All posts by FNU47

FULL FIGHT CARD ANNOUNCED FOR SATURDAY’S BELLATOR 220: MACDONALD VS. FITCH INSIDE THE SAP CENTER AT SAN JOSE – EXCLUSIVELY ON DAZN


SAN JOSE, Calif. – All 18 bouts for the highly anticipated Bellator 220: MacDonald vs. Fitch event, streamed exclusively on DAZN, have been announced when Bellator returns home to the SAP Center at San Jose on Saturday, April 27.


Two title fights sit atop the card, as Bellator welterweight champion Rory MacDonald (20-5) defends his title world against Jon Fitch (31-7-1, 1 NC) in the final opening round bout of the Welterweight World Grand Prix, while undefeated Bellator flyweight champion Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (9-0) returns to action against Veta Arteaga (5-2) in the evening’s co-headliner.

 

Bellator220: MacDonald vs. Fitch will stream live exclusively on DAZN, the fastest-growing sports streaming service in the world, at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, while preliminary action will stream on Bellator.com and globally on the Bellator Mobile App.

 

Limited tickets remain available at the ThreatMetrix Ticket Office at SAP Center at San Jose, as well as Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.

 

Three former world champions will also appear on the main card, as Benson Henderson (26-8) takes on the Bay Area’s own Adam Piccolotti (11-2) at lightweight, while Phil Davis(19-5, 1 NC) will run it back with Liam McGeary (13-3) in light heavyweight action. Additionally, featherweight Gaston Bolanos (4-1) looks to add to his impressive highlight reelwhen he kicks off the main card versus Nathan Stolen (8-4).

 
 

Preliminary action for Bellator 220: MacDonald vs. Fitch will feature the U.S. debut of second-generation Israeli fighter Aviv Gozali (1-0) in his sophomore appearance againstTravis Crain (Pro Debut).

 

Complete Bellator 220: MacDonald vs. Fitch Main Card:

Welterweight World Grand Prix Title Bout: Rory MacDonald (20-5) vs. Jon Fitch (32-7-1, 1 NC)

Women’s Flyweight World Title Bout: Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (9-0) vs. Veta Arteaga (5-2)

Lightweight Main Card Bout: Benson Henderson (26-8) vs. Adam Piccolotti (11-2)

Light Heavyweight Main Card Bout: Phil Davis (19-5, 1 NC) vs. Liam McGeary (13-3) 

Featherweight Main Card Bout: Gaston Bolanos (4-1) vs. Nathan Stolen (8-4)

 

Preliminary Card:

Lightweight Undercard Bout: Aviv Gozali (1-0) vs. Travis Crain (Pro Debut) 

160-lb. Catchweight Undercard Bout: Chris Avila (6-7) vs. Brandon Faumui (4-3) 

Flyweight Undercard Bout: Justin Tenedora (2-1) vs. Matt Perez (2-2)

140-lb. Catchweight Undercard Bout: Cass Bell (2-0) vs. Peter Ishiguro (1-0)

Featherweight Undercard Bout: Hyder Amil (2-0) vs. Paradise Vaovasa (6-3, 1 NC) 

140-lb. Catchweight Undercard Bout: Josh San Diego (8-4) vs. Brandon Laroco (5-1)

Middleweight Undercard Bout: Diego Herzog (4-2-1) vs. Jordan Williams (7-2, 1 NC) 

Welterweight Undercard Bout: Justin Roswell (3-2, 1 NC) vs. Abraham Vaesau (4-2, 1 NC) 

Featherweight Undercard Bout: Ignacio Ortiz (2-0) vs. Roger Severson (3-3) 

Light Heavyweight Undercard Bout: Chuck Campbell (1-0) vs. Bruno Casillas (Pro Debut)

Featherweight Undercard Bout: Boris Novachkov (Pro Debut) vs. Chris Inocencio (0-1) 

Welterweight Undercard Bout: Thomas Ponce de Leon (2-0) vs. Jamario Mulder (2-3)

Flyweight Undercard Bout: Erik Gunha (Pro Debut) vs. Jon Adams (Pro Debut) 

 

*Card subject to change

 

Please visit Bellator.com for more information.

UNDEFEATED FEATHERWEIGHT PROSPECT RUBEN VILLA TO FACE ONCE-BEATEN LUIS ALBERTO LOPEZ IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY, MAY 10 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®


Unbeaten Lightweights Michael Dutchover and Ramon Mascarena Jr. Clash in Co-Featured Bout of Tripleheader Live At 10:30 p.m. ET/PT From Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.


 

Tickets Are On Sale NOW


 
NEW YORK – April 23, 2019 – Undefeated featherweight prospect Ruben Villa will face once-beaten and top-15 ranked contender Luis Alberto Lopez in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, May 10 live on SHOWTIME at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.


 
The 22-year-old Villa (15-0, 5 KOs) returns in a 10-round bout for his second consecutive test on the prospect developmental series after dispatching then-unbeaten Ruben Cervera in the first ShoBox telecast of 2019. The two-time National Golden Gloves Amateur Champion and highly touted prospect Villa will take on the Mexican Lopez (17-1, 8 KOs), who is coming off an upset victory over Ray Ximenez in his U.S. debut in February.


 
In the co-feature, fast-rising 21-year-old Texan Michael Dutchover (12-0, 9 KOs) will take on fellow undefeated prospect and former Chilean National Champion Ramon Mascarena Jr. (10-0, 5 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight contest. In the opening bout of the tripleheader that features six fighters with a combined two losses, undefeated bantamweight prospect Saul Sanchez (11-0, 6 KOs) battles Mexican Brandon Leon Benitez (14-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round bout.


 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing, are priced at $125, $75 and $60 and can be purchased online at www.thompsonboxing.com
 or by calling 714-935-0900.


 
“This ShoBox show brings back former amateur standout Ruben Villa in his toughest test to date as he continues his quest to turn from prospect to contender,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of ShoBox: The New Generation. “We get to see for the first time unbeaten Michael Dutchover, who went 130-17 in the amateurs, and now faces his first unbeaten opponent. In the opener, we have ShoBox newcomer and unbeaten Saul Sanchez who will try to stand out against a once beaten opponent.  All three top amateurs, top pro prospects and looking to make a name for themselves as must see fighter.  Only time will tell.”


 
“I am very excited for Ruben [Villa] and Michael [Dutchover],” said Artie Pelullo, President and CEO, Banner Promotions.  “Ruben is headlining the May 10 ShoBox in just his second time on the network. There is a lot of pressure on this 22-year-old, as he is expected to achieve and produce great things due to his amateur background. Michael is the diamond in the rough. Also an amateur standout who has power in either hand, he is looking for this SHOWTIME event to be his coming out party.”


 
“This is our 19th anniversary and what better way to celebrate it than with three of our top prospects fighting on ShoBox,” said Ken Thompson, President, Thompson Boxing. “It will be a real pleasure to put on a heck of a show alongside our friend Artie Pelullo as we witness Ruben [Villa], Michael [Dutchover] and Saul [Sanchez] take huge steps towards stardom.”


 
Villa, who started boxing when he was just five years old, compiled an impressive 166-17 record as an amateur. The Salinas, Calif. native was a two-time Junior Olympic National Champion and the 2014 and 2015 National Golden Gloves Champion. He owns impressive amateur victories over Shakur Stevenson, Davin Haney and Gary Antonio Russell.


 
Villa has registered 15 consecutive professional victories since turning pro in 2016 shortly after the Olympic Trials, including a dominating unanimous decision over Cervera in his ShoBox debut in January. A legitimate prospect, Villa hopes to continue his rapid ascension in the featherweight ranks with an impressive showing against Lopez.


 
“I am very excited to get the opportunity to headline on ShoBox after being the co-feature earlier this year,” said Villa. “I have been working really hard and getting good sparring in Riverside. My opponent is 17-1, and he has won some regional titles. He is no stick in the mud.  I know he comes forward and that should make for an exciting fight. I am looking to put on a great performance because I know a win will open doors for bigger fights.”


 
Lopez, a native of Mexicali, Mexico, is coming off the biggest win of his career. In his U.S. debut and first fight outside of Mexico, Lopez won a technical decision over prospect Ray Ximenez to pick up the vacant WBO International Featherweight title. Ranked the No. 11 featherweight in the world by the WBO, the 21-year-old Lopez has won his last five bouts since suffering his only defeat as a pro to Abraham Montoya in 2018. 


 
“I have a belt for a reason and I’m going to defend it proudly on May 10,” said Lopez. “I know Ruben Villa is regarded as a top prospect, but I know I’m better than him and I’m planning to show the world on May 10th.”


 
The 21-year-old Dutchover, from Midland, Texas, began boxing when he was eight years old compiling a notable amateur record. He was a runner-up at the 2016 National Golden Gloves and a Bronze Medalist in the 2016 Olympic qualifiers. Turning pro in 2016 at the age of 18, Dutchover has won his first 12 professional fights, including knockouts in his last four bouts.


 
“I’m very excited, I’ve been working for this opportunity all my life,” said Dutchover, who now trains in Los Angeles under the tutelage of Danny Zamora. “I know my opponent is tough and durable. Being on ShoBoxis a great opportunity and it is the next steppingstone to reach my ultimate goal, and that is to become world champion.”

Chilean-born Mascarena, who currently resides in Tijuana, Mexico and trains in San Diego, Calif., turned pro in 2017 and has compiled a perfect record through his first ten contests—all within just 12 months. Fighting exclusively in his home country, Mascarena will finally be able to make his U.S. debut after he had a fight fall through in late 2018 and a second fight cancelled in February. Mascarena, who has fought mostly at 140 pounds, has not fought since his unanimous decision victory over Hector Medina 10 months ago.


 
“I’ve been in top share for a while now, I was set to fight in February but my fight got cancelled,” said the 25-year-old Mascarena. “I come from a family of boxers and we take the sweet science very seriously. On May 10, I will not only be fighting to make a good impression in my U.S. debut, I will be fighting for my family and my entire country. I will make them proud.”


 
The 21-year-old Sanchez, of Encino, Calif., began boxing when he was eight and compiled an amateur record of 90-18 before turning pro at 19 years old. Fighting exclusively in his home state of California, Sanchez has built up an 11-0 record under famed trainer Joel Diaz. The brother of featherweight prospect Emilio Sanchez, Saul is coming off a majority decision over Luis Fernando Saavedra but faces a stiff step-up in competition against Benitez.


 
“I’ve always dreamed of having an opportunity like this,” said Sanchez. “To fight on national television against a tough guy like Benitez. I know this fight will not be easy, but I’m ready. I will shine on May 10.”


 
Benitez, from Queretaro, Mexico, has stayed busy in late 2018 and early 2019, fighting four times in a span of six months. The 21-year-old, who fought 186 times as an amateur, is the lone blemish on featherweight prospect Chaise Nelson’s resume. Benitez has won five fights in a row since the only loss of his career, which came to then 10-0 and current 20-0 Mexican Irving Turrubiartes.


 
“I’m young and hungry and I know Saul Sanchez is a great opponent for me, but I’m not concerned about him,” said Benitez. “I don’t think he does anything special in the ring. I do, I’m confident I will win. I’m going for the KO.”


 
Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Chuck McKean directing.


 
# # #


 
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports 
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports
.

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 79 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

 

BOXING LEGEND AND 4 DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION ROY JONES JR. CONFIRMED FOR 5TH ANNUAL BOX FAN EXPO DURING CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 4, IN LAS VEGAS



Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Las Vegas (April 23, 2019) – Boxing legend & four division world champion Roy Jones Jr. has confirmed that he will appear, have a booth and hold a meet and greet with his fans at the fifth annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2019 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Expo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., during Cinco De Mayo weekend. The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the highly anticipated fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Danny Jacobs, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.


Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite – 
http://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

Jones will make his 2nd appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos,personal items and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this Boxing living legend, considered by many as one of the greatest Pound for Pound, and best Boxer of all time.


Jones joins Mayweather Promotions, Anthony Dirrell, WBA, Julio Cesar Chavez, RiddickBowe, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr., Marco Antonio Barrera, Mia St,John, Juan Manuel Marquez, Vinny Paz, Devin Haney, Earnie Shavers, Al Bernstein, Michael Spinks, WBC, Erik Morales, James Toney and Jessie Vargas as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.





About Roy Jones Jr.
Roy Jones Jr. is an American professional boxer who has captured numerous championships in the Middleweight, Super middleweight, Light heavyweight and Heavyweight divisions. He is the only boxer in history to start his career as a junior middleweight, and go on to win a heavyweight title. He is also noted for holding the WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO, NABF, WBF, and IBA light heavyweight championships; a record seven belts at the same time. Jones left his mark in boxing history when he won the WBA heavyweight title, becoming the first former middleweight champion to win a Heavyweight title in 106 years. As of February 2018, Jones holds the record for the most wins in unified light heavyweight title bouts in boxing history, at twelve. The Ring magazine named Jones the Fighter of the Year in 1994, and the World Boxing Hall of Fame named him the Fighter of the Year for 2003. He is also a three-time winner of the Best Boxer ESPY Award (1996, 2000, and 2003). Jones was named “Fighter of the Decade” for the 1990s by the Boxing Writers Association of America.


About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet-and-greet boxing superstars of today, current and former world champions, legends of the sport and other boxing celebrities. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo! 

Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last four Expos such as Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Roy Jones Jr., Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales, Errol Spence Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Pazienza, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Abner Mares, Jorge Linares, Brandon Rios and many more…
Exhibitors include: boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry.


Throughout the next few days leading up to the event, there will be more updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth,

NEF 38 SELLS-OUT IN RECORD TIME; SIXTH STRAIGHT SELLOUT FOR MAINE-BASED FIGHT PROMOTION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (April 22, 2019) – New England Fights (NEF) will present its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 38: STORMBORN,” this April 27, 2019 at Aura in Portland.  Earlier today, the fight promotion announced that tickets for the event were officially sold-out.

The sellout comes a full five days prior to the event, marking a new record for the fight promotion.  The previous record holder, “NEF 37,” sold out three days before that event earlier this year.  This marks the sixth straight sellout for NEF, a streak stretching back to April 2018.

“The NEF brand is stronger than ever and continues to grow,” remarked NEF promoter and co-owner Nick DiSalvo.  “It’s a time where we’re seeing competitors falter around us with half-empty venues and weak fight cards.  But not NEF.  We have been the trendsetter for the way in which we promote our fighters ever since we arrived on the scene in 2012.  And it shows in the numbers we have done, and continue to do, at the box office.”

“We have competitors flying in from all over the country for ‘Stomborn,'” said NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson.  “With four title fights, three women’s fights, decorated wrestlers and all colors of the BJJ belt spectrum represented, it’s no wonder this show sold out early. We’ve got a couple of surprises in store for fans on Saturday too. It’s never hyperbole when we tell people to get their tickets early. If you were sleeping and missed out on this one, don’t wait on getting your tickets early for June 22nd when we go back to the Colisee to celebrate all things America. Tickets go on sale tomorrow!”

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 38: STORMBORN,” will take place this Saturday, April 27, 2019 at Aura in Portland, Maine with a bell time of 7 pm.  Tickets to the event are officially sold-out.

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 fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist Kyle Snyder Returns To Beat the Streets ‘Grapple At The Garden’ May 6 At Hulu Theater


Snyder vs. Nishan Randhawa (Canada), Yianni Diakomihalis vs. Bajrang Punia (India) In Tenth Annual Youth Non-profit Fundraiser
 
 
NEW YORK–Kyle Snyder, who won gold at 97 kg the 2016 Olympics in Rio, will battle Canada’s Nishan Randhawa at the “Grapple at the Garden” Beat the Streets (BTS) benefit, May 6 at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. The addition of the superstar and longtime BTS supporter plus a matchup between two-time National Champion Yianni Diakomahlis (Rochester, N.Y.) and Bajrang Punia (India) increases the current number of scheduled matches to eight.
 
 
Snyder, of Woodbine, Md., a three-time NCAA Champion at Ohio State, will battle Randhawa at 97 kg. The youngest Olympic gold medalist and youngest world champion in U.S. wrestling history (he was 20 at the time of the Rio victory), Snyder also took gold at the 2015 and 2017 World Championships and silver last year in Budapest. Last month he continued his dominance with a clean sweep at the Dave Kolov International to win gold. Randhawa, from Abbotsford, British Columbia, competes for Simon Fraser Univ. in B.C. and is a Canadian junior and senior freestyle champion.
 
 
Diakomahlis completed his second season at Cornell with his second straight national championship at 141 lbs., and now owns a mark of 66-1 with the Big Red, including 47 straight victories. A four-time N.Y. state high school champion at Hilton H.S., Diakomahlis is a two-time Ivy League and EIWA Wrestler of the Year and a unanimous All-Ivy pick.
 
 
Bajrang, a frequent medalist in the World Championships, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and other international championships since 2013, last November achieved the No. 1 ranking in the world at 65kg. Bajrang won five medals in all in 2018, including the historic first gold medal for India in the Asian Games, besting Daichi Takataniof Japan in the final.
 
 
“We’re excited to have our most recent Olympic gold medalist and one of our greatest ambassadors back this year,” said Brendan Buckley, Beat the Streets Inc Executive Director. “Kyle Snyder adds to a night that fans have buzzing about for weeks. We can’t wait until May 6 to showcase all this outstanding wrestling talent on the big stage of the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.”
 
 
The added matchups boost an already impressive slate that is highlighted by featured bouts between 2012 gold medalist Jordan Burroughs and 2008 Olympian Ben Askren; a match between current NCAA champion Nick Suriano (Paramus, N.J. / Rutgers Univ.) and 2018 World bronze medalist Joe Colon (Clear Lake, Iowa / Univ. of Northern Iowa); women’s bouts between 2018 World Silver Medalist Sarah Hildebrandt(Granger, Ind.) and Canada’s Dana Weicker, and 2018 Senior World Championships Bronze Medalist Mallory Velte (Sacramento, Calif.) vs. Linda Morais, also of Canada; and several other intriguing bouts.
 
 
The updated list of matches and weight classes is available below; the order is still to be determined, as are additional matchups. “Grapple at the Garden” supports Beat the Streets (www.btsny.org), the largest grassroots inner city wrestling program in the United States, serving as both a fundraiser for the organization and to celebrate its athletes as they compete on the biggest stage in the center of the world.
 
 
Tickets for the evening’s action are available now via TicketMaster, priced starting at $30 at https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/3B005668AA091B69. A variety of donation packages which include “Grapple in the Garden” tickets are also available athttps://www.btsny.org/bts-events or by emailing molalde@btsny.org, beginning at $1000. Doors open on May 6 at 5:30 p.m., with the main event starting at 6 p.m.
 
 
For the fifth straight year, FloSports will provide live and on-demand coverage on FloWrestling.com.
 
 
Beat the Streets Benefit competitions, which began in 2010, have since become a major showcase of the best of international wrestling. This unique and electrifying annual event has helped Beat the Streets raise millions of dollars to support local youth wrestling programs which empower young people in New York City.
 
 
The first Beat the Streets Benefit was held on the U.S.S. Intrepid, an aircraft carrier docked on the west side of Manhattan. Since then, the benefit has taken place at other notable New York City spots like Grand Central Station and Times Square. Team USA has faced off against teams from around the world including Japan, Cuba, Russia and Iran. Last year, the competition was hosted at the new Pier 17 in the Seaport District and included the highly anticipated Burroughs vs. Frank Chamizo match.
 
 
New York City’s Madison Square Garden is one of the most famous sporting and entertainment venues in the world. The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden is an impressive venue with the capacity to seat over 5,000. The theater has hosted notable wrestling events including the 1998 Goodwill Games wrestling competition and the 2017 Grapple at the Garden college wrestling event.
 
 
About Beat the Streets
 
 
The mission of Beat the Streets is to develop the full potential of the urban youth and to strengthen the culture of New York City wrestling. BTS works directly with the New York City Department of Education in a public-private partnership to bring the life changing sport of wrestling to over 3,000 New York City student-athletes to help them achieve their personal and athletic goals. Through the operation of wrestling programs in middle and high schools in the five boroughs, BTS and the DOE provide a safe, positive atmosphere in which disadvantaged and at-risk youth can learn the essential life lessons of grit, personal responsibility and teamwork, physical fitness and nutrition, and life-long learning. The goal of fostering strong, well-rounded student-athletes is delivered through coaching, after-school programs, life skills workshops, and summer camps. More information can be found at www.btsny.org.
 
 
About USA Wrestling
 
 
USA Wrestling is the National Governing Body for the Sport of Wrestling in the United States and, as such, is its representative to the United States Olympic Committee and United World Wrestling, the international wrestling federation. Simply, USA Wrestling is the central organization that coordinates amateur wrestling programs in the nation and works to create interest and participation in these programs. It has over 230,000 members across the nation, boys and girls, men and women of all ages, representing all levels of the sport. Its president is Bruce Baumgartner, and its Executive Director is Rich Bender. More information can be found at TheMat.com.
 
 
2019 Beat the Streets “Grapple at the Garden”
May 6, 2019
Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, New York

 


(Matches scheduled to date, Order TBD)

Sarah Hildebrandt vs. Diana Weicker, 53 kg (W)
Mallory Velte vs. Linda Morais, 62 kg (W)
Jo Jo Aragona vs. Adam Busiello, 138 lbs.
Nick Suriano vs. Joe Colon, 61 kg
Bajrang Punia (IND) vs. Yianni Diakomihalis, 65 kg
James Green vs. Anthony Ashnault, 70 kg
Jordan Burroughs vs Ben Askren, 74 kg
Kyle Snyder vs. Nishan Randhawa (CAN), 97 kg

Dick DiVeronica embodies spirit of New York State Boxing Hall of Fame


Induction Dinner This Sunday, April 28
 
Don King, Jimmy Cannon, Jimmy Carter & Wilfredo Benitez headline Class of 2019 inductees

NEW YORK (April 22, 2019) – Canastota, New York welterweight Dick DiVeronica embodies the true spirit of the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame: New Yorkers honoring New Yorkers for their accomplishments and achievements in boxing.
 
DiVeronica will be part of a 24-member Class of 2019 inducted at the eighth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner this Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
 
“This is what the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame is about, honoring and remembering men and women who devoted their time and energy to our beloved sports,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said. “We thank all of them and their families for sharing these special people with us.”
 
Limited tickets are still available, priced at $125.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16), and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com. Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.
 
DiVeronica fought professionally between 1958-1972, compiling a 44-31-1 (13 KOs) record as a welterweight contender. He was stopped only twice in 58 pro fights, once by NYSBHOF charter (2012) inductee Emile Griffith.
 
“This wasn’t expected (NYSBHOF induction) and we’re all super excited,” DiVeronica’s daughter Theresa commented. “We live in the same town as the International Boxing Hall of Fame, but my father will never be inducted into that Hall of Fame because he was never a world champion, only a contender. Billy Backus (undisputed world welterweight champion in 1971-72) is from Canastota, too. He and my father never fought because they didn’t want the hometown fighter losing. My father was a humble guy and we’re so happy to have him recognized by the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.”
 
DiVeronica will now join Backus, who was a member of the Class of 2014, in the NYSBHOF. Boxing was incredibly important in DiVeronica life in and out of the ring. He started a boxing club in Germany while stationed there in the U.S. Army. He even met his wife at the famed 5th St. Gym in Miami. Dick was staying there at the home of a relative, right next door to where his future wife lived. One day he asked her out and eventually they were married and starting a family back in Canastota.
 
“My family is so excited,” Theresa added. “We’ll be there for the induction ceremony, even my older sister from Germany.”
 
Other living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include (Bronx-born) three-time, two-division world champion Wilfredo Benitez (53-8-1, 31 KOs), (Hempstead) WBO super featherweight world champion Rogelio Tuur (46-4-1, 30 KOs), (Bronx) 1968 U.S. Olympian Davey Vasquez (19-15, 6 KOs), WBO super middleweight world title challengerMichael Olajide (27-5, 19 KOs), of Manhattan, and Queens’ world heavyweight title challenger Monte Barrett (35-11-2, 20 KOs).
 
Posthumous participants being inducted are (Bronx) three-time lightweight world championJimmy Carter (84-31-9, 34 KOs), Brooklyn welterweight Al “Bummy” Davis (65-10-4, 46 KOs), (Schenectady) world welterweight champion Marty Servo (47-4-2, 14 KOs), (Bronx) world heavyweight title challenger Roland LaStarza (57-9, 27 KOs), Brooklyn world lightweight champion Paddy DeMarco (75-26-3, 8 KOs )and Manhattan’s Lower East Side lightweights Sid Terris (94-13-5, 12 KOs) and Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross (35-10-4, 22 KOs).
 
Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are New York City-based promoter Don King, Flushing judge John McKaie, referee Arthur Mercante, Jr. Brooklyn sportscasterSteve Albert, and Bronx trainer Bob Jackson.
 
Posthumous non-participant inductees are Utica matchmaker Dewey Fragetta, Corona, Queens referee Johnny LoBianco, Garden City referee Wayne Kelly, Flushing sportsman Harry Hill, award-winning journalist Jimmy Cannon, of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, and NYSAC official/former NABF president Joe Dwyer, of Brooklyn.
 
Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.
 
The 2019 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:Randy GordonHenry HascupDon MajeskiRon McNair, and Neil Terens.
 
All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.
 

NYSBHOF

CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.
 
CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

CLASS OF 2014: Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.
 
CLASS OF 2015: Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.
 
CLASS OF 2016: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.
 
CLASS OF 2017: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.
 
CLASS OF 2018: Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

GH3 Promotions Wade, Mattice and Hines back in May


NUTLEY, NJ – April 22, 2019 – Three members of the GH3 Promotional stable will be back in action next month as super middleweight Dominic Wade, lightweight Thomas Mattice and heavyweight Roney Hines will be back in action.


On May 18th, former middleweight world title challenger Wade will take on Nick Brinson in a ten-round bout for the IBO International title at the ESA Entertainment & Sports Arena in Washington, D.C.


Wade and Brinson met five years-ago for which Wade took a close unanimous decision.


A week earlier on May 11th at The Agora Theater and Ballroom in Cleveland, Ohio, lightweight Thomas Mattice battles Angel Sarinana, and former National Golden Gloves champion and undefeated heavyweight Roney Hines takes on an opponent to be named in a four-round bout.


Wade of Largo, Maryland has a record of 20-1 with 14 knockouts.  Wade, 28, is a 10 year-professional who vaulted up the middleweight rankings with wins over Chris Davis (3-0), Michael Faulk (2-0), Grover Young (4-0), Nick Brinson (16-1-2) and former world champion Sam Soliman.


After challenging world middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin, Wade took two-plus years off, and has comeback with two knockout wins, with the latest being a 5th round stoppage over Josue Obando on February 23rd in Charlotte, North Carolina.


Brinson of Geneva, New York has a record of 19-4-2 with nine knockouts.


The 31 year-old Brinson is an eleven year-pro who has faced quality opposition.


Brinson has wins over Markus Williams (2-0 & 10-2) & Jorge Melendez (26-2-1)


Brinson has won two in a row, and is coming off a 6th round stoppage over Jaime Barboza on June 9th in Verona, New York.


Mattice will be returning to his home of Cleveland, Ohio.


The 28 year-old Mattice has a record of 13-1-1 with 10 knockouts.


Mattice has wins over Robert O’Quinn (4-0), Eliseo Cruz Sesma (9-2-1), Rolando Chinea (15-1-1) and Zhora Hamazaryan (9-0).  Mattice is coming off his lone defeat as he dropped a bout to undefeated Will Madera on February 1st in Rochester, New York.


Sarinana of Durango, Mexico has a record of 10-7-2 with four knockouts.


The capable Sarinana has wins over Dimash Niyazov (13-0-3) and former world title challenger Cosme Rivera.


Hines, also from Cleveland was the 2018 National Golden Gloves champion, and has raced out to a perfect mark of 5-0 with five 1st round stoppages.

Former Two-Division Champion Danny Garcia Delivers Dominant Performance With Seventh Round Stoppage of Adrian Granados in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Main Event Saturday Night from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California


Heavyweight Contender Andy Ruiz Jr. Defeats Alexander Dimitrenko By TKO After Round Five & Unbeaten Brandon Figueroa Stops Yonfrez Parejo After Eight Rounds to Capture Interim 122-Pound Title

PBC Fight Night Extra on FS1 & FOX Deportes Features Victories for Jeison Rosario & Alfredo Angulo, Plus Still Unbeaten Prospects Karlos Balderas, Omar Juarez & Rolando Romero

Click HERE for Photos from Frank Micelotta/FOX Sports
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Click HERE for Photos from Leo Wilson Jr./Premier Boxing Champions

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/Mayweather Promotions

CARSON, CALIF. (April 20, 2019) – Former two-division champion Danny “Swift” Garcia (35-2, 21 KOs) dropped Adrian Granados (20-7-2, 14 KOs) three times before stopping him in round seven Saturday night in a welterweight showdown that headlined Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
 
“I’ve said it before, when Danny Garcia is at his best, nobody can beat him,” said Garcia. “I had gotten a little comfortable in the past, but I put my 110 percent into this fight and when I do, I beat everyone.”
 
Garcia got his offense started early, deflecting a right hand from Granados in round two and throwing a perfect left hook counter that dropped Granados for the first time in the fight. Granados continued to push and tried to change the tide, but an overhand right at the end of an exchange by Garcia sent Granados down for the second time in round two.
 
“It felt good landing that big left hook,” said Garcia. “I was proud of my performance. I thought I did a great job tonight.”
 
“He was very sharp in the exchanges,” said Granados. “That’s where he was catching me. I knew that’s what I had to avoid. But the toughness in me is always ready to go. I was willing to engage.”
 
Granados tried to find ways to slow Garcia’s momentum, but while trying to crowd Garcia he was too often caught with power punches on the inside. Round four saw Granados begin to bleed heavily from the nose and in round five Granados was dropped for the third time, this time from a combination Garcia delivered while he had Granados on the ropes.

“The way to make a statement tonight was to stop him,” said Garcia. “The game plan was to break him down. I have too many tools. I couldn’t let him hang around with me.
 
“He wanted to get closer to me and make it a dogfight. But I surprised him when I stood with him and banged to the body. Then I started making him miss and that’s when I stopped him.”
 
In round seven, Garcia landed 48% of his power punches according to CompuBox, and after buzzing him several times, unleashed a flurry while Granados was on the ropes that forced referee Thomas Taylor to stop the bout 1:33 into round seven.
 
“He caught me with some good shots but I really thought I was fine,” said Granados. “I think the referee was a little over-protective. I had a plan to go the whole fight and they stopped me on my feet. I was still catching him with shots. I was still dangerous and looking for a big shot to change the fight. The referee had to do his job though and I understand it.”
 
With the win, Garcia will look for more big fights with fellow elite welterweights.
 
“I hope I didn’t scare Manny Pacquiao away,” said Garcia. “I’d love a rematch with Shawn Porter or Keith Thurman, or a fight with Errol Spence Jr. I’m back!”
The co-main event featured heavyweight contender and Southern California fan-favoriteAndy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. (32-1, 21 KOs) scoring a TKO victory overAlexander Dimitrenko (41-5, 26 KOs) after five rounds of action in their heavyweight showdown.
 
Ruiz flashed the exceptional hand speed that has defined his career, landing hard combinations to the head and body of the taller Dimitrenko. Ruiz stalked Dimitrenko, controlling the center of the ring and picking his spots to unload.
 
“He started slowing down and I could see the face he made when I hit him with body shots,” said Ruiz. “I just stayed disciplined and focused. I couldn’t get too anxious. I just wanted to break him down until the tree fell down.”
 
Dimitrenko tried to use his jab to keep Ruiz at bay and was able to cause a welt under Ruiz’s right eye as the early rounds went on. It was not enough to keep Ruiz from coming forward and in round five he began to pile up the punishment, punctuated with hard right hooks that snapped Dimitrenko’s head back.

“We worked on slipping his right hand and coming back with my own,” said Ruiz. “I missed with a few of them but I stayed busy. I focused on just getting the job done.”
 
After the fifth round, and on the advice of Dimitrenko’s corner, referee Ray Corona stopped the bout before round six could commence. Ruiz was comfortably ahead on all three scorecards and set his sights on another top heavyweight contender for his possible next opponent.
 
“For my next fight there’s somebody like me, a chubby exciting fighter I want,” said Ruiz. “Adam Kownacki I’m ready, let’s do this.”
 
The opening bout on FOX saw unbeaten top contender Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa (19-0, 14 KOs) earn the Interim WBA Super Bantamweight title by stoppingYonfrez Parejo (22-4-1, 11 KOs) after eight rounds of action. Parejo did not answer the bell for round nine, forcing referee Jerry Cantu to stop the bout while Parejo was in the corner.

“This is an amazing feeling and a dream come true,” said Figueroa. “I can’t wait for what’s coming next.I thought I was going to finish him the next round. He had lasted pretty well but once I put the pressure up to another level, I knew he wouldn’t be able to continue.”
 
The 22-year-old Figueroa used his signature pressure early and often, walking through effective shots Parejo landed in the early rounds to establish his position in the fight. Parejo had success landing hooks while Figueroa was exposed on the inside, but was unable to avoid the return fire, especially the body shots that eventually led to the end of the fight.
 
“He threw a lot of strong shots to the body and I felt my legs go at the end of the last round,” said Parejo.”He’s very strong but sometimes flat-footed and I was trying to take advantage of that. He was too strong tonight.”
 
Figueroa began to throw even more combinations in the late rounds, nullifying the offense that Parejo was trying to get going. His most prolific rounds were rounds four and five, where he landed 31 and 41 power punches respectively. After a one-sided round eight where Figueroa out landed Parejo 33 to 15, it had become clear that Parejo didn’t have enough on his punches to stop the onslaught. The referee stopped the bout after consulting with Parejo before the start of the ninth round, officially giving Figueroa the victory.

“My conditioning was amazing and I felt strong every round,” said Figueroa. “I’m next in line and I’m ready for anyone.”


After the card on FOX, PBC Fight Night Extra on FS1 and FOX Deportes was headlined by Jeison Rosario (19-1-1, 13 KOs) winning a split-decision over Jorge Cota (28-3, 25 KOs) by scores of 97-93 for Cota and 96-94 and 97-93 for Rosario in a 10-round super welterweight bout

 
The FS1 portion kicked off with highly-touted prospect Rolando “Rollie” Romero (9-0, 8 KOs) knocking out Andres Figueroa (9-5, 5 KOs) 1:27 into round four of their lightweight fight. Rising unbeaten and 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas (8-0, 7 KOs) remained perfect by stopping Luis May (21-14-1, 8 KOs) at 1:07 of round four in their lightweight battle and super lightweight prospect Omar Juarez (3-0, 1 KO)earned a unanimous decision by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37 after four rounds againstDwayne Bonds (3-2-1, 1 KO).
 
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 and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.facebook.com/foxsports &www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. The event was promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, in association with DSG Promotions.

WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. To Defend Against Former Champion Kiko Martinez In Co-Feature To Wilder vs. Breazeale Saturday, May 18 Live on SHOWTIME – Unbeaten Super Lightweight Contender Juan Heraldez Takes On Former Champion Argenis Mendez in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Opener from Barclays Center in Brooklyn


WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. To Defend Against Former Champion Kiko Martinez In Co-Feature To Wilder vs. Breazeale Saturday, May 18 Live on SHOWTIME®


Unbeaten Super Lightweight Contender Juan Heraldez Takes On Former Champion Argenis Mendez in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Opener from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

BROOKLYN (April 19, 2019) – WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his title against former world champion Kiko Martinez in the co-feature to Wilder vs. Breazeale on Saturday, May 18 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature unbeaten super lightweight contender Juan Heraldez squaring-off against former world champion Argenis Mendez in a 10-round attraction. The event is headlined by WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder as he makes the ninth defense of his title against mandatory challenger Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale.
 
“Gary Russell Jr. is one of the most skilled fighters in the sport and he’ll look to stake his spot atop the featherweight division on May 18 against the always exciting former champion Kiko Martinez,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The event will also feature a battle between a rising contender in the 140-pound division in Juan Heraldez going up against one of the division’s toughest and most active contenders in Argenis Mendez. This is truly going to be an electric night leading up to heavyweight champion of the world Deontay Wilder in the main event.” 
 
“Preceding the night’s main attraction will be Gary Russell Jr. defending his title against a tough and experienced Kiko Martinez, making for a battle that is sure to bring excitement to the fans, plus Mayweather Promotions’ young prospect Juan Heraldez will open the telecast looking to put on a show, as he continues to elevate his career to new heights,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “I’m confident that he will execute his game plan impressively and showcase his talent against a seasoned and tested Argenis Mendez, who has been in the ring with some of the top guys in the super lightweight division. The fans at Barclays and those tuning in on SHOWTIME will see a night of non-stop action come May 18.”
 
Tickets for this BombZquad event can be purchased at ticketmaster.comand barclayscenter.com, Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.
 
The 30-year-old Russell (29-1, 17 KOs), who was born in Washington, D.C. and now lives in Capitol Heights, Maryland, will make the fourth defense of his featherweight world title on May 18 and his second career appearance at Barclays Center. Russell won his title by knocking out Jhonny Gonzalez in 2015. After stopping Patrick Hyland and Oscar Escandon, he most recently defeated previously unbeaten Joseph Diaz Jr. last May. Russell, who is trained by his father, Gary, Sr., is part of a boxing family. Two of his younger brothers, Gary Antonio and Gary Antuanne, are currently unbeaten professionals.
 
“I expect to send a message to everyone in or near my division that I’m a force to be reckoned with,” said Russell. “I want to unify against Leo Santa Cruz and I’m going to do what I have to do to get there. I’m never going to take any opponent lightly and right now, it’s my job to take care of Kiko Martinez before I worry about anything else. On May 18 you should expect to see excitement, punching power, hand speed, fast combinations and a great level of boxing IQ. I’m the best in boxing today and I prove that every time I get in the ring.”
 
A native of Comunidad Valenciana, Spain, Martinez (39-8-2, 28 KOs) has faced the best names in and around the featherweight division throughout his career. He won a super bantamweight world title in 2013 by stopping Jhonatan Romero and has faced the likes of Leo Santa Cruz, Carl Frampton, Josh Warrington and Scott Quigg. The 33-year-old is unbeaten in his last four contests, including most recently defeating Marc Vidal for a European featherweight title in October.
 
“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity to win another world title and I’m thankful and excited for May 18,” said Martinez. “Gary Russell Jr is in for a rude awakening. I have a lot of experience and I feel great at featherweight. There will be nothing better than celebrating my 50th fight with a new world title.”
 
The undefeated Heraldez (16-0, 10 KOs) continued to rise up the rankings in 2019 when he knocked out Eddie Ramirez in their February showdown. The 28-year-old from Las Vegas earned a decision victory over Kevin Watts and a stoppage of Maynard Allison in 2018. That followed up a unanimous decision victory over then unbeaten prospect Jose Miguel Borrego in his first 10-round bout in August 2017 on the Mayweather vs. McGregor undercard.
 
“I’m one of the best super lightweights in the world and I’m going to show it again on May 18,” said Heraldez. “They keep lining them up and I’ll keep knocking them down. Mendez is good, veteran opposition, but I’m going to show I’m on a different level. This is a great opportunity to once again perform on a big stage and I’m going to take full advantage and steal the show.”
 
Mendez (25-5-2, 12 KOs) most recently fought to a competitive split-draw against Anthony Peterson in March, running his unbeaten streak up to three fights. The 32-year-old defeated Eddie Ramirez and Ivan Redkach in back-to-back fights after losses to Robert Easter Jr. and Luke Campbell. Originally from San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic and now living in Brooklyn, N.Y, Mendez won the IBF super featherweight title with a knockout victory over Juan Carlos Salgado in 2013.
 
“This fight is do or die for me to become champion again,” said Mendez. “Anthony Peterson ran from me in our fight in March, so if Heraldez does that on May 18, I will be better prepared. If he stands and fights with me, I feel strongly that I will dominate him and make a statement to everyone that I’m an elite 140-pound fighter.”
 
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com
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“FIGHT NIGHT: SHIELDS vs. HAMMER” CAPTURES THE DRAMA SURROUNDING HISTORIC UNDISUPUTED SHOWDOWN BETWEEN CLARESSA SHIELDS AND CHRISTINA HAMMER


Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME®


 
Watch, Share & Embed Via The Below Link

https://s.sho.com/2V8lIX3


 
WHAT: SHOWTIME Sports released “FIGHT NIGHT: Shields vs. Hammer,” a 20-minute feature that captures all the drama of the undisputed middleweight world championship event between undefeated Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer last Saturday in Atlantic City. To watch, share or embed the video, click here: https://s.sho.com/2V8lIX3


 
The latest installment of the FIGHT NIGHT franchise delivers access to both Shields and Hammer surrounding the most important moment of their careers, giving viewers a rare glimpse behind closed doors to the fighters and their respective camps.    


 
The unanimous decision victory in what Hall of Fame boxing historian and commentator Steve Farhood called, “The most important fight in the history of women’s boxing,” gave Shields further claim to her self-described moniker, “The G.W.O.A.T.” (Greatest Woman Of All Time).


 
“I’m just happy women’s boxing is getting all this love, but it’s about the respect part of it,” Shields said. “I know there’s the money and the fame, but respect is the big thing for me – that I’m respected as a fighter. I want to be known as a boxer. I want people to respect me as that.”