All posts by FNU47

amateur boxing, boxing, women's boxing

Field set for 2017   USA Boxing   Women’s Elite National Championships

Leave a comment
Dec. 5-9 in Salt Lake City, Utah
COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO (November 30, 2017) – Team USA women’s boxing hopefuls will be competing in the prestigious USA Women’s Elite National Championships, December 5-9, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
This year’s field is stacked with talent, including 2016 Olympic Trials Champion Virginia Fuchs (Kemah, Texas), who will be looking to close out an impressive 2017 year that included four international titles and an undefeated 16-0 record, and two-time World Champion and 2014 Youth Olympic Champion Jajaira Gonzalez (Fountain, Colo.)
Other top contenders include featherweight Christina Cruz (New York, N.Y), lightweight Rashida Ellis (Lynn, MA), as well as middleweight Naomi Graham (Colorado Springs, CO) and welterweight Oshae Jones (Toledo, Ohio)
Following a year of highly-competitive national events, the best U.S. female amateur boxers are set to compete in the 2017 USA Boxing Elite National Championship. With up to six spots in each division already secured, based on the results of the 2016 Elite National Championships, 2017 Elite Western Qualifier and 2017 Elite Eastern Qualifier, the remaining spots have been filled based on the wild-card application process to complete the field of elite boxers.
A total of 88 boxers applied for a wild card qualification with 35 allocations awarded to finalize the Elite National Championships brackets.
“With this being the first year of the new elite athlete selection process, we are excited to see the top talent in the country compete to represent Team USA in 2018,” said Matt Johnson, USA Boxing High Performance Director. “We are looking forward to a high level of competition during these championships, and are confident that the increased competitiveness at the national stage will translate to further improvement of USA’s performance internationally on the road to Tokyo in 2020.”
Below is the final list of elite boxers, in order of ranking, who will contend for the title of national champion:
 
 
USA BOXING ELITE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP FIELD
LIGHT FLYWEIGHTS (106 lbs.)
Jacquelyn Cuddleback – 2016 National Championships
Hillary Perez – 2016 National Championships
Mia Valdez – 2017 Western Qualifier
Jazzelle Bobadilla – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Veronica Rodriguez – 2017 Western Qualifier
Elimarie Torres – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Monica Lazadale – Wild Card Selection
Sabrina Slattery – Wild Card Selection
FLYWEIGHTS (112 lbs.)
Virginia Fuchs – 2016 National Championships
Kristyn Juarez – 2017 Western Qualifier
Maryquenn Vellinga – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Indeya Smith – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Leslis Rosas – Wild Card Selection
FEATHERWEIGHT (119 lbs.)
Christina Cruz – 2016 National Championships
Dacia Jacquez – 2016 National Championships
Mikiah Kreps – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Mariana Gonzalez – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Kristen McMurtree – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Jayda Davis – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Melanie Costa – Wild Card Selection
BANTAMWEIGHTS (125 lbs.)
Trudy Li – 2016 National Championships
Carmen Vargas – 2016 National Championships
Eliza Peralta – 2017 Western Qualifier
Nephateria Miller – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Brittany Sims – 2017 Western Qualifier
Clarice Morales – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Rianna Rios – Wild Card Selection
Leslie Soto – Wild Card Selection
LIGHTWEIGHTS (132 lbs.)
Rashida Ellis – 2016 National Championships
Jajaira Gonzalez – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Lupe Gutierrez – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Stacia Suttles – Wild Card Selection
Diana Estrada – Wild Card Selection
Wendy Casey – Wild Card Selection
LIGHT WELTERWEIGHTS (141 lbs.)
Amelia Moore – 2016 National Championships
Whitney Gomez – 2016 National Championships
Annalicia Sustaita – 2017 Western Qualifier
Destiny Jones – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Nargis Shanghais – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Raven Brown – Wild Card Selection
Ashleigh Moore – Wild Card Selection
WELTERWEIGHTS (152 lbs.)
Stephanie Malone – 2016 National Championships
Oshae Jones – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Deseree Jamison – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
MIDDLEWEIGHTS (165 lbs.)
Naomi Graham – 2016 National Championships
Leah Cooper – 2016 National Championships
Brooke Mullen – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT (178 lbs.)
Krystal Dixon – 2016 National Championships
Amber Montoya – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Kristen Leija – 2017 Eastern Qualifier
Fallon Farrar – Wild Card Selection
HEAVYWEIGHTS (178+ lbs.)
Danielle Perkins – 2016 National Championships
Shadasia Green – Wild Card Selection
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @USABoxing
Instagram: @USABoxing
Facebook: /USABoxing
boxing

Perrella to face Martin December 8 on FS1

Leave a comment
image1.jpeg

L-R – Head Trainer Michael Nowling, Welterweight Bryant Perrella, Coach Michel Sarduy

Fort Myers, FL (November 30, 2017) – Welterweight Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella returns to the ring against Alex “Chi Town Heat” Martin Friday, December 8 at Hialeah Park in Miami, FL.
The Perrella-Martin showdown is scheduled for 10 rounds and airs on FS1 at 9 PM ET as part of Premier Boxing Champions’ “PBC on FS1” series. The bout proceeds a light heavyweight matchup between former world champion Jean Pascal and unbeaten Ahmed Elbiali.
Fighting for the first time since a disappointing setback against Yordenis Ugas in September 2016, Perrella’s an outstanding 14-1 with 13 wins by knockout. The Fort Myers native has impressive stoppage victories over David Grayton (14-0), Ramon Ayala (25-5-1), Abraham Alvarez (20-8-1) and Patrick Boozer (11-3). A self-described gym rat, the 28-year-old has spent the last year fine-tuning his skills while also allowing a lingering injury to heal.
Living and fighting out of Chicago, IL, Martin is 13-2 as a pro and has 5 victories via knockout. In 2016, he scored a career best win by outpointing Juan Carlos Abreu (19-2-1) over eight rounds. Prior to entering the paid ranks, Martin was one of America’s top amateur boxers, winning the 2012 National Golden Gloves, 3 Chicago Golden Gloves titles and captured a silver medal at the 2011 National Golden Gloves. Martin is coming off consecutive slugfests with Miguel Cruz where he came up short both times, but a win over Perrella would put him back in the picture.
“Alex Martin is a talented fighter but like myself, is coming off a defeat,” said Perrella. “I’m expecting him to be at his best because this is an important fight for both of us. Training is great so far and we’ve traveled throughout Florida to work with some awesome fighters. I will be fully prepared for December 8 and plan to show everybody that my last fight was a fluke.”
Fans can interact with Perrella on Instagram @bryantperrella or Facebook.com/teamperrella.
mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

2017 ROOKIE STANDOUTS WILL BATTLE IN FIRST NEF EVENT OF NEW YEAR

Leave a comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lewiston, Maine (November 30, 2017) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to Lewiston onSaturday, February 3, 2018 with the fight promotion’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 32: Super Saturday.”  Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur middleweight bout to the card.  Josh Jones (2-2) is scheduled to meet Mark Gardner (1-0) at a fight weight of 185-pounds.

Josh Jones’ rise to the top of the NEF middleweight division in 2017 was nothing short of meteoric.  A former basketball star at Erskine Academy in South China, Maine and draftee of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the NBA Developmental League, Jones has honed his craft in the martial arts at First Class MMA of Brunswick.  It took him a mere 24-seconds combined to knock out his first two opponents this past year.  Jones’ four-second knockout of Anthony Spires (0-3) went viral worldwide and was featured on major websites like Bleacher Report.  After back-to-back losses to finish the year, Jones is looking to rebound with a win to open 2018.

“I am very honored and blessed to have the opportunity to compete against Mark,” said Jones. “Mark has shown to be an awesome competitor. I look forward to the challenge on February 3rd. As an MMA fighter and competitor, it is always a privilege to step into the cage and perform under the lights for New England Fights.”

Mark Gardner made his debut in the NEF cage earlier this month in Portland.  Gardner faced another up-and-coming middleweight in the form of Carlton Charles (1-1).  Last summer, it was Charles who handed Josh Jones his first loss.  Gardner impressed many in attendance with his gutsy performance against Charles.  He had an answer for everything Charles threw at him early in the fight, dispatching Charles in the second round by technical knockout.  For those who have followed Maine combat sports for some time, Gardner’s toughness comes as no surprise.  His gritty, workmanlike style has been the hallmark of his team, the Academy of MMA in Portland, for many years.

“I’m excited to get back in the cage for my next fight,” declared Gardner. “I learned a lot from my first fight and have been working on my technique. I can’t say much about my opponent, I don’t really know anything about him – I just fight who my coach tells me to fight.”

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 32: Super Saturday,” will see the company make its return to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine.  The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 3, 2018.  Tickets are on-sale now online atwww.TheColisee.com.

boxing

TOP CRUISERWEIGHT PROSPECT FABIO TURCHI MAKES UNITED STATES DEBUT THIS FRIDAY NIGHT

Leave a comment
 
LIVE ON CBS SPORTS NETWORK
Providence, Rhode Island (November 29, 2017) This Friday night, December 1, top cruiserweight prospect FABIO “Stone Crusher” TURCHI, (12-0, 9 KO’s), of Florence, Italy makes his highly anticipated U.S. debut against Detroit, MI veteran DEMETRIUS BANKS, (9-3, 4 KO’s) from The Strand Ballroom and Theatre in Providence, Rhode Island and telecast live on CBS Sports Network (9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT).
Turchi vs. Banks, scheduled for eight rounds, is part of an eight-bout action packed card presented by Boxing Legend Evander Holyfield’s The Real Deal Boxing.
Tickets for ‘Real Deal Championship Boxing V’ starting at $45 are can be purchased through www.TheRealDealBoxing.com and www.thestrandri.com.
The Strand Ballroom and Theatre is located at 79 Washington Street, Providence, RI, 02903. Doors will open on the evening of the event at 6:00 p.m. ET with the first bell at7:00 p.m. ET.
“I’m thrilled to be fighting in the United States,” said the 24-year-old Turchi. “Since I turned professional two years ago I’ve wanted to come here and fight.”
“When I arrived here on Sunday night for the first time I felt very good right away. I’ve met a lot of Italian-Americans here in Providence and they’ve been very cordial to me which is galvanizing me to a great performance on Friday night.
“I consider myself an intelligent fighter with power. I can box to a decision but if the opportunity comes along during the fight for a knockout I’ll take advantage of it,” continued Turchi known in Italy for his show-stopping knockouts.
“I don’t know much about Demetrius Banks but I’m very well prepared for anything in the ring.
“Since I was a kid, being Italian, my favorite fighter was Rocky Marciano. It’s an honor to be fighting so close to his hometown of Brockton, Massachusetts on Friday night.”
“Evander was a great world champion in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions. I will do my best to make him proud of me on Friday night.”
Said Holyfield, “Just being around Fabio these last few days you can see how serious he takes his career. I’m excited for boxing fans in Providence and those watching on CBS Sports Network to have the opportunity to see him fight.”
In the televised main event on Friday night, TOKA KAHN-CLARY, (23-1, 16 KO’s), of Providence, Rhode Island defends his WBC-USNBC Featherweight Title against undefeated Philippines’ based contender JOHN VINCENT MORALDE, (19-0, 10 KO’s) in the 10-
Opening the telecast in a six-round featherweight clash, popular, undefeated Worcester, MA native IRVIN GONZALEZ, (7-0-0, 6 KO’s) battles MARLON OLEA, (13-1-0, 12 KO’s), of Barranquilla, Colombia.
Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is proud to partner with The Strand Ballroom and Theatre, Medical Arts Radiology (www.medicalartsradiology.com) and Venum (www.venum.com).
SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: @TheRealDealPromotions
Twitter: @TheRealDealBox, @Holyfield
Instagram: @TheRealDealBoxing
boxing

PHOTOS, QUOTES — TOKA KAHN-CLARY PROVIDENCE PRESS CONFERENCE!

Leave a comment
TICKETS ON SALE!!

(L-R) – Fabio Turchi, Evander Holyfield, Toka Kahn-Clary, Sal Musumeci, CEO of The Real Deal Boxing, and Nick DeLomba
PROVIDENCE, RI (November 30, 2017) – Hall-of-Famer Evander Holyfield hosted the final press conference for this Friday night’s ‘Real Deal Championship Boxing V’ card, presented byhis The Real Deal Boxing, the promotional entity under his Real Deal Sports and Entertainment, this afternoon at Ladder 133 Sports Bar & Grill in Smith Hill, Rhode Island.
 
An exciting tripleheader, arguably the best top-to-bottom card in recent Rhode Island boxing history, willair on CBS Sports Network, starting at 9 p.m. ET,live from The Strand Ballroom and Theater in Providence, RI. The entire undercard will be live-streamed, starting at 7 p.m. ET, online at www.TheRealDealBoxing.com.
Providence featherweight Toka “T-Nice” Kahn-Clary (23-1, 16 KOs) headlines against undefeated Filipino invader John Vincent Moralde (19-0, 10 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant WBC USNBC featherweight title.
Tickets starting at $45 are On Sale and can be purchased throughwww.TheRealDealBoxing.com and www.thestrandri.com.
The Strand Ballroom and Theater is located at 79 Washington Street, Providence, RI, 02903. Doors will open on the evening of the event at 6:00 p.m. ET, first bell at 7:00 p.m. ET, and live broadcasting starts at 9 p.m. ET on CBS Sports Network.
MAIN EVENT – VACANT WBC USNBC FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (10) – CBSSN
Toka “T-Nice” Kahn-Clary (23-1, 15 KOs), Providence, RI by way of Liberia
vs.
John Vincent Moralde (19-0, 10 KOs), General Santos, Philippines
CO-FEATURE – CRUISERWEIGHTS (8) – CBSSN
Fabio “Stone Crusher” Turchi (12-0, 9 KOs), Florence, Italy
vs.
Demetrius Banks (9-3, 4 KOs), Detroit, MI
FEATHERWEIGHTS (6) – CBSSN
Irvin Gonzalez (7-0, 6 KOs), Worcester, MA
vs.
Marlon Olea (13-1, 12 KOs), Baranquilla, Colombia
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (8)
Nick DeLomba (11-2, 2 KOs), Cranston, RI
vs.
Louis Cruz (12=3, 6 KOs), Bronx, NY
JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)
Timmy Ramos (4-0-1, 4 KOs), Framingham, MA
vs.
Phil Davis (1-1), Worcester, MA
WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
Poindexter Knight (pro debut), Philadelphia, PA
vs.
Samuel Forjoe (0-1), Bronx, NY
CRUISERWEIGHTS (4)
Bryan Daniels (5-1, 3 KOs), Worcester, MA
vs.
Darnell “The Unknown” Pierce (5-1, 1 KO), Frederick, MD
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)
Jeremy “J-Flash” Nichols (7-1-1, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV
vs.
Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (13-15-1, 5 KOs), Vega Maja, Puerto Rico
(all fights & fighters subject to change)
PRESSER QUOTES
Sal Musumeci, CEO of The Real Deal Boxing: “We’re honored to be here in Rhode Island. So many champs come through here and we’re here for that reason and its great boxing fans. I’ve been promoting 20 years with more than 400 shows worldwide. I know where we want to go to places with people who appreciate boxing.”
“Evander and I got together to put together The Real Deal Boxing because we want the same shows, two warriors in the ring, and that’s what you’re going to see Friday night at The Stand. Thanks for accepting is here. Toka is a great inspiration. When I first heard his story, my COO (Eric Bentley) sad we need to sign him. He’s in a tough fight. Toka accepted the challenge because he believes he’ll be world champion.”
“Turchi is an undefeated cruiserweight who will grow into a heavyweight. An Italian heavyweight like the great Rocky Marciano who fought in providence so many times.”
“I guarantee on Friday night you’ll see the most competitive fights in Providence in many years.”
Evander Holyfield: “I’m honored to be here. A big part of me being a promoter is how can I help boxing? I started at eight, when I was told I’d be like Ali. I believed that, but I had to ask my mother (permission to box). I was a four-time heavyweight world champion, but I also had my ups and downs. I tell them (my fighters), if they listen and ask me for advice, I will tell them. The problems today with millennials is that there’s really nobody to tell them. Just ask me, I tell them.”
“I bring a lot to boxing, but I won’t say I will make my fighters champions. I will give them an opportunity to be champion. I had opportunities and never quit. If you set goals and you don’t quit, you’ll reach that goal. Correct your mistakes and don’t quit. These fighters need to believe in me but, more importantly, they need to believe in themselves. I can give them advice because I’ve done it. I’m on their side.”
Toka Kahn-Clary: “I want to thank Evander, Sal and everybody on my team for having me fight in my state. I also want to thank my manger, trainer and Dan Crotty. I’m happy to be here. Boxing isn’t easy, but it is the path I’ve chosen. I’m fighting here on national television, representing my city and state.”
“I’m going to put on a show December 1st. It’s not going to be easy but I’m going in the ring to give it my all. I can’t wait to fight!”
 
Seth DeRobbio, manager of Toka Kahn-Clary, Irvin Gonzalez, Nick DeLomba & Timmy Ramos:
“I want to thank Sal and Evander for giving Providence good fights. This is a great opportunity for Toka, who is fighting a 19-0 opponent, setting up a 2018 to be a big year for him. Hopefully, we’ll be bringing something very big to Providence, too. You won’t know who is going to win Friday night until the fights are over.”
Peter Manfredo, Sr., head trainer for Kahn-Clary: “I’d like to thank Evander, Seth, the whole crew (The Real Deal Boxing). When Seth mentioned signing Toka with Evander, I soon learned that they take care of their fighters, no BS. Listen to them and you’ll make it to the top.
“Toka Kahn-Clary is the best fighter I’ve ever had, I’ve had a lot of good ones. Toka is always in condition, he works hard and has an iron chin. He wants to be a legend and I’m going to do everything to help him.”
Fabio Turchi: “I’m really happy to be here. I want to thank Real Deal Boxing for having faith in me. I will try to do my best to put on a great show. The people here mean a lot to me and I want to make the Italian-Americans here in Providence proud of me.”
Nick DeLomba: I want to thank Evander for putting me on this card. I grew up watching his fights on video; he is my idol and I’m honored to be fighting on his card. I come to fight. My opponent is a tough fighter who’ll bring his best.”
                            *                    *                     *                               
Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is proud to partner with Medical Arts Radiology (www.medicalartsradiology.com) and Venum (www.venum.com).
SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: @TheRealDealPromotions
Twitter: @TheRealDealBox
Instagram: @TheRealDealBoxin
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Errol Spence Jr. vs. Lamont Peterson Press Conference Quotes & Photos  

Leave a comment
Welterweight World Title Showdown Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, January 20 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
Click HERE for Press Conference Video from 
DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (November 29, 2017) – Unbeaten welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr. and former champion Lamont Peterson went face-to-face for the first time Wednesday at a press conference in Brooklyn to discuss their world title showdownheadlining action on Saturday, January 20 live on SHOWTIME. The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature undercard attractions that will be announced in the near future.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are priced starting at $50, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also be available in Spanish via secondary audio programming (SAP).
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday:
ERROL SPENCE JR.
“You’re going to see the same Errol Spence that you’re used to. I can’t look ahead because I know how dangerous Lamont Peterson is. I’ve been in training camps with him and I know what he can do.
“I’ve seen too many fighters look down the road and get beat before they get to the big fight. I have to be 100 percent focused and hungry. I’m fully dedicated to this fight.
“Lamont can push me to even greater levels. I feel like he is a better fighter than Kell Brook and has even more heart than Kell Brook and he can bring out the best in me.
“I think it’s going to start out as a boxing match, but as we go on, it’s going to be a dog fight. We both have big hearts. I’ve never known Lamont to turn down any fight. Not a lot of people wanted to fight me. The big names shied away from me but Lamont stood up and said he’d fight me. This is going to be a hard fight.
“I used to watch Lamont and his brother Anthony Peterson before I ever met them. I like their styles, the way they throw body punches and the fundamentals that they learned from Barry Hunter.
“I think I can be known as the best pound-for-pound in the sport, but I have to take it one fight at a time. I want to be the undisputed welterweight champion. That should be everyone’s ultimate goal – to be the best fighter in the sport. But first I have a big test ahead of me January 20.
“This is the business of the sport. I was a young guy when Lamont was giving me advice. Now we’ve gotten to this point. It really shows his longevity in the sport and how I’ve reached the ranks of being a top pro fighter.
“Sparring with Lamont Peterson was really great work. It was a learning experience. I was an amateur so I was going at a fast pace and Lamont was being patient, blocking and countering and picking his shots. He was fighting at a pro pace and I didn’t really understand it until I got farther into my career.
“You’ve seen me and Lamont fight. We’re not in boring fights. We have fan-friendly styles and you’re going to get a really good fight. We have the mentality to really go after it and give it our all to get this win.
“I want the best in this division to all fight each other. It’s time for everyone else to stand up and proclaim that they want to be great. That’s how we get this division to the peak. I don’t feel like waiting to fight the best. I want to prove myself.”
LAMONT PETERSON
“This is a world title fight and I’m thankful for that. I try not to make too much out of each fight. I just want to take it one fight at a time. I’ve done this for 13 years as a professional. All fights are the same. I’m going to go in there and take care of business.
“As a top fighter, you’re obligated to take what comes on the table. Regardless of who it is. It’s boxing. It’s a sport and we’re competitors. We want to go in there and compete to see who’s the best. We’re going to treat it like business like we always do.
“You already know when I fight, it’s a feeling out process to start, but in my head, I’m ready to go. It’s going to get rough in the trenches and we’ll see who wants it more.
“I knew six years ago when Errol was in my camp that we’d get to this point. I knew he would be a champion. For the most part, I’ve seen him improve and progress throughout the pro ranks and I believe he’s going to keep getting better.
“I don’t pay any attention to the outside noise. I respect everyone’s opinion. I just go out and train to do what I love to do. I do this because I love to box. I’m not here to get on a list. I truly love this sport.
“I can’t worry about people thinking that Errol is the next star in this sport. I believe that, but I can’t worry about it.  It is up to me and my team to come up with the right type of strategy and execute it.
“I’m not too worried about figuring out his southpaw stance. I’ve been around long enough and encountered enough southpaws. I’m confident I’ll be able to handle it.
“The size may seem like an advantage for Errol, but it’s up to me and my team to figure out the best way to negate it. I know who I am. I’m a competitive person. Regardless of everything, I’m going to come to win.”
DERRICK JAMES, Spence’s Trainer
“We have a game plan in place. We’ll try to perfect everything leading up to this one. We’re working on making Errol a more complete fighter every time out. He’ll be better than he was when you saw him against Brook.
“We’re looking for the perfect fight. It takes a great fighter to bring out the greatness in another great fighter. These guys are high caliber fighters and it’s about as good a matchup as you can have in the division.
“These are two guys with the mentality to go after it. But they also have technical skill. This is going to be an old school fight between guys with real skills.
“It’s one thing to do it, but it’s another to teach. I’ve really understood this sport since I became a trainer. Fighters are developed, not born. I’m going to keep working with these guys on the fundamentals so we can bring up the whole sport.”
BARRY HUNTER, Peterson’s Trainer
“When I look at Errol Spence, I instantly fell in love with him because he reminded me of Lamont so much. They both have that dog mentality. I’ve always known he was a special fighter.
“Lamont told me when he worked with Errol that he really liked the kid. He knew he would be a world champion. I had to remind myself that this is business. We have to fight our friends.
“These are the two guys who are ready to fight anybody. The fight on January 20 is going to be one to remember. It’s a fan-friendly fight.
“Errol Spence is the best fighter in the welterweight division. You have athletes that can fight and athletes who are fighters. Errol and Lamont are both. They have the skills and they have the ability to fight.
“To be the best in the world, you have to fight the best in the world. All the greats have done it. In order to get back to the glory days, we need to put the best against the best. I have confidence in Lamont Peterson against anybody.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“There are very few fights you could make that are better in the welterweight division than this fight. It’s going to take place at the home of big-time boxing, here at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME.
“Errol Spence is one of the most talked about fighters in the sport. Some think he could be the best fighter in the world. He’s consistently said he only wants to fight the best and on January 20 he will be fighting another champion and another great welterweight. Lamont Peterson never backs down from a challenge and we know he’ll be ready for this fight on January 20.
“This is a great event that continues the run of significant meaningful matchups on SHOWTIME. It’s been great quality programming. The fight cards have all been incredibly easy to promote because the fights have been so strong. You have to make fights with great fighters battling other great fighters. That’s what we need to energize our fans and our sport.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“As we come to the end of 2017 we look back on what has been a really strong year. 25 nights of live boxing, 80 live boxing matches and 27 world title fights. Not just title fights, but world title fights featuring top ranked challengers against top ranked champions.
“We’ve brought you the most watched fight of the year in Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia right here at Barclays Center on CBS. It was also the most watched primetime boxing match in nearly 20 years. But we will not be resting on our laurels.
“We’ll kick off next year with an incredibly strong card. Errol Spence has grown up on SHOWTIME and we’re proud of that. He made his debut on ShoBox and won his world title on SHOWTIME. He has knocked out nine straight opponents and in his last five fights his opponents have an impressive record of 141-7-3.
“Not a lot of fighters are rushing to fight Errol Spence. Lamont Peterson not only stepped up to the challenge, but he relinquished his welterweight title to take this fight. That’s the kind of fighter he is. He has one of the strongest resumes in the division and he’s fought the best guys in the sport.
“We’re thrilled to kick off the year with this matchup. It’s another great fight in the welterweight division, a division we’ve been paying a lot of attention to for years. We’ll see you on January 20.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“We’re coming off of an incredible 2017 for BROOKLYN BOXING. It far exceeded my expectations. We’re very committed to boxing, not just now, but in the future. This fight kicks off what I think will be a great 2018 for BROOKLYN BOXING.
“Lamont was on the first ever PBC card at Barclays Center in 2015 and Brooklyn is happy to have you back. Errol was here in the spring of 2016 and we’ve had him as a fan several times, but we far prefer having you here in the ring.
“Barclays Center is known for hosting 50-50 fights and this is no different. We’re thrilled to be holding this event here in Brooklyn. We look forward to seeing you on January 20.”
# # #
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,
and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing

Brandon Robinson and Christopher Brooker to renew rivalry in explosive co-feature bout Friday night at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

Leave a comment
               
 
Loaded 12 bout card set for THIS FRIDAY, December 1st at 2300 Arena in Philadelphia
Tyrone Brunson takes on Manny Woods in main event
 Jaron Ennis takes on George Sosa
Omar Douglas & Kyrone Davis in action

Plus undefeated  Shamsuddeen Justice, Marcus Bates & Colby Madison

Heavyweight contender Joe Hanks takes on undefeated Joel Caudle
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA (November 29, 2017) – They fought as amateurs, and are both considered among the best super middleweights in the city.
This Friday night, Brandon Robinson and Christopher Brooker meet as professionals in what could shape up to be an explosive co-feature bout of a 12 fight card at the

2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
The eight-round bout is for the UBF All-Americas title.
The loaded show is promoted my King’s Promotions.
The main event will pit Tyrone Brunson (25-6-2, 23 KOs) against Manny Woods (16-6-1, 6 KOs) of Saint Petersburg, Florida in a junior middleweight bout scheduled for ten rounds.
“Training has been great.  This has been the best camp that I have had since turning professional hands down,” said Robinson. 
Although this could be a breakthrough fight for 29 year-old Robinson, He has been looking at Brooker no different than any previous foe.
“I look at every fight as a big fight.  I see each fight as if I am fighting Canelo or Golovkin, so I get my self in the best shape I can be.”
Being that they are in the same city, there is the aforementioned history between the two fighters.
“We fought as amateurs, and I won that fight.  Since the, we have sparred a couple times, and that has given me a great scouting report on him, and let’s just say I feel very comfortable going into this fight.”
Fighting against another Philly fighter is nothing new for Robinson as he already has a victory over Lamont McLaughlin.
“I have been through this, and these kind of fights bring out the best of me, and with a winon Friday, this will open up many doors for me that I never expected to be opened.  I am looking for a complete performance,  The fans will see power in both hands, craftiness, ring generalship and a huge heart.  I just want to thank King’s Promotions, and I am looking to take home the UBF All-Americas Super Middleweight title.”
For the 26 year-old Brooker, he has been here before but he wants to get back in the win column after losing to undefeated Light Heavyweight Ahmed Elbiali in a fight that he took on short notice on July 18th.
“I got right back in the gym after that fight.  I been working for 12 weeks.  I have a new personal trainer Jermaine Clark and my new trainer Octavio Pineda,” said Brooker.
Brooker does not believe that the amateur loss to Robinson means anything going into Friday night.
“Yea, it does not mean anything.  It was my 3rd amateur fight.  The sparring sessions were good.  I treated them like I wanted to get some revenge for losing to him, and I am very confident after those sessions.  This fight for me is about getting this belt .  People will see me outwork him and outclass him.”
Brooker has made his name throughout the boxing circles with his willing to fight and defeat anybody at anytime.  That is evidenced by his wins over Leo Hall, John Magda, Antowyan Aikens and Gabriel Pham.  Brooker also stepped up to face Elbiali, Ronald Gavril and Ronald Ellis, and he became a favorite on national television because of his tough as nails style.
“Robinson is just another guy in front of me.  I been in and defeated much more experienced fighters then him.  He has not have anything that I have not seen in the ring.  I am not looking past him, I am looking through him.  I was beating Gavril before the fight was unjustly stopped.  He went on to barely lose in a bid for a world title and now he is getting a rematch with him, so that just shows what level I am on.  I want that rematch or (WBC Champion) David Benevidez.”
“I appreciate King’s Boxing and I am honored to fight for another belt.  I appreciate Brandon for signing the contract.  Friday night is a big fight for me, my family and all of my supporters.
Jaron Ennis (16-0, 14 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on George Sosa (15-10-1, 15 KOs) of Reading, PA in a eight round welterweight bout.
Omar Douglas (17-2, 12 KOs) of Wilmington, DE battles Martin Cardona (22-9, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, MEX in a eight-round super featherweight bout.
Kyrone Davis (12-1, 5 KOs) of Wilmington. DE fights Jaime Barbosa (19-12, 9 KOs) of San Jose, Costa Rica in a eight-round middleweight bout.
Joe Hanks (21-2, 15 KOs) of Newark, NJ fights undefeated Joel Caudle (7-0-1, 5 KOs) of Raleigh, NC in a heavyweight tussle.
In a six-round super bantamweight affair, Marcus Bates (7-0-1, 6 KOs) of Washington, DC fights Antonio Rodriguez (11-19-1, 5 KOs) of Durango, MX.
In four-round bouts:
Shamsuddeen Justice (1-0) of Philadelphia will fight Latorie Woodberry (1-5-1) of Roanoke, VA in a junior welterweight bout.
Rasheed Johnson (2-1,1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA squares of with Kashon Hutchinson (3-3-1, 2 Kos) of Reading, PA in a welterweight contest.
Undefeated heavyweight Colby Madison (4-0-1, 3 KOs) of Owings Mills, MD fights Randy Easton  (4-9-2, 4 KOs) of Sunbury, PA.
Romuel Cruz of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against Rondarrius Hunter (1-1, 1 KO) of Atlanta, GA in a super bantamweight bout.
Christopher Burgos (0-1) of Philadelphia battles Gerardo Tiburcio (1-0, 1 KO) of Coatesville, PA in a lightweight fight.
VIP TICKETHOLDERS WILL HAVE A SPECIAL MEET AND GREET AT 5 PM ON FIGHT NIGHT.  THAT WILL INCLUDE SPECIAL DRINK SPECIALS ($3 DRAFT BEER, $5 CITYWIDE SPECIALS WHICH INCLUDES A SHOT OF WHISKEY AND DRAT BEER AS WELL AS $4 MARGARITAS OR GLASS OF WINE FOR LADIES)
THERE WILL BE A PRESS CONFERENCE ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH AT THE 2300 ARENA.
THE WEIGH IN WILL TAKE PLACE ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH AT 4 PM AT THE 2300 ARENA
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

MICHAEL ‘MAYDAY’ MCDONALD MAKES PROMOTIONAL DEBUT AGAINST PETER LIGIER DURING MAIN EVENT OF BELLATOR 191 IN NEWCASTLE, ENGLAND ON DEC. 15

Leave a comment

VALERIE ‘TROUBLE’ LETOURNEAU ALSO SET FOR BELLATOR DEBUT AGAINST KATE JACKSON

 

LOS ANGELES – Two of Bellator’s top recent free agent signings, Michael McDonald (17-4) and Valerie Letourneau (8-6), will both make their long-awaited promotional debuts during Bellator 191 at Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle, England on Friday, Dec. 15.

 

“Mayday” will take on Peter Ligier (8-1-1) in a bantamweight main event, while “Trouble” will compete at flyweight against Kate Jackson (9-2-1) in the co-main event. In addition, British heavyweights collide when James “The Colossus” Thompson (20-16, 1 NC) returns to the Bellator cage where he meets Philip De Fries (13-6, 1 NC). Finally, two lightweight contests have also been added, as Jeremy Petley (11-8) battles Lewis Monarch (9-2) and Ash Griffiths (4-4) takes on Mohammad Yahya (3-1).

 

Bellator 191: McDonald vs. Ligier will be broadcast free on SPIKE Friday, Dec. 15 at 9 p.m. ET/ 8 p.m. CT. Tickets for the event can be purchased from Ticketmaster.co.uk & event.co.uk.

 

At only 26 years of age, McDonald will enter the Bellator cage with experience against some of the top bantamweights the sport of MMA has to offer, including Renan Barao, John Lineker, Urijah Faber and Brad Pickett. A veteran of the WEC and UFC veteran, the Modesto, Calif.-native signed with Bellator following a nine-fight, five-year run with his former promotion. With 15 finishes in his 17 wins as a professional, McDonald will look to hand Ligier his first stoppage loss of his career.

 

Hailing from Paris, France, Ligier turned pro in 2013 and has competed exclusively on the European circuit throughout his 10-fight career. Also known as “BadAzz,” the 31-year-old has finished his opponent in five out of eight opportunities, amounting to an impressive finishing rate of 63%. Now making his debut with Bellator, Ligier formerly competed for BAMMA in 2014.

 

The Canadian-born Létourneau, a former UFC strawweight title challenger, carries an impressive track record of thrilling fights, highlighted by a world title contest against former champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk. Now, moving up to her more natural weight class, the 34-year-old American Top Team product will make her debut for Bellator. On Dec. 15, “Trouble” will look to improve upon her eight victories as a professional, a tally that includes five finishes, with four coming by way of knockout.

 

Fresh off a victory over Colleen Schneider at Bellator 182 in August, the victory gave Jackson five wins in a row, including four stoppages. Jackson hasn’t lost since May of 2013, a period which also included a run on reality television show The Ultimate Fighter season 23. Hailing from Lostwithiel, Cornwall, England, Jackson will have the home crowd to her advantage at Bellator 191.

 

Complete Bellator 191: McDonald vs. Ligier Fight Card:

Bantamweight Main Event: Michael McDonald (17-4) vs. Peter Ligier (8-1-1)

Women’s Flyweight Co-Main Event: Valerie Letourneau (8-6) vs. Kate Jackson (9-2-1)

Heavyweight Feature Bout: James Thompson (20-16, 1 NC) vs. Philip De Fries (13-6, 1 NC)

Lightweight Feature Bout: Jeremy Petley (11-8) vs. Lewis Monarch (9-2)

 

Preliminary Card:

Lightweight Preliminary Bout: Mohammad Yahya (3-1) vs. Ash Griffiths (4-4)

 

****

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO LIVE STREAM JAMES DEGALE & LEE SELBY WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOUTS SATURDAY DECEMBER 9 LIVE ON YOUTUBE AND FACEBOOK EXCLUSIVELY TO THE U.S. AUDIENCE

Leave a comment

SHOWTIME Remains The Only Network To Offer Live Boxing On Social Platforms In The U.S.

 

Live Coverage From London Includes DeGale vs. Caleb Truax And Selby vs. Eduardo Ramirez, Plus 175-Pound Prospect Anthony Yarde And The U.S. Introduction To Unbeaten Heavyweight Daniel Dubois

 

NEW YORK – November 29, 2017 – SHOWTIME Sports will live stream a world-class boxing event – including two world championship bouts – free to the U.S. audience on social media platforms Saturday, December 9 to close out the network’s industry-leading 2017 boxing schedule.  The digital-only offering will be exclusive in the U.S. on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page. 

 

IBF Super Middleweight World Champion James DeGale (23-1-1, 14 KOs) will headline as he defends his title against former world title challenger Caleb Truax (28-3-2, 18 KOs) in DeGale’s first fight since a thrilling bout with Badou Jack in a 168-pound world championship unification match last January on SHOWTIME. 

 

In the streaming co-feature, IBF Featherweight World Champion Lee Selby (20-1, 9 KOs) will take on undefeated contender Eduardo Ramirez (20-0-3, 7 KOs), while undefeated light heavyweight Anthony Yarde (13-0, 12 KOs) will face former world title challenger Nikola Sjekloca (32-4-1, 11 KOs).  The opening fight of the live stream will feature the U.S. introduction to 20-year-old undefeated heavyweight Daniel Dubois (5-0, 5 KOs) as he takes on former Anthony Joshua foe Dorian Darch (12-5-1, 1 KOs).

 

Live coverage, provided by BoxNation and BT Sport, will begin at approximately 2:50 p.m. ET/11:50 a.m. PT with U.K. sportscasters John Rawling and Richie Woodhall calling all the action.

 

SHOWTIME is the only network to offer live streaming coverage of boxing on social media platforms in the U.S., having first done so in 2016 with the presentation of two heavyweight world championship bouts live on YouTube. 

 

In 2017, SHOWTIME was the first network to offer live boxing on Twitter with Adrien Broner vs. Adrian Granados (February 18).  SHOWTIME also live streamed two other boxing events in 2017: super middleweights George Groves vs. Fedor Chudinov on May 27 and heavyweights Jarrell Miller vs. Gerald Washington on July 29. 

 

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Apple®, Roku®, Amazon, Google, Xbox One and Samsung. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, DirecTV Now, Sony PlayStation™ Vue and Amazon Channels. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel™, and offers Smithsonian Earth™ through SN Digital LLC. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

MOUNTAIN VALLEY WRESTLING ALUM TO MEET IN NEF MMA CAGE

Leave a comment

Lewiston, Maine (November 29, 2017) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to Lewiston on Saturday, February 3, 2018 with the fight promotion’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 32: Super Saturday.”  Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur flyweight bout to the card.  Ryan Burgess (2-2) will face Nate Boucher (2-1) at a fight weight of 125-pounds.

Ryan Burgess is wrestling royalty at his alma mater, Mountain Valley High School, in Rumford, Maine. Burgess is one of only four Mountain Valley wrestlers to ever win triple state crowns in wrestling. He amassed an amazing 151-23 overall high school record before graduating and turning his focus to mixed martial arts.  He is currently a member of Berserkers MMA based in Rumford.  Burgess is the former NEF amateur flyweight champion.  NEF 32 will see him return to the cage after a year’s absence.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity to get back in the cage,” said Burgess. “I’ve taken some time off to make proper adjustments and focus on my career that started not long before my last fight. I’m ready to take my belt back and right now only one guy stands in my way. It’s not every day you can go to an MMA fight and watch two men who saw each other grow up scrap. Come February 3rd, Nate, we will see what you’re made of.”

Nate Boucher began wrestling at five-years old and due to some off-the-mat issues, never achieved the high school statistics of his upcoming adversary, Burgess. However, Boucher’s wrestling skills were on full display back in August 2017at NEF 30 when he defeated Maine wrestling legend and four-time state champion Jeremiah Barkac (0-1) by first-round submission. Boucher, who grew-up admiring Burgess’ prowess on the mat, is anxious to test himself against such a decorated grappler and prove that his wrestling stands up against the best.  He will be looking to rebound from a split decision loss to Justin Witham (4-4) earlier this month in an unsuccessful bid for the vacant flyweight title.  It was a fight many in attendance felt Boucher had won.

“The disappointment of the decision going against me on November 3rd still stings,” said Boucher. “I’m confident that I beat Justin Witham that night, even though two of the three judges didn’t see it that way. So, I’m going to get right back on the horse—it’s what we do—and take on the guy that holds a win over Witham in Ryan Burgess. I grew-up watching Ryan wrestle. We’re from the same town and I know what he brings to the fight. I will be ready. I’m coming for my title and no one is going to get in my way.”

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 32: Super Saturday,” will see the company make its return to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine.  The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 3, 2018.  Tickets are on-sale now online at www.TheColisee.com.