Category Archives: boxing

boxing

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Back in action Sept. 23 vs. Francisco Lapizco

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS
PARK CITY, Kansas (August 10, 2017) – KO Night Boxing LLC and Hartman Arena hosted a private media luncheon today to announce the return of 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez for his third professional fight on Saturday, September 23, headlining “KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.
“KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Hartman Arena, Mort’s Cigar Bar and Jimmy Egg.
Wichita-native Hernandez (2-0, 2 KOs) will face the stiffest test of his young pro career, Mexican flyweight Francisco “Guerrero” Lapizco (8-5, 2 KOs), in the six-round main event.
“I’m very fortunate that my promoter, John Andersen(KO Night Boxing), has worked hard to make my third pro fight at home,” Hernandez said. “I’m very excited to be able to show boxing at its best.
“My opponent has never been stopped. Obviously, he has more professional experience than me, and I understand he likes putting pressure on his opponent. I want to be the first to stop this guy! I also want the boxing world to know I’m coming for belts. Champions should get ready for Nico Hernandez.”
In his professional debut on March 25th, Hernandez knocked out Patrick Gutierrez in the fourth round, and this past June 17th at Hartman Arena, the 21-year-old U.S. Olympian stopped previously undefeated Jose Rodriguez in the third round of the main event.
Lapizco, 22, has already defeated an unbeaten opponent, Cesar Sustaita (3-0), three years ago at Ontario, California. His last fight was this past January at home in Sinaloa, Mexico, in which Lapizco won a six-round unanimous decision over Jairo Miranda.
“This fight is a step up for Nico against a proven opponent who goes rounds,” Andersen noted. “He has already upset an undefeated fighter. It’s time for Nico to step up, as well as the city of Wichita, in terms of supporting him. This is a major event on September 23rd that will bring national attention, not only for Nico, but to Wichita.
“We have an opportunity to put Nico, all of Kansas, on the national map in boxing. We have a multi-fight deal to showcase Nico at Hartman Arena. After the September 23rd show, we’ll announce his final fight of 2017. We need people to turnout September 23rd at Hartman Arena to continue promoting Nico at home.”
(L-R) — Promoter John Andersen, 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez and his father/head trainer Lewis Hernandez
(photo courtesy of Hartman Arena)

Additional “KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Friday, Aug. 11 @ 10 a.m. CT) at the Hartman Arena box office andhttp://www.ticketmaster.com/event/06005308B32459E5 Prices are $115.00 (VIP), $75.00, $75.00, $50.00, $30.00 and $25.00.
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 7:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for KO Night Boxing, LLC.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram.
boxing, charity

Ruben Villa Receives Local Award for Community Building Efforts

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  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 10, 2017) – Ruben Villa (7-0, 4 KOs), one of boxing’s brightest, young talents in the featherweight division, recently received an award for his community building presence in his hometown of Salinas, Calif.
The Monterey County Board of Supervisors recognized Team Villa Boxing, a non-profit gym, for creating a safe space for low-income youths in East Salinas. Through grants, Team Villa Boxing offers free boxing and physical fitness lessons to select youths.
“I was really surprised that we were honored with the award because we only found out about it the day before,” Villa said. “We are obviously very happy about it, but we don’t do it for the recognition. It’s all about helping the community. There’s not much opportunity out here so we have to give the kids additional chances to succeed.”
“Ruben cares about his community and wants to be a positive role model to the local kids,” said Danny Zamora, Villa’s manager. “The gym offers a safe and productive outlet for young kids and keeps them from getting into trouble.”
For those that are unaware, Salinas has an ongoing struggle with drug related gang violence. The Villa family, in an effort to pull local kids away from a life of crime, formed the gym three years ago. When not conducting training camps in Riverside, Calif., Villa stays sharp at the gym that bears his name.
Villa received the honor as part of the “National Night Out” event hosted by the City of Salinas.
The public awareness event, which drew thousands to the Salinas Soccer Complex, aimed to strengthen community relations with law enforcement and other public safety personnel such as firefighters and first responders.
Villa marks his return to the ring on a Thompson Boxing card Friday, Sept. 22 from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif. An opponent will be announced at a later date.
Villa is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.
For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing.
boxing, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UFC

TWO WORLD TITLE FIGHTS INCLUDING AMERICA’S YOUNGEST WORLD CHAMPION GERVONTA DAVIS FACING FRANCISCO FONSECA ANNOUNCED FOR MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR SHOWTIME PPV®UNDERCARD

