Category Archives: boxing

SHOWTIME® TO PREMIERE CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS, CHRONICLING THE INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEY OF NEW YORK’S GOLDEN GLOVES FIGHTERS

 

 

 

Named “Best Feature” at 2017 Big Sky Documentary Film Festival;

CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS To Premiere Friday, September 21 on SHOWTIME

 

 

View, Share, Embed Trailer: https://s.sho.com/2Msfq0X

 

NEW YORK – August 27, 2018 – SHOWTIME has acquired the television rights to CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS, a documentary film that takes viewers through the New York Golden Gloves tournament, one of the most prestigious amateur boxing tournaments in the country. Written and directed by journalist Bartle Bull, the film will premiere Friday, September 21 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME.

 

 

 

CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS chronicles three inspiring fighters—James Wilkins, Nisa Rodriguez, and Titus Williams—as they navigate the 10-week tournament and fight their way among 500 boxers from the five boroughs, all vying for the coveted title of Golden Gloves champion. Through the three intertwined yet unique narratives, the film explores the pressures and sacrifices on the arduous journey toward boxing greatness.

 

 

 

Shot in a cinema verité-style with no voice-over narration, the character-driven narrative examines what it means to “fight for your life,” not only for the boxers, but also for their coaches, mentors, teammates and loved ones. CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS includes genuine characters and intimate revelations set against the gritty urban landscape of New York City to create a powerful and layered account of the 2015 tournament.

 

 

 

The film follows Williams and Wilkins as they battle through opposite sides of the 132-pound bracket. Williams is the tournament favorite on the brink of professional success. He is mentored by coach Joe Higgins, a retired New York City firefighter suffering from illnesses sustained during rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Wilkins, a Staten Island native who channels his propensity for fighting into an amateur career, aims to beat Williams and establish himself as a prospect to watch as he turns to the professional ranks. Meanwhile, single mother and teacher Rodriquez—a five-time Golden Glove champion and self-proclaimed, “fighting pride of the South Bronx”—attempts to cement her legacy as she sets her sights on the 2016 Olympic Trials.

 

 

 

CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS is Bull’s first endeavor into documentary filmmaking. A New York based author and journalist by trade who specializes in foreign affairs and the Middle East, Bull has appeared on NPR, Fox News, BBC, and other news outlets, and his work has been featured in New York TimesWashington Post, and Wall Street Journal.

 

 

 

CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS is executive produced by Donald Rosenfeld (Tree of Life, Jodorowsky’s Dune, Remains of the Day) and written and directed by Bull, in association with cinematographer Tom Hurwitz (The Queen of Versailles) and editor Michael Levine (Restrepo). The film was an official selection at the 2017 American Documentary Film Festival, the 2017 Santa Barbara International Film Festival and Doc NYC 2017.CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS was named Best Feature at the 2017 Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.

 

 

Ruben Villa Remains Unbeaten After Friday NIght’s Unanimous Decision Win

         
PHILADELPHIA, Penn. /ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 27, 2018) –  Ruben Villa (13-0, 5 KOs) continued his trend of routing opponents on the scorecards by thoroughly outpointing Jose Santos Gonzalez (23-7, 13 KOs) in Friday night’s “Locked n’ Loaded” main event.
Villa used his signature quickness to batter Gonzalez throughout the 8-round fight.
“I was able to find the range from the outside and also get inside a little bit,” said Villa after the fight. “He was a little bit awkward, but I still found ways to land combinations.”
To watch a replay of the fight, please click here.
The southpaw from Salinas, Calif. hammered Gonzalez with accurate jabs and punishing left hands. In nearly every round, Villa, 21, rocked Gonzalez on his heels with a variety of punches from all sorts of angles. 
Gonzalez, despite his experience in high profile fights, was unable to muster any kind of attack. He nearly went down in the fifth when Villa cracked him with a body shot. Scores: 80-72, 79-73 twice.
Villa is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.
For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing
Photo by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing

Philly Heavyweight Joey Dawejko Puts UK Olympian Joe Joyce on Blast for Taking Easier Fight

After being stepped over as Joe Joyce’s next opponent, Philadelphia fan favorite Joey Dawejko is calling out the highly touted UK-based heavyweight for taking the easy road.

