Category Archives: boxing

KEENAN SMITH vs. IVAN BARANCHYK SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR QUADRUPLEHEADER LIVE ON SHOWTIME

    
Ivan Baranchyk, left, faces off with Keenan Smith
Tomorrow/Friday, July 14 at 10 p.m. ET/PT from
Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.

“I’ll fight him in his own backyard if I have to.” – Keenan Smith

“I love knockouts, and I can’t wait to get another one tomorrow.” – Ivan Baranchyk

Click HERE To Download Weigh-In Photos; Credit Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Weights
Keenan Smith 140 – Ivan Baranchyk 140
Kenneth Sims, Jr. 139.4 – Rolando Chinea 139.6
Glenn Dezurn 121.6 – Adam Lopez 121.8
Joshua Greer 117.4 – Leroy Davila 117
NON-TELEVISED WEIGHTS
Antoine Douglas 159.6 – Juan De Angel 168.4
Charles Conwell 155.6 – Rick Graham TBA
Isiah Steen 163.4 – Travis Nero TBA
MIAMI, Okla., (July 13, 2017) – Undefeated super lightweights Keenan Smith and Ivan Baranchyk officially made weight on Thursday, one day before they headline a quadrupleheader tomorrow/Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Buffalo Run Casino & Resort in Miami, Okla.

Philadelphia’s rising prospect Smith (11-0, 5 KOs) takes on the hard-hitting Baranchyk (14-0, 10 KOs), who trains in Los Angeles and fights out of Miami. This will be Baranchyk’s fifth appearance on the ShoBox series, and his sixth consecutive fight in his adopted hometown of Miami.

“I respect all fighters, but he’s talking a little smack,” Smith said right after both fighters weighed in at exactly 140 pounds. “It doesn’t matter where we fight. I’ll fight him in his own backyard if I have to.”

Former national amateur champion Kenneth Sims Jr. (12-0, 4 KOs) will look to remain unbeaten when he meets aggressive five-year pro Roland Chinea (14-1-1, 6 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature.

Glenn Dezurn (9-0, 6 KOs) and Leroy Davila (5-1, 3 KOs) recently went the distance in a grueling eight-round super bantamweight bout that opened April 14‘s ShoBox telecast, where Dezurn earned a unanimous decision. Both fighters return in the opening two bouts of tomorrow night’s telecast. Dezurn will take on ShoBox veteran Adam Lopez (16-1-1, KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight clash, where Lopez will make his record-tying sixth ShoBox appearance. Davila will battle Joshua Greer (13-1-1, 5 KOs) in the eight-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the event promoted by GH3 Promotions and Tony Holden Productions are priced at $35, $55, $65 and $75 and are available for purchase now at buffalorun.com.

FINAL QUOTES:

KEENAN SMITH:
“I’ve been through a lot and it’s been hard, but I’ve been using it as motivation.

“I can box and I can punch. I’m not looking to go in and trade with this guy.

“I liked going away for camp for the first time. It made me focus and just kept my mind on boxing.

“I’m not worried about the hometown advantage.

“I’ve been training hard for this fight and tomorrow you’re going to see the best. We are looking to kill the beast. [Baranchyk] comes to fight, he swings a lot of wild punches. I’m a boxer and a puncher, I’m good at making fighters feel uncomfortable. It’s a blessing to be up here, and it’s a blessing to fight on ShoBox and it’s a big opportunity to move up the ladder.”

IVAN BARANCHYK:
“Training camp went great and we did eight weeks. I’m going to be shortening my punches up. I know Keenan is an American-style fighter and will be doing a lot of moving forward.

“I love knockouts and haven’t had one in my last three fights. I can’t wait to get another one tomorrow.”

“Everything is perfect in Los Angeles for me. The weather and the training are amazing.

“Everyone knows I had a great fight with Abel Ramos on ShoBox. It’s a pleasure people think that was the fight of the year, and maybe the best ever on ShoBox, but I’m just focused on the future.”

“I’m not going to talk much, I’m going to get inside the ring and do all my talking inside the ring.”

KENNETH SIMS JR.:
“I’ve had some good friends recently who have lost their lives, and it’s been emotional. I haven’t been using my head and I want to get back to boxing.

“I love punching to the body. I lot of people think I lack power, and I get hit with a lot of punches. My goal is to be a pure boxer and to keep putting my punches together. .

“I feel like I’m an exciting fighter. I’ve been fighting since I was 8 years old and I’ve put in the hard work.

“I think my jab is going to be the difference and a key in this fight. That and my footwork.

“I had a good training camp, no distractions. I was focused. I’m ready to put on a great show.”

ROLANDO CHINEA
“I’m a lot stronger than I was in my last fight. This is the best I’ve felt for any fight.

“My nine month layoff doesn’t mean anything. It doesn’t make any difference

“I’ve been stalking Kenneth for a while now and we’ve watched a lot of tape of him.

“People still don’t believe in me, and I still have a chip on my shoulder. I’ve fought some experienced guys and tough guys on the ‘A’ side. I’m ready to move from the ‘B’ side to the ‘A’ side.

“I’m going to show I’m here for good. You are going to see a new Rolando Chinea tomorrownight.

“I’m a workhorse and at times I’m my own worst critic.

“I watched a lot of boxing growing up. Felix Trinidad was my favorite.”

GLENN DEZURN:

“I know people are still talking about the eighth round of my last fight on ShoBox against Davila, and the crowd was going crazy, but I never focus on the crowd. I just focus what I have to do in the ring.

“I’m an old-school fighter and I’ll fight anyone. We can go out in the back alley and fight.

“I loved Sugar Ray Robinson and the approach he took in his fights.

“But at the end of the day a lot of old-school fighters have had to just get it done, fight by fight, to keep putting food on the table.

“I don’t see this as a big step up for me. I’m a pro now and I do everything like a professional. It’s been hard work, but that’s what it takes to become a world champion.

“I’m honored to be fighting on SHOWTIME once again. I’m an entertaining fighter and I put a lot of pressure on myself.”

ADAM LOPEZ:

“I need to mature more as a fighter. I wasn’t as prepared for my last fight as I should have been.

“I should win this fight easy. I watch the ShoBox fights I’ve been in and I’ve used different styles.

“We’ve worked on everything for this fight: quickness, defense, movement. If he wants to bang it out I’ll be ready for whatever he brings.

“I’ve busted my ass in the gym every day and I’m ready. This is where all the hard work pays off.

JOSHUA GREER

“My last knockout was a KO of the year candidate. Everyone knows I’m an exciting fighter and I’m a prospect looking to make things happen.

“The knockouts are addictive and it’s important to remember to stay humble and know who I am as a fighter. We’ll take them, but I’m not looking for the knockout.

“We’ve worked on the mistakes we’ve made in the past and corrected all the problems we’ve seen.

The pillow is only going to come out if there is some trash talking, and I know there will be. So you’ll be sure to see the ‘Night, Night’ pillow.”

LEROY DAVILA

“Last time I fought on ShoBox I did not strategize enough like I should have.

“He might bring the pillow into the ring, but it won’t make it out after the fight. He’ll be able to use it on himself.

“I’ve got to take him out of his game. I have to take away his biggest weapon, his right hand.”

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @GCPBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

CHRIS EUBANK JR. vs. ARTHUR ABRAHAM IBO Super Middleweight World Championship

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Arthur Abraham card 
 
Airing this Saturday live on PPV in US & in Canada on Super Channel 

TENAFLY, N.J.(July 13, 2017) –  The International Boxing Organization (IBO) World super middleweight title fight this Saturday (Julky 15) between defending champion Chris Eubank Jr.and challenger “King” Arthur Abraham will be available to watch on Pay Per View in the United States, as well as in Canada exclusively on Super Channel, starting at 2:30 pm ET / 11:30 am PT, live from SES Arena, Wembley in London, England.
“Eubank Jr. vs. Abraham”, promoted by Poxon Sports in association with Team Sauerland, is presented in the United States by Integrated Sports Media and Protocol Sports Marketing, Ltd.
Integrated Sports Media will distribute “Eubank Jr. vs. Abraham” live in the United States on cable, satellite and online PPV via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DISH and FITE TV for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.
Outside of North America, “Eubank Jr. vs. Abraham” is being distributed to broadcasters worldwide by leading boxing television rights distribution firm, Protocol Sports Marketing Ltd.
In Canada, the event will be available on television to fight fans that subscribe to premium pay television network Super Channel. Contact the local cable provider to subscribe to Super Channel and all that it offers, including premium series, movies and much more, for as low as $9.95 per month.
The winner of the 12-round main event fight, matching Eubank Jr. (24-1, 19 KOs) against 3-time, 2-division world champion will earn a spot in the World Boxing Series for the inaugural Muhammad Ali Trophy.
Also on the PPV card, International Boxing Federation (IBF) Featherweight World Champion “Lightning” Lee Selby (24-1, 9 KOs) defends his title for the third tine, versus   former WBA Featherweight World Champion and IBF No. 1 ranked contender, Argentinian challenger Jonathan Victor “Yoni” Barros (41-4-1, 22 KOs), in the 12-round co-featured event.
Two other 12-round title fights will air on the broadcast from London as No. 11-ranked Kid Galahad (22-0, 13 KOs) defends his IBF Inter-Continental featherweight title against Mexican challenger Jose “El Tigre” Cayetano (21-5, 10 KOs), while undefeated WBA Continental super lightweight champion Robbie Davis Jr. (15-0, 11 KOs), ranked No. 4 by the IBF, takes on Michal Syrowatka (18-1, 6 KOs), of Poland.
All fights and fighters subject to change.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @IntegratedPPV, @SuperChannel, @fitetv

Undefeated featherweight prospect Tramaine “The Mighty Midget” Williams To headline “KO Night Boxing: Rumble on the Water 2”

July 29 on CBS Sports Network, live from The Queen Mary

LONG BEACH. Calif. (July 13, 2017) – Undefeated featherweight prospect Tramaine “The Mighty Midget” Williams will headline the “KO Night Boxing: Rumble on the Water 2” card, on July 29, to air (10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT) on CBS Sports Network, live from The Queen Mary’s outdoor venue in Long Beach, California.
Presented by Black Tree, “KO Night Boxing: Rumble on the Water 2” is promoted by Roy Englebrecht Promotions, in association with KO Night Boxing LLC and Roc Nation Sports.
Williams (11-0, 4 KOs) faces Angel “El Gato” Luna (12-3-1, 7 KOs) in the 10-round main event.
“We’re looking forward to partnering with Black Tree, Roy Englebrecht Promotions, Roc Nation Sports and The Queen Mary for another great ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ event,” KO Night Boxing president John Andersen said. “Tramaine Williams is one of the hottest prospects in boxing and we’re excited to have him fight on another ‘KO Night Boxing’ show.”

After a sizzling start to his pro career, the New Haven, Conn. Native was inactive for nearly two years (2-13-2015) due to out-of-the-ring issues, but bounced back strong in January 2016, signing a promotional contract with Roc Nation Sports.

In his first fight under the Roc Nation Sports banner, Williams dominated Eduardo Garza (6-1) en route to an eight-round unanimous decision.in the CBS Sports Network co-featured event in Wichita, Kansas last March.

In his last fight on the Andre Ward-Sergey Kovalev II card at Mandalay Bay, Williams produced the most signature victory to date, stopping former NABO, WBC US and California State super featherweight champion Christopher Martin (30-8-3) in the second round.

Williams first began boxing at the age of nine, accumulating an impressive record of 97-10 over his amateur career. During that span, he was a ten-time national amateur champion, a two-time Ringside World champion and a four-time Silver Gloves champion. He also was a PAL National Junior Golden Gloves champion.

Luna, fighting out of the Dominican Republic, is a proven upset specialist having defeated then unbeaten (15-0-1, 11 KOs) Jose Lopez, on June 6, 2015 at Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn, by way of a six-round unanimous decision. Lopez is currently the reigning WBO International super featherweight champion.
Former amateur boxing prodigy, undefeated Brooklyn light heavyweight prospect Junior “The Young God” Younan (12-0, 9 KOs), will face an opponent to be determined in the eight-round co-featured event. Also fighting under the Roc Nation banner, the 21-year-old Younan compiled a sterling 90-5 amateur record, highlighted by his three-time Ringside World and three-time National PAL championship performances.
A pair of California heavyweights square off in the in the six-round CBSSN opener as Rodney Hernandez (10-5-2, 2 KOs), of Modesto, meets Los Angeles’ Jonnie Rice (6-2-1, 4 KOs), a former Winthrop College (SC) basketball player.
Fighting on the undercard in four-round matches are Los Angeles featherweight Sergio “El Nino” Quiroz (3-0) vs. Lupe Arroyo (2-0), of Huntington Beach (CA), Whittier (CA) lightweight George Acosta (2-0), and pro-debuting welterweights Eric Gomez, of Santa Ana (CA), and Long Beach’s Raul Calderon.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
All tickets are priced at $60.00 and on sale to purchase by calling 949.760.3131.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. PT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:30 p.m. PT.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing

Antoine Douglas now to take on Juan De Angel for NABA & WBC FECARBOX  Middleweight Titles onFriday July 14th at The Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Oklahoma

PRESS CONFERENCE & WEIGH IN TO BE STREAMED LIVE ON GH3 PROMOTIONS FACEBOOK PAGE AT 3 PM AND 5:30 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Nutley, NJ (July 13, 2017)–World ranked middleweight Antoine Douglas will now take on late-replacement  Juan De Angel.  this Friday, July 14th  in a 10-round bout that will be contested for the NABA & WBC FECARBOX Middleweight titles.
The bout will headline the non-televised portion of a ShoBox: The New Generation card, which will be televised live on SHOWTIME (10 PM ET/PT, Delayed on the West Coast) at the Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Oklahoma.
The bout will precede a televised quadruple-header that will feature Keenan Smith (11-0, 5 KOs) fighting Ivan Baranchyk 15-0, 10 KOs) in the eight-round junior welterweight main event.  In co-featured bouts, Kenneth Sims, Jr. (12-0, 4 KOs) battles Rolando Chinea (14-1-1, 6 KOs) in a junior welterweight bout, and  Glenn Dezurn (9-0, 6 KOs) takes on Adam Lopez (16-1-1, 8 KOs) in a super bantamweight fight.  The televised card will kick off with a super bantamweight fight that will pit Joshua Greer (13-1-1, 5 KOs) against LeRoy Davila (5-1, 3 KOs).
Douglas of Washington, DC has a record of 21-1-1 with 15 knockouts, and is ranked No.10 by the WBC.
Since suffering his only professional defeat, Douglas has comeback to score two consecutive knockouts, with the latest being a second round stoppage over Eduardo Mercedes on March 27.  In that bout, Douglas captured the WBC FECARBOX Middleweight title.
De Angel of Barranquilla, Colombia has a record of 20-6 with 18 knockouts.
De Angel, 30 years old is a former WBO Latino Welterweight and Middleweight champion, who has a career best victory over Jose Pinzon.
De Angel is a nine-year veteran, who has shared the ring with world champion Gilberto Ramirez as well as undefeated contenders Knat Islam and Caleb Plant.

“Every fighter in the middleweight division needs to take note, I’m coming for all Y’all”

Photo by Team Arias
BROOKLYN, NY (July 13, 2017) – Undefeated IBF #6 middleweight contender, Luis Arias (18-0, 9 KOs), is coming off a stellar performance, winning by fifth round knockout against once beaten, Arif Magomedov.  He now has his sights set on conquering the whole entire middleweight division.
“Every fighter in the middleweight division needs to take note, I’m coming for all Y’all, especially the Golovkin vs. Canelo winner,” said Luis Arias. “Billy Joe Saunders can get a beating too.  I have the skills, hunger and heart to become the unified middleweight champion of the world.  I’m going to make a statement in every fight moving forward.  I won’t be denied.”
In addition, Arias gives his thoughts on the Floyd Mayweather vs. Connor McGregorshowdown taking place at the T-Mobile Arena on August 26th.
“I think the Floyd Mayweather vs. Connor McGregor fight is going to be bad for boxing, but good for MMA,” Arias continued. “Never will an MMA fighter be on a stage like this.  Floyd is going to mop him up.  I think I would whoop McGregor’s ass if we fought in the ring.  He would have the advantage in the octagon, but I know with some MMA training, I would give him some serious problems.”

Fight of the Year candidate between Kermit Cintron and Tyrone Brunson to have at least four airings in the coming weeks

          

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA (July 13, 2017) – The scintillating Pennsylvania Junior Middleweight championship bout that took place on June 24th  between former two-time world champion Kermit Cintron and knockout artist Tyrone Brunson will have at least four airings in Philadelphia area in the coming weeks.
The first airing will this Friday night, July 14th at 9:30 PM ET on The Comcast Network.
Subsequent airings will be on Comcast Sportsnet on Wednesday, July 19th at 9 PM;Sunday, July 23rd at 11 PM and Wednesday, August 2nd at 8:30 PM.
The bout, which was won by Brunson via 5th round stoppage had five knockdowns, and saw Brunson come back from almost-certain defeat and take out Cintron in what ringside observers are calling a sure-fire Fight of the Year candidate.The match is added to the list of classic fights in the long storied history of Philadelphia boxing.
“For the fans that were inside the 2300 Arena, they can witness this great fight again, and for those who only heard about it, they are in for a treat,” said King’s Promotions CEO, Marshall Kauffman.
“I am glad that the fight will be shown in the Philadelphia region.”

TENSION ESCALATES BETWEEN FLOYD MAYWEATHER AND CONOR McGREGOR IN TORONTO ON SECOND STOP OF BLOCKBUSTER WORLD TOUR

 

 

Capacity Crowd Of Estimated 16,000 Fans Pack Toronto’s Budweiser Stage On Wednesday As Mayweather and McGregor Meet For Just The Second Time

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Esther Lin/SHOWTIME Sports

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Edris Erba/Mayweather Promotions (Note: Images will be uploaded shortly)

 

TORONTO (July 12, 2017) – The tension between boxing legend Floyd Mayweather and UFC superstar Conor McGregor boiled over into Toronto on Wednesday as the global stars continued their blockbuster World Tour to announce their Aug. 26showdown on SHOWTIME PPV from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

 

Mayweather and McGregor met on Wednesday for just the second time, jarring toe-to-toe for more than three minutes in the initial faceoff in front of a largely pro-McGregor crowd at Toronto’s Budweiser Stage. 

 

Multi-platinum and GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist Drake made a special guest appearance in front of his hometown Toronto fans “to witness history” for an event to celebrate what he called “the biggest fight in the history of fighting.” 

 

After hearing McGregor once again promised to knock out a man that’s never been beaten, Mayweather challenged McGregor to put his money where his mouth is.

 

“If you believe in yourself like you say you believe in yourself, bet your whole fight check,” Mayweather said.

 

“One shot is all it takes,” promise McGregor.  “Check the facts – I bounce heads off the canvas.”

 

To watch Wednesday’s press conference in full, visit the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel:https://youtu.be/n7ZcGjg03-E

 

The Mayweather vs. McGregor World Tour continues Thursday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and concludes on Friday at Wembley Arena in London. 

 

Below are flash quotes from today’s event in Toronto:

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER:

“We’re not talking about being at the top for one year, two years, three years, four years. We’re talking about 21 years.

 

“Turn the pressure up.  I don’t quit, I don’t fold under pressure.  I’m the best and I know I’m the best.

 

“If you believe in yourself like you say you believe in yourself, bet your whole fight check.”

 

CONOR MCGREGOR:

“I thrive in uncomfortable positions.  There is nothing these guys can do to phase me. Twenty-eight years of age, I’m getting fight checks and promoter checks.  When Floyd was 28, he was on Oscar De La Hoya’s undercard and that’s just facts.

 

“Toronto, what a city. I was here one time, I was also on a world tour.  I was also facing an unconquerable quest.  I was facing the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet, Jose Aldo. They said the same things then as they’re saying now. They said I have no chance.  They said I’m in over my head.  They said [he] kicks too hard, too many weapons. The Irishman is going to fall short, he doesn’t stand a hope.  It took me 13 seconds.

 

“One shot is all it takes.  Check the facts.  I bounce heads off the canvas.

 

“He tip-tap-toes to a decision. He’s never fought a day in his life, he’s a runner.”

 

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 an unprecedented event that takes place Saturday, August 26 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  The event telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.

Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
Omar Figueroa vs. Robert Guerrero, Marcus Browne vs. Seanie Monaghan & Artur Szpilka vs. Adam Kownacki Tripleheader ThisSaturday, July 15 from NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
MANHATTAN (July 12, 2017) – Former world champions Omar Figueroa and Robert Guerrero went face-to-face Wednesday at the final press conference before Saturday’sPremier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes tripleheader taking place at the newly-renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
Also in attendance Wednesday and competing in televised action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT were unbeaten light heavyweights Marcus Browne and Seanie Monaghan plus Polish heavyweights Artur Szpilka and Adam Kownacki.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visitingwww.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.
Additional action on Saturday begins on FS1 and FOX Deportes at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature a welterweight matchup between Jamal James and Jo Jo Dan, plus unbeaten prospect Brandon Figueroa, brother of Omar Figueroa, who was in attendance Wednesday and will face Eliezer Aquino.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from Gallagher’s Steakhouse in Manhattan:
OMAR FIGUEROA
“We know that Guerrero is a tough guy and it’s going to be a rough fight. We prepared really well to go 12-rounds and get the win.
“I love having my brother Brandon in camp and on this card with me. It gives me an opportunity to take my mind off of my fight and focus on Brandon for a bit. It really helps me cope with everything leading up to a big fight.
“Training camp was amazing. We did a lot of sparring with lefties so that my footwork is down. Other than that I was just grinding every day and trying to get better.
“I’m really happy to have the team that I have. Joel Diaz and I work really well together because we have the same mentality, but he can tell me when I need to take a step back.
“New York is one of the places that has held historic fights. Being on that same stage as great fighters from the past is amazing. It’s one of those things that makes you feel like you made it.
“I know how hard Robert Guerrero has worked to get to this point in his career. I want to prove that I can be in the big fights that Guerrero has already had. I’ve had a long time off but I can’t wait to get it on Saturday night.
“I feel like I have everything in my arsenal to make this a successful night. I’m looking to show all of the things I’ve been working with Joel Diaz on and give the fans a great fight to remember.”
ROBERT GUERRERO
“I’m expecting Omar to come to fight. He’s undefeated with a great record so if it’s not broken, I don’t expect him to change his style.
“You have to prepare for everything for a guy as awkward as Omar. I’m going to have to make adjustments in the ring. If I can stay focused I know I can get the victory.
“I’ve made a lot of improvements since the last time people saw me. There’s way too much talent in this division for me to just come forward and press. I’m in great shape and I’m ready to work behind my jab do everything I need to do to be successful in the ring.
“I’m blessed to be here and have this tremendous opportunity in the main event again on FOX and FOX Deportes. It’s been a while since I’ve been in the ring but I never stopped working in the gym.
“I’ve said before that I had to go to the drawing board but this time we erased everything and rewrote it. This layoff has really helped me get in great shape and I’m really excited to get in the ring. I’m ready to turn the page to the next chapter of my career and that starts with this fight.
“It’s an honor to be able to work with my dad every day. It’s an incredible blessing for me to have such a loyal team. My father treats me like a man just like he always has. He makes me a better fighter every time out. He knows me like the back of his hand.”
MARCUS BROWNE
“I’m ready to roll. I’m ready let my hands go and get in the ring and rumble on Saturday night. This is going to be a great night of fights.
“This is a big fight for me. It’s a great fight against a very determined and experienced fighter. Seanie is a veteran in this sport but he’s still hungry. He has a lot to lose, as do I. We’re both going to put it on the line.
“I’m excited to be part of opening up this new venue. There are a lot of different cultures that come together in Long Island and it should make for a great crowd.
“I think the timing that my career has progressed has been great. I’ve been going step-by-step and I feel like I’m on a good path towards a world title.
“I’m very familiar with Seanie from sparring together but I know that he’s a veteran who’s going to have a great game plan. Training camp has me ready and I’m going to be prepared to make adjustments. I’m ready to lay it all out there.”
SEANIE MONAGHAN
“Training camp has been excellent. I’ve been sparring a lot of lefties and getting ready for this style matchup. This is probably the longest camp I’ve ever had and I feel great. I’m on weight right now and ready for this fight. This is the best shape I’ve ever been in.
“It’s very inspiring to be looking at the place that you’ll be fighting while you’re training. I do my hardest workout on the track right across the street from the Coliseum. It helps me dig deep while I’m suffering.
“This is going to be an interesting matchup. Marcus and I are pretty much opposites in the ring. I’m a righty and he’s a lefty. He’s a fast-starter and I’m a strong finisher. It’s my job to turn it into a battle of wills.
“I’m fully-charged physically and locked and loaded mentally heading into Saturday night. This is the caliber of opponent I’ve been looking to face for a while and I’ll be ready when the bell rings.
“This is my 29th time getting into the professional ring so I’m not concerned about the emotions that come with fighting at home. Any kind of energy that I feel, I’m going to use it for fuel in the later rounds when I need it.”
ARTUR SZPILKA
“I want to show that my loss was an accident and that I’m ready to put on a great show for the fans.
“We will see how hard this fight will be. That is up to him, because I will be ready to put it all on the line and get this win. People want to see emotions in the ring and we will see if Kownacki is ready for me.
“I have to take this fight very seriously. I am in the best shape of my career. I can’t take for granted that I’m going to go in there and knock him out immediately.
“I waited a long time for this return. I broke my hand after the Deontay Wilder fight but now I am back and 100 percent ready for this fight.
“Adam is like I was before. He’s working his way up this sport and he’s very hungry. I respect Adam and I wish him the best, but not on Saturday night.”
ADAM KOWNACKI
“This is a big stage and a great challenge for me. Now it’s time for me to show that I’m ready for this. I’ve never ducked a challenge and I never will.
“All the hard work is done. I feel great after a really strong training camp and now the fun part comes Saturday night.
“I sparred with (top U.S. amateur) Cam Awesome, who is a good mover around the ring so he’s definitely helped prepare me for what Artur is going to bring.
“It means a lot to be in a fight between two Polish heavyweights. We’re two of the best Polish heavyweights in the world and only one of us can wear the crown.
“This is my coming out party. I’m going to make a statement on Saturday. I’ve been patiently waiting for this chance and now I’m going to prove that I belong.
“Artur and I definitely have different styles. I’m more of a puncher and he’s more of a mover. I worked a lot in training camp on cutting off the ring.”
BRANDON FIGUEROA
“I feel like I’ve improved a lot during this training camp. I feel very strong and confident heading into this fight. It’s really exciting to be on a card like this with my brother headlining.
“I’m just going to take my career step-by-step and take it one fight at a time. Hopefully if I keep working hard and performing I can get a title shot. I just want to take every fight that I can so that I can perform in front of the fans and give them a great show.
“I feel very prepared and very confident heading into this fight. This is definitely one of the best camps I’ve had. I fight a lot of heavy guys in Joel Diaz’s gym and it helped me get perfectly prepared for this fight.
“I love fighting on television so that I can give fans a good show. I’m always hungry for the win and now being in New York is an added piece of motivation.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
On Saturday big-time boxing returns to Long Island. It’s been 31 years since a big boxing show on Long Island and that show was headlined by Mike Tyson. Saturday night is going to be a great night for boxing in the New York area.
“This show has three terrific fights coming to us on Saturday night. I love that this card has three fights where the outcome is up in the air and they’re all-action matchups.
“Artur and Adam are in something of a grudge match, with these two Polish heavyweights talking about this for over a year, and now it’s finally going to happen. This is an important heavyweight fight. The loser takes a big step back.
“Marcus Browne is a young lion rising his way up the ranks at light heavyweight. Seanie has been waiting a long time for an opportunity like this. The winner of this fight is right there for a world title. These guys have been friendly in the past, but they won’t be friends on Saturdaynight.
“The main event is definitely a crossroads fight to some extent. I have tremendous respect for both Omar and Robert. Omar is returning to the ring against one of the most experienced and battle-tested fighters out there in Guerrero.
“This is going to be a good night for Long Island and everyone who watches this in person or on FOX and FOX Deportes is going to be in for a great night of fighting.”
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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.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepagewww.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsportsand www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor Los Angeles Press Conference Quotes & Photos

World Tour Kicks Off with Raucous Press Conference as Global Stars Discuss Saturday, August 26 Showdown on SHOWTIME PPV

From T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

 

“I am guaranteeing you this. You are going out on your face or on your back. So which way do you want to go?” – Mayweather

 

“I’m going to knock him out inside of four rounds. Mark my words,” – McGregor

 

Click HERE for Photos from Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

LOS ANGELES (July 11, 2017) – Unbeaten boxing legend Floyd “Money” Mayweather and UFC star “The Notorious” Conor McGregor went face-to-face for the first time on Tuesday, in a highly anticipated press conference in front of over 11,000 fans at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles as the two global stars discussed their Saturday, August 26 showdown at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event that will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV.

 

The fighters posed for the first face-off of the unprecedented event that has captured the imagination of sports fans around the world. Mayweather and McGregor will meet in a super welterweight contest that serves as the first time champions from boxing and MMA will meet in a sanctioned boxing match.

 

The Mayweather vs. McGregor world tour will continue on to Toronto, New York City and London as the superstars deliver all the spectacle of the summer’s biggest event directly to the fans who demanded it.

 

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday:

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

 

“Everyone knows I’ve never backed down from anybody. You line them up, and I knock them down like bowling pins. OnAugust 26, I’m knocking Conor out.

 

“I am guaranteeing you this. You are going out on your face or on your back. So which way do you want to go?

 

“Twenty one is the number. They ask me why is that the number? Because that’s how long I’ve been kicking ass. I don’t care about a ring or an octagon. Put me in there and I’m going to kick ass.

 

“It takes two warriors to bring an event like this together. The two biggest forces in combat sports made this happen.

 

“This was something that the fans wanted to see. I spoke to my team and said that the Mayweather-McGregor fight can be the biggest fight in history. That’s what we’re here to turn into reality.

 

“McGregor is a professional, stand-up fighter. The only loss he took was when he was on the ground. He’s a tough competitor and I’m taking him very seriously.

 

“Everyone knows I’ve been doing this for a long time. I’ve been here before. He’s a tough guy though and a warrior. The best must fight the best. The fans wanted this fight, me and McGregor wanted the fight. It’s going to be blood, sweat and tears onAugust 26.

 

“Training camp has been rough. I know deep in my heart that this is the last one. I’m taking care of my body and giving myself time off to allow my body to rejuvenate.

 

“Conor really wants to win. Extremely badly. Other fighters it usually plays out two ways. Some guys play it safe and then some like Marcos Maidana go for the kill. I think he’s the Maidana-type. He’s a heavy-hitter so I have to be cautious. It’s going to basically be a toe-to-toe battle.”

 

CONOR MCGREGOR

 

“My mind is blown. I’m absolutely honored to be here in front of you fans for this great spectacle. Somebody’s 0 has got to go.

 

“He’s got little legs and little hands. I’m going to knock him out inside of four rounds. Mark my words.

 

“I’m a young, confident, happy man. I’ve worked extremely hard for this. I’m going to embrace everything. No one can do anything to me. I’m going to have a good time.

 

“Floyd will be unconscious inside of four rounds. The power and ferociousness that I have, he’s never experienced it before. I don’t fear him.

 

“Even if he catches one of my punches with his glove, it will still hurt him. I’m like nothing he’s ever seen before.

 

“Twelve, three minute rounds is going to be a breeze for me. Not to take anything away from this sport, but I have no worries about going twelve rounds with Floyd.

 

“Floyd is the perfect motivation for me to go in and conquer the supposedly unconquerable. What more motivation could you need? This pushes me on to do these record-breaking events.”

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

 

“This is a great fight that the fans have demanded. That’s exactly what we’re going to give them on August 26.

 

“Floyd Mayweather is the undefeated, pound-for-pound king and The Best Ever. He’s here to give the fans what they wanted and that’s his huge event a memorable fight on August 26.

 

“Mayweather Promotions is all about giving the fans exactly what they want, and this battle between Floyd and Conor is going to deliver all of that and much more.

 

“This is the can’t-miss event of the summer and this crowd at STAPLES Center proves just how big it’s going to be. This whole week we’ll be bringing all the excitement of a fight week to sold out venues throughout the world.”

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

 

“Over the last several years, SHOWTIME has teamed up with MGM and Mayweather Promotions to give fans the biggest and most exciting events in sports. Record-breaking event after record breaking event. We also have a long history of MMA in SHOWTIME and are glad to be in business with UFC and Conor McGregor.

 

“We will be working to deliver this event to the fans in unprecedented ways. We will give you new ways to experience the preparation leading up to the fight and then fight night, like never before. We’ll bring you behind the scenes and up close and personal with the “All Access” series. Your backstage pass to this fight premieres on July 28 on SHOWTIME.

 

“They said this fight could never be made, they said this fight would never happen, but this fight is no surprise. 10 years ago Floyd decided to leave his promoter and become his own boss. He became his own boss and broke PPV record after PPV record. Here we are, 49-0, he’s fought 24 world champions, and never lost. Floyd Mayweather has generated 20 million PPV buys and 1.3 billion dollars in PPVs. He is by far the number one attraction in sports and entertainment. There is no one else who is even close.

 

“Am I surprised that this fight is happening? Especially against someone younger, bigger and stronger than he is. Not at all. This is Floyd’s plan. To put on the most exciting and spectacular events that the sports world has ever seen. That’s whatAugust 26 will be. That’s been the plan all along. ”

 

DANA WHITE, President of UFC

 

“This is the biggest fight any of us have ever been a part of. People have just rallied behind this fight. Don’t judge a fight until the fight is over. You never know what’s going to happen, especially with a guy like Conor who hits like a truck. When he hurts someone, he puts them away.

 

“This is a completely full event today, not a seat left. We had to move to a bigger venue in Toronto. Barclays Center sold out and then today tickets sold out at Wembley in 10 minutes. There’s never been anything like this.

 

“Floyd is almost 41 years old. Conor is a young southpaw who hits hard. We’ll see how it plays out. It’s crazy to think that Conor won’t connect with him.

 

“Conor McGregor believes in himself like nobody I’ve ever seen before. What he thinks about, he manifests into reality. The boxing media will get to know Conor on this tour and see the mental warfare that he engages in. Then on fight night, Conor is going to try to knock Floyd out.”

 

RICHARD STURM, President of Sports and Entertainment, MGM Resorts International

 

“Thank you to all the great fight fans around the globe watching this event. We’re thrilled that this event will be held at T-Mobile Arena, the home of the biggest events in the sports and entertainment industry. In only 15 months the T-Mobile Arena has become an industry leader and home to many of the greatest entertainers and athletes in the world.

 

“Las Vegas and the T-Mobile Arena will be the center of the sports universe for this great spectacle when two great champions bring these two sports together for the first time. It’s going to be an absolutely electric weekend. We look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience to all the fans who travel from around the world to this great event.”

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and www.mgmgrand.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/SHOSportsandwww.Facebook.com/UFC

FLOYD MAYWEATHER TO MEET CONOR McGREGOR IN UNPRECEDENTED BOXING EVENT

 
Saturday, August 26 Live on SHOWTIME PPV®
From T-MOBILE ARENA in Las Vegas
 
LAS VEGAS (July 11, 2017) – A worldwide audience will witness a one-of-a-kind sporting event when legendary boxer and pound-for-pound king Floyd “Money” Mayweather returns to the ring to battle all-time MMA great and UFC champion “The Notorious” Conor McGregor in a 12-round boxing match. The fight announcement on June 14 captured the world’s attention as fans across the globe anticipate the outcome of this once-in-a-lifetime showdown taking place Saturday, Aug. 26 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  The event will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and promoted by Mayweather Promotions.
A 12-time world champion in five weight classes, the 40-year-old Mayweather retired undefeated in September 2015 as one of the greatest to ever step in the ring, buoyed by box office success that saw him shatter nearly all of the revenue records in the sport’s history. Now, he returns to challenge the bold, powerful and popular McGregor, whose elite striking skills put him in the record books as the first athlete to hold two UFC titles simultaneously, all while soaring to the mantle of the sport’s No. 1 PPV attraction at only 28 years old.
Mayweather and McGregor will meet in a super welterweight contest (154-pound limit), serving as the first time champions from boxing and MMA will meet in a sanctioned boxing match.
“There was only one name that could bring me out of retirement and that’s Conor McGregor,” said Mayweather. “I’m excited to give the fans what they’ve all been asking for. I always want to do something different and groundbreaking and this fight with Conor is that perfect opportunity. He’s a young, skilled and powerful guy who I’m not going to take for granted. I expect to come out victorious, but anything can happen in the ring. This is a must-see event live or on pay-per-view on August 26. The whole world will be watching Mayweather vs. McGregor.”
“This is a historic fight and will be the greatest spectacle in combat sports history,” said McGregor. “I am about to change the entire approach to fighting as it stands today. OnAugust 26 I will shock the world. Again.”
The SHOWTIME PPV on-air team will call the action on the telecast beginning live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.  The telecast also will be available in Spanish using secondary audio programming (SAP).
Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions, said, “Floyd has been a trailblazer his whole career and this event proves that he is still the marquee name in the fight game. This is the kind of event that Floyd Mayweather and Mayweather Promotions are known for and we’re proud to bring this exciting night of action right to the fans. We know that Conor McGregor is a dangerous fighter who believes 100 percent that he is going to win this fight. I’m expecting to see as sharp a Floyd as always and I anticipate him doing what he always does, going in there and winning. You will not want to miss this once-in-a-generation showdown on August 26 in Las Vegas and live on SHOWTIME PPV.”
Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports, said, “We are proud to reunite with Floyd Mayweather, Mayweather Promotions and the MGM Grand to deliver this unprecedented global event. Never before, in the vast experience of SHOWTIME PPV which includes worldwide events featuring record-setting events with Mike Tyson, Julio Cesar Chavez and Floyd Mayweather, have we experienced a reaction like we have to Mayweather vs. McGregor.  Both Floyd and Conor are trend-setting personalities who have transcended their respective sports.  They carry unmatched reputations for spectacle and athleticism, and together they create a truly can’t-miss event.”
Dana White, President of UFC said, “My goal has always been to put on the greatest fights the world has ever seen, whether they take place inside an Octagon or a boxing ring. Floyd Mayweather is one of the best fighters of all-time but he has never faced someone like Conor McGregor. Throughout his UFC career, Conor has proven that he should never be underestimated and I believe this will be no different. On August 26th, we will see the biggest fight in history. The world will be watching to see if Conor can follow through on another promise and make history once more. No matter the outcome, this will be a historic night in sports and we are honored to give the fans what they have been asking for.”
Richard Sturm, president of entertainment and sports for MGM Resorts International, said, “It is an honor to have the opportunity to host the Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor fight at T-Mobile Arena, our industry’s leading venue for major sports and entertainment. Las Vegas is known for its summer heat but nothing will be hotter than this championship event on August 26.”
One of the most decorated fighters in the history of the sport, Mayweather, of Grand Rapids, Mich., and fighting out of Las Vegas, used his trademark speed, defensive prowess and ring generalship on his way to 24 triumphs over world champions during his illustrious career.  Among those 24 victories are the biggest names in the sport, past and present, including Manny Pacquiao, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Canelo Alvarez, Shane Mosley, Juan Manuel Marquez, Zab Judah and Arturo Gatti.
In addition to his in-ring accomplishments, Forbes, Fortune and Sports Illustrated have all named Mayweather the world’s highest paid athlete multiple times. His events amass record-breaking numbers; he has headlined four of the six highest-grossing pay-per-view events of all-time and holds the all-time record in gross pay-per-view receipts.  His 2015 showdown with Pacquaio shattered the all-time pay-per-view television record with 4.6 million buys while the event grossed a staggering total of more than $600 million.
Mayweather, the only fighter to have headlined three events that each generated more than 2 million pay-per-view buys, has garnered numerous “Fighter of the Year” awards over his storied career, including five ESPY Awards and two Boxing Writers Association of America awards.
Representing his hometown of Dublin, Ireland, McGregor’s larger than life personality and devastating power have helped him become his sport’s No. 1 attraction. He became the first MMA fighter to crack Forbes highest-paid athlete list in 2016 and was even higher on the list in 2017.
He became the undisputed UFC featherweight world champion by delivering pinpoint left handed shots that quickly ended the nights of top fighters Jose Aldo and Chad Mendes. McGregor then moved up in weight for a pair of blockbuster matchups with Nate Diaz that saw him set a new mark for UFC pay-per-view buys when he defeated Diaz in the rematch last August.
After dispatching Diaz, McGregor set his sights on history as he headlined at Madison Square Garden against lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez. McGregor put on a striking clinic against Alvarez knocking him down five times before getting the second round knockout and adding the lightweight title to his featherweight world title, becoming the first UFC fighter to ever hold two belts concurrently.
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About Mayweather Promotions
Appropriately based in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Mayweather Promotions was established in 2007 by former 12-time world champion and undefeated boxing icon, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. Mayweather Promotions seamlessly promotes all forms of live entertainment and has blazed its own trail to unprecedented financial success; netting in excess of $350 million while generating over $1 billion in Pay-Per-View revenues.
A well-respected organization in sports & entertainment, the company has successfully garnered attention through producing some of the largest boxing events that the sport has witnessed over the past decade. What started with one fighter has grown to 30 plus active professional boxers that include current and former world champions, Olympians, and top up and coming prospects.
Coming off the success of four consecutive sellout shows with much more to come, 2017 has proven to be a cutting-edge year for Mayweather Promotions. Mayweather Promotions seeks to maintain their global platform as they embark upon new endeavors for fans all over the world. For more information, visit Mayweatherpromotions.com and follow Mayweather Promotions on Facebook at: facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, Twitter & Snapchat: @MayweatherPromo and Instagram: @MayweatherPromotions.