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Badou Jack Challenges 175-Pound Champ Nathan Cleverly & Undefeated Andrew Tabiti Takes on Two-Time World Champion Steve Cunningham In Trio Of High-Stakes Matchups Preceding
Mayweather vs. McGregor Main Event
 
Saturday, Aug. 26 Live on SHOWTIME PPV at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
From T-Mobile Arena In Las Vegas
 
LAS VEGAS (August 10, 2017) – Two world championship fights including a title defense by America’s youngest world champion are part of the trio of high stakes matchups on the Mayweather vs. McGregor SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, Aug. 26 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Mayweather Promotions.
The four-fight SHOWTIME PPV event, beginning live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, is headlined by the unprecedented super welterweight matchup between boxing’s undefeated all-time great Floyd Mayweather and UFC superstar Conor McGregor.  In the co-featured bout, undefeated rising star Gervonta “Tank” Davis will make the second defense of his IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship against undefeated challenger Francisco Fonseca as the 22-year-old looks to continue his reign as the youngest current champion from the U.S.
WBA Light Heavyweight Titlist Nathan Cleverly will defend his title against former 168-pound world champion Badou Jack “The Ripper”, who is stepping up in weight and into this world title tilt.
The pay-per-view telecast will open with undefeated rising cruiserweight contenderAndrew “The Beast” Tabiti taking ontwo-time world champion Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham in a 10-round bout for the USBA cruiserweight title.
“What a night this will be for fight fans,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Not only will they witness a first of its kind main event, but they will also see two incredible world title fights, as Mayweather Promotions’ very own current and former world champions go head-to-head in separate bouts. Gervonta Davis is nothing short of pure boxing talent with dynamite power.  Former super middleweight world champion Badou Jack is making his light heavyweight debut, and looking to take the title away from a tough and experienced Nathan Cleverly.  But first, Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti will open the pay-per-view telecast with what I expect to be a magnificent performance.  This diverse card is an epic, international affair stacked with talent.  Make sure you don’t miss the biggest event the sport has ever seen.”
“This undercard includes three meaningful matches featuring fighters we’ve seen develop over the years on SHOWTIME,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports.  “Gervonta Davis has fast-tracked himself to stardom on this network, we’ve seen Badou Jack develop from prospect to champion, and we’re now witnessing similar growth with Andrew Tabiti.  We’re excited to watch them compete in tough, competitive matchups on this global stage.”
Gervonta Davis vs. Francisco Fonseca – IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship
One of the fastest-rising young stars in the sport, Davis (18-0, 17 KOs) became the youngest reigning champion from the U.S. when he knocked out Jose Pedraza in January to capture the IBF 130-pound crown. The 22-year-old made his first title defense in style when he went to London and stopped Liam Walsh in May. Both bouts aired live on SHOWTIME.  Representing Baltimore, Davis won the 2012 National Golden Gloves championship and scored knockouts in his first eight fights after turning pro in 2013. He enters this matchup on a streak of nine-straight fights that have ended with a knockout victory.
“I’m really excited to fight as the co-main event on the biggest card in combat sports history,” said Davis. “I plan to put on a great show for everyone in attendance in Las Vegas and for those who purchase the PPV. I want to thank my team for this incredible opportunity. I’m ready for Floyd Mayweather to pass his torch to me. To my fans, I appreciate all of you. Support me and I’ll fight for you!”
Fighting out of San Ramon, Costa Rica, Fonseca (19-0-1, 13 KOs) has won 19 straight fights after turning pro with a majority draw in 2013. Fonseca quickly established himself as one of the top fighters from his country with victory after victory, including a fourth-round knockout of Luis Gonzlaez to capture a regional 130-pound belt last August. The 23-year-old will make his U.S. debut when he faces Davis and he enters this contest having won his last five bouts inside of the distance. Fonseca began his 2017 with a third round knockout of Eliecer Lanzas in March and is trained by two-time world champion Ivan Calderon.
“I am super grateful for this great opportunity,” said Fonseca. “The dream of every young boxer is to fight for the world title and this opportunity comes at the best moment of my career and in the biggest in the history of this sport. I will beat Gervonta Davis and I will shock the world that night.”
Nathan Cleverly vs. Badou Jack – WBA Light Heavyweight World Championship