 

 

 

Since turning professional, Joyce, the outspoken 2016 Olympic Super-Heavyweight Silver Medal Winner and now Commonwealth (British Empire) Heavyweight Champion, has made a habit of publicly calling out the division’s top contenders and champions.

 

 

 

But Dawejko says Joyce’s antics may be just for show, and in reality, his representatives are very protective of their charge.

 

 

 

Dawejko (19-5-4, 11 KOs) says he was offered and accepted the opportunity to face Joyce (5-0, 5 KOs) on the undercard of former welterweight champions Danny Garcia and Shawn Porter’s Saturday, September 8, showdown at the Barclays Center – only to find out Joyce had instead chosen to face Ohio’s Devin Vargas.

 

 

 

Dawejko has spent his professional career as a respected gatekeeper in the division. The 28-year-old has had competitive battles with several of the division’s best and even gave top contender Jarrell Miller the only blot on his undefeated record when he held him to a draw in 2013.

 

 

 

Vargas was a successful amateur boxer, but the former Olympian has sputtered as a professional. He has lost five of his last eight fights and is coming off a first-round knockout loss.

 

 

 

“I got the call the other day from my manager saying we had an offer to fight him and we accepted,” explained Dawejko, “then I found out he took an easier fight. I’m kind of pissed off about it because it was a good opportunity for me. They chose the safe route because they’re definitely protecting him. They talk a good game, but at the end of the day they just want easy fights.”

 

 

 

Dawejko says exposing Joyce would have given him the chance to finally break through to the upper echelon.

 

 

 

“They’re building this guy like he’s something special and he’s not. I see nothing special about him. He has size, but that doesn’t matter. I don’t think he’s as good as people are making him out to be. I could definitely beat him. He’s big and slow and gets hit a lot and his defense isn’t there. I know I could beat him.”

 

 

 

Not giving up, Dawejko wants Joyce to know he’d be happy to face him in his next fight… if Joyce isn’t too timid.

 

 

 

“If he really wants to challenge himself, step up and fight me. I‘m ready to go at any time. I’ll fight him any day of the week.”

 

 

 

About Greg Cohen Promotions

 

 

 

One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.

 

 

 

Founder and CEO Greg Cohen has been involved with professional boxing in various capacities since the late 1980s, honing his craft and establishing himself as a shrewd international boxing businessman.

 

 

 

Distinguished by his ability to spot and develop raw talent, Cohen first made promotional headlines for his expert guidance of, among many others, former WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout, who Cohen helped guide from unknown New Mexico prospect to elite pay-per-view level superstar.

 

 

 

In addition to Trout, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney.

 

 

 

Cohen currently promotes undefeated WBO NABO Heavyweight Champion a top contender Jarrell Miller, top-rated middleweight contender Robert Brant, and former WBO NABO Lightweight Champion and world-rated contender Mason Menard, among many others.

 

 

 

Greg Cohen Promotions has hosted world-class boxing events in the finest venues throughout the United States and the world and has also proudly provided talent and/or content for several television networks including CBS Sports Network, HBO, Showtime, ESPN, NBC Sports Network, CBS Sports Network, MSG and FOX Sports Net.

 

 

 

For more information, visit gcpboxing.com. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GCPBoxing. Twitter: @GCPBoxing.

Coyle forced to withdraw from October 6 fight

Team-Coyle.jpg

Tampa, FL (August 24, 2018) – Connor “The Kid” Coyle was forced to withdraw from his October 6 bout as part of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions’ “Night of Champions” card in St. Petersburg, FL.

 

 

 

During his training camp in Ireland, Coyle’s back began to swell and cause him pain. The unbeaten 28-year-old battled through the back problems and continued training. Unfortunately, the pain got worse and aggressively spread throughout his body.

 

 

 

Coyle then checked into a local hospital. Doctors believe he has an inflammatory infection and ran a number of tests. In the interim, Coyle must refrain from training during the next 6 weeks.

 

 

 

“I’d like to sincerely apologize to my fans for being unable to compete,” said Coyle, who is 8-0 and coming off a dominant stoppage victory in June. “This is a bump in the road and I’ll be back more motivated to focus on another fight soon.”

 

 

 

Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions believes Coyle will come back strong when the time is right but is most concerned about his fighter’s current health.

 

 

 

“I feel terrible about this entire situation because Connor is like a son to me,” said Caliguire. “This is extremely unfortunate and Connor needs to get the proper rest to ensure his body is ready whenever he decides he’s healthy enough to return to training.”

 

 

 

Coyle was scheduled to headline for the ABF Continental Americas middleweight championship and a new main event will be announced shortly.

 

 

 

For more information on Fire Fist Boxing Promotions, visit Firefistboxing.net.

Three-Hour Premier Boxing Champions Show Features Jamal James Delivering Second Round Knockout of Mahonry Montes in Front of Hometown Crowd Friday Night on FS1 & FOX Deportes from The Armory in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (August 24, 2018) – Welterweight contender Jamal James (24-1, 11 KOs)gave his hometown crowd a treat as he sent Mahonry Montes (35-8-1, 24 KOs)to the canvas for a second round knockout in the main event of a jam-packed three-hour night of Premier Boxing Champions action Friday fromthe Armory in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

 

 

 

“I came out here to make a statement and I’m even happier to be able to do it right here at home,” said James. “The support in Minnesota is amazing and it gave me the extra motivation to get the job done in spectacular fashion. Everyone knows I attack the body and tonight I was able to use it to get the finish”

 

 

 

In his second straight fight at the Armory, James made a statement by quickly dispatching Mexico’s Montes with a punishing left hook to the body that left his opponent crumpled on the canvas.

 

 

 

James broke through in the last 30 seconds of the second round, landing numerous unanswered right hands that put Montes in immediate trouble. James finished the show with the devastating body shot that eventually forced referee Mark Nelson to halt the bout at 2:58 of the round.

 

 

 

“I feel like I’m ready for the elite welterweights and tonight proved it again,” said James. “I’m going to keep working hard and taking down anyone they put in front of me. It’s time for me to make my mark in the division.”

 

 

 

In the co-main event, middleweight contender Willie Monroe Jr. (23-3, 6 KOs) showed off his boxing skill and picked apart Javier Francisco Maciel (33-7, 23 KOs) to score a unanimous decision in their 10-round bout.

 

 

 

Monroe was dominant with his jab, movement and an array of offensive attacks. He was able to vary his punches enough to keep the aggressive Maciel from landing anything that caused damage.

 

 

 

Maciel looked to score with power punches and body shots, but the former title challenger Monroe was comfortable on the outside and mixing it up inside on his way to winning the fight by scores of 99-91 and 100-90 twice.

 

 

 

The opening bout of the telecast featured fast-rising prospect and 2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis (7-0, 5 KOs) as he earned a unanimous decision over Levan Ghvamichava (18-4-1, 13 KOs)in their eight-round welterweight matchup.

 

 

 

Stanionis rode a powerful jab and sharp combination punching to the dominant victory as he faced the toughest opposition of his pro career to date. Ghvamichava was game and tried to counter the hard-charging Stanionis but was too often taking the worst of exchanges on the inside. At the end of the action all three judges saw the bout in favor of Stanionis by scores of 80-72 and 79-73 twice.

