All posts by FNU47

boxing, CBS Sports Network

U.S. Olympian Nico Hernandez Building Wichita into a fight town

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins”
Encore presentation this Saturday night on CBSSN
 

(photo by Charles Yellowfeather)
WICHITA, Kansas (March 31, 2017) – Last Saturday night at Kansas Star Arena in nearby Mulvane, 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez planted a seed in hopes of growing Wichita into a fight town, as world champions Terence Crawford and Deontay Wilder have already accomplished in the respective hometowns, Omaha (NE) and Birmingham (AL).
More than 3,100 fans purchased tickets Hernandez’ successfully professional debut, stopping Pat Gutierrez in the fourth round.  To put that attendance figure in its proper perspective, Wichita has a population of less than 400,000 and in this hoop-crazed state, the appropriately named “KO Night Boxing: History Begins” went head-to-head with the popular Kansas Jayhawks quintet playing on national television in the Elite Eight of the NCAA college basketball championship, as well as The Wichita Force playing at home in indoor football.
The 21-year-old Hernandez is practically a sports franchise in Wichita, second only to the Wichita State University (WSU) men’s basketball team.  The city turned out in force at a parade honoring Hernandez upon his return home from the Olympics and WSU awarded him an open-ended four-year college scholarship.
 
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins” Encore Presentation this Saturday night
The encore presentation of last Saturday’s “KO Night Boxing: History Begins,” featuring the pro debut of 2016 Olympic Bronze medalist Nico Hernandez, will air this Saturday (April 1), starting at 8:30 p.m. ET, on CBS Sports Network.
“The show was a huge success and Nico, as a pro fighter, produced a more complete body of work than we had expected,” Hernandez’ promoter John Andersen (KO Night Boxing) said.  “I was very impressed.  His amateur background converted to an even better pro style.  It really showed his potential and that’s one of the primary reasons we signed him. We really believed in Nico.  He is the only fighter we have signed, right now; Nico is our stable!  We see things from a different angle than big-time promoters.  We understood that he’s a hometown hero, so we had him headline at home his pro debut on national television (CBS Sports Network).  We produce our shows on television and we enjoy telling stories like Nico’s.  We’d like to come right back to Wichita with Nico fighting in June.”
Lifelong Kansas Sean Wheelock, a non-paid member of the Kansas Athletic Commission that oversees boxing, in addition to calling last Saturday’s fights as a member of the KO Night Boxing announcing team on CBS Sports Network, has a unique perspective on the significance of last Saturday evening’s in terms of local boxing history.
“It was huge for Kansas boxing,” Wheelock explained, “the biggest show in this state since the Tommy Morrison Era (early-to-mid 1990’s).  Morrison was an adopted son, though. Nico was born here and he has a deep investment in the Wichita community.  Drawing 3000-plus for his pro debut, in a non-boxing market, was phenomenal and he has the potential to do what Crawford has done in Omaha and Wilder in Birmingham.  Boxing has strong roots in Kansas and across the Midwest, but MMA has taken over and lately, most boxing in Kansas has been on hybrid shows with MMA and kickboxing.
“Fans were loudly chanting, ‘Nico’ and ‘316’ (Wichita’s area code) before, during and after his fight. I’ve never heard fans chanting for a city like they did, ‘Wichita’, for an individual athlete.  And they were also chanting ‘USA’.  As a native Kansas, I’m proud that this state has become more ethnically and culturally diverse with more Hispanics living in Wichita.  Nico is engaged in the Hispanic community and he is a fantastic kid, too.  Because of his personality and fighting style, he can draw locally from Wichita, throughout all of Kansas, and nationally among Hispanics and Americans across the country because of his accomplishment in the Olympics.”
Hernandez is also fighting in one of the hottest divisions in boxing — 115-pound junior bantamweight/super flyweight — showcasing name fighters such as Naoya Inoue, Roman Gonzalez, Carlos Cuadras, Juan Francisco Estrada and recent addition Srisaket Sor Rungvisai.  Conspicuously absent, however, are top 20 ranked American fighters in this weight class, excluding 36-year-old Brian Viloria, the four-time, two-division (junior flyweight and flyweight) world champion.  The opportunity is right there for Hernandez to quickly establish himself as the preeminent American boxer in this weight class.
“There’s no reason for Nico to fight outside of Wichita for a couple of years as he develops,” Andersen noted.  “I feel that he can win a regional title next year. Our goal is to have him in a world title fight position within three years.  Our goal is to get him 13 to 15 fights and then promote a super fight in Wichita.  He started out in a six-round fight.  I think he’ll only have a couple more and then move up to eight-round bouts.
“Nico doesn’t waste a lot of punches, so the number of scheduled rounds won’t be a problem for him. Another fighter would have punched himself out in two rounds, fighting at home in front of a crowed like he had supporting him, but Nico showed tremendous poise, settling down and putting his punches together very well.  He didn’t chase Gutierrez, he effectively cut off the ring, and his powerful body attack was something he didn’t do as an amateur.  We wanted to see how he reacted to resistance and he passed that test with flying colors.”
Andersen noted that his company has promoted several successful shows, noting the big difference is last weekend’s show featured a world-class fighter in Hernandez.  “Making the Olympics was a big deal for Nico,” Andersen added, “whether he medaled or not.  Nico is to us what Manny Pacquiao is to Top Rank, ‘Canelo’ Alvarez to Golden Boy. We’re lucky to start out with a fighter like Nico.  Fighting in Wichita was risk for everybody but it’s already paying dividends.
“We know who and what we are as a promotional company.  Nico is our top priority, our only fighter right now, and now we have a great opportunity to build off last weekend’s success.  We give Nico all the attention he deserves and he’s going to take advantage of this situation.  And we also discovered that there’s some other talented boxers in this market. Whit Hayden did a wonderful job making very competitive fights.  That’s his history, he never has blowouts.  Whit is one of the most knowledgeable people I know in boxing.  He’s the perfect matchmaker to guide Nico’s career, along with Nico’s father (head trainer) Lewis Hernandez, who we work closely with in many ways, in and out of the ring.”
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Neonstarmedia, @KONightBoxing
Follow on Twitter & Instagram: @Nicomhernandez
About Neon Star Sports & Entertainment (NSSE)
NSSE is a content company whose focus is creating original and joint venter media properties – unscripted, scripted, events and digital programming – for cross-platform distribution.  In this highly competitive digital age, NSSE specializes in the development and production of corporate branding designed with your target audience and accelerated consumer growth in mind.  Visit us on Twitter @Neonstarmedia or Facebook www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media. REV Sports Entertainment Inc. (MAVTV Canada) and Neon Star Media LLC are subsidiary companies of Neon Star Sports & Entertainment Inc.
boxing

DAMIEN VASQUEZ FACES VETERAN LORENZO TREJO APRIL 1ST

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LAS VEGAS, NV (March 31, 2017) – This Saturday, April 1, 2017, undefeated flyweight prospect, Damien “Sugar” Vasquez (9-0, 4 KOs), will step in the ring against Lorenzo Trejo (35-32-1, 22 KOs), a veteran of sixty-eight fights.  The 8-round main event, will take place at the Riverebend Sports Complex in Salt Lake City, UT.
Damien, the nephew of former two-time super-bantamweight world champion, Israel Vazquez, fights out of Las Vegas, NV, with trainer, Bones Adams.  Adams, a former super-bantamweight champion himself, feels Damien Vasquez has all the talent to follow in the footsteps of his uncle Israel.
“Since I’ve been training with Damien, I’ve watched him grow as a fighter,” said Clarence “Bones” Adams. “He’s getting better with each fight and I really believe he can win a world title someday.  He definitely has the talent and work ethic to do so.  He reminds me of his uncle Israel in many ways.”
Facing a veteran like Trejo, is just the type of fight Damien is looking for.  Vasquez wants to face fighters with a lot of experience.
“I’m sure Trejo has a lot of tricks up his sleeve with all his experience,” said Damien Vasquez. “These are the type of fights I look forward too, where a young fighter like myself can learn a few things.  I’m going to set the pace early, and go from there.  By no means am I taking him lightly.”
Vasquez’s father Oscar, has been in his sons corner from day one.  He’s thrilled, knowing his son has progressed since his first pro fight.
“I’m very proud of my son because I know how hard he works, and I can see the improvement after every fight,” said Oscar Vasquez. “My brother and I always knew he had the talent to become a good professional boxer.  I’m confident he’ll come out victorious against a tough veteran like Trejo.”
boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Former Title Challenger Edner Cherry and Once-Beaten Omar Douglas Training Camp Quotes

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Lightweight Clash Headlines Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes Tuesday, April 4 From Sands Bethlehem Events Center in Bethlehem, Pa.
 
Plus! Battle of Unbeaten Featherweights Stephen Fulton & Luis Rosario While Bethlehem’s Frank DeAlba
Meets Exciting Brawler Ryan Kielczweski in
Super Featherweight Showdown
 
Tickets on Sale Now!
BETHLEHEM, PA. (March 31, 2017) – Former title challenger Edner Cherry (35-7-2, 19 KOs) and once-beaten Omar Douglas (17-1, 12 KOs) made their final camp statements before engaging in a 10-round lightweight bout that headlines Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes, Tuesday, April 4 from Sands Bethlehem Events Center in Bethlehem, Pa.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features an eight-round showdown between unbeaten featherweight prospects Stephen Fulton (10-0, 5 KOs) and Luis Rosario (8-0-1, 7 KOs) plus Bethlehem’s Frank DeAlba (21-2-2-, 9 KOs) taking on Massachusetts-native Ryan Kielczweski (26-2, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight attraction.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $50, $75 and $100, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available atwww.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.
Cherry of Wauchula, Florida has had a smooth camp while training in the Sunshine State and is ready for the 46th start of his professional start.
“Everything is good, and we will be prepared for everything on April 4th,” said the 34-year-old Cherry.
“On April 4th, whatever Douglas brings, we will be prepared for.  This is not the first time, that I’ve been in this position. He is the guy who has to prove he can perform.  I have been there before, so the pressure is on him.”
Cherry has been a top contender at both the 130 and 135 pound divisions, and he even challenged for a world title at 140 pounds. He believes there are many reasons that he has remained a viable contender who has only lost once in the last nine years and 13 fights.
“I am motivated and I believe in myself,” said Cherry. “Those are the reasons that I am still here at the top of the 130 and 135 divisions.  My family gives me drive every day.  April 4th will be another great fight.  This is my job and I have to go out and do it well.”
Cherry believes a win should gain him another crack at a world title.
“A win definitely puts me ahead.  It will open doors for better fights and better paydays.  A title shot is what I want.  But also a bigger money fight that will take care of my family.”
Douglas has been training at home in Delaware, has been working hard for this fight, which could be a breakthrough fight on the heels of his narrow defeat to former world champion Javier Fortuna last November.
“Everything is great.  This has been a long camp.  I have been getting great work,” said the 26- year-old Douglas.
“I am the better fighter.  I have known about him for a long time.  I watched him a lot when he fought on Friday Night Fights.”
That fight with Fortuna was a major step up, and Douglas had a lot of positive moments, as he dropped the former champion in the 1st round, only to lose by three points on two cards and one point on a third card.
“The Fortuna fight let me know and let the people know that Omar Douglas is a world class fighter.  Even in a loss, people did not expect me to do well. I thought that I showed a lot that night and I will carry that confidence into this fight on April 4th.”
Douglas believes that a win over Cherry is his path to a world title.
“I think that it is time.  I just happen to be crossing paths with Cherry.  This fight makes sense for me.  I will let people know that I am player at 130 pounds, and a win will earn me a title shot.  I have shown that I will fight anyone.  Look at the records of my previous opponents. Fortuna was 30-1 and one fight removed from being a world champion.  Alexei Collado was 19-1; Frank De Alba was 17-1.  So wins over those guys plus Cherry should have me right there, but I am focusing on Edner Cherry.  He is a great veteran, but on Tuesday night I will be victorious.”
#          #          #
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, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

Busy May & June for M-1 Global

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ST. PETERSBURG, Russia (March 31, 2017) – M-1 Global president Vadim Finkelchtein (pictured above) has announced five M-1 Challenge events to be held this May and June.
Below is a Q & A with the veteran MMA promoter:
Can you tell us about plans for upcoming M-1 Global events?
VF: “In the next 2-3 months we will promote an extremely full schedule of events. Through the middle of June, we will promote five – I’m not afraid to use these words – grandiose tournaments. April 22nd there’s an event being held in Nazran, which was arranged with the support of the local government, and dedicated to the 25th anniversary of Ingushetia. On May 19th, in collaboration with Rostec and Rosoboronexport corporations, we will hold a truly spectacular event in Sochi. Our traditional tournament in Orenburg is set for May 26th, which regularly takes place at the highest level with a crowded venue. On June 1st, we will hold another event in St. Petersburg as part of the International Economic Forum program. And already on June 15 – A major tournament will be held June 15th in Harbin, China,  during the program of the Russian-Chinese Expo. Both in St. Petersburg and China, we are included in the official program, so we will be participating in truly large-scale events.”
Fans are interested in fighters whose performances will decorate these tournaments. Can you reveal some of the competing fighters?
VF: “We will really surprise the audience at these events. A lot of negotiations are ongoing, including those with fighters who are the TopP-20 ranked fighters in the world. There will also be fights involving new fighters. Of course, we intend to make fights that fans have been waiting for a long time. One is the is the Idrisov vs. Buchinger rematch and, of course, probably the most anticipated fight in Russian MMA today, Shlemenko vs Emeev.”
The fight between Alexander Shlemenko and Ramazan Emeev had already been postponed twice. What prevents this fight from being canceled for the third time?
VF: “The desire of the two fighters can play the major role here. Everything has been done on our side. Alexander Shlemenko is ready for this fight. We’re waiting word back from Ramazan Emeev. This fight is interesting for fans and we will try to make it happen. People are starting to understand more and more about MMA and we are making fights that our fans want to happen. Not only does this apply to Shlemenko and Emeev. but for other popular fighters as well, including undefeated M-1 welterweight champion Alexey Kunchenko, top lightweight Artiom Damkovsky, Damir Ismagulov, Sergey Romanov and many others. We try to sign contracts with only fighters who want to be in spectacular fights. Look at the last events in Moscow. Were any of the 11 fights boring? No! Even in undercard matches we have fighters who deliver exciting fights and often early finishes. This is the hallmark of our promotion. We do not hold uninteresting events or boring fights.”
Today, many promotions sign fighters who were fired from UFC. Why are you not doing this?
VF: “Certainly in that way. If fighters are interesting to the Russian public and well known, we will sign him. Otherwise, I believe that it is wrong to sign, so to speak, cast-off fighters. This will not add credibility and strengthen our organization in the MMA world. We do that a different way. We build stars that UFC chases. It may be more difficult but M-1 is more respected by the West for doing it this way. Look, those fighters who leave M-1 for the UFC leave because they’ve been developed through serious schooling, as we do not feed them “tomato cans” opponents. We do not make easy fights for anybody. Marcin Tybura, Rashid Magomedov, Mairbek Taisumov, Alexey Oleinik, Islam Makhachev, Alexander Volkov, etc. All of them are our former fighters. They were not known at the beginning of their careers but now they are all doing excellent. Fighters of the other promoters who moved in UFC are often fired after a while because, here in Russia, they did not face tough opposition.”
How do you fight the departure of your fighters to the West? 
VF: “Here, I disagree with you. It used to be that way. Now, to the contrary, many fighters want to perform in M-1 because it is no less prestigious than performing for Bellator, where the emphasis is on the show. Example of this are Alexander Shlemenko, Sergei Kharitonov, and others. These warriors gladly come to us and agree to fight here because the opposition in M-1 is not weak. Of course, regarding the departure of the fighters to the West, money plays a great role. But there are fighters who are grateful to M-1 for fame they gained.  We paved the road to a greatness for them and, consequently, they do not rush to leave M-1 anywhere.”
INFORMATION:

www.M1Global.tv

Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
@VFinkelchtein
@M1Global
Facebook:
boxing, mixed martial arts, MMA, Rich Bergeron, Tom Padgett, Tony Penecale

March 30, 2017 FNU Combat Sports Show: King Mo vs. Rampage Preview, Arum says UFC will take half of Conor’s purse against Floyd

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Tom, Rich and Tony break down last week’s big fights and preview the upcoming week’s combat sports cards. The main focus is Bellator 175 in MMA this week. We also discuss some of the latest news, such as a claim made by Bob Arum that the UFC wants to take half of Conor MacGregor’s purse when and if he fights Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a boxing match. We also have a good laugh about Rampage Jackson being mad at King Mo Lawal for “fat shaming” him..  Rampage’s defense is vintage Cartman from South Park: “I’m not fat, I’m just big boned.”

boxing

 PHILLY PROMOTER ARTIE PELLULO: “FLANAGAN-PETROV STEALS THE SHOW AND COULD BE FIGHT OF THE YEAR!”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA / Manchester, UK (March 30, 2017)–Legendary Philadelphia fight face Artie Pellulo lands in the UK early next week confident of adding a 45th world champion to his stellar CV.
The 61 year old Italian-American’s highly regarded lightweight Petr Petrov (38-4-2) makes a mandatory challenge to home hero ‘Turbo Terry’ Flanagan, the undefeated WBO king, at Manchester Arena on Saturday week and he looks like being frantic. BT Sport and BoxNation screen live in the UK.
Last Wednesday, Glynn Evans spoke to the Philly-based promoter.
It’s been extremely difficult to find any background info regarding Petrov’s personality. Can you enlighten us?
I’ve been promoting fighters for almost 30 years now, including 44 world champions and I have to say that Petr is one of the nicer individuals I’ve come across; the type you’d have over your house. He’s just married the girl he’d been dating for a very long time. He’s a gentleman, a pleasure to work with.
Psychologically, how will he cope performing before thousands of baying Brits?
I’ve consistently gone on record as saying that the British fight fans are terrific. You’ll recall I had dealings with Ricky Hatton. They support their heroes like no other. But I guarantee that the crowd will not adversely affect Petrov.
Being on the road is actually like being at home for him because he’s never ever fought in Russia and hasn’t featured in his adopted homeland of Spain for five years. He’s won all six of his fights in the US and, before that, he competed in Germany, Argentina and Montenegro. I guarantee that facing a partisan crowd in Manchester will not affect his job. In fact, it will energize him, excite him.
And I’ve no problem whatsoever with the officials in the UK. Matter of fact, I won my first world title in Britain when Otis Grant outpointed Ryan Rhodes in his hometown of Sheffield for the vacant WBO Middleweight title way back in (December) 1997.
Before that, my fighter Tyrell Biggs was officially ahead on the referee’s card before Gary Mason knocked him out on a Mickey Duff show at the Royal Albert Hall (October 1989) and John Thompson was up on the cards before Liam Smith put him to bed at this very venue 18 months back. You always get a fair shake with the Brits.
What are Petrov’s qualities as a fighter?
I discovered him during his involvement in the ESPN Boxcino Lightweight tournament in early 2014 and, trust me, between the ropes, he’s the real deal. You only have to watch his tapes to appreciate that he’s relentless, smart, can box or punch and he’s blessed with a very good eye. Petr has a real understanding of what is going on in the ring at any given moment and he can adopt accordingly. He gives a 110% effort every time.
What is your assessment of champion Flanagan? What does Petrov need to be mindful of?
I was ringside the night Terry Flanagan hammered Diego Magdaleno in two rounds because John Thompson challenged Liam Smith that night and what I saw was a very, very good fighter. Terry’s a smart southpaw who’s very tough and keeps coming. No doubt, he’ll be looking to extend his very impressive unbeaten streak.
What course did you see the fight taking? What key factor will determine the winner?
This fight steals the show and could well be Fight of the Year, seriously. It’s that good a match up. Both Terry and Petr are TV friendly and fan friendly. It’s gonna be great theatre.
There’s no main factor that distinguishes one over the other. It’ll be about how two fighters at the very top of their games handle the pressure and stay with their game plan.
Tickets for April 8 priced £50, £70, £100, £150, £200, £300 and VIP £500 are available from eventim at www.eventim.co.uk and 0844 249 1000 and the Manchester Arena at www.manchester-arena.com and 0844 847 8000.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

Undefeated Heavyweight Contender Luis Ortiz Battles Long Island’s Derric Rossy Saturday, April 22 in Premier Boxing Champions Event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn

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Plus! Brooklyn’s Amanda Serrano Looks to Make History When She Fights for a World Title in a Fifth Weight Class

&

Undefeated Prospects Jose Miguel Borrego & Jonathan Alonso Battle While Unbeaten Julian Sosa & 2016 Haitian Olympian

Richardson Hitchins Enter the Ring

 

Click HERE for Press Conference Photos from Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Press Conference Photos from Ed Diller/

DiBella Entertainment

 

BROOKLYN (March 30, 2017) – Unbeaten heavyweight contender Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz (27-0, 23 KOs) will return to the ring to take on Long Island’s Derric Rossy (31-12, 15 KOs) in a 10-round showdown Saturday, April 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event live from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

Also competing in undercard action is four-division world champion Amanda “Real Deal” Serrano (31-1-1, 23 KOs) who will look to make history by becoming the first woman and the first Puerto Rican fighter to win a fifth world title in five different weight classes. Both the Ortiz vs. Rossy and Serrano bouts were announced at a press conference in New York City on Thursday.

 

SHOWTIME Boxing coverage of the Ortiz vs. Rossy and Serrano bouts will be announced in the coming days.

 

The April 22 event is headlined by former world champions Andre Berto and Shawn Porter battling in a welterweight world title eliminator. Televised coverage of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME and also features unbeaten super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo defending against top contender Charles Hatley.

 

Additional undercard attractions feature a group of unbeaten prospects as Mexico’s Jose Miguel Borrego (11-0, 10 KOs) battles 2012 Spanish Olympian Jonathan Alonso(12-0, 4 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight showdown, Julian Sosa (7-0-1, 2 KOs) entering the ring in a six-round welterweight fight and 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round junior welterweight bout.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Charlo vs. Hatley fight is co-promoted by TGB Promotions and Don King Promotions.

 

One of the most feared heavyweights in the world, Ortiz has worked his way into the WBA’s mandatory position to fight the winner of the Anthony Joshua-Wladimir Klitschko, who fight for Joshua’s IBF and the vacant WBA Super World Championship. The Cuban-born fighter had previously picked up the interim title in 2015 with a stoppage of Matias Ariel Vidondo and defended the title with a dominant knockout of former title challenger Bryant Jennings later that year. Last year saw Ortiz continue to run through heavyweight contenders as he earned TKO victories over Tony Thompson and David Allen plus a victory over Malik Scott.

 

Fighting out of Medford, New York, Rossy was a 2004 Golden Gloves champion and a defensive end for Boston College before turning pro in October 2004. Rossy owns victories over Axror Muralimov, Ray Mercer and Carl Drumond in addition to challenges top heavyweights Eddie Chambers, Vyacheslav Glazkov and Bermane Stiverne. This will be the ninth undefeated fighter that Rossy faces in his pro career.

 

Raised in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn, Serrano gravitated toward boxing from watching her older sister Cindy, also a professional fighter. She picked the sport up quickly, amassing a 9-1 record during a brief amateur career in which she won the New York Golden Gloves title in 2008. The 28-year-old would go on to fight all over the world, seizing her first world title in 2011 when she defeated Kimberly Connor to grab a super featherweight belt. In 2014, she went to Argentina and defeated Maria Elena Maderna to become a world champion at lightweight. Her world title climb continued in 2016 as she stopped Olivia Gerula in the first round to capture her featherweight championship and followed that up with a victory over Alexandra Lazar to add a super bantamweight title to her collection. She most recently put on a show at Barclays Center in January when she defeated two-division champion Yazmin Rivas by unanimous decision.

 

Here is what the participants had to say Thursday from Gallagher’s Steakhouse in Manhattan:

 

LUIS ORTIZ

 

“I’m not a man of many words, but yesterday was my birthday, so with that extra year of experience, I’ll speak a little bit more.

 

“I’m ready to fight right now. I’m waiting for the opportunity to fight the winner of Anthony Joshua vs. Wladimir Klitschko. They better get ready, because ‘King Kong’ will be waiting for them.

 

“I work very hard to stay in shape. All year round I am in the gym and staying ready. When the time comes and I have a fight offered, I will always be ready.

 

“My plan is to become the heavyweight champion of the world. I feel like I’m with the right team now that will open those doors for me. Whoever they put in front of me, I will take care of them.

 

“I love fighting in New York because there are such smart fans here who really love boxing. They love the knockout and I’m excited to be here to do my job.

 

“I’ve been working hard and waiting to get a victory on April 22. Once I get past this bout, it’s on to bigger and better things. I’ll find out everything about Rossy that I need to know on April 22 and put on a great show.

 

“Age is nothing to me. So many fighters have competed into their late age. I still have a lot left in the tank.

 

“I would love to fight Deontay Wilder. We’re both big, tough fighters. These are the kind of fights that people want to see. I know that my time will come.

 

“We’re looking forward to this new relationship and this first fight on April 22. I can’t wait to get out there in front of the fans and show my skills. I believe it will finally be time for ‘King Kong’ to come out of the jungle.”

 

DERRIC ROSSY

 

“When they brought the fight to me, I said let’s do it. We’re doing it right by fighting at Barclays Center.

 

“This is a real fight. I’m always ready. The fans are who pays us and they want to see a legitimate fight. This is going to be a quality matchup on April 22.

 

“I think our styles will match up well. He throws his hands well and I think I do the same. I sometimes try to be more evasive and I’m anticipating him bringing it. There might be some bull in a China shop, but then it could turn. We both adapt well in the ring.

 

“You can’t ask for anything better than this kind of fight. We’re both top-notch heavyweights and we’re going to go at it. It’s a thrill for me to be there regardless, but I think the fans are really going to be the winners.

 

“I’ve fought a lot of really good heavyweights. I won’t know how he stacks up until I get in there with him. All I know is that he’s tough, rugged and good.

 

“My situation is that I always have to stay ready in the gym. I happened to be ready when the call came and I said yes as soon as I could.

 

“I’m going to win this fight and it’s going to set up some big things. I’m in this business to get a world title. I have to go through Luis Ortiz to get there.”

 

AMANDA SERRANO

 

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and put on a show in front of the fans. That’s what I love to do and it’ll be great to do it at Barclays Center.

 

“I’m motivated to make history. This would be my sixth world title in five weight divisions. This is a goal that my whole team has had. We want me to be the first Puerto Rican fighter to conquer five divisions. I want to be known as the girl who made history.

 

“I think every fighter wants to be known as the best in the world. If I’m not the best, I want to be one of the best. I want to be remembered and open the door for girls around the world.

 

“I’m very thankful for everyone who came out here today. This is a great opportunity for me on April 22. I’m going for history. I want this so badly. I train hard and I have a great team taking care of me.

 

“What better place to make history than at Barclays Center in Brooklyn? No matter who they put in front of me, it’s going to be a night of fireworks. I’m doing this for female boxing. I’m going to show how much talent we have. This is the one that I want more than anything. I always put on a show for my fans in Brooklyn and my eyes are on the prize.”

 

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

 

“I’m really happy today to announce some great additions to a terrific card on April 22 in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME. Everyone knows the main event is a great fight in the welterweight division. We also announced a 154-pound matchup as the co-main event with Jermell Charlo vs. Charles Hatley.

 

“The biggest announcement is that a very big man, is going to be on this card. All Luis Ortiz has done as a professional fighter is knock guys out. He’s one of the most feared and avoided men in the heavyweight division. Ortiz and his team want the biggest fights out there. He knows that being seen on a card of this magnitude is a tremendous opportunity.

 

“I know that Luis Ortiz has a big victory in mind on April 22 that will propel him to a bigger fight and eventually to the biggest fights in the world. This guy deserves the opportunity.

 

“Amanda Serrano is a great champion. She’s one of the best pound-for-pound female fighters I the world today. No female fighter in history has ever won five titles in five weight classes. But it’s even more amazing, given the long history of the sport on the island, that no Puerto Rican fighter has ever become a five-division world champion. On April 22 Amanda Serrano will attempt to make history.

 

“Amanda has won titles as heavy as 135-pounds and now she’ll be fighting at 118-pounds. That’s an amazing achievement. She’s always fought the best out there and she’s always proven that she is the best. She deserves the attention she’s getting. She may be the best fighter I promote, period. This woman stands should-to-shoulder with any of them.”

 

“I know that Derric Rossy is going to give a test to Ortiz. But he’s never been predicted to win. Every time I watch his fight against Bermane Stiverne, I saw him winning the fight. This guy is a real professional and he deserves this opportunity.

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

 

“We’re thrilled to be here announcing such a fantastic undercard from top to bottom. Amanda Serrano is looking to become the first woman and Puerto Rican to win world titles in five weight classes. A card this deep, you know that it is a SHOWTIME card.

 

“These are the kind of cards that SHOWTIME, Lou DiBella and Barclays Center are working on every day. This was a good event and now it is a great event.”

 

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment

 

“It’s been a special start to the year for Brooklyn Boxing. You think about January 14 and March 4 and what great nights those were. Now we have April 22 and it has become a special card. We’re excited about what we’re building in Brooklyn. We’re making great strides.

 

“I want to welcome Luis Ortiz to Barclays Center for the first time. I’m sure it will be a special night. We’re thrilled to welcome back Amanda Serrano as well for what should be a historic night.

 

“We’re going to continue to put on the biggest and best events we can. It’s been a great start to the year and we’re looking forward to more to come.”

 

#          #          #

 

ABOUT BERTO vs. PORTER                    

Andre Berto vs. Shawn Porter is a WBC welterweight world title eliminator between former 147-pound world champions. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday April 22 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event, undefeated super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo battles top rated challenger Charles Hatley, with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @AndreBerto, @ShowtimeShawnP, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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“PHILLY STRONG” PROSPECTS ENNIS AND FOLLY STEP UP FRIDAY AT 2300 ARENA

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Philadelphia – March 30, 2017 – Tomorrow night at 2300 Arena, two of Philadelphia’s most promising prospects top “Philly Strong,” a nine-bout card, and both are expecting their toughest fights to date.
In the main event, Jaron “Boots” Ennis (9-0, 8KO) will seek his tenth victory when he faces veteran James “Shotgun” Winchester (20-12, 8KO) of Reidsville, North Carolina.  The six round, welterweight matchup will be Ennis’ toughest to date.  Winchester is coming off three consecutive wins, and steps into the ring having faced world class competition throughout his career.   Winchester went the distance with Matt Korobov (27-1, 14KO), Glen Tapia (23-4, 15KO), Eddie Gomez (19-2, 11KO), and Terrell Gausha (20-0, 9KO) and others. Ennis was victorious in his last outing at 2300 Arena, knocking out Elvin Perez in under a minute.
In the co-main event, Manny “Major Pain” Folly (9-0, 7KO) takes on Dominican Republic’s Luis Hinojosa (30-10, 17KO) in a six round bout at super bantamweight.  Hinijosa enters the ring the more experienced fighter, and fought Claudio Marrero (21-1, 15KO) prior to his last two fights, which were both decision wins.  Folly had an impressive showing in his last fight, knocking out Mexico’s Carlos Morgan (13-5, 6KO) in the first round in January.
Local Philadelphia fighters Keenan Smith (10-0, 4KO) and Joshua Jones (3-0-1, 2KO) will be featured in separate bouts on Friday, along with New Jersey’s Darren Goodall (4-0, 3KO) and Coachella welterweight sensation Brandun Lee (1-0, 1KO), who made his debut at Victory Boxing’s January card in Philadelphia.
Tickets for Philly Strong start at $40, and are available at 2300Arena.com or by calling (267) 273-0945. Doors at 2300 Arena open at 6:00 p.m. and first bell is at 7:00.
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Palm Springs Boxing Gala Rescheduled for May 20th;  Fighter Injuries Delaying Scheduled Matchups

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Thousand Palms, CA (March 29, 2017) — The much anticipated showdown between rising Liveco boxer Max “The General” Becerra and Washington’s Ricardo Maldonado will have to wait a little longer.
Santa Ana’s Becerra (11-2-2 7KOs) has been diagnosed with a minor hand injury that has interrupted his training for the scheduled April 22 bout that was the featured fight of the Palm Springs Boxing Gala at the Renaissance Hotel. The event will now take place on Saturday, May 20 with the same fight card.
The postponement also gives Liveco stablemate Pomona’s David “Left Hook” Lopez (4-0 3KOs) more time to heal while nursing a hand injury also sustained in training.

Liveco Boxing founder Ron Sanderson said, “In light of these injuries, we thought it would be best for our boxers and our fans to postpone the Gala rather than scramble together fights at the last minute or drop a fighter from the card. Injuries are a part of boxing. These boxers are significant players in the Liveco family and we want them to be healthy and uncompromised for their fights.”

Sanderson said Lopez and Becerra’s hand issues are not considered major injuries, but after further medical evaluation, their trainers decided it would be better for them to fully heal and train appropriately rather than put their fighters at risk.

The May 20 event is the second of a series of Boxing Galas planned by Liveco Boxing featuring its fighters in Palm Springs. Also scheduled to fight on the undercard that evening are the Bay Area’s Eric “El Gallo de Oro” (9-0 6KOs) and Daniel “El Pantera” Andujo (3-1-0 1KO) from Murrieta along with other California talent.

Becerra and Lopez dispatched their opponents at the first Palm Springs Boxing Gala with tremendous showings in front of a packed house. Both are looking to continue their streak in the Coachella Valley as is Andujo who also collected a win at the Gala in February before signing with Liveco.

Becerra said he was anxious and ready for his first fight as a headliner, especially in his home state. “This is going to be a huge night for me and my team. But I know I need to be patient and get my hand back in shape before I can continue chasing my dream.”
Tickets starting at $60 are available at www.livecoboxing.com. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/livecoboxing; and follow on Twitter and Instagram at @livecoboxing.
About Liveco Boxing:
Liveco Boxing is a boxing promoter and event producer founded by Ron Sanderson in 2016 who was looking to bring back a high standard of ethics to the industry. Liveco’s “Fighter First” philosophy makes them the company of choice for professional fighters looking for a hands-on, personal approach to promotion. For more information, visit, www.livecoboxing.com.
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ANDRZEJ FONFARA BACK IN THE GYM TRAINING WITH VIRGIL HUNTER, WAITING FOR NEXT CHALLENGE

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Photo by Stephanie Trapp
BAY AREA, CA (March 29, 2017) – WBC #7 light-heavyweight contender, Andrzej Fonfara (29-4, 17 KOs), is back in the Bay Area, CA, training with Virgil Hunter.  After scoring a technical knockout in his last fight against former world champion, Chad Dawson(34-5, 19 KOs), Fonfara is ready for the next challenge as he looks to get back into a world title fight.
“I took a few weeks off to rest my body, but now I’m ready to get back in the gym training with Virgil Hunter,” said Fonfara. “I’m making the proper sacrifices, coming to California with no fight date, because I know in this sport your name can be called at any time.”
With a possible date looming, Fonfara feels he’s back on track to fight all top contenders in the light-heavyweight division.
“I’m in a great position being ranked in number seven by the WBC.” Fonfara continued.  “I just want to stay sharp and be ready for any fight that might come my way.  Training with Virgil now is only going to make me a better fighter.  I’ll be ready for anyone that my team puts in front of me.”