All posts by FNU47

boxing

Velasco Looking Forward to War with Prograis

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Upcoming world super-lightweight challenger Juan Jose “El Pitbull” Velasco says he’s happy to be facing a fighter being labeled a potential new star in boxing on Saturday, July 14.

 

 

 

Velasco (20-0, 12 KOs), from Buenos Aires, Argentina, will challenge interim WBC World Super Lightweight Champion Regis Prograis at the Lakefront Arena in Prograis’ birthplace of New Orleans, Louisiana.

 

 

 

The southpaw Prograis became champion last March with a head-turning TKO 2 over capable former champion Julius Indongo.

 

 

 

“I am glad he is being called a new star,” said Velasco. “I only want to fight the best, so I can become the best myself. He’s a very good fighter and I know it will be a true war.”

 

 

 

31-year-old Velasco says he’s in great shape, training in Miami, and looks forward to making his dream of a world title come true.

 

 

 

How is training going?

Training is going fantastic! I am in Miami at Caicedo Sports Training Camp, working with Herman Caicedo. Herman is relentless. As soon as he picked me up, traveling from Argentina to Miami. He took me straight to the track and ran drills for an hour.

 

 

 

Talk to me about the opportunity to fight for world championship?

It’s a dream come true. My whole pro career it has been my dream. I found out I was fighting for the championship immediately after my last fight. My promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz, informed me of the opportunity and told me I would be training in Miami with Herman.

 

 

 

You haven’t left your home country to fight much, are you going to be your usual self fighting basically in his hometown in the US?

No, I haven’t been out much and it’s an honor to be fighting in the USA. I don’t know any other way than to be myself in a fight. Herman is improving on my skills and adding some details to it. Herman and I have gelled immediately. I am sure, due to his experience with champions, that he knows how to adapt to individuals. Fighting in his hometown is on him. I have zero pressure and can only gain fans fighting there.

 

 

 

Why will you win this fight?

I will win this fight because I am hungry to be a champion. I’m hungry to be where he is at and hungry to better my family.

 

 

 

Describe yourself as a fighter for American fans who haven’t seen you yet.

I am a boxer puncher who can adapt to what is in front of me. Are you doing anything different in training for this fight? Answer: yes, the major difference is training with Herman Caicedo in Miami. He has had great success with lots of fighters and one of the few coaches to develop a fighter into a champion from pro debuts. He is a teacher. I look forward to much success with him.

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

CRESPO OUT, MURPHY IN AGAINST ARNOLD IN NEF TITLE FIGHT

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Portland, Maine (May 31, 2018) – Earlier this week, New England Fights (NEF) officials were informed that Mike Crespo had been injured during his fight camp and would be unable to compete at “NEF 34: Home of the Brave” on June 16 in Portland.  Crespo had originally been scheduled to face Kam Arnold (3-0) for the vacant NEF MMA Amateur Bantamweight Championship.  Killian Murphy (1-0) has stepped up to replace Crespo and take on Arnold at Aura for the 135-pound title in a scheduled five-round affair.

 

 

 

Murphy made his debut at “NEF 33” last month in Portland with an impressive victory over Krishna Scott (0-1) via first-round technical knockout.  He is no stranger to the winner’s circle.  Murphy is a former Maine state wrestling champion, having captured a class-A title for Marshwood High School in Elliott in 2015.  Today, he trains with Nostos MMA in Somersworth, New Hampshire under the guidance of UFC signee, and former NEF Professional Lightweight Champion, Devin Powell (8-3).  Murphy was originally scheduled to compete against Gabriel Diaz of Florida at “NEF 34,” but Diaz pulled out of that fight earlier this month.

 

 

 

“It’s an exciting turn of events to end up fighting for the 135-pound belt,” said Murphy. “The goal when I started this journey was to win that belt – and I am thankful for this opportunity. I want to thank NEF, my coaches, my teammates and supporters. June 16th, I’m taking that belt home to Nostos.”

 

 

 

Perhaps no other member of the NEF roster has had the run in the last twelve months that Kam Arnold has had.  He has cut through three opponents in the first round like a hot knife through butter including an eleven-second knockout of veteran David Thompson last month at “NEF 33.”  Arnold is a member of Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu of Lewiston, Maine.

 

 

 

“First off, I just want to say ‘thank you’ to Killian for accepting this fight, and also to Matt Peterson for finding me another opponent,” said Arnold when reached for comment. “Killian’s an up-and-coming, exciting fighter – and I’m excited to clash with him. I know he’s going to come ready and he’s going to be looking to shake up this division and make a statement. I’m going to continue to work hard, make an adjustment to the strategy and go balls-to-the-wall from there. This will be a great fight – and I will be NEF’s next 135-pound champ.”

 

 

 

“Nothing excites me more than when an athlete steps up on short notice and seizes an opportunity to grab glory – and that’s what Killian Murphy has done by agreeing to take this bout against an undefeated animal like Kam Arnold,” declared NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “Kam has looked unstoppable since he debuted less than a year ago – and now we get to see him test himself against a decorated wrestler for a chance at NEF gold. As if this card wasn’t already summer fireworks – now we get to see two undefeated studs try to knock each other off over the course of a five-round championship fight. It doesn’t get any better than this!”

 

 

 

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 34: Home of the Brave,” will take place at Aura in Portland, Maine on Saturday, June 16, 2018.  Tickets are on-sale now online at www.AuraMaine.com.

 

 

 

About New England Fights

 

 

 

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

boxing

Dan Pasciolla looking to defend and win New Jersey State Heavyweight title this Friday against Quian Davis

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Atlantic City, NJ (May 31, 2018) – Heavyweight Dan Pasciolla (9-3-3) won the New Jersey State Heavyweight title when he won a six-round unanimous decision over former world champion Imamu Mayfield on March 19, 2016.

 

 

 

The 32 year-old native of Brick, New Jersey signed on to fight Quian Davis (4-0-2, 2 KOs) this Friday night at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, and was informed that the fight would be for the vacant title.

 

 

 

That was news to Pasciolla and his manager Rich Masini, as the pair believed that Pasciolla was still the champion.

 

 

 

“I have been waiting for a fight.  I was in camp in Poland, and I am in better shape.  My goal is to get in the ring, and show a different Dan Pasciolla,” said the 5-year veteran.

 

 

 

When asked about Davis, Pasciolla is ready for his undefeated opponent.

 

 

 

“I know he did not have much of an amateur career.  He is just another guy that I will be getting into the ring with.  Experience plays a factor, and I bring much more than thaton Friday.  I have been working hard, and things are coming together,”

 

 

 

Pasciolla is not letting the fact the he is already fighting for a belt that he already owns get in the way of his preparation.

 

 

 

“I am not sure why there is a new title since I already am the champion, but I will walk out with 2 belts on Friday.  It is very important because it represents my state, so it is a big deal to me.  I do not do a lot of talking. I will do my talking between the ropes.”

 

 

 

“This is a funny and crazy business at times,” said Pasciolla’s manager , Rich Masini.  “Dan beat Mayfield for the state title,  It is even recognized on Boxrec.com, but somehow, I guess that doesn’t count anymore, but Dan will enter the ring with that belt, and apparently now we are fighting for the same title but a different belt.  That aside, Dan will be fighting a tough opponent.  Dan is used to being the underdog, but he relishes that role.  Dan has worked very hard, and he has transformed his body and is in great shape.”

 

 

 

“I am sure Davis has trained hard.  I just think it is very ironic that the same man is fighting for another belt of the same title that he already owns.  I have been in boxing for 30 years, so nothing ever surprises me. I am glad that Rising Star Promotions is giving us another opportunity.  The reason that I manage fighters is that there are good men out there, and Dan is a great man, who will be ready for his opponent on Friday night.”

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Leo Santa Cruz vs. Abner Mares 2 Saturday, June 9 Live on SHOWTIME from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in an Event Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

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“Crosstown Battles”
A Los Angeles Boxing History Lesson
 
 
“Los Angeles, one of the world’s greatest boxing cities, has probably developed more sensational box-office attractions than any other city.”
 
– Hap Navarro, Hollywood Legion Stadium matchmaker,
 1948-1955

 

LOS ANGELES (May 30, 2018) – The first Leo Santa Cruz vs. Abner Mares clash, a candidate for “Fight of the Year” in 2015, was a hard fought crosstown Los Angeles battle for supremacy in the featherweight division won by Santa Cruz via a 12-round majority decision at STAPLES Center on August 29.

 

 

 

This Southern California natural hometown bash produced a strong live gate to go along with a peak of 1.641 million viewers on ESPN, their strongest numbers since 1998. The fierce, bloody war left Mares unfulfilled until their long-awaited rematch could be finally realized three years later. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast on Saturday, June 9 is approaching as we await the exciting, high-voltage return of Santa Cruz vs. Mares.

 

 

 

Historically, Los Angeles has been the hotspot for slugfests between legendary local Mexican-American fighters. Known for their big hearts in the ring, Mexican-American boxers have electrified fans with their explosiveness and courage. When you mix in the fact that Southland boxing fans are loyal to the end, you have the ingredients for the much anticipated barnburner between Los Angeles-based rivals, Santa Cruz vs. Mares.

 

 

 

The rematch is bound to instill and bolster Mexican national pride in the hearts of the growing Southland Latino boxing community. STAPLES Center will surely be divided equally between those rooting for either Santa Cruz or Mares. With this fight just over a week away, we look back to similar exciting bouts between popular Los Angeles fighters.

 

 

 

A strong bitterness carried over from many years earlier was in full force during the pre-fight build up between former sparring partners and former world champions Mando Ramos and Raul Rojas. These Harbor-area fighters openly played mind-games with each other and tossed hateful personal insults back-and-forth in order to gain a psychological edge. In this crucial crossroads fight for both, Ramos, of Long Beach, was led to believe that San Pedro’s Rojas was not in shape. Ramos proceeded to take it easy and coasted during training camp. When word got out that Rojas was in top-form, it occurred to Ramos that he’d been had. Still, Ramos mustered enough salvo to knockout Rojas in six rounds on December 10, 1970 at the Olympic Auditorium.

 

 

 

Ramos helped write another chapter of boxing history in the area as the long-awaited grudge match between two popular Chicano icons, Ramos and Ruben Navarro, also pitted the neighborhoods of Harbor vs. Maravilla against each other. The two fighters, who had been mouthing off to one another for three years, finally agreed to meet in the ring to claim exclusive bragging rights for the title of “best lightweight in town.” Former world lightweight champion Ramos pulled off a close 10-round unanimous decision over top-contender Navarro, “The Maravilla Kid” of East L.A., at the Olympic Auditorium on September 30, 1971.

 

 

 

In one of the most anticipated dream matches in Los Angeles boxing history, “Schoolboy” Bobby Chacon, of Sylmar, knocked out Danny “Little Red” Lopez, of Alhambra, in the ninth round to win the mythical “City Featherweight Championship.” Chacon was in his wheelhouse all night long, rocking Lopez repeatedly with his right hand throughout the fight. This clash of local rising stars in the featherweight division, promoted by Aileen Eaton and the Olympic Boxing Club, occurred in front of a sold-out crowd of 16,027 at the Los Angeles Sports Arena on May 24, 1974. The fight produced so much interest that another 2,671 fans watched on closed-circuit TV at the Olympic Auditorium, located on the corner of 18th & Grand in downtown Los Angeles. Steve Springer of the Los Angeles Times wrote in 1995 about the fight as a measuring stick for boxing fan passion in the area, saying “you would have to go back to Chacon-Lopez to find such excitement for a pair of Los Angeles fighters.”

 

 

 

It was the first time in boxing history that two college graduates fought for the world title when WBC welterweight champion Carlos Palomino, of Westminster, successfully defended his title against Armando Muniz, of Montebello, by 15th-round TKO at the Olympic Auditorium on January 21, 1977. Many local boxing writers called this knockdown, drag-out war, the “Fight of the Year”, and in the rematch held May 27, 1978 at the same venue, Palomino once again stopped Muniz, this time by 15-round unanimous decision.

 

 

 

Santa Cruz and Mares grew up together on the same Southern California boxing scene. Both appeared on many of the same boxing cards, and Santa Cruz even picked up an IBF bantamweight belt vacated by Mares. Now, for these two Mexican warriors with almost identical boxing statistics, the road to greatness leads them both once more to STAPLES Center for surely another sensational ring-war.

 

 

 

Come fight night on June 9, 2018, the boxing world will be treated to another classic Los Angeles slugfest between two certified Mexican warriors. This bout truly promises to be the next chapter written in the long history of exciting Los Angeles crosstown battles. Nearly three years in the making, anticipation will be high and a screaming audience again on their feet, as they witness Mares’ quest for redemption in his rematch with Santa Cruz. As popular and well-liked as these two hometown heroes are in the Southland boxing community; there will be only one fighter who will walk out of STAPLES Center with his hands raised tall. May the best man win.

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also feature 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.

 

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Story written by Gene Aguilera, author of Latino Boxing in Southern California (2018) and Mexican American Boxing in Los Angeles (2014), Arcadia Publishing. Aguilera has been inducted into the WBC Legends of Boxing Museum, National Boxing Hall of Fame, and his 2014 release was chosen as “Book of the Year” by the West Coast Boxing Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

 

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

boxing, Paramount Network, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Errol Spence Jr. Dallas Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Welterweight World Champion Makes Homecoming Defense Against Undefeated Challenger Carlos Ocampo
Saturday, June 16 Live on SHOWTIME® from Ford Center at
Dallas Cowboys Headquarters at The Star
 
Click HERE for Photos from Stacey Verbeek

DALLAS (May 30, 2018) – Unbeaten welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr. hosted a media workout at his gym in Dallas Tuesday as he prepares for his homecoming title defense at Dallas Cowboys Headquarters against undefeated challenger Carlos Ocampo Saturday, June 16 live on SHOWTIME from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

The IBF titleholder spoked to media at the R&R Boxing Club along with trainer Derrick James, as the two prepare for Spence’s second title defense after winning the title from then unbeaten champion Kell Brook last May.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.SeatGeek.com.

 

 

 

Here is what Spence and James had to say Tuesday:

 

 

 

ERROL SPENCE JR.

 

 

 

“It feels good to be fighting back at home in Dallas. This is where I started and where my core fan base is. It’s great to fight in front of my people and even better that I can do it as a world champion now.

 

 

 

“I wanted to make my first title defense in Dallas, but everything happens for a reason and now I have this great opportunity to fight at the Dallas Cowboys’ facility. It’s an incredible venue that has everything you would want. It’s going to be a great atmosphere on June 16.

 

 

 

“We’re working hard on our game plan and sharpening our skills in camp to make sure I’m the best version of myself when I step into the ring against Ocampo.

 

 

 

“Timing is key in boxing. It’s more important than speed and it’s something I really focus on when I’m training. It’s timing and accuracy. You can be fast but if you don’t land, it doesn’t mean anything.

 

 

 

“I’m a versatile fighter who is able to switch it up. I can box from the outside but also go on the inside. These are things that we’re always working on in the gym. Our opponent may bring something different than we expected into the ring, so we work on having a plan for everything.

 

 

 

“It’s great to have another world champion like Jermell Charlo in camp with me. Iron sharpens iron and we just work hard every day so that we can push each other to the next level. All of that helps me become victorious.

 

 

 

“I wouldn’t say I have one skill that sticks out the most in my arsenal. I’m a balanced boxer who can do everything. I can jab, throw a combo and show strong defense. I balance all of the attributes you need in the ring and that’s what makes me a great boxer.

 

 

 

“I’ve been putting this division on notice for a while. June 16 is another day that we’re going to give another one-sided performance and dominate. I’ve had the welterweight division on notice since my first fight. They know I’m here.

 

 

 

“Whoever wins the fight between Danny Garcia and Shawn Porter for the WBC title will have to fight me. I’m ready to unify. I’m ready to take the belt from either one of those guys.”

 

 

 

DERRICK JAMES, Spence’s Trainer

 

 

 

“Errol is an incredibly hard worker in the gym and he always has been. We’re just making sure he’s on task and able to be peaking on June 16. I have no worries that he’s going to be distracted by fighting at home.

 

 

 

“There can definitely be a lot of distractions at home, but Errol is determined and I know he has the mentality that will allow him to put on his best performance. We’ve been preparing for anything Ocampo could possibly bring to the ring.

 

 

 

 

“I’m excited that my two daughters will be able to come to the fight. This night is all about our community and giving everyone here something to cheer about. The city has indicated that they’re really coming out to support Errol and he’s going to reward them.

 

 

 

“If we keep putting in the work like we have been, everything is going to come naturally on fight night. We’ve taken a look at what Ocampo likes to do and we’ll be ready. At the end of the day, I think Errol is going to put on a great performance for this city.”

 

 

 

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About The Star

The Star is the 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and practice facility in Frisco, Texas. Developed as a first-of-its-kind partnership between the City of Frisco and Frisco ISD, The Star features Ford Center, a 12,000-seat stadium that hosts Frisco ISD football games and other events; Cowboys Fit, a 60,000 square-foot gym developed in partnership with leading fitness developer, Mark Mastrov; Cowboys Club, a members-only club where the country club meets the NFL; The Omni Frisco Hotel, a 16-floor, 300-room luxury hotel; Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research at The Star, a 300,000 square-foot center of excellence for sports medicine set to open in 2018; as well as a variety of shopping, dining and nightlife options as part of the Entertainment District. For more information on The Star, visit www.TheStarInFrisco.com.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.comand www.thestarinfrisco.com. Follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @ErrolSpenceJr, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @TheStarinFrisco and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.Facebook.com/thestarfrisco. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

  IN THE RAGE INTERVIEW CHRIS “The Greek Assassin” KELADES

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Chris Kaledes (R) is shooting for his second straight M-1 victory this Friday

CHELYABINSK, Russia (May 30, 2018) – Greece-born flyweight Chris “The Greek Kelades” Kelades (12-3-0, M-1: 1-0-0), fighting out of Dartmouth, Canada, takes on Ukrainian fighter Alexander Pletenko (13-4-0, M;1: 0-0-0) this Friday night on the M-1 Challenge 93 main card, in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

 

 

 

Kelades made his successful M-1 Global debut last November at M-1 Challenge 86, when he defeated Oleg Lichkovakha by way of a third-round submission (Kimura).

 

 

 

It’s been more than a half- year since your M-1 Global debut. Why did you take such a long break?

 

 

 

CK: “It’s hard to believe it’s been that long. I was supposed to fight back in March, but I had problems getting my travel visa secured, so I was rebooked to fight in April but, unfortunately, the event was canceled. So, I’ve been ready to fight, but circumstances have changed the dates. I’m excited for this fight and looking forward to fighting in Chelyabinsk. Two times my fights have been canceled and it was extremely frustrating, but it gave me more time to work on my game and learn new techniques.”

 

 

 

In your M-1 Global debut, you have been very cautious during the first two rounds, but in the third round you got a submission. Is it your real fighting style or did you just wanted to win the debut fight without taking risks?

 

 

 

CK: Every fight is different. Sometimes in a new environment it takes longer to feel the fight start and you have to read the opponent before you react too aggressively.”

 

 

 

What can you say about your next opponent, Alexander Pletenko? You have similar records. Does it mean you have similar fighting styles?

 

 

 

CK: “I’ve seen some of his fights and I don’t think we have similar styles. I’ve been fighting the best guys in the world and at a certain level it’s more difficult to finish fights.”

 

 

 

Before joining M-1 Global you had never fought anywhere except North America. What does it feel like to fight half a world away from your home?

 

 

 

CH: “I really enjoyed myself the last time in my debut with M-1 Global. The travel is a little bit of a hassle with the distance, but I really enjoy fighting internationally and here in Russia. I like fighting away because I enjoy having to prove myself to other fighters and the fans. It motivates me!”

 

 

 

Russian star Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko (56-10-1, 1 NC, M-1: 6-0-0) headlines M-1 Challenge 93 against Brazilian power-puncher Bruno Silva (17-6-0, M-1: 0-0-0).

 

 

 

Undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov (10-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0) defends his title for the first time against American favorite Joe “Diesel” Riggs (47-17-1, M-1: 2-0-1) in the M-1 Challenge 93 co-featured event.

 

 

 

M-1 Challenge 93 will be live-streamed from Russia in high definition on www.M1Global.TV. Viewers will be able to watch the preliminary fights and main card by logging on to register atwww.M1Global.TV. Fans may watch all the action on their computers, as well as on Android and Apple smart phones and tablets. M-1 Challenge 93 will also be available onwww.FITE.TV(preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card)

 

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

 

 

 

www.M1Global.tv

www.mixfight.ru

www.wmmaa.org

 

 

 

Twitter & Instagram:

 

 

@M1GlobalNews

@VFinkelchtein

@M1Global

 

 

 

Facebook:

 

 

 

www.facebook.com/M-1-GlobalNews

 

 

 

Upcoming M-1 Challenge Events:

June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

CROSSROADS BATTLE OF PROSPECTS ASLAMBEK IDIGOV VS. JAMES BALLARD ADDED TO UNDERCARD OF CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. HANNA GABRIELS IBF & WBA WOMEN’S MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

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SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Live At 10 p.m. ET/PT
From Masonic Temple in Detroit, Mich.; Tickets On Sale Now

The Salita Promotions professional boxing event on Friday, June 22, at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, is heating up even more with the announcement of an intriguing match-up of promising light heavyweight prospects with local ties.

 

 

 

In a fight with explosive action written all over it, Detroit’s own James “The Equalizer” Ballard (10-1, 3 KOs) will face undefeated Aslambek Idigov (12-0, 5 KOs), from Detroit via Grozny, Russia, over 10 exciting rounds.

 

 

 

Fighting mostly in his home city, the 28-year-old Ballard has become a fan favorite for his fearlessly aggressive style. Ballard says he refuses to lose on his home turf of Detroit.

 

 

 

“Expect a war,” said Ballard. “I will go out there and give the fans what they want by going toe-to-toe. I am coming for Idigov’s O. I’m not going to be out-boxed in my hometown. It’s a respect thing. It’s going to be a long night for him. We are training hard and ready to go hard every round if it takes that long. June 22 can’t get here soon enough. I’m more than ready to send Russia back home.”

 

 

 

A compact puncher with pinpoint accuracy, Idigov has fan favorite written all over his muscular frame. Since he began training in Detroit’s famed Kronk Gym, Idigov says he’s learning to fight the American way.

 

 

 

“Training at the Kronk Boxing Gym in Detroit has been a great experience for me and I learn a lot and get better every day. I love their philosophy that the best win is a knockout!

James Ballard is a very good fighter. I have no problem fighting him and winning in his hometown, which is becoming my second home as well. Let’s get it on!”

 

 

 

“This is a classic, crossroads fight between two talented and hungry prospects,” said event promoter Dmitriy Salita. “This is a ‘pick em’ type of match that will bring excitement to fans in the championship City of Detroit!”

 

 

 

The skillful pair will duel as part of the untelevised undercard of the blockbuster “It’s Our Time to Shine” event featuring two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and current Unified Women’s Super Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields attempting to become a two-division world champion against unified 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Women’s Middleweight World Championships.

 

 

 

The main event will be televised live on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT) and will also feature highlights of Unified Women’s Middleweight Champion Christina Hammer as she defends her WBC & WBO Titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35.

boxing

Anthony “Juice” Young signs with Real Deal Entertainment

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Young to take on Enver Halili this Saturday night at Boardwalk Hall

Atlantic City, NJ (May 29, 2018) – Boxing manager Rich Masini announced that welterweight Anthony “Juice” Young has signed a promotional contract with Real Deal Entertainment.

 

 

 

Young (18-2, 6 KOs) of Atlantic City will make his debut under the Real Deal Entertainment banner when he takes on this Saturday night when he takes on Enver Halili (10-1, 3 KOs) in a scheduled eight-round bout at Boardwalk Hall in his hometown of Atlantic City.

 

 

 

“I am happy to join Real Deal Boxing.  They are an up-and-coming promotion,” said Young.

 

 

 

In Halili, Young will be fighting the brother of a former opponent who defeated Young for one of his two defeats.

 

 

 

“I expect a tough fight.  I saw his fight against Raymond Serrano, and I think he was winning until he got disqualified.  I expect to get the victory.  At the end of the day, he is not his brother Skender.  When his brother beat me, it was just a little setback.”

 

 

 

The Atlantic City native is honored and motivated to be performing on Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame weekend.

 

 

“It is special to fight at Boardwalk Hall.  I am now at the point of my career, that I am set on bigger fights, and it is an honor to fight on Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame weekend.  It motivates me as I want to be be inducted when my career is over.”

 

 

Masini, who has managed Young for the last six-years, is excited at the new partnership that he has for his fighter.

 

 

 

“I have seen “Juice” Improve greatly over his last seven fights.  It is Anthony’s commitment and his team led by trainer Raul “Chino” Rivas that have done a great job with his preparation,” said Masini.  “In addition, Anthony’s dad, Teany has helped me in the management end of things.  I am very proud of him.  He has matured inside and outside of the ring.”

 

 

 

“I am looking forward to working with Real Deal Entertainment.  Sal Musumeci has been a long time friend, and this is the final piece of the puzzle in-terms of completing the team around Anthony.  The reason that I am in this business is because of people like Anthony.  He is loyal, dedicated, and now has all of the pieces to become world champion.  We have tried to keep him busy, but in the last eight-months, we have had some fights fall out, but we are back on Saturday against Enver Halili.  “Juice” will be ready to show all that he is on the rise.”

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Abner Mares Hosts Community Event Thursday & Throws Out First Pitch at Los Angeles Dodgers Game Sunday as Part of Busy Memorial Day Weekend

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Mares Rematches Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Saturday, June 9 Live on SHOWTIME from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in Event Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Dodgers First Pitch Photos From
Mares Enterprises/Eder Mercado
 
Click HERE for Community Event Video Footage & HERE for Photos from Team Mares

LOS ANGELES (May 29, 2018) – Four-time world champion Abner Mares participated in two great events over Memorial Day Weekend, first hosting a Community Day at the L.A. County Sheriff’s Century Boxing Gym on Thursday, and then throwing out the first pitch at the Los Angeles Dodgers’ game on Sunday afternoon.

 

 

 

Mares is preparing for a world championship rematch against featherweight titleholder Leo Santa Cruz Saturday, June 9 live on SHOWTIME from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

On Thursday, Mares was joined by EMMY Award-winning sports reporter Jim Gray, Ringstar Sports Chairman and CEO Richard Schaefer and Mares’ strength and conditioning coach Luis Garcia, as the group spoke to 150 children ages seven to 19 on their careers and how champions are built in Los Angeles.

 

 

 

“Boxing is a disciplined and dedicated sport,” said Mares. “The Sheriffs know that with hard work, dedication and discipline, you can make it in life.

 

 

 

“You think in boxing a perfect record is everything? It isn’t. When you lose you know what makes you a better champion? Getting up, and becoming a champion again. Getting up every time and not quitting. That’s what makes a true champion.”

 

 

 

On Sunday, Mares was at Dodgers Stadium to throw out the ceremonial first pitch as part of Viva Los Dodgers, the monthly series at the stadium that celebrates Latino culture. With fight week right around the corner, Mares was able to enjoy the event with his focus still squarely on his showdown with rival Santa Cruz.

 

 

 

“It’s always great to be able to participate in events like these that directly reach people in my community,” said Mares. “I’m thankful to the Dodgers for the opportunity and I had a great time on Sunday. I hope everyone who was there comes out to STAPLES Center on June 9 because I’m locked in and ready to put on a great show for the fans in Los Angeles.”

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also feature unbeaten super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo defending his title against former world champion Austin Trout.

 

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For more information on the Century Sheriff’s Station visit @CenturyLASD, @CenturySheriffsStation or the Sheriff’s Youth Foundation website www.sherrifsyouthfoundation.com.

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.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/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

 

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

IN THE RAGE INTEVIEW Artem Frolov

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CHELYABINSK, Russia (May 29, 2018) – Undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov (10-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0) defends his title for the first time this Friday against American favorite Joe “Diesel” Riggs (47-17-1, M-1: 2-0-1) in the M-1 Challenge 93 co-featured event, in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

 

 

 

Frolov has knocked out four of his opponents and submitted four others.  Last October, Frolov captured the belt by defeating UFC veteran Caio Magalhaes, of Brazil, by unanimous decision and he needed a break to heal his injuries.

 

 

 

Artem Frolov (L) puts his perfect record and M-1 Challenge middleweight title belt on the line this Friday against Joe “Diesel” Riggs

 

 

 

In 2016 you had three fights and last year you fought only twice. How many fights a year would you like to have in the future?

 

 

 

AF: “I would like to fight three times a year. I think this is the best number because it lets me have enough time for good recovery after fights and enough time for training camps. Of course, there are also some distraction factors, which do not let me fight more often like, for example, some amateur competitions where I fight from time to time.”

 

 

 

Your title fight against Caio Magalhaes was a hard trial for you. How difficult was that 25- minute brawl?

 

 

 

AF: “I knew the fight was going to be a tough confrontation because Caio is a great fighter with excellent striking skills. However, during the fight I found the best way to fight him and saw how I could get the victory. He impressed me with his firmness; he did not quit after I delivered many hard punches, so I must admit he has a big heart.”

 

 

 

When did you learn that you were going to fight Joe Riggs? What can you say about his skills?

 

 

 

AF: “Even before the title fight I knew that, if I won the belt, my first title defense would be against Joe Riggs. He drew my attention with his debut fight in M-1 Global. I checked his record, took a look at the list of the guys he had defeated, and understood that sooner or later we were going to meet in The Rage.

 

 

 

“Of course, in the last few months, I watched many of the Diesel’s fights. His main advantage is his experience, he has five times more fights than me. Riggs is a well-rounded fighter, his wrestling skills together with the excellent control skills on the ground, and powerful ground-and- pound are probably his main strengths. So, he is definitely a fighter of the ‘American school’.”

 

 

 

After capturing the title, you were mentioned among the top 20 best prospects in the world by the famous MMA magazine Fighters Only. What does it feel?

 

 

 

AF: I was flattered to be mentioned in the best prospects list, especially by a respected magazine like Fighters Only. Such recognition proves that you dedicate your life to MMA for a reason and that you have really achieved something. But I know that I have much work to do and a lot of things in my game to improve.”

 

 

 

Two weeks after your fight against Riggs there will be a contender fight between Mikhail Ragozin and Valery Myasnikov. Who do you think will be the winner? Which one of them would you like to fight?

 

 

 

AF: “I am acquainted with both these guys, so I would not like to fight either of them. I can’t say who is going to win this fight because they are both strong athletes and have their advantages. In my opinion the one who will have better cardio will win the fight.

 

 

 

“I would prefer to fight only the strongest foreigners, not fellow countrymen. You travel around the country, have camps in different places, make friends and one day you are told that you are fighting one of them. That is not the best feeling, trust me, so I’d like to fight the best athletes from other countries, so I can fight not only for myself, my gym and my city, but for the country, defending the honor of the national flag.”

 

 

 

You have the same number of wins by knockouts and submissions in your record. How would you like to end the upcoming fight?

 

 

 

AF: “I came to MMA as a wrestler, so it makes me happy that I am getting better at striking. However, it feels great to win via submission as well, especially when it is a beautiful one. As a matter of fact, any finish is awesome, because my family and friends are worried about me during the fight and I don’t like to make them worry too long. So, I prefer to finish the fights early.

 

 

 

Russian star Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko (56-10-1, 1 NC, M-1: 6-0-0) headlines M-1 Challenge 93 against Brazilian power-puncher Bruno Silva (17-6-0, M-1: 0-0-0).

 

 

 

M-1 Challenge 93 will be live-streamed from Russia in high definition on www.M1Global.TV. Viewers will be able to watch the preliminary fights and main card by logging on to register at www.M1Global.TV. Fans may watch all the action on their computers, as well as on Android and Apple smart phones and tablets. M-1 Challenge 93 will also be available onwww.FITE.TV(preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card)

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

 

 

 

 

www.M1Global.tv

www.mixfight.ru

www.wmmaa.org

 

 

 

Twitter & Instagram:

 

 

@M1GlobalNews

@VFinkelchtein

@M1Global

 

 

 

Facebook:

 

 

 

www.facebook.com/M-1-GlobalNews

 

 

 

Upcoming M-1 Challenge Events:

 

 

June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia