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boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

AMERICA’S YOUNGEST CHAMP GERVONTA DAVIS & NO. 1-RANKED CONTENDER LIAM WALSH MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL HIGHLIGHTS IN ADVANCE OF MAY 20 WORLD TITLE FIGHT ON SHOWTIME®

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NEW YORK – Gervonta Davis, America’s youngest world champion, and No. 1-ranked challenger Liam Walsh participated in an international media conference call on Wednesday in advance of their clash for Davis’ IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship on Saturday, May 20 on SHOWTIME from Copper Box Arena in London.  Davis vs. Walsh is part of a split-site, four-fight SHOWTME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast that begins at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.  In the main event, Gary Russell Jr. will make his second featherweight title defense and long-awaited homecoming against mandatory challenger Oscar Escandon live from MGM National Harbor just outside of Washington, D.C.

 

Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe and Hall of Fame boxing promoter Frank Warren also joined the call to talk about their fighters.

 

Here is what the principals had to say on Wednesday:

 

GERVONTA DAVIS

Thoughts on going to London to make his first title defense on foreign soil:

“I believe it was the right business move as far as getting me to the UK in my early career and giving the fans what they want to see.  I have a lot of UK fans after the [Jose] Pedraza fight so I think it’s a good change.  It’s good for me to fight in the UK.  I fought overseas when I was an amateur so now I’m going as a pro and I feel like it’s a great opportunity.

 

“I’m actually excited to fight in the UK.  I believe that I will have a crowd over there and I’m excited to put on a show for the UK fans.”

 

Have you watched Liam Walsh’s tapes? Do you think his style is sort of made to order for a fighter liked you?

“He’s a good fighter; I can’t take that away from him.  He’s my mandatory so I’m taking him seriously.  I’ve actually looked at a couple of his fights.  He’s a decent fighter, but I’m just on another level.  My mind, my skills, I’m on another level than what he’s saying and what his fans are saying too.”

 

What has it been like since you won the title?

“It’s been pretty good.  I’m actually staying level headed, staying focused.  Getting the world title is a step closer to where I want to be.  Having a belt is cool, but I’m trying to do more in the sport.  I want to be the next star of boxing.  I want to do more in the sport.  This is just one more step to me.”

 

Do you feel like you need to win by knockout?

“Of course.  I can’t rely on his mistakes, he’s capable of going down.”

 

On finishing camp with Floyd Mayweather in Vegas:

“When I got back to Vegas, Floyd Mayweather was hands on more than usual, working with me in the gym late nights.  I’m working extra hard.  Having him back in the gym gives me that extra push and has my mind on another level.

 

“Having him in my corner makes me feel like I have that chance.  I have one of the best in the business backing me.  It means a lot.  It makes me work harder.”

 

How has your experience growing up in inner-city Baltimore influenced you?

“Just growing up in that inner city, it gave me the hunger I have today.  My folks struggled.  I knew that when it was time for me to turn pro, it was time for me to help feed my family.  I’m ready to do big things in the sport of boxing and outside of the sport.

 

“I believe I have the youth right now. Right now I’m one of the youngest (world champions), and believe I have the youth right now.  I believe that as I continue to keep winning and crowning myself, a lot of young kids will look up to me and it will help get them on the right track.”

 

Going into this fight do you think Liam Walsh is your toughest opponent so far?

“I believe so.  I’ve fought a world champion.  He’s undefeated.  I don’t know, I have to see when I get in there.  On paper he might seem like a tough opponent.  I won’t know until I get in there and see what he brings to the table.”

 

Is there pressure to try and make statement against him and knock him out or wait to see if the knockout comes?

“I don’t think I have to make a statement by knocking him out.  I would rather beat him in 12 rounds.  We’re going to look for the knockout and if it comes, it comes.  But I would rather go on 12 rounds.”

 

Would you like to make a prediction?

“I’m coming out on top and keeping my world title.”

 

LIAM WALSH

Can you tell us what you think of Gervonta Davis?

“He certainly has potential and star quality – that was clear to see when he beat [Jose] Pedraza. But he has to come through me first.  I don’t see any other way than me winning.  If he’s going to be a star in the future, it’s going to have to be with a loss after fighting me.”

 

Are there advantages to fighting at home?

“I thank Frank Warren for that and giving me that advantage.  I think it all depends on his mental capacity.  He’s coming to a foreign country.  Provided that he adapts to the environment and change of scenery, then we’ll find out that night.”

 

You were Pedraza’s mandatory so were you surprised that Gervonta won that fight and in that dominant a fashion?

“I was to be honest with you.  My prediction was Pedraza to win on points.  I thought Pedraza had all the attributes and tools to get the job done.  But then on the night watching the fight, I was surprised by the way Pedraza went about his work.  I thought Gervonta looked brilliant and mature beyond his years.  I think he put on a really good show but I thought Pedraza could have gone about it a little bit better.”

 

What are your advantages in the fight against Gervonta Davis?

“First and foremost, I don’t think he’s completely overrated, but I think there are still a lot of questions to be asked of him.  He looked very good and brilliant against Pedraza.  The only other reputable fighter on his record is Cristobal Cruz.  There are a lot of question marks lingering on.

 

“I feel like I’ve been in tougher fights than him.  I feel like I’ve been in longer fights.  I think I have a better boxing IQ than him.  He’s very powerful, very physical and very fast, but we haven’t seen him in a long fight or a dog fight or a grueling fight though.  I will certainly ask all these questions.  I’ll do it any which way that it has to go.  I’m more than confident I’ll get the job done.”

 

Is it key to take the fight into later rounds?

“I think possibly, yeah.  I think that could be one angle to look at it.  We’re not going to really know until the first bell rings.  We all have game plans, but good fighters have to adapt. There’s going to be ebbs and flows in this fight, but I think the better fighter will prevail and I think that’s me.”

 

Boxing is hot in UK, how much of a benefit do you think will that be for you?

“I think it’s definitely beneficial to be fighting at home.  I don’t live far from London so I won’t have to leave my house until a couple of days before the fight and obviously my sons will be there in support for me.  It’s definitely beneficial.  I want us both to get a fair crack and I’m sure it will be.  When you’re the home fighter, you feel more obliged to dig a little bit deeper for your home fans who are cheering for you. So that’s what I’ll do.”

 

What is your prediction for the fight?

“Like 21 previous times, I’ll always predict I’ll win.  So that’s what I’ll predict again.  One thing is factually certain, I’ll give my absolute all.  My prediction is I’ll come away with victory and the belt, whichever which way I have to.  I’ll find a way to come away with that belt.”

 

Over here in the U.S., the sentiment is that Gervonta is the favorite in the fight. Do you think you’re the favorite because of the experience that you bring to the ring?

“I don’t think I’m the favorite but I’m not a 3-1 underdog.  When I was told that, I thought I must be fighting three people.  I’ve never been a 3-1 underdog.  I’m a big underdog apparently, but certainly not in my eyes.  In my eyes it won’t be a massive shock if I win this title.  The U.S. fans think it will be a walk-over, but that couldn’t be more further from the truth.  I can understand him being the favorite with all the hype and Mayweather behind him, but I’m baffled by being that much of an underdog.  But we’ll find out.”

 

Is there extra motivation in being the underdog?

“Yes, it’s extra motivation.  My friends are betting on me and when I win, they’ll have a great night.  This is the first time I’ve been the underdog in my pro career, and I’m really enjoying being the underdog.  I’m really thriving on it.”

 

LENOARD ELLERBE, Davis’ promoter and Mayweather Promotions CEO:

“This is going to be an unbelievable fight and we are looking forward to promoting our first event on foreign soil.  We expect a sold-out crowd and this is going to be a very, very exciting fight.

 

“We think this is a wonderful opportunity and a tremendous platform for [Gervonta] to be able to showcase his skills across the world.  With him being a young champion I think he has an advantage, and working alongside someone like Floyd, someone who can explain to him what it’s like to go into hostile territory and what to expect coming into a big fight.  All those intangibles, along with his hard work and preparation he’s done, I think he has a tremendous advantage and has the perfect team in his corner to get the job done.

 

“We are very comfortable with the judges and we expect a very level playing field.  Tank just has to go in there and stay focused and do what he does. I think his skills will speak loud and clear.  Liam Walsh is a tremendous fighter and he has a tremendous following and he has been in some good fights.

 

“This is similar to back in 2005 when Floyd went into Atlantic City and beat Arturo Gatti.  But this is a little different in that, as Tank mentioned, he has a lot of fans in the UK.  I don’t think it’s going to be one-side.  Because one thing I do love about the UK fans is that they are very, very knowledgeable boxing fans.  They can appreciate skill level and fighters that are really, really good.  Tank has a tremendous social media presence and a tremendous following in the UK.  As far as the crowd is concerned, I’m not so sure it’s going to be all Liam Walsh.  Tank is going to have a lot of support there.  And, again, when you have the kind of preparation he has had, and you are focused, that’s what it’s going to come down to.

 

“The focus right now is Liam Walsh and Saturday night.  As long as Tank stays focused and does what he does, the sky is the limit.  He has a tremendous team and he’s working with the best promoter in all of boxing.  We are really excited about this young man’s career and in our eyes he’s the most exciting fighter in all of boxing.  And soon he’s going to be the biggest star in all of boxing.”

 

FRANK WARREN, Hall of Fame promoter:

“The Copper Box Arena is where they held the boxing for the London Olympics.  It’s a fantastic venue with the crowd right on top of the ring.  That atmosphere is going to be fantastic and it’s going to be a sellout.  This fight is a great opportunity for the American public watching on SHOWTIME, and for those in England, to see a really good quality fight.  In some ways this fight reminds me a lot of when Joe Calzaghe fought against Jeff Lacy, who was a big favorite, and Joe took him to school.

 

“I think it’s always best to have the home advantage.  You got your fans there and your home support. The British boxing fans are passionate fans, and they are going to get behind their man.  Sometimes when you’re away from home, you may not get the best out of you.  When you are at home, you have to do your best because those fans are there for you.  I much prefer the home advantage and it’s worked well for us in the past, like when we did the fight with Ricky Hatton fight and Kostya Tszyu and he went in as a massive underdog in that fight and he ended up winning.  And we’ve done that on numerous occasions. But you have to have a good fighter.

 

“With Liam, he’s been under the radar with some of the problems we’ve mentioned outside the ring.  But the fact of the matter is that he’s one of the best British boxers.  He’s an excellent fighter.  He’s not an old 30, he’s a young 30 years of age.  If Gervonta Davis is going to be what the people think he’s going to be, well then he will be that if he beats Liam Walsh.  And to beat Liam Walsh, you have to be something special.

 

“Everyone is looking for the next big thing.  Is [Gervonta] overrated?  We will find out.  I know one thing is for sure, Liam is underrated.  And that’s going to be the difference.”

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing. To become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

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

Strong M-1 Challenge 77 main card set Viktor Nemkov takes on Ronny Markes In light heavyweight showdown

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Viktor Nemkov (L) is an MMA warrior and one of the top M-1 Global pound-for-pound fighters
ST. PETERSBURG, Russia (May 10, 2017) – Former two-time M-1 Challenge light heavyweight champion Viktor Nemkov will take on M-1 Global-debuting Ronny Markes, May 19, in the M-1 Challenge 77 main event at Sochi, Russia.
M-1 Challenge 77 will be streamed in high definition on www.M1Global.TVlive from Sochi, Russia. 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.
A native of Kazakhstan fighting out of Russia, Nemkov (24-6-0, M-1: 17-5-0) has once again fought his way back to the top of the M-1 light heavyweight class. In 2013, Nemkov defeated Vasily Babich (11-8-0), by way of a second-round submission (arm-lock), at M-1 Challenge 66, for the vacant M-1 Challenge light heavyweight title.
Nemkov lost his first title defense by a five-round split decision to German Stephan Puetz, who Nemkov gained revenge from four fights later, taking a five-round majority decision in the M-1 Challenge 63 Fight of the Night to regain the coveted M-1 crown.
In his first title defense of his second reign, Nemkov lost his title via a five-round split decision to Rashid Yusupov (8-0), a year ago at M-1 Challenge 68.  The resilient Nemkov will position himself for yet another title shot with an impressive victory against Markes.
Markes (16-4-0, M-1: 0-0-0), of Brazil, will be making his M-1 Global debut against Nemkov. In his last fight this past February, Markes choked out 15-4-0 Tony Lopez in the opening round of their King of the Cage super heavyweight championship match. Markes is a UFC and World Series of Fighting veteran
The M-1 Challenge 77 main card is stacked with entertaining, evenly-matched fights, including a potentially explosive throw-down between undefeated Russian middleweight prospect Artiom Frolov (8-0-0, M-1: 5-0-0) and always dangerous Talekh “The Azerbaijan Terminator” Nadzhafzade (5-1-1 (M-1: 2-0-1).
Russian featherweight Viktor Kolesnik (9-2-1, M-1: 0-0-1) vs. Brazlian Felipe Rego (10-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Ukrainian welterweight Audrey “Iron” Lezhnev(15-7-0, M-1: 3-3-0) vs. Russian Kurbanali Abdusalamov, and Georgian lightweight Raul Tutarauli (9-3-0, M-1: 4-1-0) vs. M-1 Global pro-debuting  Artur Lemos (8-2-0), of Portugal, are also scheduled to be in main-card action.
INFORMATION:

www.M1Global.tv

Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
@VFinkelchtein
@M1Global
Facebook:
 
M-1 CHALLENGE EVENT CALENDAR:
 
M-1 Challenge 77: Nemkov vs. Markes – May 19, 2017 Sochi, Russia
M-1 Challenge 78: Divnich vs. Ismagulov – May 26, 2017 in Orenburg, Russia
M-1 Challenge 79: Shlemenko vs. Halsey – June 1, 2017 in St. Petersburg, Russia
M-1 Challenge 80: Kharitonov vs. Lopes – June 15, 2017 in Harbin, China
May 19 in Sochi, Russia
boxing, martial arts, mixed martial arts, MMA

Anthem’s FNTSY Sports Network and Fight Network Launch on go90™

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Partnership Expands Anthem’s Mobile Footprint with Clips from FNTSY Sports Network’s Daily Shows, Fight Network’s Extensive Content Library

NEW YORK | TORONTO – Anthem Sports & Entertainment Corp. announced today that FNTSY Sports Network, the world’s first and only channel dedicated to fantasy sports, and Fight Network, the world’s premier multi-platform combat sports channel, have launched on go90.

“The launch of Anthem’s flagship properties FNTSY Sports Network and Fight Network on the go90 platform is an important step in our mobile expansion strategy,” said Leonard Asper, CEO of Anthem Sports & Entertainment Corp. “The service reaches mobile phone users across the U.S., creating a new national platform for viewer consumption and conversation. Our original and timely premium content is a perfect fit for the service, fueling combat sports fans with exclusive fights and digital features, while giving fantasy sports players an edge with the latest picks, rankings, projections and much more.”

Anthem on go90 includes daily clips from FNTSY Sports Network’s staple shows, including HotRoster Todayhosted by Garion Thorne and Cam Stewart, the Pat Mayo Hour featuring award-winning fantasy sports expert Pat Mayo, Morency Unfiltered and Game Time Decisions, hosted by the outspoken Gabriel Morency, Home Ice Advantage with Chris Meaney, plus FNTSY Mixtape, highlighting the best short-form content featuring Corey Parson, Tim Gilbert, Ashley Docking and more. Fight Network will feature coverage all the biggest events in the combat sports world, exclusive interviews with top personalities and fighters, original productions such as Retrospective and Tristar Stories, plus fights and events from its extensive programming line-up. Watch Anthem’s FNTSY Sports Network and Fight Network on go90.com or the go90 app available on iOS or Android.

Available across all U.S. wireless carriers, go90 is currently delivering over 25,000 hours of live and on-demand sports from the top leagues in football, basketball, soccer and more.

FNTSY Sports Network is the world’s first and only 24/7 television network designed from the ground up toinform, engage and entertain the more than 60 million enthusiasts who play fantasy sports annually and on adaily basis. The destination channel for fantasy sports players, its schedule includes exciting live studioprogramming, call-in shows, expert panels, celebrity and expert drafts, reality programming and on-sitecommentary from sports venues, as well as short-form programming from the experts around the continent,providing fantasy sports discussion and analysis for football, baseball, basketball, soccer, golf, hockey,NASCAR and other sports. It also includes a fantasy sports “ticker” that features the most information available on a single screen. It airs on over 20 cable, satellite and IPTV platforms in the U.S. and Canada and onstreaming services including Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire, Xbox, Pluto TV and Smart TV platforms such as Xumo, as well as globally on digital and social platforms.

Fight Network is a 24/7 HD multi-platform channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports. It airsprograms focused on the entire scope of the combat sports genre, including mixed martial arts, boxing,kickboxing, professional wrestling, traditional martial arts, fight news and analysis, as well as fight-themeddrama, reality series, documentaries and feature films. Fight Network’s dynamic programming lineup includeslive events from around the world and extensive news coverage. Fight Network is distributed on cable, satelliteand IPTV systems in the U.S., Canada and over 30 countries across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, aswell as globally on streaming services including Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Pluto TV, as well as globally on digital and social platforms.

FNTSY Sports Network and Fight Network are subsidiaries of Anthem Sports & Entertainment Corp.

 

For More Information Contact:

Anthem Sports & Entertainment Corp.
Ariel Shnerer

Director, Programming & Communications

ashnerer@anthemse.com

boxing, Rivera Promotions

Undefeated hometown prospect Irvin Gonzalez to headline June 10; New England’s Future series continues in Worcester, MA

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Heavyweight Sonya Lamonakis to
Fight for vacant UBF World title
WORCESTER, Mass. (May 10, 2017, 2017) – Undefeated rising super featherweight prospect Irvin Gonzalez will headline the third installment of the “New England’s Future” series, Saturday night, June 10, as professional boxing returns for the first time in 11 years to the DCU Center (Exhibition Hall) in Worcester, Massachusetts.
“New England’s Future 3” is presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by retired three-time, two division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera and his son, Anthonee (A.J.) Rivera.
Arguably the top New England prospect, the 21-year-old Gonzalez (6-0, 6 KOs) is continuing Worcester’s rich boxing tradition, which dates back nearly a century.  A 2015 N. E. Golden Gloves champion, Gonzalez has knocked out all six of his pro opponents, four in the opening round, the other two in the second. Gonzalez will fight Raul Lopez (10-2-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx (NY), in an eight-round match for the vacant Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) East Regional super featherweight championship.
Former International Boxing Organization (IBO heavyweight world champion, Sonya “The Scholar” Lamonakis (10-2-2, 1 KO), will face TBA in the eight-round co-feature for the vacant UBF World heavyweight title.  Lamonakis is a New York City teacher who lived in Turners Falls (MA) and graduated from Springfield (MA) College.  She is a native of Greece and a four-time New York Golden Gloves champion.
“I am excited that we will be having our ‘New England’s Future 3’ boxing event at the DCU Center,” promoter Jose Antonio Rivera said.  “The last time there was boxing at the DCU was when I fought for and won the WBA Junior Middleweight world title. It was an electric night with the fight televised live on Showtime. I am hoping we can bring the same kind of excitement with our action- packed lineup of young and hungry up-and-coming boxers.
“We have two UBF title fights on the line with Sonya Lamonakis fighting for the female UBF Heavyweight World Title and Worcester’s own Irving Gonzalez, in only his seventh pro fight, fighting for the UBF 126-pound division East Regional championship. I’m also excited to have five Worcester boxers on our event at the DCU and I hope our Worcester fan-base comes out to support them. I am looking forward to seeing another great night of action-packed boxing.”
Powerhouse fighter Vinnie “American Nightmare” Carita (16-1-1, 15 KOs), fighting out of Pembroke (MA), returns in an eight-round Special Cruiserweight Attraction against TBA.
Also fighting on the undercard, all in four-round bouts, are Worcester welterweight Andy Gonzalez (6-1, 5 KOs) vs. Baltimore’s Kevin “The Scarecrow” Womack, Jr. (7-14-3, 5 KOs), Lawrence (MA) junior welterweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Las Vegas’ Johnny Frazier (2-3-0-4, 2 KOs), New Haven (CT) featherweight Josh Crespo (7-4-3, 3 KOs) vs. Georgia’s Gabriel Braxton (2-18, 1 KO), Worcester featherweight Ranse Andino (1-0) vs. Woburn (MA) Gilvan Santos (0-3),  Springfield (MA) junior middleweight Derrick “Double Impact” Whitley (1-0) vs. Norwalk (CT) veteran Shaka Moore (12-22-3, 2 KOs), Worcester’s Bobby Harris III vs. Brazil’s Nathan Schulte in a battle of pro-debuting super middleweights, Southbridge (MA) junior welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (1-0) vs. Lawrence’s Anthony Everett (1-5), Worcester heavyweight Bryan Daniels (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Florida’s Christopher “The Archbishop” Boykins (1-8) and Hartford’s (CT) Richie “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Michigan’s Michael Shipp (1-4, 1 KO) fighting at a 180-pound catch-weight.
                                                            
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at the DCU Center box office, www.dcu.centerworcester.com, by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera
(anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters.
Doors open at 6 p.m., first bout 7 p.m. ET.
Sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Championsofhealth.usana.com, Whiskey On Water and Worcester criminal defense Atty. Michael Erlich.
INFORMATION:  
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_
boxing

Gamal Yafai and Frankie Gavin speak about undercard bouts this Saturday, Live on AWE- A Wealth of Entertainment

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Kal Yafai defends WBA Super Flyweight title against Suguru Muranaka This Saturday, May 13th on AWE-A Wealth of Entertainment

NEW START TIME–2 PM ET / 11 AM PT
 SAN DIEGO, CALIF. – May 10, 2017 – Gamal Yafai says he can beat Sean Davis any way he wants to when he challenges his local rival for the WBC International Super-Bantamweight title at the Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham on Saturday LIVE on AWE- A Wealth of Entertainment at a NEW START TIME 2 PM ET / 11 AM PT.
In the main event, Kal Yafai defends the WBA Super Flyweight title against Suguru Muranaka.
For fans who do not have AWE, they can access the fight card on the AWE channell on www.klowdtv.com

Yafai and Davis finally get their hands on each other after their proposed meeting for Yafai’s Commonwealth title fell through in October after the champion damaged his ankle in training.
Davis instead met Paul Economides for the crown he defends tonight, while Yafai returned from injury in Germany in March in a six rounder. The 25 year old now meets ‘Showtime’ on the undercard of his brother Kal’s World title defence, and Yafai plans to do a comprehensive job on Davis to show he’s ready to move to the next level.
“I can’t wait for this,” said Yafai. “Fighting in front of my home fans on big shows is something I’ve always wanted to do and it’s a bonus to be alongside my brother. To do it so early into my career is massive for me. I’m so happy to be one of the big names in Birmingham.
“I know a bit about Sean. I didn’t know him a year ago until his coach messaged me on Facebook for a bit of sparring and we done a little bit of work.
“It’s my job to answer whatever Sean brings. I’m capable of that. I am more than just a puncher, I can outbox Sean and outpunch him – I beat him in every department.
“I was preparing for the Davis fight doing box jumps. I’ve got it on video, it was on CCTV where I was training. I went over on it, it’s hard to describe how I done it. The pain and rehab was unreal. I couldn’t do anything for two months solid.
“It was horrible being out of the ring so long. I couldn’t train and obviously wasn’t getting paid. It’s hard when you can’t fight but it only makes you stronger.
“I didn’t have any surgery, just had to let it rest. It was so bruised and I tore a few ligaments but it’s in the past now.
“I’m entering the next phase of my career now. I learnt a lot as an amateur so I didn’t have to have as many learning fights so to speak. I didn’t need that long like other fighters might do. I was a World class amateur so I think I’ve done alright so far and I’m ready for the next step in my career.”
Yafai’s clash with Davis is part of a huge night of action in Birmingham where Kal Yafai defends his WBA World Super-Flyweight title against Suguru Muranaka.
Sam Eggington challenges Cerefino Rodriguez for the European Welterweight title, Ryan Kelly and Adam Harper meet for the Midlands Area Middleweight Title.
GAVIN FACES DANGER MAN GARRIDO IN BIRMINGHAM
‘Funtime’ faces French challenger on Saturday night
Frankie Gavin admits he’s heading to the last chance saloon as he faces Renald Garrido.
Gavin is back in action after his loss in the same arena to Sam Eggington in a thrilling fight in October, and the former World title challenger is kicking off a new chapter in his career having switched to Eggington’s trainer Jon Pegg.
Garrido is a familiar face in the UK having beaten Bradley Saunders and gone the distance with Jack Catterall, Martin Lindsay and Robbie Davies Jr, and Gavin knows he must be at his best if he wants to bounce back with a win and move onto major title fights later in the year.
“I’m heading to the real last chance saloon now,” said Gavin. “I’m in a gym with a lot of fighters and that’s good for me – it’s keeping me on my toes and hungry.
“I want a big fight next so I need a good performance on Saturday to prove that I can still win massive titles. Garrido is a good test for me, he always comes to win and he’s dangerous, so I need to be on my guard.”
Gavin’s clash with Garrido is part of a huge night of action in Birmingham as Kal Yafai makes the first defence of his WBA World Super-Flyweight title against Suguru Muranaka.
Eggington challenges Cerefino Rodriguez for the European Welterweight title, Yafai’s brother Gamal defends his WBC International Super-Bantamweight championship against fellow Birmingham man Sean Davis, Ryan Kelly and Adam Harper meet for the Midlands Area Middleweight Title.
There’s action for Lennox Clarke, unbeaten Olympian Josh Kelly, Kieron Conway, Aaron Lovell, Jordan Clayton, Charlie Williams and Cori Gibbs.
About AWE LIVE BOXING 

AWE LIVE Boxing features live world title championship and elimination bouts showcasing today’s most exciting fighters. Since the inception of AWE’s live boxing events in 2011, AWE has featured over 50 world title fights.

AWE has brought boxing fans some of the most exciting and controversial bouts, including the matchup of Ricky Burns against Ray Beltran for the world title. AWE featured live and exclusively the crowning of American Terence Crawford over Ricky Burns. AWE fans have witnessed the explosive power of undefeated heavyweight Tyson Fury multiple times on the network, including Fury’s victory over Kevin Johnson.  In 2017, AWE was the exclusive United States television provider of the historic matchup between legendary British heavyweight David Haye and Tony Bellew.
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Rances Barthelemy Training Camp Quotes & Photos

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Two-Division World Champion Battles Kiryl Relikh in 140-Pound Title Eliminator on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 20 From

MGM National Harbor in Maryland

 

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/

Premier Boxing Champions

 

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD (May 10, 2017) – Cuban star Rances Barthelemy will look to take one step closer to becoming the first Cuban fighter to win world titles in three weight classes when he battles Kiryl Relikh in a WBA 140-pound title eliminator on Saturday, May 20 on SHOWTIME from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

 

Televised coverage begins on SHOWTIME at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and is headlined by WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. defending his title against top challenger Oscar Escandon plus super middleweight contenders Andre Dirrell and Jose Uzcategui in a matchup for the Interim IBF Super Middleweight World Championship. In the telecast opener, from Copper Box Arena in London, Gervonta Davis defends his IBF 130-pound world championship against Liam Walsh.

 

Tickets for the live event at MGM National Harbor, promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $200, $150, $100 and $50, and are now on sale. To purchase tickets go to http://mgmnationalharbor.com/.

 

Already a champion at 130 and 135-pounds, a victory over the former title challenger Relikh will put Barthelemy in the mandatory position to face unified 140-pound champion Julius Indongo and do something that no fighter has done in the rich history of Cuban boxing.

 

Here is what Barthelemy had to say from training camp in Las Vegas:

 

1) How is training camp going? How have you benefitted from sparring and training alongside of your brother Leduan and Yordenis Ugas and have their recent performances been an indication of how you expect to perform? 

 

“Training camp is going really well. Training alongside of my brother and Yordenis under the tutelage of Ismael Salas is the best thing that could happen in my career. They keep me focused and motivated to get better every day. Yordenis and I have been helping each other during our camps, he’s an Olympic athlete so having him to train with is really beneficial. We have a new strength and conditioning coach as well who has us in the best shape possible. I know May 20 you guys will see the best Rances Barthelemy yet.”

 

2) What would it mean to you to become the first three-division world champion from Cuba?

 

“It would mean the world to me, after all that it took to defect from Cuba, the near death experiences, the imprisonments, leaving my loved ones behind, it would all have been worth it. I want to inspire the youth that come after me as well, let them know to never give up on their dreams no matter the conditions you live in or what the naysayers may say. Me winning a third world title and making history for a Cuban would prove that.”

 

3) What did you take away from Relikh’s loss to Ricky Burns? 

 

“I didn’t get to watch the fight but watched the highlights and it seemed like a very entertaining fight. People were saying that it probably should have gone the other way even, so it seems like he put on a good performance.”

4) How would you characterize Relikh’s style and how do you see this fight playing out? 

 

“He likes to come forward a lot and attack. I’m prepared for that if that’s what he plans to do come fight night but I also anticipate having to make adjustments. I always prepare to adjust to whatever my opponent brings. Being a cerebral fighter is a skill that has helped me succeed inside the ring.”

5) Can you address your 11-month layoff and how your training has been geared towards shaking off any ring rust you may have? 

 

“There will be no ring rust come May 20 as we have been in the gym non-stop since my last fight against Mickey Bey. We took a few weeks off to visit Cuba for the first time since my defection. Aside from that I made sure to stay active and I’ve been training hard to be prepared when my name got called. The 11-month layoff happened for reasons out of my control. My management team has been trying to get the best opponents and unfortunately it took longer than we expected but we are here now and I’m as prepared as I have ever been.”

 

6) How did you trip back to Cuba come about and what was it like to be back in your home country?

 

“It was very emotional and a long eight years since I had been back. I didn’t know if I’d be able to go back or not. But I visited the Cuban embassy in Washington D.C. and they told me I’d finally be able to go back to visit my loved ones. It was nothing but nerves until I got over there. It was an emotional time and everyone welcomed me back with open arms in my hometown of Havana. It’s something I will never forget, especially for the way I was received.”

7) How do you rate your skills and progression as a fighter considering your last three dominant wins over top quality opposition? Do you feel that you are at the peak of your career? 

 

“I am definitely at my peak physically, and I’m looking to match that on paper this year. I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring. I don’t like to rate myself, I leave that to the people and the media. They’ve taken notice and that’s why I am where I am today, but I am expecting big things to happen this year.”

 

8) Why did you feel it was time to rise in weight, especially considering the wealth of talent at 135 right now? Who do you consider to be the top 135 fighter now that you are gone? 

 

“My body was asking for it, 135 was taking too much of a physical toll on me. It may not have been noticeable, but I struggled to make weight during my last fight at 135 and felt I lost some of my power because of the drainage. Since I moved up to 140 I definitely have felt a lot better. It was the right move. Plus, I now have the chance to go after a third world title in a third division, which would be the first time for any boxer from Cuba.”

 

9) Why did you make the decision to move from Miami to Las Vegas and how do you think it has benefited you?

 

“To be honest, there is nothing better for a Cuban than to be living in Miami, because the weather is just right and what we are used to. But at the same time it presents a lot of distractions too. So moving to the boxing hub of the United States is better for me so I don’t get wrapped up in anything extra other than boxing. Plus, there are so many sparring partners here and I can go up to Mt. Charleston and get my runs in up there.”

 

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ABOUT RUSSELL JR. vs. ESCANDON

 

Gary Russell Jr. vs. Oscar Escandon is a featherweight world championship showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on Saturday, May 20 from MGM National Harbor in Maryland. Televised coverage begins on SHOWTIME at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and features super middleweight contenders Andre Dirrell and Jose Uzcategui in a matchup for the Interim IBF Super Middleweight World Championship plus two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy in a WBA 140-pound world title eliminator against Kiryl Relikh. In the telecast opener, from Copper Box Arena in London, Gervonta Davis puts his IBF Jr. Lightweight Title on the line against Liam Walsh.

 

For more information, follow on Twitter @MrGaryRussellJr, @TGBPromotions, @MGMNatlHarbor and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing andwww.Facebook.com/MGMNationalHarbor. The event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

America’s Youngest World Champion Gervonta Davis And WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. Anchor Four-Fight, Split-Site Boxing Event Saturday, May 20 On SHOWTIME®

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Davis Defends Against Unbeaten Liam Walsh To Open the Show From London; 

Russell Faces Mandatory Challenger Oscar Escandon In Main Event from Outside Washington D.C.

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®

Saturday, May 20 * Live At 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT

From MGM National Harbor In Maryland

 

NEW YORK (May 10, 2017) – America’s youngest world champion, Gervonta Davis, will make his first world title defense in the opening bout and featherweight world champion Gary Russell Jr. will make his mandatory world title defense in the main event of a split-site, four-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event on Saturday, May 20, live on SHOWTIME at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT*. 

 

Davis will travel to Britain to defend his IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship against undefeated No. 1-ranked contender and local favorite Liam Walsh from Copper Box Arena in London.  Russell will make a long-awaited homecoming—his first professional fight in the region—and his second WBC Featherweight World Championship defense against mandatory challenger Oscar Escandon live from MGM National Harbor just outside of Washington, D.C.

 

*Editors’ Note: In order to present all four bouts on one program, the Davis vs. Walsh bout may air on a delay basis of up to 30 minutes. 

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING host Brian Custer will anchor the four-fight telecast from Maryland with coverage of Davis vs. Walsh provided by BT Sport.  Veteran sportscaster Mauro Ranallo will handle play-by-play at MGM National Harbor with Hall of Famer Al Bernstein and former two-division champion Paulie Malignaggi serving as analysts.  Emmy award winning sports reporter Jim Gray and 2017 Hall of Fame inductee Steve Farhood will also serve from ringside.  Secondary Audio Programming will be offered in Spanish by Alejandro Luna and former world champ Raúl Marquez. 

 

From London, John Rawling will handle play-by-play for Davis vs. Walsh with former world champion Richie Woodhall providing the color commentary at Copper Box Arena.

 

“May 20 will be a big night of boxing and it kicks off a run of four consecutive weeks of world class fights on SHOWTIME,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports®.  “We have consistently delivered the biggest and most important boxing events from around the globe to SHOWTIME subscribers.  This unique presentation—four fights, two world championships and two title eliminators, from different continents, all on one show—is yet another example of our unrivaled commitment to the sport.”

 

The 22-year-old Davis (17-0, 16 KOs) is the youngest reigning world champion from the United States and the second youngest in the world.  The Baltimore native and Floyd Mayweather protégé will travel to hostile territory in his first title defense against Walsh (21-0, 14 KOs) in a matchup of undefeated southpaws. 

 

Russell Jr. (27-1, 16 KOs) will look to make a statement in the loaded featherweight division against mandatory challenger Ecandon (25-2, 17 KOs), who owns a stunning knockout of former world champion Jesus Cuellar.  Russell vs. Escandon is the sixth featherweight title bout on SHOWTIME since February 2016. 

 

Two world title eliminators will round out the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING quadrupleheader.  Top super middleweight contenders Andre Dirrell (25-2, 16 KOs) and José Uzcátegui (26-1, 22 KOs) will face off in an IBF Super Middleweight Eliminator to determine the mandatory challenger for champion James DeGale. 

 

Undefeated Rances Barthelemy (25-0, 13 KOs) will meet Kiryl Relikh (21-1, 19 KOs) in a WBA Super Lightweight Eliminator for unified champ Julius Indongo.  Barthelemy, who won titles at 130 and 135, will earn an opportunity to become Cuba’s first three-division champion with a win over the hard-hitting Relikh. 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing. To become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

boxing

King’s Promotions Press Conference Video

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Christopher Brooker to take on Oscar Riojas in featured bout This Friday, May 12th at the SugarHouse Casino

Jerome Conquest battles Daniel Perales in co-feature bout

Also seeing action will be undefeated fighters Blake Mansfield, Sam Orapeza, Jeffrey Torres, and Harold Lopez
Jerome Conquest (l) and Christopher Brooker
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA. (May 10, 2017) -Below is the video from Tuesday’s King’s Promotions Press Conference at The SugarHouse Casino
On Friday night at the SugarHouse Casino, , super middleweight Christopher Brooker (11-3, 5 KO’s) of Philadelphia battles Oscar Riojas (14-7-1, 5 KO’s) of Monterrey, Mexico in a super middleweight bout.
In the co-feature, Jerome Conquest (6-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on Daniel Perales (10-9-1, 5 KO’s) of Monterrey, Mexico in a six-round lightweight bout.
Also in a six-round bout:
Blake Mansfield (5-0-1, 2 KO’s) of Burlington, NC will fight Henry Beckford (4-6, 1 KO) of Coram, NY in a super middleweight bout.
In four-round bouts: 
 
Chaise Nelson (4-1, 3 KO’s) of Dayton, Ohio will take on Bryan Perez Nevarez (2-5-1, 1 KO) of Carolina, Puerto Rico in a featherweight bout.

Sam Orapeza (1-0) of Philadelphia battles Kyle McNutt (1-2, 1 KO) of Battle Creek, MI in a cruiserweight affair.
Jeffrey Torres (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will fight Kashon Hutchinson (2-2, 1 KO) in a battle of Keystone State based lightweights.

Harold Lopez (1-0, 1 KO) of Bethlehem, PA will square off Sergio Aguilar (2-5, 2 KO’s) of Mexico City, Mexico in a bantamweight fight.

Tickets are on sale for $100, $75, $50,  and can be purchased at SugarHouseBoxing.eventbrite.com
boxing

Jose Rodriguez unfazed, determined to KO 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez In “Rapid Fire” main event June 17 

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Airing live on CBS Sports Network from
Hartman Arena in Kansas
PARK CITY, Kansas (May 11, 2017) – Unfazed Mexico-native Jose Rodriguez is determined to knockout 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez on Saturday, June 17, in the “KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire” headline event.

Wichita-native Hernandez (1-0, 1 KO) will be fighting at home against Rodriquez (2-0, 2 KOs), a flyweight living in Wisconsin,in the six-round main event that will air (10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT) on CBS Sports Network live from Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.
“KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC.
Hernandez drew nearly 3,200 fans for his professional debut, March 25, in nearby Mulvane (KS), in which the 21-year-old future star stopped Patrick Gutierrez in the fourth round of the main event, which was also televised live on CBS Sports Network.
Rodriguez is chasing the American dream having moved 12 years ago to Wisconsin for a job opportunity and better life for his family.  He had started boxing in Mexico but was unable to continue because he needed to work.  A few years after he moved to Wisconsin, Rodriguez decided he wanted to box again, although he had a difficult time finding a trainer who wanted to work with a 24-year-old novice.  Trainer Eddie Haynes gave Rodriguez an opportunity to join Team Certified, which includes former world title challenger Angel Manfredy, who also works Rodriguez’ corner.
After a brief yet undefeated amateur career, highlighted by Rodriguez’ gold-medal performance in the in the Milwaukee Golden Gloves Championships, Jose turned pro last July in Milwaukee against Nicholas Brand. Now, he has a pair of first-round knockouts, the last this past September against Richard Tallmadge, who was coached by Nate Jones, ironically, also an American Olympic bronze-medal winner in 1996.
Rodriguez, who drives 1 ½-hours to train at his gym, works the night shift in a factory.  “I fight for my wife and three children,” the 29-year-old Rodriquez said.  “This is a very important fight for me because, when I knock him out, it’ll open doors for me and my team.  I train very hard every day because I want to make a living boxing, or at least enough to work less hours, so I can see my kids more than the hour a day I do now.  I’ve already lost too much time
“This is going to be a good action-fight, from start to finish, as long as it lasts.  I like to fight inside, putting a lot of pressure on my opponent.  I don’t want to leave it in the hands of the judges.  No decision, I’m knocking him out.  If he thinks this is going to be an easy fight, he’ll know who I am after our fight.  I’m going to finish him!”
Unbeaten Canadian featherweight Marc “Gwapo” Pagcaliwangan (10-0-1, 8 KOs) takes on Mexican invader Angel “Terrible” Monrreal (9-8-1, 3 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature.  Pagacaliwangan is a Taekwondo-trained fighter of Filipino heritage.  He is a three-time Ontario Golden Gloves and two-time Provincial amateur champion in his native Canada.
Wichita junior middleweight Noel Esquada (7-3-2, 5 KOs) meets 2012 Chicago Golden Gloves champion Limberth “El Gallito” Ponce (12-3, 9 KOs) in a scheduled six-round bout.  Garden City (KS) featherweight prospect Eric Vargas (2-0, 1 KO) faces pro-debuting Humberto “Tito” Tellez, fighting out of Winfield (KS).
Non-televised “KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire” undercard bouts featuring additional Kansas fighters will soon be announced.  All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets are on sale at the Hartman Arena box office and http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/060052A193761C74.  Prices are $175.00 (VIP ringside package ticket which includes a limited-edition event T-shirt and a ticket to the official after-party with a meet-and-greet opportunity), $150.00 (floor seat which includes a limited-edition event T-shirt), $75.00, $35.00 and $20.00.  Tickets will also be sold in Wichita at Angela’s Café (2119 W. 21st St. N, or call Team Nico (Jeremiah @ 316. 393.3743 or Lewis @ 316.806.0144).
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 7:00 p.m. CT.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

SCORECARDS WILL NOT BE NEEDED FOR NEF 29 FEATHERWEIGHT BATTLE

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lewiston, Maine (May 10, 2017) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee on Saturday, June 17, 2017 with the fight promotion’s next event, “NEF 29: STARS & STRIPES.”  The event will feature a full slate of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts.  Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a professional featherweight contest to the fight card.  Josh Parker (5-9) will meet Andre “The Finisher” Belcarris (0-1) at a fight weight of 145-pounds.  Both athletes have earned a reputation for finishing fights and “not letting it go to the judges’ scorecards.”  Both will also be looking to bounce back from losses at “NEF 28” last month.

 

Josh Parker was riding high off a win over Derek Shorey (4-9) when he signed to face Matt Denning (4-6) on April 29.  Unfortunately for Parker, Denning was able to work his jiu-jitsu effectively and submit Parker in the first round.  Like all Josh Parker bouts, however, the action was fast and furious and the head of Ruthless MMA & Boxing predicts much of the same excitement for his fight with Belcarris.

 

“I want to thank NEF for the opportunity, and I want to thank my opponent for taking the fight,” said Parker.  “I’m excited for the challenge. Andre has a lot of experience in the cage and with 11 knockouts on his record, I’d say our fighting styles are going to make one hell of an exciting fight. The fans are going love this one. See you June 17th!”

 

Andre Belcarris entered the NEF cage for the first time at “NEF 28,” making his professional debut after an amateur career spanning more than three-dozen fights.  In the opposite corner stood veteran Walter Smith-Cotito (5-5).  Belcarris held his own against the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt for two rounds before Smith-Cotito was able to submit him.  While the fight did take place at featherweight, Belcarris had spent the majority of his camp training for a bantamweight bout with Elias Leland (3-2) until Leland had to pull out due to injury.  Now with a full camp to prepare for a fight at featherweight, Belcarris promises improvements in his game.

 

“I’m working hard to improve upon my last performance,” said Belcarris between training sessions at NorthEast Assassins in Vermont.  “A full camp with 145 as the target is a different setup.  I will be ready!”

 

New England Fights returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine with its next event, “NEF 29: STARS & STRIPES,” on Saturday, June 17, 2017.  Tickets are on sale now at the Colisee box office 207-783-2009 x 525 and online at www.TheColisee.com.

 

For more information on the event and fight card updates, please visit the promotion’s website at www.NewEnglandFights.com.  In addition, you can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

 

About New England Fights

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