 

 

 

Additional action saw Jeison Rosario (16-1-1, 11 KOs) score a unanimous decision over Jamontay Clark (13-1, 7 KOs) in their 10-round super welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Rosario scored a highlight reel knockdown with a counter right hand in the third round that saw Clark tumble out of the ring. Clark was able to return to the ring and beat the count, but he took more damage throughout the bout before losing the decision by scores of 99-90, 98-91 and 97-92, all in favor of Rosario.

 

 

 

A scheduled heavyweight bout ended in shocking fashion before it ever began, as heavyweight prospect Efe Ajagba (6-0, 5 KOs) was awarded a victory by disqualification against Curtis Harper (13-6, 9 KOs) when Harper exited the ring moments after the opening bell rang, opting not to face Ajagba.

 

 

 

Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes saw rising super welterweight prospect Sebastian Fundora (10-0, 6 KOs) stop Antonio Urista (10-3, 2 KOs)at 2:22 of the fourth round, undefeated super welterweight Leon Lawson (8-0, 4 KOs) win a unanimous decision over Brandon Adams (4-7-1, 2 KOs) in their six-round fight and unbeaten prospect Gary Antonio Russell (12-0,10 KOs) score a first round knockout of Nick Otieno (31-15, 13 KOs) just 1:18 into the round.

 

 

 

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @WarriorsBoxProm, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing.

AMATEUR STANDOUT OMAR JUAREZ LOOKS TO SHINE IN PBC PRELIMS ON FS1 

 Photos by Team Juarez

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (August 23, 2018) – Highly decorated 19-year old amateur standout, Omar El Relampago Juarez, is eager to show the world his talent when he makes his pro debut tomorrow on the PBC prelims on FS1 card in Minneapolis, MN.  Juarez, who hails from Brownsville, TX, will face Devon Hostler (3-8, 3 KOs) in a 4-round super-lightweight bout.

 

 

 

“Making my pro debut on national television is a dream come true and I’m very grateful for this opportunity,” said Omar Juarez. “I’ve worked my whole life for this moment and now its time to show the world what I’m made of. I plan to be electrifying when I step in the ring with Hostler.”

 

 

 

With over 120 amateur fights under his belt, Juarez stands 5’9″ and has a tremendous boxing IQ to go along with lightning fast hand speed. He started boxing at age 8 and won numerous state and national titles. Juarez, a boxer-puncher, who often switches stances during his fights, feels his style is unique to others in the sport.

 

 

 

“I like to make adjustments on the fly and being able to switch from southpaw to conventional is an advantage I have over my opponents,” Juarez continued. “I feel my style is like no other in the sport right now and it will be on display this Friday.”

 

 

 

Juarez is also very popular in his hometown of Brownsville TX, where he often does motivational speeches at schools in the area. His following in his hometown is quite fascinating.

 

 

 

“Back home I made the decision to start speaking at schools and establish myself as a positive role model to the kids in my area.” Juarez continued. “I will have a lot of fans tuning in this Friday when I make my pro debut. I really want to dedicate this first fight to all my people back home in Brownsville who have supported me over the years. I’m thankful for their support.”

 

 

 

Juarez is trained his father Rudy Juarez and co-trainer Rick Nunez. Together they will be working Omar’s corner in Minneapolis.

 

 

 

Coverage of prelims begins at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT live on FS1 and FOX Deportes on Friday, August 24 from the Armory in Minneapolis.

Brandon Adams Journey on The Contender begins Tomorrow Night on EPIX®


 

PHILADELPHIA / LOS ANGELES – AUGUST 23, 2018 – Middleweight Brandon Adams will be featured on The Contender that will begin Tomorrow Night, August 24th on EPIX®  at 10 PM ET/PT.

 

 

 

Adams, 17-2 with 12 knockouts fights out of Los Angles, California was finalist in the Boxcino Middleweight and Junior Middleweight tournaments in 2014 and 2015.

 

 

 

 

Adams will attempt to come through in the 16-man competition that in previous years has sprung fighters like Sergio Mora and Cornelius Bundrage to world titles.

