Category Archives: boxing

FACEBOOK FIGHTNIGHT LIVE SERIES ECLIPSES 1,000,000 VIEW PLATEAU THIS PAST SATURDAY

Ten month-old fan-friendly fight series averages 88,952 views per show; set for first-ever “tripleheader weekend” Feb. 23-24.
NEW YORK (Feb. 15, 2018) – The million-view mountaintop has been summitted by the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series, with sights set only higher for what is to come in 2018. The ten month-old, fan-friendly Facebook platform has already featured two outstanding fight cards in the first six weeks of the New Year – and up next: Feb. 23-24 back-to-back-to-back Friday and Saturday shows spanning from the casinos of New England to the Boardwalk of Atlantic City.
The interactive series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience recorded new high-marks with 5,033 in-show comments and 3,421 total hours viewed in Philadelphia last Saturday. The ultimate result of all of the show-by-show views, the series interactivity and the global reach of the Facebook platform throughout the U.S.A. and also to significant audiences in the U.K., Mexico and South America – FIGHTNIGHT LIVE surpassed a new milestone by reaching its 1,067,435th view in only its 12th show.
And Facebook itself has taken notice – the world’s No. 1 social network recently profiled FIGHTNIGHT LIVE on its “Success Stories” media blog, noting the series’ use of best practices for production and interactivity:   https://www.facebook.com/facebookmedia/success-stories/fightnight
“THANK YOU, fight fans! We’re extremely proud that Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has provided free, action-packed events for more than a million fans in just over nine months, by posting a show-by-show average audience of nearly 90,000,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “But beyond the numbers, we’re really pleased with the way the shows have been presented, using multiple promoter-friendly production models. We’ve been able to showcase up-and-coming fighters to fight fans all over the world, and help them expand their bases. And we’ve been able to invite our viewers to be part of the action by fostering real-time interaction between our broadcasters and viewers on the fight activity, the decisions and the knockouts; it’s the next-best thing to having a ringside seat.”
Over the first nine-plus months of programming, the numbers on the 12-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series have showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of close to 90,000 fight fans tuning in per event and more than one-million fans served.
The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) all topped 150,000 views, and collectively the 12-show series saw a total of more than 21,000 total hours of Facebook video consumed by 1,067,435-plus users across all devices.
In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 142,000 collective live post engagements (nearly 12,000 per show), including almost 97,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 22,000 comments and almost 6,000 shares.
FIGHTNIGHT LIVE broadcasts are viewed by 76 percent men, 24 percent women. The top demographic is comprised of males ages 25-34, which encompasses approximately 30.0 percent of the audience, on average.
The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” set a new bar with 224,658 views and the Sept. 15-16 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Feb. 10 Hard-Hitting Promotions “Philly Fight Night” show stands out individually with 3,421 live hoursof content viewed, while the Sept. 15 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves.”
The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 80,000 fans and more than 82,000 followers.
            Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has been delivered to fans absolutely free since its May 2017 launch courtesy of series corporate partners like Elite Heat WaterMontauk Iced Tea (montaukbev.com), Mr. Custom Made(mrcustommade.com) and BallWash (ballwash.com).
Many FIGHTNIGHT LIVE cards are called by world-renowned blow-by-blow announcer Ray Flores of Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime Boxing, HBO Boxing and CBS Sports Networks. Often joining Flores ringside are analysts like Michael Woods of the TalkBox Podcast, NYFights.com and Ring TV. Marc Abrams of AWE, NBC Sports Philadelphia, 15Rounds.com and AbramsBoxing.com and Xavier Porter of BrooklynFights.com and Notorious Boxing are frequent contributors while pro fighters like former IBF and WBA World Champion Paulie Malignaggi and Top Ten world-ranked light heavyweight Mike Lee have provided expert analysis from the broadcast booth. Locally-based ringside reporters with significant social media followings are often employed for weigh-in day “behind the scenes” taped interviews and post-fight reports.
Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.
More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Winter/Spring 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.
FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/
Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

FOCUSED REGIS PROGRAIS UNDAUNTED BY CHANGE IN OPPONENT TO JULIUS INDONGO FOR INTERIM WBC SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FRIDAY, MARCH 9 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Live At 10 p.m. ET/PT From Deadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood, South Dakota

 

 

 

 

HOUSTON (Feb. 15, 2018) – Undefeated 140-pound contender Regis “Rougarou” Prograis remains focused on the prize despite the recent change in opponent for his March 9 showdown for the Interim WBC Super Lightweight World Championship.  Prograis will now face former unified world champion Julius Indongo in the 12-round main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT from Deadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood, South Dakota.