A two-time world champion at light heavyweight, Cleverly (30-3, 16 KOs) bounced back from a defeat to Andrzej Fonfara in a 2015 Fight of the Year contender to defeat hometown champ Juergen Braehmer last October to pick up his WBA title. Cleverly’s previous title reign saw him take down the likes of Tony Bellew, Nadjib Mohammedi, Shawn Hawk and Tommy Karpency before dropping a contest to Sergey Kovalev. The Wales resident will make his fourth start in the U.S., having won two of his first three contests stateside.
“This is a fight I have wanted ever since Badou Jack moved to light heavyweight and I’m delighted to fight in Vegas on an event like this,” said Cleverly. “I’ve trained long and hard for this fight and I’m ready to be let off the leash. This is the biggest fight of my career so far and I’m going to do a number on Badou Jack on August 26.”
Now fighting in the 175-pound division, Jack’s final fight at 168 pounds came in a title unification on SHOWTIME in January against James DeGale.  Jack (21-1-2, 12 KOs) shook off an early knockdown to floor DeGale in the final round in a close majority draw in which both fighters retained their belts. The 2008 Olympian from Gambia won his world title in 2015 by defeating then unbeaten Anthony Dirrell and defended the belt against current champion George Groves and former champion Lucian Bute. The 33-year-old is unbeaten in his last six bouts as he seeks a world title in a second weight class.
“I’m thankful for this opportunity and I’m excited about getting another shot at a world title,” said Jack. “To be a part of this event and fighting on this card is historic. Nothing beats it. I’m excited to get back in the ring. I’m getting ready to take that belt, and win a title in my second weight class. The biggest difference between past training camps and preparing for this fight is the fact that I was training to get the weight down, now I’m training to build muscle and perfect my boxing strategy. This will be a tough fight, but I don’t see any issues getting through it. I feel confident and fans can expect a win by knockout or decision. He’s not leaving with that belt. It’s staying right here in Las Vegas.”
Andrew Tabiti vs. Steve Cunningham – 10 Round Cruiserweight Bout
Originally from Chicago but fighting out of Las Vegas, Tabiti (14-0, 12 KOs) recorded victories against previously unbeaten fighters Keith Tapia and Quantis Graves in his last two outings – both on ShoBox: The New Generation – as he works to solidify himself as a contender in the red hot cruiserweight division. The 27-year-old turned pro in 2013 after amassing a solid 32-6 amateur record and scored knockout victories in his first 10 fights. He’ll battle his most experienced opponent to date when he faces the multiple-time champion Cunningham.
“I’ve always been dedicated when it comes to training and this camp has been no different,” said Tabiti. “I know I am fighting a veteran who has a lot of experience, so I can’t slack on my conditioning and training. He’s tough and he’s only been stopped once and that was when he moved up in weight to heavyweight, so it would be a big statement for me to stop him. This fight is a test for me. Anytime you get in the ring you never really know how things will pan out, but I have a great team. To the fans, expect a victory and a great fight on August 26th because I am going to make sure I come out on top.”
Representing the great fight city of Philadelphia, Cunningham (29-8-1, 13 KOs) returned to action in March with a victory over Felipe Romero after an exciting challenge of cruiserweight champion Krzysztof Glowacki in April 2016. Twice a world champion as a cruiserweight, he defeated Krzysztof Wlodarczyk in 2006 to capture his belt before successfully defending his title against Marco Huck via a twelfth-round TKO. He became a world champion again in 2010 when he stopped Troy Ross in the fifth round. The experienced veteran also owns victories over previously unbeaten fighters Amir Mansour and Natu Visinia and scored a knockdown of Tyson Fury in a losing effort during their 2013 bout.
“This is one of the biggest cards of the decade and its mind blowing to be a part of it,” said Cunningham. “I have to top it off with a victory. Taking on a good, undefeated young prospect is a challenge in itself, but a victory will prove age is just a number. Hard work is a part of my everyday life.”
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MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR
Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in the main event of an unprecedented four-fight pay-per-view boxing event.  Mayweather vs. McGregor takes place on Saturday, August 26 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  The event is produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and promoted by Mayweather Promotions.
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports and www.t-mobilearena.com, follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @TheNotoriousMMA, @MayweatherPromo, @UFC, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions,www.Facebook.com/SHOSports andwww.Facebook.com/UFC
boxing

David Benavidez Promising Fireworks Against Ronald Gavril

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Benavidez Vying to Become Youngest Super Middleweight Champion in History onSeptember 8
Red-hot super middleweight contender David “El Bandera Roja/Red Flag” Benavidez is promising his best performance to date when he faces Ronald Gavril for the WBC Super Middleweight Championship.
The 20-year-old Benavidez (18-0, 17 KOs), ranked WBC #4, will be vying to become the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history when he faces NABF champion Gavril (18-1, 14 KOs), rated #8, on September 8.
Benavidez was originally scheduled to face former champ Anthony Dirrell until Dirrell was injured. And with top contenders Callum Smith, Avni Yildirim and Chris Eubank Jr. all competing in the WBC Diamond Tournament, Gavril is the highest available contender. The winner of the tournament will become the mandatory to the winner of Benavidez vs. Gavril.
“I’m excited,” said Benavidez. “My goal is always to knock a guy out. But even if it doesn’t come, we’ll look magnificent in the fight and I’ll win that title.”
Benavidez says opponent Gavril is capable of a number of different styles, but he’ll be ready for any of them. “I have been watching film on him. He’s more of a boxer, but he does have a brawling ability. He was a great amateur as well. He had a lot of fights, but we’re training hard. I’m working with a lot of different types of styles, boxers and brawlers, so whatever he brings on the 8th I’ll be ready.”
The culmination of a lifetime of hard work, Benavidez says it would be a huge honor for him to become the youngest 168-lb champion in history. “It would be a great honor to become the youngest super middleweight champion ever. That would be a really great accomplishment for me. I’ve been training for this my entire life.”

With four weeks already banked and five to go at Big Bear training camp, Benavidez says he’ll be in the shape of his life on September 8. “This will be my best performance ever. As long as they put top-notch guys in front me, they will always bring the best out of me.”
About Sampson Boxing
After a very successful run as a matchmaker and adviser, Sampson Lewkowicz switched over to the promotional side of professional boxing in January 2008.
Sampson Boxing has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious promotional firms, representing many of the world’s best fighters and most promising young contenders.

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America and Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, VS. and several international networks.
boxing

JILL DIAMOND TO RECEIVE RAGING BABE LUMINARY AWARD

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Diamond to be honored at Raging Babe Brunch:  Shine Bright on September 16th
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LAS VEGAS – August 8, 2017 – On September 16th, on the morning of boxing’s next mega-fight, Canelo Alvarez vs. Gennady Golovkin, boxing’s “Raging Babes” will gather at Mandalay Bay to celebrate and honor WBC Cares Chair and Journalist Jill Diamond at the Raging Babe Brunch, dubbed “Shine Bright.”  Diamond joins an exclusive group of women who have received the award – a group that includes promoters, journalists and executives who blazed the trail for other women in the boxing industry.
A WBC/NABF Official and Supervisor, Diamond has devoted her life to boxing, a passion that was ignited by her father-in-law, Clyde “The Texas Tornado” Chastain, and cultivated over years of service and volunteerism.  Diamond is the International Chair of WBC Cares, a program that assists impoverished children in 165 countries around the world.  She is also the Director of World Champions for Hope, an organization that encourages professional athletes to mentor young talent, and awards scholarships.  Earlier this year, the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame honored Diamond with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Diamond has championed women in boxing since she first walked into a boxing gym in 2005.  She originally joined the gym to raise her spirts after her husband’s passing, but it quickly became clear she’s found her calling in elevating women in and outside the ring, in a sport long-dominated by men.  After realizing she rarely heard of female boxers competing, Diamond reached out to then WBC President, Jose Suliaman, asking why there were no female boxing champions.  Diamond was surprised to receive an invitation from Suliaman to that year’s WBC Convention in Spain, and was even more surprised to learn, on her arrival, that she was named in the Convention program as a member of the Women’s Championship Committee.  In that same year, WBC’s profile began to elevate, and it sanctioned the very first Women’s Championship bout.  Other sanctioning bodies followed suit.  It was just the beginning of what’s been more than a 20 year tenure in the sport for Diamond.
“It’s a terrific honor,” said Diamond of being slated to receive the Raging Babe Luminary Award.  “It’s also a real giggle, because events like this one show how far women in boxing have come.  When I began working in boxing in 2005, there weren’t many women in the business.  In any industry, when the pie is so small, people fight for crumbs.  The fact that events like this exist, and that women are now supporting and opening doors for each other, shows how much women’s roles in boxing have evolved.”  Diamond continued, “To be honored by other women means the world to me.  It warms my heart.”
“It’s such an honor that Jill agreed to be honored at this year’s brunch,” said Raging Babe founder Michelle Rosado.  “She has dedicated her life to boxing, and specifically furthering the interests of women in boxing, and has devoted herself to service of others.  She truly thrives on her passion, and all of boxing is better for it.  She sets such a great example for women and men entering the business.  I’m very excited to honor her on September 16th.”
Proceeds from the brunch, which will be held at Mandalay Bay’s Border Grill, will benefit the Prichard Colon Foundation, which helps cover the exorbitant medical and insurance costs for the young fighter who suffered a brain injury in 2015.  For those interested in donating directly to the Prichard Colon Foundation, donations may be deposited in Scotia Bank account directed to Fundación Puerto Rico Unido por Prichard Colon, account number 92100011708.
The Raging Babe Brunch is a labor of love for Rosado, and relies solely on the support of donations and sponsor contributions.  Thank you Golden Boy Promotions, Champs Boxing Club, John Francis Agency, WAR TAPE, World Champions for Hope, Boxing Insider, Big Berns Boxing Promotions, Porter Hy-Performance Center and Red Beach Advisors for making this event possible.
For information on sponsoring or attending “Shine Bright,” please contact Michelle Rosado at michelle@ragingbabe.com.
boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Former World Champion Juan Carlos Payano Returns to Take On Alexis Santiago in Main Event Of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes

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Tuesday, August 22 from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas
 
Plus! Once Beaten Lightweights Jamel Herring and Ladarius Miller
Square-Off in Co-Main Event
 
Tickets on Sale Tomorrow!
 
LAS VEGAS (August 8, 2017) – Former world champion Juan Carlos Payano (18-1, 9 KOs) will face Alexis Santiago (21-4-1, 8 KOs) in a 10-round bantamweight matchup that headlines Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes August 22 from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas and presented by Mayweather Promotions.
Payano versus Santiago replaces the previously announced main event that featured a lightweight match between Mickey Bey and Anthony Peterson that was cancelled after Bey was injured in training.
“I am excited to be back in the ring and on the way back to the top,” said Payano. “I don’t plan to allow anything to derail me from being champion again. I’m ready to put on a great performance and get the big fights that I want. I’m looking forward to once again reigning supreme in this division. I’m never in a boring fight so you won’t want to miss it on August 22!”
“I’ve been staying steady with training camp and everything has been really smooth,” said Santiago. “After my last fight I took a few months off to let my body heal and I feel much better going into this fight. My opponent is tough and aggressive. He’s a former world champion but I feel that I have what it takes to win. This fight is happening during the biggest fight week in boxing and I couldn’t be happier. I’m just staying focused on doing what I have to do to get in the ring and get that win.”
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT as part of an exciting week of events presented by Mayweather Promotions and leading up to the Mayweather vs. McGregor showdown on Saturday.
The August 22 show will also feature a showdown between once-beaten lightweights Jamel Herring (16-1, 9 KOs) and Ladarius Miller (13-1, 4 KOs), who will meet in a 10-round match.
“I was so excited when I got the news that I got this opportunity,” said Herring. “This is a huge stage for me to be on and it is an honor. I’ve been training alongside some great guys in camp to make sure I am in top shape and I’m really looking forward to it. I’m familiar with Ladarius from when I trained in the Mayweather Boxing Club a couple years ago. I don’t underestimate him, but I’ve been in the ring with tough vets and I think I’ve got what it takes.”
“I think a lot of people have doubted me in the past, but lately I feel like I am finally getting the recognition I knew I deserved,” said Miller. “My team has been great in encouraging me to stay consistent. I had to make a lot of changes to help me evolve as a fighter physically and mentally. I feel mentally locked in right now and my last few fights have showed my hungry wont-back-down side and on August 22 the fans just better be ready to see ‘Memphis.’ I’ve seen my opponents resume and all I can say is, this is going to be a good ol’ brawl.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, are priced at $125, $100, $75 and $50 and are on sale tomorrow, August 9.  Tickets are available online at www.samstownlv.com/entertain.
“This is an incredible event to kick-off the biggest fight week in the history of boxing,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “We are proud to announce that some of Mayweather Promotions’ top prospects will be featured on their own FS1 and FOX Deportes card, giving the fans nonstop action and excitement for the whole week. We have a great lineup in-store with former world champion Juan Carlos Payano taking on Alexis Santiago in the main event and Jamel Herring and Ladarius Miller in the co-feature. It is truly going to be an action filled night of boxing.”
The two-time Dominican Olympian Payano began his path towards another world title with a stoppage of Isao Gonzalo Carranza in January, after first becoming a champion via a technical decision over Anselmo Moreno in September 2014. The accomplished amateur won gold at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean games with victories over McJoe Arroyo and Yoandris Salinas. He defeated Jundy Maraon, Jose Silveria and Luis Maldonado on the way to his title shot and engaged in a pair of exciting fights with Rau’shee Warren that saw him defend his title in August 2015 and lose in June 2016.
A pro since 2009, the 26-year-old Santiago had won ten consecutive bouts before dropping a decision to Jose Cayetano in his last contest. The Phoenix-native defeated Gustavo Molina, Javier Gallo and Antonio Tostado Garcia in 2015 and and has also taken down once-beaten fighters Alex Rangel and Hanzel Martinez. He will make his 2017 debut against one of his most experienced foes to date in Payano.
An amateur standout who won a 2012 Amateur National Championship the same year as his Olympic run, Herring fights out of Cincinnati and is originally from Coram, New York. The 31-year-old won his first 15 pro fights including triumphs over Luis Eduardo Florez, Yakubu Amidu and Hector Velasquez. A former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Herring bounced back from his first defeat and stopped experienced contender Art Hovhannisyan in February.
A pro since 2014, Miller won his first nine pro fights as he used his speed and skills to out box opponents. Originally from Memphis but now living and training in Las Vegas, Miller has won four fights in a row, including three by stoppage. His last bout saw Miller fight to the eighth round for the first time in his career and impressively stop the then once-beaten Jesus Gutierrez in the final frame.
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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.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,  @MayweatherPromo, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

