinez defends title tonight on DAZN
Julio Cesar Martinez wants to unleash his frustrations out on Samuel Carmona when he defends his WBC flyweight title for the fifth time at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, live worldwide on DAZN. Martinez (18-2 14 KOs) was was set to face long-running rival McWilliams Arroyo in a rematch, but neck and back issues ruled the Puerto Rican out, opening the door for Carmona to land his first world title shot. The unbeaten Spaniard, who represented his country in the 2016 Olympic Games, has cruised to 8-0 in the paid ranks since turning pro in September 2019.
Martinez, who is back in action for the first time since challenging one half of the headline fight, Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez in March, has also been itching to get unification fights in the books against IBF champion Sunny Edwards and WBA king Artem Dalakian but as yet to no avail. ‘El Rey’ remains focused on the job at hand though, to keep hold of his famous green and gold belt, and in turn, putting pressure on his fellow champions to meet him in the ring. “We weren’t expecting this fight, but we were preparing for any type of fighter, a technical boxer, a come-forward fighter,” said Martinez. “Now we’ve got an ex-Olympian, we’re prepared and as always, we’re willing to give everything in the ring."
He continued, “I’ve not seen a great deal of him, but he has also fought Joel Cordova like I have, and I’ve seen that he can take shots and can also come forward. At times he really likes to trade but it’s going to be a good fight and let’s see what he brings and how he counter punches. I never underestimate my opponents because we know that it’s all about hunger and desire and everyone comes to win, nobody comes to lose. We know that everyone comes to get their victory and like always, I’ll leave everything in the ring, and we’ll never discredit any opponent. As I always say, I’ll fight anyone anywhere. We’re ready for whatever comes and if he likes, we can fight whenever Arroyo wants to. We’re ready to win. But what most interests me is to unify titles and go after the other belts. I want to unify, to go after the other champions. There are various champions and a vacant WBO title, so there are various belts that I would like and I’m ready to fight for them."
“I’ve never ducked anyone. We’ve been ready for a while to unify and go for all those belts. I would like the Edwards fight. It’s what we’re looking for, those big fights and more than anything to unify and go after all those belts. I’ll fight anybody anywhere.
“I also want to go up to super flyweight but I want to do all I can at flyweight. There are various options and fortunately we’re in good shape. So, we want to do all we can at flyweight and then go up to super flyweight. As I always say, wherever and with whoever, we come to fight.
“I felt good at 115 pounds. I’ve even fought up at super bantamweight because fortunately I adapt well and more than anything I feel strong, tough and consistent at that weight. I think I could even fight up at Bantamweight with God’s blessing and if I look after myself.”
Martinez’s desire to achieve greatness is not surprising given the company he keeps daily. The 27-year old trains alongside Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez in San Diego, and having teamed up fulltime with Eddy Reynoso, who also manages Martinez, the all-action champion believes the improvements he’s made in California will be on full display. “Like my colleague Canelo, I’m going for all the belts,” said Martinez. I want to be a unified champion and more than anything to leave a legacy. I worked with Eddy Reynoso for four months for this camp. He is my trainer now and we’re putting a lot of effort and dedication into camp so that things go well, and we can go after all those belts. Being constantly with Eddy is the difference now. We work on technique and on many things which are helping us. We’re improving in terms of defence, technique in many things. It motivates me a great deal to train alongside Saúl and more than anything I don’t want to let my team down and I’ll keep giving my all. It’s very different working with Eddy. It’s that attention he gives you. He looks out for everything. We’re not missing anything out, examining every detail and thankfully I’ve been well looked after by Eddy. With God’s blessing we’re going in with everything except fear, against whoever wherever because we are men, not clowns. Thank you for supporting me. We won’t let you down.”
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Top Rank signs undefeated welterweight Brian Norman Jr. |
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Top Rank has signed undefeated Atlanta-born welterweight Brian Norman Jr. to a multi-fight promotional agreement. He will make his Top Rank debut on Saturday, Jan. 14th, at Turning Stone Resort Casino on the ESPN+ undercard of the heavyweight main event between Efe Ajagba and Oscar Rivas. The 22 year-old Norman (22-0, 19 KOs) comes from a fighting pedigree. His father and trainer, Brian Norman Sr., fought the likes of former light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal during a 28-fight professional career that lasted from 2003 through 2011. The younger Norman has gained invaluable experience in the gym working alongside Terence “Bud” Crawford, Gervonta “Tank” Davis, and Jaron “Boots” Ennis.
He turned pro in January 2018 and went 11-0 in his first year in the paid ranks. Norman bested Flavio Rodriguez by technical decision in March 2020, earning a hard-fought victory on a nationally televised card. He won four fights in 2021, including a fifth-round TKO over Benjamin Whitaker and a trio of knockout victories in Atlanta. Norman, who hopes to leap toward title contention in 2023, is managed by Fighters First Management.
Norman said, “I’m thankful for this opportunity. I worked hard to get here and will work even harder to push my limits. January 14th will be my first fight in over a year, so I have to put on a big show. I’m doing everything in training camp to make sure I exceed my own expectations.”
“This is our first fighter signed with a major promotional company, and we couldn't be any happier that it is Top Rank,” said Jolene Mizzone, President of Fighters First Management. “We look forward to working together and getting Brian Norman, Jr. to that championship level."
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Top Rank signs undefeated welterweight Brian Norman Jr.
Top Rank has signed undefeated Atlanta-born welterweight Brian Norman Jr. to a multi-fight promotional agreement. He will make his Top Rank debut on Saturday, Jan. 14th, at Turning Stone Resort Casino on the ESPN+ undercard of the heavyweight main event between Efe Ajagba and Oscar Rivas. The 22 year-old Norman (22-0, 19 KOs) comes from a fighting pedigree. His father and trainer, Brian Norman Sr., fought the likes of former light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal during a 28-fight professional career that lasted from 2003 through 2011. The younger Norman has gained invaluable experience in the gym working alongside Terence “Bud” Crawford, Gervonta “Tank” Davis, and Jaron “Boots” Ennis.
He turned pro in January 2018 and went 11-0 in his first year in the paid ranks. Norman bested Flavio Rodriguez by technical decision in March 2020, earning a hard-fought victory on a nationally televised card. He won four fights in 2021, including a fifth-round TKO over Benjamin Whitaker and a trio of knockout victories in Atlanta. Norman, who hopes to leap toward title contention in 2023, is managed by Fighters First Management.
Norman said, “I’m thankful for this opportunity. I worked hard to get here and will work even harder to push my limits. January 14th will be my first fight in over a year, so I have to put on a big show. I’m doing everything in training camp to make sure I exceed my own expectations.”
“This is our first fighter signed with a major promotional company, and we couldn't be any happier that it is Top Rank,” said Jolene Mizzone, President of Fighters First Management. “We look forward to working together and getting Brian Norman, Jr. to that championship level."
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Top Rank also signs junior welterweight Rohan Polanco |
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Top Rank has signed undefeated junior welterweight Rohan Polanco of the Dominican Republic to a multi-fight promotional agreement. Polanco will make hisr Top Rank debut on Saturday, Jan. 14th at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York on the ESPN+ undercard of the heavyweight main event between Efe Ajagba and Oscar Rivas. A 21201 Olympian, Polanco (8-0, 5 KOs) turned pro before the Tokyo Olympics and went 4-0 with two knockouts in Mexico and the Dominican Republic. In his opening Olympic bout, he lost a split decision to Uzbekistan’s Bobo-Usmon Baturov. “El Rayo” made his stateside debut last November, knocking out Gabriel Fernando Punalef Calfin in three rounds. Two weeks later, he won a unanimous decision over Jonathan Jose Eniz. Polanco won two fights in 2022, most recently knocking out noted Dedrick Bell with a second-round body shot.
Polanco said, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to sign with Top Rank. I’ve devoted my life to boxing, and I’m blessed to share my talent at this level. I’ll step in the ring again January 14th at Turning Stone, and I look forward to putting on a show for the fans. I want to thank God, my family, my trainer Hector Bermudez, my manager Gary Hyde, and all my supporters along the way. If you don’t know my name, you’re going to know it soon. See you in January!”
“I’m delighted Rohan signed with the best promoter in boxing,” Hyde said. “I’m sure Top Rank will guide my guy to the top, and he will soon be in the mix of an already exciting 140-pound division.”
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Top Rank also signs junior welterweight Rohan Polanco
Top Rank has signed undefeated junior welterweight Rohan Polanco of the Dominican Republic to a multi-fight promotional agreement. Polanco will make hisr Top Rank debut on Saturday, Jan. 14th at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York on the ESPN+ undercard of the heavyweight main event between Efe Ajagba and Oscar Rivas. A 21201 Olympian, Polanco (8-0, 5 KOs) turned pro before the Tokyo Olympics and went 4-0 with two knockouts in Mexico and the Dominican Republic. In his opening Olympic bout, he lost a split decision to Uzbekistan’s Bobo-Usmon Baturov. “El Rayo” made his stateside debut last November, knocking out Gabriel Fernando Punalef Calfin in three rounds. Two weeks later, he won a unanimous decision over Jonathan Jose Eniz. Polanco won two fights in 2022, most recently knocking out noted Dedrick Bell with a second-round body shot.
Polanco said, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to sign with Top Rank. I’ve devoted my life to boxing, and I’m blessed to share my talent at this level. I’ll step in the ring again January 14th at Turning Stone, and I look forward to putting on a show for the fans. I want to thank God, my family, my trainer Hector Bermudez, my manager Gary Hyde, and all my supporters along the way. If you don’t know my name, you’re going to know it soon. See you in January!”
“I’m delighted Rohan signed with the best promoter in boxing,” Hyde said. “I’m sure Top Rank will guide my guy to the top, and he will soon be in the mix of an already exciting 140-pound division.”
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Spotlight on Vianello vs. Shaw |
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ESPN will have an interesting co-feature between two heavyweight hopefuls on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023 when Top Rank promotes a show at theTurning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. The ten-round co-feature will see 2016 Italian Olympian Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello take a step up in class against unbeaten American Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw. The main event that night will also feature heavyweights as big-punching Olympians Efe “The Silent Roller” Ajagba and Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas collide. Ajagba-Rivas and Vianello-Shaw will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Vianello, the fighting pride of Rome, went 6-5 in AIBA's professional World Series of Boxing competition. He began his current pro campaign in December 2018 and has gone 10-0-1 since then, including winning the first seven by stoppage in three rounds or less. His momentum stalled following a 2020 draw against Kingsley Ibeh and an injury-plagued 2021 that saw him fight once. Vianello came back in July and knocked out Rafael Rios in four rounds. Three months later, he returned home to Rome and pleased the local fans with a dominating eight-round decision over Jay McFarlane.
Vianello said, “Stephan Shaw is a good, undefeated fighter, but I fight better when presented with top opposition. I look forward to fighting on ESPN as part of a great heavyweight doubleheader.”
Shaw (18-0, 13 KOs), from St. Louis, is a 6’4, 235-pound boxer-puncher who has knocked out three of his last four foes. He made his Top Rank debut in January, becoming only the third man to knock out Philadelphia’s iron-chinned Joey Dawejko. Shaw tallied three knockdowns in just 2:35 to wipe out Bernardo Marquez in July and then preserved his date against Vianello with an eight-round shutout over Rydell Booker on Nov. 22nd in New York City. Shaw will receive his nationally televised opportunity a decade removed from winning U.S. National and National PAL gold medals as an amateur. “I’m excited. This is my time to shine. This is my moment,” Shaw said. “I’m ready to go out and there and have some fun. I won’t be under the radar after beating Guido. He’s a good boxer, but I am superior. I will prove that on January 14th.”
The undercard also includes a ten-round junior lightweight tilt between Adam “BluNose” Lopez and Abraham “El Super” Nova (21-1, 15 KOs). Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Albany, New York, Nova is returning to the junior lightweight ranks after briefly testing the featherweight waters. Last January at Turning Stone, Nova knocked out late replacement William Encarnacion in the eighth round. That knockout led to an ESPN-televised co-feature in June against southpaw Cuban dynamo Robeisy Ramirez at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. After four competitive rounds, Ramirez knocked Nova out with a left hand in the fifth. Nova returns to the friendly Turning Stone confines against Lopez (16-3, 6 KOs), a native of Glendale, California, who is making his junior lightweight debut. Lopez last fought in May against Encarnacion, surviving knockdowns in the first and third rounds to eke out an eight-round unanimous decision.
In other undercard action, junior featherweight Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (8-0, 3 KOs), the 19 year-old who went 5-0 with three stoppages in 2022, will fight in his first scheduled eight-rounder...
Junior welterweight prospect Bryce Mills (10-1, 4 KOs), the local favorite from Liverpool, New York, aims to increase his winning streak to five against Margarito Hernandez (3-3-1) in a six-rounder...
Cleveland-born light heavyweight Dante Benjamin Jr. (4-0, 2 KOs) fights in his first scheduled six-rounder against fellow unbeaten Emmanueal Austin (6-0, 6 KOs) and...
Junior lightweight Haven Brady Jr. (8-0, 4 KOs), who won four fights in 2022, makes his 2023 debut in an eight-rounder against an opponent to be named.
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Spotlight on Vianello vs. Shaw
ESPN will have an interesting co-feature between two heavyweight hopefuls on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023 when Top Rank promotes a show at theTurning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. The ten-round co-feature will see 2016 Italian Olympian Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello take a step up in class against unbeaten American Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw. The main event that night will also feature heavyweights as big-punching Olympians Efe “The Silent Roller” Ajagba and Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas collide. Ajagba-Rivas and Vianello-Shaw will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Vianello, the fighting pride of Rome, went 6-5 in AIBA's professional World Series of Boxing competition. He began his current pro campaign in December 2018 and has gone 10-0-1 since then, including winning the first seven by stoppage in three rounds or less. His momentum stalled following a 2020 draw against Kingsley Ibeh and an injury-plagued 2021 that saw him fight once. Vianello came back in July and knocked out Rafael Rios in four rounds. Three months later, he returned home to Rome and pleased the local fans with a dominating eight-round decision over Jay McFarlane.
Vianello said, “Stephan Shaw is a good, undefeated fighter, but I fight better when presented with top opposition. I look forward to fighting on ESPN as part of a great heavyweight doubleheader.”
Shaw (18-0, 13 KOs), from St. Louis, is a 6’4, 235-pound boxer-puncher who has knocked out three of his last four foes. He made his Top Rank debut in January, becoming only the third man to knock out Philadelphia’s iron-chinned Joey Dawejko. Shaw tallied three knockdowns in just 2:35 to wipe out Bernardo Marquez in July and then preserved his date against Vianello with an eight-round shutout over Rydell Booker on Nov. 22nd in New York City. Shaw will receive his nationally televised opportunity a decade removed from winning U.S. National and National PAL gold medals as an amateur. “I’m excited. This is my time to shine. This is my moment,” Shaw said. “I’m ready to go out and there and have some fun. I won’t be under the radar after beating Guido. He’s a good boxer, but I am superior. I will prove that on January 14th.”
The undercard also includes a ten-round junior lightweight tilt between Adam “BluNose” Lopez and Abraham “El Super” Nova (21-1, 15 KOs). Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Albany, New York, Nova is returning to the junior lightweight ranks after briefly testing the featherweight waters. Last January at Turning Stone, Nova knocked out late replacement William Encarnacion in the eighth round. That knockout led to an ESPN-televised co-feature in June against southpaw Cuban dynamo Robeisy Ramirez at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. After four competitive rounds, Ramirez knocked Nova out with a left hand in the fifth. Nova returns to the friendly Turning Stone confines against Lopez (16-3, 6 KOs), a native of Glendale, California, who is making his junior lightweight debut. Lopez last fought in May against Encarnacion, surviving knockdowns in the first and third rounds to eke out an eight-round unanimous decision.
In other undercard action, junior featherweight Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (8-0, 3 KOs), the 19 year-old who went 5-0 with three stoppages in 2022, will fight in his first scheduled eight-rounder...
Junior welterweight prospect Bryce Mills (10-1, 4 KOs), the local favorite from Liverpool, New York, aims to increase his winning streak to five against Margarito Hernandez (3-3-1) in a six-rounder...
Cleveland-born light heavyweight Dante Benjamin Jr. (4-0, 2 KOs) fights in his first scheduled six-rounder against fellow unbeaten Emmanueal Austin (6-0, 6 KOs) and...
Junior lightweight Haven Brady Jr. (8-0, 4 KOs), who won four fights in 2022, makes his 2023 debut in an eight-rounder against an opponent to be named.
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Weigh-in report from London |
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Here are the weights for the two big heavyweight fights in at the Tottenham Hostspur Stadium in north London:
WBC heavyweight championship
Tyson Fury 268 pounds, 10 ounces –vs.- Derek Chisora, 260 pounds, 10 ounces;
WBA regular heavyweight title
Daniel Dubois, 240 pounds, 5 ounces.–vs.- Kevin Lerena, 230 pounds, 15 ounces.
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Weigh-in report from London
Here are the weights for the two big heavyweight fights in at the Tottenham Hostspur Stadium in north London:
WBC heavyweight championship
Tyson Fury 268 pounds, 10 ounces –vs.- Derek Chisora, 260 pounds, 10 ounces;
WBA regular heavyweight title
Daniel Dubois, 240 pounds, 5 ounces.–vs.- Kevin Lerena, 230 pounds, 15 ounces.
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