 

 

 

 

 

The southpaw Indongo replaced Viktor Postol, who was forced to withdraw from the bout on Monday with a hand injury.  

 

 

 

 

 

“Lou called and told me about what happened to Viktor Postol and that Indongo could be the new opponent and I said yes immediately,” said Prograis. “I always want to fight the best and with Indongo being a former unified champion, he brings a great deal of credibility to the fight. Both of his titles were won on the road in Russia and Scotland, so I know how fearless and determined he will be.

 

 

 

“I had to switch up my training a little for sparring with Indongo being a lefty and a little taller, but I’m sparring with middleweights. I’ve heard how hard he hits and I want to be fully prepared. Maybe down the line Postol and I could still fight, but I’m only focused on Indongo now. This is my time and my year to shine. I’m ready to put on a spectacular performance on March 9.”

 

 

 

 

 

“This fight came together in a matter of two phone calls – one to Prograis and one to Indongo – and that speaks volumes about the championship mentality of both fighters,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Prograis wanted to fight the best fighter available, even if that fighter presented a different style and was recently a unified champion. Indongo immediately jumped at the opportunity to again be a champion. They are true professionals and their desire to fight will be evident in the ring.”

 

 

 

 

The event is presented by DiBella Entertainment, in association with Fight Promotions Inc., Holden Productions and Sauerland Promotions. Tickets, priced at $200, $80 and $60, are on sale now and can be purchased on Ticketmaster.com or by calling (877) 907-4726. The doors open and first bout begins at 5:30 p.m. More information on Deadwood Mountain Grand can be found on their website at www.DeadwoodMountainGrand.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Fighting out of Namibia and now training in Omaha, NE, Indongo (22-1, 11 KOs) is a former unified champion who held the IBF and WBA 140-pound titles. 

 

 

 

 

 

In 2016, Indongo traveled to Moscow, Russia, to dethrone IBF Junior Welterweight Champion Eduard Troyanovsky with a stunning first-round knockout. In his first defense, Indongo traveled to Glasgow, Scotland, for a unification bout with WBA Champion Ricky Burns.  The 35-year-old won a 12-round unanimous decision to become unified champion.  

 

 

 

 

 

In his first bout as a unified titleholder, Indongo made his U.S. debut against fellow undefeated and unified champion Terence Crawford in a showdown to determine the undisputed champion of the 140-pound division.  It was the first championship bout with all four major world titles at stake since Jermain Taylor dethroned Bernard Hopkins in 2005.  Indongo lost to Crawford to suffer the only defeat of his professional career. 

 

 

 

 

 

Prograis (20-0, 17 KOs), of Houston by way of New Orleans, has scored knockouts in 13 of his last 14 fights and is a rising star in the wide-open 140-pound division. Indongo represents the toughest challenge of his career.

 

 

 

 

 

In the 12-round co-feature, undefeated 140-pound contenders Ivan Baranchyk (17-0, 10 KOs) and Anthony Yigit (21-0-1, 7 KOs) will square off in a Junior Welterweight World Title Eliminator to become the mandatory challenger for IBF champion Sergey Lipinets. Lipinets will defend his belt the following day, March 10, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® against undefeated three-division champion Mikey Garcia.

 

Mykal Fox decisions Ricardo Garcia in main event of King’s Promotions card at Sands Bethlehem Event Center

    
Cintron & Taylor battle to a no-contest
Wins by Madison, Mansfield, Coffie, Sanchez, Cannida & Jules
Bethlehem, PA (February 15, 2018) – This past Tuesday night, junior welterweight Mykal Fox took an eight-round unanimous decision over tough Ricardo Garcia in the main event of an eight-bout card at the

Sands Bethlehem Event Center.
The card was promoted by King’s Promotions.
Fox of Forestville, Maryland remained undefeated by using his long reach, as he used his jab and nice left hands.  Garcia landed haymaker shots from time to time,  but over the second half of the fight, Fox made the proper adjustments and timed Garcia lunging in.  The damage inflicted by Fox was evident as Garcia’s left eye began to swell midway through the fight.  In round seven, with his eye nearly shut, Garcia ate a right hook that put him on the canvas.
Fox took the decision by scores of 78-73 twice and 77-74 to further his perfect mark to 16-0.  Garcia, 142.1 lbs of Dominican Republic dropped his 2nd straight fight, and is now 14-2.
Former two-time world welterweight champion Kermit Cintron and Marquis Taylor fought to a no-contest after an accidental headbutt caused a bad cut on the right eyelid of Cintron.
The end came at 35 seconds of round three of the scheduled eight-round super welterweight bout.
Cintron, 153.7 lbs of Reading, PA is 39-6-3.  Taylor, 153.8 lbs of Houston, TX is 8-1.
Colby Madison fought through a cut on the bridge of his nose to win a six-round unanimous decision over Dante Selby in a heavyweight bout.
Madison, 247 lbs of Owings Mills, MD won by scores of 60-54 & 59-55 twice to remain undefeated at 6-0-1.  Selby, 230 lbs of Philadelphia is 2-4-1.
Blake Mansfield stopped Darryl Bunting in round five of their scheduled six-round middleweight bout.
The bout was entertaining as the two landed good shots on each other.  Bunting was cut over his right eye from a punch in round two.  Mansfield was deducted a point in round four as his mouthpiece came out several times.
Mansfield ended the fight in round five when he landed a hard combination that had Bunting in trouble on the ropes.  Several hard an unanswered punches later, the fight was stopped at 36 seconds.
Mansfield, 162.4 lbs of Burington, NC is 6-1-1 with four knockouts.  Bunting, 163 lbs of Asbury Park, NJ is 3-3-2.
Michael Coffie won a four-round unanimous decision over tough Nicoy Clarke in a heavyweight bout.
Coffie, 269 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won all cards 40-36, and is now 2-0.  Clarke, 206.8 lbs of Jersey City, NJ was making his pro debut.
Juan Sanchez stopped Sergio Aguilar in the final scheduled round of the their four round featherweight bout.
Sanchez scored knockdowns in round one, two in round two, and finished the show with a hard left that sent Aguilar down and out with just five seconds remaining in the bout.
Sanchez, 125.5 lbs of Allentown, PA is 5-0 with two knockouts.  Aguilar, 123 lbs of Homestead, FL is 2-7.
Kendall Cannida made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Leroy Jones in a cruiserweight bout.
Cannida, 175.1 lbs of Philadelphia won on all cards by 40-36 scores.  Jones, 174.5 lbs of Newark, NJ is 2-2.
Martino Jules won a four-round unanimous decision over Malik Loften in a battle of previously undefeated featherweight’s.
Jules scored a knockdown in round two and won by scores of 39-38 and 37-37 twice.
Jules, 127.1 lbs of Philadelphia is 3-0.  Loften, 125.8 lbs of Suitland, MD is 1-1.
King’s Promotions returns with a terrific night of action on Friday, March 2nd at The SugarHouse Casino.

Danny Garcia vs. Brandon Rios Plus David Benavidez vs. Ronald Gavril and Yordenis Ugas vs. Ray Robinson Fight Week Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Saturday, Feb. 17, Live on SHOWTIME from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Chris Farina/Mayweather Promotions
 
LAS VEGAS (February 14, 2018) – Two-division world champion Danny Garcia and former world champion Brandon Rios hosted a media workout in Las Vegas on Wednesday ahead of WBC Welterweight World Title Eliminator this Saturday, February 14 live on SHOWTIME from Mandalay Bay Events Center, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
In the co-main event, undefeated WBC Super Middleweight World Champion David Benavidez and top-rated contender Ronald Gavril meet in a rematch of their thrilling September 2017 bout in which Benavidez won the vacant title by split decision.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXINGtelecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with welterweight contenders Yordenis Ugas and Ray Robinson facing offin an IBF 147-pound title eliminator.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available at AXS.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say from House of Blues at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas on Wednesday:
DANNY GARCIA
“I’m just hungry for this fight. At the end of the day I have the passion for boxing, and I love the competition. That’s what motivates me and that’s what has motivated me to get back in there and get back on top. It all starts on Saturday night.
“I can’t worry about what [Brandon] is doing. At the end of the day I know he trained his heart out for this fight and this is an opportunity of a lifetime for him. This is a big fight for me. I have to go in there and show that I’m one of the best fighters in the world. I just have to go in there and be Danny Garcia.
“It’s great to be back here in Vegas. This is a big-fight atmosphere and it just motivates me. I feel good and I can’t wait to go in there and fight.
“I’m going to do a little bit of everything, it just depends how I feel. I’m gonna bang, I’m gonna box. I’m going to back him up. I’m going to do everything.
“I try to knock everyone out in the first round. I’ll go and get that check. Twelve rounds or less. I’d like to get it done in under eight or six. But if not I’ll go 12 rounds. I have a great team and I’ve been training hard.
“I don’t blame Keith Thurman for not wanting to fight me again. I wouldn’t want to fight me two times in row. My journey and my superstardom start again on Saturday night. My job then is to show the work and that I’m still one of the superstars of this sport.
“I’m 29 years old and in the prime of my career. It starts now. I’m ready to get back on track.
“I represent Philly wherever I go. I represent all Latinos all around the world. When you’re a world champion boxer you represent everyone around the world.
“He likes to bang…let’s do it. I feel like I’m the stronger man and there’s no need to back up. If that’s what it takes to get the job done.”
BRANDON RIOS
“I’m ready. I’ve been training really hard and I’m focused and dedicated to the boxing game. In the past I was immature and just being a kid and being a dork and just going with heart and balls – that’s what I was doing it with. But now I want to get back to the top and I know what it takes to get there.
“I don’t care what the critics say because at the end of the day that’s what they are, just critics. It’s all good. I can tell you right now I’m in shape. I’m on weight already.
“Everyone knows the way I fight. Going all out is my style. I’ll walk through brick walls to get the victory. Everyone will see on Saturday night the new and improved Bam Bam.
“Think about why I looked like [crap] after my last fight. I’ve been through wars after wars and wars in my previous fights, and that takes a toll on your body. It happens. And I realized it and I took a step back and I wasn’t doing it right with dieting and training. I was doing it with heart and balls.
“Now I feel rejuvenated and fresh. So you will see the new and improved Brandon. I feel young and not war-shot, or whatever you guys want to call it. I want to go out there and prove everyone wrong. I’m going to prove every one of you wrong. There’s going to be a smile on my face when I win this fight and I will put up my middle finger to all of you.
“Danny’s a strong fighter and he has power in both hands. He’s a great counter-puncher. One thing I like is he doesn’t move or run, he likes to bang it out, and that suits my style better. But if he does run, we’ll be ready for that too. I sparred with young guys, so I’m ready.
“Thanks to all of you guys for calling me out, and calling me a cherry, or whatever. I love it. It’s all good. That’s the chip on my shoulder I got. I’m not a cherry, I might be a wild berry, but I’m not a cherry.”
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“The preparation we had for this camp was amazing. Three months in training camp, we made a lot of changes for this fight and we’re ready to go in there and take care of business.
“Winning the title changed my confidence but it changed my work too. Now I know everybody is gunning for my title and I don’t want to let it go. All the work and sacrifice it took for me to get this – I’m not going to let it go.
“I feel very strong. The weight is good. I feel amazing and you guys are going to see it comeSaturday.
“I don’t think Gavril can do any better than he did in the last fight. He’s a one trick pony and he doesn’t have many tricks left, he’s getting old. We’ve been working on a lot of different styles for this fight and I feel more than ready.
“I’m very motivated. I stayed very dedicated to this training camp. I’m ready to go in there and play no games. I’m going to do what I say and I’m going to knock Gavril out.
“I feel I could have done better in the first fight. Having everybody tell me Gavril should have won and him talking a lot of smack, it’s the motivation and drive that I needed to train the way I did in this camp.
“The sickness during the first fight took a lot out of me but my mentality is that I’m a warrior and I’m always going to push through it no matter what. This time, we didn’t have any injuries or sickness so I can’t wait to put on a show on Saturday.
“This is the first time I’ve really had a chip on my shoulder. All the hard work it took for me to get this belt, and people say it was just given to me? No way, I’m going to go in there and show why I’m the youngest champion in the super middleweight division.
“I want to become the best in the division. I want to earn every victory and fight the best. I would love to fight the World Boxing Super Series winner. I’ll be ready for anybody. I worked so hard to get this, nobody can take it from me.
“I’m thinking it will be a knockout around Round 5. It’s going to be a combination of the body and chin. It’s not really looking for the knockout, it’s just setting it up. I’m not going in just throwing haymakers, but I’ll set it up and if it comes, it will come in spectacular fashion.”
RONALD GAVRIL
“I trained a little bit different this time. I had way more time than the first fight to prepare. Last time was four weeks, this time I had a full 10 weeks. I have done a lot of rounds of sparring and a lot of work related to this fight.
“I learn after every fight. From the first fight against Benavidez, I learned even more because it was a tough, tight fight.
“His people tried to make him a superstar before he fought me. I don’t know what people said after the first fight, but they should wait until after the rematch. I’m the stronger fighter.
“The difference in this fight is going to be who boxes smarter. I feel I’m the smarter fighter because if I need to box, I box; if I need to put pressure, I put pressure. I can adapt.
“I think this is going to be the fight of the year. It’s going to be special. The fans should all come see this fight because it’s going to be amazing with two warriors.
“I’m not looking for a knockout. I’m looking to win every round. But I also don’t want to leave it in the judges’ hands like last time, so we’ll see what happens Saturday.
“I’m ready to win. It would be a dream come true. This is why I came here to America from Romania.”
YORDENIS UGAS
“We are both good fighters. But I am ready to put on the fight of the night for the fans and I will be victorious.
“I’m more than ready to get back in the ring. I know what’s at stake. This is a title eliminator and it is the biggest fight of my career. I’m ready to get even better and show the world that I’m ready to be at that top tier of boxing.
“Because of the intensity of this fight, I think it has the potential to be the fight of the night. This is going to shine over all the other fights.”
RAY ROBINSON
“Training camp was perfect. My team did everything to prepare me for this fight. I dotted every ‘I’ and crossed every ‘T’ for this fight. This was one of the best camps I’ve had and I’m excited to get in the ring on Saturday.
“Carrying Sugar Ray’s name is obviously a pleasure. Growing up, I had a lot of pressure on myself with my name being Ray Robinson. Sometimes I think I even lost fights because I put too much pressure on myself having that name. So now, I make sure I don’t put too much pressure on myself.
“This is the type of fight that I roll out of bed for. You get tired of fighting regular guys. I’m an old school fighter – I love fighting guys that look good on paper and nobody knows who’s going to win and it’s up to his camp and my camp. I haven’t been this excited for a fight in a long time.
“I expect hell. That’s how I’ve been preparing. If it’s anything less than that, he’ll be sorry. That’s how I’ve been training – like we’re fighting for a world title. I’m going to bring all the hardship I’ve had in my life into this fight on Saturday night.
“I’m an old school fighter. I’ll fight people in their grandma’s back yard if I have to. It doesn’t matter who I’m fighting. I’ll just do it Kimbo Slice-style. Once we conquer Saturday, we are supposed to fight Errol Spence and even if that doesn’t happen, we’re looking for a world title. Errol Spence, (Keith) Thurman, I’m ready to rock.
“Every time we put the gloves on, we want to do something special. Especially with this fight being on SHOWTIME, we just made sure we prepared the right way. But it doesn’t matter if it’s on TV or not, we still have to put on a good fight.
“Each fight that I have is a stepping stone in my career. This is no different just because it’s in Vegas. I’m not going to put too much pressure on myself and blow this up and make it bigger than what it needs to me. Vegas, the crowds, the lights – that’s all cool and dandy but at the end of the day I still have to do my job.”
# # #
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports  and www.premierboxingchampions.com,follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, and @MandalayBay or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/ShoBoxingwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionsand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. Premier Boxing Champions is presented by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Victor Ortiz vs. Devon Alexander & Caleb Plant vs. Rogelio Medina El Paso Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Ortiz vs. Alexander & Plant vs. Medina Featured in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Action Saturday, February 17 Live from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ruben Ramirez
 
EL PASO, TX. (February 14, 2018) – Former welterweight world champions Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander showed off their skills at a media workout in El Paso Wednesday, as they prepare for their Saturday, February 17 showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes action from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas.
Also in attendance at Wednesday’s workout were undefeated contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and Rogelio “Porky” Medina, who battle in a super middleweight world title eliminator. Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas battling Jorge Rojas.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
 
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the Wolves Den Boxing Gym:
VICTOR ORTIZ
“I had a great training camp. I just made sure to listen to my coach every day and grind every day with my team. You really have to grind when people say this is your ‘last chance,’ because I’m not ready for that.
“Every fight shows a lot. Every time I step into the ring it’s a new challenge. I haven’t had any shortcuts throughout my career. I’ve never treated a fight like an easy fight.
“Life tends to take you certain places and right now I’m where I’m supposed to be. I’m 31-years-old and I believe I’m going to be able to accomplish all my goals in this sport.
“Devon Alexander is a very fast boxer who was a champion for a reason. We’ve prepared for him in each and every way possible. We’ve worked hard to be in the best condition possible. I won’t step out of the ring without that victory.
“I’ve done what I have to do to prepare for Devon Alexander. I have speed and power and that’s a scary combination for any welterweight.
“I’m thankful for the support of El Paso and I’m proud to be fighting in the main event on Saturday. We’re here to perform for everybody and have a great time.”
DEVON ALEXANDER
“I feel great right now. It’s been a tremendous training camp and I’m ready to go. I’m happy to be in El Paso to do something I love to do. Boxing is what I was born to do and I’m just ready for Saturday.
“Victor Ortiz is a good fighter. We’ve known each other for a long time. We used to fight in a lot of the same amateur tournaments. We go back a long way but this is business. We’re not friends in the ring. We’re not playing games.
“This fight is very important to me. This can catapult me back to title contention. If this doesn’t go my way, it’s very bad for my career. If I pull out the win, it could lead to tremendous opportunities for me. This is a do-or-die fight.
“I’ve added more power in this camp. But we’ve pretty much kept it typical with that emphasis on really looking good on fight night. It’s just been an all-around good camp. Victor Ortiz can’t bring something that we haven’t seen before.”
CALEB PLANT
“I’m ready for this fight. A lot of boxers say they had their best camp heading into a big fight, but I truly have never had a camp this good. From sparring to conditioning, mentally and spiritually, I’m on point.
“Medina is a tough competitor. He puts it all on the line and he doesn’t quit. We’ve had problems in the past getting people to quit, but I feel we’ve figured out how to take me to that next level and get these guys out of there.
“This is a great USA vs. Mexico showdown. I’m coming to put on a show for all the fans here and watching on television.
“Everyone has a plan until they miss their first 40 punches. We both have plans, but all that matters is if you can translate that into the ring. Stylistically, I don’t think he’s fought anyone like me. It’s exciting because everyone knows what both of us are coming to do. It’s the bull versus the matador.”
ROGELIO MEDINA
“The fact that I’ve been sparring with David Benavidez in camp and have Alex Ariza around has me feeling very confident. I’m in great shape and will be ready for a great performance on fight night.
“I know that Plant likes to run and stay on the outside. Once he feels my power, I know he’s going to run even more. I’ve been making sure I’m in proper condition to chase him, cut the ring off and apply pressure.
“Everyone knows I like to fight coming forward. I’m fully confident in my abilities to get this win and earn another shot at the world title.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @FOXTV, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Action-Packed Deontay Wilder vs. Luis Ortiz Undercard Features Top Contenders, Former Heavyweight Champion, Prospect Showdowns & Rising Future Stars Saturday, March 3 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn

 
Middleweight Contender Sergey Derevyanchenko Makes Barclays Center Debut;  2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell in a Super Lightweight Attraction;  Patrick Day vs. Kyrone Davis – 10 Rounds Super Welterweights
 
Plus! Former Heavyweight World Champion Charles Martin, Middleweight Willie Monroe & Rising Local Prospect Richardson Hitchins All Enter the Ring!
 
BROOKLYN (February 14, 2018) – The heavyweight world title showdown between Deontay Wilder and Luis Ortiz will feature a stacked undercard of exciting attractions that includes top contenders, a former heavyweight champion, exciting prospects and more all entering the ring on Saturday, March 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Action inside the arena includes top middleweight contender Sergey Derevyanchenko facing Dashon Johnson in an eight-round fight, 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell in a six-round super lightweight showdown, and a 10-round matchup between super welterweight prospects Patrick Day and Kyrone Davis.
A 2008 Ukrainian Olympian now fighting out of Brooklyn, Derevyanchenko (11-0, 9 KOs) earned his top contender status in the IBF by stopping Tureano Johnson in the 12th round of their August 2017 showdown and will face California’s Johnson (22-22-3, 7 KOs) as he awaits his title shot.
One of featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr.’s younger brothers, the 21-year-old Russell (3-0, 3 KOs) represented the U.S. at the 2016 Olympic games in Rio and made it to the quarterfinal round. He turned pro in May of last year and has scored three first round stoppages as a pro.
The 25-year-old Day (14-2-1, 6 KOs) fights out of Freeport, New York and most recently won an exciting contest over then unbeaten Eric Walker last July to seize the WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight Title. He takes on another prospect looking to leap to contender status in the 23-year-old Davis (13-1, 5 KOs) from Delaware who enters this bout on a three-fight winning streak.
The card continues with former heavyweight world champion Charles Martin (25-1-1, 23 KOs) in an eight-round fight, former world title challenger Willie Monroe Jr. (21-3, 6 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight affair and a pair of local welterweight prospects fighting at Barclays Center for the fourth time as Richardson Hitchins (3-0, 1 KO) and Kenny Robles (2-1, 1 KO) compete in separate six-round attractions. Rounding out the action is unbeaten prospectShynggyskhan Tazhibay (5-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round welterweight bout.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, start at $50 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com, BarclaysCenter.com, or call 800-745-3000. Tickets for the event can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by the highly anticipated Wilder vs. Ortiz matchup and will see undefeated former 154-pound champion Jermall Charlo take on Hugo Centeno, Jr. for the interim WBC middleweight title in the co-feature. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with
top super middleweight contender Andre Dirrell battling hard-hitting Jose Uzcategui in a rematch for the IBF Interim 168-pound world title.
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For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, @BarclaysCenter, @Brooklyn_Boxing and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,
and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Hernandez Returns to the Ring This Saturday

EL PASO, TX (February 14, 2018) – Middleweight prospect, Marcos “Madman” Hernandez (11-1, 3 KOs), returns to the ring this Saturday, February 17, 2018, against Jeison Rosario (14-1, 11 KOs). The 8-round bout will take place at the Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by a 12-round duel between former welterweight world champions Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander. Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
Here is what Marcos Hernandez has to say about his upcoming fight with Rosario…
 
On his current training camp…
“This is my third training camp out here in Riverside with my trainer Henry Ramirez, who took over the lead in my corner a few fights ago. It’s been great getting the proper sparring needed to take my career to the next level. I’m feeling strong and sharp. Everything has come together, and I’ll be at my best this Saturday in El Paso.”
On facing opponent tough Jeison Rosario…
“Rosario is a very tough opponent who possesses a lot of power in both hands. He likes to go for the knockout, so I will have to be ready for everything he’s coming with. I know he’s hungry but so am I. This will be a fight for the fans, as we are both going to leave everything in the ring.”
On what a victory will do for his career…
“A win against Rosario will get me one step closer to my ultimate goal of fighting for a world title. I’ve been in tough fights since I turned pro and its prepared me for fights like the one I’m in now. I’m ready step it up and show the world I have what it takes to be an elite fighter, and a world champion.”
On fighting on another big PBC card in El Paso…
“I’m sure El Paso will have a lively crowd attending this Saturday. I know there will be a lot of Mexican’s in the house, so I must represent my people. I’m very happy to be fighting on another big PBC card. It’s a blessing to be part of the PBC family and I promise to impress those that will be watching.”

Premier Boxing Champions Presents a Bounty of Boxing With a Blockbuster Doubleheader Broadcast on Separate Networks From Two Sites Featuring Sensational Fights in The 147 & 168 Pound Divisions on Saturday, February 17

 
Action Kicks Off With Victor Ortiz vs Devon Alexander In Primetime On FOX & FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
 
The Nightcap Features a Thrilling Clash Between Former Champions Danny Garcia and Brandon Rios Plus Exciting Champion David Benavidez Battling Ronald Gavril In A Rematch in Las Vegas on SHOWTIME 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
 
LAS VEGAS (Feb. 14, 2018) – Fans can enjoy a six-fight boxing feast this Saturday as Premier Boxing Champions presents two shows on separate networks from two locations, showcasing matches in the welterweight and super middleweight divisions – two of the hottest divisions in the sport – on February 17.
The evening will kick off with former welterweight world championsVictor Ortiz (32-6-2, 25 KOs) and Devon Alexander (27-4, 14 KOs) in a true crossroads battle live in primetime in the main event on FOX and FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
Also in televised action on the show, Caleb “Sweethands” Plant (16-0, 10 KOs) will clash with Rogelio “Porky” Medina (38-8, 32 KOs) in a 12-round IBF super middleweight title elimination bout and sensational 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas (3-0, 3 KOs), a first generation Mexican-American, will take on Jorge Rojas (4-2-1, 2 KOs) in a lightweight match.
Following that will be a spectacular tripleheader live on SHOWTIME that will be headlined by former two-division champion Danny Garcia (33-1, 19 KOs) battling former world champion Brandon “Bam Bam” Rios (34-3-1, 25 KOs). In televised undercard attractions, 168-pound champion David Benavidez (19-0, 17 KOs) will defend his title against Ronald Gavril (18-2, 14 KOs) in a rematch and Yordenis Ugas (20-3, 9 KOs) takes on Ray Robinson (24-2, 12 KOs) in an IBF 147-pound title elimination bout.
“Boxing fans are in for a real treat on February 17 as six exciting bouts will unfold in two shows on two separate networks. There are no NFL games, no NBA games and no MLB games. So get ready to binge watch boxing all night,” said Tim Smith, Vice President of Communications for Haymon Boxing. “These shows include something for every boxing fans – crossroads battles, championship clashes, contenders climbing the ladder to titles and a sensational prospect embarking on a brilliant career. It should be a fun night for the fans.”
Both shows hold significance in the 147-pound and 168-pound divisions. Garcia, Alexander and Ortiz are all seeking to return to the welterweight championship ranks and Rios wants to stay in contention for his first welterweight crown. The 21-year-old Benavidez, the youngest current world champion, looks to be spectacular in the rematch with Gavril and continue on his ultimate goal of unifying the titles at 168 pounds, while Plant, Medina and Gavril are seeking to get to where he is now.

Olympians added to 2018 Telemundo opener

Promoter Tuto Zabala Jr. of All Star Boxing, Inc. announced today that Olympians Antonio Vargas (5-0-3 KO’s) of Kissimmee, Fl. and Jeyvier Cintron (2-0-1 KO) of Bayamon, Puerto Rico have been added to the undercard for the 2018 Boxeo Telemundo’s season premiere on February 23rd at the Osceola Heritage Park Events Center in Kissimmee, Florida.
 
Antonio Vargas who represented USA @ The 2016 0lympics in Rio is coming off a spectacular win over undefeated prospect Jonathan Garza last November in Kissimmee. Vargas looks to continue climbing when faces he Luis Fernando Saavedra for 6rds.
Meanwhile Jeyvier Cintron was the first and only 2x olympian boxer to have represented Puerto Rico in the amateur ranks. After suffering delays due to Hurricane Maria devastating the island of Puerto Rico, Cintron is looking to make up for the lost time by staying very busy in 2018. Cintron is scheduled for 6 rounds with an opponent to be determined.
Vargas and Cintron bouts are brought to you by Top Rank in association with All Star Boxing, Inc
The main event Jonathan Bomba Gonzalez vs Ricardo Meserito Rodriguez will be televised LIVE at 11:35pm on the Telemundo Network. Check your local listings
Tickets on sale now, Ticketmaster.com or ohpark.com

UNDEFEATED SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER MARIO “NINO DE ORO” BARRIOS STEPS UP ELITE TRAINING WITH SNAC SYSTEM

 
Photos by Brett Ostrowski – MJS Entertainment
 
SAN CARLOS, CA (February 13, 2018) – Undefeated 140-pound contender, Mario “Nino de Oro” Barrios (20-0, 12 KOs) takes his strength and conditioning to an elite level with Victor Conte’s SNAC System.  Barrios will face Eudy Bernardo in a 10-round bout on SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME Saturday, March 10 from Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio.
 
In preparation for his homecoming fight, Barrios has begun training with SNAC track coach and living legend Remi Korchemny, one of the world’s best elite performance trainers. Barrios is entering his third week with Korchemny, who’s worked with Andre WardDemetrius Andrade and Nonito Donaire to name a few.  Korchemny sees significant improvement with Barrios’ speed and explosiveness.
“Barrios is a world class athlete with a tremendous work ethic and I see him getting stronger as we continue our rigorous training methods.” said Victor Conte, CEO/Founder of SNAC Nutrition supplements. “Barrios has really taken the next step to becoming a more explosive fighter.  Remi and Mario are working great together.”
“Remi is having me do workouts that I have never done before, and our focus is on speed and explosiveness,” said Mario Barrios. “I am grateful to Victor Conte and Remi Korchemny for providing such top-level training prior to my big fight on Showtime.”
“Remi Korchemny is a world-renowned trainer who helps elite boxers develop more power in their punches.” Victor Conte concluded. “This is next level preparation. Only a select few are able to work with Remi and Barrios is definitely worthy.”
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