Category Archives: boxing

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Premier Boxing Champions Swings Through November With Four Shows on SHOWTIME, FS1, FOX Deportes & Bounce Delivering Something for Every Boxing Fan

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Highlights Include a Heavyweight Championship Showdown;
Former Champions on the Comeback Trail; Talented
Contenders Battling for Titles and Top Rankings Plus Unbeaten
Prospects Fighting to Climb the Ladder
LAS VEGAS – (November 1, 2017) – Premier Boxing Champions swings through the month on November with a slate of four shows on three separate networks that will include entertainment for every kind of boxing fan.
“The month of November demonstrates the wide variety of matches that Premier Boxing Champions is proud to present,” said Tim Smith, Vice President of Communications for Haymon Boxing.
“You have exciting heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder defending his title; top-rated contender Sergey Lipinets battling for a world title; former champions like Shawn Porter, Anthony Dirrell, and Devon Alexander aiming to get into title fights; contenders like Julian Williams fighting for a second title shot and unbeaten prospects like Earl Newman and Miguel Cruz looking to rise up the ranks. So there is truly something for everyone.”
The month kicks off with undefeated heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder defending his title against top-ranked contender Bermane Stiverne at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on SHOWTIME on Nov. 4 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. In the co-main event former welterweight champion Shawn Porter will take on Adrian Granados, and Sergey Lipinets battles Akihiro Kondo for the 140-pound championship. Wilder took away the title from Stiverne (25-2-1, KOs) with a unanimous decision when the two met in 2015. Stiverne is the only man to go the distance against Wilder (38-0, 37 KOs).
Former 168-pound champion Anthony Dirrell (30-1-1, 24 KOs) will battle Denis Douglin (20-5, 13 KOs) in a special edition of TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS  on FS1 andBOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in his hometown of Flint, Michigan on Friday, Nov. 17 at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT. Dirrell, 32, will be fighting at home for just the third time in his career and wants to regain the title that he lost to Badou Jack in 2015. In the co-feature Domonique Dolton (19-1-1, 10 KOs) enters the ring for an eight-round welterweight fight.
The next night former 154-pound world champion Ishe Smith (29-8, 12 KOs) will take on Julian Williams (23-1-1, 15 KOs) in a 10-round super welterweight showdown from the Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas on Bounce  Saturday, Nov. 18 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Smith, who is the first Las Vegas-born boxer to win a world title, will be defending his home turf against Williams and is hoping to move into position to fight for another title since his most recent title challenge of Erislandy Lara in 2014. Williams is on the comeback trail after losing via TKO to Jermall Charlo in his first world championship match last December. The co-main event features unbeaten light heavyweight prospect Earl Newman taking on Lionell Thompson in a 10-round light heavyweight bout.
Former welterweight champion Devon Alexander (26-4, 14 KOs) will battle rugged contender Walter Castillo (26-4-1, 19 KOs) on TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS  on FS1 andBOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes from The Coliseum in St. Petersburg, Florida on Tuesday, Nov. 21 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. In the co-main event, unbeaten Miguel Cruz (16-0, 11 KOs) will take on David Grayton (15-1-1, 11 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight match.
The 30-year-old Alexander will end a two-year layoff due to health issues when he steps in against Castillo. Alexander, of St. Louis, Missouri, won the 147-pound world championship with a unanimous decision victory over Randall Bailey in 2012. He lost the title via unanimous decision against Shawn Porter the next year. Alexander, a southpaw, was a unified champion at 140-pounds and owns victories over Marcos Maidana, Lucas Matthysse and Jesus Soto Karass.  Castillo, 29, will be ending a 16-month layoff and moving up to 147 pounds for the first time to take on Alexander. Castillo lost by TKO to Sergey Lipinets in a 140-pound clash in his last fight.
boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Anthony Dirrell Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Former World Champion Takes on Denis Douglin in Main Event of
Premier Boxing Champions Event Live on FS1 & FOX Deportes
Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in
Flint, Michigan
 
Click HERE for Photos from Frank Garza
 
DETROIT (November 1, 2017) – Former super middleweight world champion Anthony Dirrell opened up his training camp to media Tuesday a thet Kronk Boxing Gym as he discussed his matchup against Denis Douglin that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions event Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint, Michigan and live on FS1 and FOX Deportes.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and A.D.D. Enterprises in association with Salita Promotions, begin at $20 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit the Dort Federal Credit Union Center box office or visit Ticketmaster.com.
The former super middleweight champion returns to fight in Flint for the third time as a pro and the first time since knocking out Dante Craig at Atwood Stadium in 2011. Dirrell was joined at Kronk by local fighters Alexey Zubov (15-1, 9 KOs)and James Gordon Smith (12-1, 7 KOs), who compete in undercard action on Friday, November 17.
Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday:
ANTHONY DIRRELL
“I feel great because this gives the people of Flint a chance to see world class boxing with one of their own.  We made the tickets cheap so people can come watch great top level boxing. When you buy a ticket the proceeds go to Dirrell’s Chance Foundation, which is something I’m really proud of. The holidays are around the corner and we are going to use these funds to bring some happiness to the kids in the area.
“This is something that I’ve been wanting to do for a long time. I’ve thought about it for a while but the task is still at hand. I still have to take care of my opponent. I’m prepared mentally and physically to go to war.
“I feel great physically. There’s still some work to be done, but if there was a fighttomorrow, I’d be ready. It’s going to be great to get back into the ring on fight night after a long layoff.
“The focus is on sticking to the game plan. You never deviate from that. It’s all about doing what my coaches are telling me to. You can give the fans a great show and stay disciplined boxing at the same time.
“I know that I’ve got all the pressure because I’m fighting at home and I’m going to use it to motivate me. I want to put on the best performance possible. I have a tough opponent who’s looking to spoil my party, but I can’t let that happen.”
ALEXEY ZUBOV
“I look forward to fighting out of my new hometown of Detroit and representing the Kronk Boxing gym.  There has been a revitalization of great boxing in this area and I am happy to be a part of it.
“I will bring a world title back to Detroit, that’s my goal and that’s why I work hard every day. I want to be like the Red Wings’ “Russian Five” and bring glory to Detroit.”
JAMES GORDON SMITH
“I feel very happy about fighting close to home in Flint.  I look forward to putting on a great show on November 17th. These are the kind of opportunities you have to take advantage of to move forward in this sport. I’m ready to show off my skills.
DMITRY SALITA, Salita Promotions
“World class boxing is coming to the Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint on November 17th. Michigan is home to some of the best boxers in our sport and I am very happy to be involved with this promotion.
“Today’s press turnout at our public workout at Anthony’s training camp base in Detroit at the legendary Kronk gym is a testament to the excitement of the local community.November 17th is going to be a special day for the areas sports fans.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, 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.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @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 FS1 & FOX Deportes was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by Sampson Boxing.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

RING RESUME: DEONTAY WILDER

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An Examination Of Wilder’s Career From Olympic Bronze-Medalist To Undefeated WBC Heavyweight Champion Written and Narrated By Steve Farhood

 

To View and Share, Click Here: http://s.sho.com/2z8cRt5

 

Deontay Wilder vs. Bermane Stiverne | Saturday, Nov. 4

Live on SHOWTIME® At 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT

 

Photo Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

WHAT: International Boxing Hall of Famer and historian Steve Farhood examines the career of WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder in advance of his world title rematch defense against mandatory challenger Bermane Stiverne on Saturday, Nov. 4live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

In the latest edition of the SHOWTIME Sports® digital series “Ring Resume,” Farhood takes an in-depth look at Wilder’s career beginning with his 2012 SHOWTIME debut knockout of then-unbeaten Kelvin Price.  The nine-fight examination includes his 2015 world title fight against his Nov. 4 opponent, Bermane Stiverne, and his sensational 2016 Knockout of the Year candidate against Artur Szpilka.

