All posts by FNU47

Undefeated welterweight prospect Boubacar Sylla training with Headbangers Boxing Team in Washington, DC

New York (August 31, 2017) -Undefeated welterweight prospect, Boubacar Sylla has moved his training camp to the famed Headbangers Boxing Club in our Nation’s capital of Washington, D.C.

The 23 year-old Sylla, who is managed by Split-T Management, and has established himself as a prospect to watch as he has raced out to a record of 7-0 with six knockouts.

Sylla of Cincinnati, Ohio has been working under the watchful eye of world class championship trainer Barry Hunter, and Sylla has been taking his game to the next the level.

With so many world class professionals that train in the same atmosphere, Sylla is expected to see major progress in his development.

“He is a good kid.  I think his foundation is pretty solid, and if led the right way he is going to be very good.” said Hunter.

“His height and size will pose a problem for many fighters.”

“I got the chance to spar with Lamont and Anthony Peterson, I feel like this is putting me on a new level. This is some serious stuff up here. There’s no room for shortcuts. Fighters get exposed real quick in this gym,” said Sylla
This is a place I always wanted to train at and I’m grateful to my managers and the coaching staff for making this possible.
I’ve known Coach Barry since I was young teenager so he welcomed the opportunity to spend some time with Boubacar.  His program is one of the best in the country and I’m pleased he’s opened his doors for us,” said Tim VanNewhouse of Split-T Management

Willie Monroe, Jr. Media Day Quotes, Pictures and Videos

   

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Philadelphia. Pa./Rochester, NY (Aug. 31, 2017) –  This past Tuesday at the Rochester Fight Factory, Willie Monroe, Jr. met a throng of media personel during his media day workout in advance of his September 16th showdown with WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders at the Copper Box Arena in London, England.
Monroe held court and analyzed many topics regarding the fight and his career as he gets ready for his 2nd world title opportunity.
Below are quotes, video interviews and images from the event, which included a visit from Rochester Deputy Mayor Cedric Alexander.
MONROE QUOTES:
“I am battle tested, and I have gone through this and gave a good account of myself against Golovkin. This time, I am going to enjoy the moment a little more. I am enjoying the process.”

“Nothing is given to you, so I have to go take it.”

“I give people from my city hope.”

“The one thing that Golovkin and Canelo need, I am going to get my hands on, so they will have to see me.”

“Saunders is a little mouthy. I am a humble guy. It has me motivated, and come September 16th, he will have heck to pay.”

“I want my rematch with Triple-G, but I think Canelo is the more skilled fighter. It will be a great fight. I appreciate both of them for fighting each other.”

“I might feel like boxing his ears off, or I may want to get him out of there.”

“My application to boxing, shows that I am strongrt then these guys.”
Willie Monroe, Jr roundtable interview
Willie Monroe, Jr roundtable interview
Willie Monroe, Jr 1 on 1 interview
Willie Monroe, Jr 1 on 1 interview


 
Images
For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing.

CHARLES LOOKS TO MAKE IT TWO IN A ROW TO START MMA CAREER

Portland, Maine (August 31, 2017) –New England Fights (NEF) will make its long-awaited debut in Portland onFriday, November 3, 2017 at Aura with “NEF 31: The Old Port.”  Earlier today, the fight promotion announced the addition of an amateur mixed-martial-arts bout to the card.  Carlton Charles (1-0) will take on Nate Evans (0-0) at a catchweight of 175-pounds.

Carlton Charles shocked the Maine MMA community earlier this month with his stunning first-round technical knockout of Josh Jones (2-1) at “NEF 30” in Bangor.  Jones had looked indestructible to that point, only needing 24-seconds to finish his first two opponents combined.  In turn, it took Charles only 23-seconds to polish off Jones in his amateur debut.  It was, indeed, one of the most impressive debuts in NEF history.

Charles’ athleticism comes as no surprise, however, to those who know him.  He excelled in football for Windham High School.  As an assistant coach, Charles later lead Windham to a Class A state championship.  He went on to play for the NCAA Division I University of Maine Black Bears.  Currently, Charles trains MMA with Charles Family Fighting alongside his older brother, and seven-fight NEF veteran, Nate Charles.

“I’m real excited about the opportunity to fight in Portland,” said Charles. “Not often have we seen MMA in Portland, so it’s definitely going to get a lot of attention. It’s a bit closer to home than Bangor was, so I feel like I’ll have a lot of support there. I hope to put on a good show and look to build on the success of my first fight. I know my opponent will be tough so I am training hard to be prepared.”

Nate Evans will be making his debut on November 3rd.  Like Charles, Evans’ background is in football.  He was a star quarterback for Sumter Central High School in Livingston, Alabama.  Also like Charles, Evans has begun training and combat sports and is hoping to make a successful transition from the gridiron to the MMA cage.

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 31: The Old Port,” will see the company debut in Portland, Maine at the brand new, state-of-the-art venue Aura.  The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, November 3, 2017.  Tickets are on sale now at www.auramaine.com.

Leo Santa Cruz Defends Title Against Chris Avalos; Abner Mares Takes On Andres Gutierrez in Title Match as Pair of Featherweight Showdowns Set the Stage for  Santa Cruz vs. Mares Rematch

 
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions Live On FOX &
FOX Deportes from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif., On
Saturday, October 14
 
Tickets on Sale Now!
CARSON, CALIF. (August 30, 2017) – Sensational three-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz will defend his featherweight world title against Chris Avalos, while four-time world champion Abner Mares defends his 126-pound championship against once-beaten Andres Gutierrez at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. on a show presented by Premier Boxing Champions live on FOX and FOX Deportes on Saturday, October 14. Televised coverage begins at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.
If Santa Cruz and Mares win their respective matches, they have both agreed to terms to meet in a highly anticipated rematch for the WBA featherweight title in early 2018.  Santa Cruz won a hard-fought, narrow decision against Mares in a 2015 Fight of the Year candidate that saw the two men go toe-to-toe for 12 fast-paced rounds and combine for over 2,000 punches thrown.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Promotions and TGB Promotions, are priced at $30, $50, $75, $100, $150, and $250 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit AXS.com HERE.
“Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares are two of the best featherweight champions in boxing and to have them both fighting on the same card is a treat for boxing fans,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Against Avalos, Santa Cruz will have the opportunity to demonstrate why he’s considered one of the most skilled and durable fighters in the division and in his first defense since winning the title Mares can expect a rugged challenge from Gutierrez, who has only lost once in his career and by a close decision.”
“This is going to be a jam-packed afternoon of can’t-miss action for boxing fans in Southern California,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports. “StubHub Center brings out the best in fighters and I expect that to continue when Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares defend their titles against two hungry challengers in Chris Avalos and Andres Gutierrez. Ringstar Sports, along with TGB Promotions, are looking forward to putting together an exciting card full of future stars and compelling bouts for the great fans at StubHub Center and watching on FOX and FOX Deportes.”
Santa Cruz (33-1-1, 18 KOs) established himself as one of the top featherweights in the world in matches against Mares and Carl Frampton. Cruz lost a close decision to Frampton in 2016 and avenged the loss with a decision victory on Jan. 28 in Las Vegas. The 29-year-old was unbeaten in his first 33 pro fights on his way to world titles at 118, 122 and 126-pounds. With a victory over Avalos, Santa Cruz, who fights out of Los Angeles, will cement his hold on featherweight supremacy and stay on the path to that showdown with Mares.
“I’m excited to get back in the ring,” said Santa Cruz. “I’ve been working hard in camp and it’s great to be back in the gym. Chris Avalos is a tough contender who’s fought the best in the division. I love my fans and I’m planning on giving them a great show. I never overlook any opponent, but my plan is to put on a great performance, and then give fans more exciting fights against Abner Mares and Carl Frampton. I’m ready to prove I’m the best featherweight in the world.”
Fighting out of Lancaster, California, Avalos (27-5, 20 KOs) will be vying for a featherweight title for the first time. He came up short in his other world championship bout, losing the 122-pound world championship Carl Frampton via knockout in 2015. In his most recent bout, Avalos scored a TKO victory over Miguel Flores when the fight was stopped on cuts in the fifth round on July 18 in the main event on FS1 and FOX Deportes.
“I grew up with Leo Santa Cruz, so I know how to fight him,” said Avalos. “We did a lot of sparring wearing headgear as amateurs, and I put a hurting on him back in the day.  I’m not scared. I’m ready to fight. I know in the back of his mind, he’ll be thinking about that. I know I’m the underdog, but I’m not scared. I have a game plan and I know I’m going to win. I’ve fought two champions and lost to Carl Frampton and Oscar Valdez, but I’m a much better fighter and I’m more focused now than I was for those fights.  I’ve got the opportunity I’ve been waiting for and I’m going to take full advantage of it.”
Mares (30-2-1, 15 KOs) has fought some of the best competition between the 118-126 pound divisions and has claimed world titles in three different weight classes during his pro career. The 31-year-old climbed back into the championship ranks in December of 2016 by dropping featherweight Jesus Cuellar in a hard-fought, narrow decision victory.  Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and fighting out of Robert Garcia’s gym in Riverside, Calif., Mares has taken down former champions Daniel Ponce De Leon, Joseph Agbeko and Anselmo Moreno in a career that dates back to his time representing Mexico at the 2004 Olympics.
“I’m excited to be getting back in the ring on October 14 at StubHub in Los Angeles on FOX and FOX Deportes,” Mares said. “My fans will once again see the boxing style and strength that won me my WBA Featherweight title in December. I’m stronger, faster and committed to keeping that title and taking the others. My opponent is a strong challenger and we will bring an action filled fight for boxing fans. I am the people’s warrior and a boxer they can believe in. You don’t want to miss this fight.”
The 24-year-old Gutierrez (35-1-1, 25 KOs) suffered the first loss of his career when he dropped a narrow decision to tough veteran Cristian Mijares last year. That interrupted a 16-fight win streak that included nine knockouts and began after he fought to a draw with Jesus Ruiz in 2011. Gutierrez, of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, was set to fight Carl Frampton in a title eliminator in July, but the fight was called off when Gutierrez fell in his bathroom in Belfast, Ireland and broke his nose, lost two teeth and cut his chin.
“I am coming to destroy Abner Mares,” said Gutierrez. “I am in great shape and I’m very hungry to get in the ring and prove I’m one of the best in the world. I will be world champion and reach my dreams onOctober 14.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Ringstar, @TGBPromotions, @FOX, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/RingstarSports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Tri Star Boxing returns for “State Fair Boxing Showdown 2” September 15

Nashville, TN (August 30, 2017) – Fight night returns to Nashville when Tri Star Boxing presents “State Fair Boxing Showdown 2” Friday, September 15.
The six-fight card is in association with Blue Chair Bay Rum and takes place at the State Fairgrounds Sports Arena, located at 500 Wedgewood Lane in Nashville. Tickets from $25 can be purchased at tristarboxing.com/tickets.
In the six round main event, Nashville based Ghanaian Sena “African Assassin” Agbeko meets Johnson City, TN’s Brad Austin for the Tennessee Light Heavyweight championship. The heavy-handed Agbeko has an excellent 18-1 record with 17 wins by knockout and looks for a fourth straight victory since his lone setback. A veteran of 37 fights, Austin’s faced many tough opponents including Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, Yunieski Gonzalez, Ismayl Sillah, Isiah Thomas and Edwin Rodriguez among others.
 
Junior flyweight knockout king Edwin Reyes, 6-2 (5 KO’s), faces a foe to be announced in the eight round co-feature. Originally from Guatemala and now residing in Nashville, six of Reyes’ last seven bouts have taken place in the Volunteer State.
DeMarcus Rogers and Dedrick Bell will square off in a six rounder for the Tennessee State Welterweight Championship. Chattanooga’s Rogers owns a solid 11-3-1 professional ledger with four victories by KO but will have his hands full with his Memphis based foe. Bell’s deceptive ledger is 18-29-1 (9 KO’s) but the majority of his defeats came against championship level fighters.
22-year-old middleweight Winfred Harris Jr. of Detroit, MI looks to run his record to 15-0 when he battles Tennessee based Cuban Yolexcy Leiva over six rounds. On June 23, Harris took a quantum leap in competition and impressively outpointed notoriously tough Lanardo Tyner. Leiva, 5-6 (4 KO’s), is expected to give Harris all he can handle having previously faced quality foes in Marcus Willis, Frank Galarza, Boyd Melson, Thomas Lamanna and Kanat Islam.
Additional undercard bouts include debuting light heavyweight Maidel Sando versus Justin Brown (0-1), and 140 pounder Eduardo Aguiar fighting for the first time against William Ware (2-5).
It’s great to come back to Nashville,” said Tri Star Boxing’s Matt Young. “The city’s interest boxing has grown tremendously during the last few years. We’ve got a diverse and talented group of fighters on the card and it’s a great forum for them as well. The State Fair is a major event and we’re expecting a huge crowd on September 15.”

WOMAN WILL MAKE HISTORY AS YOUNGEST MMA COMPETITOR EVER IN MAINE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (August 30, 2017) –New England Fights (NEF) will make its long-awaited debut in Portland onFriday, November 3, 2017 at Aura with “NEF 31: The Old Port.”  Earlier today, the fight promotion announced the addition of an amateur mixed-martial-arts bout to the card.  Jayda “Lil Killah” Bailey (0-0) is scheduled to face Danae Dostie (0-0) in a female bantamweight contest.

Bailey, a senior at Hermon High School in Hermon, Maine, will turn 18 (the legal minimum age for one to compete in MMA in Maine) a mere eight days before the fight, thereby making her the youngest person in history to ever compete in a regulated MMA fight in the state.  She has trained in the martial arts since the age of four and has been a member of Young’s MMA in Bangor since age twelve.  Bailey also wrestles for Bucksport High School as Hermon does not have a team.  At the age of 15, she traveled to New Mexico to train at the world famous Jackson Wink MMA Academy where she worked with the likes of former UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion Holly Holm (11-3).  Bailey regularly competes in Jiu-Jitsu tournaments throughout the New England region.

“I’ve been wanting to fight for as long as I can remember,” said Bailey. “November 3rd will be the day I can showcase what I have, and begin my career with a bang.”

Standing opposite Bailey in the cage will be a fellow amateur debut in the form of Danae Dostie.  Dostie is a graduate of Fryeburg Academy High School in Fryeburg, Maine where she was a standout athlete on the track and field team.  She currently serves as a member of the military police with the Maine Army National Guard.  Dostie represents Kenney’s MMA of Lisbon, Maine.

“I’m very excited for my first fight in NEF,” said Dostie. “It will be fun to see how this fight goes. I know either way I will learn a lot.”

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 31: The Old Port,” will see the company debut in Portland, Maine at the brand new, state-of-the-art venue Aura.  The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, November 3, 2017.  Tickets are on sale now at www.auramaine.com.

Super Channel further increases commitment to boxing with acquisition of World Boxing Super Series

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
(Photo Courtesy of World Boxing Super Series)
 
EDMONTON, Canada (August 30, 2017)Super Channel is pleased to announce that it has acquired the rights in Canada to broadcast the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) from MP & Silva, a leading international media company that provides media rights, digital, technology and sponsorship services.
“Our acquisition of the World Boxing Super Series further reinforces our commitment to make exciting world-class boxing a regular staple of Super Channel SPORTS,” said Don McDonald, President and CEO for Super Channel. “It is a strategic step in our quest to establish Super Channel as the go-to destination for boxing fans looking for unique and exciting boxing action, at all levels.”
Frank Uddo, MP & Silva’s President, North America, commented: “We are delighted to work with Super Channel and World Boxing Super Series in Canada to help promote and distribute what we believe is a refreshingly premium international boxing competition. The new format, transparency, and potential match-ups should excite all boxing fans in Canada.”
 
World Boxing Super Series is a new revolutionary bracket-style elimination tournament featuring the world`s best boxers and a total of $50 million in prize money. The knockout format of the competition will see the best boxers ultimately compete for the Muhammad Ali Trophy, the greatest prize in boxing. The tournament is organized by newly-founded Comosa AG, a Swiss-registered company with principal owners Highlight Event & Entertainment, Modern Times Group and Team Sauerland. Comosa AG is working in partnership with boxers, promoters and managers around the world, and in alignment with the four major world boxing federations, to create a new global platform for the sport.
The tournament, the first of its kind which is planned to take place on an annual basis, will kick off on September 9. The inaugural season of the World Boxing Super Series will feature two weight classes, 16 fighters, and a total of 14 main events. An expert panel invited the world’s best boxers to compete, namely the top 15-ranked fighters of the four  major federations: WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO. In each weight class, eight boxers will battle it out in a bracket-style elimination tournament, with four quarterfinals (September & October 2017), two semifinals (January & February 2018) and one championship final (May 2018).
“I can’t think of a better home than Super Channel for the World Boxing Super Series” said Troy Wassill, Director of Programming, Domestic Distributors and Sports for Super Channel. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to have this exciting opener with Usyk vs Huck as the lead-in to the quarter finals, with eight consecutive weekends of top-flight action.”
 
Schedule for World Boxing Super Series 8 quarterfinal matches coming to Super Channel:
 
September 9, 2017 – Cruiserweight Quarter-Final:
Max-Schmeling-Halle, Berlin, Germany
WBO Cruiserweight World Championship 

 

Oleksandr “The Cat” Usyk (12-0, 10 KOs), Champion, Kiev, Ukraine

2-Time Ukrainian Olympian, 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist, The Ring #1
vs.
Marco “Kapt’n” Huck (40-4-1, 27 KOs), Challenger, Berlin, Germany by way of Serbia
Former WBO Cruiserweight World Champion, The Ring 7
September 16,2017 – Super Middleweight Quarter-Final:
Echo Arena, Liverpool, UK
WBC Super Middleweight Diamond Championship
Callum “Mundo” Smith (22-0, 17 KOs), Liverpool, Merseyside, UK – The Ring #5
vs.
Erik Skoglund (26-0, 12 KOs), Nykoping, Sweden
September 23, 2017 – Cruiserweight Quarter-Final: 
Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas, USA
WBA Cruiserweight World Championship
Yunier Dorticos (21-0, 20 KOs), Champion, Miami, Florida, USA by way of Cuba
vs.
Dmitry “The Russian Hammer” Kudryashov

(21-1, 21 KOs), Challenger, Volgodonsk, Russia
September 30, 2017 – Cruiserweight Quarter-Final: 
Riga Arena, Riga, Latvia
WBC Cruiserweight World Championship
Mairis Briedis (22-0, 18 KOs), Champion, Riga, Latvia – The Ring #4
vs.
Mike “The Rebel” Perez

(22-2-1, 14 KOs), Challenger, Cork, Ireland by way of Cuba
October 7, 2017 [A1] – Super Middleweight Quarter-Final:
Hanns-Martin-Schleyer Halle, Stuttgart, Germany
IBO Super Middleweight World Championship
Chris “Next Gen” Eubank Jr (25-1, 19 KOs), Champion, Brighton, Sussex, UK – The Ring #7
vs.
Avni Yildirim (16-0, 10 KOs), Challenger, Sivas, Turkey

October 14, 2017 [A2] – Super Middleweight Quarter-Final:
The SSE Arena, Wembley, London, United Kingdom

WBA Super Middleweight World Championship
“Saint” George Groves (26-3, 19 KOs), Champion, Hammersmith, London, UK – The Ring #3
vs.
Jamie Cox (24-0, 13 KOs), Swinton, Wiltshire, UK

TO BE CONFIRMED
Cruiserweight Quarter-Finals: 
TBA

IBF Cruiserweight World Championship
“Iron” Murat Gassiev (24-0, 17 KOs), Champion, Vladikavkaz, Russia – The Ring #2
vs.
Krzysztof “Diablo” Wlodarczyk (53-3-1, 37 KOs), Challenger, Piaseczno, Poland – The Ring #10
Former IBF & WBC Cruiserweight World Champion

Super Middleweight Quarter-Finals:
TBA

Juergen Braehmer (48,3 35 KOs), Schwerin, Mecklenburg-Vorpommem, Germany
Former WBO & WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion
vs.
Rob “Bravo” Brant

(22-0, 15 KOs), Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
All fights will also be available on Super Channel On Demand.
 
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Super Channel has recently aired major boxing events live like Brook vs. Spence Jr., Pacquiao-Horn, Eubank, Jr. vs. Abraham, Lomachenko vs.Marriaga and Crawford vs. Indongo.
To see all the World Boxing Super Series action live, as well as more exciting boxing to come, fight fans in Canada can contact their local cable provider to subscribe to Super Channel and all that it offers, including premium series, movies and much more, for as low as $9.95 per month.
Eight weekly bouts of world class boxing action
Saturday, Sept. 9 at 9 p.m. ET kickoff
Alexsandr Usyk vs Marco Huck cruiserweight quarterfinal bout,
Max Schmeling-Halle in Berlin
About Super Channel
 
Super Channelis a national premium pay television network, consisting of four HD channels, four SD channels, and Super Channel On Demand.
 
Super Channel’s mission is to entertain and engage Canadian audiences by providing a unique and exclusive entertainment experience.  With a core foundation of integrity and accountability, we dedicate ourselves to implementing innovative programming strategies and unparalleled team work that provides viewers with exceptional value and variety.
 
Super Channel is owned by Allarco Entertainment 2008 Inc., an Edmonton-based media company.
 
Super Channel is currently available on Bell TV, Shaw Direct, Rogers Anyplace TV, Shaw Cable, Cogeco Cable, Access Communications, Bell Alliant TV, Source Cable, SaskTel, MTS, Novus, EastLink, TELUS, Videotron, Westman Communications and other regional providers.
 
Connect with Super Channel:
Twitter: @SCSportsTV
Instagram: @SuperChannelTV
Facebook: /SuperChannel

THREE 154-POUND WORLD CHAMPIONS DEFEND IN HIGH STAKES SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® TRIPLEHEADERSATURDAY, OCTOBER 14 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®FROM  BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

 
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions & Headlined by
 Erislandy Lara Defending Title Against Unbeaten Terrell Gausha; Also Features Unbeaten Champion Jermell Charlo Against Top Challenger Erickson Lubin, and Jarrett Hurd in First Defense Against Former World Champion Austin Trout
 
Tickets Go On Sale Tomorrow, August 31 at 10 a.m. ET
BROOKLYN (Aug. 30, 2017) – A trio of 154-pound world champions will defend their titles as part of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader headlined by Erislandy Lara defending against undefeated Terrell Gausha, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions on Saturday, October 14 live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.
The card, promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, will feature four undefeated 154-pound boxers and will pave the way for an undisputed king of the 154-pound division.
Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (24-2-2, 14 KOs), generally recognized as the best boxer in the super welterweight division and its longest reigning champion, will defend his title against undefeated 2012 U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha (20-0, 9 KOs).
In the co-main event, hard-hitting unbeaten champion Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo (29-0, 14 KOs) takes on top contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin (18-0, 13 KOs), while “Swift” Jarrett Hurd (20-0, 14 KOs) will make his first title defense against tough former world champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout (30-3, 17 KOs).
“On October 14 at Barclays Center, three world champions will be defending their belts, on SHOWTIME, in a night of tremendous super welterweight action,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Long reigning Cuban Erislandy Lara takes on undefeated Olympian Terrell Gausha and newly crowned Jarrett Hurd faces respected former world champion Austin Trout. This card also features one of the best matchups that can be made between two undefeated fighters, champion Jermell Charlo and young sensation Erickson Lubin.”
“This is a blockbuster card for boxing fans,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The 154-pound division is full of talent and this card is loaded with the best champions and top-ranked contenders in the division. The guy who will be the eventual king of the division is fighting on this show and the fans will be treated to matches that will determine who that unified champion will be.”
Tickets to the event will go on sale on tomorrow, August 31 at 10 a.m. ET and start at $50 (not including applicable fees). 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 starting Friday, September 1 at noon ET. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
“We are thrilled to continue our best year yet of BROOKLYN BOXING with our fifth major boxing event of 2017,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. “We always aim to deliver fight fans an evening packed with top-notch matchups from start to finish, and this card certainly does that.”
Lara, a 34-year-old Cuban southpaw, owns victories over Trout, Alfredo Angulo and a slew of former champions and top contenders in addition to a controversial split decision loss to Canelo Alvarez on the way to cementing his credentials as the top boxer in the division. Lara will make the seventh defense of his world title as he continues to train with renowned trainer Ronnie Shields.
“I’m very excited to be making another title defense back on SHOWTIME headlining a great tripleheader,” said Lara. “This is an interesting fight versus an undefeated U.S. Olympian in Terrell Gausha. I know he will be ready because it’s his opportunity to beat the best fighter in the division and become a champion. But come fight night, he will quickly realize and know why I’m the consensus No. 1 super welterweight in the world.  After this performance, I look forward to, one-by-one, adding a WBC and IBF title to my collection.”
The 29-year-old Gausha, of Cleveland, Ohio, earned a shot at the world title with solid victories in his last two matches. He won a hard-fought decision over Steven Martinez last August and followed it up with another impressive victory over Luis Hernandez on Feb. 10.  Lara figures to be his toughest battle in his pro career that dates back to 2012.
I’ve been talking about this since I was a three-year-old watching Muhammad Ali on television,” said Gausha. “I’m here now and blessed for this opportunity. Lara’s a tough fighter, champion and the best opponent I’ll fight on paper. He’s been in with the bigger names. But the better the opponent, the better I am, and I’m coming to dethrone him. He’s crafty, but the world hasn’t seen all that I can bring to the table. I’ll make adjustments on the fly and do things that I’ve never shown before. Seeing other Olympic team members win titles gives me motivation to earn the victory and the notoriety I’ve been looking for.”
Charlo of Houston, Texas will be making the second defense of his title, which he won by knockout victory over John Jackson on May 21, 2016. The 27-year-old Charlo successfully defended the title with a highlight reel knockout victory over fellow Texan Charles Hatley onApril 22 at Barclays Center. He and his twin brother, Jermall, both held world titles at 154-pounds, before Jermall relinquished his title to move up to 160 pounds. Charlo now trains in Dallas with Derrick James, trainer of world champion Errol Spence Jr.
“Lubin is young and hungry and I know he always comes to fight, but there’s a reason why I’m where I am in the sport,” said Charlo. “I’ve been through the trenches and I don’t plan to stop anytime soon. This is what boxing always needs — two young, undefeated fighters willing to risk their ‘0’. But I think it’s a little early for Lubin to step in the ring with me, and I plan on keeping my title. October 14 I’ll show everyone why I’m a world champion.”
Lubin, 21, is nicknamed “The Hammer” because of his power in both hands and his ability to bring a quick conclusion to every match. Lubin of Orlando, Fla., has picked up 10 victories since the beginning of 2015 including seven knockouts on his way to contender status. Lubin most recently scored a sensational knockout of Jorge Cota in a title eliminator in March at Barclays Center.
“This is a fight for the fans,” said Lubin. “You have an undefeated champion against an undefeated Prospect of the Year. I’m very excited to be fighting for the belt and it’s truly been a dream of mine ever since I first got into boxing. Come fight night, Charlo will either give it to me or I’m going to rip the belt out of his hands. Many fans and reporters have said that he’s one of the best, and that will make it even sweeter. My mentality will be to seek and destroy, so everyone tune-in to SHOWTIME on October 14, you will witness boxing’s new superstar!”
Hurd, 26, will be making the first defense of the title that he won with a KO victory over Tony Harrison on Feb. 25. Fighting out of Accokeek, Maryland, Hurd soared up the rankings with stoppage victories over previously unbeaten fighters Frank Galarza and Oscar Molina at Barclays Center plus veteran Jo Jo Dan.
“I got a Trout to catch,” said Hurd. “His losses have all been to top champions Canelo Alvarez, Erislandy Lara and Jermall Charlo. But I’m on a streak of six straight knockouts and Trout has never been stopped, so I’m looking for the stoppage to make a statement that the other fighters couldn’t make. This is definitely my toughest fight, and I didn’t have to take it since it’s a voluntary defense. But I wanted this fight to stop Austin Trout, proving to the fans and people in general I’m the real deal and a true champion.”
Trout, a 31-year-old southpaw from Las Cruces, New Mexico, has faced some of the top 154-pound boxers in the division. He defeated Miguel Cotto in New York to win a title in 2012 and has close losses to Canelo Alvarez and Lara on his resume. In his most recent attempt at winning the title, Trout gave Jermall Charlo perhaps the toughest test of his career after looking impressive in four straight victories leading up to the challenge.
‘What a blessing it is to have this opportunity at a world title shot,” said Trout. “I want to thank everyone who has been in my corner to help get me career defining fights. It’s refreshing to see young champions showing heart and testing their skill with the best in the game. With thatsaid, salute to Hurd for allowing this fight to go through.”
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Caleb Plant to Visit Sunrise Children’s Hospital in Honor of Daughter Alia


   
LAS VEGAS, NV (August 29, 2017) – As he awaits his first televised bout on Showtime, taking place at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on September 8, unbeaten super-middleweight contender (WBA #7 and IBF #11), Caleb “Sweethands” Plant (15-0, 10 KOs), is going to be giving back to the community of Las Vegas.  Plant will be visiting kids at the Sunrise Children’s Hospital, in Las Vegas, in honor of his daughter, Alia, who passed away in January 2015 from an unknown medical condition at 19-months-old.
The visit will take place on the pediatric units (Pediatrics and PICU) at Sunrise Children’s Hospital with 30-40 kids expected to be in attendance. Special thanks to sponsors Ringside, World Boxing Council (WBC), Premier Boxing Champions (PBC), and Showtime, for donating gifts to all the children.
WHO:       Undefeated contender, Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and the children of Sunrise Children’s Hospital
WHAT:     Meet and greet with world ranked contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant
WHY:       To support the children and what they are going through while honoring Caleb’s daughter, Alia. In addition, bringing awareness to the Sunrise Children’s Hospital and their services.
WHERE:  Sunrise Children’s Hospital (Meet in Children’s Hospital Lobby)
                 3186 S. Maryland Pkwy
                 Las Vegas, NV 89109
                 Office: 702-731-8288
 
WHEN:     August 31, 2017
                 2:00 – 3:00 P.M.
PLEASE RSVP BY EMAILING BOXINGPUBLICIST@AOL.COM

Mercedes Vazquez-Simmons wins the prestigious Lo Mejor de lo Nuestro Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rochester, NY (August 29, 2017) – Promoter Mercedes Vazquez-Simmons is the recipient of the Lo Mejor de lo Nuestro Award.
The award, which is presented by the Ibero American Action League, is given to an individual who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both community and the community at large for her contributions, leadership skills and ability to work well with all individuals and groups in her hometown of Rochester, New York.
Ms, Simmons was recognized for her Pretty Girl Promotions, what it has meant to the city of Rochester ans her ability to work with members of the community from various backgrounds and professions.
Receiving the award ” Lo Mejor de Lo Nuestro” is quite an honor . We’re honored and thankful,”said Vazquez-Simmons.  “We at PrettyGirl Promotions believe community involvement  is critical particularly our engagement with inner city youth.”
A quote we live by : “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”- Muhammad Ali
Simmons will receive her award at the 49th Annual luncheon on Thursday, October 12th at the Joseph A, Floreano Convention Center from 12-1:30 PM.