All posts by FNU47

Undefeated featherweight prospect Irvin Gonzalez added to “Fight Night at The Zone”

 

This Saturday at The SportsZone in Derry, N.H.

 

 

 

QUINCY, Mass. (April 2, 2018) — This Saturday night’s “Fight Night at The Zone”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, has been strengthened by the late addition of hot prospect Irvin Gonzalez to a card already showcasing some of the best young, professional boxers in New England.

 

 

 

Granite Chin Promotions is on a mission to establish a fan-base in the Granite State, providing a fan friendly, full entertainment experience at The Sports Zone in Derry, New Hampshire.

 

 

 

Gonzalez (8-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of Worcester, MA, was a 2015 New England Golden Gloves champion, who qualified for the 2016 Olympic Trials. The 21-year-old featherweight prospect will face Mexican Francisco “El Mono” Medal (12-12, 8 KOs) in a six-round bout.

 

 

 

Gonzalez, who hasn’t fought since December 1 1 (sensational third-round knockout of previously undefeated 13-0 Marlon Olea in Providence), was supposed to fight St. Patrick’s Day in Boston, but he was informed the day of the weigh in that his opponent hadn’t cleared medicals.

 

 

 

I’m always in the gym working hard because I like to stay busy and be ready,” Gonzalez said. “No layoffs for me. I’ve been sparring 3-4 times a week to polish my craft. I’m always prepared. I was disappointed a few weeks ago, but I’m fighting on this card, and back on the right track.

 

 

 

“I only focus on my next fight, April 7th, against a tough, experienced opponent. He’s a veteran boxer from Mexico. After this Saturday night, I’ll concentrate on my next fight, May 5th at Foxwoods.”

 

 

 

The addition of Gonzalez with a card featuring some of tomorrow’s stars such as Hartford, CT light heavyweight champion Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (6-0, 5 KOs) means two of the top three prospects in New England will be in action this Saturday in Derry. And several other promising boxers will also be in action. Rivera faces Randy “The Rattler” Campbell, of Ohio, in the six-round co-featured event.

 

 

 

“We are happy to have Irvin on our show,” co-promoter Chuck Shearns said. “His last fight fell out and we are always happy to help local fighters, especially someone of Irvin’s caliber. We have five undefeated fighters on this show. They’re legitimate prospects with a lot of upside. Irvin, Richie and Omar are starting to get national attention and New Hampshire fans are getting an early look at them. The veteran fighters on this show have a lot to fight for as well. ”

 

 

 

Dorchester, MA lightweight Gabriel Duluc (11-3, 2 KOs) headlines in the eight-round main event against Dallas veteran Larry “Slomoshun” Smith.

 

 

 

Iraq War veteran Chris Traietti (25-4, 20 KOs), fighting out of Quincy, MA, meets Indiana veteran “Jammin'” James Morrow in an eight-round, non-title fight. Traietti, whose title will not be on the line, is also the co-promoter of “Fight Night at The Zone.”

 

 

 

Another top Conn. prospect, Danbury junior welterweight Omar Bordoy (4-0, 1 KO), takes on Carlos Galindo, of Woburn (MA), in a four-round match. Other four-rounders on the undercard include Peabody, MA light heavyweight Russell Kimber (1-0) vs. Dustin Caplinger; Irish welterweight Paddy McGee, now fighting out of Dorchester (MA), makes his pro debut vs. Philadelphia’s Bardraiel Smith; Springfield, MA welterweight Anthony Velezquez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Philadelphia’s Shavante Dixon, and Claremont, NH junior middleweight Rickey Ford (1-1-1) vs. Philadelphia’s Demetrius Thomas.

 

 

 

Also fighting on the undercard in six-round bouts are Stoughton, MA welterweight Travis Demko (5-1, 1 KO) vs. Paul DeSouza, and New Jersey middleweight Chris “Sandman” Thomas (7-0-1, 4 KOs) vs. Lynn, MA middleweight John Hantzopoulas.

 

 

 

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

 

 

 

Tickets, priced at $60.00 (ringside), $45.00 and $30.00, are on sale and available to purchase at www.ticketriver.com. Tables with wait service are also available for $400.00. Half-priced tickets are available for active members of the military, police and fire departments.

 

 

 

Doors open at 7:00 p.m., first bout 7:30 p.m. ET.

 

 

 

Event sponsors include Betley Chevrolet, Tobin Scientific, Matrix Aerospace, TownPlace Suites, Manchester Monarchs and Cars.com.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

Hawkins decisions Serrano to wins NABA-USA Welterweight title

 

 

 

Wins by Hard Hitting Promotions fighters Pizarro, Cuevas & Teah

 

Rock, Ellis, Williams and Alday remain undefeated

 

 

 

Philadelphia, PA (April 2, 2018) – This Past Friday night, Malik Hawkins remained undefeated by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Raymond Serrano to capture the NABA-USA Welterweight title that headlined an action-packed 8 bout card at The Fillmore in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

The sold-out show was promoted by Hard Hitting promotions.

 

 

 

Hawkins used his length to pick and land shots on the inside.  Hawkins raced to the early lead, but the veteran Serrano got going in the middle rounds as he used his experience to get himself back into the fight by winning scrums on the inside and an occasional long right hand.  Down the stretch, Hawkins dug down deep and took control of the fight as seemed to be the fresher fighter.  Hawkins who had never been past seven rounds, paced himself well against a tough Serrano, who never showed any signs of retreating as the two stood and fought until the final bell.

 

 

 

Hawkins of Baltimore, MD won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94 to raise his perfect mark to 13-0.  Serrano of Philadelphia was urged on by his loyal fan base, but fell just short, and now drops to 24-5.

 

 

 

Heavyweight prospect Darmani Rock landed a hard right to the body that dropped Ronny Hale down and out at 1:27 of round two of their scheduled six-round bout.

 

 

 

Rock of Philadelphia is now 11-0 with 7 knockouts.  Hale of Austin, Texas falls to 4-12.

 

 

 

Good looking prospect Brandon Pizarro rebounded nicely from his 1st professional defeat by pounding out a 4-round unanimous decision over Pablo Cupal in a lightweight fight.

 

 

 

Pizarro, 18 years-old of Philadelphia won by shutout scores on all cards of 40-36, and is now 9-1.  Cupul of San Diego is 9-24.

 

 

 

Samuel Teah dropped Orlando Rizo three times in the 1st round, and their lightweight bout was stopped at 2:35 of that opening frame.

 

 

 

Teah dropped Rizo with a right hand early in the round.  He followed that up with hard body shot that sent Rizo to the canvas, and finished off Rizo with another right hand.

 

 

 

Teah of Philadelphia is now 13-2-1 with 6 knockouts.  Rizo of Managua, Nicaragua is 19-13.

 

 

 

 

Undefeated prospect Jeremy Cuevas got off the deck to come back to win a six-round unanimous decision of Erain Cruz in a super lightweight bout.

 

 

 

Early on it looked like it could have been a rough night for Cuevas as he ate a perfect right hand that sent him to the canvas in round two.  A round later, Cuevas had blood dripping from his nostrils, but the young veteran got himself together and put his combinations together to come to take the rest of the fight, and win by scores of 59-55 on all cards.

 

 

 

Cuevas of Philadelphia is now 8-0.  Cruz of Ocala, FL is 4-5.

 

 

 

It looked like undefeated super middleweight Ronald Ellis would have a short night as he battered Taneal Goyco all over the ring in the first round of their scheduled six-round bout.  Ellis continued to have Goyco in trouble throughout their affair, and dropped Goyco with a right hand in round three.  Goyco hung tough, but took many power shots, and Ellis looked impressive in winning by shutout scores of 60-53 on all cards.

 

 

 

Ellis of Lynn, MA is now 15-0-2.  Goyco of Philadelphia 9-11.

 

 

 

Tramaine Williams won a six-round unanimous decision over Antonio Rodriguez in a featherweight bout.

 

 

 

Williams landed quick combinations, and cut Rodriguez over his right eye in the final round.

 

 

 

Williams of New Haven, CT won by scores of 60-53, 59-55 and 58-56 to raise his mark to 15-0.  Rodriguez of Mexico is 12-21.

 

Joey Alday, Jr. kept his knockout streak intact by stopping Michael Crain at 1:28 of round three of their scheduled 4-round junior middleweight bout.

 

 

 

Alday dropped Crain round two with a hard combination, and finished him off with a hard left to the body in round three.

 

 

 

Alday of Odessa, Texas is now 7-0.  Crain of Smyrna, DE is 1-2.

 

 

 

For the latest info at @hardhitpromo on    or

 

Hardhittingpromotions.com

 

 

 

 

ANTHONY JOSHUA OUTPOINTS JOSEPH PARKER IN HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP UNIFICATION SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® BEFORE CAPACITY CROWD IN CARDIFF, WALES

 

Joshua Goes The Distance For First Time In His Career And Now Owns IBF, WBA & WBO Heavyweight World Championships

                                                       

Encore Presentation In Primetime Tonight At 10:35 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME

 

016_Anthony_Joshua.jpg

Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

CARDIFF, WALES (March 31, 2018) – Undefeated and Unified Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua went the distance for the first time in his career, outpointing previously undefeated champion Joseph Parker in a heavyweight unification bout Saturday on SHOWTIME in Cardiff, Wales.

 

IBF and WBA Heavyweight World Champion Joshua (21-0, 20 KOs) added Parker’s WBO title to his mantle with a 118-110, 118-110, and 119-109 unanimous decision before a boxing indoor attendance record of more than 78,000 fans at Principality Stadium. 

 

While Joshua was the aggressor throughout, Parker established his jab in the early rounds in an attempt to negate Joshua’s six-inch reach advantage.  And while Parker had his moments, Joshua was more active and landed the more meaningful punches and appeared to stagger the New Zealander on a handful of occasions. 

 

In the championship rounds, it seemed the 28-year-old Joshua was going for the KO against Parker, who displayed a solid chin in becoming the only fighter to push Joshua the distance. 

 

“I am not going to judge my performance,” Joshua said.  “That’s for my coach to do.  My strategy was to get behind the jab and we did that.  The good jab will take you around the world. 

 

“Through rounds 10, 11, 12, I was focused.  I went the 12 rounds and I fought him hard, but it was light work.  This is boxing.  This is what we do.  Joseph Parker is a world champion.  I knew he was going to be determined.  Sometimes this is how it goes.  It becomes a tactical boxing fight.  This was going to be about finesse, and I controlled behind the jab and used finesse. 

 

“We cannot forget – I am now the unified heavyweight champion of the world.”

 

After the fight, Joshua was asked by Sky Sports reporter Andy Scott if he’d like to face fellow-undefeated WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder for the chance to become undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. 

 

“One hundred percent, 100 percent,” Joshua answered.  “You’re asking me, do I want to become the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world?  The WBA, IBF, WBO, IBO.  Twenty one fights, six world championship fights.  I am not into the hype.  I am about the business.  So, let’s talk business.  Eddie Hearn can talk with Al Haymon and (Shelly Finkel). 

 

“Just like Dillion (Whyte) said, ‘WILDER, LET’S GO, BABY.’  Let’s go.  On this side of the pond, we are serious.  Great Britain, the United Kingdom, we are representing.  We have all the fighters, champions from heavyweight all the way down to the lower weight classes.  We are about the business.” 

 

Joshua didn’t seem disappointed he was unable to score a KO yet still admitted he wasn’t satisfied with the first distance fight of his career.

 

“Definitely, we are not satisfied.  One step at a time,” Joshua said.  “We are not our best yet but we are at the pinnacle of boxing.  I always go in the deep end, always challenge myself.  I am ready for more challenges.  We will see what’s next.”

 

When pressed who he’d like to fight next, Joshua said, “Wilder.  Wilder or Fury,” referencing fellow Brit and former unified heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury, who has been inactive since 2015 due to a variety of issues. 

 

“Get him (Wilder) in the ring, and I’ll knock him spark out,” Joshua promised.   

 

The 26-year-old Parker (24-1, 18 KOs) didn’t dispute the decision in what was the first unification fight between undefeated heavyweight champions since 1987. 

 

“Today, I got beat by the better man.  The bigger man,” Parker said.  “My plan is to go home, work hard and come back again.

 

“I would work harder.  Make more punches.  I would love another go.  We could have worked inside more but whatever happened, happened. You can’t go back and change that. 

 

“I am young, strong, fit and ready to come back and challenge again.  We’ll be back again stronger.”

 

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will replay tonight at 10:35 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME.  Following tonight’s encore presentation, Joshua vs. Parker will air Sunday morning at 9 a.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

 

# # #

IBF World Title Challenger Emmanuel Rodriguez sends message to WBA Champion Ryan Burnett

 

In Cardiff, Wales, WBA bantamweight world champion, Ryan Burnett ( 19-0, 9 KO’s ) successfully defended his belt against Venezuelan, Yonfrez Parejo ( 21-3-1, 10 KO’s ) by unanimous decision.

 

 

 

 

Previously, Burnett was the WBA and IBF world champion, but he vacated the IBF because he decided to face WBA ranked Parejo, instead of facing the hightly touted Puerto Rican boxer, Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Rodriguez ( 17-0, 12 KO’s ), who is IBF top ranked.

 

 

 

 

Now Rodriguez is facing Paul Butler from England for the vacant IBF world title on a date to be announced. Purse bid schedule on April, 3 at the IBF headquarters in New Jersey.

 

 

 

 

“Congratulations Ryan Burnett on your victory. You’re lucky for not fighting me for the IBF world title but I guess you’re smart by leaving the title vacant. We know you left the title because you know deep in your heart, that the title belongs to me. I’m always willing to fight you in your house, in front of your people, but I understand that your heart of a champion is having some issues” said a confident Rodriguez.

 

 

 

 

“Burnett saw how I won gold medal at the Singapore Youth Olympic Games in 2010. In that tournament, Burnett also won gold in another category, but I won the ‘Best Fighter Award’”.

 

 

 

 

“Now my mind is 100% on Paul Butler who was a former world champion and is a veteran, but after that fight, and if Burnett has some honor left, we can unify belts in front of his people. Burnett has a big fan base that I admire a lot, and they deserve to see the best fighters facing each other”, said Rodriguez.

M-1 Challenge welterweight champion Alexey Kunchenko remains perfect Stops Alexander Butenko to go 18-0-0

And still champion…….Alexey Kuchenko (R)

M-1 CHALLENGE 90 RESULTS

 

 

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (March 31, 2018) – M-1 Challenge welterweight champion Alexey Kunchenko improved his professional MMA record to a perfect 18-0-0, stopping Russian challenger Alexander “Iron Capture” Butenko in the third round of last night’s M-1 Challenge 9- main event, at M-1 Arena in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

 

 

 

The 33-year-old Kunchenko (17-0-0, M-1: 10-0-0), also fighting out of Russia, has been the M-1 Challenge welterweight champion for nearly two years, when he knocked out Murad Abdulaev in the fourth round at M-1 Challenge 65. Kunchenko notched his 13th knockout against former M-1 Challenge lightweight champion Butenko (45-13-3, M-1: 11-3-1) in the third round on punches in his fourth successful title defense.

 

 

 

In the co-featured event, American veteran Joe “Diesel Riggs (47-18-1, M-1: 2-0-1) and Ukrainian middleweight Boris Polejay (18-6-1, M-1: 2-1-1) battled to a three-round split draw.

 

 

 

Brazilian flyweight Raphael Dias (15-5-0, M-1: 1-1-0) used an arm triangle choke to defeated former M-1 Challenge flyweight title challenger Vadim “Bad Santa” Malygin (12-4-1, M-1: 2-3-1), of Russia, for a second-round victory by submission.

 

 

 

Russian prospect Magomedkamil Malikov (5-0-0, M-1: 2-0-0) kept his perfect pro record intact, punching out Sado “The Panther” Ucar (5-5-0, M-1: 0-1-0), of Turkey, in the second round of a match contested at a catchweight.

 

 

 

In the main card opening fight, Russian middleweight Oleg Olenichev (10-5-0, M-1: 1-2-0) took a unanimous decision over Salmar “Sombra” Nunes (35-13-1, M-1: 0-1-0), of Brazil.

 

 

 

Most of the preliminary card action took place on that mat with five eight matches ending in submissions. Frenchman Bakary El Anwar (6-5-0, M-1: 1-0-0) won his M-1 Global debut with an ankle hook on Russian light heavyweight Alexander Popov (2-1-0, M-1: 2-1-0) for an opening-round submission, Russian light heavyweight Dmitry Tebekin (9-3-0, M-1: 3-1-0) took a majority decision over Abylkasym Yakubob (4-5-0, M-1: 0-1-0), of Kyrgyzstan, and Yakibob’s countryman, Nureles Aidarov (3-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), made the most of his M-1 Global debut, knocking out Russian Oleg Lichkovakha (3-3-0, 2 NC, M-1: 0-2-0, 1 NC) with a knee in round one.

 

 

 

In a battle of pro-debuting Russian middleweights at a catchweight, Vladimir Trisov‘s anaconda choke was too much to handle for Vyacheslay Babkin, Russian welterweight Movsar Bokov (4-1-0, M-1: 3-1-0) registered a submission win by way of a second-round submission versus Georgian Levan Solodovnik (5-3-0, M-1: 1-2-0) via an angle lock, and Russian lightweight Kurban Taygibov (7-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0) toon a unanimous decision fromLom-Ali Nalgiev (14-7-0, M-1: 5-2-0), of Russia.

 

 

 

In a match-up between a pair of undefeated lightweights, Russian Roman Bogatov (5-0-0, M-1; 4-0-0) submitted Tahir “Tank” Abdullaev (6-1-0, M-1: 0-1-0), of Azerbaijan, in the second round with an arm triangle choke. French featherweight Damien Peltier (9-8-1, M-1: 1-0-0) had an impressive M-1 Global debut, locking in a triangle choke on Maksim Kuldashev (2-1-0, M-1: 0-1-0) for a second-round triumph.

 

 

 

Ten different countries were represented by fighters in this International event: Russia, USA, Ukraine, Brazil, Turkey, France, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.

 

Complete results & picture gallery below:

 

 

 

 

MAIN CARD

 

MAIN EVENT — M-1 CHALLENGE WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Alexey Kunchenko (18-0-0, M-1: 10-0-0), Champion, Russia

WTKO3 (Punches – 4:04)

Alexander Butenko (45-13-3, M-1: 11-3-1), Challenger, Russia

(Kunchenko retains M-1 Challenge welterweight title)

 

 

 

CO-FEATURE – MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Joe Riggs (47-17-1, 1 NV, M-1: 2-0-1), USA

D3

Boris Polejay (18-6-1, M-1: 2-1-1), Ukraine

 

 

 

FLYWEIGHTS

Rafael Dias (15-5-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Brazil

SUB2 (Arm Triangle Choke – 4:39)

Vadim Malygin (12-4-1, M-1: 2-3-1), Russia

 

 

 

CATCHWEIGHT

Magomedkamil Malikov (5-0-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Russia

WTKO2 (Punches – 0:30)

Sado Ucar (5-5-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Turkey

 

 

 

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Oleg Olenichev (109-5-0, M-1: 2-1-0), Russia

WDEC3

Salmar Nunes (35-13-1, 1 NC, M-1: 0-1-0), Brazil

 

 

 

PRELIMINARY CARD

 

 

 

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

Bakary El Anwar (6-5-0, M-1: 1-0-0), France

WSUB1 (0:27)

Alexander Popov (2-1-0, M-1: 2-1-0), Russia

 

 

 

Dmitry Tebekin (9-3-0, M-1: 3-1-0)

DEC3

Abylkasym Yakubov (4-5-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Kyrgyzstan

 

 

 

CATCHWEIGHT

Nureles Aidarov (3-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Kyrgyzstan

WKO1 (Knee kick – 0:12)

Oleg Lichkovakha (3-3-0, 2 NC, M-1: 0-2-0, 1 NC)

 

 

 

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Vladimir Trusov (1-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0)), Russia

Wseb1 (Anaconda Choke – 2:48)

Vyacheslav Babkin (0-1-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Russia

 

 

 

WELTERWEIGHTS

Movsar Bokov (4-1-0, M-1:3-1-0), Russia

WSUB2 (Ankle Lock – 1:35)

Levan Solodovnik (5-3-0, M-1: 1-2-0), Georgia

 

 

 

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Kurban Taygibov (7-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0)

WDEC3

Lom-Ali Nalgiev (14-7-0, M-1: 5-2-0), Russia

 

 

.

Roman Bogatov (5-0-0, M-1: 4-0-0), Russia

WSUB2 (Arm Triangle Choke – 1:21)

Tahir Abdullaev (6-1-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Azerbaijan

 

 

 

FEATHERWEIGHTS

Damien Peltier (9-8-1, M-1: 1-0-0), France

WSEB2 (Triangle Choke – 4:55)

Maksim Kuldashev (2-1-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Uzbekistan

 

Kunchenko (L) attacked Butenko


Polejay (L) & Riggs battled to a draw


Dias (R) got a kick out of Malygin


Olenichev (L) edged Nunes


Aidarov (R) showed concern for his fallen opponent Lichkovakha

INFORMATION:

www.M1Global.tv

Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
@Vadim_finkelchtein
@M1Global
Facebook:
 
UPCOMING EVENTS:
 
Apr. 21 – M-1 Challenge 91: Dalgiev-Landwehr, M-1 Arena, Saint Petersburg, Russia

Julian Williams Training Camp Notes

Super Welterweight Contender Takes on Nathaniel Gallimore Saturday, April 7 in 154-Pound Title Eliminator Live on SHOWTIME from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas

 

 

 

SAN CARLOS, CA (March 30, 2018) – Top super welterweight contender Julian “J-Rock” Williams will look to put himself closer to another world title shot when he faces Nathaniel Gallimore in a 154-pound world title eliminator Saturday, April 7 live on SHOWTIME from Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas.

 

 

 

The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by Erislandy Lara, the longest reigning world champion at 154-pounds, clashing with undefeated champion Jarrett Hurd in a highly anticipated 154-pound world title unification bout. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features super middleweight world champion Caleb Truax in a rematch against former champion James DeGale.

 

 

 

The 12-round IBF title eliminator gives Williams a chance to earn a second world title fight, while it would be Gallimore’s first shot at the title. Gallimore has been outspoken in his belief that he will stop Williams, but Williams has chosen to not let the words affect him and focus on the task at hand.

 

 

 

“I have no reaction to the talk coming from Gallimore,” said Williams. “He’s trying to draw attention to himself and doing it in a classless way. If he wants a back-and-forth, he’s going to be talking to himself.

 

 

 

“He seems like he’s a strong fighter, but you never really know until you step in the ring with a guy. He’s on a hot streak, he’s a big puncher and obviously he has a lot of confidence. We thought this would be a good test and I think it’s going to be a great fight for the fans.”

 

 

 

Williams is currently finishing up training camp at the SNAC gym in San Carlos, California with trainer Stephen Edwards. In addition to work in the first part of training in Philadelphia with DeCarlo Perez and Jaron Ennis, he has sparred with the likes of Peter Quillin, Prenice Brewer and Joey Spencer in California.

 

 

 

“I’ve been coming out to California for parts of camp since 2014 and it’s really just something that gives me a bit of a spark heading into the fight,” said Williams. “There are some elevation and recovery aspects of training that we can do out here. It’s also a good way to get away from things and really dig to another level.”

 

 

 

Williams has been on the road back to title contention after dropping his first title shot to Jermall Charlo in 2016. Williams knew that he did not need to revamp his entire game and has recovered with victories over former champion Ishe Smith and Joshua Conley leading into this fight.

 

 

 

“I thought I was doing well in the Charlo fight so I never pushed the panic button after it didn’t go my way,” said Williams. “Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. The plan was always to improve each fight and each day in camp, so that’s what we’re still doing. We’ll see on April 7 if it’s enough.”

 

 

 

With an opponent who enters this fight on a seven-fight knockout streak, Williams knows he will have to use all of his physical and mental skills to pull out the victory.

 

 

 

“It’s going to be up to me what this fight looks like,” said Williams. “In the ring you have to be mature. I can’t get drawn into the kind of fight that he wants. If I stay focused, I should dominate him.

 

 

 

“I’m never going to look past anybody. I know that there’s nothing I can do in my future in this sport if I don’t beat Gallimore. I’m ready to go in there and look impressive on April 7.”

 

 

 

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and available by visiting AXS.com or the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Box Office.

 

 

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing  and  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Hard-Hitting Alfredo Angulo Takes on Former Champion Sergio Mora in Super Middleweight Clash & Unbeaten Emanuel Medina Battles Saul Corral in Undercard Attractions on Saturday April 7 From Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas

 

Premier Boxing Champions Event Headlined by Erislandy Lara vs. Jarrett Hurd 154-Pound World Title Unification

 

 

 

LAS VEGAS – (March 30, 2018) – The always exciting Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo squares off against former world champion Sergio “The Latin Snake” Mora in an eight-round super middleweight battle while unbeaten Emanuel Medina (13-0, 9 KOs) battles Saul Corral (27-10, 18 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight clash as part of undercard action Saturday, April 7 at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas.

 

 

 

The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by Erislandy Lara, the longest reigning world champion at 154-pounds, clashing with undefeated champion Jarrett Hurd in a highly anticipated 154-pound world title unification bout. The co-main event will see Caleb Truax will defend his 168-pound title against James DeGale in a rematch. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features Julian Williams and Nathaniel Gallimore meeting in a 154-pound world title eliminator.

 

 

 

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and available by visiting AXS.com or the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Box Office.

 

 

 

The action continues as Ava Knight (14-2-4, 5 KOs) meets Mayela Perez (19-21, 10 KOs) in six-round flyweight bout and Ahmed Mahmood (7-0-1, 3 KOs) takes on Sharone Carter (8-2, 2 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight match.

 

 

 

Angulo (24-6, 20 KOs), a rugged veteran with a resume that includes battles with world champions like Erislandy Lara and Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, is looking to rebound from a knockout loss to Freddy Hernandez in his last fight. Angulo was born in Mexicali, Mexico but lives and trains in California.

 

 

 

Mora (28-5-2, 9 KOs) is a former 154-pound champion who has clashed with some of the biggest names in boxing during his career, including Shane Mosley, Vernon Forrest and Daniel Jacobs. In his last fight the 37-year-old Mora of Los Angeles lost by TKO to Jacobs in a middleweight championship rematch.

 

 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing  and  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

ANTHONY JOSHUA SCALES 242 ¼ POUNDS, JOSEPH PARKER 236 ½ FOR HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP UNIFICATION TOMORROW LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

“I’m willing to take risks and take him out early.” – IBF & WBA Champion Anthony Joshua

 

 

 

“I’m here for a war.  You’re going to have to give everything to beat me.” – WBO Champion Joseph Parker

 

 

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® At 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT From Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales

 

 

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

CARDIFF, WALES (March 30, 2018) – IBF and WBA Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua weighed-in at 242 ¼ pounds and WBO Champion Joseph Parker measured 236 ½ pounds Friday before a capacity crowd at Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff for their Heavyweight World Championship tomorrow live on SHOWTIME.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT from ringside at Principality Stadium where nearly 80,000 fans will match boxing’s all-time indoor attendance record, initially set in 2017 in Joshua’s title defense against Carlos Takam at the same venue.

 

 

 

Joshua (20-0, 20 KOs) scaled his lightest in 10 fights, and more than 10 pounds lighter than his October 2017 defense of the IBF and WBA titles, while Parker (24-0, 18 KOs) measured 10 pounds lighter than all three of his world championship bouts.

 

 

 

“Carrying around a bit of extra weight makes things difficult,” Joshua said.  “I’ve been running well, training well.  There’s been tough times in camp, but losing that little bit of extra weight has made things that little bit easier.

 

 

 

“It’s a perfect weight for the fighter I’m about to face tomorrow because he’s nimble and he’s quick.  I’ve got boxing skill and I can control him, but I think the lighter I am the more I’ll be able to match him for speed.”

 

 

 

Parker, who will make his third defense as champion, took note of Joshua’s lighter weight.

 

 

 

“(Joshua’s weight) makes me think that he’s taking the fight very seriously,” Parker said.  “There’s not much of a weight difference, which is good.  I think we’re both going to be fast tomorrow night.  We’re both going to move well and throw some big bombs.

 

 

 

“I saw confidence in Joshua.  He’s a good champion.  I saw confidence so I’m expecting a really good fight.”

 

 

 

American Steve Weisfeld, New Zealand’s Ian Scott and Britain’s Steve Gray have been assigned as the three judges scoring from ringside.  The third man in the ring will be Italy’s Giuseppe Quartarone.

 

 

 

“I’m not worried about a decision,” Parker said.  “We’ve done everything we can in training to prepare.  The biggest thing for me is the challenge of fighting someone like Joshua.  If it goes into a dark place, how long will I stay there for?  How fast can I come back?

 

 

 

“I’m here for a good fight.  I’m here for a war.  You’re going to have to give everything to beat me.”

 

 

 

The massive global event will be watched in more than 215 territories throughout the world, a distribution figure that is on par with some of the biggest boxing events in history.

 

 

 

“You have to remember that even though I’m heavyweight champion of the world, there’s another belt I’m fighting for.  In my mind, I’m a challenger,” Joshua said.  “Scrap my belts.  I’m challenging for the WBO heavyweight championship of the world.  That’s what I’m going for and that’s what my mindset is.  I’m hungry.  I’m determined.  I’m willing to go the distance or I’m willing to take risks and take him out early.  I just want to secure that win one way or another.”

 

 

 

This will be just the 11th unification in heavyweight history.  Previous winners of unifications include Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis and Wladimir Klitschko.  The last fighter to win a unification between undefeated champions was Mike Tyson in 1987.

 

 

 

“These wins are creating history,” Joshua said.  “This type of fight where two champions who are undefeated come together is history.  The last person to win was Mike Tyson thirty years ago.  If I do win, I haven’t spoken about it much, but providing I do get this win we’re going to set history in late 2018.  I’ll become undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.”

FNU Combat Sports Show: Anthony Joshua’s Potential UFC Contract, Parker vs. Joshua Boxing Preview and Other Combat Sports News

This week on the FNU Combat Sports Show, Tom, Tony and Rich discuss a wide range of topics. We even touch on a little WWE news at the end of the show. We begin with discussions about Anthony Joshua possibly signing to fight under the UFC Boxing banner and move on later in the show to preview his fight against Joseph Parker this weekend. We also cover the temporary suspension of Canelo Alvarez and the involvement of Mark Burnett in the new Professional Fighters League. Listen to the full show in the player below:

 

 

James DeGale, Hugo Centeno Jr. & Nathaniel Gallimore Los Angeles Media Workout Quotes & Photos Ahead of Upcoming Matchups Live on SHOWTIME

 

 

 

 

DeGale Rematches Caleb Truax Plus Gallimore Faces Julian Williams Saturday, April 7 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Centeno Jr. Meets Jermall Charlo Saturday, April 21 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in Events Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Chris Farina/Maywweather Promotions

(Photos to be uploaded shortly)

 

 

 

LOS ANGELES (March 29, 2018) – Fighters training in the Los Angeles-area and competing in upcoming Premier Boxing Champions events on April 7 and April 21 hosted a media workout Thursday as they prepare to enter the ring live on SHOWTIME.

 

 

 

Former super middleweight world champion James DeGale and super welterweight contender Nathaniel Gallimore participated in the workout ahead of their respective matchups on Saturday, April 7 from Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas.

 

 

 

Middleweight contender Hugo Centeno Jr. also worked out for media before he enters the ring on Saturday, April 21 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast on Saturday, April 7 features DeGale in a super middleweight world title rematch against Caleb Truax and Gallimore facing Julian Williams in a super welterweight world title eliminator. The telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and is headlined by a 154-pound title unification between Erislandy Lara and Jarrett Hurd.

 

 

 

The April 21 event features Centeno Jr. facing Jermall Charlo for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title. Coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by a showdown between Adrien Broner and Jessie Vargas.

 

 

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Wild Card Boxing Club:

 

 

 

JAMES DEGALE

 

 

 

“Training camp has been fantastic. I rushed back from my shoulder injury in my last fight. I couldn’t believe I lost my title and I could only blame myself. I’m lucky to have this chance to make it right and regain my title.

 

 

 

“I’m injury-free now and physically ready for this fight. Most importantly, I’m mentally ready for this challenge and I can’t wait to get in the ring.

 

 

 

“I learned that you can’t rush fitness. I had a reconstructive surgery and I came back far too quick. I learned my lesson the hard way. Now I have to get it back the hard way.

 

 

 

“Fighting in Las Vegas is another dream come true. So many great fights have been there and I just can’t wait. The atmosphere and the vibe will be special. I’m going to put on a fantastic performance and regain my title.

 

 

 

“Caleb Truax is not on my level. I’m miles above him. On April 7 I’m going to show everyone why and show everyone what I’m all about.

 

 

 

“As soon as the doctor said that some athletes come back after six months from my injury, I was determined to fight in 2017. Everyone can see that I was slow in the ring. I was ashamed of my performance. It was embarrassing and I’m looking to erase that onApril 7.

 

 

 

“I’ve watched the first fight with Truax a couple of times but it’s very tough because I know that’s not me in there. For the past six weeks I’ve felt so much better. My jab is sharp again and everyone will see that when I become a two-time world champion.

 

 

 

“Truax has tasted what it’s like to be a world champion. He’s going to be hungry and have that burning desire to beat me. At the end of the day, I’m just too good for him and I’m going to prove it. I have to make a statement.”

 

 

 

HUGO CENTENO JR.

 

 

 

“I’m feeling great right now. The rib injury was somewhat a blessing in disguise. It gave me a training camp for my training camp. Once I came back from the injury I was already in great shape. I feel great and I’m not depleted whatsoever. I’m 100 percent mentally ready for this fight.

 

 

 

“I was disappointed at first because I wanted this fight to happen so badly. I had a chance to regroup and talk with my team and they put me on the right direction. I’ve had a great camp and I believe everything happens for a reason.

 

 

 

“I don’t pay attention to anything people are saying about Charlo. I’m staying focused because I know that this fight can change my whole career. I’m ready to win.

 

 

 

“Charlo is a strong fighter. A lot of fighters stand in front of him but he’s also a great boxer. I feel like I have those same attributes that he has. It’s going to be a chess match and a great fight.

 

 

 

“We have to see who the smarter fighter is on April 21. I know Charlo says he’s going to knock me out in one round, I’m not planning to let him do that. If I get my opportunity, I’m going to take it and I’m going to hurt him.

 

 

 

“I learned from my loss that I can’t underestimate anyone in this sport. I’ve stayed in the ring and worked the whole time since the loss and it’s shown. Getting that big knockout over Immanuwel Aleem was a great moment and has helped catapult me back to the top of this division.

 

 

 

“This is the kind of fight I’ve looked forward to since I was seven years old. I’m just a kid from a small town trying to make his dream come true. Now the moment is finally here.”

 

 

 

NATHANIEL GALLIMORE

 

 

 

“I’m not worried about the IBF belt right now. I’m worried about Julian ‘J-Pebbles’ Williams on April 7. I see a lot of things from Williams. I see fear and I don’t think he’s totally there mentally. He should have taken harder fights before this one. This is the wrong fight for him.

 

 

 

 

“I’ve had seven knockouts in a row and this is going to be eight. It’s nice to stay active and be able to jump on an opportunity like this when it presents itself.

 

 

 

“It’s always important to put on a good show for the fans. I’m a showman. I give the fans what they want. All action.

 

 

 

 

“It doesn’t matter where I fight, I’ll be ready. I’m excited to go back to Las Vegas. This is my third time fighting there and I’m planning on making it 3-0.

 

 

 

 

“This is a new training camp. I’m working in Los Angeles with John Pullman and Buddy McGirt. The weather is good out here and I think everything is going in my favor. I love the atmosphere out here.”