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will be available in Spanish via secondary audio programming (SAP).

boxing, women's boxing

Selina “Aztec Queen” Barrios Assembles Dynamic Team

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Photo by Team Barrios
SAN ANTONIO, TX (October 31, 2017) – After two pro fights, super-lightweight female sensation, Selina “Aztec Queen” Barrios (2-0, 1 KO), who hails from San Antonio, TX, has assembled a dynamic team to help guide her the pinnacle of women’s boxing.
Dr. Charles Campbell and his son Colin Campbell from Corpus Christi, TX, will co-manage Selina Barrios.  Colin will handle the day to day operations, while Dr. Charles will help guide her career as a boxer, and personal pursuits in her professional life.
“My son Colin and I are very excited to be working with such a talented fighter like Selina Barrios.” said Dr. Charles Campbell. “Selina has the one element in boxing that all fans want to see, and that’s punching power.  In addition, Selina has the mindset you look for in a fighter.  The fact that she’s willing to fight a standout amateur like Zarina Tsoloyeva, in only her third pro fight, says it all.”
“Selina is the type of fighter that everyone in boxing should rally behind,” Colin Campbell stated. “She’s overcome a lot of adversity to get where she’s at today, and the girl can fight.  She’s certainly more exciting then most of the male boxers we see on TV today.  Selina was born to be on the big stage, and with her fighting style, she will become a fan favorite as soon as they see her fight.”
Kerry Daigle, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, who runs Keeppunching Entertainment, will stay on has Barrios’ advisor / consultant, and aid in getting Selina in the biggest fights that women’s boxing can provide.
“Several promoters are seeking to work with Keeppunching Entertainment and Selina Barrios because she might be the most TV friendly female fighter in 20 years, with the opportunity to sell out venues, even better then male counterparts.” said Kerry Daigle.
Selina’s step dad Martin Barrios, who has been in her corner since she was a top amateur, will serve as the chief trainer.  He played a significant role in helping Selina acquire an astonishing amateur record of (80-3), in addition to her sustaining an undefeated record as a pro.
“Selina is a tremendous fighter with the punching power to change a fight with one shot.” Martin Barrios stated. “I’m not just saying that because she’s my daughter, I’ve seen her destroy folks in the gym.  I’m super happy that I was able to get Mr. Dailge to believe in Selina.  I know with his connections and Selina’s talent, we as a team, can do something special in women’s boxing.
Rick Nunez, will oblige as the assistant trainer.  Nunez, from San Antonio, TX, has worked side by side with Martin, helping Selina become one of the most dangerous fighters in women’s boxing.
“With women’s boxing on the rise, Selina now has everything set in place to become a big star in the sport,” Rick Nunez stated. “You need a solid team behind you to make it in boxing, and that’s exactly what we have now moving forward.”
Maurice “Termite” Watkins from Houston, TX, and Ben Flores, of Corpus Christi, TX, will share duties as camp coordinators to the trainers.  Watkins, who fought in the lightweight division as a professional in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, had a spectacular record of (61-5-1, 42 KOs).
Selina’s younger brother, undefeated super-lightweight contender, Mario Barrios (20-0, 12 KOs), has been in awe of his sister since she was as dominate amateur.
“Growing up, my sister was the best fighter in every tournament we entered.” said Mario Barrios. “She literally wrecked everyone in her weight class.  It wasn’t until I was a late teen that I was able to hang with her.  I love my sister and I know with the powerful team that she has behind her now, she can become a world champion.”
Ann Wolfe, who was one of the most devastating punchers in women’s boxing history, has been a big fan of Selina since her days as a dominate amateur.  Wolf has seen Selina destroy her competition while fighting in the amateurs.
“Selina Barrios is a beast,” said former world champion Ann Wolf. “I haven’t seen anything like her since my days as a professional boxer.  She definitely has the talent to become a multiple world champion.”
“I’m looking forward toward a great career, that I hope will last many years,” said Selina Barrios. “I have a great team behind me now, I know if I put in the hard work, everything will work out, and my dreams will come true.”
boxing, Ring 8

31stannual Ring 8 Holiday Event & Awards Ceremony Dec. 10 in New York

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Vasyl Lomachenko, Evander Holyfield, Michael Conlan,
Marcus Browne, Amanda Serrano among 2017 award winners
Vasyl Lomachenko (R) – 2017 Ring 8 Muhammad Ali International Fighter of the Year)
(photo courtesy of Top Rank – more pictures below)
NEW YORK (October 31, 2017) – The 31st annual Ring 8 Holiday Event and Awards Ceremony will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), December 10, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
Ring 8 has announced its 2017 award winners (see complete list below), WBO Junior Lighweight World Champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Vasyl “Hi Tech” Lomanchenko (Muhammad Ali International Fighter of the Year), Hall-of-Famer Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield (Legends Award), two-time Irish Olympian Michael Conlan (International Prospect of the Year Award), 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne (New York State Fighter of the Year), of Staten Island, and five-division world champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano, of Brooklyn by way of Puerto Rico.
“There is an incredible amount of interest for our holiday awards banquet this year” Ring 8 president Jack Hirsch said. “Vasyl Lomachenko is arguably the world’s greatest fighter, and Evander Holyfield is a living legend. They are both confirmed to attend as are future superstars Michael Conlan and Marcus Browne. There will be other high-profile honorees and boxing personalities on hand as well. It will be a treat for fans who will have the opportunity to interact with them.
“Russo’s on the Bay is a great venue; the food is fantastic. Everyone attending should come away with wonderful memories of the event. Tickets are very reasonably priced for an affair of this magnitude. We usually sell out, so I suggest that anyone planning to attend purchase their tickets as soon as possible. Our profits from the afternoon go back to the boxing fraternity, helping those less fortunate, who need assistance.”
 
2017 RING 8 Award Winners
Muhammad Ali International Fighter of the Year: Vasyl Lomachenko
Legends Award: Evander Holyfield
International Prospect of the Year: Michael Conlan
NYS Fighter of the Year: Marcus Browne
NYS Female Fighter of the Year: Amanda Serrano
Sunnyside Gardens Award:: Bobby Cassidy, Sr.
NYS Prospect of the Year: Devaun Lee
Rising Contender Award: Skender & Enver Halili
Sam Kellerman Media Award: Matt Christie
NYS Trainer of the Year: Hector Rosa
Long & Meritorious Service: Edwin Torres
NYS Official of the Year: Robert Perez
NYS Promoter of the Year: Mercedes Vasquez Simmons
Uncrowned Champion: Richard Kiley
Ringside Physician of the Year: Dr. Osric King
Good Guy Award: Joanne Doyle Hutchins
Ring 8 Member of the Year: George Newman
Community Service Award: Mike Reno
Special Guests will include Teddy Atlas, Vito Antuofermo, Iran Barkley, Tommy Gallagher and many others.
David Diamante will once again serve as the event’s Master of Ceremonies.
Tickets are $125.00 include a complete brunch with cocktail hour upon entry, followed by seating at the awards ceremony, dinner and dessert, and top-shelf open bar throughout the afternoon. There will also be a silent auction of boxing memorabilia. This event is expected to sell-out and everybody is urged to purchase tickets as soon as possible to secure favorable seating. Donations of any denomination are welcome for those unable to attend the festivities.
Program ads are available for Back Cover ($500.00), Inside Front or Back Cover ($400.00), Full Page ($200.00), Half-Page ($100.00), and Quarter-Page ($60.00). The deadline for all ads is November 26, 2017, and must be emailed (Ajhirsch5@aol) or mailed to Ring 8, P.O. Box 153, Rockaway Park, NY 11694. All checks for tickets or journal ads should be payable to Ring 8 (credit cards are acceptable).
For additional information about Ring 8 or its annual Holiday Events and Awards Ceremony, contact Ring 8 president Jack Hirsch (516.790.7592 or Ajhirsch5@aol.com) or go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information.
Russo’s On The Bay is located at 162-45 Crossbay Blvd. in Howard Beach(718.843.5055).
 Vasyl Lomachenko (photo courtesy of Top Rank)
Evander Holyfield (photo courtesy of Real Deal Sports and Entertainment)
Michael Conlan (Picture courtesy of Top Rank)
Marcus Browne (photo courtesy of Premier Boxing Champions)
Amanda Serrano (picture courtesy of DiBella Entertainment)
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, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Unbeaten Contender Ahmed Elbiali Clashes With Former World Champion Jean Pascal in 175-Pound Showdown on a Special Friday Night Edition of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS On FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes From Hialeah Park in Miami, Florida, Dec. 8

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Plus! Former 175-Pound World Champion Chad Dawson Clashes With Hard-Hitting Veteran Edwin Rodriguez
In the Co-Main Event
 
Also in Action! Austin Dulay and Raynell Williams Meet
In a Battle of Unbeaten Lightweight Prospects
MIAMI – (October 30, 2017) – Unbeaten contender Ahmed Elbiali will take on former world champion Jean Pascal in the 10-round light heavyweight main event of a special Friday night edition of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes, December 8 from Hialeah Park in Miami, Florida.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former two-time world champion Chad Dawson against hard-hitting contender Edwin Rodriguez in a 10-round bout plus a showdown between unbeaten prospects Austin Dulay (11-0, 8 KOs) and Raynell Williams (12-0, 6 KOs) in eight rounds of lightweight action.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, begin at $30 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at www.TicketForce.com or calling (877) 840-0457, and are also available at the casino cage.
“The historic Hialeah Park Racetrack & Casino is a beautiful venue for an old-school crossroads fights like Ahmed Elbiali vs. Jean Pascal and Chad Dawson vs. Edwin Rodriguez,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “In the main event, the world will be watching to see if the young contender Elbiali will have his day or if the older champion Jean Pascal still has what it takes. With Dawson vs. Rodriguez, it is ‘do or die’ time for both these guys. The winner of this fight will go on to another big opportunity. The loser will have some thinking to do. It’s going to be an outstanding night of fights from top to bottom, at one of the nicest venues for boxing in North America.”
The 27-year-old Elbiali (16-0, 13 KOs) is a powerful 175-pound contender looking to prove he stacks up with the other big punchers in the division. Born in Cairo, Egypt and now living in Miami, he will be fighting before a hometown crowd in a major step up bout against the former 175-pound champion Pascal. Elbiali is coming off a TKO victory against Christopher Brooker in his last fight on July 18 after previously stopping Jackson Junior in March.
“I’m so thankful to everyone who helped me get here and believe in my skills enough to give this opportunity,” said Elbiali. “This is my golden ticket. I’m excited, ready and blessed for this opportunity. Come December 8, it will be fireworks in Miami!”
Pascal (31-5-1, 18 KOs) was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti but now lives in Laval, Quebec, Canada, and won the light heavyweight title with a decision victory over Adrian Diaconu. He went on to make three defenses, including a victory over Chad Dawson, before losing the title to Bernard Hopkins in 2011. The 34-year-old is looking to bounce back from losing a majority decision to Eleider Alvarez in his last fight onJune 3.
“This is not only a comeback fight, but I’m ready to battle for my career on December 8,” said Pascal. “They’re trying to give this young guy a test against a former champion and he’s going to try to use me as a ladder to the next level in this sport. I have a dangerous opponent and I’m going to be ready for him. When I fought Bernard Hopkins I was the young lion, now it’s the other way around and I’m going to be ready to show him something he’s never seen before.”
The 35-year-old Dawson (34-5, 19 KOs) is a two-time light heavyweight champion who has been in the ring against some of the best boxers in the division throughout this era. He won the light heavyweight world championship with a unanimous decision victory over Tomasz Adamek in 2007 and lost the title via a technical decision to Jean Pascal in 2010. He regained the belt with a majority decision victory over Bernard Hopkins in 2012 before losing to Andre Ward later that year. Fighting out of New Haven, Connecticut, Dawson is coming off a technical knockout loss to Andrzej Fonfara in his last fight on March 4.
“I know Edwin Rodriguez very well from sparring together in the past,” said Dawson. “We’re both in a position where we really need this win, and that’s going to make this an exciting fight. I’m motivated to do it one more time, and this time, I’m doing it right. I know that he’s strong and aggressive, but I’ve been in fights like this. I’m prepared for that type of intensity level, and I’m ready to go out and enjoy myself. I think my boxing will be the difference in the fight, and that will get me back to where I’ve been in the past.”
Rodriguez (29-2, 20 KOs) has the kind one-punch knockout power that makes him a dangerous opponent against anyone in the division. Rodriguez was born in Moca, Dominican Republic and now lives in Worchester, Mass. while training out of Houston. The 32-year-old lost a unanimous decision to Andre Ward in his biggest bout to date and he most recently scored a technical knockout victory over Melvin Russell on July 18.
“Chad Dawson is a former champion and a great fighter who at one point was looked at as close to being one of the best fighters, pound-for-pound,” said Rodriguez. “He’s had had his share of losses, but he was beating Fonfara in his last fight before being caught and knocked out. It was very important for me to come back and win my last fight by knockout, but an impressive win over a guy of Chad’s caliber will revitalize my career. This is going to be a great fight and I believe I can win by knockout or decision.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, 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.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @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 FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing

Unbeaten Super-Lightweight Phenom DEVIN “THE DREAM” HANEY Training Camp Quotes and Photos

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Photos by Mario Serrano Team Haney
LAS VEGAS, NV (October 30, 2017) – As his November 4th date approaches, unbeaten super-lightweight prospect, 18-year old phenom, Devin “The Dream” Haney (17-0, 11 KOs), shares his thoughts on training camp and more, as he prepares for his fight withHamza Sempewo (14-8, 7 KOs) of Kampala, Uganda.
Haney vs. Sempewo, an 8-round bout, will take place at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis Hotel in Atlanta, GA, and serve as the co-main event to heavyweight’s, Devin “The General” Vargas (19-4, 7 KOs) of Toledo, Ohio, vs. Galen “Bad Boy” Brown (44-38-1, 25 KOs) of St. Joseph’s, Missouri.
Here is what Devin Haney, the WBC Youth World Lightweight title holder, had to say ahead of his November 4th showdown:
On his recent training camp in Las Vegas…
“I’m constantly grinding in the gym, trying to get better.  No one is working harder than me.  I’ve been working closely with “The Body Snatcher” Mike McCallum, and he’s showing me some old veteran tricks.  I’ve been sparring with all the top fighters in Las Vegas, getting that good work.  I feel strong going into this fight.  I’m in great shape.”
On having his father William Haney guiding his career…
“My dad is great and he’s always by my side every step of the way.  He comes from the music industry, where he was very successful, so he knows how to build a star.  I’m very grateful to have him in my corner.  Together we are a force in the boxing world, and I know with hard work, I’ll be the next super-star in boxing.”
On the importance of staying active…
“It’s very important to stay active in boxing, because in this sport, its all about that live action.  Fighting with no headgear and smaller gloves is a big difference as opposed to sparring.  The more fights I can get under my belt, the better I’ll be when I hit the big stage.”
On fighting in Atlanta, Georgia for the first time…
“Atlanta is a major city and I’m going to give the fans in attendance a fight they’ll remember for years to come.  Fighting in the South is a great opportunity to expand the Devin Haney Promotions brand.  I want to fight in as many big cities as possible.”
On the state of the super-lightweight division…
“The super-lightweight division is stacked with a lot of great fighters.  Terrance Crawfordsits atop the division, and to me, he’s one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.  I’m on my way up and I’m confident in my ability to become a world champion.  I’ve been in the ring with Floyd Mayweather, Shawn Porter and a lot of other great fighters, so my confidence is extremely high.  I’m gunning for everyone in the division.  I know I can get down with the best of them.”
The card titled, “Remembering Our Fallen Officers Charity Boxing Gala” is being promoted by Fight Tyme Promotions, the Atlanta Boxing Association, in conjunction with Devin Haney Promotions.  A live Pay-Per-Stream broadcast will be available exclusively on Fight Tyme Live for $5.99.
 
Tickets for “Remembering Our Fallen Officers Charity Boxing Gala” are priced at GENERAL ADMISSION $50.00 (Section D), $100 (Section C), $200 (Section B), $500 (Section A  / V.I.P) CORPORATE & V.I.P. TABLES of 10 Seats including Dinner $5,000.00, and are available at www.FightTyme.com/Atlanta.
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boxing

Victory Sports & Entertainment signs former world champion Jose Pedraza to managerial contract

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For Immediate Release

New York, N.Y. (October 30, 2017)–Victory Sports & Entertainment is pleased to announce the signing of former IBF World Junior Lightweight Champion Jose Pedraza to a multi-year managerial contract.

Pedraza of Cidra, Puerto Rico has a record of 22-1 with 12 knockouts. Pedraza says, “I am very happy to sign with Victory Sports and look forward to the next chapter of my career. They represent a number of up and coming fighters and also work with elite fighters like Badou Jack so I feel that Victory is the right team to lead me back to a world championship.”

At 28 years-old, Pedraza is a six-year professional and one of the most highly decorated amateurs to come out of Puerto Rico. An Olympian in 2008, Pedraza also won medals in numerous international competitions including silver in the 2009 World Amateur Championships in Milan and gold at the 2010 Central American and Caribbean Games. After turning pro in 2011, Pedraza won his first 19 fights before capturing the IBF Junior Lightweight Championship in only his 20th fight, capturing the belt with a 12-round unanimous decision over Andrey Klimov. After defending his belt twice, Pedraza lost his belt earlier this year in an upset to Gervonta Davis, and is now looking to rebound. “My lack of activity and struggling to make weight at 130lbs definitely affected my performance in my last fight,” says Pedraza, “but I am working hard and looking forward to coming back soon. I think the Lightweight division is where I will make my mark and am excited to get back in the ring.”

President of Victory Sports Rick Torres feels that Pedraza is ready to make a statement at Lightweight, “Jose Pedraza is bar none the best fighter in Puerto Rico and we are extremely proud to welcome him to the Victory Sports family. We feel that Jose can be a force at Lightweight. There are a number of attractive fights in the division, from Jorge Linares to Mickey Garcia, all of which would make great fights for boxing fans.”

“Jose is a tremendous fighter who, at twenty-eight, is still in his physical prime,” explained Victory Sports COO Mike Leanardi. “We are looking to get him back in the ring as soon as possible. Then, after a tune-up fight or two, there is no reason Jose won’t be ready to take on the best in the world,” Leanardi continued.

Pedraza joins Victory’s growing stable of fighters including undefeated world ranked contenders Sonny Fredrickson and Tyler McCreary.

Founded by noted sports attorney Rick Torres and boxing trainer Mike Leanardi, Victory Sports & Entertainment is an athlete management company with offices in New York and Las Vegas.
boxing

Baltimore Boxing to honor Crystal Beard and Raise Cancer awareness November 17

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Crystal Beard passed away October 28 at the age of 37. She leaves behind two children and a grandchild.
Baltimore, MD (October 30, 2017) – Jake Smith’s Baltimore Boxing Promotions is back at Michael’s Eighth AvenueFriday, November 17 for “Who’s The Next Shining Star” however this evening is about far more than what will transpire in the ring during Olympic style boxing matches.
Smith was recently contacted about helping Crystal Beard, a Baltimore area native battling advanced stages of cancer. Beard was diagnosed in August 2016 with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, which is extremely aggressive. Unfortunately, the cancer spread throughout her body. Beard went through a total six chemo treatments and had a double mastectomy in February 2017. Smith, who makes it a priority to assist individuals and organizations through his fight cards, immediately agreed to help Beard.
Sadly, Beard passed away Saturday, October 28 at the age of 37. She leaves behind a 17 year old daughter, seven year old son and three month old grandchild. Beard did not have life insurance and the father of her children lives in Arizona. Her children and grandchild will be cared for by Beard’s sister and mother.
Medical bills are still coming in and Beard’s daughter, a senior in high school, is hoping to attend college. The family will now have to juggle Crystal’s medical bills and caring for three children in addition to their regular day to day responsibilities.
On fight night, there will be a 50/50 raffle, silent auction and donate a block tickets to the family which can be resold. Smith is currently putting together a number of other plans to raise additional funds for Beard’s family.
“In all of my years as a promoter working with people and organizations, this is the most devastating,” said Smith, a fixture in Baltimore’s boxing scene for more than 30 years. “A woman that should’ve had many happy and healthy years ahead of her passed away at 37 leaving behind two children and a grandchild that face an extremely difficult situation. We will do all we can to raise as much money and awareness as possible while honoring her legacy on the 17th because nothing in life is guaranteed and every day you get to enjoy is a blessing.”
Donations can be made to Beard’s family at gofundme.com/in-memory-of-crystal-beard.
The card features eight fights, two of which are title bouts and Five-time National Champion Tyrell Boyd is scheduled to appear.
Tickets from $40 are available by going to Baltimoreboxing.com/events or calling 410-375-9175. Doors open at 6:30 and the first fight is scheduled for 8:30.
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“Collegiate Fight Night” Homecoming for two West Point Cadet Boxers Luca LoConte Botis & Jack Ward

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Saturday, Nov. 11 in Winchester, MA
(L-R) – Luca LoConte Botis, head coach Ray Barone, and Jack Ward
 
WINCHESTER, Mass. (October 29, 2017) – “Collegiate Fight Night”, presented by the National Collegiate Boxing Association (NCBA) in association with USA Boxing, on Saturday night (7 p.m. ET start), November 11, will be a homecoming for a pair of West Point Cadets boxers with close ties to the town of Winchester (MA), Luca LoConte Botis and Jack Ward.
Ten amateur bouts are on tap at Maurer Auditorium in Winchester Town Hall (on Mt. Vernon St.) as the Cadets of the United States Military Academy at West Point are matched against a New England all-star caliber team comprised of boxers from the Coast Guard Academy (New London, CT), University of Massachusetts, University of Connecticut, Trinity College and Harvard University.
West Point requires all its Cadets, male and female, to take 19 lessons of boxing and that, combined with the program’s tremendous success in competition over the years, results in its relatively high number of boxers (40) on a college boxing team. West Point voluntary head boxing coach Ray Barone is a military retiree who taught at West Point.
“Luca and Jack work hard in the gym and are leaders amongst their peers,” Coach Barone said. “They are top-of-the-line guys and we’re fortunate to have both on our team. West Point is a high-end academic school, like an Ivy League school, and we aren’t allowed to recruit boxers.
“We have another great group of boxers this year. It’s always, ‘Yes, sir; no, sir’ and they’re all very articulate. Luca and Jack, like other boxers on our team, are very respectful. Luca is a very good boxer who could very well be in the Fight of the Night. Jack came here as a football player and he’ll be in his first boxing match on November 11th.”
LoConte Botis and Ward, who has close to a 4.0 GPA, are sophomores who aspire to be Infantry officers upon graduation from West Point.
Luca attended West Point Prep School for one year before entering West Point Military Academy. A 2015 graduate of Winchester High School, he started boxing at a young age, capturing top honors in the New England Junior Olympics, and he developed his skills at Peter Welch’s Gym in South Boston, as well as with the Rivera brothers at the Somerville Boxing Club.
Because he always intended to box at West Point, Luca contacted boxing officials there when he was still in high school, and he knew the coaches and boxers before he officially got there. With 18 (11-7) amateur matches under his belt, Luca has invaluable experience in a sport he passionately views as a lifestyle, much more than a sport
“I am from Winchester and look at this show as a homecoming,” Luca remarked. “I fought there once as a freshman and now I want to show everybody at home that I’ve grown. I’m no longer a boy, I’m growing into a man, and boxing has a lot to do with that. Styles make fights and I know who I’m fighting. I plan to relax in the ring and give everybody a real show. I’m going to have a lot of fun, too, and leave with a smile on my face.
“I become a better version of myself, every day, by getting in the ring. Boxing takes its toll on the body and mind but, if I have a tough day academically or during military training, I get that anger out in the gym. Boxing is a release for me. It reminds me why I’m here. What I overcome in the ring, I can do in any other way. I plan to compete in the Golden Gloves this year and as an officer, I will lead men and women soldiers.”
Ward grew-up in Hampton, NH, but he has roots in Winchester, which he considers his second home. Jack attended Salisbury School, in Connecticut, and he was recruited as a football player. He decided not to play football at West Point and, despite having no prior experience as a boxer, he joined the West Point Boxing Team after meeting Coach Barone and some members of the squad.
“I love competing, discipline and conditioning and I’ve never been in as good shape as I am now as a boxer,” Jack explained. “Boxing adds to my overall development, mentally and physically, and the it will help me become a more effective leader: Calm under pressure, in and out of the ring.
“Because my entire mother’s side is from Winchester, my extended family lives in Winchester, which is like home for me. I’m very happy to be boxing for the first time there and I plan on having a great outing.”
Former professional world champions “Irish” Micky Ward (Lowell) – no relations to Jack Ward — and Jose Antonio “El Gallo” Rivera (Worcester) will be special guests at “Collegiate Fight Night”.
Seacoast Ticket Agency is the exclusive online (www.seacoastticket.com) and phone(1.800.382.5242) ordering ticket service for “Collegiate Fight Night”. Tickets plus ($2.50 service fee) are priced at $20.00 for general admission and limited $40.00 ringside reserved. Limited $500 VIP packages are also available and include four ringside reserved tickets, including a pre-event reception at Lucias Ristorante in Winchester (cash bar), company name recognition in the event program, post and pre-event Meet & Greet with special guest boxers at Lucias. Tickets may be available to purchase fight night at the door, however, this event is expected to sell-out in advance.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @USABoxing
Instagram: @USABoxing
Facebook: /NCBA, /USABoxing