DJ Zamora Embraces Tough Step-up Fight Against Jesus Ibarra this Saturday on Benavidez-Plant Card
LAS VEGAS, NV (March 23, 2023) – Undefeated super featherweight, DJ “The War Machine” Zamora (10-0, 8 KOs), is excited to be returning to the ring as prepares to take on his toughest test when he battles Jesus Abel Ibarra (15-0, 7 KOs), in what is sure to be an epic clash of unbeaten fighters.
The 8-round bout will take place this Saturday March 25, 2023, on the highly anticipated Benavidez vs. Plant card at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. “I am very excited to share the ring with another undefeated fighter and this is by far the biggest opportunity of my career,” stated Zamora, who will be fighting in his hometown Las Vegas. “I know exactly what is on the line and what I must do. I hope to give the fans a great show and send a message to the super-featherweight division. I know Ibarra, like me, is a tough fighter with a lot of heart, so we both will be leaving everything in the ring. Fans can expect to see an explosive fight.”
Zamora, who is only 19 years old, has quickly become one of the most talked-about fighters in the Las Vegas boxing scene. He’s already shown that he has the power and skill to be a force in the ring. But his impressive record is not the only thing that sets him apart. Zamora has sparred with some of the biggest names in boxing. These experiences have given him valuable insights into the sport and have helped him to hone his skills even further.
“I’ve gained a lot of knowledge and experience having sparred guys like Devin Haney and Shukur Stevenson, as well as my others out here in Las Vegas,” continued Zamora. “Ryan Garcia invited me to one of his training camps a few years back, and that work was incredible. I know what I’m capable of and I am very thankful for the opportunity to be fighting under the bright lights. I want to thank my team for making this possible. My confidence is at an all-time high and all the hard work will be on display this Saturday.”
The excitement surrounding this fight is palpable, with fans and experts alike eagerly anticipating the clash between these two unbeaten fighters. It’s sure to be a thrilling battle. Don’t miss your chance to see one of the most exciting young fighters in boxing take on his toughest challenge yet.
NEW YORK (March 22, 2023) – Multiple world champion Kathy “Wildcat” Collins (14-2-4, 3 KOs) will become the first female boxer inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF).
Collins, of Plainview, is one of a 22-member Class of 2022 being inducted at the 11th NYSBHOF induction dinner, sponsored by Ring 8, on Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 30, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
”It’s a tremendous honor to be inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame,” said Collins (married name Globuschutz). “This is my fourth induction into Halls of Fame, which is special to me since I also held four world titles. But this is even more special since it is finally here in New York, the Mecca of Boxing, and where it all started for me.
“In 1995, I was part of the first class of women ever allowed to box in the fabled Daily News Golden Gloves. A year later, the first women’s fight televised on the USA Tuesday night boxing series from the Paramount at Madison Square Garden, which culminated in the highest female purses at the time from Madison Square Garden as a co-featured bout on a major pay-per-view for Don King. These were major accomplishments in women’s boxing. It helped paved the way for women today, some coming out of the Olympics, selling out The Garden and working towards equal pay with seven-figure pay days.”
Collins’ second professional fight was a six-round decision over Andrea DeShong in 1996, which brought pro women’s boxing to the famed Madison Square Garden and regular cable television.
In 1997, Kathy captured the IFBA welterweight title and added the IWBF junior welterweight crown later that same year, then, she dropped down to the lightweight division to successfully challenge for the IWBF championship. Collins became the first fighter to simultaneously own world titles in the WIBF, IFBA, and IWBF.
Kathy Collins is a true pioneer in women’s boxing. Now, she’ll be honored at home in New York by her induction into the NYSBHOF.
“In 30 years,” she concluded, “we’ve come a long way baby! It is truly an honor to be recognized by the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame and to be recognized and included in in a tremendously talented, successful class of inductees, and being around so many of my friends and colleagues that helped me break ceilings along the way.”
“Kathy Collins is a great asset for the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame as our first female boxer inductee,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy commented. “Her induction into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame is an extension of her career as a pioneer of women’s boxing. We are proud to be inducting her.”
Other living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF are Brooklyn’s 2-division (welterweight & light welterweight), 6-time World Champion “Super” Zab Judah (44-10, 30 KOs), Brooklyn’s 2-divbision World Champion (welterweight and light welterweight) Paulie “Magic Man” Malignaggi (36-8, 7 KOs), Troy welterweight Kevin “Mr. Excitement” Pompey (32-18-3, 12 KOs), and Brooklyn World Super Lightweight World title challenger Dmitry “Star of David” Salita (35-2-1, 18 KOs).
Posthumous participants being inducted are Poughkeepsie’s world lightweight challenger Johnny Busso (36-12-1, 15 KOs), Bronx middleweight Eugene “Silent” Hairston (45-13-5, 24 KOs), New York City’s NYSAC Featherweight World Champion Tony “Jimmy Pell” Pellone (51-19-6, 10 KOs), Bronx featherweight Mike “The Bronx Spider” Belloise (91-28-12, 21 KOs), New York City’s World Colored Heavyweight Champion Harry “Black Panther” Wills (70-9-3, 56 KOs), and Hempstead’s World Light Heavyweight World title challenger Eddie “Wildcat” Davis (34-6-1, 20 KOs).
Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Brooklyn trainer Hector Rocha, Brooklynn ring announcer Dave Diamante, Bronx commentator/producer/radio show host Tony Paige, Latham journalist Bob Mladinich, Brooklyn neurologist Barry Jordan, Brooklyn judge Robin Taylor, and Buffalo journalist Bob Caico.
Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn manager Izzy Zwerling, Manhattan manager Dave Wolf, Brooklyn trainer George Washington, and New York City manager/promoter Irving Cohen.
Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.
The 2022 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF Nominating Committee members: Chairperson Jack Hirsch, Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Ron McNair, Jim Monteverde, Neil Terens, Jose Corpas, Bobby Cassidy, and Bob Duffy.
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.
Tickets are priced at $160.00 per adult, $60.00 for children (under 16), and includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as a 7-course dinner (prime rib, fish, or poultry) and open bar throughout the event. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $80.00 to $200.00, by contacting Duffy. Go online at www.nyboxinghof.org or www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the York State Boxing Hall of Fame New.
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 Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, 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.
No class of 2019 due to COVID-19 restrictions
CLASS OF 2020: Jorge Ahumada, Alfredo Escalera, Freddie Liberatore, Dennis Milton; Lou Savarese and Merqui Sosa, Soldier Bartfield, Steve Belloise, Jimmy Goodrich, Tami Mauriello, Davey Moore, Freddie Welch, Don Ackerman, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Rick Glaser, Jack Hirsch, Max Kellerman, Dr. William Lathan, Julie Lederman, Ron Lipton, Kevin Rooney, Dan Daniel, Bobby Gleason, Flash Gordan, A.J. Liebling, Tony Mazzarella, and manager Dan Morgan.
CLASS OF 2021: Michael Bentt, Shannon Briggs, Verno Phillips, Donny Lalonde Johnny” Verderosa, Larry Barnes, Johnny Turner, Al Singer, Kid Norfolk, Patsy Giovanelli, Eddie Martin, Battling Siki, Solly Krieger, Herbie Kronowitz, Tommy Paul, Lou Salica, Ron McNair, Don Elbaum, Ed Schuyler, Bill Verigan, Tom Hauser, Mike Silver, and Jill Diamond, Lou Stillman, Bill Cayton, James Walker, John Condon, Irving Rudd, Richard K. Fox, and trainer Victor Valle.
ABOUT RING 8: Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.
RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.
Go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues are only $30.00, and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership. Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.
LOS ANGELES, CA (March 22, 2023) – Team Combat League today unveiled rosters for the Atlanta Attack, coached by Sam Arnold Sr. and Mustafa Meekins and the Dallas Enforcers coached by AC Bryant. Both teams will do battle at the inaugural opening night of Team Combat League on March 29, 2023 at the Mohegan Sun Expo Center.
Each team carries a roster of 18 fighters across 6 weight classes.
Dallas EnforcersTeam Roster
Atlanta AttackTeam Roster
Female Featherweight 126lbsJennifer Miranda Anna Maria Verbeek Destiny Jean Rivercomb Male Lightweight 135lbsRandy CanadayClay Burns
Male Welterweight 147lbsAJ GrahamMalik SamarAndre Ewell Male Middleweight 160lbsKhalid JohnsonKeandrea LeatherwoodQanderis Arnold
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbsKenneth PeoplesJordan Frederick Male Heavyweight 201+lbsAdrian TaylorMontoya Andres GarciaWaylon Allen Bailey
Male Lightweight 135lbsMarcell DavidsonMichael DawsonJosh Johnson Male Welterweight 147lbsAustin DulayJavonn DavisMarcus Davidson Male Middleweight 160lbsMauricio Javon KingDayan DepestreMalik Donovan Reid
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbsDevonte WilliamsNehemiah JonesFrankie Solomon Male Heavyweight 201+lbsDevon YoungDemetrius DemeritteMichael Nelson
A possible explosive clash looms between two of the highest regarded females in the league, WBA Intercontinental Featherweight Champion and Actress “Money Heist” Jennifer Miranda (8-0) and Danielle Bennet (7-1) representing Atlanta. Another volatile matchup that fans are monitoring is undefeated Devon Young versus Errol Spence sparring partner Adrian Taylor (13-1) of Dallas. There is also an intriguing battle between Javonn Davis (7-0) of Atlanta vs. AJ Graham (10-0) of Dallas, in a battle of undefeated warriors.
Coaches play an outsized role in Team Combat League matchups, pre-approved by boxing commissions, which are determined on the fly. Coaches alternate selecting one of three fighters rostered in each respective weight class to send in against an fighter already proposed by the opposing coach. Viewers are left in the dark as to which fighter each team will do battle with one another until the decision is made by coaches in real time. This uncertainty, combined with the fast paced three-minute round in boxing rules format, will provide constant action where spectators will be left on the edge of their seats to see what comes next.
“We are honored to be taking part in the first ever match of the Team Combat League,” coach Arnold of the Attack remarked. “We intend to have the Atlanta Attack ready to live up to its name by coming out as aggressors against the Dallas Enforcers.”
“We do not feel the Enforcers can match up to our grit, determination and talent and expect for that to be on display on Wednesday, March 29.” coach Mustafa Meekins added.“We are excited about finally putting all our training on display for all fans to see,” AC Bryant of the Dallas Enforcers said. “We have a great tradition in Dallas of sports teams that excite the local fan base, and we hope and expect to continue in the tradition of other great Dallas sports teams. Dismantling the Atlanta Attack will be the first step towards establishing a winning tradition in Dallas.”
About Team Combat League:Team Combat League competitions employ a unique and exclusive point scoring system. Each match contains 24 three-minute rounds of nonstop action with a 10-minute halftime after round 12. Teams compete across six weight categories, five male and one female. Each round is scored individually with additional points added for knockouts and knockdowns. There are 3 judges appointed by a licensed boxing commission. 3 points are awarded for unanimous decisions while a split decision would be 2 points for the winner of the round’s team and 1 point to the loser. Additional points are awarded for each judged knockdown with a maximum of 6 points for a round stoppage. It’s not rocket science, at the conclusion of the 24 rounds, the team with the most points wins!
Baltimore, Maryland (March 20, 2023)–Jeter Promotions has announced the signing of undefeated junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones to a promotional contract.
Jones, 23 years-old of Baltimore, Maryland is 4-0 with two knockouts. All four of Jones’ wins have come on Jeter Promotions cards, and the signing makes it official that he will be with Jeter Promotions going forward.
“Tony Jeter is doing an amazing job, and he is keeping fighters active and doing great things. He is staying busy by doing shows in different areas. I could see myself fighting in the different spots that Tony Promotes such as Atlanta, Pennsylvania and Maryland,” said Jones.
Jones started boxing at the age of 13, and had 35 amateur fights. He considers himself a boxer-puncher. Jones turned professional on December 3, 2021 with a first-round stoppage over Joshua Zimmerman in Philadelphia. Jones has a win over Kani Burnside. In his latest outing, Jones won a four-round unanimous decision over Michael Crain on February 18th in Hanover, Maryland.
“I am working on building my record and hopefully get on TV and fight for any belt that is available. Tony can bring me to be a champion and I believe in him:”
Jones is trained by Marvin McDowell Photos by Daniel Cork
Devaun Lee Shocks Kiante Irving Joey Turk Remains Undefeated
Pittsburgh, PA (March 20, 2023) -Super Bantamweight contender Oleh Dovhun inched closer to a world title opportunity by making the second defense of the WBA NABA title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Juan Centeno in a fight that headlined a five-bout card at The Priory Grand Hall in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
The card was promoted by Integrity Fighter Management and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
Despite being cut on his left eyelid due to an accidental clash of head, Dovhun showed his class throughout the bout by boxing his way behind a consistent work-rate. Centeno hung in there, but Dovhun showed why he is a world-ranked contender and took the fight by scores of 100-90 on all cards.
Dovhun of Pittsburgh via Ukraine ups his perfect mark to 15-0. Centeno of Miami us 8-7-3.
Dovhun is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and managed by Integrity Fighter Management.
In the co-feature, Devaun Lee sent shockwaves by stopping previously undefeated hometown fighter Kiante Irving in round four of their six-round super middleweight bout.
Lee was able to withstand an early rush by Irving. Irving may have punched himself out as Lee started to take over in the second and third rounds. Lee started tagging Irving with flush shots until the bout was stopped at 2:03 of round four.
Lee of Queens, NY is 11-8-1 with six knockouts. Irving of Beaver Falls, PA falls to 11-1-1.
Joe Turk remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Isaiah Margheim in a heavyweight bout.
Turk of Pittsburgh is now 3-0-1. Margehim of Sandusky, Ohio is 1-3. Jordan Zlacki took a four-round split decision over Eric Palmer in a welterweight battle.
Zlacki of Springdale, PA is now 3-5. Palmer of Uniontown, PA is 14-17-5.
The opening bout saw Devon Siegfried stop Matteo Gardner in a scheduled four-round fight featuring debuting cruiserweights. In round three, Siegfried dropped Gardner with a right hook for the 10-count at 1:05.
LAVAL, Quebec, Canada (March 16, 2023) — Montreal’s Kim Clavel (16-0-1, 3KO) will step back into the ring to take on Naomi “La Chapita” Arellano Reyes (9-2-0, 5KO), of Los Angeles, for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) International Flyweight Championship on April 28, at Place Bell in Laval. The vacant WBC international flyweight title will be on the line as confirmed by the WBC. We have also requested sanctions for the division’s IBF Inter-Continental and WBO Inter-Continental titles as well. Verbal confirmation has been obtained and we expect to receive the required sanctions confirmation within the next few hours.
This will be the first fight for Clavel, 32, since the incredible clash this past of January 13 against World Boxing Association (WBA) world champion Yesica Nery Plata (29-2-0, 3KO), which the popular Canadian lost by decision in her first WBC title defense.
April 28th will mark the start of Clavel’s “RECONQUEST”, who intends to prove herself again by positioning her for a rematch with Plata as quickly as possible. She is presently ranked as the WBC #1, WBO #3 and IBF #4 contender.
Clavel is more motivated than ever, saying: “I want to regain my world title, but I will take it one fight at a time. We will reposition ourselves in the rankings. I’m going to need all of Quebec behind me. I’m confident with my team, my perseverance and all of you that, by the end of the year, we’ll get more than just a world champion belt! Thank you for your eternal support.”
Originally from Nayarit, Mexico, Reyes now lives and trains in Los Angeles, California. The 28-year-old Reyes is renowned for her power as evidenced by her 5 knockout victories to date. Her most notable win was versus former multiple time world champion Carina Moreno (25-7-0, 6KO) in 2020. In her last outing last October, Reyes lost by decision against Gabriela Fundura (8-0-0, 4KO) for the WBC Latino flyweight title in a PBC event broadcast on Showtime.
Clavel and Reyes were supposed to face each other in August 2021 at the IGA Stadium, but the latter had to withdraw due to health restrictions to enter Canada, and she was replaced by Maria Vargas (14-4-1, 1KO).
“It is with great enthusiasm and confidence that we are relaunching Kim with the ultimate goal of allowing her to avenge her defeat and regain her world title,” said GYM President Yvon Michel. “We remember the great intense and passionate fight between the two champions last January. Besides, the latter is still in the running for the 2023 Fight of the Year! The 4,000 spectators at Place Bell are still excited. To return to the world championship, Kim must prove herself again and these international titles will allow her to become a must challenger for the champion.”
Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization, founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, who are still active in the company, the most prolific in the history of professional boxing in Canada. Since its foundation, GYM has promoted 165 events in Quebec, all televised in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada, as well as participated in 38 international events outside Quebec. Eight GYM boxers have become world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (twice), Oscar Rivas and Kim Clavel. Nineteen boxers from the organization have delivered 54 world championship fights, maintaining an excellent record of 30 wins, 22 losses and 2 draws. During this period, major American television networks were more active than ever in coming to Quebec to broadcast the most important events of the organization.
Deerfield Beach, FL (March 16, 2023) – Four-time World Champion superstar and Bad Boy of Boxing, Adrien Broner, has teamed up with “Hall of Famer” and the people’s greatest promoter Don King, to bring excitement back into boxing’s forefront.
The super lightweight, welterweight (140-147 pounds) Broner, who hails from the great buckeye state, Cincinnati, Ohio, has been out of the ring since he fought on February 20, 2021, and won a unanimous decision against Jovanie Santiago at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut.
This momentous signing by the great hall of famer, “my magic lies in my people ties” boxing promoter Don King, with “superstar, exciting bad boy of boxing, Adrien Broner marks the first time the two have teamed up together. “Fantastic boxing excitement is already permeating the boxing atmosphere,” said King.
Broner was once the youngest fighter at the age of 24 to win four world titles at 130, 135, 140 and 147 pounds.
“This phenomenal team-up of superstar “exciting” bad boy of boxing Adrien Broner and the world’s greatest boxing promoter, will give the people what they want–the best of boxing, and the best boxing excitement… capturing the imagination, the heart, and the mind, stimulating the boxing imagination’s begging the all-important question, when is the next event?,” said King.
“Adrien is ready and excited to show his championship skills once again for the delight of the great boxing fans,” said King.
“I have a fantastic camp with Kevin Cunningham, and I can hardly wait to get back into the ring again,” said Broner. “Winning a world title and constantly defending or unifying the titles is what I am aiming to do.”
“As his proud promoter drops the gauntlet to all the other promoters and challenges them to bring forth their best fighters to (meet) fight super star bad boy of boxing Adrien Broner. Bob Arum, Frank Warren, Al Haymon, Eddie Hearn, and any other promoter with a hot commodity champion, we welcome them all,” said King.
Boxing Hall of Famer Roy Jones Jr. Takes On MMA Legend Anthony Pettis Saturday, April 1 Headlining “Gamebred Boxing 4” Pay-Per-View Event from Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee & Presented by Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred Boxing
MILWAUKEE – March 15, 2023 – Combat sport legends Roy Jones Jr. and Anthony Pettis previewed their upcoming pro boxing clash during a virtual press conference Wednesday before they go toe-to-toe on Saturday, April 1 headlining the “Gamebred Boxing 4” pay-per-view event from Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee in an event presented by Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred Boxing.
The pay-per-view can be purchased through InDEMAND, PPV.com and UFC Fight Pass PPV, with tickets to the live event available through FiservForum.com. Additional event details will be announced shortly.
In the main event, the Boxing Hall of Famer Jones and the former UFC and WEC World Champion Pettis will go toe-to-toe in an intriguing clash of two of combat sports’ most skilled, accomplished and popular champions, as Milwaukee’s Pettis looks to put on a memorable performance for his hometown fans.
Here is what the virtual press conference participants had to say Wednesday:
ROY JONES JR.
“I wanted to fight Anderson Silva back in the day, but it kept getting pushed to the side. When they told me about the Pettis fight, it was intriguing. He’s done things in MMA that no one has ever done. To face someone else with the same kind of creative mind, I couldn’t say no to it.
“He’s different and he’s very creative with his style. He knows what he’s doing. He’s sparring with guys like former world champion Caleb Plant. That’s the right kind of sparring. He’s not playing boxing, he’s serious about it.
“I feel like I was the first person to come up with the crossover boxing vs. MMA fight idea, but I never got to do it. This was the perfect opportunity. I know that he’s gonna go hard with his boxing, because he’s facing one of the greats. If I were playing Michael Jordan one-on-one, I’d put everything into it.
“My game is to help put on an awesome card for the people. My goal in boxing has always been to give the people what they want to see.
“I love the fact that I get to fight in a place I’ve never been. They have the Greek Freak [Giannis Antetokounmpo] there, and we’re both freaks in the ring, so why not make it happen? When you get the opportunity, you gotta shoot, and that’s what we do.
“I’m older, but I’m still wise. What better way for him to learn boxing than against someone who knows basically everything about the sport?”
ANTHONY PETTIS
“It’s crazy to be in this position and be fighting Roy Jones Jr. in my first boxing fight. This is a challenge I’ve been waiting for. You can’t say no to an opportunity like this. This is the kind of challenge that wakes me up every morning and makes me want to bring it.
“I’m just straight boxing now. I’m finding the best boxers I can spar with here in Las Vegas. I’m living the lifestyle. How could you not be motivated when facing a guy like Roy? I come to win fights and that’s the goal April 1.
“I’ve done so much in MMA, but I grew up watching fights like Oscar De La Hoya vs. Felix Trinidad. Watching that is why I got into combat sports. Now that I have this opportunity, I’m hiring the right guys and doing everything I need to do to take this 100% seriously.
“I’ve been working a lot to adjust to fighting at a bigger weight. I was already in fight shape coming into camp, because this is just such a great opportunity. I feel like I’m getting used to the pressure that he’s gonna bring. I’m gonna use the smarts and skills I’ve accumulated over the years and try to put it on him.
“If you look at my UFC career, I fought the best of the best. That’s exactly what I’m bringing to my boxing career. These are the kind of challenges I want.
“I’m testing myself against one of the greats. So this would be huge for MMA as a sport. I’m not going to let this slip through my fingers. I think you’re going to be surprised by my skillset.”
JORGE MASVIDAL, CEO of Gamebred Boxing
“I’m so pumped. I can’t believe I’m looking at Roy and Pettis and it’s all coming to life. I remember Dean and I were having a conversation about this happening months ago, and now it’s happening.
“I’ve been watching Roy since I was a kid, and being a Florida guy, we really go hard for him. We’re so happy to be able to put this together. Pettis is one of the greatest 155 pounders I’ve ever seen. These styles are a great mesh, because they both know how to be flashy.
“I can’t believe this flight is about to take place. Props to everyone for stepping up, especially the fighters, because if it weren’t for them it wouldn’t be happening.
“I know Pettis has been focusing on striking for a while now, and I can’t wait to see how one of my MMA brothers does against one of the greatest boxers to ever live.
“We just want to put on the best cards possible and that’s what this feels like. After a long week’s work, am I gonna shell out the money for this card? When I look at this card, I’d definitely pay for this. This is history for any combat sports enthusiast.”
DEAN TOOLE, President of Gamebred Boxing
“This is only the second event ever that UFC Fight Pass has promoted through a digital pay-per-view, with the other being Mayweather vs. McGregor. That says a lot about how big this event is.
“This fight card is absolutely stacked. We have UFC and Strikeforce world champions, UFC veterans and one of the greatest boxers to ever do it, just to name a few. We have an incredible lineup and I can’t wait to hear from these amazing fighters today.
“We’re also going to have real boxing prospects and up-and-comers on this card. These types of fights will put eyeballs on upcoming boxers who will eventually be headlining these cards.”
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For more information on Gamebred Boxing visit www.gamebredboxing.com, and follow on Twitter @Gamebredboxing, on Instagram @GamebredFC and on their YouTube Channel.
ORLANDO, Fla. (March 13, 2023) – Many of the most promising boxing prospects in Florida, including several promising Cuban boxers, will be showcased on the “Night of Redemption” card, on Saturday night, April 1, at Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.
“Night of Redemption,” co-promoted by Orlando Boxing Promotions and Boxlab Promotions, will be streamed live on pay-per-view from Orlando on www.boxtv.com
“Caribe Royale is looking forward to hosting ‘Night of Redemption’ on April 1st,” said Amaury Piedra, Managing Director, Caribe Royale Resort. “This joint promotion between Boxlab Promotions and Orlando Boxing Promotions will feature a mix of a current regional champion in Idalberto Umara defends his Fedecaribe title, along with up-and-coming prospects such as Orlando’s Adrian Pinheiro, Jeovanny Estela, Joshua Lebron, and others. We’re always proud to have activities at The Resort like this boxing card, which brings in visitors and locals alike. This should be a great night allowing our local young talent to showcase their skills in Central Florida’s home of Boxing, the Caribe Royale Resort.”
“I’m super excited to be promoting my first show in Orlando where I live,” remarked Orlando Boxing Promotions president Tony Blanco, who lived and promoted shows in Connecticut. “To be promoting this show with Boxlab, which is a big boxing company here in Central Florida, and its crew at a beautiful venue like Caribe Royale Resort is amazing.”
Unbeaten Polish cruiserweight Adrian “Pretty Boy” Pinheiro (10-0-1, 9 KOs), fighting out of Orlando, will headline in the 8-round main event against Demetrius Banks (5 KOs), of Detroit. The 25-year-old Pinheiro is coming off his lone non-victory as a professional this past February 25, fighting Isaiah Thompson to a 6-round split draw. Bank is best known for ruining the professional debut of Antwaun Tubbs, the son of former world heavyweight champion Tony Tubbs, by way of a 4-round technical knockout in 2014.
“Adrian is seeking redemption after he fought to a draw in his last fight (Feb. 25th vs. Isaiah Thompson),” added Blanco, who trains Pinhiero. “He’s stepping up to fight his first scheduled 8-round bout and his first main event. He’s coming off a draw but he’s looking at it as a loss. He wants to put that fight behind and move forward. Not only did he want to go 8 rounds, but he also wanted to fight a tough, durable opponent. Most fighters coming off a draw, they’d want a tune-up fight to build back their confidence, but Adrian is ready for what’s coming next for him in his career.”
The 6-round co-featured event undefeated 22-year-old Jeovanny Estela, 10-0, 3 KOs) will put his perfect pro record on the line against Saul “Navajo” Corrall (23-20, 13 KOs), of Mexico. Corrall, who is a former WBC FECARBOX welterweight champion, clearly represents the toughest test of Estela’s young pro boxing career. Battle-tested Corrall has been in the ring with world champions such as Sadam Ali and Victor Ortiz, as well as several contenders, and hot prospects like Estella.
Cuban Idalberto Umara (9-1, 6 KOs), fighting out of Miami, will make his first title defense of the WBA Fedecaribe Lightweight crown in a 10-round title fight versus a challenger to be announced. Umara captured his Fedecarbie championship belt in his last fight by way of a second-round technical knockout of Deivi Julio this past February 25th at Caribe Royale in Orlando.
Two other Cuban boxers are scheduled to be in action. Miami-based Damian Lascaille (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA in a 4-rounder, while Las Vegas heavyweight Henrich Ruiz Cordoba (1-0, 1 KO) is matched in a 6-round bout against veteran Mexican fighter Jose “Olympico” Humberto Corrall (20-32, 12 KOs).
Orlando cruiserweight Daine Smikle (1-0), who was a member of the Jamaican National Boxing Team, is a former Connecticut resident (New Haven) like Blanco who has also resettled in Orlando. Smikle is in a 4-round match vs. TBA.
Also fighting in the undercard is 4-rounders are Orlando super welterweight Ramiro De Jesus (2-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Bryan Duran, of Miami; Orlando cruiserweight A’Mire “Devine” Lewis (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, Orlando lightweight and Puerto Rico native Jonathan Cortes (1-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA; and Orlando’s super bantamweight Joshua Lebron (5-0-1, 4 KOs) vs. TBA.
Located just minutes from the Walt Disney World® Resort in the nation’s number one convention and tourist destination, Caribe Royale Orlando is the only AAA Four Diamond all-suite meetings resort in Orlando. A TripAdvisor 2022 Travelers’ Choice Award winner – among just 10 percent of hotels worldwide to receive the distinction – the upscale Caribe Royale is emerging from a $140 million renovation that includes fully remodeling all of its one-bedroom suites, an all-new 50,000-square-foot grand ballroom (bringing the total meeting space to 220,000 square feet), and an inviting new lobby. Being privately-owned, Caribe Royale offers meeting planners faster approval cycles and more flexibility to create stand-out events. To learn more or to book a visit, event or meeting, visit www.cariberoyale.com. Follow the all-suite convention hotel on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (@cariberoyale), and LinkedIn. #cariberoyaleorlando
BELLATOR 295 MAIN CARD GETS AN UPDATED MAIN CARD START TIME OF 11 P.M. ET/8 P.M. PT
FRIDAY’S SHOW IS FREE TO ALL FIRST RESPONDERS, MILITARY PERSONNEL AND THEIR FAMILIES, WHILE TICKETS FOR SATURDAY’S EVENT ARE CURRENTLY ON SALE
LOS ANGELES – The two main cards for BELLATOR MMA’s annual doubleheader on the Hawaiian island of Oahu are complete with the addition of today’s confirmed bouts.
Honolulu’s Neal S. Blaisdell Arena will play home to a pair of events on back-to-back nights with BELLATOR 294 taking place Friday, April 21 and BELLATOR 295 taking place Saturday, April 22.
BELLATOR 294: Carmouche vs. Bennett 2 – Friday, April 21
Main card airs live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT/4 p.m. local HST
BELLATOR 294: Carmouche vs. Bennett 2 on Fridayhas two new main card contests, bringing Friday’s slate to five fights in total. Former BELLATOR bantamweight title challenger and No. 5-ranked Danny Sabatello (13-2) will return to action for the first time since his shot at the world championship, when he competes against Marcos Breno (15-2), who surprised many people when he bested Josh Hill on the scorecards in his BELLATOR debut. A welterweight contest pitting Levan Chokheli (11-2) and American Top Team’s Michael Lombardo (13-3) is also official for the SHOWTIME-aired portion of the event.
The preliminary card for BELLATOR 294 currently features four fights, including No. 4-ranked heavyweight Tyrell Fortune (12-3), who looks to get back to his winning ways against Russia’s Sergei Bilostennyi (10-2). No. 5-ranked light heavyweight Alex Polizzi (10-2) returns to the BELLATOR cage and will compete against a streaking Karl Moore (11-2), who holds the No. 8 ranking. A lightweight tilt between five-fight BELLATOR veteran Killys Mota (14-3) and promotional newcomer Kenneth Cross (13-3) is official, as is a 145-pound bout between Oregon’s Cris Lencioni (10-3) tangling with Blake Smith (7-3). Rounding out the preliminary card is a middleweight affair between Colorado’s Anthony “Sugafoot” Adams (9-3) and Tajikistan’s Sharaf “Sherkhan” Davlatmurodov (18-4-1).
The card is headlined by a Women’s Flyweight World Championship main event rematch pitting current champion and U.S. Marine Liz Carmouche (18-7) against No. 4 ranked flyweight challenger, DeAnna Bennett (13-7-1). In the evening’s co-main event, No. 6-ranked heavyweight and Minnesota National Guardsman Tim Johnson (15-9) will compete against Said Sowma (8-4). A women’s featherweight contest featuring former UFC title challenger Sara McMann (13-6), who makes her highly anticipated BELLATOR debut against former No. 1 contender, Arlene Blencowe (15-9).
Friday night’s event is being held in honor of America’s Military, Veterans and First-Responders, all of whom are eligible to attend the event with a guest for free entry the day of with valid proof of ID. Free admission is based on a limited capacity and available on a first come-first serve basis.
The BELLATOR 294 preliminary card will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT/2 p.m. HST. The complete bout listing for both events can be found below.
BELLATOR 295: Stots vs. Mix – Saturday, April 22
Updated Start Time – Main card airs live on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/5 p.m. local HST
The main card for Saturday’s BELLATOR 295: Stots vs. Mix event has also been sweetened with the addition of homegrown BELLATOR talent and No. 3-ranked Aaron Pico (10-4), who returns from his highly publicized shoulder injury to square off against Brazil’s Otto Rodrigues (13-1), who makes his BELLATOR debut.
The preliminary portion of Saturday’s event also features multiple new, high-profile additions confirmed including a marquee bout pitting two top-ten contenders against each other at featherweight, when No. 6-ranked Mads Burnell (16-4) tests his skills against No. 7-ranked Justin Gonzales (14-1). No. 8-ranked Ilara Joanne (11-6) meets fellow Brazilian Bruna Ellen (6-4) in a women’s flyweight contest, and a welterweight tilt between Alexey Shurkevich (13-5) and Japan’s Masayuki Kikuiri (8-2-1).
BELLATOR 295 on Saturday is main evented by the Finals of the BELLATOR Bantamweight World Grand Prix, which will see current Interim Champion Raufeon Stots (19-1) face No. 2-ranked Patchy Mix (17-1). In the co-main event, the pride of Honolulu, No. 3-ranked Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (12-2) looks to defend home turf against Japan’s No. 2-ranked Kana Watanabe (11-1-1). Also, at 125-pounds, former BELLATOR World Champion Kyoji Horiguchi (31-5) moves down a division to welcome former UFC Title Challenger Ray Borg (16-5) to the Paramount-owned promotion.
Tickets for BELLATOR 295: Stots vs. Mix are on sale now and are available at Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.
The BELLATOR 295 preliminary card will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT/1 p.m. HST. The complete bout listing for both events can be found below.
BELLATOR 294: CARMOUCHE VS. BENNETT 2 MAIN CARD:
Friday, April 21 – live on SHOWTIME
10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT/4 p.m. HST (local)
Flyweight World Title Bout: C-Liz Carmouche (18-7) vs. #4-DeAnna Bennett (13-7-1)
Heavyweight Co-Main Event: #6-Tim Johnson (15-9)vs. Said Sowma (8-4)
Featherweight Bout: #2-Arlene Blencowe (15-9) vs. Sara McMann (13-6)
Bantamweight Bout: #5-Danny Sabatello (13-2) vs. Marcos Breno (15-2)
Welterweight Bout: Levan Chokheli (11-2, 1 NC) vs. Michael Lombardo (13-3, 1 NC)
BELLATOR 294: CARMOUCHE VS. BENNETT 2 PRELIMINARY CARD:
