Category Archives: boxing

Bellator, boxing, mixed martial arts, MMA, Rich Bergeron, Tom Padgett, Tony Penecale, UFC

FNU Combat Sports Show: UFC Fight Night and Bellator 177 Recap and upcoming MMA and Boxing Schedule

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This week’s broadcast features recaps and previews of MMA and boxing events around the world. Tony, Tom and Rich also discuss politics and go off on a couple tangents here and there. We make it the whole episode this week without mentioning MacGregor vs. Mayweather even once.

We do break down some huge upcoming fights with Andre Berto taking on Shawn Porter in the main event on Showtime this week and a fourth MMA fight between Daniel Straus and Patricio “Pitbull” Friere at Bellator 178 on Friday night. We also have another UFC fight night to discuss and last week’s MMA results to go over.

 

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RASHEED WALLACE, RAGING BABE, AND FOR ALMA HOME TEAM UP TO SHINE THE SPOTLIGHT ON “BOXING MOMS”

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North Carolina’s Boxing Moms to Wine and Dine this Sundayfor Bonding and Laughs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Durham, North Carolina – April 20, 2017 – During nearly every televised fight, and in every montage during pre-fight documentaries on cable networks, there is a consistent figure cheering ringside, wiping tears at her son’s victory or defeat, or clawing her way to the ring while her baby lays sprawled on the canvas. Behind so many of today’s successful and not-so-successful fighters is a mother. Whether or not she wasn’t always present, or was a doting mother, or a major motivator who spent days, weeks and months in the gym, these women played a significant role in the development of these fighters as both warriors within the ring, and men outside the ring.

It has long been a dream of “Raging Babe” Michelle Rosado to tell these women’s stories – To bring them together to share their struggles and triumphs, and add a new dimension to the long-told stories of these young men, who have selected the hurt game as their chosen professions.

With the help of former Tarheel and NBA Veteran Rasheed Wallace, Rosado will finally see her passion project come to fruition. The two crossed paths when they were introduced by a mutual friend from Philadelphia. Wallace was an avid boxing fan, and had a desire to be involved in North Carolina’s active boxing scene. Rosado had just begun work with North Carolina-based Top Catz Boxing. Through several meetings, their passions intermingled, and Rosado’s passion project became Wallace’s.

The duo plans a special dinner for North Carolina’s Boxing Moms this Sunday at For Alma Home in Durham. Many of the women attending have sons that will be fighting days later at Top Catz Boxing’s Thursday Night Fights at the Armory. Plans for the dinner include pampering and gifts courtesy of For Alma Home, along with networking and bonding.

“This has been a dream for me for years – having the opportunity to recognize these strong women, these Raging Babes, and share their stories, and their struggles,” said Rosado. “I’m so grateful to Rasheed Wallace, who immediately saw the value and the vision in bringing these women’s stories to light. I’m looking forward to Sunday’s event, and what the future brings.”

Wallace, whose own mother was instrumental in his personal development, was eager to be a part of the project. “I have long been a boxing fan, and am excited to have an opportunity to recognize these mothers. I hadn’t actually thought about what mothers go through, seeing their sons in the ring, fighting, winning, or being knocked out. It will be an honor to share their views, and their stories.”

Both Rosado and Wallace are eager to see where Boxing Moms takes them, but the journey begins this Sunday in North Carolina, where mothers of boxers fighting on next week’s Thursday Night Fights at the Armory card gather to forge new friendships, and share their triumphs and challenges.
boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Cruiserweight World Champion Beibut Shumenov Injured, Unable to Defend Title Against Yunier Dorticos In Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions Show on  FS1 & FOX Deportes on April 29

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Interim Featherweight Champion Carlos Zambrano
Will Defend Title Against Claudio Marrero in
 Main Event While Unbeaten Jeison Rosario Meets Nathaniel Gallimore in Co-Main Event Live from Las Vegas
 