 

 

 

About MGM Television

MGM Television is a leading producer and global distributor of premium content for television and digital platforms, with distribution rights to original productions and a robust catalog of television episodes and feature film titles including such premiere entertainment franchises as James Bond, Rocky, Stargate and The Hobbit trilogy.  Current scripted and unscripted projects include Fargo (FX); Vikings (HISTORY); The Handmaid’s Tale (Hulu); Get Shorty (EPIX); The Voice (NBC); Survivor (CBS); Shark Tank (ABC); Teen Wolf (MTV); Steve Harvey’s FUNDERDOME (ABC); Beat Shazam (FOX); Signed (VH1); Lucha Underground (The El Rey Network); and through its distribution entity, Orion TV Productions, the syndicated daytime courtroom series Lauren Lake’s Paternity Court and Couples Court with The Cutlers. In addition, MGM owns Evolution Media, the innovative unscripted television producers of The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Vanderpump Rules, Vanderpump Rules: Jax and Brittany Take Kentucky, and Sweet Home Oklahoma (Bravo); Botched (E!); Bug Juice (Disney Channel) and Growing Up Supermodel (Lifetime).MGM’s television programming regularly airs in more than 100 countries worldwide.  For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

 

 

 

About EPIX

EPIX, an MGM company, is a premium pay television network, delivering the latest movie releases and biggest classic film franchises, plus original programming including series, documentaries, and comedy specials – all available on TV, on demand, online and across devices. Launched in October 2009, EPIX became profitable in its first year of existence and is now available nationwide to 70 million homes through cable, telco, satellite and emerging digital distribution platforms. A pioneer in the development and proliferation of “TV Everywhere,” EPIX was the first premium network to provide multi-platform access to its content online at EPIX.com and to launch on Xbox, PlayStation®, Android phones and tablets, and Roku® players. EPIX is also available across hundreds of consumer devices including Apple TV, iPhone and iPad, Amazon Fire TV, TiVo, Chromecast, and Android TV, delivering more movies than any other network with thousands of titles available for streaming. For more information about EPIX, go to www.EPIX.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHd (http://www.twitter.com/EpixHD) and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/EPIX), YouTube (http://youtube.com/EPIX), Instagram (http://instagram.com/EPIX) and Snapchat @EPIXTV.

 

 

 

About Paramount Television

Paramount Television is a leading studio, developing and financing a wide range of cutting-edge and entertaining television content across all media platforms for distribution worldwide. The studio’s robust slate includes Tom Clancy’s “Jack Ryan” (Amazon), “13 Reasons Why” (Netflix), “Maniac” (Netflix), “Shooter” (USA), “Berlin Station” (EPIX), “The Alienist” (TNT), “The Haunting of Hill House” (Netflix), “Catch-22” (Hulu), “First Wives Club” (Paramount Network), “Looking for Alaska” (Hulu), “Briarpatch” (USA), “Boomerang” (BET), “Shantaram” (Apple), “Dream Team” (BET), “The Contender” (EPIX) and “Snow Crash” (Amazon), among others. Paramount Television is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment. PPC is a subsidiary of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a global content company with premier television, film and digital entertainment brands.

Former Welterweight Champion Victor Ortiz Clashes with Hard-Hitting Brawler John Molina Jr. in Premier Boxing Champions Main Event Live on FS1 & FOX Deportes Sunday, September 30 from Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California

 
 
Tickets on Sale Tomorrow at 12 p.m. PT!

ONTARIO, CA. (August 23, 2018) – Expect fireworks when former welterweight champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz meets hard-hitting former title challenger John Molina Jr. on Sunday, September 30 in the 12-round main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes live from Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California.

 

 

 

 

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature a stacked lineup of undercard attractions leading up to the action-packed main event.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, go on sale tomorrow, August 24 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

 

 

 

Ortiz (32-6-3, 25 KOs) is an all-action boxer-puncher who comes to fight and is always in exciting battles. The 31-year-old southpaw has one of the best resumes of anyone in the welterweight division having been in against Floyd Mayweather, Andre Berto twice, Lamont Peterson, Luis Collazo and Marcos Maidana. Ortiz, who was born in Garden City, Kansas and now lives in Ventura, California, is coming off a majority draw against Devon Alexander in February.

 

 

 

“We’ve known each other a long time and we’re both always in exciting battles, so fans should expect nothing less on September 30,” said Ortiz. “I had a broken eye socket from an injury in the second round of the Alexander fight, but I’m feeling 100 percent now. I’m ready to take what is rightfully mine, and that’s another world title down the road. It’s going to be a way from round one and I can’t wait.”

 

 

 

Molina (30-7, 24 KOs) has never backed down from a challenge and has been in the ring with some of the best boxers from lightweight to welterweight during his career. The 35-year-old from Covina, California beat a fierce Ruslan Provodnikov by unanimous decision in 2016. Another standout battle from Molina’s career saw him drop former welterweight champion Lucas Matthysse twice before losing on an 11th round knockout. In his last fight he scored a fourth round TKO victory over Ivan Redkach in a back-and-forth bout from December on FS1.

 

 

 

“I respect Victor and everything he’s accomplished in this game, but I know that I have the tools to overcome everything he does,” said Molina. “Everyone knows that I’m in it to win it. We’re both going to be ready to mix it up and throw bombs. There is no way that I see this fight going the distance. It’s going to come down to heart and I’m going to be there until final bell.”

 

 

 

“Victor Ortiz vs. John Molina Jr. has war written all over it and should be another in a long line of memorable battles featuring these Southern California fan-favorites,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “These two men are known for leaving it all in the ring and giving the fans incredible action from the opening bell. I have no doubt that this will be another outstanding showdown, with the winner setting themselves up for even bigger things in the star-studded welterweight division. We’re excited to bring this matchup, plus a jam-packed undercard, to the fans in Ontario and watching live on FS1 and FOX Deportes.”

 

 

 

“This is a true crossroads battle between two hardnosed veterans who have fought almost every welterweight of note in the last decade,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The one thing you can be certain of when you get Victor Ortiz and John Molina Jr. in the ring is that a fight will break out. This match should be highly entertaining for the fans at Citizens Business Bank Arena and those who tune in on FS1 and FOX Deportes on September 30.”

 

 

 

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @Ringstar, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Brandon Robinson to now take on Ernest Amuzu in main event on Friday, September 14th The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

   
 
Three-Time Olympian and undefeated Anvar Yunusov to appear in co-feature
 

Undefeated Raeese Aleem, Daiyann Butt, Alejandro Jimenez, Crystian Peguero, Keeshawn Williams and Shyngyskhan Tazhibay


 

Philadelphia, PA (August 23, 2018) –Brandon Robinson will now take on veteran Ernest Amuzu in the eight-round super middleweight main event that will headline a great night of action on Friday, September 14th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

The nine-bout card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

 

 

 

Robinson of Philadelphia has a record of 10-1 with seven knockouts.

 

 

 

The 30 year-old Robinson has won 10 straight fights, and has quickly established himself as one of the top super middleweight prospects in the country.  The 2 year-pro is coming off a eight-round unanimous decision over Oscar Riojas on April 6th at the 2300 Arena,

 

 

 

Amuza of Prichard, Alabama by way of Ghana, has an impressive mark of 24-3 with 22 knockouts.

 

 

 

The 35 year-old Amuzu is an eight-year professional, who is coming off a knockout win over David Okai on April 30th in Accra, Ghana

 

 

 

In the co-feature undefeated super feather Anvar Yunusov will take on Angel Monreal in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds.

 

 

 

Yunusov is a three-time Olympian from his native Tajikstan, competed in the 2008, 2012 and 2016 games.

 

 

 

As a professional, Yunusov is 3-0 with wins over Justin Savi (30-12-2) and Deo Kizito (3-1).

 

 

 

Monreal of Monterrey, Mexico has a record of 10-10-1 with 3 knockouts.

 

 

 

Monreal, 30, is a nine-year pro and has a career best win over Daniel Reta (4-1).

 

 

 

In his last bout, Monreal lost to Jabar Zayani on August 18, 2017 in Studio City, California.

 

 

 

Also in an eight-round bout, Raeese Aleem (11-0, 5 KOs) of Las Vegas returns to the scene of his best victory to date, when he takes on Alcides Santiago (6-2, 5 KOs) of Arecibo, Puerto Rico in a super bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

Aleem defeated previously undefeated Marcus Bates on April 6th at the 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

Santiago of Arecibo, Puerto Rico has a record of 6-2 with five knockouts.

 

 

 

Like Aleem, Santiago is coming off a win over an undefeated foe.  Santiago stopped Bryan Chevallier  in two rounds on June 17, 2017 in Caguas, Puerto Rico.

 

 

 

In a six-round welterweight bout, Shyngyskhan Tazhibay (6-0, 2 KOs) of Washington, D.C. battles Yasmani Pedroso (2-4, 1 KO) of Miami, FL.

 

 

 

In four-round bouts:

 

 

 

Jerrod Miner (1-1-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles Alejandro Jimenez (2-0, 1 KO) of New Hope, PA in a bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

Crystian Peguero (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on pro debuting Yueri Andujar of Reading, PA in a featherweight contest.

 

 

 

Bhieem Billups of Philadelphia will make his pro debut over Kenny Hill (0-1) of Moorehead City, North Carolina in a welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Christopher Burgos (0-2-1) of Philadelphia fights Robert Ramos (1-5-1, 1 KO) of Allentown, PA in a super featherweight scrap.

 

 

 

Keeshawn Williams (2-0, 1 KO) of Washington, D.C. will take on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight bout.

 

 

 

 

Tickets for this great night of boxing can be purchased at www.2300arena.com for $100, $75 and $50.

TOP 147-POUND CONTENDERS YORDENIS UGAS & CESAR BARRIONUEVO TALK TRAINING CAMP, POTENTIAL FIGHT WITH GARCIA-PORTER WINNER & MORE

 
Welterweight Title Eliminator Live on SHOWTIME Saturday, September 8 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn &
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

 

BROOKLYN (August 23, 2018) – There is no looking ahead to future fights for top 147-pound contenders Yordenis Ugas of Cuba and Cesar Barrionuevo of Argentina as the two sluggers prepare for their WBC title eliminator matchup in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING action on Saturday, September 8 live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME main event will pit two of the division’s biggest names against each other as former 147-pound champions Danny “Swift” Garcia and “Showtime” Shawn Porter square off for the vacant WBC Welterweight World Championship. The winner of Ugas vs. Barrionuevo earns the WBC’s second mandatory position to the winner of Garcia vs. Porter.

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, in association with DSG Promotions, start at $50 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.combarclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

 

 

Ugas, (22-3, 11 KOs), returns to the SHOWTIME stage for the second time. In February, he handed Ray Robinson his first defeat since a 2010 decision to Shawn Porter. Barrionuevo, (34-3-2, 24 KOs), making his U.S. debut, has won 10 fights in a row and has only lost once since 2010 as he looks to follow in the footsteps of Marcos Maidana and Lucas Matthysse, elite welterweights from Argentina.

 

 

 

Here is what the 32-year-old Ugas and 29-year-old Barrionuevo had to say from their respective camps about their September 8 matchup:

 

 

 

YORDENIS UGAS

 

 

 

Overall, how is your training going in Las Vegas and who have you sparred with?

 

 

“We have been training at Fernando Vargas’ gym, the Feroz Fight Factory gym. We’ve been sparring with Jose Benavidez Jr. and Diego Magdaleno, and a few other locals. Nothing is really different with this camp compared to others. I’m 100 percent committed to training for this fight.”

 

 

 

What are the advantages of training in Las Vegas? 

“I’ve been in Las Vegas for the past two and a half years. This place has changed my life. I came out here and started training with Ismael Salas, who has trained many of the best Cuban boxers. There is such good sparring out here, and there’s also mountains. I love running up Mount Charleston. This is just a perfect place for a fighter to train.”

 

 

 

How are you preparing to face a southpaw like Cesar Barrionuevo?

“We are sparring with lefties and trying to mirror exactly what we think we’ll see. The Argentine fighters always come to fight and are well prepared. They always go to war. Luckily I like to go to war too. So I think we have good styles that will give the fans a great fight.”

 

 

 

What else do you know about your opponent?

“I’ve seen some footage and that’s it. It’s not really about what he does or brings, it’s all about staying focused on what I do best. I don’t take much time off so I’m always in the gym training. I did go down to Miami a few weeks ago and actually trained in Barrionuevo’s gym and met some guys he works with, but we never crossed paths.”

 

 

 

You are returning to fight on SHOWTIME for a second time. Does that give you an advantage?

“Everyone who knows boxing knows I’m the more experienced fighter. This is one of his first times he’s fighting outside Argentina. I know he’s a big deal there, but he’s never seen a stage like this, with all the bright lights. I’m going to be prepared for the best Argentine fighter that shows up that night.”

 

 

 

What is your prediction of the Garcia-Porter fight?

“I think they are two great fighters and whoever is the most prepared on that night will win the fight. Because this is a WBC eliminator, I know there’s a chance I could fight one of them if I win my fight. I would love to fight either of them.”

 

 

 

CESAR BARRIONUEVO

 

How is your training camp going in Miami and who have you sparred with?

“Technically, everything is strong and with my coaches Carlos [Morgan] and Pablo [Martinez] we feel good about where we are and what we’re doing. I want to be 100 percent ready on September 8 for the fight of my life. I feel like I will be and am so grateful for the support of my team and everyone here at Caicedo Sports’ gym. I have been sparring with a bunch of local prospects, young guys with undefeated records and guys that are in the same boat as I am looking to become a world champion.”

 

 

 

How are you preparing for an aggressive fighter like Ugas?

“I’m formulating my plan and intensifying my training so I’m 100 percent ready. I’m focusing on my cardio and increasing my strength. That’s why I’m here in the U.S., because the level of competition is better than back home. I feel that everything I’m doing is a step up. I’m having the best training camp of my life. I’m not worrying about my opponents’ style.”

 

 

 

What do you know about your opponent?

“We have watched some film, but that doesn’t always help you. Split-second adjustments will be made if needed. I’m a fighter at the end of the day, and will be ready for whatever he puts in front of me. I have never met him, but I know he came and worked out at my gym. I don’t know him, but maybe after the fight we can be friends. Right now it’s kill or be killed.”

 

 

 

What are your thoughts about fighting on the big stage at Barclays Center?

“I know I have a huge fan base in Argentina and can’t wait to go back there and celebrate a win with them. I’m so proud of all the past world champions that have come from my country, but I’m not coming to Brooklyn as a tourist. I’m coming to fight and get the victory in spectacular fashion and to put Argentina back on the map in the sport of boxing. The objective is to look good and win and to leave a good impression fighting on SHOWTIME and for everyone watching.”

 

 

 

What is your prediction of the Garcia-Porter fight?

“It’s a tough fight. Maybe 50-50, but I’m leaning toward Danny Garcia. I think his experience as a world champion will show.”

 

 

 

 

Is it hard not to look ahead to a possible future fight with one of those guys?

“I haven’t thought about it for even one second. I’m focused on my next task, and that’s Ugas. I’m coming to do what needs to be done to get the win. And I’ll get that win with blood, sweat and tears. I’ll focus on Danny Garcia or Shawn Porter when the time comes.”

 

 

 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @DannySwift, @ShowtimeShawnP,  @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxingand www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.