All posts by FNU47

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

NEW CHAMPIONS CROWNED, MAIN EVENT THRILLS AS NEF 31 SELLS OUT AURA FOR PORTLAND DEBUT

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (November 3, 2017) – New England Fights (NEF) made its long-awaited debut in Portland, Maine on Saturday night before a sold-out crowd at Aura.

In the main event of the evening, hometown favorite Paul Gorman (11-9) took on James Blair (5-2) in a 130-pound catchweight contest.  The crowd was on the edge of its collective seat for a thrilling three-round war that will be a definite “fight of the year” candidate for 2017.  Gorman pulled off the unanimous decision on the judges’ scorecards.

The ever-popular John “First Class” Raio (3-8) returned to the NEF cage after a three-year retirement.  Raio faced a game Zenon Herrera (0-6) and came out with the win in the third round when Herrera tapped out to a guillotine choke.

On the amateur side of the card, three new champions were crowned.  Terrance Jean-Jacques (3-0) became the new NEF Amateur Heavyweight Champion with a unanimous decision victory over defending champion Nick Gulliver (4-1).  Justin Witham (4-4) is the new flyweight titleholder after defeating Nate Boucher (2-1) by split decision.  Hilarie Rose (5-3) made history as the first women’s champion in promotion history by capturing the strawweight title against Alex Walker (4-2).

Two milestones were set early in the night as Jayda Bailey (1-0) became the youngest fighter to ever emerge victorious in the NEF cage, while Garry Carr (1-0) took the honor of the oldest fighter to ever win in the NEF cage.  Bailey turned 18 just eight days prior to the event.  Carr is 56 years young.

In addition to an evening of fights, fans were able to meet special guest Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza (24-5).  Souza is currently the number-four ranked middleweight in the UFC.

The results from Portland, Maine:

PROFESSIONAL

Paul Gorman def. James Blair via unanimous decision

John Raio def. Zenon Herrera via guillotine, round 3

AMATEUR

Hilarie Rose def. Alex Walker via TKO, round 1

Justin Witham def. Nate Boucher via split decision

Terrance Jean-Jacques def. Nick Gulliver via unanimous decision

Carl Langston def. Henry Clark via unanimous decision

Mohammed al Kinani def. Phil Pearson via KO, round 1

Isaac Therrien def. Chad Weymouth via TKO, round 1

Francesca Morabito def. Carol Linn Powell via unanimous decision

Emmett Huber def. Will McCall via guillotine, round 1

Bill Cole def. Nathan Pete via rear-naked choke, round 2

Garry Carr def. David Hart via rear-naked choke, round 1

Mark Gardner def. Carlton Charles via TKO, round 2

Sarah Matulis def. Chelsea Elizabeth via TKO, round 1

Jayda Bailey def. Danae Dostie via TKO, round 1

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

 Salita Signs Co-Promotional Deal with Russian Heavyweight KO Artist Apti Davtaev

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Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions proudly announces the signing of Russian heavyweight prospect Apti Davtaev (13-0-1, 13 KOs) to a co-promotional agreement, in association with KA promotions and Kazbek Aslambekov.
Already the promoter of top heavyweight contender Jarrell Miller, Salita says that the 6′ 5″ KO artist Davtaev has strong potential to also rise to the top of the big man’s division.
“The heavyweights are once again infused with lots of talent, and Aptis’ punching power and size will make him a real threat to the best in the division,” said Salita. “I am very happy to team up with and work together with KA promotions and Kazbek Aslambekov in progressing Apti to the heavyweight world title.”
The heavy-handed 28-year-old Davtaev hails from Kurchaloi, Russia, and is trained by Hampasha Magomedov in the city of Grozny in the Ahmat Boxing Club. A relentless pressure fighter, he won the WBC Slovenian title in just his tenth pro fight.
The goal, he says is to fight in North America and enter the world stage.
“My goal is to become the heavyweight champion of the world,” said Davtaev. “I am very confident that I will accomplish this goal with Salita Promotions and Kazbek Aslambekov. Professional boxing is on a high level, especially in my weight class, in the USA, so that is where I want to be.”
“I am very happy about our working relationship with Salita Promotions,” said Aslambekov. “It’s a company that is shown great results and fast growth in the boxing world.  I am very impressed with the work that they have done for their various fighters the proper tools and strategic guidance quickly elevates the boxers they work with.”
Salita says his newest heavyweight will be getting the preparations necessary to become a star in boxing.
“We will bring Apti to our training base in the US, where he will get world-class training
and continue his development as a fighter,” continued Salita. “I am proud to be working with him and his team.”