LAS VEGAS (April 20, 2017) – Cruiserweight world champion Beibut Shumenov (17-2, 11 KOs) suffered an eye injury in training on Wednesday and will not be able to defend his title against Yunier Dorticos (21-0, 20 KOs) in the main event of a special Saturday night edition of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes, April 29 from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.
Shumenov-Dorticos has been postponed until Shumenov has completely healed from his injury. It will be rescheduled as soon as Shumenov is healthy enough to return to training. There is no timetable yet on when he is expected to return from the injury.
WBA Interim Featherweight Champion Carlos Zambrano (26-0, KOs) defending his title against once-beaten contender Claudio Marrero (21-1, 15 KOs) has been elevated to the main event.
Televised coverage will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated Jeison Rosario (12-0, 9 KOs) taking on once-beaten Nathaniel Gallimore (17-1-1, 14 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight attraction.
“It is disappointing that Shumenov suffered an eye injury in training. Unfortunately, that’s the nature of boxing,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “We were looking forward to seeing him defend his cruiserweight world title against Dorticos. I hope he makes a full recovery and we can reschedule the match.
“Now, we’re looking forward to Carlos Zambrano making his Mayweather Promotions debut in a scintillating match against a very tough challenger in Claudio Marrero on FS1 and FOX Deportes.”
An unbeaten fighter from Lima, Peru, Zambrano turned pro in 2008 and fought nine of his first 12 bouts in the U.S. He won a South American regional title in 2012 and began moving up the featherweight rankings with a knockout victory over Devis Perez in 2014. He picked up his interim title with a unanimous decision victory over Daniel Ramirez in 2015 and defended the belt successfully against Jose Sanmartin later that year.
A former title challenger who lost a narrow decision to Jesus Cuellar in 2013, Marrero has won seven-straight bouts since then. Most recently, the 28-year-old knocked down Luis Hinojosa four times before stopping him in the fourth round in August 2016. A native of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Marrero was an accomplished amateur who will be fighting in Las Vegas for the second time in his pro career.
An unbeaten fighter out of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Rosario will make his U.S. debut when he enters the ring on May 16. A pro since 2013, the 22-year-old scored knockouts in his first three starts and won a Domincan welterweight title with a second round stoppage of Jose Vidal Soto in 2014. Rosario’s last three starts have seen him score TKO victories over Euro Gonzalez plus previously unbeaten fighters Carlos Jairo Cruz and Rafael Lorenzo.
Originally from Kingston, Jamaica and fighting out of Evanston, Illinois, Gallimore enters this fight having won his last four bouts, all by knockout. The 28-year-old has fought professionally since 2014 and was unbeaten in his first 14 outings before losing a narrow split-decision last June. He began his 2017 with a third round stoppage of Angel Hernandez in early April.
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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,www.mayweatherpromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage, www.foxdeportes.com.and www.TGBPromotions.com Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,  @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportesand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Andre Berto vs. Shawn Porter Press Conference  Quotes & Photos

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Former World Champions Meet in Welterweight World Title Eliminator That Headlines a Premier Boxing Champions Event,Saturday, April 22 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & 
Live on SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (April 20, 2017) – Former world champions Andre Berto and Shawn Porter went face-to-face Thursday two days before they enter the ring for a world title eliminator showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, this Saturday, April 22 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo and top rated contender Charley Hatley and their camps exchanged heated words during Thursday’s press conference prior to their co-main event matchup live on SHOWTIME at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT.
Also in attendance Thursday and headlining SHOWTIME EXTREME action were four-time world champion Amanda Serrano looks to become the first female fighter and first Puerto Rican to win titles in five weight classes when she fights Dahiana Santana for a vacant 118-pound title. Coverage begins at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT with unbeaten prospect Jose Miguel Borrego battling California’s John Delperdang.
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 visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the participants had to say Thursday:
ANDRE BERTO
“I started my career in New York and it feels great to be back here in New York. This is going to be a fantastic night of fights. I go a long way back with a lot these fighters up here. It’s tremendous to see these fighters still dialed-in and at this level. I’m the old vet in the group now.
“I’m still on top of my game. That’s something that’s hard to do. We had a tremendous camp. One of the best I’ve had in years. I was focused the whole time.
“I’m looking forward to putting those straps on just like they never left. I respect Shawn and his dad, but right now, they’re in the way.
“I’m going to show you what it is to go through adversity in life and make it to the top again. Saturday night, we’re going to make it happen.”
SHAWN PORTER
“When it’s time for the fight, Andre Berto and I are going to put on a show. I’ve seen this man get hit, I’ve seen him get put down and he got up. I know he can be hurt and I know he can be stopped, He’s a man just like me. He’s ready, but not as ready as me. You don’t want to miss it on Saturday night.
“The number one thing for me is to win this fight and show Keith Thurman that I’m ready for the rematch. There is nothing allowed but positive energy. We’re almost there. I’m definitely excited.
“Andre Berto is dangerous if you allow him to be. We do everything we can to make sure that doesn’t happen. I have no doubt in my mind that we won’t be in any danger on Saturday night.
“We saw during the Floyd fight that footwork can work against Andre Berto. Against Josesito Lopez we saw that you can box Berto, but you need to get out of the pocket. Against Victor Ortiz we saw that he got put down by Victor. The difference between Victor Ortiz and myself is that I’m a fighter who never stops. I’m coming after you.
“The jab will be a key to this fight. I can throw my jab a lot of different ways. You’ll see me using my jab a lot in this fight.
“Some people thought Garcia-Thurman lacked action, but I’m not worried about that for this one. I don’t condone boos. That’s just how I fight.”
JERMELL CHARLO
“I’m glad to finally have this opportunity. It’s been a long time coming. My coach has already scripted the way he wants this fight to go. I have to make it happen.
“I’m excited to announce that my brother Jermall will be working my corner. I’m really pumped to have him in there with me as my chief second for the first time.
“I don’t know what’s been happening with Charles Hatley’s team. But we’re here and we’re not going anywhere. I’ll never run from anybody.
“This is one of the best camps I’ve had in my life. I had some training in Los Angeles and then in Dallas with Derrick James. We’ve stepped it up in training working every day with Errol Spence.
“My brother and I aren’t getting the respect we deserve in this game. We’re still trying to prove a point and it’ll start on Saturday with this fight.
“This is the strongest and the fastest I’ve ever been. Hatley’s going to do what he’s got to do. We’ve got our team and I’m happy that my team is in this position.”
CHARLES HATLEY
“There’s a new sheriff in town. I’m thankful to everyone who got me this opportunity and made this happen. Now it’s party time. I’ve been working for this fight my whole life, not just for months.
“I’ve wanted Jermell for three years. There’s no other fight in boxing that I want more than this. We had a long camp and we never stopped working. I’m going to bring the best out of him and become the new champion.
“There’s nothing he can do to stop me from leaving the ring with that belt. I know I have all the skills. We’ve worked hard and I believe I have what it takes to beat Charlo and take his belt home.
“I’m going to give the fans a great show and give them something to remember. Once I clean Charlo off of the ground, I’ll get that respect.”
AMANDA SERRANO
“I’m extremely blessed to be in this position. I’m thankful to my whole team for getting me prepared and where I am right now. I trained really hard for this fight. Being a five-division world champion is a great accomplishment. I’m so ready for it.
“We struggled a little bit for this fight because it was for history. I left it in the ring every day. I want to be known as one of the best female fighters and one of the best Puerto Rican fighters in the history of the sport.
“I think our styles are going to match up well for the fans. I always want to leave the fans with something to talk about. Being in my hometown, it’s even more motivation to go put on a performance that everyone remembers.
“I’m glad that Santana took the challenge. It’s going to be a great war as long as it lasts. I had a war with Yazmin Rivas in January but I’m planning on making this an easier and quicker this time around.”
DAHIANA SANTANA
“I know that I’m going against a really good fighter who is a four-division champion. I’ve been training very hard to win this bantamweight title.
“I’ve trained very hard physically and mentally for this fight and I feel ready for a victory. I know that with the work we did in training, that I’ll be ready for anything Serrano brings into the ring.
“I’m thankful to SHOWTIME for airing a women’s fight and on Saturday we will give you a war at Barclays Center.”
JOSE MIGUEL BORREGO
“I’m very glad to have this opportunity. We’ve prepared very well and I know that me and my team are ready.
“I originally prepared for one opponent and now I’m facing someone I’m very familiar with so I think I will still be able to put on an explosive performance.”
JOHN DELPERDANG
“I’m really happy to be a part of this fight. I’m coming to win and I’m coming for the knockout. I know that a win puts me on a different level.
“Training camp has been incredible. We stayed ready this whole time and when the call came, we were ready to jump on it.”
RICHARDSON HITCHINS
“To be able to come back to the Barclays Center for a second time is an honor. Training camp was great and I’ve stayed in the gym. I’m ready to get back in there.
“There was no bigger stage than the Olympics in my eyes. Without Andre Berto, I would not be standing here as a 2016 Olympian and in the position I’m in as a pro.
“I hope everyone comes out for a great night. I’m going to put on a show and I know that all these other fighters are going to do the same.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“This is going to be another sensational show at Barclays Center. SHOWTIME is really on a roll and they just came out with another slate of great shows. I’m proud to work with them on this fight.
“This main event doesn’t need a lot of hype. Two of the best guys in the division fighting to get in there with Keith Thurman and prove who the man is. Shawn almost succeeded against Keith in a fight he thought he won. Berto is a champion and there is no quit in him. This is going to be a war in the ring on Saturday night.
“Barclays Center has become the capital of New York boxing and one of the best boxing venues in the country. That is not by accident, but by design. Brett Yormark is not only doing good fights, but a series of good fights. He’s making sure there is a constant flow of good boxing coming into the building. Brooklyn Boxing is something with a great deal of momentum and Saturday night is another great example of what Brooklyn Boxing is.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“This is another great Barclays Center event and another night of championship level boxing on SHOWTIME. That’s what we have been doing all year, that’s what Barclays Center does and that’s what Lou DiBella does.
“Borrego and Delperdang are making their television debuts, which is a big milestone in their career. Amanda Serrano is fighting to make history. No one has done what she’s trying to do. Charles Hatley is fighting for a world title, which is something he’s spent his whole career trying to do. But Jermell Charlo is driven just as much. He’s spent his career getting here and he is driven to hold onto his title.
“Berto and Porter have never been in a boring fight. They’re fighting to get back to the top of the mountain. There is plenty at stake. You may be tempted to overlook this card, but this will be one of the strongest cards of the year, and you shouldn’t miss it.”
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ABOUT BERTO vs. PORTER                     
Andre Berto vs. Shawn Porter is a WBC welterweight world title eliminator between former 147-pound world champions. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday April 22