TEAM SHIELDS CONGRATULATES BOXING’S NEWEST SUPERSTAR, CLARESSA SHIELDS, FOR WINNING UNIFIED WORLD TITLES IN FOURTH PRO FIGHT

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DETROIT (August 8, 2017) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields became the unified WBC and IBF World Super Middleweight Champion last Friday night with a dominant fifth-round TKO of now former champion Nikki Adler.
 
Fighting in front of her home state fans at MGM Grand Detroit and in the main event of a nationally televised ShoBox: The New Generation, Shields put on a display of skills and power seldom seen by a first-time world-title challenger. Without any answers to the level of talent in front of her, Adler was forced to cover up and withstand the blazing speed of Shields’ fists for five one-sided rounds.
 
A driven competitor, Shields is on a mission to become the GWOAT (Greatest Woman of All Time) and the performance against Adler has the entire world watching. Four fights into her professional career and Shields is already the face of women’s boxing.
 
“It was a dream come true to win two world title belts in one night!” said Shields. “I was very proud of my performance, and I can’t wait to defend my belts and then give Christina Hammer her first defeat.”
 
For Team Shields, the victory was more than could ever be asked for from their young fighter.
 
“Congratulations to a unified world champion Claressa Shields!” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “In less than a year as a pro, she has already achieved what no other woman has done in the sport. America’s first two-time Olympic Gold Medalist has become a professional unified world champion in just her fourth professional fight! Congratulations also to the great team behind her: long-time trainer Jason Crutchfield, Berston Field House, and to her managers who work diligently behind the scenes Mark Taffet and Jamie Fritz.  I and everyone at SP is proud and excited to be part of this exciting journey of a lady who is on a quest to be GWOAT!”
 
Shields co-manager, Mark Taffet, a long-time TV exec in boxing, says he’s never seen a performance like the one Shields turned in against Adler. “Claressa Shields’ win over Nikki Adler was the most dominant performance I have ever seen in a championship fight, male or female. She is staking her claim to be GWOAT in spectacular fashion. Claressa is carrying women’s boxing forward on her broad shoulders.”
 
Having fought three times this year already, winning two regional and two world title belts along the way, Shields says she will take some time to enjoy her historic accomplishments before plotting the next move with her team.
boxing

“Fight Night at the Bay” Results & Pictures 

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Derek Silveira stops Michael Clark
 
Aleksandra Lopes defeats Lisa Garland on points
 
Chris Traietti captures N.E. cruiserweight title
 
 SportPlex in Quincy, MA
(All pictures by Emily Harney / Granite Chin Promotions)
 
(Derek Silveira (R) defeated Michael Clark
QUINCY, Mass. (August 6, 2017) – Former New England welterweight champion Derek “The Surgeon” Silveira defeated former world title challenger Michael “Cold Blood” Clark last night (Sat., Aug. 5) in the “Fight Night at the Bay” main event, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, at Marina Bay Sportplex in Quincy, Massachusetts.
Silveira (12-1, 6 KOs), of Salem MA) used his height and length advantage to out-box the much more experienced Clark (44-16-1, 18 KOs). Due to what appeared to be a broken right hand, Clark was unable to continue after six rounds.

After the fight, Silveira got done on one knee and proposed to his girlfriend, Ashley Myers. (She accepted).

“I want to thank Michael Clark,” Silveria commented. “My buddy Martin passed away and this fight was for him. We’re back and can go as long as needed because I’m in better shape. I’m a smart fighter and I can counter guys. I hope to be back fighting September 30in Boston.”

Aleksandra Lopes (L) picked up a big win vs, Lisa Garland
In the co-featured event, three-time world title challenger Aleksandra Lopes (18-4-2, 1 KO) likely positioned herself for another world title shot, taking an eight-round decision from former world champion Lisa Garland (15-8, 8 KOs), winning all eight rounds on two judges’ scorecards and all but one on the other.

“It’s tough to judge,” said the Polish native who lives in nearby Marshfield (MA) regarding her position for another world title shot opportunity. “I hope so. I respect her but I felt that I should implement my sharper skills. She fought hard and came at me. I thought she’d go flat in the later rounds but she didn’t.

“I’m always tough on myself, Wayne (Lopes, her trainer and husband) was happy. I feel that I should have taken it to her more and I got caught up in clinches too much. The heat was difficult, I felt heated before the fight. I was more tired than usual and I let her come in winging wild punches.”
New N. E. Cruiserweight champion Chris Traietti
Iraq War veteran and Quincy’s favorite son, Chris Traietti (24-4, 19 KOs), who is also co-promoter of “Fight Night at the Bay”, pounded Nick Lavin (5-6, 4 KOs) from the opening bell to capture the vacant New England Cruiserweight Championship by way of a decisive eight-round unanimous decision. Traietti teed-off on the over-matched Lavin for most of the fight, but his tough Connecticut opponent lasted to the very end.

U.S. Marine veteran Brandon Montella (8-0, 7 KOs) remained unbeaten, registering three knockdowns against his Floridian opponent, light heavyweight “Money” Mike Sawyer (7-9, 5 KOs), in the second round, as referee Mike Ryan called the fight off right before the bell. Montella first put down Sawyer with a body shot, followed that with a straight right to the face, and Sawyer took a knee for his third trip to the canvas,
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In an entertaining fight from start to finish, Whitman (MA) welterweight Mike “Bad Man” O’Han, Jr. (1-0) made his retired fighter father proud, defeating a game Daniel Amaro(0-2-1) by way of a four-round unanimous decision. O’Han, Jr. decked Amaro twice in the first round via perfectly placed left hooks but Amaro persevered and went the full distance.

Undefeated Irish junior middleweight Paddy Irwin (4-0, 3 KOs), fighting at home in Quincy, methodically broke-down Demetrius Thomas (0-5), dropping him with a right hand in the second round, and floored him with a flurry of punches en route to a third-round stoppage only moments later by referee Ryan.

Two-time Ecuador Olympian Carlos Gongora (9-0, 8 KOs), fighting out of Brooklyn (NY), thoroughly outclassed Texas journeyman Larry “Slow Motion” Smith (10-34-1, 7 KOs)by way of a fifth-round technical knockout. Gongora, a powerful southpaw promoted by Murphy’s Boxing, started the fight firing crisp combinations to the head and body of Smith, who took a knee for an eight-count in the opening round. The action slowed through the second and third frames, but Gongora picked up the pace in the fourth, as Smith took a knee again and survived another round. The undefeated Ecuadorian middleweight closed the snow in the fifth as referee Steve Clark halted the one-sided bout.

Complete results below:  

OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – WELTERWEIGHTS
Derek Silveira (13-1, 7 KOs), Salem, MA
WTKO6 (3:00)
Michael Clark (44-17-1, 18 KOs), Columbus, OH
CO-FEATURE – FEMALE WELTERWEIGHTS
Aleksandra Lopes (18-4-2, 1 KO), Marshfield, MA
WDEC8 (80-72, 80-72, 79-730
Lisa Garland (15-8, 8 KOs), York, SC
VACANT NEW ENGLAND CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Chris Traietti (24-4, 19 KOs)
WDEC8 (79-73, 79-73, 79-73)
Nick Lavin (5-6, 4 KOs), Shelton, CT
( won vacant N.E. cruiserweight title)
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Brandon Montella (8-0, 7 KOs), Saugus, MA
WTKO2 (3:00)
Mike Sawyer (7-8, 5 KOs), Winter Park, FL
MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Carlos Gongora (9-0, 8 KOs), Brooklyn, NY
WTKO5 (1:45)
Larry Smith (10-34-1, 7 KOs), Dallas, TX
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS – ROUNDS
Paddy Irwin (4-0, 2 KOs), Quincy, MA
WTKO3 (2:15)
Demetrius Thomas (0-5), Philadelphia, PA
WELTERWEIGHTS
Mike O’Han, Jr. (2-0), Whitman, MA
WDEC4 (40-34, 40-34, 38-36)
Daniel Amaro (0-3-1), Dorchester, MA
 
Tufankjian Auto Group and Tobin Scientific were major event sponsors; additional sponsors included The Chantey, Jack Campbell Electric, Hancock Tavern, Brennan’s Smoke Shop, JN Phillips Auto Glass and Sheriff Michael Belotti.
boxing

Webster destroys Harris in 2

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Wins by Ajamu, Zhilei, Hilton, Gamhour and Taylor
For Immediate Release
Atlantic City, New Jersey (August 5, 2017)–Derrick Webster continued his quest towards a world title shot by taking out Lamar Harris in a scheduled eight-round super middleweight bout that headlined a six-bout card at The Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City.
The show was promoted by Mis Downing Promotions in association with Square Ring Promotions.

Webster dropped Harris at the end of round one as he landed a perfect straight left hand.  After that it was a matter of when Webster would end the night., as Harris was hurt, but came out to endure 28 seconds of pounding before the bout was stopped.
Webster, 167.8 lbs of Glassboro, NJ is now 24-1 with 13 knockouts.  Harris, 167.9 lbs of Saint Louis, Missouri is now 9-14-4.
“We have been working hard, and now I am looking for a title.  I want George Groves,” said Webster.
“I knew after I dropped him after the first round, the fight would be over soon thereafter.  I know Groves is in the tournament, so why not Badou Jack.  I would love to fight him.”
Prince Badi Ajamu shook eight years of ring rust to pound out an eight-round uannimous decision over Edgar Perez in a cruiserweight bout.

Ajamu, 191.4 lbs of Camden, NJ won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 28-3-1. Perez, 190 lbs of Chicago is 7-22.

“It was a good fight. I give myself a C. Everything is about knockouts,” said Ajamu. “I broke him down mentally. You could see that I had a lot of ring rust, as I don’t miss as many shots as I did, but I started to feel good around the 5th round.”

Ajamu has been linked to a rematch with Roy Jones, Jr. who beat Ajamu back in 2006.
Jones was ringside and believes that the fight could happen in November.
“He did more than enough to earn the rematch tonight.  Now it is just a matter of making it work financially and all by getting sponsorship’s and such, and that fight can happen, said Jones.

World-ranked heavyweight Zhang Zhilei hammered out Nick Guivas in round one of their scheduled ten-round bout.

Zhilei dropped Guivas in the first frame with a hard six-punch combination in the corner. Seconds later, Zhilei finsihed off the fight with a crushing four-punch combination on the ropes and the bout was stopped at 2:43.

Zhilei, 254.8 lbs of Zhoukou, China is now 17-0 with 13 knockouts. Guivas, 238 lbs of Topeka, KS is 13-8-2.

Mike Hilton went the distance for the first time, but still came out with the six-round unanimous decision over Willis Lockett in a cruiserweight bout.

Hilton, 198.5 lbs of Trenton, NJ won by scores of 60-54, 58-56 & 60-53 to raise his unblemished mark to 7-0. Lockett, 194.6 lbs of Takoma Park, MD is 14-21-6.

 
Shaddy Gamhour stopped Jessie Singletary in first round of their scheduled four round middleweight bout.
Gamhour, who is trained by Roy Jones, Jr. landed a hard right hand that sent Singletary to the canvas and the bout was stopped at 1:43.
Gamhour, 163,5 lbs of Pensacola, FL is now 4-0 with three knockouts.  Singletary, 167.3 lbs of Washington, DC is 0-3.
Tahlik Taylor needed just 31 seconds to bludgeon Lamont McLaughlin in a scheduled four round super middleweight bout.

Taylor jumped on McLaughlin and landed a vicious combination in the corner that sent McLaughlin hard to the canvas and the was stopped immediately.

Taylor, 172,8 lbs of Freeport, NY is 2-7 with 1 knockout. McLaughlin, 167.2 lbs of Philadelphia is 0-2.

Mis Downing Promotions will be back at the Claridge on Saturday, November 4th.
Bellator, boxing, mixed martial arts, MMA, Rich Bergeron, Tom Padgett, Tony Penecale, UFC

FNU Combat Sports Show: UFC 214 breakdown, Nobody Likes Dana White, Tom and Tony break down Broner vs. Garcia and Lomachenko vs. Marriaga

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This week’s combat sports show is a split personality situation. We had technical difficulties getting all of us together for the show, so we recorded Tom and Tony chatting with each other on Thursday night. I’ve added my portion today. It all worked out to some incredible insight about Mayweather vs. McGregor, Dana White’s growing problem with disgruntled stars in the UFC, Broner vs. Garcia and Lomachenko vs. Marriaga. We also break down Jon Jones beating Daniel Cormier at UFC 214 and the implications for a Brock Lesnar showdown in the Octagon. It’s far from likely, but it’s intriguing. We also touch on the retirements of Juan Manuel Marquez and Wladimir Klitschko.

Tom and Tony Talk Shop:

Rich Wraps it Up: