Category Archives: boxing

boxing

EL MATADOR MANAGEMENT SIGNS SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT PROSPECT JOSHAFAT ORTIZ

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Queens, New York (January 11th, 2018) – El Matador Management is proud to announce the signing of super featherweight prospect Joshafat Ortiz to a management contract.
Ortiz, 22 years old of Reading, Pennsylvania is currently 2-0 with one knockout.  He began boxing at the age of 7 years old in Ponce, Puerto Rico.  He compiled a record of 42-7 as an amateur, winning the 2014 Pennsylvania Golden Gloves Championship, and making it to the semi-finals of the 2015 and 2016 Ringside Nationals.  He was also a quarter-finalist in the 2015 Olympic Trials Qualifiers.
“I feel signing with Felipe Gomez is a great move for me and my team” said Ortiz  “I’m sure that with his knowledge and experience in the game we will have a lot of success together.  I’m excited to be able to showcase my talent here at home, in Pennsylvania.  Even better, I will be fighting on Evander Holyfield’s Real Deal Boxing card.  I am looking forward to putting on a show and opening some opportunities for myself.”
“Ortiz is an exciting fighter with a lot of boxing skill” said Gomez.  “I am excited to add him to my stable of fighters.  One of the things I love about Ortiz is that he is a humble fighter and dedicated fighter.  Together with his advisor Domingo Gonzalez, we are going to work hard in building him into a champion.”
Joshafat Ortiz is scheduled to fight Friday, January 26th, 2018 at the Sugarhouse Casino in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Follow El Matador Management :
Twitter: @BoxingAdvisor
Facebook: @ElMatadorManagement
Instagram: @ElMatadorManagement
SnapChat: @ElMatadorMngmt
YouTube: @NewLegendPromotions
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

Russian Heavyweight Crusher Apti Davtaev Looking to Impress in his American Debut This Friday at  Turning Stone Resort Casino

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Undefeated heavyweight KO artist Apti Davtaev will make his long-awaited American debut this Friday night on the untelevised undercard of two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (4-0, 2 KOs) defense of her WBC and IBF titles against undefeated mandatory challenger Tori Nelson (17-0-3, 2 KOs) at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

A recent signing of Salita Promotions, Davtaev (13-0-1, 13 KOs), from Kurchaloi, Russia, will take on Philadelphia-based veteran Garrett “The Ultimate Warrior” Wilson (18-13-1, 9 KOs) in an eight-round showcase.
Standing an imposing 6 ‘5″ and already having won the WBC Slovenian title in just his tenth pro fight, Davtaev moved from his training base in Grozny to Detroit to work with well-respected Javan SugarHill Steward at the Kronk Gym.
“I loved training in Detroit with SugarHill Steward,” said Davtaev. “I feel my skills are going to a new level and I look forward to showing them off on January 12. I know Wilson is experienced and has fought some very good fighters, but I am in great shape and ready to put on a show!”
Not looking to waste any time, the 28-year-old Davtaev says he’ll be looking for “names” in the big man’s division of boxing after this fight.
“My goals are to stay active and fight the better names in the division this year,” he said. “I look forward to showing the boxing fans my skills and challenging the big names. The fans in New York can expect to see a new contender in the heavyweight division.”
Steward, nephew of the great Emanuel Steward and quickly building a strong reputation of his own, says that Davtaev has what it takes.
“Apti is a strong, coordinated, big heavyweight who will be ready to compete very soon with the other contenders in the division. I am very impressed with his ability to learn and to transfer what he’s learned into sparring. I am excited to see Apti in action January 12 for his American debut. I expect to see an exciting knockout!”
Presented by Salita Promotions, Shields vs. Nelson will serve as the headliner of a televised tripleheader on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT).
Also featured on the January 12 telecast, Uzbekistan power-puncher Shohjahon Ergashev (11-0, 11 KOs) will face fellow undefeated and top-10 ranked Sonny Fredrickson (18-0, 12 KOs) of Toledo, Ohio. In the co-feature, Jesse Hernandez (10-1, 7 KOs) will take on Ernesto Garza (9-2, 5 KOs; 1-3 WSB) in a 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are currently on sale for $75 for the first two rows of ringside, $65 for remaining ringside seats and all others priced at $49 and $37, plus any applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased in person or by calling the Turning Stone Resort Box Office at800.771.7711 or online at Ticketmaster.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Victor Ortiz vs. Devon Alexander El Paso, Texas Press Conference  Quotes & Photos

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Primetime Matchup of Former Welterweight Champions Headlines
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday,
February 17 from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas
 
Click HERE for Photos from Alan Mena/Premier Boxing Champions
 
EL PASO, TX. (January 10, 2018) – Former welterweight world champions “Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander “The Great” went face-to-face for the first time Wednesday at a press conference in El Paso, Texas to discuss their showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, Feb. 17 from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant battling Rogelio “Porky” Medina in a 12-round 168-pound world title eliminator.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $60, $40, $25 and will go on sale Friday. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
Also in attendance at Thursday’s press conference was former world champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout and women’s featherweight world champion Jennifer Han from El Paso, who will both compete in undercard attractions on Feb. 17.
Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday from the Wyndham El Paso Hotel:
VICTOR ORTIZ
“We’re warriors up here. Devon is not going to like me much come February 17 and I know I won’t like him much. This is business, because I’m here for the victory.
“I’ve been counted out many times in this sport. I’m not going to take any shortcuts in training, I’m just going to keep listening to what my coach wants me to do so I can be at my best.
“Being on this stage is very significant for me. Thankfully I have people who don’t stop believing in me. I’ve seen both sides and been in the middle. At this point, the only place I’m focused on going is up. It’s all in front of me.
“We have mutual respect for each other. He’s a tremendous fighter just like me. Everyone knows it will be two warriors stepping into the ring on February 17. We’re going to go all out. I’m going for a victory just like him.
“I’m going to keep coming forward until my hand is raised in victory. One day I will be the champion again and it starts February 17 in El Paso.”
DEVON ALEXANDER
“Both of us are very good, skillful boxers and that should make for a great matchup. Everyone knows we both come to fight and have been world champions so it’s going to be exciting on fight night.
“This is going to be an excellent fight. I’ve known Victor for a long time, but this is going to be business on February 17. I think I’m the best fighter in the world, and I have to go prove that.
“Boxing is what I love to do. This is what I was born to do. I’m so thankful to my coach, Kevin Cunningham, for sticking by me these last few years and helping get me back to this point.
“I’m excited about this fight and I know Victor is too. The fans in Texas are always fantastic and they should expect an action packed night. It’s an awesome feeling to be able to showcase my talent. This is what I’ve been working hard for.
“I’m an all-around good fighter and I think my speed and quickness will be the difference. No one can hit me when I’m at the top of my game.
“I don’t see this one going the distance. We’re both very hungry. We know that a loss puts us at the back of the line and neither of us can afford that.
“I’m really thankful to El Paso for hosting this fight. It’s going to be a great night and I’m happy to be the main event. Everyone should come out for a great show. It’s going to be lots of fire and fury. Victor and I are really coming to fight.”
AUSTIN TROUT
“I’m looking forward to fighting close to home. Many of you know I was born here in El Paso and grew up right across the road in Las Cruces, New Mexico. To be here again is surreal and it’s even more special being on a great card like this.
“This is where it all started for me. I’m going back to the roots of where I won a championship. It feels good to bring everything full circle. I’m blessed to be a part of this event.
“I’m really proud to be part of this card and this great night of boxing. I can’t wait to fight next to “The El Paso Sweetheart” Jennifer Han. I’ll be the “Las Cruces Tough Guy” on fight night and give everyone a great show.”
JENNIFER HAN
“I’m so excited to be part of this card. There is so much talent and it’s going to be an amazing show. We’re going to make El Paso extremely proud on February 17.
“I’ve been training very hard to fight my mandatory. She’s coming from Argentina to take my title so I need everyone to come out and support me on fight night.
“I’m a professional fighter and I love what I do. This is what I was born to do. I’m so excited to do this in front of my friends and my family and peers. Without the support of the El Paso community, I wouldn’t be here.
“Women’s boxing is growing and growing and I’m proud to be a part of it. Come out and support us and we won’t let you down. It’s going to be a great show.”
JOSEPH JANIK, Ortiz’s Trainer
“I know that there is a great boxing community here in El Paso. Boxing is a part of the culture here and we’re glad to be a part of it.
“One of these fighters is about to take a big step forward in their career, but it doesn’t happen without a win on February 17. We’ve been in camp training hard and Victor will be ready.
“Victor is never in a bad fight and I expect this will be another great one. We have some new things coming and Victor is going to show you something you’ve never seen before. We plan on being victorious on February 17.”
KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Alexander’s Trainer
“This is definitely a crossroads fight for both guys. We’ve known Victor since he was like nine-years-old, fighting in the same region as him. This is business, because this is a crossroads fight for both guys in their careers and their lives.
“The winner of this fight will go on to bigger and better things and the loser has to get back at the end of the line. That’s not the plan for Devon, and Victor is in the way right now. Devon is going to be well prepared and I expect it will be an action packed fight.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“It’s great to be back in El Paso with a big fight like this. It is truly a great fight town. I’m really looking forward to this card and I think the fans here are going to love it.
“Our main event is a true crossroads fight. Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander are battle-tested in one of the toughest and deepest divisions in boxing. The winner of this fight will be back on the path to a world title.
“Victor Ortiz brings an exciting, aggressive style and he always comes to fight. That’s why he’s one of the most entertaining fighters in the sport today. Devon Alexander has overcome some health issues and is back in the ring with one thing on his mind, to regain a 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, @FOX, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available atwww.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Ring 8

New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2018 

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Sunday, April 29 Induction Dinner
Kid Chocolate, James J. Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Bobby & Murray Goodman and Sam Taub head new class
NEW YORK (January 10, 2018) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) has announced its 23-member Class of 2018. The seventh annual NYSBHOF induction dinner will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 29, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
“This day is for all these inductees who worked so hard for our enjoyment,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said, “and for what they did for New York State boxing.”
Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include (Spring Valley) IBF Cruiserweight World Champion Al “Ice” Cole (35-16-3, 16 KOs), (Long Island) WBA light heavyweight Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle (36-6-2, 22 KOs), (Central Islip) IBF Junior Welterweight World Champion Jake Rodriguez (28-8-2, 8 KOs), (Brooklyn) world lightweight title challenger Terrence Alli (52-15-2, 21 KOs), and (Buffalo) undefeated world-class heavyweight “Baby” Joe Mesi (36-0, 29 KOs).
Posthumous participants being inducted are NBA & NYSAC World Featherweight Champion (Manhattan) Kid “Cuban Bon Bon” Chocolate (136-10-6, 51 KOs), (New York City) 20th century heavyweight James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett (11-4-3, 5 KOs), (Williamsburg) World Lightweight Champion Jack “The Napoleon of The Prize Ring” McAuliffe, (Kingston) WBC Super Lightweight Champion Billy Costello (40-2, 23 KOs), (Beacon) NYSAC Light Heavyweight World Champion Melio Bettina (83-14-3, 36 KOs), (Brooklyn/Yonkers) world-class middleweight Ralph “Tiger” Jones (52-32-5, 13 KOs) and (Port Washington) heavyweight contender Charley “The Bayonne Bomber” Norkus (33-19, 19 KOs).
Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are (Troy) Pulitzer Prize-winning sportswriter Dave Anderson, (Brooklyn) trainer/advisor Pete Brodsky, (Rockaway) boxing historian/editor Herb Goldman, (Bronx) matchmaker Bobby Goodman, (Ardsley) NYSAC chairperson/judge Melvina Lathan, and (Brooklyn) NYSAC Chairperson/matchmaker/promoter Ron Scott Stevens.
Posthumous non-participant inductees are (Brooklyn) ring announcer Johnnie Addie, (Brooklyn) matchmaker Johnny Bos, (Bronx) boxing publicist Murray Goodman, (New York City) boxing writer/historian Bert Randolph Sugar and (Lower East Side) radio & television announcer/journalist Sam Taub.
Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.
The 2017 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Jack Hirsch, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Ron McNair, and Neil Terens.
All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.
 
NYSBHOF
 
CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.
CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.
 
CLASS OF 2014: Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.
CLASS OF 2015: Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.
CLASS OF 2016: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.
CLASS OF 2017: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.
Tickets are priced at $150.00 per adult and $70.00 for children (under 16), and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF/Ring 8 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 on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.
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 on line 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 is 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.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Rances Barthelemy & Kiryl Relikh Look Forward to Big 2018 Beginning Saturday, February 10 When They Meet in140-Pound World Championship Rematch Live on SHOWTIME

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From the Alamodome in San Antonio & Presented by

Premier Boxing Champions

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Their First Fight

Photo Credit: Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

SAN ANTONIO (Jan. 10, 2018) – Unbeaten two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy and former title challenger Kiryl Relikh will both look to kick off their new year with a world title victory when they meet in a rematch for a vacant 140-pound title Saturday, Feb. 10 live on SHOWTIME from the Alamodome in San Antonio in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10:15 p.m. ET/PT and will be headlined by three-division world champion Mikey Garcia (37-0, 30 KOs) taking on unbeaten 140-pound world champion Sergey Lipinets (13-0, 10 KOs).

 

 

 

“Obviously the number one goal for 2018 is to bring home that belt on February 10,” said Barthelemy (26-0, 13 KOs). “Then I want to unify with all the other champions. My New Year’s resolution is to surround myself with good people and win multiple world titles.”

 

 

 

“First I have to win this fight in February,” said Relikh (21-2, 19 KOs). “But then I have hopes of a great year defending my belt against the mandatory and eventually a unification fight. This will be the year I reach a new level in this sport.”

 

 

 

Barthelemy and Relikh will fight for the WBA’s vacant Super Lightweight World Title after their title eliminator bout in May ended in a debatable decision for Barthelemy. This time the fighters will look to leave no doubt with the full title on the line.

 

 

 

“This is my second time fighting for a world title and it will be a second lesson for me,” said Relikh. “This is my time to become champion. I need to do much more during this fight.

 

 

 

“I have to be aggressive right from the start. I’m sure that I need a knockout to get the victory. He can try to run, but he won’t be able to hide from me.”

 

 

 

“Winning this title would be a dream come true for me,” said Barthelemy. “I’d be the first Cuban fighter in history to win a title in three different divisions. The last fight was very close and deserving of a rematch.

 

 

 

“I just need to stick to my game plan and show everyone that I’m the best 140-pound fighter in the world. The key will be to stay disciplined and land hard shots all night.”

 

 

 

Both fighters have sacrificed in training camp on the road to what they hope will be a celebratory moment on February 10, training hard through the holiday season to stay on target for fight night.

 

 

 

“My whole team has done a fantastic job so far in camp,” said Barthelemy. “Ismael Salas and Joel Casamayor are giving me great tips and keeping me focused on my goal. One new thing I’ve added this camp is Bob Santos for nutrition and strength and conditioning. It’s made a big difference over the holidays where I usually eat too much. He’s kept me on a strict diet and training has never been better.”

 

 

 

“These last few weeks through the holidays have been the hardest of my camp, so there was no room for distractions,” said Relikh. “I spent New Year’s with my family and then I was right back into training camp in the morning.”

 

 

 

With two belts in the 140-pound division on the line in the same night, the winner between Barthelemy and Relikh will be in a great position to begin a path toward unification after February 10.

 

 

 

“I will have my eye on the main event for sure,” said Relikh. “I’m focused on Barthelemy now, but I want to unify and if that means fighting Garcia or Lipinets, I will be ready.”

 

 

 

“Garcia vs. Lipinets is going to be a great fight and I definitely want the winner,” said Barthelemy. “Although Lipinets is the underdog going into this fight, I think he’s going to give Garcia all he can handle. But I still think Garcia will come out on top, setting up war between us in a unification bout.”

 

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,

 

 

follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @Ringstar @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook

 

at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.Facebook.com/RingstarSports. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Errol Spence Jr. Dallas Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Welterweight World Champion Makes First Defense Against Lamont Peterson Live on SHOWTIME Saturday, January 20From Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Presented by 
Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Byron Craig/SHOWTIME
 
DALLAS (January 10, 2018) – Unbeaten welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr.hosted a media workout in his hometown of Dallas on Tuesday ahead of his matchup against former two-division world champion Lamont Peterson Saturday, January 20live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features lightweight world champion Robert Easter battling former champion Javier Fortuna in the co-main event.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are priced starting at $50, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center or by calling 800-745-3000. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what Spence and his trainer, Derrick James, had to say Tuesday from R&R Boxing Club in Dallas:
ERROL SPENCE JR.
“Everyone who has seen me fight before knows it won’t be a boring fight. Even if it’s one-sided, it’s always going to be action packed. January 20 is going to be a tremendous fight and I’m going to put on a great performance. I’m planning to dominate.
“Defending my title in Brooklyn will be special. I have family in New York too so it means a lot that I’ll be able to defend at Barclays Center. New York is a boxing city so they really appreciate champions and know the sport.
“I’m excited to be fighting a guy like Lamont Peterson. I’m not fighting a regular no-name fighter. He’s going to bring the best out of me because he’s a true fighter. It makes the whole experience even better.
“The top spot in the sport is really up for grabs now and I’m coming for it. I don’t care who I have to face or where, I’m going to be the last man standing. That’s why we all get into this sport. I’m extremely confident in myself.
“Lamont and I both have big hearts and I think everyone will be able to see that in the ring. We’re both smart fighters so there might be some feeling out before we get going. But I expect it to be a dogfight.
“This community in Dallas is very important to me. When I was
growing up here there were no professional boxers from here that I could look to as a role model. Once you have the resources to give back, it’s important to do it. I love being in the gym and helping the really young guys and giving them something to aspire to.”
DERRICK JAMES, Spence’s Trainer
“Errol looks really good in training. He has great focus. He is very detail oriented and keyed in on being the best version of himself. The determination on his face lets me know that he wants to leave no stone unturned and make sure everything goes his way on fight night. We win the fight in the gym not in the ring.
“Errol has to keep this mentality going into this fight and beyond, and he knows that. Winning one title is not what he wants. He wants to be undisputed welterweight champion. He’s very goal oriented and I believe he’ll reach that goal. He doesn’t take no for an answer. He’s going to push himself to the limit and attain his goals.
“Lamont Peterson is very witty and intelligent in the ring. He’s a tough guy too. He brings that mental fortitude that you need to be successful. We have to be coming to this fight 100 percent and be focused the whole time. If we don’t, we may come up short.
“I have to be the best version of myself too. I try to get better and better each fight and each day in the gym. I know I have to be on top of of everything that could happen. Barry Hunter is a tough, intelligent trainer who brings a lot to the table. Lamont has a great team. It’s a pleasure and an honor to face them in the ring.”
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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,
and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

Victory Sports & Entertainment’s  Sonny “Pretty Boy” Fredrickson  Ready to Shine in ShoBox: The New GenerationDebut, This Friday at 10 p.m. ET/PT Live on SHOWTIME from Turning Stone Resort Casino

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For Immediate Release

New York, New York (January 10, 2018) — Victory Sports & Entertainment’s highly-touted Junior Welterweight fighter Sonny “Pretty Boy” Fredrickson (18-0,12 KOs) is slated to make his SHOWTIME debut on Friday, January 12 when he faces off against Shohjahon Ergashev in the telecast opener of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, Jan. 12 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.
Fredrickson will square off against the Uzbekistani Ergashev (11-0, 11 KOs) in a telecast headlined by two-time Olympian Gold Medalist Claressa Shields (4-0, 2 KO’s) as she defends her WBC and IBF Middleweight World Titles against Tori Nelson (17-0-3, 2 KO’s).
Fredrickson, the WBA’s No. 8 ranked fighter at 140 pounds, will take on power-puncher Ergashev in the former’s first fight since claiming the WBA Fedebol Super Lightweight title on Nov. 1, 2017 in Medellin, Colombia. The highly anticipated fight is part of a tripleheader event promoted by Salita Promotions. And while Ergashev is with Salita Promotions, there is no doubt who the “A-Side” of this fight is as the fast rising Fredrickson looks to solidify his position as one of the top contenders at Junior Welterweight and make himself a television regular.
“I am excited to make my ShoBox debut, and look forward to putting on a good show for the fans at Turning Stone and everyone watching on TV,  especially all my family and fans back in Toledo, Ohio” Fredrickson said. “I know Ergashev is tough and he will be coming to fight, but I’ve trained very hard. I had a great camp and I am looking to make a statement. I’m very appreciative of SHOWTIME for this platform.”  I had a number of television opportunities fall through because fighters pulled out so I’m happy my time has finally come. Hopefully, Ergashev doesn’t get hurt before Friday, but once the fight starts I can’t promise anything.”
Rick Torres, President of Victory Sports, feels that this fight will give Fredrickson exposure to a wider audience that may not be familiar with him.
“We feel Sonny is one of the best kept secrets in all of boxing and we’re excited that the rest of the world will get to see what we already know – that Sonny Fredrickson is the future of the 140-pound division,” Torres said. “Sonny has not gotten the TV exposure of other fighters, but we know that, given the chance, he will not disappoint. We are very grateful to SHOWTIME and Gordon Hall for making this happen and for the support of Sonny’s promoter Roc Nation Sports.”
Mike Leanardi, COO of Victory Sports, sees an opportunity for Fredrickson to follow in the footsteps of another Victory Sports fighter that started on ShoBox.
“ShoBox is the premier platform today for showcasing and developing young fighters,”Leanardi said. “We’ve seen the impact ShoBox can have firsthand with [former Super Middleweight and Former Light Heavyweight World Champion] Badou Jack. We’re confident that Sonny can achieve great success as well.”
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

Thrill-a-Minute Kazakh Slugger Bakhtiyar Eyubov Returns to Action This Friday at the Turning Stone Resort Casino

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Kazakhstan-born junior welterweight contender Bakhtiyar Eyubov is back with a vengeance and ready to bring his flashy and fan-friendly style to New York boxing fans.

One of the world’s most exciting fighters at 140 and 147 pounds, the entertaining Eyubov will return to action this Friday, January 12, on the untelevised undercard of two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (4-0, 2 KOs) defense of her WBC and IBF titles against undefeated mandatory challenger Tori Nelson (17-0-3, 2 KOs) at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.
Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will face Lynchburg, Virginia’s Maurice Chalmers (14-13-1, 8 KOs) in a six-round junior welterweight showdown.
“Training for January 12 has been excellent,” said Eyubov. “I feel in great condition. My opponent has some solid wins against undefeated fighters and brings lots of experience into the ring, but I will be ready for everything.”
The 31-year-old slugger says with all his injury woes behind him, he is looking forward to a big 2018.
“My goal is to make a big jump in my career this year. I want to be set on my path to the title. My style is to please the fans and I want to show them exciting knockouts against the best contenders. I would like to stay active and fight four or five times. Give me the so called “killers” in the division. Line them up!”
Presented by Salita Promotions, Shields vs. Nelson will serve as the headliner of a televised tripleheader on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT).
Also featured on the January 12 telecast, Uzbekistan power-puncher Shohjahon Ergashev (11-0, 11 KOs) will face fellow undefeated and top-10 ranked Sonny Fredrickson (18-0, 12 KOs) of Toledo, Ohio. In the co-feature, Jesse Hernandez (10-1, 7 KOs) will take on Ernesto Garza (9-2, 5 KOs; 1-3 WSB) in a 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are currently on sale for $75 for the first two rows of ringside, $65 for remaining ringside seats and all others priced at $49 and $37, plus any applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased in person or by calling the Turning Stone Resort Box Office at 800.771.7711 or online at Ticketmaster.
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About Turning Stone Resort Casino
Host of the January 12 event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is an award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier venue for fight-of-the-year level boxing. The January event will mark Turning Stone’s 24th nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a leading destination for nationally-televised combat sports. Turning Stone features world-class amenities including four hotels, more than 20 signature restaurants and dining options, two spas, an all-new 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, a cabaret-style Showroom, a 5,000-seat arena, five golf courses, several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues with live entertainment every weekend.

Professional media requesting credentials for must contact Kelly Abdo, Turning Stone Resort Casino Public Relations Manager at kelly.abdo@turningstone.com.
boxing

SUGAR PROMOTIONS “NEW BLOOD”CARD IN MEXICO, SET FOR FEB 2ND

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AGUASCALIENTES, MX (January 9, 2018) – Damien Vazquez’ Sugar Promotions, will promote its card titled “New Blood”, featuring Issac “Canelito” Avelar (13-0, 8 KOs), vs. Alejandro Frias (6-2-1, 3 KOs), fighting for the WBC FECOMBOX Featherweight title in a 10-round main-event.  The bout will take place at the Palenque de la Feria in Aguascalientes, Mexico on February 2, 2018.
Issac “Canelito” Avelar, who is managed by Prince Ranch Boxing, is looking to make a statement in his hometown after having his last fight delayed due to a minor hand injury.
“I am ready to show my hometown fans why I will be fighting the best fighters in the world,” said Issac Avelar. “I was supposed to fight last December, but it was delayed, because of a small hand injury. I took that time to improve as a fighter and I am 100% healthy.  Everyone will see the best version of Canelito on February 2nd“
“Canelito is a big star in Aguascalientes, Mexico where he was born and raised,” Oscar Vazquez, president of Sugar Promotions stated. “We are excited to put on a show with great local talent.  Canelito is a homegrown hero from Aguascalientes, Mexico and it is exciting to promote such a massive event.  Everyone in town will be here.”
“NEW BLOOD” also features undefeated bantamweight Damien “Sugar” Vazquez (12-0, 6 KOs) vs. TBA, unbeaten super-featherweight Edwing Davila (16-0, 9 KOs), vs. Octavio Guardado, Lightweight Donovan Estrella (10-0, 4 KOs) vs. Antonio Camacho, Mayran Reyes vs. Naomi Arellano, Christina Mora vs. TBA and light heavyweight Kye Brooks (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Ivan Sanchez.  Damian Vasquez has his sights set on fighting McJoe Arroyo(17-2, 8 KOs) before the year is over.
“February 2nd is looking to be a great show and I’m thrilled to work with Sugar Promotions,” said Greg Hannely, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “This will be one of the best cards ever put on in Aguascalientes, Mexico.  All my fighters are coming to win and win impressively.”
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Danny Garcia vs. Brandon Rios & David Benavidez vs. Ronald Gavril Los Angeles Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Garcia vs. Rios & Benavidez vs. Gavril 2 Takes Place Saturday, February 17 live on SHOWTIME from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Chris Farina/Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Erick Ramirez/
Premier Boxing Champions
 
LOS ANGELES (January 9, 2018) – Two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia and former world champion Brandon “Bam Bam” Rios went face-to-face for the first time Tuesday at a press conference in Los Angeles to announce their main event showdown taking placeSaturday, Feb. 17 live on SHOWTIME from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Also in attendance Tuesday were WBC Super Middleweight World Champion David Benavidez and top contender Ronald Gavril, who meet in a rematch of their exciting world title fight from September in the co-feature of the telecast.
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 Tuesday from the Conga Room at L.A. Live:
DANNY GARCIA
“I feel really good mentally and physically right now. My body is rested and ready to have a great 2018 starting February 17.
“You have to be focused to succeed in a fight like this and I think Brandon Rios knows that. I’m training hard so I hope he is too. I’m never going to take a fight off.
“This is a classic fight of a boxer puncher versus a brawler. I’m going to be prepared for everything and start 2018 off right. I have to be the fighter I’ve always been.
“I’m healthy and strong and ready to fight. I’m putting the loss to Keith Thurman behind me and moving forward. I have to focus on being Danny Garcia on February 17. I can’t press and try to do too much, I just have to get the win.
“We were both champions at the same time at 140-pounds and we didn’t get a chance to fight then, but it’s all about timing in boxing. Things tend to work out and now we’re ready to go head-to-head.
“I never back down and I know that Brandon Rios sees that in me. I always come to fight. It’s going to be a great matchup with our styles and our determination.
“I like watching the last three fights of my opponent. I think it gives me a good indication of what he’s going to look like on fight night. I’ve been watching tape of my last fight too so we can get a great game plan together.
“I felt like I fought a good fight against Thurman. He didn’t really engage. I thought after the fourth round he was basically shadow boxing. I don’t blame him because you have to be dumb to stand in front of me. We’ll make some adjustments and add to what I already do well.
“I haven’t been offered the Shawn Porter fight but I think that would be a great fight. He likes to come forward and I’m a great boxer and counter-puncher. I think the fans would love it, but Shawn Porter should be careful what he’s wishing for.”
BRANDON RIOS
“Everybody knows my style. I’m not here to dance, I’m coming to fight. I’m going in there with my heart out to show the world that I’m still one of the best out there.
“I feel strong and I feel rejuvenated. My body needed some rest because all of my fights are wars. It took a toll on my body and now I feel as good as ever. I’m ready to show the world a different Brandon Rios.
“You have to fight the best to try to be the best. Danny Garcia has been up at the top of this sport for a long time. I’m always ready for a test.
“I used to not always take training and my weight as seriously as I should have. I was young and dumb and I made mistakes. Those mistakes are in my past and I’m in great shape right now.
“I’ve been training really hard to have a full gas tank on fight night. I could have stayed retired but I still have it in me and there is still more I can get out of this sport. I truly love boxing and I’m excited to be back in a big fight like this.
“I’m always confident when I get in the ring. Having Robert Garcia in there is having my brother with me. It’s just another voice that I’m used to and that I trust.
“Being back in the ring was a little bit nerve-wracking but I was happy to get the ring rust off. I did what I had to do and was happy to get through that experience. I’m really thankful to be in this position to fight Danny Garcia.
“I’ve been ready to fight any of the top fighters. I waited and took my time because I knew I would fight whoever would step up. I got what I wanted and now it’s time to take advantage.”
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“I have to make a statement on February 17. I’m leaving Mandalay Bay with the belt on my shoulder. I have to get the knockout and that’s what I’m looking to do.
“It’s been my dream since I was a little kid to unify titles and that’s what I’m working towards now. I want to be one of the best in the history of the weight class and I’m working very hard to accomplish that.
“I’m the youngest super middleweight world champion in history and I’m going to show Gavril why. I’m extremely motivated to look even better than last time and get the knockout.
“I grew up in the era where everybody fought everybody. There was so much energy and excitement with each fight and that’s what I’m looking to bring to fans. This is going to be a great fight that you don’t want to miss.
“I feel like I won the first fight clearly. Gavril thinks he’s going to come and knock me out now, but if he has so much confidence, he should have done that in the first fight. I’m training extremely hard right now to go in there and tear him up.
“The strategy of this fight will be a little bit different. We have some things that we’re planning. But it’s still going to be a war, because I want to be a fan friendly fighter. I’m hoping to steal the show.
“I’m the champion so I feel like I’m in a position to make some great fights in the near future. I want the winner of the World Boxing Super Series 168-pound tournament. I’m honored to be in the same column as the other champions and I can’t wait to get in the ring with them.
“I didn’t overlook Gavril the first time. I knew he was a contender and he came in tough and ready to fight. I know his style now so I’m going to go to work getting better. There were a lot of things I should have done in the first fight. I’m going to take advantage this time.”
RONALD GAVRIL
“I didn’t think he was as good as people said he was going into our first fight. He hadn’t fought any real fighters, so you saw what happened when he went up against one.
“I’m really happy to be here and be in this position for a rematch. I want to thank David Benavidez for agreeing to fight me. I thought that I won the first fight so I knew I wanted this immediately. I earned this rematch.
“I learned a lot from the first fight. I know what I have to do better this time. The strategy will be adjusted and I’ll work even harder in camp to be ready. I’m working on being the best I can mentally and physically.
“He’s a young fighter who still has a lot of things to learn. Right now he’s the champion, but he will have to be ready. This won’t be an easy fight for him. I’m going in there to hurt him and win the fight.
“I can do a lot of things better than in the first fight. I proved that I have the skills in the first match, and now I will improve to get the win. I am here for a reason. It’s not going to be an easy fight for him.
“I’m only thinking about David Benavidez right now. I’m putting everything into this rematch and getting the belt. When I win, the rest will take care of itself.”
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