Davtaev is scheduled to fight November 20, in a 10-round fight in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and then will be travelling to the US to continue his training for his first fight in North America.
M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

Damir Ismagulov vs. Rogerio Karranca M-1 Challenge 85 Super Fight

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Giga Kukhalashvili vs. Stephan Puetz in co-feature
Nov. 10 at Olympic Stadium in Moscow, Russia
 Damir Ismagulov (R) is the M-1 Challenge 85 headliner
SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (November 2, 2017) – The stars will be out November 10at M-1 Challenge 85, featuring M-1 Challenge lightweight champion Damir Ismagulov, at Olympic Stadium in Moscow, Russia.
M-1 Challenge 85 will be streamed live from Moscow in high definition onwww.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 85 is a true international event with representatives of 10 different countries: Russia, USA, Brazil, Germany, Kazakhstan, Croatia, Georgia, Switzerland, Ukraine and Spain.
Ismagulov (12-2-0, M-1: 7-1-0), fighting out of Kazakhstan, captured his title this past May at M-1 Challenge 78, stopping Maxim Divnich (12-2-0) via punches in round four. Ismagulov is riding a seven-fight win streak into this non-title, main event fight against Brazilian challenger Rogerio Karranca (13-2-0), who will be making his M-1 Global debut.
Georgian light heavyweight Giga Kukhalashvili (8-3-0, M-1: 1-0-0) steps up in class to take on former M-1 Challenge light heavyweight champion Stephan “T-800” Puetz (15-3-0, M-1: 6-2-0, of Germany.
  Stephan Puetz (R) will try to position himself for another title shot
Other main card matches are American featherweight Nate “The Train” Landwehr(9-2-0, M-1: 1-0-0) vs. Russian Viktor Kolesnik (11-2-1, (M-1: 2-0-1), Abubakar Mestoev vs. Alexey “Ataman” Makhno (16-5-0, M-1: 4-2-0) in battle of Russian lightweights, and Kazakhstan bantamweight Arman Ashimov (6-2-1, M-1: 1-0-0) vs.Rodrigo “Bad Boy” Melonio (16-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), of Brazil.
The loaded preliminary card has seven fights: Russian lightweight and former M-1 Challenge lightweight champion Divnich (13-2-0, M-1: 7-3-0) vs. Russian Ruslan Rakhmonkulov (10-1-1, M-1: 0-0-0), Russian middleweight Vitaliy Slipenko (8-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0) vs. Croatian Kristijan Perak (9-3-2, M-1: 0-2-2), Georgian middleweightVazha Tsiptauri (2-1-0, M-1 0-0-0) vs. Frederico Gutzwiller (3-2-0, M-1: 1-0-0), of Switzerland, American bantamweight “The Finisher” Josh Rettinghouse (15-4-0, M-1: 3-0-0) vs. Ukrainian Alexander Lunga (21-10-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Ukrainian featherweightAndrey “Iron” Lezhnev (16-7-0, M-1: 4-3-0) vs. Russian Ilfat Amirov (9-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Spanish bantamweight Oscar Suarez (3-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0) vs. Russian Sergey Klyuev (4-0-0, M-1: 2-0-0), and Russian heavyweight Victor “Tatra” Trushnov (2-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0) vs. fellow countryman Maxim Yakobyuk (1-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0).
INFORMATION:

www.M1Global.tv

Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
@VFinkelchtein
@M1Global
Facebook:
 
M-1 CHALLENGE EVENT CALENDAR:
 
M-1 Challenge 85: November 10, 2017 in Moscow, Russia
boxing

Thomas LaManna to take on Samuel Amoako for LBF Intercontinental Welterweight title on Saturday, November 18th at The Claridge in Atlantic City

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Devin Haney takes on Taiwo Ali Sulaimon in special attraction

Raymond Serrano battles Enver Halili in 10-round co-feature

Adam Lopez fights Jorge Diaz

Plus undefeated Alvin Vermall & Yurik Mamedov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Atlantic City, NJ (November 2, 2017)–Tough veteran Samuel Amoako steps in for Tomas Mendez to fight popular welterweight contender Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna in a scheduled ten-round bout for the LBF Intercontinental welterweight title on Saturday, November 18th at The Claridge in Atlantic City.
The bout will headline a nine-bout card promoted by Rising Promotions, Greg Cohen Promotions, Devin Haney Promotions & Winner Take All Productions.
“This is boxing and changes always happen. I was looking forward to fighting Mendez but due to visa issues, that killed the fight. I’m not taking Amoako lightly because any fighter is dangerous in their own way. Amoako has fought a lot of good fighters and only been stopped twice in his career. Wasn’t my favorite choice as opponent but Amoako was the first to sign contract last minute,” said LaManna.
Amoako of Silver Spring, Maryland via Accra, Ghana, has a record of 23-16 with 17 knockouts.

The 33 year-old Amoako is a 12 year-veteran and has wins over Albert Mensah (9-2-1) & Richard Amenfu (9-2).  Amoako has faced some of the best fighters in the world in former world champion Gavin Rees as well as former world title challengers Miguel Roman, Sharif Bogere.  Bogere has also shared the ring with top contenders Jonathan Maicelo, Tony Luis and Mike Reed.

Amoako has only been stopped twice, and this will be his 14th fight in the last 21 months.  He is coming off a decision loss to Skender Halili on October 21st in Newark, New Jersey.
In an eight-round junior welterweight special attraction, Devin Haney (17-0, 14 KOs) of Las Vegas battles Taiwo Ali Sulaimon (21-5-1, 16 KOs) of Lagos, Nigeria.
In the ten-round co-feature, Raymond Serrano (23-4, 10 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight Enver Halili (10-0, 3 KOs) of Bronx, NY in a welterweight bout.
In an eight-round battle for the WBC Fecarbox Super Bantamweight title, Adam Lopez (16-1-2, 8 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas takes on Jorge Diaz (18-5-1, 10 KOs) of New Brunswick, NJ.
In an six-round junior middleweight bout fights Jeff Lentz (5-1, 1 KO) of Bellmar, NJ takes on an opponent to be named.
In a six-round welterweight bout, Yurik Mamedov (7-0, 3 KOs) of Brooklyn, NY battles Vincent Floyd (3-3-1, 2 Kos) of Philadelphia in a welterweight contest.
Alvin Vermall, Jr. (13-0-1, 11 KOs) of Catskills, NY will take on an opponent ti be named in a six-round cruiserweight bout.

Sidell Blocker (1-9-1) of Pleasantville, NJ will fight a rematch with Tomas Romain (4-1) of Brooklyn, NY in a lightweight bout.

 
Jonathan Arroyo of New York will make his pro debut against Steve Moore (0-1) of Orange, NJ in a welterweight bout.
Tickets for the November 18th fight card at The Claridge are priced at $200, $125, $80 and $55 (General Admission) and can be purchased at www.RisingBoxingPromotions.com
    
boxing, women's boxing

Selina Barrios Spooks Her Opponent, Zarina Tsoloyeva Backs Out of Fight

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RAYNE, LA (November 2, 2017) – Two days after Halloween, unbeaten female sensation, lightweight Selina “Aztec Queen” Barrios (2-0, 1 KO), has spooked her opponent, Zarina Tsoloyeva (Pro Debut) from Zhaksy, Kazakhstan, as she backed out of their scheduled 4-round bout, set to take place today at The Rayne Civic Center in Louisiana.  Tsoloyeva refused to step on the scale at yesterdays weigh-in.
Selina Barrios is one of the most avoided female fighters in the United States and now Kazakhstan.  Ebony Jones from Alabama, Alpha Patricia Lopez from Mexico, and now Zarina Tsoloyeva from Kazakhstan, all signed to fight Selina but backed out to fight her at the last minute.  Jones and Lopez were no shows, while Tsoloyeva who is from the distant land of Kazakhstan, showed up to the weigh-in, but declined to step on the scale.
“I was willing to fight Zarina Tsoloyeva, the decorated amateur from Kazakhstan, but she pulled out at the last minute, like my last two opponents.” said Selina Barrios from San Antonio. “It’s been very difficult getting opponents to fight me.  I’ve always said, I don’t care who they put in front of me, I’ll fight anyone.  I have that much confidence in my skills.  I have no choice but to move on, but I’m respectfully sending a message to everyone in the lightweight and super-lightweight divisions, I’m not going anywhere, eventually you will all have to fight me.”
Nothing will derail Selina as she stays positive and continues to work hard, looking for that opportunity to challenge the best the lightweight and super-lightweight divisions has to offer. Selina’s handlers must now move her to six and eight round bouts right away, to chip away and get to a championship fight as she gains more ring experience as a professional.
“Looking at all the top lightweights and super-lightweights, I predict Selina will fight for a world championship before her tenth fight,” said advisor Kerry Daigle. “Possibly by fight number seven or eight.  We’re going to move her into six and eight rounders moving forward.  I’m already in talks with the sanctioning bodies to get her ranked.”
“If no one wants to fight me, then I’m calling out all the name fighters in the division,” Selina Barrios continued. “Amanda Serrano, Mikaela Mayer, Jessica McCaskill and of course, Katie Taylor, I’m willing to fight you guys anytime, anywhere.  Like I said, at some point, you will all have to fight me.”
boxing

Anthony “Juice” Young headlines on Saturday, December 16th at The Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City

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Heavyweight contender Chazz Witherspoon in action

Gabriel Pham, Alicia Ashley, Prince Badi Ajamu, Terrance Cauthen & Ikram Kerwat in separate bouts

Plus undefeated Vidal Rivera and Mike Hilton
For Immediate Release
Atlantic City, New Jersey (November 2, 2017)–Local favorite Anthony “Juice” Young will headline a special night of action dubbed “Boardwalk Brawls 2” on Saturday, December 16th at The Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City.
The show is promoted by Mis Downing Promotions.
Young of Atlantic City has a record of 18-2 with six knockouts, and is riding a seven fight winning streak.
The 29 year-old Young is a six-year veteran who has garnered wins over Jose Javier Calderon (4-1), and is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over 56-fight veteran Carlos Winston Velasquez on August 19th at The Claridge.
This will be Young’s 4th consecutive start at The Claridge and 12th overall fight in his hometown of Atlantic City.
Young’s opponent in the scheduled ten-round bout will be announced shortly.
Appearing the eight-round heavyweight co-feature will be Heavyweight Chazz Witherspoon.  
Witherspoon of Paulsboro, New Jersey has a record of 36-3 with 28 knockouts.
The 36 year-old Witherspoon is a 13-year-professional has fought some of the top fighters in the Heavyweight division.
He has wins over Yul Witherspoon (1-0), Michael Alexander (11-0), Talmidge Griffis (24-6-3), Jonathan Haggler (18-1), Adam Richards (21-1), Ty Cobb (14-2), Nick Guivas (11-2-2) and Michael Marrone (21-5).
Witherspoon has stopped his last six foes, and is coming off a 4th round stoppage over Carlos Sandoval on October 1, 2016 in Trenton, New Jersey.
Witherspoon’s opponent will be announced shortly.
An all-star lineup makes up an exciting undercard.

In eight-round bouts:

Former world Super Bantamweight champion Alicia Ashley (24-11-1, 4 KOs) of Jamaica will fight Kristie Simmons (8-3, 2 KOs) of Denver, Colorado.
In six-round bouts:
Gabriel Pham (9-1, 4 KOs) of Atlantic City will take on an opponent to be named in a super middleweight bout.

Prince Badi Ajamu (28-3-1, 15 KOs) of Camden, NJ will take on an opponent to be named in a cruiserweight fight.

Former U.S. Olympian Terrance Cauthen (36-8, 9 KOs) of Trenton, NJ will take on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight bout.

In four-round bouts:

Vidal Rivera (7-0, 4 KOs) of Camden, NJ will take on an opponent to be named in a featherweight bout.
Mike Hilton (7-0, 6 KOs) of Trenton, NJ will take on an opponent to be named in a cruiserweight bout.

Shadd Gamhour (5-0, 4 KOs) of Pensacola, FL will take on an opponent to be named in a middleweight tussle.

Ikram Kerwat (8-1, 5 KOs) of Beja, Tunisia will take on an opponent to be named in a lightweight scrap.

Tickets are priced at $150, $120, $85 & $60 and can be purchased  at The Claridge Hotel or by calling 609-712-3854 or email mreglus12@aol.com
boxing

Prince Ranch Boxing Occupies Mexico; Sends Six Undefeated Fighters to Aguascalientes

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SUGAR PROMOTIONS PRESENTS
“NEW BLOOD”
LAS VEGAS, NV (November 2, 2017) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s (PRB) undefeated fighters, super-flyweight Damien “Sugar” Vazquez (12-0, 6 KOs), super-featherweight Edwing Davila (16-0, 9 KOs), featherweight Isaac Avelar (13-0, 8 KOs), featherweight Victor Pasillas (11-0, 4 KOs), super-lightweight Blair Cobbs (7-0, 4 KOs), and light-heavyweight Kye Brooks (1-0, 1 KO), all make their way back to the ring on December 2, 2017, at the Palenque de la Feria in Aguascalientes, Mexico.  In addition, super welterweight Daniel Biaz (10-1, 5 KOs) and female flyweight Mayran Salazar (6-2), will be featured on the card.
Sugar Promotions LLC, will promote the 8-fight card titled “New Blood”, with Issac “Canelito” Avelar fighting for the WBC FECOMBOX Featherweight title in the 10-round main-event.  Damien “Sugar” Vazquez will be fighting in the 8-round co-main event.  All fighters will have opponents TBA.
“Sugar Promotions is doing a fantastic job with their promotional company in Aguascalientes, Mexico.” said Greg Hannely, President of Prince Ranch Boxing. “All my fighters will stay busy as we move forward in Mexico and the United States.  I’m signing top talent, with the vision of breeding world champions, and bringing them to the forefront.”
“Here in Aguascalientes, Mexico, Sugar Promotions will be promoting top level professional boxing throughout the entire city,” said president of Sugar Promotions Oscar Vazquez. “We have fighters from Mexico and the United States, all fighting on the same cards.  At some point, we will take our fighters to the States as well.  This is the second of many shows. We plan coming back once a month and it starts December 2nd.”
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SHOWTIME SPORTS® VIDEO CLIP HIGHLIGHTS FORMER HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION BERMANE STIVERNE AHEAD OF HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH

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Feature to air during SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®

Heavyweight Championship Nov. 4

 

“He took my title away from me. This is something I need back” – Bermane Stiverne

 

 

Photo Credit: SHOWTIME


Watch, View & Share Via YouTube: http://s.sho.com/2iRTWge

Download For Your Video Player: https://we.tl/0vUYWs2gDG

 

Video Restrictions: News outlets are cleared to use this clip on broadcast and digital platforms. Broadcast outlets must verbally mention that Wilder-Stiverne airs LIVE on SHOWTIME on November 4. Digital outlets must reference Wilder-Stiverne, November 4 and LIVE on SHOWTIME in the accompanying copy.

 

WHAT: SHOWTIME Sports today released an advanced look at a video feature of former heavyweight world champion Bermane Stiverneas he prepares to take on reigning champion Deontay Wilder in an attempt to recapture his WBC Heavyweight title.

 

The Heavyweight Championship rematch headlines the November 4 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, a Premier Boxing Champions event LIVE on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

The feature will air in its entirety on Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast.

 

“This is the fight that everyday runs through my mind and it bothers me,” said Stiverne. “I don’t think I lost the fight because he was better than me. I lost the fight because of health problems.”

 

Looking ahead to Saturday night’s world title rematch, Stiverne explained how there is no love lost between the two heavyweights. “The matter between he and I is very personal,” Stiverne admitted. “He took my title away from me. This is something I need back, but it’s so much more than that. I’ll make him feel my pain.”

 

amateur boxing, boxing

USA Boxing Alumni Association Open for Registration 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (November 2, 2017). – The newly created USA Boxing Alumni Association registration is officially open for those interested in becoming members.
The Alumni Association, which was created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, including boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans, will help connect generations of champions, as well as help inspire and give back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions inside and outside the ring.
“The Alumni Association will bring together former boxers, coaches and officials that have reached all levels of success in amateur boxing, as well as people who have a love for Olympic-style boxing,” commented Mike McAtee, USA Boxing Executive Director. “This association will help expand our grassroots and help create the future champions of USA Boxing and alumni members.”
Open to anyone possessing a love for the sport and looking to stay connected with amateur boxing, the Alumni Association members are granted access to a variety of special events that will be hosted by the Alumni Association, including the first annual USA boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.
The reception, which will honor and celebrate the five inaugural members of the Alumni Association Hall of Fame, will be held on December 8 in Salt Lake City in conjunction with the 2017 USA Boxing Elite and Youth National Championships & Junior and Prep Open. The five inductees include:
  • Muhammad Ali 
  • Tom Coulter 
  • Buddy Davis  
  • Evander Holyfield 
  • Roosevelt Sanders 
World-renowned CBS and Showtime announcer Al Bernstein will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the event.
“USA Boxing makes a positive difference in the lives of thousands and thousands of young people on a daily basis, and I am so honored to serve as emcee for the inaugural USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception. This new arm of USA Boxing will be a terrific addition to an already great organization,” Bernstein said. “I look forward to a great week.”
In addition to Bernstein’s role as emcee, many esteemed members of the USA Boxing alumni community are scheduled to attend the inaugural event, including: Michael Carbajal, BJ Flores, Larry Fullmer, Virgil Hill, Raul Marquez, Steve Smoger,Jesse Valdez, Micky Ward and Eddie Weichers.
When joining, which cost $40/year, new members will be given a t-shirt, keychain and e-wallet. For more information on the USA Boxing Alumni Association, please contact alumni@usaboxing.org or visit USABoxing.org
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @USABoxing
Instagram: @USABoxing
Facebook: /USABoxing
Inaugural USA Boxing Alumni Association

Hall of Fame Reception to be held Dec. 8 in Salt Lake City
ABOUT USA BOXING: The mission of USA Boxing shall be to enable United States’ athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence, develop character, support the sport of boxing, and promote and grow Olympic style boxing in the United States. The responsibility of USA Boxing is not only to produce Olympic gold, but also oversee every aspect of amateur boxing in the United States.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Deontay Wilder vs. Bermane Stiverne Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Heavyweight World Title Showdown Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader Saturday, November 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
(Photos include Times Square Photo-op with Wilder)
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (November 2, 2017) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder and former world champion Bermane Stiverne went face-to-face and exchanged words onstage Thursday at the final press conference before they battle in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event this Saturday, November 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
 
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions, the event features former world championShawn Porter taking on Adrian Granados in a welterweight world title eliminator. The three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten Sergey Lipinets battling Japan’s Akihiro Kondo for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship.
Joining the fighters and press conference participants onstage was Hall of Fame Promoter Don King, who promotes Stiverne and predicted that his fighter would shock the world and deliver an upset on Saturday night.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and 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.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Edison Ballroom in Manhattan:
DEONTAY WILDER
“Stiverne was the only man to survive the ‘Alabama Slammer’ and avoid a knockout. When I knock him out, then nobody will be able to say they made it through against me. He was nothing but a lot of lumps and excuses after the first fight.
“It’s been a long road for me. I’ve had my ups and my downs. The ups I’ve celebrated, but the downs have hurt the most. It’s all led me to here. All I ever wanted to do is prove to the world that I am the best. I am the baddest. I hit the hardest. I am the most feared. My record speaks for itself.
“Winner takes all. I am a man of my word. We’ve heard Bermane Stiverne say these same things before. We’ve heard it all before. What happened the first time? Everybody knows. Hopefully he doesn’t get dehydrated this time.
“This just turned up into a whole other level. The ambulance better be ready. The medical teams better be ready. The referee better be ready. They better have that towel to be able to throw it in because every blow is going to mean something. This just got even more personal.
“There’s nothing different that he can bring to the table. He brought everything he could bring the first time. He brought all his tricks – all his power. There’s nothing he’s going to be able to do this time. The only thing he’s going to be able to do is pick his spot on the ground where he’s going to lay at.”
“I do my talking and my walking in that ring. That’s what it’s all about. That’s why we’re here. November 4 the truth with reveal itself. That’s when it counts. When Deontay Wilder speaks, I mean what I say. But I’m going to show you, instead of tell you, on Saturday night.
“This will be an electrifying fight. That belt isn’t going anywhere. I will unify the division. I will be the undefeated, undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.”
BERMANE STIVERNE
“Deontay Wilder has been trying to duck me. He’s been giving a lot of excuses about my career. He should be happy if I’ve been inactive. He should be jumping in the air. Everyone knows that means he’s scared. He knows what time it is.
“He already gave me his best. I had nothing last fight. But now I’m a very dangerous man. Everyone here knows what time it is.
“I feel great and I feel strong. There will be no excuses this time. I can guarantee you this. I’m 100 percent this time.
“Deontay said he fears for my life. Well, I don’t fear for his life. I’m going to do whatever it takes to grab that title. And I’ll walk away with a smile on my face.
“You caught me sleeping last time. Nobody is going to be sleeping this time. I’m going to be on you all night. It’s over for you.
“This is a fighter that I took him the longest rounds in any of his fights. He had never gone past seven or eight.
“He’s like a third round or fourth round knockout guy depending on the level of his opponent. Anyone that would be a decent or strong opponent, he’s not going to last. From rounds six through 12 he didn’t do much. Everything was in the first six.
“His last fights that I’ve watched, I haven’t seen any progress.
“Saturday, November 4 I will be two-time heavyweight champion of the world. No one can stop me. He can smile all he wants. But on Saturday I’m taking that belt home with me.”
SHAWN PORTER
“I’m glad to be back. I’m excited to fight once more before the year is done. This is really another tremendous fight card and I’m honored to be a part of it.
“I’m getting the seats warm this time before Deontay comes to close the show. You’re definitely going to want to be paying attention to this fight.
“I wanted to get back in the ring. Adrian Granados was also looking for a fight and was willing to accept the fight. It’s as simple as that. I’m a boxer and my job is to compete against the best. Right now, he’s the best challenge that I have.
“This is a great matchup. This is really fan friendly action everyone is going to see. I know I’m facing an aggressive guy who is going to come at me with everything he’s got.
“I enjoy every bit about fighting at Barclays Center. The energy is always great in that building. The atmosphere is really unbelievable. I’m happy to fight there again.
“The respect that Granados and I have for each other, that’s what boxing is all about. It’s about getting in the ring and competing. We wanted someone that was going to come here and fight me. We didn’t want someone who was going to run or lay down. We want to close the year out in fantastic form, and the best way to do that is by facing Granados.”
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“I’m very grateful to be here and have this opportunity against Shawn Porter. I appreciate it and I thank him and his team. This is definitely going to be a great fight.
“I’m fighting for everyone back home and all the people that are with me every day. Everyone knows how dedicated we are and that will all come together on fight night.
“This is all about proving myself and showing that I belong with the best of the sport. I have to take an opportunity like this when it’s offered to me. There’s nothing to do now but get in the ring and get down to business.
“This is a tremendous opportunity. I’m coming to win, not lay down. I’m here to fight. We both have fan-friendly styles and may the best man win.”
SERGEY LIPINETS
“This is a dream come true for me. I had to work very hard and overcome a lot to get to this point. Now that I’m here, I want to give the fans a great fight.
“I’m going to go for the knockout and become a world champion. This is the thing that motivates me every day through this hard training camp.
“I am prepared for anything Kondo can bring to the ring. He has earned his right to fight for the title and I have to take him very seriously and be at my very best.”
AKIHIRO KONDO
“I’m going to do my best to win for all of my fans in Japan. I’m going to take this world title belt back home to Japan and I’m happy to have the support of my country.
“I’ve come a long way to get here. This is the mecca of boxing. I feel really relaxed and calm. This feels like a normal fight for me still.
“No matter what happens in this fight, I think that is going to come down to heart. I am determined not to lose in that area.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“This is a terrific card from top to bottom. I love this show. Dominic Breazeale vs. Eric Molina, Amanda Serrano a pound-for-pound champion, and two undefeated local kids Chris Colbert and Titus Williams, all featured on this card. The show is truly loaded with talent and stars.
“Nothing gets bigger than the defense of America’s only heavyweight championship. Deontay Wilder defending his title against Bermane Stiverne, the only man that Deontay has not been able to knockout.
“This is a dangerous fight. Stiverne is big, strong and he can punch. This is Christmas for him. He has nothing to lose. He can walk out of here with the heavyweight championship of the world.
“Shawn Porter is fighting against a real deserving challenger. Shawn is a champion with or without a belt, and Granados always makes great fights and he’s going to give it 120 percent.
“Kondo is a very accomplished fighter, but he’s going to have his hands full with Sergey LIpinets. Whenever LIpinets gets in the ring, someone gets hurt. I think he has a chance to go very far.”
DON KING, Hall of Fame Promoter
“I want to thank all of these young men up here who are fighting for the crown. Stiverne has something in store for Wilder on Saturday night that will be a shock. It’s going to be the Fight of the Year. Unquestionably.
“Deontay has never really met Bermane Stiverne, so I’m going to introduce them. It’s going to be a fantastic night of fighting at Barclays Center. You will have a tremendous upset on Saturday night when Bermane Stiverne knocks out Deontay Wilder.
“After this happens, we can have a rubber match. It will be an exciting time for me on Saturday night and the start of a ‘November to Remember.'”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“This weekend’s telecast will be the second weekend of heavyweight title fights on SHOWTIME. We all know these two faced each other in 2015, but neither fighter went home happy. Deontay was impressive but he didn’t get the knockout. Stiverne is the only blemish on Wilder’s perfect knockout streak. Ever since that fight, Bermane has been asking for the rematch. On Saturday both men will get their wish. Deontay can send a message to the rest of the division and Bermane gets a second chance at a world title
“The first time they fought, everyone saw it as Deontay’s toughest opponent. Out of 42 media members, 22 predicted Deontay to win and 20 picked Stiverne. This is an all-action heavyweight fight with America’s heavyweight world champion.
“Sometimes a big fight can suck up the attention from the co-featured fights on the card. Both of these opening bouts could have been a main event and would be a main event on any other network. Porter and Granados is an intriguing matchup of all action fighters and if you haven’t seen Sergey LIpinets fight, I urge you to turn on the TV early and get to the arena, because this will be an entertaining fight.
“By the end of the night we will have done 29 world title fights this year alone. There is no other network that could put on that many high quality fights. We look forward to closing the year on a strong note on Saturday night.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“This Saturday will be our last Brooklyn boxing event of the year. It’s been an incredible 2017. It started with Badou Jack vs. James DeGale, then in March the Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia fight, which was probably the biggest we ever had at the arena. It hit new marks that we hadn’t seen before. This summer we had the Mikey Garcia vs. Adrien Broner fight and we’ve also seen the Charlo brothers fight at Barclays Center in 2017 and become stars.
“It’s been a great year full of memorable moments and I couldn’t think of a better way to end the year than with Deontay on Saturday night. When Deontay defended his title at Barclays Center last year, it was the first heavyweight title fight in the borough of Brooklyn in 115 years and we’re excited to have him back.”
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