from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event, undefeated super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo battles top rated challenger Charles Hatley, with televised coverage beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @AndreBerto, @ShowtimeShawnP, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing

Carlos Rosario takes on Josh Davis in headline bout on Friday, May 19th at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

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Amir Shabazz takes on Antowyan Aikens in a light heavyweight bout

Plus undefeated Tyrone Crawley, Jr.
David Gonzales battles Darius Ervin
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA (April 20, 2017) – On Friday night, May 19th, Carlos Rosario will take on Josh Davis in a scheduled eight-round lightweight bout that will headline a terrific night at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.

The show is promoted by King’s Promotions.
Rosario of Pennsauken, New Jersey, has a record of 7-1 with four knockouts, and has won seven consecutive since dropping his pro debut.
The 26 year-old is a three-year professional, and has wins over Victor Vasquez (4-1), Bobby Hornsby (8-1), and his last outing when he stopped Lance Williams on March 11 in Philadelphia.
Davis, also 26, fights out of Washington, D.C., and brings in a respectable record of 10-1 with four knockouts.
The six-year professional will be making his first start in 18 months.  Davis, who has won six straight is coming off a four round unanimous decision over Justin Lopez on November 12, 2015.
In the six-round co-feature, it will be a battle of  light heavyweight’s as Amir Shabazz (4-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on Antowyan Aikens (10-3-1, 1 KO) of Atlantic City.
Also in six-round bouts:
Tyrone Crawley, Jr (6-0) of Philadelphia will take on Juan Rodriguez (7-6, 5 KO’s) of Manasa, Virginia in a lightweight fight.
David Gonzales (8-2, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will look to get back in the win column when he battles Darius Ervin (4-1) of Los Angeles, California in a junior welterweight bout.
Marquis Taylor (5-1) of Houston, Texas will square off with Rafael Montalvo (3-3, 3 KO’s) of St. Clair, PA.
Antonio Allen (0-5) will take on Demetrius Williams (0-2) in a battle of Philadelphia based junior welterweights looking for their first win.
Rounding out the card will be a four round junior welterweight bout between Titos Gosalves of Philadelphia (0-1) and pro debuting Gerardo Martinez of Phoenixville, PA.
Tickets for this great night of boxing can be purchased at www.2300arena.com for $100, $75 and $50
boxing, CBS Boxing, CBS Sports Network

“Cancun Boxing” Tonight at 10 p.m. ET on  CBS Sports Network 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Former world champions Cristian Mijares &
Tomas Rojas battled in main event  
CANCUN, Mexico (April 20, 2017) – The second installment of the 2017 “Cancun Boxing” series, presented by Pepe Gomez Boxing in association with Neon Sports & Entertainment, will air tonight (Thursday night, April 20) in North America, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, on CBS Sports Network.
The event took place this past April 8th at Grand Oasis Cancun the Hotel Complex, Cancun`s ONLY Ultimate All-Inclusive Entertainment Resort, which hosts all series events.
Three-time world champion Cristian “Diamente” Mijares (55-8-2, 26 KOs) and former super flyweight titlist Tomas “Gusano” Rojas (48-14-1, 32 KOs) squared off in the 10-round main event in a showdown between a pair of veteran Mexican featherweights.
Undefeated Mexican bantamweight prospect Aaron “Ghost” Alameda (18-0, 10 KOs) stepped up in class to fight battle-tested Edgar “Power” Jimenez (22-12-2, 16 KOs), of Mexico, in the eight-round co-feature.
CBS Sports Network is available across the country through local cable, video and telco providers and via satellite on DirecTV Channel 221 and Dish Network Channel 158. For more information, including a full programming schedule and how to get CBS Sports Network, go to www.cbssportsnetwork.com
 
INFORMATION
 
Twitter:  @pepegomezcancun, @cancun_boxing, @Neonstarmedia
Instagram:  @pepegomez1

Facebook:  www.Facebook.com/pepigomezquiqui, www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media-378687919005532/
boxing

Former National Amateur champion and undefeated junior welterweight Kenneth Sims, Jr. is ready for Israel Villela this Saturday night at The Claridge in Atlantic City

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Keenan Smith – Edgar Gaebjan in main event

Also undefeated  Elijah Vines, Tyrell Wright, John Bauza, Donald Smith & Dylan Price
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Atlantic City, NJ (April 19, 2017)- Undefeated junior welterweight Kenneth Sims, Jr. will look to make it 12 in a row without a loss when he takes on tough Mexican Israel Villela in a six-round co-feature bout this Saturday night at The Claridge Hotel In Atlantic City.

The bout will be part of a ten-bout card promoted by GH3 Promotions and D and D Promotions.
In the main event, undefeated junior welterweight Keenan Smith (10-0, 4 KO’s) of Philadelphia takes on veteran Edgar Gabejan of the Philippines in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds.
Sims of Chicago, will be making his 2nd consecutive start on the boardwalk after his eight-round unanimous decision over Emmanuel Robles (15-1-1) on January 20th at Ballys.  That fight was part of a ShoBox: The New Generation card seen live on Showtime.
Sims got the call to take a “Stay Busy” fight, before he steps back up later in the Summer.
“I found out about this fight three weeks ago.  It is not a big deal, I already had been sparring, so I am in good shape and ready for Saturday,” said Sims.
In Villela, Sims has seen little, but not a lot of his opponent, but he will be ready for anything that Villela will bring to the ring.
“I saw a few Youtube videos, but I did not see a lot to get to a feel for him.  But I am an experienced fighter, and I just have to fight my fight.  I am not underestimating him, and I know he will be trying to win.”
In the fight with Robles, Sims fought well throughout, and gave a brief critique of his performance.
“I looked over the last fight, and I looked better watching it on television then I thought I did in the ring.  With that being said, I know I have things to work on, and I could have looked better.”
Sims is looking for a big performance on Saturday that will be a prelude to a busy Summer.
“It would be good to get a stoppage.  I am looking to come back May 13th in Louisiana, then a fight back on television.”
Appearing in six-round bouts will be:
Tyrell Wright (9-0-1, 6 KO’s) of Jersey City, NJ will face Dan Pasciolla (9-2-1) of Brick, New Jersey in a heavyweight bout.
In a battle of undefeated super lightweights, John Bauza (5-0, 2 KO’s) of North Bergen, NJ will fight Jesus Salas (1-0, 1 KO) of Puerto Rico
In four-round bouts:
Elijah Vines (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on James Robinson (4-7-4, 1 KO) of York, PA in a super welterweight bout.

Donald Smith (4-0, 3 KO’s) of Philadelphia will square off with Vincent Jennings (5-3, 4 KO’s) of Grand Rapids, MI in a super featherweight tussle.

Dylan Price (1-0, 1 KO) of Sicklerville, NJ will fight Chris Nelson (1-3) of Kentucky in a super flyweight bout.
Emmanuel Rodriguez of Newark, NJ will make his pro debut against Jaxel Marrero (1-7-2) of Puerto Rico in a bantamweight bout.
Tickets range from $50 – $150 and can be purchased by calling 856-842-7577
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

VIDEO: ANDRE BERTO & SHAWN PORTER DISCUSS “MUST WIN” WELTERWEIGHT ELIMINATOR THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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“Never count me out.  I always come back.” – Andre Berto

 

Click On The Link Below To Watch The SHOWTIME Sports® Feature

YOUTUBE: http://s.sho.com/2osOLjX

 

Former welterweight world champions Andre Berto and Shawn Porter meet in a “must win” crossroads fight this Saturday, live on SHOWTIME (9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  The winner in the WBC 147-pound eliminator earns a mandatory shot at unified welterweight champ Keith Thurman while Saturday’s loser, as Berto explains in this SHOWTIME Sports video feature, could “disappear into the darkness.”

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT as undefeated super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo battles top rated challenger Charles Hatley.  Four-time world champion Amanda Serrano aims for a record-setting fifth world title when she faces former champ Dahiana Santana for the vacant WBO Bantamweight World Championship in the featured bout of SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME® at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT. 

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Andre Berto vs. Shawn Porter Media Workout  Quotes & Photos

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Former World Champions Meet in Welterweight World Title Eliminator That Headlines a Premier Boxing Champions Event,Saturday, April 22 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Live on SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (April 19, 2017) – Former welterweight world champions Andre Bertoand Shawn Porter began fight week activities Wednesday as they hosted a media workout at the famed Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn in advance of their world title eliminator showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, this Saturday, April 22 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT and features super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo, who was in attendance atWednesday’s workout,defending his belt against top rated challenger Charles Hatley.
SHOWTIME EXTREME action begins at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT as four-time world champion Amanda Serrano looks to become the first female fighter and first Puerto Rican to win titles in five weight classes when she fights Dahiana Santana for a vacant 118-pound title.
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 visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Rounding out the group of fights participating in Wednesday’s workout were undefeated local prospects Julian Sosa and Richardson Hitchins, who will compete in separate bouts on Saturday night.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Gleason’s Gym:
ANDRE BERTO
“This is what we work hard to get to. All the weeks that we put into training camp have been tremendous. As athletes, we spend a lot of time trying to fine tune our craft for a reason. We’re looking to see the harvest on Saturday night.
“I really had a tremendous training camp. I tried to stay away from everything else as much as I can. I’m dialed-in right now.
“You’re always going to have people with you and against you in this sport. Our job is to work hard and do the best we can in the ring and give the fans a great show.
“My focus right now is on this fight night on Saturday. Everything that comes after it will take care of itself. I just have to make sure all my energy is used towards getting this win.
“There are a lot of great world champions out in camp with me and we all work hard and feed off of each other.
“I’ve been ready waiting for the call for a big fight and this came together and I couldn’t be happier. It’s going to be a great night.
“I took a little bit from his fight with Keith [Thurman]. We’ve seen the tape and we’ll try to use it logically. We’re focused and ready to go to work.”
SHAWN PORTER
“The fans here are real. The energy is always great. There’s so much history in this gym and in this city. It’s always an honor to be a part of it.
“We prepared for everything. We’re prepared for 12 rounds. We’re prepared to throw the right punches to slow him down and knock him down. We’re prepared to outbox him or to be aggressive and take the fight to him.
“This is a very important fight for me. I’ve watched Berto since the amateurs and on into the pros. I’ve seen him do it all. I’ve seen the best of his career and the worst. I’m going to do what it takes to end up on the right side of this.
“People have definitely seen a great deal of my talent in the last fight with Thurman. People know what I can do in the ring but I’m always working on taking it to another level.
“I don’t feel pressure to make this an exciting fight. I love that people are looking forward to watching me fight. When I do what I do, people know that it’s going to be exciting. I never have to worry about that part.
“I was at the Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia and I thought that it could have been me that night. But I’ve reminded myself that my time is coming and this is the first step towards that.
“I’m going to let Keith Thurman know that I’m coming for him. I’m going to make sure that he knows that I want him. I’m going to do everything I can to get that fight after I get past this one.”
JERMELL CHARLO
“There are some things I have in my arsenal that the world hasn’t seen yet. I’m going to show everyone a little bit more than last time.
“I’m ready to go 12 rounds. I’m excited about this fight. I’ve picked up a lot of things in training and I’m ready to shine.
“I want to make a statement with a knockout, but if it doesn’t happen, I’m ready to do what I have to do. I can’t put too much pressure on myself, I just have to take care of business.
“From growing up in the boxing world, I’ve had to slowly realize how big of a stage I have. I try to help out young fighters on how to get to this point.
“Charles Hatley is a good fighter. He comes with pressure and he likes fighting. He’s got a good style and he can bob and weave and be slick.
“I’m excited about fighting in Brooklyn for the first time. Everyone knows the fans in New York are great because they’re real and they know their stuff. I’m hoping to give them something to remember.
“I’ve studied this sport a lot. My size is going to have a big effect on him. My size is going to wear on him as we get to the later rounds. I’ve experienced a lot of things in the world of boxing.”
JULIAN SOSA
“Training camp went very well. We added a few things to camp based off of the last fight. I felt like there were a few flaws that I needed to correct. We had extra strength and conditioning, more miles on the road and some sparring with more advanced competitors. I can’t wait until fight night.
“Having guys like Richardson Hitchins and Jonathan Alonso in the gym with me is great. They’re hungry fighters just like me. It gives me motivation, but we’re also competing. We all want to do better than each other. I love the atmosphere.
“Being able to perform at Barclays Center in my hometown in Brooklyn is really humbling. This is a great platform for me. All I can do to show my appreciation is train really hard and when fight night comes, I just have to shine.”
RICHARDSON HITCHINS
“My first fight was more than a dream come true. But I’m looking to steal the show every time I’m in the ring. This is going to be another special performance. I’m going to put on a show.
“I’ve had a great training camp. I didn’t really take any time off after my last fight. I feel strong. I’m grateful that my team has me busy and I’m ready to keep going.
“It feels good to be fighting in front of my hometown fans once again. I love seeing everybody come out and support me. It’s going to be a great fight on Saturday night.
“I grew up with guys like Julian so having them in my professional camp is great. We’ve been doing this forever and just motivating each other to get better. We have fun every day in the gym.”
#          #          #
ABOUT BERTO vs. PORTER                     
Andre Berto vs. Shawn Porter is a WBC welterweight world title eliminator between former 147-pound world champions. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday April 22 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event, undefeated super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo battles top rated challenger Charles Hatley, with televised coverage beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @AndreBerto, @ShowtimeShawnP, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Roc Nation

GUILLERMO RIGONDEAUX VS. MOISES FLORES WBA SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP ADDED TO ANDRE WARD VS. SERGEY KOVALEV PAY-PER-VIEW UNDERCARD

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WARD-KOVALEV 2: “THE REMATCH” SET FOR SATURDAY, JUNE 17, 2017

AT MANDALAY BAY EVENTS CENTER, LAS VEGAS

PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW®

 

NEW YORK, NY (April 19, 2017) – Reigning WBA World Super Bantamweight Champion Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux (17-0, 11 KOs) will face WBA interim titleholder Moises “Chucky” Flores (25-0, 17 KOs) in a long-awaited mandatory 12-round WBA title defense that will tarnish one fighter’s perfect record. Rigondeaux vs. Flores has officially been added to the Pay-Per-View undercard of Ward-Kovalev 2: “The Rematch” at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas on Saturday, June 17. The championship event, presented by Corona Extra, will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

 

“I would like to thank Roc Nation Sports, Caribe Promotions and HBO for the opportunity to fight on the biggest Pay-Per-View card of the year. It will be a night of great boxing that fans will not want to miss out on. It’s going to be a chance to show HBO what they want to see. Some say I’m not exciting but it’s not my fault that once my opponents feel my power, they start running and stop throwing punches. Regardless of that, I’m going to give them what they want. I will be standing in the middle of the ring toe-to-toe and putting on a show for the fans. This is where I’ll show the world what my fans got to see in my last fight in the UK against [James] Dickens,” said Rigondeaux. “I want to thank Moises Flores for having the courage to step in the ring with me and accepting the mandatory challenge unlike many great fighters in my division. Moises is an exciting Mexican fighter who will bring a fight. I will be ready to exhibit why I am one of the best pound-for-pound boxers and the world’s best at 122 pounds. I’m ready to give fans the best fight out there, and the best is to come the evening of June 17.”

 

“I’m very excited to have my world title fight with Guillermo Rigondeaux rescheduled for Saturday, June 17 on HBO Pay-Per-View,” said Flores. “I’d like to thank my team at Probox Management and TGB Promotions along with HBO for providing this opportunity. I never stopped my preparations from the original date and look forward to making the Mexican fans proud when I defeat the great Rigondeaux.”

 

“Roc Nation Sports is thrilled to add Guillermo Rigondeaux’s championship defense against Moises Flores to the Pay-Per-View undercard of Ward-Kovalev 2: ‘The Rematch’,” said Roc Nation President & Chief of Branding and Strategy Michael R. Yormark. “We know these two champions are ready and eager to put on a big performance on boxing’s biggest stage and undoubtedly, ahead of the most anticipated fight of the year.”

 

“TGB Promotions is proud of this world title opportunity for Moises ‘Chucky’ Flores as he takes on one of the premier fighters in the sport, Guillermo Rigondeaux,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Chucky is well prepared and looking forward to making the Mexican fans proud of their new World Champion on June 17.”

 

Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux (17-0, 11 KOs), was one of the most celebrated amateur boxers in Cuba before defecting and making his professional debut on May 22, 2009 in Miami, Florida. High expectations had no ill effect on Rigondeaux as he tore through his next five opponents. On November 13, 2010, in just his seventh pro fight, Rigondeaux faced Ricardo Cordoba for the vacant interim WBA World Super Bantamweight title and left the ring with the belt after scoring a split decision victory. Rigondeaux turned his attention to supremacy in the 122-pound division and accomplished what many considered the unthinkable by knocking out WBA World Super Bantamweight Champion Rico Ramos on January 20, 2012, becoming a world champion in fewer than 10 professional bouts. On April 13, 2013 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, Rigondeaux scored his biggest victory to date by defeatingWBO and Ring Magazine World Champion and 2012 Fighter of the Year Nonito Donaire. Rigondeaux came away with the victory by unanimous decision after out landing and out punching Donaire throughout the fight to unify titles. In November of 2015, Roc Nation Sports announced that it had signed Rigondeaux to an exclusive promotional agreement and featured him on the HBO Pay-Per-View undercard of the Miguel Cotto vs. Canelo Alvarez mega-fight at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, where he defeated veteran Drian Francisco via a 10-round unanimous decision. Prior to beating Francisco, Rigondeaux was stripped of his title belts due to inactivity, but remained the WBA champion in recess. In May of 2016, Roc Nation Sports announced that Rigondeaux was reinstated of his WBA belt ahead of a 12-round WBA World Super Bantamweight championship showdown against number 13 rated WBA super bantamweight contender Jazza Dickens on July 16 at the Cardiff Ice Arena in Wales. In his first ever appearance in the United Kingdom, Rigondeaux gave fans a thrilling knockout against Dickens. The southpaw landed a big left hook, shattering Dickens’s jaw, halting the fight in the second round with a referee’s decision. Rigondeaux will be raring to go on June 17 in his title defense against interim champion Moises Flores.

 

Moises “Chucky” Flores (25-0, 17 KOs) learned the fight game growing up in Guadalajara, Mexico, and spent the early years of his professional career building up his résumé in his home country. Now established as a title contender at 122 pounds, Flores looks to climb to the top of the division with his considerable talent. Flores is exceptionally tall for his weight class, measuring in at 5 feet 9 inches. As such, he tends to have a reach advantage over most of his opponents, although Flores isn’t one to merely fire punches from a distance and box from the outside. He likes to mix it up, and his record reflects that, with most of his opponents going down by knockout. Flores made his pro debut in August 2008 with a second round knockout of Oswaldo Salgado in Guadalajara, Mexico. He fought exclusively in Mexico over the first six years of his career and made quick work of most of his opponents. Flores made his U.S. debut in September 2014, winning a six round unanimous decision over Pablo Batres in Mesquite, Texas. He then gained a seventh round technical knockout of Mexican veteran Mario Macias in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in November 2014. That victory set up a 122-pound title shot against interim WBA World Super Bantamweight Champion Oscar Escandon in Carson, California, in April 2015. In an electrifying, all-action brawl, Flores earned a split decision to win the title. In his last two fights, Flores was able to defend the interim WBA World Super Bantamweight title against Luis Emanuel Cusolito, while also adding the IBO World Super Bantamweight title against Paulus Ambunda. Flores looks forward to claiming the full rights to the WBA World Super Bantamweight title on June 17 when he faces current champion Guillermo Rigondeaux in a 12-round championship showdown.

 

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Ward-Kovalev 2: “The Rematch,” a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA Light Heavyweight World Championships, is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Main Events, Andre Ward Promotions, Krusher Promotions and Corona Extra, sponsored by Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, and Powered by Monster. The championship event takes place Saturday, June 17 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Tickets for Ward-Kovalev 2: “The Rematch” are available on axs.com and at the Mandalay Bay Events Center box office.

 

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