All posts by FNU47

M-1 Challenge 93 Weights & Pictures

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (May 31, 2018) – The official weight in was held today fortomorrow’s M-1 Challenge 93 at Chelyabinsk, Russia.
American fighter Joe “Diesel” Riggs experienced a long, costly trip from the U.S. to Chelyabinsk to challenge undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artiom Frolov in the co-featured event.
“On my way to Russia,” Riggs explained his journey, “we took an Uber to get to the airport. We had an accident. I wanted to take another Uber, but the cops would not let me leave, because they wanted to send me to the hospital to get checked. One of my cornermen had to go to the hospital because he was seated in the part of the car that has been damaged.
“I called the guys in M-1 Global and told them I was not going to make the flight to California. They were freaking out and said there is no way I could miss the flight and come the next day because it would mess everything up. I bought tickets for another flight to California, which would give me around 40 minutes to get in on time for the connection flight to Moscow. I had a choice of either taking my bags and staying overnight in California or leaving my bags and flying right away to Russia. I chose the second option, left my bags, and made it to Moscow. Now, I kind of regret that decision because it cost me around $20,000, which I will lose in sponsorship, but it’s all good, everything happens for a reason.
“Winning the belt would be a great end for my career. M-1 Global is a fantastic organization! This will be my fourth world title and it really means a lot for me. The guy I’m fighting, Artem Frolov, is not well-known, but he will probably be one of the best fighters I’ve ever fought! Anytime you fight for the title, you feel pressure. I was supposed to be the UFC champion when I was 22, but I would not show up for certain fights. I would not fight up to my potential and now I want to enter The Rage, show my best, and get that belt.”
Below find fighters’ weights and main-event pictures:
MAIN CARD
MAIN EVENT – MIDDELWEIGHTS — 3 X 5
 (R) Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko

(56-10-1, M-1: 6-0-0), Russia 184.4 lbs. (83.65 kg)

vs.
(L) Bruno Silva (17-6-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Brazil 186.07 lbs. (84.4 kg)
CO-FEATURE – M-1 CHALLENGE MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 5 X 5
(R) Artiom Frolov (10-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0), Champion, Russia 185.18 lbs. (84 kg)
vs.
(L) Joe “Diesel” Riggs (47-17-1, M-1: 2-0-1), Challenger, USA 185.18 lbs. (84 kg)
FLYWEIGHTS — 3 X 5
(L) Chris “The Greek Assassin” Kelades (12-3-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Canada 124.56 lbs. (56.5 kg)
vs.
(R) Alexander Pletenko (13-4-0, M-1: 0-0-0-), Ukraine 125 lbs. (56.7 kg)
LIGHTWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
(L) Rogerio Karranca (13-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Brazil 154.32 lbs. (70 kg)
vs.
(R) Alexey “Ataman” Makhno (17-6-0, M-1: 4-3-0), Russia lbs. 161.82 lbs. (73.4 kg)
(yellow card) –  
FLYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
 
(L) Mikael “Hulk” Silander (17-6-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Finland 124.78 lbs. (56.6 kg)
vs.
(R) Nureles Aidarov (3-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Kyrgyzstan 124.56 lbs. (56.5 kg)
PRELIMINARY CARD
HEAVYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Charles-Henri Lucien (0-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), France228.62 lbs. (103.7 kg)
vs.
Yuriy Fedorov (pro debut), Russia 260.15 lbs. (118 kg)
Nikolay Rachek (7-5-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 249.12 lbs. (113 kg)
vs.
Nikolay Savilov (11-3-0, M-1: 3-1-0), Russia 231.82 lbs. (105.15 kg)
MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Nikita Novikov (5-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 184.42 lbs. (83.65 kg)
vs.
Vladimir Migovich (0-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 182.87 lbs. (82.95 kg)
Mark Hulme (5-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), South Africa 183.76 lbs. (83.35 kg)
vs.
Vadim Shabadash (7-2-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Russia 184.64 lbs. (83.75 kg)
LIGHTWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Magomed Magomedov (8-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 154.98 lbs. (70.3 kg)
vs.
Nikita Podkovalnikov (1-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 154.54 lbs. (70.1 kg)
BANTAMWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Sergey Klyuev (5-1-0, M-1: 3-1-0), Russia 135.14 lbs. (61.3 kg)
vs.
Ilya Karetnikov (4-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 128.97 lbs. (58.5 kg)
 
FLYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Egor Filidov (Pro Debut), Russia 122.8 lbs. (55.7 kg)
vs.
Pierre Ludet (3-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), France, 125 lbs. (56.7 kg)
(all fights & fighters subject to change)

 

WHEN:           Friday, June 1, 2018
WHERE:         Chelyabinsk, Russia
 
PROMOTER:   M-1 Global
LIVE STREAM: www.m1global.tv (9.00 a.m. ET / 6:00 a.m. PT in USA). Also available onFITE.TV (preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card)
INFORMATION:

Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
@Vfinkelchtein
@M1Global
Facebook:
 
UPCOMING EVENTS:
 
June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia
June 15 – M-1 Challenge 94: Ismagulov vs. Damkovsky in Orenburg, Russia

“Fight Night at the Capital” Press Conference Quotes

 
June 16 at Xfinity Centre in Hartford, CT
Press Conference group picture courtesy of Jason Rodriguez / Superelite Boxing
HARTFORD, Conn. (May 31, 2018) – Hartford Boxing Promotions (HBP) hosted a press conference yesterday at the Hartford Boxing Center to promote its first event, “Fight Night at the Capital”, June 16 at Xfinity Centre in Hartford, Connecticut.
Below are quotes from yesterday’s press conference.
HBP’s goal is to bring quality boxing back to Hartford, which has a rich tradition dating back nearly a full century, headlined by International Hall of Famers Willie “Will o’ the Wisp” Pep and ChristopherBattling” Battalino. Other top-area boxers include world champion Marlon “Magic Man” Starling, world title challengers Gaspar “El Indio” Ortega, and Israel “Pito” Cardona, and 1996 USA Olympic Boxing Team captain Lawrence Clay-Bey.
Tickets, priced at $80.00, $60.00 and $40.00, are on sale and available to purchase, as well as $125.00 VIP tickets that include food and soft drinks), at Ticket Master outlets or at the Hartford Boxing Center gym.
Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout starts at 7 p.m. ET.
 
“FIGHT NIGHT AT THE CAPITAL” * June 16, 2018 * XFINITY CENTRE, HARTFORD, CT  
 
MAIN EVENT – UBF ALL AMERICA &
VACANT ABF CONTINENTAL AMERICAS LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 8 ROUNDS
RICHARD RIVERA                                    JAIME “Zarco” SOLORIO        
Champion                                                       Challenger
Hartford, CT                                                   San Quinton, Mexico
7-0 (6 KOs)                                                    12-3-2 (9 KOs)
CO-FEATURE — LIGHTWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
OMAR BORDOY, JR.                                ALEXANDER PICOT         
Danbury, CT                                           Hartford, CT by way of Puerto Rico
5-0 (1 KO)                                                     2-5-1
SPECIAL JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT ATTRACTION – 4 ROUNDS
SHARAD COLLIER             TBA
2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion                      
Hartford, CT                                                          
Pro Debut                                                       
FEATHERWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
LUIS “Lobito” RIVERA                                  PHILLIP DAVIS
Hartford, CT                                                   Worcester, MA
4-3                                                               1-1-1
LIGHTWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
ANUEL ROSA                                                ROGER BLANKENSHIP
New Haven, CT                                              Cleveland, OH
Pro Debut                                                      1-3
FEATHERWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
NATHAN MARTINEZ                                      HENRY GARCIA
New Britain, CT                                              New Bedford, MA                            
Pro Debut                                                     0-1
LIGHTWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
JOSE MAYSONET                                          JUSTIN MORALES                   
Hartford, CT                                                  New Bedford, MA
Pro Debut                                                     Pro Debut
FEATHERWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
JACOB “Lefty” MARRERO                            JIMMY SANTIAGO
Bridgeport, CT                                               New York, NY
Pro Debut                                                     Pro Debut
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS — 4 ROUNDS
JEFFREY TORRES                                          TBA
New Haven, CT
4-0 (2 KOs)
 
(all fights & fighters subject to change)
PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
Tony Blanco, Promoter: “I’m really excited to do this in Hartford. There wouldn’t be a show without these guys. We work for them.”
Michael Tran, Promoter: “We’re really excited to feature some of top Connecticut boxers including many pro debuts of some of Connecticut’s best young fighters. Fans will be able to see them all in action on June 16th. We’re bringing boxing back and it’s only right that we have this event in the capital of Connecticut.”
 
Richard Rivera: “People ask me why I box? I love it, no other reason. As an amateur, I fought for the love of the sport. I’m blessed now because I’m getting paid, but I still love it. We do need to eat and because we have a lot of pro debuts on this card, it means we have a lot of hungry fighters. On June 16th, I’m going to do my thing and, trust me, there are going to be a lot of fireworks. I’ve watched a lot of these guys train. We’re finally fighting in our hometown and we’re going to better all the time.
“Boxing helps save lives. Boxing is a performing art. Kids get off the street in in the gym. This is a movement! We are a forced to be reckoned with and boxing gives everybody a chance.”.
 
Sharad Collier: “I’d like to thank Tony Blanco and Hartford Boxing Promotions for putting me on this card and my team. It’s going to be a good night. I’m ready to go. I’m going to keep working hard and keep being smart.”
 
Luis Rivera: “I want to thank Hartford Boxing Promotions and my coach, Papo Colon. Come June 16th, it’s going to be an interesting night.”
 
Nathan Martinez: “I’m thankful for this opportunity on June 16th. Come June 16th, expect a big fight.”
 
Jose Maysonet: “Thanks to my team and on June 16th, I will be ready.”
 
Anuel Rosa: “Thanks to Hartford Boxing Promotions for putting me on this show and to my trainer, Luis Rosa, for my eight weeks of training. I knew this day was coming and I’ll be ready. When people see me fight, you’ll want me on the next card.”
 
Jacob Marrero: I want to thank Tony Blanco for this opportunity to make my pro debut and my team for getting me ready for my fight.”
 
Jeffrey Torres: “I want to thank my coach, Luis Rosa. I’ll be 100-percent ready on June 16th.”
*                                          *                                                       *
Sponsors include Hot 93.7 FM, Hartford Boxing Center, Foster Buddies Network and HBC ProShop.
 
INFORMATION;
Facebook: /hartfordboxingcenter
Twitter: @hartfordboxing
Instagram: @hartford.boxing.center/
You Tube: /c/HartfordBoxingCenter

Bare Knuckles debuts LIVE on FITE. WATCH RIGHT HERE THIS SATURDAY!

Bare Knuckles Fighting Championship has set out to make combat sports history in the 21 first century by bringing it back to its roots. The first sanctioned bare knuckle boxing event in USA will premiere on FITE this Saturday the 2nd of June live from Wyoming.

 

 

Veterans from UFC and Bellator join the explosive line up and promise to deliver a show to remember.

Undercard Action Saturday, June 9 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles Features 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas Plus Welterweight Showdown Between Ivan Redkach & Brian Jones & More!

 
Featherweight World Title Rematch Between Leo Santa Cruz &
Abner Mares Headlines Action Live on SHOWTIME

LOS ANGELES (May 31, 2018) – The undercard for the featherweight world championship main event between Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares will feature unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas in a six-round super featherweight fight against Mexico’s Pedro Lopez and a welterweight showdown pitting Ivan Redkach against Brian Jones Saturday, June 9 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

 

 

 

The Santa Cruz vs. Mares rematch headlines action live on SHOWTIME in a telecast that also features unbeaten super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo defending his title against former world champion Austin Trout as part of an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions, begin at $50, plus applicable fees, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit AXS.com or click HERE.

 

 

 

Additional undercard action will feature unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Jose Gomez entering the ring, the pro debut of Westminster, Calif. prospect Lina Licona for a four-round light flyweight attraction, Antonio Santa Cruz in a bantamweight attraction against Mexico’s Jordan Baletero and the older brother of Karlos Balderas, Jose Balderas, stepping into the ring for a four-round super bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

Rounding out the night are unbeaten Oak Hills, Calif. prospect Jerry Perez taking on Louisiana’s Josh Ross in junior lightweight action, unbeaten Arnold Alejandro in a four lightweight matchup, undefeated Angel Alejandro in four rounds of featherweight action, and Ukraine’s Viktor Slavinski in a junior lightweight matchup against Texas-native Carlos Trevino.

 

 

 

The 22-year-old Balderas (4-0, 3 KOs), a first-generation Mexican-American, competed on the U.S. Olympic boxing team in the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil before turning pro in April 2017. Representing Santa Maria, Calif., Balderas scored stoppages in his first three fights before earning a shutout unanimous decision over Jorge Rojas Zacazontetl in February. He will take on the 26-year-old Lopez (7-3-1, 3 KOs) who fights out of Tijuana, Mexico and scored a knockout over Dario Medina in his last outing.

 

 

 

Originally from Ukraine but fighting out of Los Angeles, Redkach (20-4-1, 16 KOs) was in one of the most exciting short fights of 2017 when he engaged in a back-and-forth bout against John Molina Jr. that contained the drama of most 12 round fights condensed into just four. Redkach was able to drop Molina early before succumbing to the veteran and the 32-year-old will look to bounce back against the Los Angeles-native Jones (14-8, 8 KOs), who’s last four wins have all come by stoppage.

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sportswww.premierboxingchampions.comand www.staplescenter.comfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @LeoSantaCruz2, @AbnerMares, @Ringstar, @TGBPromotions@STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSportswww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

SHOWTIME Sports® Releases Charlo Twins Sizzle Reel Set To Hit Track From Hip-Hop Artist Gizzle

 

“Get Loud For Me” Video Debuts In Advance Of Jermell’s June 9 Title Defense Against Austin Trout Live On SHOWTIME® From STAPLES Center

 

WATCH, SHARE & EMBED: https://s.sho.com/2L1vthh

 

Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

WHAT: SHOWTIME Sports released a sizzle video featuring boxing superstar twins Jermell and Jermall Charlo set to the hit track “Get Loud For Me” from hip-hop artist Gizzle.  VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2L1vthh

 

 

 

The highlight reel compiles must-see moments from the identical twins who have knocked out nine of their last 10 opponents since initially becoming world champions.  The 28-year-old Houston natives now sport a combined record of 57 wins, zero losses and 36 knockouts. 

 

 

 

Jermell (30-0, 15 KOs) makes the third defense of his WBC Super Welterweight World Championship against former titlist Austin Trout next Saturday, June 9 live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT.  

 

 

 

Jermall (27-0, 21 KOs) is a former 154-pound champion who relinquished his title to pursue the world’s best 160-pound fighters.  Jermall picked up the Interim WBC Middleweight Title April 21 on SHOWTIME and is the WBC’s mandatory challenger to Gennady “GGG” Golovkin.

 

 

 

“Get Loud For Me” was written and performed by Gizzle and is featured on the EP “30-0.”

 

 

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

Finale of 2018 Youth Continental Championships is Golden for Team USA

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO (May 31, 2018) – The final night of the 2018 Youth Continental Championships saw the American delegation collect seven gold medals and three silvers, making their final medal count 11 golds, three silvers and one bronze at the week-long tournament that took place at the Hotel Elegante in Colorado Springs, Colo.

 

 

 

Two highlights of the championships included light heavyweight Alexis Espino (Las Vegas, Nev.) and heavyweight David Stevens (Reading, Pa.) winning their second international title of 2018 by first-round knockouts. Espino took the gold over Puerto Rico’s Jancarmelo Nieves, while Stevens collected the title with his knockout against Andrews Salgado of Chile.

 

 

 

 

The final two females to box, bantamweight Heaven Garcia (El Monte, Calif.) and lightweight Isamary Aquino (San Antonio, Texas), defeated Emilia Dermott of Canada and Jennifer Yazmin Carrillo of Mexico, respectfully, to add two gold medals to the four the women’s team won on Thursday.

 

 

 

 

The final three gold medals were picked up by lightweight Harley Mederos (New York, N.Y.), light welterweight Otha Jones III (Toledo, Ohio) and super heavyweight Drake Banks (Homosassa, Fla.). The trio defeated their opponents by unanimous decisions to give Team USA the top team of the tournament.

 

 

 

 

This week’s tournament brought 14 different countries to Olympic City USA looking to qualify to the Youth Olympic Games and Youth World Championships, both taking place later this year. Team USA was led by Junior and Youth National Team Head Coach Augie Sanchez (Las Vegas, Nev.), with Timothy Back (Cincinnati, Ohio), Nora Lopez (Richmond, Texas), Eliza Olson (Redwood City, Calif.) and Chadrick Wigle (Colorado Springs, Colo.) served as assistant coaches throughout the week.

 

 

 

 

Click here for complete results. https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Boxing/Youth-Continental-Championships

 

 

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

 

CLARESSA SHIELDS TRAINING CAMP NOTES

http://files.constantcontact.com/78d73a48001/ca3c9c36-075a-41d2-b27e-1038115839e0.jpg

 

 

TWO-TIME OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST CLARESSA SHIELDS PREPARES TO FACE FELLOW UNIFIED CHAMPION HANNA GABRIELS FRIDAY, JUNE 22 ON SHOWTIME

 

Flint Native Shields Attempting to Become Two-Division Champion On SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION

 

Tickets on Sale for Event at Ticketmaster and Masonic Temple in Detroit

 

Click HERE for photos; Credit Salita Promotions/Terrell Groggins

 

Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields is deep in preparation for her attempt to become a two-division world champion when she faces fellow unified champion Hanna Gabriels at Masonic Temple in Detroit on Friday, June 22.

 

 

 

Shields, a unified champion at 168 pounds, and Gabriels, a unified titlist at 154 pounds, will meet for the vacant IBF and WBA Middleweight World Championships on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME.

 

 

 

A native of Flint, Mich., Shields (5-0, 2 KOs) was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic Gold Medals. The 23-year-old turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight. Shields now begins her first camp with renowned trainer John David Jackson as she attempts to become a two-division champion.

 

 

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION will also feature extensive highlights of unified women’s middleweight champion Christina Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) as she defends her WBC & WBO titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs).  If both Shields and Hammer are victorious in their 160-pound bouts on June 22, they will meet in a fall blockbuster on SHOWTIME to determine the undisputed women’s middleweight world champion.

 

 

 

How has training camp been so far?

“Training camp has been great. It’s been fun and I’ve been working my butt off. I can’t wait to step in the ring with another champion and make history by winning the world title in my second weight division!”

 

What can fans expect from you on June 22?

“The fans can expect for me to fight like I’m Okoye from Wakanda! I’ve never been more motivated, more ready, and more able to take on the challenges and achieve my goals. I want to fight the best, and I want to be the best ever. I will give everything onJune 22 against Hanna Gabriels to win a world title in my second weight division, then I want Christina Hammer, so we can unify all the middleweight belts, and then my sights will be on getting to the 154-pound world title.”

 

 

 

What are some of your future goals in boxing?  

“I want to lift women’s boxing for all the women past, present and future. I want equality for women and men in boxing. I want to be recognized as one of the pound-for-pound best in the sport among both men and women, no gender labels. And I want to be known as the best female boxer ever. I’m ready. Come to Detroit on June 22 and see me live, watch me on SHOWTIME, and join the team as we make history!”

 

 

What have you learned training with John David Jackson?
“Coach John is very knowledgeable, he’s been working with me on my patience. He admires the beast inside of me, but just wants me to control it more and be smart. He’s been to the biggest battles with some great world champions, and I’m glad to have his experience and knowledge on my team.”

 

What is your typical day like in camp?
“A typical day in camp can go according to either of two plans. Plan 1 is I wake up at 9 am, make myself a small breakfast (2 boiled eggs, 2 pieces of turkey bacon and some steamed asparagus) or a fruit smoothie. At 11 am I’m at the gym training. By1:30 pm, I’m at the gym. My workout usually consists of bag drills, mitt work, shadow boxing, jumping rope, speed bag and ring drills. Then I either swim or run at 6 pm the same day. On the days I do Plan 2, I still wake at 9 am and have my breakfast and then 11 am-1:30 pm, I’m in the gym. But right after that, I do strength and conditioning, which consists of box jumps, dumb bell squats, some drills with weights for my upper body, or a four-mile run.”

 

Have you made any changes to your training and nutrition for your first fight at middleweight?
“Right after my fight with Tori Nelson, I knew I would be fighting next at middleweight, so I stayed in the gym three times a week until Mark (Taffet) told me we secured June 22 on SHOWTIME against Hanna Gabriels. But to properly make middleweight, I had to learn about my body some more. Losing weight is more about a routine than it is about eating less food. The good thing for me is that I like healthy food – my body and mind feel best when I eat that way. The only difference in camp is I eat smaller portions of the food I like and drink a lot more water. This camp I’ve been heavy on fish, all kinds of fish from cod, salmon, Atlantic salmon — with sides of asparagus, sweet potatoes, rice or spinach. And body clock is important, so no eating after 7 pm. I’m feeling great and will be in the best shape of my life when I get in that ring on June 22.”

 

 

Who are your sparring partners?

“So far, I’ve sparred with Matt Korobov and Daniyar Yelluisar. I love to spar with men – I find that the strength and speed helps me get the most out of the sparring.”

 

What have you done differently in preparation for this fight?

“Well I always say this, but I don’t get ready to face my opponents – my trainer John David Jackson focuses more on the opponent than I do. I just get prepared to be the best version of me. I’ve seen film of Hannah and I’m not impressed – I know she’s a champion and I respect that, but I’ve never seen a woman who can stay in the ring with me. It’ll take two of her to even have a chance at beating me.”

Trio of Heavyweight Showdowns Highlight Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Action Sunday, June 10

 
Rugged Veteran Travis Kauffman Takes on Scott Alexander,
Former Title Challenger Gerald Washington Battles
Wes Nofire & 2012 U.S. Olympian Michael Hunter Meets Iago Kiladze
Live from Pioneer Event Center in Lancaster, Calif.
 
Tickets on Sale Now!

LANCASTER, CALIF. (May 31, 2018) – Rugged veteran heavyweight Travis Kauffman will take on Scott Alexander in a 10-round bout that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes action that features three heavyweight showdowns on Sunday, June 10 from Pioneer Event Center in Lancaster, California.

 

 

 

The telecast begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT and will see former world title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington take on once-beaten Wes Nofire in a 10-round attraction plus 2012 U.S. Olympian Michael Hunter challenging Iago Kiladze in a 10-round fight. Also featured on the card is sensational super welterweight prospect Joey Spencer (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round special attraction.

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit the Pioneer Event Center’s website: www.uavpec.com.

 

 

 

“Travis Kauffman doesn’t back down from anyone and there’s no doubt he’ll be looking to make a statement against Scott Alexander on Sunday, June 10,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “It’s an interesting time in the heavyweight division and all the winners on this card will figure into the picture in a prominent way in the future.”

 

 

 

Kauffman (31-2, 23 KOs) will look to boost his own contender credentials with a win after most recently dropping a close majority decision to Amir Mansour last March in Kauffman’s hometown of Reading, Pennsylvania. Kauffman had entered that bout with a 14 fight unbeaten streak, including dropping Chris Arreola in a fight that resulted in a no contest and a knockout of former title challenger Epifanio Mendoza.

 

 

 

“I am excited to get back in the ring,” said Kauffman. “I have not been in the ring in a year and a half and I can’t wait to go in there and show that I still have a lot left. I am not going in there to win by decision.  I am going in there looking to knock him out, because I am tired of leaving it up to the judges.”

 

 

 

The 29-year-old Alexander (14-2-2, 8 KOs) has put together two straight victories since losing to LaRon Mitchell by unanimous decision in 2016. Fighting out of Los Angeles, Alexander is noted for his fast hands, and scored a TKO victory over Pedro Julio Rodriguez in his last fight on March 3.

 

 

 

“I’ve been working hard preparing for a fight at the end of June so I jumped at this opportunity,” Alexander said. “I’m always ready to step into the ring and take on any and all challenges. I’m ready to make my mark. My time is now!”

 

 

 

A U.S. Navy veteran who also played tight end and defensive end at the University of Southern California, Washington (18-2-1, 12 KOs) will step into the ring looking to score a bounce back victory on June 10. Washington was stopped in his world title challenge last February against Deontay Wilder on FOX, although he was nearly even on the scorecards at the time, before losing a bout to unbeaten Jarrell Miller in July. Prior to those fights, Washington had been unbeaten in 19 pro fights with victories over a slew of veteran contenders.

 

 

 

A Cherokee-citizen born in Oklahoma and training out of Miami, Nofire (20-1, 16 KOs) most recently scored a second round stoppage of Stacy Frazier last September. The 32-year-old was riding a four-fight knockout streak that includes stoppages of Yasmany Consuegra and Ty Cobb before losing his first pro fight to Joey Abell in 2016 on FS1 and FOX Deportes.

 

 

 

After representing the U.S. at the 2012 Olympic games, Hunter (13-1, 8 KOs) turned pro and began rising up the cruiserweight rankings until losing his first world title fight to unified champion Oleksandr Usyk last April. The 29-year-old returned to action this April with a decision victory and will set his sights on a world title shot at heavyweight.

 

 

 

Kiladze (26-2, 18 KOs) was riding a six-bout winning streak into his January matchup with unbeaten Adam Kownacki that ended with Kiladze losing in six rounds. Representing the country of Georgia and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Kiladze will be in his fifth fight as a full time heavyweight on June 10.

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage andwww.foxdeportes.com

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampionsPBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Promoting more challenging than fighting for Miguel Cotto

       
La Batalla
TITO ACOSTA vs. CARLOS BUITRAGO
WBO World Light Flyweight Championship

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2018
Coliseo de Puerto Rico * Hato Rey, Puerto Rico

LIVE ON PPV – 9
pm ET / 6 pm PT

 
La Batalla, June 16
Live on PPV from Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (May 31, 2018) – Future Hall of Fame boxer Miguel Cotto believes that, for him, promoting is even more challenging than fighting.

 

 

 

The living legend retired last December with an incredible 41-6 (33 KOs) pro record, in which he became the only Puerto Rican to capture world titles in four different weights classes, light welterweight through middleweight.

 

 

 

Cotto was 20-6 (16 KOs) in world title fights, 16-6 (12 KOs) versus present or past world champions during his illustrious 17-year pro career, including victories against Cesar BazanCarlos Maussa,Lovemore N’douRandall Bailey,DeMarcus CorleyRicardo Torres,Paulie MalignaggiCarlos Quintana,Zab JudahShane MosleyJoshua ClotteyYuri ForemanRicardo MayorgaAntonio MargaritoSergio Martinez and Daniel Geale.

 

 

 

“We have been in the promoting business for more than 13 years, combining both roles (fighter and promoter),” Cotto said. “Now, we are able to give more attention to our fighters in terms of training.

 

 

 

“Promoting is more complex because there are challenges regarding every facet of an event. As a fighter, you concentrate solely on the fight, not all the details involved in promoting a successful event.”

 

 

 

Cotto Promotions is presenting La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago, along with H2 Entertainment, in association with DIRECTV Puerto Rico, June 16th on pay-per-view, live from the Coliseo de Puerto Rico Center in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico.

 

 

 

Integrated Sports Media will distribute the La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago card in the United States on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and live-streamed worldwide (excluding Puerto Rico) on the FITE.TV app and website (www.fite.tv), starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, for a suggested retail price of only $34.95.

 

 

 

World Boxing Organization Light Flyweight World Champion Tito Acosta 17-1, 17 KOs) will make his first title defense against four-time world title challenger Carlos “Chocorroncito” Buitrago (30-3-1, 17 KOs), of Nicaragua, in the 12-round main event.

 

 

 

“This pay-per-view card is a very important opportunity for is to showcase a great event,” Cotto added, “as well as a perfect scenario for Acosta to show the world who he is as world champion.

 

 

 

“It is a pleasure for me to give back to boxing what boxing gave me. Seeing our brand grow and fighter development let us know that we are doing things the right way. Our goal is to continue developing the best talent in Puerto Rico and building their brands and legacies.”

 

 

 

The 27-year-old Acosta is on a mission to become a Puerto Rican boxing icon like Cotto, Tito TrinidadWilfredo GomezHector CamachoWilfredo Benitez and so many other greats from this fertile island.

 

 

 

Acosta’s success brings back fond memories for Cotto to when he was in a similar situation as a young world champion. “He does bring back memories for me and he proves that hard work pays off,” Cotto concluded. “Tito is living the dream every boxer has when they choose to box as a living. Now is the most challenging chapter for him to expand his reign and build his legacy.”

 

 

 

Additional June 16th PPV fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

 

 

INFORMATION:

 

www.promocionesmiguelcottowww.integratedsportsnet.comwww.directvpr.comwww.fite.tv

 

Twitter: @CottoPromotions, @Directvpr, @IntegratedPPV, @FiteTV

USA Boxing declares June “Alumni Association Membership Drive Month”

PAST & PRESENT of USA Boxing: (L-R) 1972 Olympic bronze medalist Jesse Valdez, 2004 U.S. Nationals champion Austin Trout, future Olympic hopeful Sharaha-Taina Moreu, 2-time world (pro) champion Danny Romero, and 1984 Olympic silver medalist Virgil Hill.

 

 

 

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO (May 31, 2018) – USA Boxing has declared June as its “Alumni Association Membership Drive Month”.

 

 

 

“I have been involved in boxing my entire life,” USA Boxing president John Brown said. “I’m a strong believer in USA Boxing and The Grass Roots Program; that truly makes up everything that IS boxing in America. The USA Boxing Alumni Association was started to keep this FAMILY together. I’m hoping that each of our current members will reach out to ONE other potential new member. I look forward to a busy month of June. ”

 

 

 

Created to champion lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — The Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.

 

 

 

Chris Cugliari and John Scully will oversee two USA Boxing Alumni Association tables at the International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, June 7- 10 Canastota, New York, during the its golf tournament and Memorabilia Show.

 

 

 

USA Boxing product Winky Wright (51-6-1, 25 KOs), a two-time junior middleweight world champion, is one of only three boxers being inducted into the IBHOF Class of 2018.

 

 

 

Multiple world champion as a pro and 1984 Olympic silver medalist, Virgil “Quicksilver” Hill, three-time Fight of the Year participant “Irish” Micky Ward, world champions Riddick BoweJunior Jones and other “Alumni Association” members are expected to make supportive appearances.

 

 

 

 

 

“USA Boxing Alumni Association has enabled countless alumni to congregate at various events throughout the country since its inception last November,” added Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. “By expanding our membership through a strong June campaign, we will build on our successful infancy and strengthen our ability to support the Alumni Association’s mission statement.  We are very thankful for the support provided by our members and look forward to even better times to come.”

 

 

 

The Alumni Association drive will continue June 24-30 in Charleston, West Virginia during the 2018 Junior Olympics, Prep Nationals and Youth Open.

 

 

 

The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events host by the Alumni Association.

 

 

 

To join the Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing,.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing