Martinez ready to give Ioka his rematch |
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This Sunday, May 11th, early in the morning in the United States, fireworks are expected in Tokyo as Argentina’s Fernando “Puma” Martínez (pictured) and Japan’s Kazuto Ioka square off in a long-anticipated rematch at the Ota City General Gymnasium. On the line: Martínez’s WBA super flyweight world title—and a shot at redemption for Ioka. Martinez previously held the IBF title and defeated Ioka last July to unify two titles. He elected a road rematch vs. Ioka rather than the IBF mandatory. Martínez, the relentless pressure fighter out of Argentina, has turned heads in the boxing world with his all-action style, sheer punch volume, and tireless engine. Undefeated as a pro, he burst onto the scene by dominating ex-champ Jerwin Ancajas not once, but twice, announcing himself as a force to be reckoned with at 115 pounds. Known for breaking opponents down with suffocating pressure and non-stop combinations, “Puma” comes into this fight with confidence—and a target on his back.
Standing in his way is Ioka, one of Japan’s most decorated fighters and a master technician with world titles in four weight classes. Ioka is looking to rewrite the ending after losing a unanimous decision to Martínez a year ago, a fight in which he surrendered the WBA belt he now hopes to reclaim. At age 35, Ioka knows this could be his last shot at the top.
The match-up hinges on two critical factors: Martínez’s ability to close the distance and smother Ioka with his trademark volume, and Ioka’s counterpunching and surgical accuracy. If Ioka can time Martínez’s charges and find space to work, he may be able to neutralize the Argentine’s aggression. But if Martínez turns up the heat early and keeps the pressure cooking, the Japanese veteran could find himself drowning in leather once again. Beyond the title at stake, this is a fight with major implications for the super flyweight division. A win would catapult Martínez further into the international spotlight, while an Ioka victory would further raise his legacy as one of Japan’s all-time greats.
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Martinez ready to give Ioka his rematch
This Sunday, May 11th, early in the morning in the United States, fireworks are expected in Tokyo as Argentina’s Fernando “Puma” Martínez (pictured) and Japan’s Kazuto Ioka square off in a long-anticipated rematch at the Ota City General Gymnasium. On the line: Martínez’s WBA super flyweight world title—and a shot at redemption for Ioka. Martinez previously held the IBF title and defeated Ioka last July to unify two titles. He elected a road rematch vs. Ioka rather than the IBF mandatory. Martínez, the relentless pressure fighter out of Argentina, has turned heads in the boxing world with his all-action style, sheer punch volume, and tireless engine. Undefeated as a pro, he burst onto the scene by dominating ex-champ Jerwin Ancajas not once, but twice, announcing himself as a force to be reckoned with at 115 pounds. Known for breaking opponents down with suffocating pressure and non-stop combinations, “Puma” comes into this fight with confidence—and a target on his back.
Standing in his way is Ioka, one of Japan’s most decorated fighters and a master technician with world titles in four weight classes. Ioka is looking to rewrite the ending after losing a unanimous decision to Martínez a year ago, a fight in which he surrendered the WBA belt he now hopes to reclaim. At age 35, Ioka knows this could be his last shot at the top.
The match-up hinges on two critical factors: Martínez’s ability to close the distance and smother Ioka with his trademark volume, and Ioka’s counterpunching and surgical accuracy. If Ioka can time Martínez’s charges and find space to work, he may be able to neutralize the Argentine’s aggression. But if Martínez turns up the heat early and keeps the pressure cooking, the Japanese veteran could find himself drowning in leather once again. Beyond the title at stake, this is a fight with major implications for the super flyweight division. A win would catapult Martínez further into the international spotlight, while an Ioka victory would further raise his legacy as one of Japan’s all-time greats.
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Today: Lubin faces Holmes in IBF eliminator |
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What started as a professional rivalry between Erickson Lubin (pictured) and Ardreal Holmes got personal during a heated head-to-head in March. The two fighters faced off at a public workout in Las Vegas and tempers flared between the former amateur rivals and now, on Saturday, May 10th, they will meet at the Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, Florida, in an eliminator for the IBF’s junior middleweight title. The 154-pound division is one of boxing’s most stacked, with the likes of Vergil Ortiz, Sebastian Fundora, and Bakhram Muratazaliev – current IBF champion – jostling for position. Lubin defeated Holmes on points in the amateurs, and Holmes now wants revenge in the pros, staking his unbeaten 17-0 record to prove that he is the better man.
There’s a women’s world title fight on the card with unbeaten WBA junior featherweight champion Nazarena Romero defending her title against Mayelli Flores.
Also on the show, there are also fights for light heavyweight Najee Lopez, welterweight Nicklaus Flaz, junior middleweight Darelle Valsaint and junior lightweight Dominic Valle.
Lopez, who is 13-0, meets Juan Gerardo Osuna (22-2), while the Puerto Rican Flaz (14-2) goes up against Alan Sanchez (24-6-1). Meanwhile, Valsaint (12-0) takes on Rodolfo Orozco (33-4-3) and Valle (10-0) goes in with Brandon Valdes (15-5).
Brazilian super middleweight talent Herbert Conceicao Sousa (6-0), is paired with California veteran Rowdy Legend Montgomery (11-6-1) and LaVonte Earley (18-0) will be hoping to steal the show against heavy-hitting southpaw Jorge de Jesus (13-1).
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Today: Lubin faces Holmes in IBF eliminator
What started as a professional rivalry between Erickson Lubin (pictured) and Ardreal Holmes got personal during a heated head-to-head in March. The two fighters faced off at a public workout in Las Vegas and tempers flared between the former amateur rivals and now, on Saturday, May 10th, they will meet at the Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, Florida, in an eliminator for the IBF’s junior middleweight title. The 154-pound division is one of boxing’s most stacked, with the likes of Vergil Ortiz, Sebastian Fundora, and Bakhram Muratazaliev – current IBF champion – jostling for position. Lubin defeated Holmes on points in the amateurs, and Holmes now wants revenge in the pros, staking his unbeaten 17-0 record to prove that he is the better man.
There’s a women’s world title fight on the card with unbeaten WBA junior featherweight champion Nazarena Romero defending her title against Mayelli Flores.
Also on the show, there are also fights for light heavyweight Najee Lopez, welterweight Nicklaus Flaz, junior middleweight Darelle Valsaint and junior lightweight Dominic Valle.
Lopez, who is 13-0, meets Juan Gerardo Osuna (22-2), while the Puerto Rican Flaz (14-2) goes up against Alan Sanchez (24-6-1). Meanwhile, Valsaint (12-0) takes on Rodolfo Orozco (33-4-3) and Valle (10-0) goes in with Brandon Valdes (15-5).
Brazilian super middleweight talent Herbert Conceicao Sousa (6-0), is paired with California veteran Rowdy Legend Montgomery (11-6-1) and LaVonte Earley (18-0) will be hoping to steal the show against heavy-hitting southpaw Jorge de Jesus (13-1).
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A few words with Massachusetts' Anthony “ATV” Velazquez |
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t was only appropriate that former baseball prospect, junior middleweight prospect Anthony “ATV” Velazquez (17-0-1, 14 KOs), recently pitched a shutout in his last fight on April 26th at home in Springfield, Massachusett's MassMutual Center. The 29 year-old Velazquez won every round on each of the three judges’ scorecards against Yusuph “Mr. Mwanza” Metu (11-2, 8 KOs) for ten-round unanimous decision victory in the main event. Metu, age 32, fought for the first time in the United States, only the second outside of his native Tanzania, while Velazquez was headlining at home for the second time in his last three fights, both at MassMutual Center, in front of his loyal, growing fanbase.
“I thought I was going to stop him a couple of times,” Velazquez said, “but he was very tough. I thought that the referee or his corner was going to stop the fight. He took a beating and survived, hats off to him, he’s a survivor. I didn’t expect the fight to go to a decision but that’s boxing. I usually stop my opponents early. I did what I had to do and beat him every single round. It was another good turnout with a lot of my fans there supporting me. I definitely felt the energy. I think I even gained more fans that night.”
Velazquez is already back training in the gym, only taking a week off, and he hopes to return to action in July. “My manager, Gunther Feingold, always talks with me about my future,” Velazquez added. “I want big fights, and it’ll happen when I sign with a promoter. I’m getting signed and Gunther will know when the time is right. I trust him. I’m always ready for a challenge and the opponents my manager puts me in with. He pushes me to get better, and my future is meant to happen.”
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A few words with Massachusetts' Anthony “ATV” Velazquez
t was only appropriate that former baseball prospect, junior middleweight prospect Anthony “ATV” Velazquez (17-0-1, 14 KOs), recently pitched a shutout in his last fight on April 26th at home in Springfield, Massachusett's MassMutual Center. The 29 year-old Velazquez won every round on each of the three judges’ scorecards against Yusuph “Mr. Mwanza” Metu (11-2, 8 KOs) for ten-round unanimous decision victory in the main event. Metu, age 32, fought for the first time in the United States, only the second outside of his native Tanzania, while Velazquez was headlining at home for the second time in his last three fights, both at MassMutual Center, in front of his loyal, growing fanbase.
“I thought I was going to stop him a couple of times,” Velazquez said, “but he was very tough. I thought that the referee or his corner was going to stop the fight. He took a beating and survived, hats off to him, he’s a survivor. I didn’t expect the fight to go to a decision but that’s boxing. I usually stop my opponents early. I did what I had to do and beat him every single round. It was another good turnout with a lot of my fans there supporting me. I definitely felt the energy. I think I even gained more fans that night.”
Velazquez is already back training in the gym, only taking a week off, and he hopes to return to action in July. “My manager, Gunther Feingold, always talks with me about my future,” Velazquez added. “I want big fights, and it’ll happen when I sign with a promoter. I’m getting signed and Gunther will know when the time is right. I trust him. I’m always ready for a challenge and the opponents my manager puts me in with. He pushes me to get better, and my future is meant to happen.”
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Thorslund bidding for third belt vs. Metcalf |
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WBC / WBO bantamweight champion Dina Thorslund of Denmark (pictured) will clash with IBF champion Shurretta Metcalf in a unification bout, which will take place on July 11th at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This historic all-women’s card stars the third fight between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, presented by MVP Promotions. Thorslund (23-0) comes into this fight after successfully defending her titles last October, easily defeating Japanese fighter Terumi Nuki. Metcalf (14-4-1), who is from Dallas, meanwhile, spent her last year and a half clocking two wins over ex-champ Miyo Yoshida in New York City.
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Thorslund bidding for third belt vs. Metcalf
WBC / WBO bantamweight champion Dina Thorslund of Denmark (pictured) will clash with IBF champion Shurretta Metcalf in a unification bout, which will take place on July 11th at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This historic all-women’s card stars the third fight between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, presented by MVP Promotions. Thorslund (23-0) comes into this fight after successfully defending her titles last October, easily defeating Japanese fighter Terumi Nuki. Metcalf (14-4-1), who is from Dallas, meanwhile, spent her last year and a half clocking two wins over ex-champ Miyo Yoshida in New York City.
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Mayweather Sues Reporter for $100M |
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Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. has filed a defamation lawsuit in New York federal court against Business Insider journalist Daniel Geiger and Insider, Inc., alleging they have waged a sustained campaign against him consisting of false reporting, harassment and racial bias. Mayweather claims the alleged defamnation has caused him over $100 million in damages. According to Mayweather's complaint, Geiger began targeting Mayweather in March 2025 with aggressive and intrusive reporting tactics related to the boxer’s real estate ventures, including affordable housing investments in New York. Mayweather’s legal team argues that Geiger published false and defamatory claims that questioned Mayweather’s ownership stake in a $400 million property deal. The suit asserts that Geiger ignored closing documents, refused multiple invitations to review records, and instead relied on anonymous sources with alleged personal grudges.
The lawsuit details not only the article’s claimed inaccuracies but also what Mayweather describes as a pattern of personal harassment. Between early and mid-March, he says Geiger made hundreds of phone calls—often late at night—to Mayweather’s business associates, friends, and family. In one instance, Geiger reportedly accused an advisor of being an “imposter” based on his voice, a claim later repeated in print.
Mayweather’s team also alleges that Geiger’s actions were driven by racial and political animus. The complaint points to disparaging remarks allegedly made by Geiger, including questioning how a “school-dropout boxer” could afford New York real estate, and expressing disbelief that someone would “work for a black guy in real estate.” Geiger’s public social media behavior and political views—specifically, his opposition to Donald Trump and criticism of Mayweather’s pro-Trump and pro-Israel stances—are cited as further evidence of bias and “actual malice.”
The Business Insider article at the center of the case, titled “Floyd Mayweather Jr. bragged about a $400 million property deal. There’s just one problem,” allegedly caused significant reputational and financial damage. Mayweather claims the article led to lost leases, delayed investments, and rent concessions—compounding losses and reducing the value of his portfolio by tens of millions.
The lawsuit brings three causes of action: defamation (libel), intentional infliction of emotional distress, and prima facie tort, and it seeks no less than $100 million in damages. Mayweather is also asking the court for punitive damages, a public retraction, an injunction against further harassment, and attorneys’ fees.
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Mayweather Sues Reporter for $100M
Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. has filed a defamation lawsuit in New York federal court against Business Insider journalist Daniel Geiger and Insider, Inc., alleging they have waged a sustained campaign against him consisting of false reporting, harassment and racial bias. Mayweather claims the alleged defamnation has caused him over $100 million in damages. According to Mayweather's complaint, Geiger began targeting Mayweather in March 2025 with aggressive and intrusive reporting tactics related to the boxer’s real estate ventures, including affordable housing investments in New York. Mayweather’s legal team argues that Geiger published false and defamatory claims that questioned Mayweather’s ownership stake in a $400 million property deal. The suit asserts that Geiger ignored closing documents, refused multiple invitations to review records, and instead relied on anonymous sources with alleged personal grudges.
The lawsuit details not only the article’s claimed inaccuracies but also what Mayweather describes as a pattern of personal harassment. Between early and mid-March, he says Geiger made hundreds of phone calls—often late at night—to Mayweather’s business associates, friends, and family. In one instance, Geiger reportedly accused an advisor of being an “imposter” based on his voice, a claim later repeated in print.
Mayweather’s team also alleges that Geiger’s actions were driven by racial and political animus. The complaint points to disparaging remarks allegedly made by Geiger, including questioning how a “school-dropout boxer” could afford New York real estate, and expressing disbelief that someone would “work for a black guy in real estate.” Geiger’s public social media behavior and political views—specifically, his opposition to Donald Trump and criticism of Mayweather’s pro-Trump and pro-Israel stances—are cited as further evidence of bias and “actual malice.”
The Business Insider article at the center of the case, titled “Floyd Mayweather Jr. bragged about a $400 million property deal. There’s just one problem,” allegedly caused significant reputational and financial damage. Mayweather claims the article led to lost leases, delayed investments, and rent concessions—compounding losses and reducing the value of his portfolio by tens of millions.
The lawsuit brings three causes of action: defamation (libel), intentional infliction of emotional distress, and prima facie tort, and it seeks no less than $100 million in damages. Mayweather is also asking the court for punitive damages, a public retraction, an injunction against further harassment, and attorneys’ fees.
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WTF? WBA recognizes Romero as regular welterweight champ |
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Rolly Romero held a media roundtable in Los Angeles on Wednesday to discuss his triumph over Ryan Garcia and more. [Although not posted on the official WBA rankings, an article on the WBA website recognized Romero as the WBA [regular] welterweight champion with Jaron "Boots" Ennis listed as the WBA super champion. Neither Romero nor Garcia had ever campaigned at welterweight, and Garcia was coming off a suspension for PEDs and should not have been rewarded with a WBA title shot]. Romero, a former WBA 140-pound title holder, earned a unanimous decision over the betting favorite Garcia. Romero scored the highlight of the night by connecting on a pair of left hooks in round two that dropped Garcia and set the tone for the rest of the bout.
Romero rode that early knockdown and a consistent body attack to the victory, landing 45 of his 57 total punches landed to the body, according to CompuBox stats. He also showed impressive defensive prowess, limiting the usually explosive Garcia to just 18 power punches landed across the twelve rounds. Romero also appeared on stage Wednesday and was recognized for his achievements before the start of the press conference for the May 31 PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video event headlined by Caleb Plant vs. Armando Reséndiz and Jermall Charlo vs. Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna. Here is what Romero had to say Wednesday from The Mayan in Los Angeles:
“I have two losses and they both came from big fights [Tank Davis, Isaac Cruz]. Those losses haven’t derailed me from anything. They can’t slow me down. Every time you think I’m gone, I’m gonna come back again and again…These other guys are fighting for the money, but I fight for belts and for legacy.
“If Ryan wants to do a rematch we can do it. I don’t know if he’s mentally ready for a rematch and I know he has other obligations. I don’t know if people are too interested in seeing that other rematch, but if you have obligations, you should honor your obligations.
“I know Ryan too well. I knew exactly how he was gonna come and where he was gonna come. I think even he was surprised with how well I knew him.
“I neutralized his left hook. The second he threw one left hook, what happened? He got dropped and he never threw it again. The only reason he didn’t get knocked out is because he was fighting to survive.
“When I was fighting at 135, I really should have been at 140, and then when I was at 140, I really should have been at 147. I was calling out Errol Spence Jr. and wanted to skip 140. I should have been at 147 for a very long time. I think it’s apparent. I mean how do I move up in weight and get a lot faster and more explosive. You usually get slower when you move up in weight.
“You didn’t really see me have to box early on in my career, because I was flatlining people in the first few rounds.
“The jab to the body is the money punch to me. That punch will break down anyone little by little. I’ve dropped people with it.
“Ryan gave me his best. That was a focused Ryan Garcia. He didn’t do any of the stuff that he had done for his last night. Is anyone saying he wasn’t focused in camp? That’s because Ryan takes me seriously. He knows me.
“Anything regarding me being the face of boxing I agree with.”
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WTF? WBA recognizes Romero as regular welterweight champ
Rolly Romero held a media roundtable in Los Angeles on Wednesday to discuss his triumph over Ryan Garcia and more. [Although not posted on the official WBA rankings, an article on the WBA website recognized Romero as the WBA [regular] welterweight champion with Jaron "Boots" Ennis listed as the WBA super champion. Neither Romero nor Garcia had ever campaigned at welterweight, and Garcia was coming off a suspension for PEDs and should not have been rewarded with a WBA title shot]. Romero, a former WBA 140-pound title holder, earned a unanimous decision over the betting favorite Garcia. Romero scored the highlight of the night by connecting on a pair of left hooks in round two that dropped Garcia and set the tone for the rest of the bout.
Romero rode that early knockdown and a consistent body attack to the victory, landing 45 of his 57 total punches landed to the body, according to CompuBox stats. He also showed impressive defensive prowess, limiting the usually explosive Garcia to just 18 power punches landed across the twelve rounds. Romero also appeared on stage Wednesday and was recognized for his achievements before the start of the press conference for the May 31 PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video event headlined by Caleb Plant vs. Armando Reséndiz and Jermall Charlo vs. Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna. Here is what Romero had to say Wednesday from The Mayan in Los Angeles:
“I have two losses and they both came from big fights [Tank Davis, Isaac Cruz]. Those losses haven’t derailed me from anything. They can’t slow me down. Every time you think I’m gone, I’m gonna come back again and again…These other guys are fighting for the money, but I fight for belts and for legacy.
“If Ryan wants to do a rematch we can do it. I don’t know if he’s mentally ready for a rematch and I know he has other obligations. I don’t know if people are too interested in seeing that other rematch, but if you have obligations, you should honor your obligations.
“I know Ryan too well. I knew exactly how he was gonna come and where he was gonna come. I think even he was surprised with how well I knew him.
“I neutralized his left hook. The second he threw one left hook, what happened? He got dropped and he never threw it again. The only reason he didn’t get knocked out is because he was fighting to survive.
“When I was fighting at 135, I really should have been at 140, and then when I was at 140, I really should have been at 147. I was calling out Errol Spence Jr. and wanted to skip 140. I should have been at 147 for a very long time. I think it’s apparent. I mean how do I move up in weight and get a lot faster and more explosive. You usually get slower when you move up in weight.
“You didn’t really see me have to box early on in my career, because I was flatlining people in the first few rounds.
“The jab to the body is the money punch to me. That punch will break down anyone little by little. I’ve dropped people with it.
“Ryan gave me his best. That was a focused Ryan Garcia. He didn’t do any of the stuff that he had done for his last night. Is anyone saying he wasn’t focused in camp? That’s because Ryan takes me seriously. He knows me.
“Anything regarding me being the face of boxing I agree with.”
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Shields announces next heavyweight defense |
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Heavyweight champion Claressa Shields announced on social media that she will be defending her undisputed world titles against IBF light heavyweight champion Lani Daniels of New Zealand. The fight will take place in Little Ceasar's Arena in Detroit, Michigan, which is Shield's home state. The 36 year-old Daniels is 11-2-2 and formerly held the IBF heavyweight title (which starts above 175 pounds for women) but vacated that to move down to light heavyweight.
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Shields announces next heavyweight defense
Heavyweight champion Claressa Shields announced on social media that she will be defending her undisputed world titles against IBF light heavyweight champion Lani Daniels of New Zealand. The fight will take place in Little Ceasar's Arena in Detroit, Michigan, which is Shield's home state. The 36 year-old Daniels is 11-2-2 and formerly held the IBF heavyweight title (which starts above 175 pounds for women) but vacated that to move down to light heavyweight.
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Navarrete vs. Suarez final presser quotes |
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Emanuel "Vaquero" Navarrete (pictured, 39-2-1, 32 KOs) will defend his WBO junior lightweight title against Charly Suarez (18-0, 10 KOs) this Saturday at Pechanga Arena San in Diego, the latest chapter in the Mexico vs. Philippines fistic saga. In the co-feature, SoCal native Raymond Muratalla (22-0, 17 KOs) and Russia’s Zaur Abdullaev (20-1, 12 KOs) will collide for the vacant IBF interim lightweight title. Navarrete-Suarez and Muratalla-Abdullaev will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The ESPN+-streamed undercard will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and features the return of junior lightweight Andres Cortes (22-0, 12 KOs), who takes on Spain's Salvador Jimenez (14-1-1, 6 KOs) in a ten-rounder.
Additionally, San Diego's hometown hero Giovani Santillan (33-1, 18 KOs) will square off against Mexico's Angel Beltran (18-2, 11 KOs) in a ten-round welterweight clash, while newly-signed 19 year-old junior bantamweight Perla Bazaldua (1-0, 1 KO) makes her Top Rank debut in a four-rounder against Mona Ward (0-1). Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale via AXS.com.
At Thursday's press conference, this is what the fighters said:
Emanuel Navarrete
“My performance against Oscar Valdez was my way of showing that I’m now at 100 percent. There’s no doubt about that now. So, all we have to do is prepare well to achieve my goals.”
“We know what happened the last time I was in San Diego. We did not get the victory. We lost against Denys Berinchyk in our attempt to win a title at 135 pounds. But now, defending at 130 pounds, we want to let the people know I’m ready to move forward with my career.”
“I prepared for a great fight. We know that Suarez is coming for my title. So I want a great fight so everyone can see I’m ready to continue on the path of victory.”
“We have to defend my title first. We’re going to work hard and take the title home. After, we’ll see if I stay at 130 or move up again.”
Charly Suarez
“I prayed for this fight. And here it is. The opportunity has come, and I have taken it. And we won’t lose.”
“I’m bringing all my amateur experience into this fight. This is it. The world title shot is here, so I’m ready and I’m excited for the fight on Saturday.”
“This is a good opportunity for me to represent my country and to show the world that Filipinos are good at boxing and that Filipinos and Mexicans put on great fights.”
Raymond Muratalla
“I’m ready to go. It’s been a long time. I’ve been putting in work. My time is here. So I’m shining on Saturday.”
“We know he’s tough. We know he’s coming to fight. But I'm fully prepared for whatever he brings.”
“A win on Saturday would be huge for my family and team. I’ve been dreaming of this since I was a kid.”
Zaur Abdullaev
“I’m happy to return to the United States after five years. And I’m ready to finally become a world champion.”
“I started my training camp out in the mountains. And I finished camp out here in California. I’m ready to do anything to win.”
“Muratalla is a very good fighter. I’ve watched many of his fights. But I’m ready to overcome this challenge.”
Andres Cortes
“There’s level to this. I’m going to show that I’m at the top.”
“I dream about this every night. I’ve dedicated my whole life to this sport. This is what I do. So, I’m ready to get back in there.”
“When you bet on me, it’s a guaranteed bet. If you want to make some money, take me by knockout.”
Salvador Jimenez
“There’s nowhere better to be than in the Mecca of boxing, the United States. This opportunity has come to me because God’s timing is perfect.”
“I am a warrior. I like to brawl. I can box in any way he wants, but I like to be in wars.”
Giovani Santillan
"I'm excited to be back here in San Diego. Every time I come to San Diego, I give everything I have. I leave it in the ring."
On the last year, including loss to Brian Norman Jr.
"It was tough. We went through some hard moments with my fight last year in San Diego and some things that happened with my family towards the end of the year. But I'm resilient, and my dad raised me to always work hard and always have faith and hope. I'm back here, and I'm excited for this weekend."
"Right now, I'm on the climb back up to another world title shot. I want another world title shot, and I'm ready for it already. I have to focus on this weekend, and I hope to get that soon."
Perla Bazaldua
"Signing with Top Rank, one of the biggest promotional companies out there, was one of my dreams. Finally getting that contract and now performing on this stage is such a motivation, especially in this camp.
Saturday, May 10th - ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
Emanuel Navarrete vs.Charly Suarez, 12 rounds, Navarrete's WBO Junior Lightweight Title
Raymond Muratalla vs. Zaur Abdullaev, 12 rounds, Vacant Interim IBF Lightweight Title
ESPN+ (5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT)
Sammy Contreras vs. Dyllon Cervantes Alvarado, 4 rounds, Junior Welterweight
Andres Cortes vs. Salvador Jimenez, 10 rounds, Junior Lightweight
Giovani Santillan vs. Angel Beltran, 10 rounds, Welterweight
Perla Bazaldua vs. Mona Ward, 4 rounds, Junior Bantamweight
Albert Gonzalez vs. Ivan Guardado Jr., 10 rounds, Featherweight
Alan Garcia vs. Cristian Medina, 8 rounds, Lightweight
Sebastian Hernandez vs. Azat Hovhannisyan, 8 rounds, Junior Featherweight
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Navarrete vs. Suarez final presser quotes
Emanuel "Vaquero" Navarrete (pictured, 39-2-1, 32 KOs) will defend his WBO junior lightweight title against Charly Suarez (18-0, 10 KOs) this Saturday at Pechanga Arena San in Diego, the latest chapter in the Mexico vs. Philippines fistic saga. In the co-feature, SoCal native Raymond Muratalla (22-0, 17 KOs) and Russia’s Zaur Abdullaev (20-1, 12 KOs) will collide for the vacant IBF interim lightweight title. Navarrete-Suarez and Muratalla-Abdullaev will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The ESPN+-streamed undercard will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and features the return of junior lightweight Andres Cortes (22-0, 12 KOs), who takes on Spain's Salvador Jimenez (14-1-1, 6 KOs) in a ten-rounder.
Additionally, San Diego's hometown hero Giovani Santillan (33-1, 18 KOs) will square off against Mexico's Angel Beltran (18-2, 11 KOs) in a ten-round welterweight clash, while newly-signed 19 year-old junior bantamweight Perla Bazaldua (1-0, 1 KO) makes her Top Rank debut in a four-rounder against Mona Ward (0-1). Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale via AXS.com.
At Thursday's press conference, this is what the fighters said:
Emanuel Navarrete
“My performance against Oscar Valdez was my way of showing that I’m now at 100 percent. There’s no doubt about that now. So, all we have to do is prepare well to achieve my goals.”
“We know what happened the last time I was in San Diego. We did not get the victory. We lost against Denys Berinchyk in our attempt to win a title at 135 pounds. But now, defending at 130 pounds, we want to let the people know I’m ready to move forward with my career.”
“I prepared for a great fight. We know that Suarez is coming for my title. So I want a great fight so everyone can see I’m ready to continue on the path of victory.”
“We have to defend my title first. We’re going to work hard and take the title home. After, we’ll see if I stay at 130 or move up again.”
Charly Suarez
“I prayed for this fight. And here it is. The opportunity has come, and I have taken it. And we won’t lose.”
“I’m bringing all my amateur experience into this fight. This is it. The world title shot is here, so I’m ready and I’m excited for the fight on Saturday.”
“This is a good opportunity for me to represent my country and to show the world that Filipinos are good at boxing and that Filipinos and Mexicans put on great fights.”
Raymond Muratalla
“I’m ready to go. It’s been a long time. I’ve been putting in work. My time is here. So I’m shining on Saturday.”
“We know he’s tough. We know he’s coming to fight. But I'm fully prepared for whatever he brings.”
“A win on Saturday would be huge for my family and team. I’ve been dreaming of this since I was a kid.”
Zaur Abdullaev
“I’m happy to return to the United States after five years. And I’m ready to finally become a world champion.”
“I started my training camp out in the mountains. And I finished camp out here in California. I’m ready to do anything to win.”
“Muratalla is a very good fighter. I’ve watched many of his fights. But I’m ready to overcome this challenge.”
Andres Cortes
“There’s level to this. I’m going to show that I’m at the top.”
“I dream about this every night. I’ve dedicated my whole life to this sport. This is what I do. So, I’m ready to get back in there.”
“When you bet on me, it’s a guaranteed bet. If you want to make some money, take me by knockout.”
Salvador Jimenez
“There’s nowhere better to be than in the Mecca of boxing, the United States. This opportunity has come to me because God’s timing is perfect.”
“I am a warrior. I like to brawl. I can box in any way he wants, but I like to be in wars.”
Giovani Santillan
"I'm excited to be back here in San Diego. Every time I come to San Diego, I give everything I have. I leave it in the ring."
On the last year, including loss to Brian Norman Jr.
"It was tough. We went through some hard moments with my fight last year in San Diego and some things that happened with my family towards the end of the year. But I'm resilient, and my dad raised me to always work hard and always have faith and hope. I'm back here, and I'm excited for this weekend."
"Right now, I'm on the climb back up to another world title shot. I want another world title shot, and I'm ready for it already. I have to focus on this weekend, and I hope to get that soon."
Perla Bazaldua
"Signing with Top Rank, one of the biggest promotional companies out there, was one of my dreams. Finally getting that contract and now performing on this stage is such a motivation, especially in this camp.
Saturday, May 10th - ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
Emanuel Navarrete vs.Charly Suarez, 12 rounds, Navarrete's WBO Junior Lightweight Title
Raymond Muratalla vs. Zaur Abdullaev, 12 rounds, Vacant Interim IBF Lightweight Title
ESPN+ (5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT)
Sammy Contreras vs. Dyllon Cervantes Alvarado, 4 rounds, Junior Welterweight
Andres Cortes vs. Salvador Jimenez, 10 rounds, Junior Lightweight
Giovani Santillan vs. Angel Beltran, 10 rounds, Welterweight
Perla Bazaldua vs. Mona Ward, 4 rounds, Junior Bantamweight
Albert Gonzalez vs. Ivan Guardado Jr., 10 rounds, Featherweight
Alan Garcia vs. Cristian Medina, 8 rounds, Lightweight
Sebastian Hernandez vs. Azat Hovhannisyan, 8 rounds, Junior Featherweight
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Granite Chin books June 7th show in MA |
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The two newest members of Granite Chin Promotions’ (GCP) roster, lightweight “Showtime” Shea Willcox (2-0, 2 KOs) of Everett, Massachusetts and middleweight Rich Allen (1-0, 1 KO) of Kingston, MA will be showcased in a pair of home-state, four-round bouts on Friday night, June 20th at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater. Once again, Granite Chin Promotions is partnering with the Bridgewater-based “Fire For Effect Foundation,” whose mission is to honor and empower veterans, first responders and their families by providing essential resources, support and community-building initiatives that foster resilience, restore hope, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Go to www.ffefinc.org for more information. “We are starting to build something special in Bridgewater,” GCP promoter Chris Traietti said. “It has been such a pleasure working with the Fire For Effect Foundation and helping them with their mission to support local veterans and first responders. Our last two shows sold out there and I have a great feeling this one is going to continue that streak. Both Shea and Rich have great fan bases, and I am thrilled to showcase Granite Chin’s two newest signings on the same card.”
Willcox, 23, was a member of two Everett High’s Super Bowl, Division One, football championship teams. He was also selected as the “Most Outstanding Boxer” at last year’s New England Golden Gloves Championships, as well as a 2018 Rocky Marciano Tournament Champion. Willcox signed with Granite Chin prior to his pro debut last September at the Bridgewater Vets Club, in which he knocked out Travis Cain in the first round. On April 19th at Brookline High School, Willcox scored a first-round technical knockout of Igor Santos.
“Last time I fought in Bridgewater,” Willcox explained, “I had a good turnout and I’m hoping for the same this fight in this nice little venue. This time I’m training even harder, more like a professional, and I’m more confident. I want to stay as busy as possible.”
In less than a full year, Willcox is arguably the leading draw in New England boxing, packing the house with his enthusiastic fans. “I have a huge family on both sides but it’s not just them. I have so many friends at my fights,” Willcox added. “It was like that in Lowell when I fought in the New England Golden Gloves. Tons of people! Some fighters may feel added pressure, but I love it and take it all in. I do block it out – all the people cheering -- as I walk to the ring. It’s a great feeling.”
The 34 year-old Allen also made his long-awaited pro debut at the same venue on February 15th, in which he knocked out Tymar Miles in the opening round. Allen is a school resources police officer at Silver Lake High School. He started boxing at 16 but put down his gloves for a few years to attend the University of Massachusetts at Boston. He then resumed boxing in the amateurs. College and work never kept Allen out of the gym even if he wasn’t competing. “Any experience helps,” Allen spoke about his second pro as opposed to his debut. “I did have amateur experience going into my pro debut. For this fight I modified a few things to get ready if needed to go the full four rounds. Every time I’m in the ring it reminds me why I love boxing so much. I’m training hard and it’s such a good feeling to hear the crowd supporting me. It’s cool!
“I’m taking things fight to fight. I’m having fun. I’m still training as hard as I can, and I’ll keep boxing as long as my body permits, and it makes sense to my family. I won’t continue fighting if I’m not 100-percent because this is such a dangerous sport. I recently signed with Granite Chin and that really helps me. Chris Traietti is a local promoter who everybody knows is always square with his fighters.”
Card subject to change. Tickets are available for purchase at www.Granite-Chin-Promotions.ticketleap.com.
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Granite Chin books June 7th show in MA
The two newest members of Granite Chin Promotions’ (GCP) roster, lightweight “Showtime” Shea Willcox (2-0, 2 KOs) of Everett, Massachusetts and middleweight Rich Allen (1-0, 1 KO) of Kingston, MA will be showcased in a pair of home-state, four-round bouts on Friday night, June 20th at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater. Once again, Granite Chin Promotions is partnering with the Bridgewater-based “Fire For Effect Foundation,” whose mission is to honor and empower veterans, first responders and their families by providing essential resources, support and community-building initiatives that foster resilience, restore hope, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Go to www.ffefinc.org for more information. “We are starting to build something special in Bridgewater,” GCP promoter Chris Traietti said. “It has been such a pleasure working with the Fire For Effect Foundation and helping them with their mission to support local veterans and first responders. Our last two shows sold out there and I have a great feeling this one is going to continue that streak. Both Shea and Rich have great fan bases, and I am thrilled to showcase Granite Chin’s two newest signings on the same card.”
Willcox, 23, was a member of two Everett High’s Super Bowl, Division One, football championship teams. He was also selected as the “Most Outstanding Boxer” at last year’s New England Golden Gloves Championships, as well as a 2018 Rocky Marciano Tournament Champion. Willcox signed with Granite Chin prior to his pro debut last September at the Bridgewater Vets Club, in which he knocked out Travis Cain in the first round. On April 19th at Brookline High School, Willcox scored a first-round technical knockout of Igor Santos.
“Last time I fought in Bridgewater,” Willcox explained, “I had a good turnout and I’m hoping for the same this fight in this nice little venue. This time I’m training even harder, more like a professional, and I’m more confident. I want to stay as busy as possible.”
In less than a full year, Willcox is arguably the leading draw in New England boxing, packing the house with his enthusiastic fans. “I have a huge family on both sides but it’s not just them. I have so many friends at my fights,” Willcox added. “It was like that in Lowell when I fought in the New England Golden Gloves. Tons of people! Some fighters may feel added pressure, but I love it and take it all in. I do block it out – all the people cheering -- as I walk to the ring. It’s a great feeling.”
The 34 year-old Allen also made his long-awaited pro debut at the same venue on February 15th, in which he knocked out Tymar Miles in the opening round. Allen is a school resources police officer at Silver Lake High School. He started boxing at 16 but put down his gloves for a few years to attend the University of Massachusetts at Boston. He then resumed boxing in the amateurs. College and work never kept Allen out of the gym even if he wasn’t competing. “Any experience helps,” Allen spoke about his second pro as opposed to his debut. “I did have amateur experience going into my pro debut. For this fight I modified a few things to get ready if needed to go the full four rounds. Every time I’m in the ring it reminds me why I love boxing so much. I’m training hard and it’s such a good feeling to hear the crowd supporting me. It’s cool!
“I’m taking things fight to fight. I’m having fun. I’m still training as hard as I can, and I’ll keep boxing as long as my body permits, and it makes sense to my family. I won’t continue fighting if I’m not 100-percent because this is such a dangerous sport. I recently signed with Granite Chin and that really helps me. Chris Traietti is a local promoter who everybody knows is always square with his fighters.”
Card subject to change. Tickets are available for purchase at www.Granite-Chin-Promotions.ticketleap.com.
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Jared Warren looking for chance to become repeat BKFC champ |
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In last week's bare knuckles action in Clearwater, Florida, Jared Warren needed just 92 seconds to stop Joseph Creer, at the sold-out OCC Road House & Museum. “I didn’t expect to finish him that early in the fight, but everything went really smoothly and that gave me the statement that I was looking for,” Warren says. “I don’t think they can deny me a title shot after that.” The title that Warren is referring to is the BKFC light heavyweight (185-pound) championship. Warren held the belt before dropping it to Mike Richman. On Saturday, Richman is set to defend the title for the first time on Saturday against Josh Dyer in the BKFC 74 main event, live on DAZN at the Maverik Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Warren sees Richman successfully defending the strap, calling him the better fighter. But Warren would be happy to fight whoever wins Saturday’s headliner. All the Tampa, Florida product wants is his belt back. “Regardless of my results, I’ve never stopped looking for ways to improve, so I’m always expecting myself to be more composed and more polished when I enter the ring,” he says. “I’m my own toughest critic. You’ll never get to the point where you know it all about fighting, so I’m just working hard to elevate my game and look like a better fighter every time I’m out there.”
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Jared Warren looking for chance to become repeat BKFC champ
In last week's bare knuckles action in Clearwater, Florida, Jared Warren needed just 92 seconds to stop Joseph Creer, at the sold-out OCC Road House & Museum. “I didn’t expect to finish him that early in the fight, but everything went really smoothly and that gave me the statement that I was looking for,” Warren says. “I don’t think they can deny me a title shot after that.” The title that Warren is referring to is the BKFC light heavyweight (185-pound) championship. Warren held the belt before dropping it to Mike Richman. On Saturday, Richman is set to defend the title for the first time on Saturday against Josh Dyer in the BKFC 74 main event, live on DAZN at the Maverik Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Warren sees Richman successfully defending the strap, calling him the better fighter. But Warren would be happy to fight whoever wins Saturday’s headliner. All the Tampa, Florida product wants is his belt back. “Regardless of my results, I’ve never stopped looking for ways to improve, so I’m always expecting myself to be more composed and more polished when I enter the ring,” he says. “I’m my own toughest critic. You’ll never get to the point where you know it all about fighting, so I’m just working hard to elevate my game and look like a better fighter every time I’m out there.”
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Inoue likely to face Akhmadaliev next |
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After stopping Ramon Cardenas in a Las Vegas war last weekend, world super bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue (pictured) may have chosen his next opponent. At the press conference after his fight against Cardenas, Inoue mentioned Uzbekistan’s Murodjon "MJ" Akhmadaliev as a possible opponent. The fight, if made, would take place in September of this year in Japan. This would be a record 27th straight world title fight for Inoue. Akhmadaliev is a former unified super bantamweight champion and current WBA interim title holder. His record is 16-3 including the World Series of Boxing and he may have a fight later this month before facing Inoue.
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Inoue likely to face Akhmadaliev next
After stopping Ramon Cardenas in a Las Vegas war last weekend, world super bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue (pictured) may have chosen his next opponent. At the press conference after his fight against Cardenas, Inoue mentioned Uzbekistan’s Murodjon "MJ" Akhmadaliev as a possible opponent. The fight, if made, would take place in September of this year in Japan. This would be a record 27th straight world title fight for Inoue. Akhmadaliev is a former unified super bantamweight champion and current WBA interim title holder. His record is 16-3 including the World Series of Boxing and he may have a fight later this month before facing Inoue.
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Alycia Baumgardner training with Derrick James for July fight |
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Alycia Baumgardner, the world junior lightweight champion, will face Jennifer Miranda in the chief supporting bout prior to Kate Taylor boxing Amanda Serrano for the third time. The MVP Promotions show will take place on July 11th at Madison Square Garden in New York City and will be streamed on Netflix. Baumgarnder has added Derrick James, one of the best trainers of the moment, to her team and is undergoing extensive training, as she aims to prove she is the best 130-pounder in the world. Baumgarnder began her championship in 2021 when she faced Terri Harper for the WBC title in Sheffield, United Kingdom. Alycia knocked her opponent out in the fourth round and became champion. Her title unification came one fight later, in that bout she defeated then-WBO and IBF champion Mikaela Mayer. In 2023, she tested positive for a banned performance enhancing substance, mesterolone. The WBC later decided she had not intentionally ingested it.
In October of last year, Miranda defeated Panamanian Teresa Almengor by unanimous decision, winning the interim WBA championship. The Spaniard has an undefeated record of 12 victories, one of them by knockout.
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Alycia Baumgardner training with Derrick James for July fight
Alycia Baumgardner, the world junior lightweight champion, will face Jennifer Miranda in the chief supporting bout prior to Kate Taylor boxing Amanda Serrano for the third time. The MVP Promotions show will take place on July 11th at Madison Square Garden in New York City and will be streamed on Netflix. Baumgarnder has added Derrick James, one of the best trainers of the moment, to her team and is undergoing extensive training, as she aims to prove she is the best 130-pounder in the world. Baumgarnder began her championship in 2021 when she faced Terri Harper for the WBC title in Sheffield, United Kingdom. Alycia knocked her opponent out in the fourth round and became champion. Her title unification came one fight later, in that bout she defeated then-WBO and IBF champion Mikaela Mayer. In 2023, she tested positive for a banned performance enhancing substance, mesterolone. The WBC later decided she had not intentionally ingested it.
In October of last year, Miranda defeated Panamanian Teresa Almengor by unanimous decision, winning the interim WBA championship. The Spaniard has an undefeated record of 12 victories, one of them by knockout.
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Barboza reflects on loss to Lopez |
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Arnold Barboza, Jr. tweeted his thoughts about last weekend's loss to world / WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez in New York City: "I’m going to take some time now to heal the body and the mind, to process [the loss]. I will come back stronger. I will come back wiser. And when I step through those ropes again, I’ll be ready to remind the world who I am... To my fans, this time I came up short. And I’m not here to make excuses. Hats off to Teo. That’s the truth. It’s not just the loss, but knowing how much you all believed in me. I felt that love, and I carried it with me into the ring. Always grateful never satisfied."
Lopez looked very sharp in the fight, winning a unanimous twelve-round decision over the previously unbeaten Barboza in New York City's Times Square. Lopez showed great movement and threw punches from many different angles. Barboza simply was not athletic enough to deal with the boxing skills, although Lopez did leave with a bruise under his left eye. Lopez retained his championship by official scores were 118-110 and 116-112 (twice) outlanded Barboza 126 punches to 70, according to Punchstat.
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Barboza reflects on loss to Lopez
Arnold Barboza, Jr. tweeted his thoughts about last weekend's loss to world / WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez in New York City: "I’m going to take some time now to heal the body and the mind, to process [the loss]. I will come back stronger. I will come back wiser. And when I step through those ropes again, I’ll be ready to remind the world who I am... To my fans, this time I came up short. And I’m not here to make excuses. Hats off to Teo. That’s the truth. It’s not just the loss, but knowing how much you all believed in me. I felt that love, and I carried it with me into the ring. Always grateful never satisfied."
Lopez looked very sharp in the fight, winning a unanimous twelve-round decision over the previously unbeaten Barboza in New York City's Times Square. Lopez showed great movement and threw punches from many different angles. Barboza simply was not athletic enough to deal with the boxing skills, although Lopez did leave with a bruise under his left eye. Lopez retained his championship by official scores were 118-110 and 116-112 (twice) outlanded Barboza 126 punches to 70, according to Punchstat.
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Jim Lampley book signing set for Wild Card Boxing Club |
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Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley has gone from ringside commentator to road warrior. Last Friday, May 2nd, Lampley, to great acclaim, called blow by blow on the Ring Magazine championship boxing card, which was streamed live, from New York City's Times Square, on DAZN pay-per-view. The event which featured Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, and Teofimo Lopez in separate bouts, was the first boxing card Lampley called since Dec. 8, 2018, the last time live boxing was televised on HBO. Now, Lampley is back on the road continuing his national book tour promoting his bestselling memoir, "It Happened! A Uniquely Lucky Life in Sports Television." Published by Matt Holt Books, it is an entertaining look at Lampley's life, including his 50-year broadcasting career which began during the golden era of sports television at ABC Sports under the legendary Roone Arledge.
On Saturday, at 2 p.m. PT, Lampley will be in Los Angeles where Hall of Fame trainer world-famous Freddie Roach will host a book signing at his Hollywood-based Wild Card Boxing Club (1123 Vine St. -- just north of Santa Monica Blvd. -- Hollywood, CA 90038). Lampley's book will be available for purchase. Lampley and Roach will only be signing copies of Lampley's memoir. Churro Champ (owned and operated by pro boxer Hugo Centeno) and Tacos 1986 will be serving complimentary fare. The Wild Card Boxing Store will also be open with last-minute Mother's Day and early Father's Day gift options.
It Happened! is available in Hardcover, eBook, and Audiobook (narrated by Lampley) at all major booksellers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and across the pond at Amazon.co.uk.
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Jim Lampley book signing set for Wild Card Boxing Club
Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley has gone from ringside commentator to road warrior. Last Friday, May 2nd, Lampley, to great acclaim, called blow by blow on the Ring Magazine championship boxing card, which was streamed live, from New York City's Times Square, on DAZN pay-per-view. The event which featured Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, and Teofimo Lopez in separate bouts, was the first boxing card Lampley called since Dec. 8, 2018, the last time live boxing was televised on HBO. Now, Lampley is back on the road continuing his national book tour promoting his bestselling memoir, "It Happened! A Uniquely Lucky Life in Sports Television." Published by Matt Holt Books, it is an entertaining look at Lampley's life, including his 50-year broadcasting career which began during the golden era of sports television at ABC Sports under the legendary Roone Arledge.
On Saturday, at 2 p.m. PT, Lampley will be in Los Angeles where Hall of Fame trainer world-famous Freddie Roach will host a book signing at his Hollywood-based Wild Card Boxing Club (1123 Vine St. -- just north of Santa Monica Blvd. -- Hollywood, CA 90038). Lampley's book will be available for purchase. Lampley and Roach will only be signing copies of Lampley's memoir. Churro Champ (owned and operated by pro boxer Hugo Centeno) and Tacos 1986 will be serving complimentary fare. The Wild Card Boxing Store will also be open with last-minute Mother's Day and early Father's Day gift options.
It Happened! is available in Hardcover, eBook, and Audiobook (narrated by Lampley) at all major booksellers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and across the pond at Amazon.co.uk.
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BKFC in Salt Lake City this weekend |
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Salt Lake City is becoming a hotbed for bare knuckle fighting in the United States. BKFC made its action-packed Salt Lake City debut last September with BKFC 65 at the sold-out Maverik Center. It now returns to Utah’s capital city on Saturday with BKFC 74, live worldwide on DAZN from the Maverik Center. BKFC’s rapid rise in popularity in SLC isn’t surprising to one of the city’s most exciting fighters, Dominico Salas. “There’s a big fight community here and we’ve really rallied behind BKFC,” Salas says. “There have always been a lot of MMA fans and boxing fans here, and they’ve all fallen in love with BKFC. There’s nothing that comes close to BKFC in terms of excitement.”
Salas made his squared circle debut at BKFC 65, defeating Kaine Tomlinson Jr., in the first round of their welterweight matchup. He returns to action on Saturday at BKFC 74 against Jeremiah Truhlar. Salas has competed in all kinds of martial arts over the years, but he’s been told that bare knuckle fighting is his calling. “The sport fits my style really well — I’ve been told that a lot,” he says. “I get in your face with non-stop pressure. I accept and embrace that I’m in a fight, and I’ll do anything to break my opponent.”
Salas’ motivation is to move up the rankings in BKFC’s 165-pound weight class (welterweight in BKFC), of course, but he seems to be even more interested in giving his hometown fans — and those watching around the world on DAZN — something to talk about. “Putting on a show for the fans is the most important thing,” he says. “I’m a fighter, but I’m also an entertainer. Fans are paying their hard-earned money to watch these fights, so I’ll never be content with a boring fight that doesn’t bring the fans to their feet.”
Salas is proud to fight at home, but he’d also like to compete internationally with BKFC. He sees himself having a bright future with the organization, but he isn’t looking past Saturday. “I’m really excited to see how far I can go with BKFC, but I’m only focused on one fight right now. I’m down for whatever the company has in mind for me in the future, but for right now I’m only focused on the task at hand.”
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BKFC in Salt Lake City this weekend
Salt Lake City is becoming a hotbed for bare knuckle fighting in the United States. BKFC made its action-packed Salt Lake City debut last September with BKFC 65 at the sold-out Maverik Center. It now returns to Utah’s capital city on Saturday with BKFC 74, live worldwide on DAZN from the Maverik Center. BKFC’s rapid rise in popularity in SLC isn’t surprising to one of the city’s most exciting fighters, Dominico Salas. “There’s a big fight community here and we’ve really rallied behind BKFC,” Salas says. “There have always been a lot of MMA fans and boxing fans here, and they’ve all fallen in love with BKFC. There’s nothing that comes close to BKFC in terms of excitement.”
Salas made his squared circle debut at BKFC 65, defeating Kaine Tomlinson Jr., in the first round of their welterweight matchup. He returns to action on Saturday at BKFC 74 against Jeremiah Truhlar. Salas has competed in all kinds of martial arts over the years, but he’s been told that bare knuckle fighting is his calling. “The sport fits my style really well — I’ve been told that a lot,” he says. “I get in your face with non-stop pressure. I accept and embrace that I’m in a fight, and I’ll do anything to break my opponent.”
Salas’ motivation is to move up the rankings in BKFC’s 165-pound weight class (welterweight in BKFC), of course, but he seems to be even more interested in giving his hometown fans — and those watching around the world on DAZN — something to talk about. “Putting on a show for the fans is the most important thing,” he says. “I’m a fighter, but I’m also an entertainer. Fans are paying their hard-earned money to watch these fights, so I’ll never be content with a boring fight that doesn’t bring the fans to their feet.”
Salas is proud to fight at home, but he’d also like to compete internationally with BKFC. He sees himself having a bright future with the organization, but he isn’t looking past Saturday. “I’m really excited to see how far I can go with BKFC, but I’m only focused on one fight right now. I’m down for whatever the company has in mind for me in the future, but for right now I’m only focused on the task at hand.”
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Mayorga vs. Campas exhibition set for Nicaragua |
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Former champion Rosendo Alvarez, now a promoter in Nicaragua through his company Bufalo Boxing Promotions, announced an exhibition show featuring two other fomer champions, Luis “Yori Boy” Campas vs. Ricardo “Matador” Mayorga. It will be on May 17th at the Alexis Argüello Sports Center in Managua. The event will be broadcast around the world by Global Stream Media. All bouts that evenings will be for six rounds with 16-ounce gloves in use. Alvarez used the WBC weekly press conference to challenge former champion lvarez took the opportunity to challenge Jorge “Travieso” Arce to an exhibition fight on the show.
Other bouts listed as part of the event’s line-up:
José “Quiebra Jícara” Alfaro vs former champioon José Luis “Temible” Castillo.
Alvaro Castillo vs Juan Caldera.
Luis “Oso” Lacayo vs “Rompehuesos”.
“Asher” vs “Plan D”.
“Barman” vs “Wally”.
The Bufalo Boxing Promotions team left the invitation open to any other boxer who wants to participate.
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Mayorga vs. Campas exhibition set for Nicaragua
Former champion Rosendo Alvarez, now a promoter in Nicaragua through his company Bufalo Boxing Promotions, announced an exhibition show featuring two other fomer champions, Luis “Yori Boy” Campas vs. Ricardo “Matador” Mayorga. It will be on May 17th at the Alexis Argüello Sports Center in Managua. The event will be broadcast around the world by Global Stream Media. All bouts that evenings will be for six rounds with 16-ounce gloves in use. Alvarez used the WBC weekly press conference to challenge former champion lvarez took the opportunity to challenge Jorge “Travieso” Arce to an exhibition fight on the show.
Other bouts listed as part of the event’s line-up:
José “Quiebra Jícara” Alfaro vs former champioon José Luis “Temible” Castillo.
Alvaro Castillo vs Juan Caldera.
Luis “Oso” Lacayo vs “Rompehuesos”.
“Asher” vs “Plan D”.
“Barman” vs “Wally”.
The Bufalo Boxing Promotions team left the invitation open to any other boxer who wants to participate.
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Yafai to face ex-champ Rodriguez in June |
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Galal Yafai will defend his interim WBC flyweight title against former unified minimum weight champion Francisco "Chihuas" Rodríguez of Mexico on June 21st at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, United Kingdom. Yafai, a gold medalist at the 2021 Olympics, has been out of action since stopping Sunny Edwards in six rounds last November. The victory was a breakthrough performance for Yafai (16-3 including the World Series of Boxing), who will be fighting in his hometown. Rodriguez Jr., (38-6-1, 26 knockouts) is more than a decade removed from his championship reign, but he is trained by Eddy Reynoso. The winner will face WBC flyweight champion Kenshiro Teraji, one of the best pound-for-pound fighters of the moment.
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Yafai to face ex-champ Rodriguez in June
Galal Yafai will defend his interim WBC flyweight title against former unified minimum weight champion Francisco "Chihuas" Rodríguez of Mexico on June 21st at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, United Kingdom. Yafai, a gold medalist at the 2021 Olympics, has been out of action since stopping Sunny Edwards in six rounds last November. The victory was a breakthrough performance for Yafai (16-3 including the World Series of Boxing), who will be fighting in his hometown. Rodriguez Jr., (38-6-1, 26 knockouts) is more than a decade removed from his championship reign, but he is trained by Eddy Reynoso. The winner will face WBC flyweight champion Kenshiro Teraji, one of the best pound-for-pound fighters of the moment.
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Cissokho vs. Kavaliauskas on for Equatorial Guinea |
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Last December, welterweight contenders Souleymane Cissokho and Egidijus Kavaliauskas were scheduled to face each other, but an injury sidelined Cissohko, who announced before the fight that he had broken his hand in sparring. The fight is back on for this Saturday, May 10th, at the Sipopo Conference Center in Equatorial Guinea. Cissokho is a Senegalese-born, French-based fighter with an undefeated record of 19 wins and 9 KOs including the World Series of Boxing. He hasn't fought since 2023. Kavaliauskas, from Lithuania, has a record of 24-2-1 and 19 knockouts. He also hasn't fought since 2023, but he is best known for giving current pound-for-pound star Terence Crawford a very tough fight in 2019.
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Cissokho vs. Kavaliauskas on for Equatorial Guinea
Last December, welterweight contenders Souleymane Cissokho and Egidijus Kavaliauskas were scheduled to face each other, but an injury sidelined Cissohko, who announced before the fight that he had broken his hand in sparring. The fight is back on for this Saturday, May 10th, at the Sipopo Conference Center in Equatorial Guinea. Cissokho is a Senegalese-born, French-based fighter with an undefeated record of 19 wins and 9 KOs including the World Series of Boxing. He hasn't fought since 2023. Kavaliauskas, from Lithuania, has a record of 24-2-1 and 19 knockouts. He also hasn't fought since 2023, but he is best known for giving current pound-for-pound star Terence Crawford a very tough fight in 2019.
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Melikuziev and Fulghum to face off in WBA eliminator |
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Super middleweights Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev (19-3 including the World Series of Boxing) and Darius “DFG” Fulghum (14-0, 12 KOs) collide in a twelve-round WBA title eliminator. The showdown will headline a special edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN, live from The Theater at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas on Friday, May 30th. Fans around the globe can catch the event exclusively on DAZN. “I’m happy to be back, in a meaningful fight,” said Melikuziev. “My goal remains the same – the world championship belt and this fight is for the right to challenge the champion, and that’s what I’ve been waiting for.”
“My mentality for this fight is to make a statement that makes me an undeniable force in the super middleweight division,” said Darius Fulghum. “I’m extremely thankful to Golden Boy and the WBA for this opportunity. This is an opportunity that I don’t take for granted. I’m checking all boxes so on May 30th the fans will see the best version of DFG.”
“Golden Boy isn’t afraid to match its top contenders in high-stakes fights, and this WBA eliminator between Melikuziev and Fulghum is no exception,” said CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “I expect both fighters to come in focused and aggressive—because the reward is clear: a shot at a highly coveted world title.”
In the co-feature, Eric Priest (15-0, 8 KOs) will participate in a ten-round middleweight event against a soon to be announced opponent. Priest was last seen headlining against tough competitor Tyler Howard and securing a solid unanimous decision victory.
Also featured on the Golden Boy Fight Night card, 2024 Olympian of Houston, Texas, Joshua “Good” Edwards (1-0, 1 KO) will make a quick return to the ring in a six-round fight after a masterful heavyweight professional debut on April 19th. Also on the card, heavyweight Federico Pacheco Jr. (8-0, 6 KOs) will participate in a six-round fight against Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Calvin Barnett (5-2, 2 KOs). Opening the DAZN card, Indio’s Cayden Griffiths (4-0, 4 KOs) will be looking to continue his knockout streak in a six-round welterweight fight. More details on the undercard will be announced in the coming weeks.
Melikuziev is a body puncher with a decorated amateur career that saw him win a silver medal at the 2015 AIBA World Boxing Championship and then to earn a silver medal in the middleweight division at the 2016 Summer Olympics, proving his high-level experience as an amateur boxer. The Uzbekistani amateur standout made his traditional pro debut on June 13, 2019, where he knocked out Argentinian veteran Martin Fidel Rios during the first round at the Avalon in Hollywood, California as part of a Golden Boy card. Most recently, Melikuziev secured a split decision victory over the hard-hitting David Stevens in November 2024. With his impressive background,
Fulghum is an undefeated super middleweight from Houston. A decorated amateur, he was ranked #1 in the USA as a heavyweight and captured the 2018 National Golden Gloves title while also making a strong showing at the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. Despite fighting as a pro at super middleweight, his amateur achievements have laid a solid foundation for his professional success. Outside of boxing, Fulghum is a licensed nurse in Texas, holding a degree from Prairie View A&M University. He trains under the guidance of Julian Chua at Brickhouse Boxing Club in Los Angeles
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Melikuziev and Fulghum to face off in WBA eliminator
Super middleweights Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev (19-3 including the World Series of Boxing) and Darius “DFG” Fulghum (14-0, 12 KOs) collide in a twelve-round WBA title eliminator. The showdown will headline a special edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN, live from The Theater at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas on Friday, May 30th. Fans around the globe can catch the event exclusively on DAZN. “I’m happy to be back, in a meaningful fight,” said Melikuziev. “My goal remains the same – the world championship belt and this fight is for the right to challenge the champion, and that’s what I’ve been waiting for.”
“My mentality for this fight is to make a statement that makes me an undeniable force in the super middleweight division,” said Darius Fulghum. “I’m extremely thankful to Golden Boy and the WBA for this opportunity. This is an opportunity that I don’t take for granted. I’m checking all boxes so on May 30th the fans will see the best version of DFG.”
“Golden Boy isn’t afraid to match its top contenders in high-stakes fights, and this WBA eliminator between Melikuziev and Fulghum is no exception,” said CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “I expect both fighters to come in focused and aggressive—because the reward is clear: a shot at a highly coveted world title.”
In the co-feature, Eric Priest (15-0, 8 KOs) will participate in a ten-round middleweight event against a soon to be announced opponent. Priest was last seen headlining against tough competitor Tyler Howard and securing a solid unanimous decision victory.
Also featured on the Golden Boy Fight Night card, 2024 Olympian of Houston, Texas, Joshua “Good” Edwards (1-0, 1 KO) will make a quick return to the ring in a six-round fight after a masterful heavyweight professional debut on April 19th. Also on the card, heavyweight Federico Pacheco Jr. (8-0, 6 KOs) will participate in a six-round fight against Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Calvin Barnett (5-2, 2 KOs). Opening the DAZN card, Indio’s Cayden Griffiths (4-0, 4 KOs) will be looking to continue his knockout streak in a six-round welterweight fight. More details on the undercard will be announced in the coming weeks.
Melikuziev is a body puncher with a decorated amateur career that saw him win a silver medal at the 2015 AIBA World Boxing Championship and then to earn a silver medal in the middleweight division at the 2016 Summer Olympics, proving his high-level experience as an amateur boxer. The Uzbekistani amateur standout made his traditional pro debut on June 13, 2019, where he knocked out Argentinian veteran Martin Fidel Rios during the first round at the Avalon in Hollywood, California as part of a Golden Boy card. Most recently, Melikuziev secured a split decision victory over the hard-hitting David Stevens in November 2024. With his impressive background,
Fulghum is an undefeated super middleweight from Houston. A decorated amateur, he was ranked #1 in the USA as a heavyweight and captured the 2018 National Golden Gloves title while also making a strong showing at the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. Despite fighting as a pro at super middleweight, his amateur achievements have laid a solid foundation for his professional success. Outside of boxing, Fulghum is a licensed nurse in Texas, holding a degree from Prairie View A&M University. He trains under the guidance of Julian Chua at Brickhouse Boxing Club in Los Angeles
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Danier Pero training camp report |
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Dainier ("The Fear") Pero, a 25 year-old Cuban Olympian with a pro record of 10-0 and 8 KOs, has completed a his Las Vegas training camp the guidance respected trainer Bob Santos, ahead of the biggest fight of his professional career. Pero will headline a Most Valuable Prospects show in a scheduled ten-round heavyweight bout against Cesar Navarro (13-2 with 11 KOs) on Friday, May 9th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The event will be televised live on DAZN, marking Pero’s first main event appearance on a nationally televised stage. Pero is promoted by Boxlab Promotions.
Pero and Santos have been focused on refining the boxers' technical ability, ring IQ and endurance as he prepares for the challenge ahead. “We’ve been working hard, but doing it smart,” said Pero. “Coach Bob Santos knows how to push when needed, and I feel I’m getting better with each camp. We’ve been working on controlling the pace, staying sharp defensively, and using my size and speed in smarter ways. I feel more prepared than ever.”
Pero faces a test in Navarro, a known power puncher with knockout intent. But the Cuban Olympian is embracing the challenge. “I know Navarro comes to fight and carries real power,” added Pero. “This type of fight is what we’ve been preparing for—a tough opponent that brings out the best in me. I’m here to show I’m ready for the top of the division, and Navarro is standing in my way. My goal is to take him out and do it impressively.”
As he steps into his first main event on an MVP show, Pero is eager to make a lasting impression. “To headline a card like this on DAZN and MVP is the next step in my career.” Pero concluded. “Fighting on this kind of stage, means everything to me. I want fans around the world to remember my name after May 9th.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, has been instrumental in guiding Pero’s career and believes the young heavyweight’s time is coming. “Dainier Pero is one of the most promising heavyweight prospects in the world,” said Piedra. “His amateur pedigree, combined with the discipline he’s shown in the pros, is rare. This main event is just the beginning—we believe he’s on a fast track to title contention.”
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Danier Pero training camp report
Dainier ("The Fear") Pero, a 25 year-old Cuban Olympian with a pro record of 10-0 and 8 KOs, has completed a his Las Vegas training camp the guidance respected trainer Bob Santos, ahead of the biggest fight of his professional career. Pero will headline a Most Valuable Prospects show in a scheduled ten-round heavyweight bout against Cesar Navarro (13-2 with 11 KOs) on Friday, May 9th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The event will be televised live on DAZN, marking Pero’s first main event appearance on a nationally televised stage. Pero is promoted by Boxlab Promotions.
Pero and Santos have been focused on refining the boxers' technical ability, ring IQ and endurance as he prepares for the challenge ahead. “We’ve been working hard, but doing it smart,” said Pero. “Coach Bob Santos knows how to push when needed, and I feel I’m getting better with each camp. We’ve been working on controlling the pace, staying sharp defensively, and using my size and speed in smarter ways. I feel more prepared than ever.”
Pero faces a test in Navarro, a known power puncher with knockout intent. But the Cuban Olympian is embracing the challenge. “I know Navarro comes to fight and carries real power,” added Pero. “This type of fight is what we’ve been preparing for—a tough opponent that brings out the best in me. I’m here to show I’m ready for the top of the division, and Navarro is standing in my way. My goal is to take him out and do it impressively.”
As he steps into his first main event on an MVP show, Pero is eager to make a lasting impression. “To headline a card like this on DAZN and MVP is the next step in my career.” Pero concluded. “Fighting on this kind of stage, means everything to me. I want fans around the world to remember my name after May 9th.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, has been instrumental in guiding Pero’s career and believes the young heavyweight’s time is coming. “Dainier Pero is one of the most promising heavyweight prospects in the world,” said Piedra. “His amateur pedigree, combined with the discipline he’s shown in the pros, is rare. This main event is just the beginning—we believe he’s on a fast track to title contention.”
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A few words with junior lightweight Andres “Savage” Cortes |
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Top Rank’s junior lightweight Andres “Savage” Cortes (20-0, 12 KOs) has wrapped up training camp in Las Vegas ahead of his upcoming ten-round showdown against Spain’s Salvador Jimenez (14-1-1, 6 KOs) on Saturday, May 10th, at Pechanga Arena San Diego. Cortes vs. Jimenez will be streamed live in the U.S. on ESPN+. Tickets are on sale now at AXS.com. The bout marks another major step in Cortes’ march toward a world title. The Las Vegas native knows a dominant performance could push him even closer to a title shot in the highly competitive 130-pound division.Cortes, who trains under the guidance of his brother and manager Luis Cortes, believes this camp has brought out the best in him—mentally and physically. He’s looking to steal the show on May 10th with a sensational performance.
“Training camp went great,” said Cortes. “Having my brother Luis in my corner, pushing me every day, makes all the difference. We’re focused on our goals, and this camp showed that. I feel sharp, strong, and ready for whatever comes May 10th.”
The match-up with Jimenez is expected to be a high-skill chess match, as both fighters bring speed, footwork, and strong boxing IQs into the ring. “Salvador Jimenez is not an easy fight. He’s a smart, disciplined fighter with only one loss, and I’m preparing for a tough challenge,” Cortes said. “But I’m here to prove that I belong at the top. This is the kind of fight that will prove I’m ready for a world title shot. At this point in my boxing life, every fight is the most important fight of my career. A win here puts me right where I want to be—a step away from a world title shot. I’m not looking past Jimenez, but I know what’s on the line, and I’m ready to seize the moment.”
Luis Cortes echoed his brother’s confidence and praised the effort and mindset shown throughout camp. “This was one of the best camps we’ve had,” said Luis Cortes. “Andres came in hungry, focused, and is determined to make a statement. He’s ready for the next level, and May 10th is going to be another big step toward becoming world champion.”
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A few words with junior lightweight Andres “Savage” Cortes
Top Rank’s junior lightweight Andres “Savage” Cortes (20-0, 12 KOs) has wrapped up training camp in Las Vegas ahead of his upcoming ten-round showdown against Spain’s Salvador Jimenez (14-1-1, 6 KOs) on Saturday, May 10th, at Pechanga Arena San Diego. Cortes vs. Jimenez will be streamed live in the U.S. on ESPN+. Tickets are on sale now at AXS.com. The bout marks another major step in Cortes’ march toward a world title. The Las Vegas native knows a dominant performance could push him even closer to a title shot in the highly competitive 130-pound division.Cortes, who trains under the guidance of his brother and manager Luis Cortes, believes this camp has brought out the best in him—mentally and physically. He’s looking to steal the show on May 10th with a sensational performance.
“Training camp went great,” said Cortes. “Having my brother Luis in my corner, pushing me every day, makes all the difference. We’re focused on our goals, and this camp showed that. I feel sharp, strong, and ready for whatever comes May 10th.”
The match-up with Jimenez is expected to be a high-skill chess match, as both fighters bring speed, footwork, and strong boxing IQs into the ring. “Salvador Jimenez is not an easy fight. He’s a smart, disciplined fighter with only one loss, and I’m preparing for a tough challenge,” Cortes said. “But I’m here to prove that I belong at the top. This is the kind of fight that will prove I’m ready for a world title shot. At this point in my boxing life, every fight is the most important fight of my career. A win here puts me right where I want to be—a step away from a world title shot. I’m not looking past Jimenez, but I know what’s on the line, and I’m ready to seize the moment.”
Luis Cortes echoed his brother’s confidence and praised the effort and mindset shown throughout camp. “This was one of the best camps we’ve had,” said Luis Cortes. “Andres came in hungry, focused, and is determined to make a statement. He’s ready for the next level, and May 10th is going to be another big step toward becoming world champion.”
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BKFC results from last weekend |
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Jared “Captain Deadpool” Warren needed just 92 seconds to stop Joseph “The Dark Knight” Creer in their bare knuckles light heavyweight showdown in Clearwater, Florida. Warren is now 8-3, 1 NC under the BKFC banner after his TKO victory on Friday. He called for the winner of Mike “The Marine” Richman’s title defense against Josh “D-Day” Dyer, set for May 10th in the BKFC 74 main event at Maverik Center in Salt Lake City, live on DAZN. “I want my belt back,” Warren told the rocking OCC Roadhouse and Museum. “I don’t care who wins next week; I just want my belt back.” Creer, a product of Columbus, GA, is now 3-3 in his BKFC career.
Clearwater bantamweight “Royal” Ryan Reber was victorious in the co-feature, edging out the previously undefeated Matt “The Silencer” Guymon in a back-and-forth majority decision. Reber scored the lone knockdown of the fight. One judge scored the contest a 47-47 draw, while the two other judges declared Reber the winner, 49-45 and 48-46. Reber is now 7-1, with his only loss coming against current BKFC champion Alberto “El Indio” Blas. Reber called for a rematch in his post-fight interview. “This is my house. I told y'all. They're going to have to kill me to take me out. Keep that belt warm for me,” Reber told the jam-packed OCC Roadhouse and Museum. Guymon, who hails from Wichita, KS, is now 2-1 in his bare knuckle fighting career.
JoMi “Archangel” Escoboza upped his bare knuckle fighting record to 10-2 with a TKO at the expense of Jay “Action” Jackson in their light heavyweight matchup. The ringside doctor called a stop to the fight at the conclusion of the third round after the Coconut Creek, FL product Escoboza sent Jackson to the canvas twice. The Tampa fighter Jackson is now 5-4 in his BKFC career.
Clearwater bantamweight Michael “Papa G” Larrimore smashed his way to 3-1 in the squared circle with a first-round TKO over Ace “O Spades” Samples. Larrimore picked himself up off the canvas and dropped Samples four times, leading to the stoppage at 1:26 of the opening frame. Samples, who represents Madison County, GA, is now 2-2 in his BKFC career.
Montana heavyweight Brady “Big Bird” Meister picked himself up off the canvas twice and recorded three knockdowns of his own in his victory over Joseph “The Punisher” White. The action-packed bout was called to a stop at the 1:16 mark of Round 2, with Meister winning via TKO. He is now 2-1 in his BKFC career; the Broward County, FL fighter White is now 2-2 under the BKFC banner.
Atlanta featherweight Nathan “The Reaper” Rivera climbed to 4-0 with a fourth-round KO over Alex “OG” Castro. Rivera picked himself up off the canvas and dropped Castro twice. The stoppage came at the 1:00 mark of the fourth round. Castro, who represents Guam, is now 0-3 under the BKFC banner.
Crystal “The Rugged Beauty” Pittman’s and Claudia “Phoenix” Zamora’s matchup in the women’s bantamweight division was declared a no contest. The fight was called to a stop by the ringside doctor after Zamora landed a strike on Pittman when she was grounded. Time of the stoppage was 1:30 in the second round. Pittman, who hails from Tampa, entered the bout 3-3 in her BKFC career, while the Miami fighter Zamora was making her BKFC debut.
Hudson, FL’s Rodney “The Animal” Hinton turned heads in his BKFC debut, sending Ben Jacobsen to the canvas three times en route to the first-round TKO in welterweight action. The bout was stopped at the 1:11 mark of the opening frame. Jacobson, who represents Pittsboro, NC, was making his BKFC debut.
Lafayette, LA bantamweight Logan Speyrer was victorious in his BKFC debut, defeating Quentin “QG” Gaskins via unanimous decision. All three judges scored the fight 49-46. Gaskins, a product of St. Petersburg, FL, is now 1-1 under the BKFC banner.
Pensacola, FL’s Anthony “The Devil's Advocate” Yost earned his first BKFC victory with a hard-fought decision over the debuting Chachi Versace in their action-packed flyweight matchup. Two judges scored the fight 50-45 and one had it 49-46, all in favor of Yost, who climbed to 1-2 with the victory. Versace represents Hudson.
BKFC Fight Night Clearwater Results
Jared Warren def. Joseph Creer via TKO in Round 1 (1:32);
Ryan Reber def. Matt Guymon via majority decision (47-47, 49-45, 48-46);
JoMi Escoboza def. Jay Jackson via TKO in Round 3 (2:00);\
Michael Larrimore def. Ace Samples via TKO in Round 1 (1:26);
Brady Meister def. Joseph White via TKO in Round 2 (1:16);
Nathan Rivera def. Alex Castro via KO in Round 4 (1:00);
Crystal Pittman vs. Claudia Zamora declared a No Contest in Round 2 (1:30);
Rodney Hinton def. Ben Jacobsen via TKO in Round 1 (1:11);
Logan Speyrer def. Quentin Gaskins via unanimous decision (49-46x3); and
Anthony Yost def. Chachi Versace via unanimous decision (50-45x2, 49-46).
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BKFC results from last weekend
Jared “Captain Deadpool” Warren needed just 92 seconds to stop Joseph “The Dark Knight” Creer in their bare knuckles light heavyweight showdown in Clearwater, Florida. Warren is now 8-3, 1 NC under the BKFC banner after his TKO victory on Friday. He called for the winner of Mike “The Marine” Richman’s title defense against Josh “D-Day” Dyer, set for May 10th in the BKFC 74 main event at Maverik Center in Salt Lake City, live on DAZN. “I want my belt back,” Warren told the rocking OCC Roadhouse and Museum. “I don’t care who wins next week; I just want my belt back.” Creer, a product of Columbus, GA, is now 3-3 in his BKFC career.
Clearwater bantamweight “Royal” Ryan Reber was victorious in the co-feature, edging out the previously undefeated Matt “The Silencer” Guymon in a back-and-forth majority decision. Reber scored the lone knockdown of the fight. One judge scored the contest a 47-47 draw, while the two other judges declared Reber the winner, 49-45 and 48-46. Reber is now 7-1, with his only loss coming against current BKFC champion Alberto “El Indio” Blas. Reber called for a rematch in his post-fight interview. “This is my house. I told y'all. They're going to have to kill me to take me out. Keep that belt warm for me,” Reber told the jam-packed OCC Roadhouse and Museum. Guymon, who hails from Wichita, KS, is now 2-1 in his bare knuckle fighting career.
JoMi “Archangel” Escoboza upped his bare knuckle fighting record to 10-2 with a TKO at the expense of Jay “Action” Jackson in their light heavyweight matchup. The ringside doctor called a stop to the fight at the conclusion of the third round after the Coconut Creek, FL product Escoboza sent Jackson to the canvas twice. The Tampa fighter Jackson is now 5-4 in his BKFC career.
Clearwater bantamweight Michael “Papa G” Larrimore smashed his way to 3-1 in the squared circle with a first-round TKO over Ace “O Spades” Samples. Larrimore picked himself up off the canvas and dropped Samples four times, leading to the stoppage at 1:26 of the opening frame. Samples, who represents Madison County, GA, is now 2-2 in his BKFC career.
Montana heavyweight Brady “Big Bird” Meister picked himself up off the canvas twice and recorded three knockdowns of his own in his victory over Joseph “The Punisher” White. The action-packed bout was called to a stop at the 1:16 mark of Round 2, with Meister winning via TKO. He is now 2-1 in his BKFC career; the Broward County, FL fighter White is now 2-2 under the BKFC banner.
Atlanta featherweight Nathan “The Reaper” Rivera climbed to 4-0 with a fourth-round KO over Alex “OG” Castro. Rivera picked himself up off the canvas and dropped Castro twice. The stoppage came at the 1:00 mark of the fourth round. Castro, who represents Guam, is now 0-3 under the BKFC banner.
Crystal “The Rugged Beauty” Pittman’s and Claudia “Phoenix” Zamora’s matchup in the women’s bantamweight division was declared a no contest. The fight was called to a stop by the ringside doctor after Zamora landed a strike on Pittman when she was grounded. Time of the stoppage was 1:30 in the second round. Pittman, who hails from Tampa, entered the bout 3-3 in her BKFC career, while the Miami fighter Zamora was making her BKFC debut.
Hudson, FL’s Rodney “The Animal” Hinton turned heads in his BKFC debut, sending Ben Jacobsen to the canvas three times en route to the first-round TKO in welterweight action. The bout was stopped at the 1:11 mark of the opening frame. Jacobson, who represents Pittsboro, NC, was making his BKFC debut.
Lafayette, LA bantamweight Logan Speyrer was victorious in his BKFC debut, defeating Quentin “QG” Gaskins via unanimous decision. All three judges scored the fight 49-46. Gaskins, a product of St. Petersburg, FL, is now 1-1 under the BKFC banner.
Pensacola, FL’s Anthony “The Devil's Advocate” Yost earned his first BKFC victory with a hard-fought decision over the debuting Chachi Versace in their action-packed flyweight matchup. Two judges scored the fight 50-45 and one had it 49-46, all in favor of Yost, who climbed to 1-2 with the victory. Versace represents Hudson.
BKFC Fight Night Clearwater Results
Jared Warren def. Joseph Creer via TKO in Round 1 (1:32);
Ryan Reber def. Matt Guymon via majority decision (47-47, 49-45, 48-46);
JoMi Escoboza def. Jay Jackson via TKO in Round 3 (2:00);\
Michael Larrimore def. Ace Samples via TKO in Round 1 (1:26);
Brady Meister def. Joseph White via TKO in Round 2 (1:16);
Nathan Rivera def. Alex Castro via KO in Round 4 (1:00);
Crystal Pittman vs. Claudia Zamora declared a No Contest in Round 2 (1:30);
Rodney Hinton def. Ben Jacobsen via TKO in Round 1 (1:11);
Logan Speyrer def. Quentin Gaskins via unanimous decision (49-46x3); and
Anthony Yost def. Chachi Versace via unanimous decision (50-45x2, 49-46).
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Ex-champ Mickey Bey books June 7th fight |
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Danny Garcia’s Swift Promotions will return for its second event of 2025 with a line-up headlined by the return of former lightweight title holder Mickey Bey taking on Tobias Green on Saturday, June 7th at the Newtown Sports & Events Center in Newtown, Pennsylvania, outside of Philadelphia. The event will stream live beginning at 7 p.m. ET on Millions.co or through the Millions App for the price of $20. “I can’t wait for June 7th to give fight fans from Philly and all of Pennsylvania another stacked card with the stars of Swift Promotions,” said Garcia, a former two-division champion. “From top to bottom, these fighters have serious skills and they’re ready to leave it all in the ring. Make sure you come out and support, because I know everyone on this card is coming to show out.”
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Ex-champ Mickey Bey books June 7th fight
Danny Garcia’s Swift Promotions will return for its second event of 2025 with a line-up headlined by the return of former lightweight title holder Mickey Bey taking on Tobias Green on Saturday, June 7th at the Newtown Sports & Events Center in Newtown, Pennsylvania, outside of Philadelphia. The event will stream live beginning at 7 p.m. ET on Millions.co or through the Millions App for the price of $20. “I can’t wait for June 7th to give fight fans from Philly and all of Pennsylvania another stacked card with the stars of Swift Promotions,” said Garcia, a former two-division champion. “From top to bottom, these fighters have serious skills and they’re ready to leave it all in the ring. Make sure you come out and support, because I know everyone on this card is coming to show out.”
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Lewkowicz: "I won't make Alvarez vs. Benavidez for fear Alvarez would be badly injured" |
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Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz (pictured) sends his congratulations to [his clients] Ramon Cardenas, Rolly Romero and WBO featherweight champ Rafael Espinoza for their success and bravery in the ring over the weekend. Lewkowicz also says he’ll do whatever it takes to make next year’s Cinco De Mayo celebration in Las Vegas unforgettable by pitting his light heavyweight star David Benavidez against the winner of the upcoming Dmitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev world championship fight. [Complaining about] overpaid big-name fighters taking safety-first approaches in terrible fights to watch, Lewkowicz asserts that aside from Romero’s disciplined performance while upsetting Ryan Garcia Friday night, the entire weekend, normally an occasion for boxing’s marquee matchups, betrayed the spirit of Cinco de Mayo and could have heavily damaged the sport’s integrity.
But Lewkowicz says, Sunday’s electric Inoue/Cardenas fight, in which undisputed junior featherweight champion Inoue got off the canvas in round two to stop the brave Cardenas in an eight-round thriller, as well as the intense fire fight between Espinoza and challenger Edward Vazquez (won by Espinoza in seven exciting rounds) thankfully saved the sport’s reputation. “You can’t buy good fights,” said Lewkowicz, the exclusive promoter of Benavidez and co-promoter of Cardenas along with Paco Damian of Paco Presents and Garry Jonas of ProBox TV. “Those two events in New York and Saudi Arabia cost in the high tens of millions and they were nothing compared to Sunday’s Top Rank event, which cost a fraction of that amount, but delivered the kind of action we needed to save face for boxing.”
Determined to prevent a similar outcome next year, Lewkowicz says it is his mission to make the showdown for light heavyweight supremacy between “The Mexican Monster” David Benavidez and either Bivol or Beterbiev for 2026’s Cinco de Mayo in Las Vegas. “After watching Canelo Alvarez Saturday night and how he looked, I wouldn’t put him in with Benavidez for fear he’d be badly injured. David Benavidez will fight in the fall and then be ready for Cinco de Mayo to face either Bivol or Beterbiev, where the torch will finally be passed to him as the new face of boxing.”
Lewkowicz also says he’s very proud of the heart and bravery shown by the San Antonio-based Cardenas, who made the most of the opportunity he earned by looking sensational in three consecutive bouts on ProBox TV. “Ramon’s career will change trajectory now, as he showed he belongs among the top fighters at junior featherweight and bantamweight. Thank you to Garry Jonas for giving him the chance to shine on ProBox TV and Top Rank for the opportunity against Inoue.”
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Lewkowicz: "I won't make Alvarez vs. Benavidez for fear Alvarez would be badly injured"
Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz (pictured) sends his congratulations to [his clients] Ramon Cardenas, Rolly Romero and WBO featherweight champ Rafael Espinoza for their success and bravery in the ring over the weekend. Lewkowicz also says he’ll do whatever it takes to make next year’s Cinco De Mayo celebration in Las Vegas unforgettable by pitting his light heavyweight star David Benavidez against the winner of the upcoming Dmitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev world championship fight. [Complaining about] overpaid big-name fighters taking safety-first approaches in terrible fights to watch, Lewkowicz asserts that aside from Romero’s disciplined performance while upsetting Ryan Garcia Friday night, the entire weekend, normally an occasion for boxing’s marquee matchups, betrayed the spirit of Cinco de Mayo and could have heavily damaged the sport’s integrity.
But Lewkowicz says, Sunday’s electric Inoue/Cardenas fight, in which undisputed junior featherweight champion Inoue got off the canvas in round two to stop the brave Cardenas in an eight-round thriller, as well as the intense fire fight between Espinoza and challenger Edward Vazquez (won by Espinoza in seven exciting rounds) thankfully saved the sport’s reputation. “You can’t buy good fights,” said Lewkowicz, the exclusive promoter of Benavidez and co-promoter of Cardenas along with Paco Damian of Paco Presents and Garry Jonas of ProBox TV. “Those two events in New York and Saudi Arabia cost in the high tens of millions and they were nothing compared to Sunday’s Top Rank event, which cost a fraction of that amount, but delivered the kind of action we needed to save face for boxing.”
Determined to prevent a similar outcome next year, Lewkowicz says it is his mission to make the showdown for light heavyweight supremacy between “The Mexican Monster” David Benavidez and either Bivol or Beterbiev for 2026’s Cinco de Mayo in Las Vegas. “After watching Canelo Alvarez Saturday night and how he looked, I wouldn’t put him in with Benavidez for fear he’d be badly injured. David Benavidez will fight in the fall and then be ready for Cinco de Mayo to face either Bivol or Beterbiev, where the torch will finally be passed to him as the new face of boxing.”
Lewkowicz also says he’s very proud of the heart and bravery shown by the San Antonio-based Cardenas, who made the most of the opportunity he earned by looking sensational in three consecutive bouts on ProBox TV. “Ramon’s career will change trajectory now, as he showed he belongs among the top fighters at junior featherweight and bantamweight. Thank you to Garry Jonas for giving him the chance to shine on ProBox TV and Top Rank for the opportunity against Inoue.”
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Hall of Fame weekend show announced for June 6th |
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Salita Promotions will promote a boxing show on Friday, June 6th at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York, as part of International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. The event will be headlined by heavyweight Brandon Moore (17-1, 10 KOs) squaring off against Stanley Wright (14-0, 11 KOs). Moore is entering the fight after a victory over previously undefeated Skylar Lacy, while Wright is coming off an upset victory over previously undefeated heavyweight standout Jeremiah Milton. This clash pits two of the better rising American heavyweights, both eager to carve their names into the division's upper echelon. Also on the DAZN card is recently signed Salita Promotions champion Franchon Crews-Dezurn (9-2, 2 KOs), the reigning WBC and WBA super middleweight champion, who will defend her titles against Mexico’s 2024 Olympian Citlalli Ortiz (4-1, 1 KO).
Moore, a standout from Florida and the 2019 Golden Gloves Champion, was dominant in his last bout, which ended in a disqualification win. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s Wright, fresh off a big upset, is poised to seize the moment and challenge Moore’s momentum in this important heavyweight showdown.
“Every fighter is on the road to the Hall of Fame,” said Dmitriy Salita, president of Salita Promotions. “It doesn’t matter if you are preparing to make your professional debut or fighting for your third world title, every fighter’s intended destination is the immortality of the Hall. We are proud to partner with the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Turning Stone Resort Casino, DAZN and, our new partners at [Andre Ward's] All the Smoke Fight who play a critical role in telling the stories of today’s boxers at all levels.”
Presale tickets for Turning Stone Rewards Card members are available starting Tuesday, May 6 at 10 a.m. ET at turningstone.com. Guests will have the option to upgrade their ticket for access to the Boxing Hall of Fame Lounge. This add-on will provide guests with exclusive access to the Boxing Hall of Fame Lounge that includes the opportunity to meet Boxing Hall of Fame inductees during the event. There are limited tickets available for the Boxing Hall of Fame Lounge Access upgreate.
The DAZN televised card will also feature U.S. Olympic Team Captain Joseph Hicks Jr. (12-0, 8 KOs) and national amateur champion Joshua James Pagan (12-0, 4 KOs) in separate bouts. Hicks is fresh off a TKO victory over previously undefeated Keon Papillion, looking to continue his ascent. Pagan is entering his fourth fight in just over a year. To date, Pagan has faced and beaten four undefeated fighters in and around the lightweight division
The undercard will feature Puerto Rico’s first women’s Olympic boxer Ashleyann Lozada (1-0), heavyweight Pryce Taylor (7-0, 5 KOs), and Salita Promotions’ middleweight Da’Velle Smith (11-0, 8 KOs) who has been routinely compared to Hall of Famer Tommy “The Hitman” Hearns for his poise, quiet confidence and significant punching power.
Induction Weekend takes place Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 8, when the International Boxing Hall of Fame will enshrine several all-time greats including eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao, Vinny Paz, Michael Nunn, Yessica Chavez and Mary Jo Sanders among others. This event is not just about the fights; it’s a celebration of the sport’s rich history and the future stars who will carry the torch.
Along with this night of boxing, International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend’s four days of non-stop boxing action and events will feature several events at Turning Stone, including:
The Banquet of Champions: Held on Saturday, June 7 at 6:30 pm in the Turning Stone Event Center, the annual Banquet of Champions will celebrate some of boxing’s greatest legends and most memorable moments.
Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: On Sunday, June 8 at 2:30 pm, the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held at The Showroom at Turning Stone will recognize this year’s outstanding class of honorees and officially welcome them to the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
Boxing fans can also look forward to events throughout the weekend at the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, including ringside talks, a celebrity fist casting, a boxing autograph card show and more. On Sunday, June 8 the Parade of Champions will also kick off in downtown Canastota at 12:00 pm.
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Hall of Fame weekend show announced for June 6th
Salita Promotions will promote a boxing show on Friday, June 6th at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York, as part of International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. The event will be headlined by heavyweight Brandon Moore (17-1, 10 KOs) squaring off against Stanley Wright (14-0, 11 KOs). Moore is entering the fight after a victory over previously undefeated Skylar Lacy, while Wright is coming off an upset victory over previously undefeated heavyweight standout Jeremiah Milton. This clash pits two of the better rising American heavyweights, both eager to carve their names into the division's upper echelon. Also on the DAZN card is recently signed Salita Promotions champion Franchon Crews-Dezurn (9-2, 2 KOs), the reigning WBC and WBA super middleweight champion, who will defend her titles against Mexico’s 2024 Olympian Citlalli Ortiz (4-1, 1 KO).
Moore, a standout from Florida and the 2019 Golden Gloves Champion, was dominant in his last bout, which ended in a disqualification win. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s Wright, fresh off a big upset, is poised to seize the moment and challenge Moore’s momentum in this important heavyweight showdown.
“Every fighter is on the road to the Hall of Fame,” said Dmitriy Salita, president of Salita Promotions. “It doesn’t matter if you are preparing to make your professional debut or fighting for your third world title, every fighter’s intended destination is the immortality of the Hall. We are proud to partner with the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Turning Stone Resort Casino, DAZN and, our new partners at [Andre Ward's] All the Smoke Fight who play a critical role in telling the stories of today’s boxers at all levels.”
Presale tickets for Turning Stone Rewards Card members are available starting Tuesday, May 6 at 10 a.m. ET at turningstone.com. Guests will have the option to upgrade their ticket for access to the Boxing Hall of Fame Lounge. This add-on will provide guests with exclusive access to the Boxing Hall of Fame Lounge that includes the opportunity to meet Boxing Hall of Fame inductees during the event. There are limited tickets available for the Boxing Hall of Fame Lounge Access upgreate.
The DAZN televised card will also feature U.S. Olympic Team Captain Joseph Hicks Jr. (12-0, 8 KOs) and national amateur champion Joshua James Pagan (12-0, 4 KOs) in separate bouts. Hicks is fresh off a TKO victory over previously undefeated Keon Papillion, looking to continue his ascent. Pagan is entering his fourth fight in just over a year. To date, Pagan has faced and beaten four undefeated fighters in and around the lightweight division
The undercard will feature Puerto Rico’s first women’s Olympic boxer Ashleyann Lozada (1-0), heavyweight Pryce Taylor (7-0, 5 KOs), and Salita Promotions’ middleweight Da’Velle Smith (11-0, 8 KOs) who has been routinely compared to Hall of Famer Tommy “The Hitman” Hearns for his poise, quiet confidence and significant punching power.
Induction Weekend takes place Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 8, when the International Boxing Hall of Fame will enshrine several all-time greats including eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao, Vinny Paz, Michael Nunn, Yessica Chavez and Mary Jo Sanders among others. This event is not just about the fights; it’s a celebration of the sport’s rich history and the future stars who will carry the torch.
Along with this night of boxing, International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend’s four days of non-stop boxing action and events will feature several events at Turning Stone, including:
The Banquet of Champions: Held on Saturday, June 7 at 6:30 pm in the Turning Stone Event Center, the annual Banquet of Champions will celebrate some of boxing’s greatest legends and most memorable moments.
Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: On Sunday, June 8 at 2:30 pm, the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held at The Showroom at Turning Stone will recognize this year’s outstanding class of honorees and officially welcome them to the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
Boxing fans can also look forward to events throughout the weekend at the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, including ringside talks, a celebrity fist casting, a boxing autograph card show and more. On Sunday, June 8 the Parade of Champions will also kick off in downtown Canastota at 12:00 pm.
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Fulton weighs in on Inoue-Cardenas |
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WBC featherweight champion Stephen Fulton Jr. (pictured) was stopped by Naoya Inoue in a 2023 super bantamweight unification bout. Here is Fulton's social media commentary on Sunday's war in which Inoue defeated Ramon Cardenas in round eight by technical knockout: "We seen the stoppage coming but that was a little early plain and simple. For those saying hating, yea and I gave him his props time after time. But I feel that stoppage was a little early. Overall it was a great fight plain and simple."
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Fulton weighs in on Inoue-Cardenas
WBC featherweight champion Stephen Fulton Jr. (pictured) was stopped by Naoya Inoue in a 2023 super bantamweight unification bout. Here is Fulton's social media commentary on Sunday's war in which Inoue defeated Ramon Cardenas in round eight by technical knockout: "We seen the stoppage coming but that was a little early plain and simple. For those saying hating, yea and I gave him his props time after time. But I feel that stoppage was a little early. Overall it was a great fight plain and simple."
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Wardley to face Huni on June 7th |
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Fabio Wardley will now fight Justis Huni in a heavyweight showdown in Ipswich, England on Saturday June 7th. With Jarrell Miller withdrawing from the WBA interim title fight, Huni, an undefeated Australian, steps in for a huge stadium show. Huni, age 26, has already fought this year with a second-round stoppage of Shaun Potgieter on the Gold Coast. His most significant pro win was a hard-fought Riyadh Season victory over the South African Kevin Lerena in March of last year. Lerena is now the WBC bridgerweight champion. This will be Huni's opening experience of fighting on UK soil, with his only other ventures outside of Australia coming in Saudi Arabia and Cancun, Mexico.
On the undercard at Portman Road is a classic British title confrontation at junior middleweight between the Commonwealth champion Sam Gilley (18-1, 9 KOs) and Louis Greene. It will be a re-run of the 2023 encounter, which Gilley won via unanimous decision. Greene has since scored a first-round stoppage over the previously unbeaten Jack McGann on a Riyadh Season event in March of last year.
At cruiserweight, the Cuban Mike Perez (30-3-1, 21 KOs) who resides in Cork, Ireland, will fight Belfast's Steven Ward. Perez comes into the fight off the back of eight straight wins since losing by decision in a WBC title challenge against Mairis Briedis in 2017. Ward (15-3, 5 KOs), defeated fellow Belfast fighter Tommy McCarthy via a sixth-round stoppage last time out in March.
“I am very happy that we have been able to bring in probably an even tougher opponent for Fabio in Justis Huni,” said promoter Frank Warren. “This will be a great fight between two young heavyweights on the rise and with an eye on the big prize.
“Justis holds the #1 spot in the WBO rankings, so it says a lot about him that he is prepared to surrender his position to fight Fabio in a 50-50 on paper for the WBA interim title. There is also the added dimension of Justis being a Matchroom fighter and we’ve got a lead to protect.
ADDITIONAL BOUTS
Irish junior welterweight Pierce O’Leary (16-0, 9 KOs) is scheduled to fight an opponent to be named later. The card also features two British Olympians: heavyweight Delicious Orie in fight #2 as a pro, plus the professional debut of bronze medal winner Lewis Richardson, who will be fighting at junior middleweight. Orie will be in four-round action, with Richardson fighting over six.
Local Ipswich super bantamweight Jack Williams (2-0, 1 KO, 4 rounds), Enfield lightweight Lillie Winch (4-0, 6 rounds), London super featherweight Christian Fetti (5-0, 4 rounds), Ilford featherweight Umar Khan (11-0, 1 KO, 8 rounds) and Lowestoft super lightweight Keano White (4-0, 1 KO, 4 rounds) complete the card.
“A show like this deserves a British title battle and that is what we will get when Sam Gilley and Lewis Greene trade bombs, plus we’ve got a European title fight for Pierce O’Leary at super lightweight that will position him for big nights in Ireland.
“I am also particularly looking forward to seeing our Olympians show their pedigree, with Delicious having his second pro fight and we welcome Lewis Richardson to Queensberry for his debut.”
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Wardley to face Huni on June 7th
Fabio Wardley will now fight Justis Huni in a heavyweight showdown in Ipswich, England on Saturday June 7th. With Jarrell Miller withdrawing from the WBA interim title fight, Huni, an undefeated Australian, steps in for a huge stadium show. Huni, age 26, has already fought this year with a second-round stoppage of Shaun Potgieter on the Gold Coast. His most significant pro win was a hard-fought Riyadh Season victory over the South African Kevin Lerena in March of last year. Lerena is now the WBC bridgerweight champion. This will be Huni's opening experience of fighting on UK soil, with his only other ventures outside of Australia coming in Saudi Arabia and Cancun, Mexico.
On the undercard at Portman Road is a classic British title confrontation at junior middleweight between the Commonwealth champion Sam Gilley (18-1, 9 KOs) and Louis Greene. It will be a re-run of the 2023 encounter, which Gilley won via unanimous decision. Greene has since scored a first-round stoppage over the previously unbeaten Jack McGann on a Riyadh Season event in March of last year.
At cruiserweight, the Cuban Mike Perez (30-3-1, 21 KOs) who resides in Cork, Ireland, will fight Belfast's Steven Ward. Perez comes into the fight off the back of eight straight wins since losing by decision in a WBC title challenge against Mairis Briedis in 2017. Ward (15-3, 5 KOs), defeated fellow Belfast fighter Tommy McCarthy via a sixth-round stoppage last time out in March.
“I am very happy that we have been able to bring in probably an even tougher opponent for Fabio in Justis Huni,” said promoter Frank Warren. “This will be a great fight between two young heavyweights on the rise and with an eye on the big prize.
“Justis holds the #1 spot in the WBO rankings, so it says a lot about him that he is prepared to surrender his position to fight Fabio in a 50-50 on paper for the WBA interim title. There is also the added dimension of Justis being a Matchroom fighter and we’ve got a lead to protect.
ADDITIONAL BOUTS
Irish junior welterweight Pierce O’Leary (16-0, 9 KOs) is scheduled to fight an opponent to be named later. The card also features two British Olympians: heavyweight Delicious Orie in fight #2 as a pro, plus the professional debut of bronze medal winner Lewis Richardson, who will be fighting at junior middleweight. Orie will be in four-round action, with Richardson fighting over six.
Local Ipswich super bantamweight Jack Williams (2-0, 1 KO, 4 rounds), Enfield lightweight Lillie Winch (4-0, 6 rounds), London super featherweight Christian Fetti (5-0, 4 rounds), Ilford featherweight Umar Khan (11-0, 1 KO, 8 rounds) and Lowestoft super lightweight Keano White (4-0, 1 KO, 4 rounds) complete the card.
“A show like this deserves a British title battle and that is what we will get when Sam Gilley and Lewis Greene trade bombs, plus we’ve got a European title fight for Pierce O’Leary at super lightweight that will position him for big nights in Ireland.
“I am also particularly looking forward to seeing our Olympians show their pedigree, with Delicious having his second pro fight and we welcome Lewis Richardson to Queensberry for his debut.”
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Updated history of the bridgerweight division |
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WBC / MAY 1, 2025... As expected Kevin Lerena retained his WBC 224-pound championship with a third-round technical knockout victory over Ukrainian journeyman Serhiy Radchenko. Fighting in his home country, Lerena pummeled Radchenko in round two, knocking him down three times, although one was ruled to be a slip. Radchenko, a blown-up cruiserweight whose record is now 11-8, clearly had enough after two rounds, shaking his head no to his corner. He was convinced to go out for round three, but when the beating continued, Radchenko's corner threw in the towel. Lerena improves to 31-3.
JAN. 31, 2025... WBA 224-pound champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov continued his professional winning streak at the International Boxing Center in Moscow. In a non-title ten rounder, Gadzhimagomedov defeated South Africa’s Thabiso Mchunu by a unanimous decision on an IBA Fight Night show. Official scores were 100-90 (twice) and 100-91. The Russian was dynamic throughout, with the win never in doubt. He slowly picked away at Mchunu, having the reach and height advantage that helped him pile up winning rounds on his way to the victory. Boxingtalk recognizes Gadzhimagomedov as 9-0, while Mchunu falls to 23-8, with three straight decision losses.
WBA / OCT. 17, 2024: In a very dull fight held at the Ufa Arena in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia, Muslim Gadzhimagomedov (listed at 5-0 but more accurately 8-0) retained the WBA bridgerweight title, defeating a sleepwalking Leon Harth of Germany. All three scorecards were 120-108. Now 22-6-1, Harth fought as a 175 pounder in a few fights but has blown up in weight to compete in the 224-pound division. The most excitement in the fight occurred when world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev stepped into the ring just before the verdict was announced to the crowd.
WBC / OCT 8, 2024: The WBC received official confirmation that Lawrence Okolie has relinquished his WBC bridgerwieght championship in order to pursue his dream of becoming a heavyweight champion. The WBC also announced that interim champion Kevin Lerena has been elevated to become the new WBC bridgerwieght champion. Okolie, who has no fight scheduled but did not wish to fight Lerena, said, "After much consideration it is with a heavy heart that I have to unfortunately relinquish the WBC bridgerweight belt respectfully requesting to be rated in the top 5 in the heavyweight division.”
WBA / JULY 13, 2024: Russia’s Muslim Gadzhimagomedov defeated China’s Zhaoxin Zhang (12-3-1) to win the vacant WBA bridgerweight championship on Friday in Serpukhov, Russia. For the second straight fight, Zhang showed an extraordinary ability to absorb punishment, but there were no complaints when the referee stopped the bout in round five even with Zhang still on his feet. The title went vacant after former champion Evgeny Tishchenko tested positive for banned substances. Gadzhimagomedov (4-0) is a 2021 Olympic silver medalist in the 201-pound division. He turned pro in 2021 and has measured himself against much more experienced opponents with relatively easy victories over all. Zhang (12-3-1) had won two of his last three fights, including a KO victory most recently over previously unbeaten Evgeny Romanov in a WBA eliminator that took place in Romanov's home country, Russia.
WBA / MAY 26, 2024: The WBA has stripped Evgeny Tischenko, its first bridgerweight champion, due to a positive doping test. On November 28, 2023, the WBA sanctioned Tishchenko and Leon Harth of Germany to fight for the newly created WBA 224-pound title. On December 9th, Tishchenko and Harth fought in Dubai, with Tishchenko winning by sixth-round technical knockout and gaining recognition as the champion, recognition that would prove to be unearned and short-lived. Two months later in Russia, Zhaoxin Zhang of China won an elimination bout to become Tischchenko's mandatory challenger. But on March 30th of this year, the Middle East Professional Boxing [Commission in] Dubai, United Arab Emirates notified the WBA that Tishchenko's “A” urine sample from December had tested positive for a banned substance, 2-Amino-5-Methylhexane. The result of the title fight was changed to a no contest. WBC / MAY 25, 2024: Great Britain's Lawrence Okolie knocked down Lukasz Rozanski three times in the opening round to win the WBC bridgerweight (224-pound) world title in Poland on Friday night. The fight was not really of world-level quality as Rozanski looked out of shape and generally awful, but the win technically makes Okolie a two-weight world champion. The British Okolie (20-1) reigned as the WBO 200-pound champion from 2021-2023. Keep in mind, the undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk weighed 223 pounds when defeating Tyson Fury last week, so there is really no dispute who is the world's best 224-pound boxer. MAY 19, 2024: Although not a bridgerweight fight, Oleksandr Usyk was 223 pounds, below the bridgerweight limit, when he made boxing history by becoming the first undisputed world heavyweight champion of the century. The Ukrainian Usyk outboxed Great Britain's Tyson Fury, although it was ruled a split decision. Boxingtalk scored it 115-112 for Usyk, who remains undefeated as a professional. Usyk was trailing at the midway point but turned the momentum back his way and knocked Fury down towards the end of round nine. Usyk added Fury's WBC heavyweight title to the WBA, WBO and IBF versions he previously owned. An Olympic gold medal winner as well as undisputed world champion at cruiserweight and now heavyweight, Usyk has to be considered an all-time great For those following the new bridgerweight division, Usyk must be considered the world's best.
FEB. 10, 2024... Unheralded Zhaoxin Zhang of China delivered a spectacular knockout against Evgeny Romanov on Saturday to win a WBA elimination bout in the bridgerweight (224-pound) division. Fighting on hostile turf in Yekaterinburg, Russia, Zhang ended the bout in only two rounds after a combination sent the Russian to the canvas in very bad condition. The referee did not allow the favored Romanov to continue despite him beating the ten count. But the fight was not easy for Zhang, who was punished from the first bell and looked vulnerable in the beginning of the fight. Zhang was knocked down by Romanov but he overcame that plus several cuts to his face to fight back and pull off the upset with a dramatic victory. Zhang now becomes the mandatory challenger to another Russian, Evgeny Tishchenko. Zhang puts himself on the boxing map with a record of 12-2-1 with 7 KOs. Romanov lost his undefeated record and is now 19-1 with 12 KOs.
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Updated history of the bridgerweight division
WBC / MAY 1, 2025... As expected Kevin Lerena retained his WBC 224-pound championship with a third-round technical knockout victory over Ukrainian journeyman Serhiy Radchenko. Fighting in his home country, Lerena pummeled Radchenko in round two, knocking him down three times, although one was ruled to be a slip. Radchenko, a blown-up cruiserweight whose record is now 11-8, clearly had enough after two rounds, shaking his head no to his corner. He was convinced to go out for round three, but when the beating continued, Radchenko's corner threw in the towel. Lerena improves to 31-3.
JAN. 31, 2025... WBA 224-pound champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov continued his professional winning streak at the International Boxing Center in Moscow. In a non-title ten rounder, Gadzhimagomedov defeated South Africa’s Thabiso Mchunu by a unanimous decision on an IBA Fight Night show. Official scores were 100-90 (twice) and 100-91. The Russian was dynamic throughout, with the win never in doubt. He slowly picked away at Mchunu, having the reach and height advantage that helped him pile up winning rounds on his way to the victory. Boxingtalk recognizes Gadzhimagomedov as 9-0, while Mchunu falls to 23-8, with three straight decision losses.
WBA / OCT. 17, 2024: In a very dull fight held at the Ufa Arena in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia, Muslim Gadzhimagomedov (listed at 5-0 but more accurately 8-0) retained the WBA bridgerweight title, defeating a sleepwalking Leon Harth of Germany. All three scorecards were 120-108. Now 22-6-1, Harth fought as a 175 pounder in a few fights but has blown up in weight to compete in the 224-pound division. The most excitement in the fight occurred when world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev stepped into the ring just before the verdict was announced to the crowd.
WBC / OCT 8, 2024: The WBC received official confirmation that Lawrence Okolie has relinquished his WBC bridgerwieght championship in order to pursue his dream of becoming a heavyweight champion. The WBC also announced that interim champion Kevin Lerena has been elevated to become the new WBC bridgerwieght champion. Okolie, who has no fight scheduled but did not wish to fight Lerena, said, "After much consideration it is with a heavy heart that I have to unfortunately relinquish the WBC bridgerweight belt respectfully requesting to be rated in the top 5 in the heavyweight division.”
WBA / JULY 13, 2024: Russia’s Muslim Gadzhimagomedov defeated China’s Zhaoxin Zhang (12-3-1) to win the vacant WBA bridgerweight championship on Friday in Serpukhov, Russia. For the second straight fight, Zhang showed an extraordinary ability to absorb punishment, but there were no complaints when the referee stopped the bout in round five even with Zhang still on his feet. The title went vacant after former champion Evgeny Tishchenko tested positive for banned substances. Gadzhimagomedov (4-0) is a 2021 Olympic silver medalist in the 201-pound division. He turned pro in 2021 and has measured himself against much more experienced opponents with relatively easy victories over all. Zhang (12-3-1) had won two of his last three fights, including a KO victory most recently over previously unbeaten Evgeny Romanov in a WBA eliminator that took place in Romanov's home country, Russia.
WBA / MAY 26, 2024: The WBA has stripped Evgeny Tischenko, its first bridgerweight champion, due to a positive doping test. On November 28, 2023, the WBA sanctioned Tishchenko and Leon Harth of Germany to fight for the newly created WBA 224-pound title. On December 9th, Tishchenko and Harth fought in Dubai, with Tishchenko winning by sixth-round technical knockout and gaining recognition as the champion, recognition that would prove to be unearned and short-lived. Two months later in Russia, Zhaoxin Zhang of China won an elimination bout to become Tischchenko's mandatory challenger. But on March 30th of this year, the Middle East Professional Boxing [Commission in] Dubai, United Arab Emirates notified the WBA that Tishchenko's “A” urine sample from December had tested positive for a banned substance, 2-Amino-5-Methylhexane. The result of the title fight was changed to a no contest. WBC / MAY 25, 2024: Great Britain's Lawrence Okolie knocked down Lukasz Rozanski three times in the opening round to win the WBC bridgerweight (224-pound) world title in Poland on Friday night. The fight was not really of world-level quality as Rozanski looked out of shape and generally awful, but the win technically makes Okolie a two-weight world champion. The British Okolie (20-1) reigned as the WBO 200-pound champion from 2021-2023. Keep in mind, the undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk weighed 223 pounds when defeating Tyson Fury last week, so there is really no dispute who is the world's best 224-pound boxer. MAY 19, 2024: Although not a bridgerweight fight, Oleksandr Usyk was 223 pounds, below the bridgerweight limit, when he made boxing history by becoming the first undisputed world heavyweight champion of the century. The Ukrainian Usyk outboxed Great Britain's Tyson Fury, although it was ruled a split decision. Boxingtalk scored it 115-112 for Usyk, who remains undefeated as a professional. Usyk was trailing at the midway point but turned the momentum back his way and knocked Fury down towards the end of round nine. Usyk added Fury's WBC heavyweight title to the WBA, WBO and IBF versions he previously owned. An Olympic gold medal winner as well as undisputed world champion at cruiserweight and now heavyweight, Usyk has to be considered an all-time great For those following the new bridgerweight division, Usyk must be considered the world's best.
FEB. 10, 2024... Unheralded Zhaoxin Zhang of China delivered a spectacular knockout against Evgeny Romanov on Saturday to win a WBA elimination bout in the bridgerweight (224-pound) division. Fighting on hostile turf in Yekaterinburg, Russia, Zhang ended the bout in only two rounds after a combination sent the Russian to the canvas in very bad condition. The referee did not allow the favored Romanov to continue despite him beating the ten count. But the fight was not easy for Zhang, who was punished from the first bell and looked vulnerable in the beginning of the fight. Zhang was knocked down by Romanov but he overcame that plus several cuts to his face to fight back and pull off the upset with a dramatic victory. Zhang now becomes the mandatory challenger to another Russian, Evgeny Tishchenko. Zhang puts himself on the boxing map with a record of 12-2-1 with 7 KOs. Romanov lost his undefeated record and is now 19-1 with 12 KOs.
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Turki Alalshikh will develop a boxing video game |
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Turki Alalshikh (pictured), the most powerful man in boxing, is planning to develop a new boxing video game. Here is his social me dia announcement: "Together with Japanese video game designer Takashi Nishiyama, I am proud to announce a forthcoming boxing game featuring original characters. This strategic partnership between myself and Nishiyama brings together our unmatched authority in boxing with game developer Dimps’ decades-long experience in crafting classic games. Nishiyama is best known as the creator of the iconic Street Fighter franchise - arguably the greatest fighting game series of all time. While at Capcom, he worked on classic games such as The King of Fighters and Metal Slug while at SNK he also created Fatal Fury. Development of our untitled Ring Magazine boxing game with Dimps will begin soon and we can’t wait to unveil more details in the future."
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Turki Alalshikh will develop a boxing video game
Turki Alalshikh (pictured), the most powerful man in boxing, is planning to develop a new boxing video game. Here is his social me dia announcement: "Together with Japanese video game designer Takashi Nishiyama, I am proud to announce a forthcoming boxing game featuring original characters. This strategic partnership between myself and Nishiyama brings together our unmatched authority in boxing with game developer Dimps’ decades-long experience in crafting classic games. Nishiyama is best known as the creator of the iconic Street Fighter franchise - arguably the greatest fighting game series of all time. While at Capcom, he worked on classic games such as The King of Fighters and Metal Slug while at SNK he also created Fatal Fury. Development of our untitled Ring Magazine boxing game with Dimps will begin soon and we can’t wait to unveil more details in the future."
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IBA wants to sanction bare knuckle fighting |
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The International Boxing Association (IBA) intends to become a global bare knuckles boxing governing body. The decision to embrace this discipline was made at the IBA Board of Directors meeting in Dubai on Monday. The portfolio of IBA events, which now includes amateur and professional boxing, extends to a bare-knuckle discipline, inheriting boxing rules but without gloves. ‘The evolution of the sport needs to meet the interests of a new generation of athletes and fans worldwide,’ IBA president Umar Kremlev said. ‘Boxing, as we know it today, comes from fist fighting, which is a pure and primal form of our sport. The IBA remains at the forefront of innovation and honors the origin of boxing, hence, the idea to become a governing body for bare-knuckle fights was born. It is a return to the essence of boxing, a great spectacle and showcase of skills and courage.’
IBA is developing a rulebook and guidelines to determine the best practice for the new discipline. While concentrating on delivering the best-quality events, IBA will maintain the highest safety standards. The new structure will provide the best opportunities for the professional development of boxers and attract new fans to the sport at the same time. IBA invites bare knuckle promoters to contact us for collaboration and encourages national boxing federations to create bare knuckles departments within their structure to regulate the discipline on the national level.
The details of the IBA Bare Knuckle Boxing are to be announced at the Press Conference in Istanbul on June 17th.
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IBA wants to sanction bare knuckle fighting
The International Boxing Association (IBA) intends to become a global bare knuckles boxing governing body. The decision to embrace this discipline was made at the IBA Board of Directors meeting in Dubai on Monday. The portfolio of IBA events, which now includes amateur and professional boxing, extends to a bare-knuckle discipline, inheriting boxing rules but without gloves. ‘The evolution of the sport needs to meet the interests of a new generation of athletes and fans worldwide,’ IBA president Umar Kremlev said. ‘Boxing, as we know it today, comes from fist fighting, which is a pure and primal form of our sport. The IBA remains at the forefront of innovation and honors the origin of boxing, hence, the idea to become a governing body for bare-knuckle fights was born. It is a return to the essence of boxing, a great spectacle and showcase of skills and courage.’
IBA is developing a rulebook and guidelines to determine the best practice for the new discipline. While concentrating on delivering the best-quality events, IBA will maintain the highest safety standards. The new structure will provide the best opportunities for the professional development of boxers and attract new fans to the sport at the same time. IBA invites bare knuckle promoters to contact us for collaboration and encourages national boxing federations to create bare knuckles departments within their structure to regulate the discipline on the national level.
The details of the IBA Bare Knuckle Boxing are to be announced at the Press Conference in Istanbul on June 17th.
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IBF schedules purse bid for Hrgovic vs. Sanchez |
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On April 14th, the IBF ordered Frank Sanchez and Filip Hrgovic to begin negotiations for a bout that would determine the IBF's #1 ranking in the heavyweight division. The IBF reports that an agreement has not yet been reached. The IBF has therefore scheduled a purse bid for Thursday, May 15th. Hrgovic is coming off a win over Joe Joyce, while Sanchez lost his last major fight to Agit Kabayel but returned with a very low-level win over Ramon Olivas Echevarria in February. The IBF heavyweight championship is currently held by Daniel Dubois. In July, Dubois will face Oleksandr Usyk, the holder of the other three major heavyweight titles as well as the generally recognized world heavyweight champion. Usyk defeated Dubois in 2023.
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IBF schedules purse bid for Hrgovic vs. Sanchez
On April 14th, the IBF ordered Frank Sanchez and Filip Hrgovic to begin negotiations for a bout that would determine the IBF's #1 ranking in the heavyweight division. The IBF reports that an agreement has not yet been reached. The IBF has therefore scheduled a purse bid for Thursday, May 15th. Hrgovic is coming off a win over Joe Joyce, while Sanchez lost his last major fight to Agit Kabayel but returned with a very low-level win over Ramon Olivas Echevarria in February. The IBF heavyweight championship is currently held by Daniel Dubois. In July, Dubois will face Oleksandr Usyk, the holder of the other three major heavyweight titles as well as the generally recognized world heavyweight champion. Usyk defeated Dubois in 2023.
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Inoue gets off canvas to TKO Cardenas in super bantamweight war |
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Naoya Inoue TKO8 Ramon Cardenas ... [In what was easily the best fight of a huge weekend of boxing], the Monster returned to American soil for the first time in almost four years, and he did not disappoint. Naoya Inoue defended his undisputed world 122-pound championship with an eighth-round TKO against Ramon Cardenas on Sunday evening at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Inoue (30-0, 27 KOs) looked to finish the night early but was knocked down in the second round by a counter left hook. He maintained his composure, but with renewed respect for Cardenas (26-2, 14 KOs), who remained dangerous with counter lefts and right hands. By rounds five and six, Inoue began landing counter punches cleanly, forcing Cardenas to cover up while Inoue looked for openings around his guard. Inoue was more careful this time, moving back just enough to avoid counter left hooks or blocking the occasional overhand right. In the seventh, Cardenas had Inoue on the defensive as the Japanese star absorbed punches with his gloves. But moments later, Inoue stunned Cardenas with a right hand before consecutive rights dropped him. Cardenas returned to his feet, but another flurry in the following round forced referee Thomas Taylor to halt the contest at :45.
Inoue said. "By watching tonight’s fight, everyone is well aware that I like to brawl. I was very surprised {at the knockdown}, but I took things calmly and put myself together. In the first round, I felt I had good distance. It got loose in the second round. From then on, I made sure to not take that punch again. The fans here were supportive and great. And I hope I was able to entertain them.”
Cardenas said, “I never cared about losses. It’s about the best fighting the best. I dreamed about fighting in front of thousands of people in Las Vegas. So I came to give everything. I told my trainer that if I’m going out, then I’m going to go out on my shield. That’s what I did. I’m not sad. But I’m bummed out. It is what it is.”
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Inoue gets off canvas to TKO Cardenas in super bantamweight war
Naoya Inoue TKO8 Ramon Cardenas ... [In what was easily the best fight of a huge weekend of boxing], the Monster returned to American soil for the first time in almost four years, and he did not disappoint. Naoya Inoue defended his undisputed world 122-pound championship with an eighth-round TKO against Ramon Cardenas on Sunday evening at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Inoue (30-0, 27 KOs) looked to finish the night early but was knocked down in the second round by a counter left hook. He maintained his composure, but with renewed respect for Cardenas (26-2, 14 KOs), who remained dangerous with counter lefts and right hands. By rounds five and six, Inoue began landing counter punches cleanly, forcing Cardenas to cover up while Inoue looked for openings around his guard. Inoue was more careful this time, moving back just enough to avoid counter left hooks or blocking the occasional overhand right. In the seventh, Cardenas had Inoue on the defensive as the Japanese star absorbed punches with his gloves. But moments later, Inoue stunned Cardenas with a right hand before consecutive rights dropped him. Cardenas returned to his feet, but another flurry in the following round forced referee Thomas Taylor to halt the contest at :45.
Inoue said. "By watching tonight’s fight, everyone is well aware that I like to brawl. I was very surprised {at the knockdown}, but I took things calmly and put myself together. In the first round, I felt I had good distance. It got loose in the second round. From then on, I made sure to not take that punch again. The fans here were supportive and great. And I hope I was able to entertain them.”
Cardenas said, “I never cared about losses. It’s about the best fighting the best. I dreamed about fighting in front of thousands of people in Las Vegas. So I came to give everything. I told my trainer that if I’m going out, then I’m going to go out on my shield. That’s what I did. I’m not sad. But I’m bummed out. It is what it is.”
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Espinoza retains title by stopping Vazquez |
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Rafael Espinoza TKO7 Edward Vazquez... Mexican featherweight Rafael Espinoza (27-0, 23 KOs) celebrated Cinco de Mayo by defending his WBO crown with a seventh-round stoppage against Edward Vazquez (17-3, 4 KOs). Espinoza (27-0, 23 KOs) controlled the fight early with a stiff jab and swift footwork, but he could not resist fighting on the inside, going punch for punch with Vazquez in rounds three and four. By the fifth, Vazquez was wearing down, and continuous uppercuts and punches to the body eventually forced him to retreat against the ropes. Espinoza forced the stoppage at 1:17 of the seventh with a nonstop barrage. “I knew he was a great opponent. I knew he would come to fight. And that’s good because it allowed me to show more of my capabilities,” Espinoza said. “This is the kind of fight that people like to watch. And I like it, too. The people deserve these types of fights. And, as a Mexican fighting on this important Mexican date, I did it with all of my heart, and I will continue doing so. In order for a new Mexican idol to be born, I’ll need to fight against the best. So, I’m here. I’m the champion. And I’m here to fight against the best.”
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Espinoza retains title by stopping Vazquez
Rafael Espinoza TKO7 Edward Vazquez... Mexican featherweight Rafael Espinoza (27-0, 23 KOs) celebrated Cinco de Mayo by defending his WBO crown with a seventh-round stoppage against Edward Vazquez (17-3, 4 KOs). Espinoza (27-0, 23 KOs) controlled the fight early with a stiff jab and swift footwork, but he could not resist fighting on the inside, going punch for punch with Vazquez in rounds three and four. By the fifth, Vazquez was wearing down, and continuous uppercuts and punches to the body eventually forced him to retreat against the ropes. Espinoza forced the stoppage at 1:17 of the seventh with a nonstop barrage. “I knew he was a great opponent. I knew he would come to fight. And that’s good because it allowed me to show more of my capabilities,” Espinoza said. “This is the kind of fight that people like to watch. And I like it, too. The people deserve these types of fights. And, as a Mexican fighting on this important Mexican date, I did it with all of my heart, and I will continue doing so. In order for a new Mexican idol to be born, I’ll need to fight against the best. So, I’m here. I’m the champion. And I’m here to fight against the best.”
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Undercard results from Las Vegas |
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Raeese Aleem W10 Rudy Garcia ... On Top Rank's undercard in Las Vegas, featherweight contender Raeese Aleem (22-1, 12 KOs) tallied a ten-round unanimous decision win over Rudy Garcia (13-2-1, 2 KOs). The judges scoresd to wide for Aleeem: 98-92, 97-93, and 99-91.
Rohan Polanco W10 Fabian Maidana ... In the welterweight division, Dominican Olympian Rohan Polanco (16-0, 10 KOs) cruised to a ten-round unanimous decision over Argentina's Fabian Maidana (24-4, 18 KOs). Polanco pressed forward from a shoulder roll stance, forcing Maidana to stay cautious and limiting the action. Nevertheless, Polanco punctuated the performance with a right uppercut to the solar plexus that dropped Maidana in the final round. The bout was scored a shutout, 100-89 (thrice).
Emiliano Fernando Vargas KO2 Juan Leon... Junior welterweight Emiliano Fernando Vargas (14-0, 12 KOs) registered a highlight-reel second-round knockout against Juan Leon (11-3-1, 2 KOs). Measuring from a calm high guard, he clipped Leon with counter jabs before dropping him in the opening round with a right hand. Leon recovered, only to be floored again with a left uppercut, forcing the referee to end the contest at 1:40.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Japanese featherweight Mikito Nakano (13-0, 12 KOs) dropped Pedro Marquez (16-2, 10 KOs) five times en route to a fourth-round stoppage. After scoring two knockdowns in the second and one in the third, Nakana closed the show by sending Marquez to the canvas twice in the fourth.
Art Barrera Jr. (9-0, 7 KOs) stopped Juan Carlos Guerra Jr. (6-2-1, 2 KOs) in the sixth round of a junior middleweight contest. Guerra pressed forward early and made Barrera work from the outside, but Barrera found his range by the fifth and landed clean power shots nearly at will, forcing the referee to step in at 1:15.
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Undercard results from Las Vegas
Raeese Aleem W10 Rudy Garcia ... On Top Rank's undercard in Las Vegas, featherweight contender Raeese Aleem (22-1, 12 KOs) tallied a ten-round unanimous decision win over Rudy Garcia (13-2-1, 2 KOs). The judges scoresd to wide for Aleeem: 98-92, 97-93, and 99-91.
Rohan Polanco W10 Fabian Maidana ... In the welterweight division, Dominican Olympian Rohan Polanco (16-0, 10 KOs) cruised to a ten-round unanimous decision over Argentina's Fabian Maidana (24-4, 18 KOs). Polanco pressed forward from a shoulder roll stance, forcing Maidana to stay cautious and limiting the action. Nevertheless, Polanco punctuated the performance with a right uppercut to the solar plexus that dropped Maidana in the final round. The bout was scored a shutout, 100-89 (thrice).
Emiliano Fernando Vargas KO2 Juan Leon... Junior welterweight Emiliano Fernando Vargas (14-0, 12 KOs) registered a highlight-reel second-round knockout against Juan Leon (11-3-1, 2 KOs). Measuring from a calm high guard, he clipped Leon with counter jabs before dropping him in the opening round with a right hand. Leon recovered, only to be floored again with a left uppercut, forcing the referee to end the contest at 1:40.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Japanese featherweight Mikito Nakano (13-0, 12 KOs) dropped Pedro Marquez (16-2, 10 KOs) five times en route to a fourth-round stoppage. After scoring two knockdowns in the second and one in the third, Nakana closed the show by sending Marquez to the canvas twice in the fourth.
Art Barrera Jr. (9-0, 7 KOs) stopped Juan Carlos Guerra Jr. (6-2-1, 2 KOs) in the sixth round of a junior middleweight contest. Guerra pressed forward early and made Barrera work from the outside, but Barrera found his range by the fifth and landed clean power shots nearly at will, forcing the referee to step in at 1:15.
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Wlodarczyk and Balksi in all-Polish eliminator |
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Former cruiserweight champion Krzysztof Wlodarczyk will face Adam Balski for the WBC interim bridgerweight belt on Sunday, May 25th in Kalisz, Poland. Wlodarczyk, who is from Poland, has a career record of 65-4-1. He is 43 years old and enjoyed two regins as a cruiserweight titlist, from 2006-2007 and 2010-2015. Balski (20-2) is also Polish and will be fighting in the town in which he was born. The winner will be in line for a mandatory shot at WBC champion Kevin “KO Kid” Lerena who has just retained his title this week. Also scheduled to appear on the show will be Michał Soczyński, Mateusz Bereźnicki and Ihosvany Garcia Torres.
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Wlodarczyk and Balksi in all-Polish eliminator
Former cruiserweight champion Krzysztof Wlodarczyk will face Adam Balski for the WBC interim bridgerweight belt on Sunday, May 25th in Kalisz, Poland. Wlodarczyk, who is from Poland, has a career record of 65-4-1. He is 43 years old and enjoyed two regins as a cruiserweight titlist, from 2006-2007 and 2010-2015. Balski (20-2) is also Polish and will be fighting in the town in which he was born. The winner will be in line for a mandatory shot at WBC champion Kevin “KO Kid” Lerena who has just retained his title this week. Also scheduled to appear on the show will be Michał Soczyński, Mateusz Bereźnicki and Ihosvany Garcia Torres.
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Bohachuk to face Fox on May 17th |
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Tom Loeffler's 360 Promotions presents pro boxing on Saturday, May 17th at the Commerce Casino Events Center in Commerce, California. The show, which will be broadcast globally on UFC Fight Pass, features the return of WBC #1 ranked junior middleweight Serhii 'El Flaco' Bohachuk (25-2, 24 KOs) against Mykal 'The Professor' Fox, (25-4, 5 KOs). Also featured will be featherweight Omar Trinidad, (18-0-1, 13 KOs) versus Alexander 'Supernova' Espinoza, (23-6-3, 8 KOs), and WBA 115-pound champion Mizuki Hiruta (7-0, 2 KOs) defending her title for the fourth time against Carla Ayelen 'Muneca' Merino, (16-2, 4 KOs). All three fights are scheduled for ten rounds.
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Bohachuk to face Fox on May 17th
Tom Loeffler's 360 Promotions presents pro boxing on Saturday, May 17th at the Commerce Casino Events Center in Commerce, California. The show, which will be broadcast globally on UFC Fight Pass, features the return of WBC #1 ranked junior middleweight Serhii 'El Flaco' Bohachuk (25-2, 24 KOs) against Mykal 'The Professor' Fox, (25-4, 5 KOs). Also featured will be featherweight Omar Trinidad, (18-0-1, 13 KOs) versus Alexander 'Supernova' Espinoza, (23-6-3, 8 KOs), and WBA 115-pound champion Mizuki Hiruta (7-0, 2 KOs) defending her title for the fourth time against Carla Ayelen 'Muneca' Merino, (16-2, 4 KOs). All three fights are scheduled for ten rounds.
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Turki Alalshikh says Dana White / TKO will promote Alvarez-Crawford |
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Turki Alalshikh (pictured), the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, has dropped a bombshell announcement about the next super fight in the Unnited States: "We will deliver the fight of the century with Riyadh Season on September 12th at Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium. The legend Canelo Alvarez defends his [undisputed world super middleweight championship] vs. the great [undefeated multi-division champion] Terence Crawford. The television platform will be announced soon with big surprise. My brother Dana White [of UFC] will promote this first TKO boxing event with me. It will be something crazy." TKO is the parent company of UFC, the world's leading mixed martial arts promoter.
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Turki Alalshikh says Dana White / TKO will promote Alvarez-Crawford
Turki Alalshikh (pictured), the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, has dropped a bombshell announcement about the next super fight in the Unnited States: "We will deliver the fight of the century with Riyadh Season on September 12th at Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium. The legend Canelo Alvarez defends his [undisputed world super middleweight championship] vs. the great [undefeated multi-division champion] Terence Crawford. The television platform will be announced soon with big surprise. My brother Dana White [of UFC] will promote this first TKO boxing event with me. It will be something crazy." TKO is the parent company of UFC, the world's leading mixed martial arts promoter.
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The numbers don't lie, chapter 2 |
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How bad were the three main fights this weekend (Saul "Canelo" Alvarez's win over William Scull in Saudi Arabia and the final two fights on the big Times Square show from New York City)? According to Compubox, which has been tracking fights for about forty years, Canelo's 152-punch output over twelve rounds was the lowest total Compubox has ever recorded for a winning fighter. Devis Boschiero threw fewer punches in a 2106 loss to Mario Barrios, but Boschiero lost 120-107 on all three scorecards. Here are the lowest punch outputs Compubox has recorded in tweve round fights:
130- Devis Boschiero (vs. Mario Barrios)
152 - Canelo Alvarez (vs. William Scull)
154- Malik Scott (vs. Luis Ortiz)
170- David Haye (vs. Nicolai Valuev).
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Alvarez vs. Scull, and the two Times Square Fights (Devin Haney vs. Juan Carlos Ramirez and Rolly Romero vs. Ryan Garcia) featured such low punches thrown totals that they rearranged the Compubox record book. The three fights this weekend are among the six lowest twelve-round fights in terms of the fewest combined punches thrown. Here is the top six in Compubox's database:
445 - Canelo Alvarez (152) vs. William Scull (293);
459- Joseph Parker (255) vs. Deontay Wilder (204);
473- Sulton Ibragimov (245) vs. Shannon Briggs (228);
490- Ryan Garcia (210) vs. Rollie Romero (280);
499- Devin Haney (214) vs. Ryan Garcia (285);
503- Devin Haney (224) vs. Juan Carlos Ramirez (279).
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The numbers don't lie, chapter 2
How bad were the three main fights this weekend (Saul "Canelo" Alvarez's win over William Scull in Saudi Arabia and the final two fights on the big Times Square show from New York City)? According to Compubox, which has been tracking fights for about forty years, Canelo's 152-punch output over twelve rounds was the lowest total Compubox has ever recorded for a winning fighter. Devis Boschiero threw fewer punches in a 2106 loss to Mario Barrios, but Boschiero lost 120-107 on all three scorecards. Here are the lowest punch outputs Compubox has recorded in tweve round fights:
130- Devis Boschiero (vs. Mario Barrios)
152 - Canelo Alvarez (vs. William Scull)
154- Malik Scott (vs. Luis Ortiz)
170- David Haye (vs. Nicolai Valuev).
***
Alvarez vs. Scull, and the two Times Square Fights (Devin Haney vs. Juan Carlos Ramirez and Rolly Romero vs. Ryan Garcia) featured such low punches thrown totals that they rearranged the Compubox record book. The three fights this weekend are among the six lowest twelve-round fights in terms of the fewest combined punches thrown. Here is the top six in Compubox's database:
445 - Canelo Alvarez (152) vs. William Scull (293);
459- Joseph Parker (255) vs. Deontay Wilder (204);
473- Sulton Ibragimov (245) vs. Shannon Briggs (228);
490- Ryan Garcia (210) vs. Rollie Romero (280);
499- Devin Haney (214) vs. Ryan Garcia (285);
503- Devin Haney (224) vs. Juan Carlos Ramirez (279).
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Alvarez tops reluctant Scull to set up Sept. 12th fight vs. Crawford |
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Saul Alvarez W12 William Scull... In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, world super middleweight champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez regained the IBF title from the defensive-minded William Scull, a German-based Cuban. The fight was not exciting, and early Punchstat numbers indicated the 445 combined punches thrown was the lowest recorded total for a twelve-round fight in Compubox's forty-year history. If Alvarez-Scull is remembered at all, it will only be because it set up a huge fight between Alvarez and multi-division champion Terence Crawford later this year. Scull enjoyed a height and reach advantage over Alvarez but fought mostly in retreat. The enduring image of Scull from this fight will be him moving away from Alvarez with his hands over his head. Oddly, Scull's smiles and body language for musch of the fight indicated he thought he was beating Alvarez, but few would agree with that assessment. Certainly, the judges didn't agree with Scull, scoring the fight for Alvarez by counts of 115-113, 116-112 and 119-109. Scull (23-1) did not win himself any fans with his performance. Even Alvarez seemed frustrated with Scull's negative performance. "For me it was a boring fight," admitted Alvarez. "He was just trying to survive."
Alvarez (63-2-2) seems like his legendary skills are beginning to fade. He had an extremely low punch output, perhpas historically low, and he was ineffective in cutting off the ring. He also has not scored a knockout since 2021, when he got to Caleb Plant in the eleventh round. After the fight, de facto promoter Turki Alalshikh had Alvarez and Crawford face off in the ring and announced they will face each other on September 13th in Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium.
Scull was one of the most lightly regarded champions in boxing, having acquired a vacant IBF title that was stripped from Alvarez because he was faced with multiple mandatory defenses. Scull did not impress even in winning the vacant title last October, because he gained the belt via a controversial decision over Vladimir Shishkin. The belt was the only reason Alvarez had any interest in fighting Scull.
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Alvarez tops reluctant Scull to set up Sept. 12th fight vs. Crawford
Saul Alvarez W12 William Scull... In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, world super middleweight champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez regained the IBF title from the defensive-minded William Scull, a German-based Cuban. The fight was not exciting, and early Punchstat numbers indicated the 445 combined punches thrown was the lowest recorded total for a twelve-round fight in Compubox's forty-year history. If Alvarez-Scull is remembered at all, it will only be because it set up a huge fight between Alvarez and multi-division champion Terence Crawford later this year. Scull enjoyed a height and reach advantage over Alvarez but fought mostly in retreat. The enduring image of Scull from this fight will be him moving away from Alvarez with his hands over his head. Oddly, Scull's smiles and body language for musch of the fight indicated he thought he was beating Alvarez, but few would agree with that assessment. Certainly, the judges didn't agree with Scull, scoring the fight for Alvarez by counts of 115-113, 116-112 and 119-109. Scull (23-1) did not win himself any fans with his performance. Even Alvarez seemed frustrated with Scull's negative performance. "For me it was a boring fight," admitted Alvarez. "He was just trying to survive."
Alvarez (63-2-2) seems like his legendary skills are beginning to fade. He had an extremely low punch output, perhpas historically low, and he was ineffective in cutting off the ring. He also has not scored a knockout since 2021, when he got to Caleb Plant in the eleventh round. After the fight, de facto promoter Turki Alalshikh had Alvarez and Crawford face off in the ring and announced they will face each other on September 13th in Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium.
Scull was one of the most lightly regarded champions in boxing, having acquired a vacant IBF title that was stripped from Alvarez because he was faced with multiple mandatory defenses. Scull did not impress even in winning the vacant title last October, because he gained the belt via a controversial decision over Vladimir Shishkin. The belt was the only reason Alvarez had any interest in fighting Scull.
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Badou Jack retains title with some home cooking on the cards |
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Badou Jack W12 Norair Mikaelian ... WBC cruiserweight champion Badou Jack retained his title against former champion Noel Mikaelian a/k/a Norair Mikaelian in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Jack, who lives in the Middle East seemingly got some favorable treatment from the judges, winning a majority decision in what was a very close bout that leaned towards Mikaelian. The official scores were 114-114 and 115-113 (twice) for Jack. Compubox's Punchtats showed Mikaeljan threw 670 punches to Jack's 369, and outlanded Jack, 153 punches to 122. Each fighter entered the bout with some disadvantages. Mikaelian (27-3) stepped in as a somewhat late replacement, getting about three weeks notice to replace the injured Ryan Rozicki. Jack (29-3-3) is 41 years old and hadn't fought in two years, since he captured the crown on February 26, 2023. He was demoted to champion-in-recess, but then had his championship status revived when Mikaelian was demoted from champion to champion in recess due to promotional issues with Don King.
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Badou Jack retains title with some home cooking on the cards
Badou Jack W12 Norair Mikaelian ... WBC cruiserweight champion Badou Jack retained his title against former champion Noel Mikaelian a/k/a Norair Mikaelian in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Jack, who lives in the Middle East seemingly got some favorable treatment from the judges, winning a majority decision in what was a very close bout that leaned towards Mikaelian. The official scores were 114-114 and 115-113 (twice) for Jack. Compubox's Punchtats showed Mikaeljan threw 670 punches to Jack's 369, and outlanded Jack, 153 punches to 122. Each fighter entered the bout with some disadvantages. Mikaelian (27-3) stepped in as a somewhat late replacement, getting about three weeks notice to replace the injured Ryan Rozicki. Jack (29-3-3) is 41 years old and hadn't fought in two years, since he captured the crown on February 26, 2023. He was demoted to champion-in-recess, but then had his championship status revived when Mikaelian was demoted from champion to champion in recess due to promotional issues with Don King.
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