Category Archives: boxing

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR TRIPLEHEADER TOMORROW/FRIDAY, LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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Unbeaten Welterweight Taras Shelestyuk Meets Jimmy Herrera,

Constantin Bejenaru, Steve Bujaj Clash in Collision of Undefeated Cruiserweights, Brazil’s Vitor Jones Freitas takes on Indio’s Manuel Mendez

 

 From Omega Products Event Center in Corona, Calif.

 

Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

CORONA, Calif. (Nov. 3, 2016) – The six fighters who’ll compete this Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation made weight on Thursday for the live SHOWTIME tripleheader (10:30 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Omega Products Event Center in Corona.

 

Undefeated 2012 Olympic Games Bronze Medalist Taras “Real Deal” Shelestyuk (14-0, 9 KOs), of Los Angeles, will make his main event debut when he faces Jimmy Herrera (15-3-1, 8 KOs), of Chicago, Ill., in the 10-round featured attraction.  Shelestyuk, a member of the vaunted 2012 Ukraine Olympic team, is ranked No. 9 by the WBO and No. 13 in the WBA.  Herrera has defeated unbeaten prospects in four of last nine fights and is 8-1-1 overall since July 2012.

 

In the ShoBox co-feature, undefeated cruiserweights Constantin Bejenaru (11-0, 4 KOs, 0-1-1 in World Series of Boxing), of Catskill, N.Y. by way of Moldova, and Steve “Superman” Bujaj (16-0-1, 11 KOs), of New York, will collide in a 10-rounder.

 

Rounding out the telecast, unbeaten lightweight Vitor Jones Freitas (12-0, 1 ND, 6 KOs), of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, will be opposed by local fan favorite Manuel Mendez (12-1-2, 8 KOs), of Indio, Calif., in an eight-round bout.  Freitas, 23, is the nephew of popular former two-time lightweight world champion and Brazilian legend Acelino “Popo” Freitas.

 

Tickets for the event promoted by Thompson Boxing, Banner Promotions, Hitz Boxing and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing are priced at $100 (ringside) and $70 (reserved). Tickets are available for purchase on the day of the event (Friday) at the Omega Products Event Center will call booth beginning at 3:30 PM PT. The Omega Products Event Center is located at 1681 California Ave., Corona, CA 92881.

 

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS:

Welterweights (Main Event) – 10 Rounds

Taras Shelestyuk – 146½ Pounds

Jimmy Herrera – 146¼ Pounds

 

Cruiserweights (Co-Feature) – 10 Rounds

Constantin Bejenaru – 198¼ Pounds

Steve Bujaj – 197½ Pounds

 

Lightweights (Telecast Opener) – 8 Rounds

Vitor Jones Freitas – 134¼ Pounds

Manuel Mendez – 135 Pounds

 

FINAL QUOTES:

 

TARAS SHELESTYUK

 

“Herrera is a good fighter, a tough fighter. I know he has defeated some good fighters like Mike Jones, who was a top fighter who’d been off a couple years. But I’m 100 percent ready. I expect a very tough and exciting fight but I expect to be much stronger and smarter.

 

“I’m excited for all the attention this fight and I are getting. I’ve always known that fans in America have known me but maybe now more than before. I think in the next year, I can become even more well-known.

 

“I’ve been working on strength and becoming more powerful. I think my boxing skills are already good, but my speed and power are better than before. I feel in sparring that I’m punching harder.

 

“I like to work the body. I like the fact you land enough of them early, they take a toll late. That’s one thing good about fighting as a pro. I feel good about my career; I hope to be fighting some of the best fighters in the division within a year.

 

“I’m sure Herrera will probably try and come at me; there’s no chance he can beat me at boxing. I like guys who come forward. They are good for me because I can counter and move side to side. And I’m ready to fight on the inside if necessary.

 

“I know I can improve on my last ShoBox fight. I made it closer than it should have been.  If we had it over again I think I maybe stop him just because of what we’re been working on in the gym.

 

“Sparring with Shane Mosley has been huge for me. He’s such a great fighter. When I was younger, I’d watch his fights. Now we spar.  He’s older but still very good. He knows all the tricks and gives me a lot of advice that helps me in and out of the ring. Everything he’s said to me, I’ve tried to apply.”

 

JIMMY HERRERA:

 

“I’ve been working a full two months for this fight so I’m ready. This is going to be a very good test for both of us, a great fight. He’s a good European boxer, another unbeaten for me. But I don’t feel like I’m coming in as the underdog at all. He’s got his strengths, I’ve got my strengths.

 

“There has to be a purpose for every punch. Each has to count. If he opens up and makes a mistake, I have to take advantage. I need to get him out of his rhythm early, force him out of his comfort zone and make him fight my fight.

 

“I’ll be the aggressor. But I’d love if he was the aggressor. I just think, though, knowing him, he’s going to try to box and win the rounds that way. I work all the time coming forward and that’s what I’ll do tomorrow.

 

“A kid from Chicago, like me, it’s hard to get anywhere in boxing without connections, so finally after fighting so long without a manager, I signed with Cameron Dunkin. I always knew I could be a good boxer, but never figured I’d be a boxer. But look at me know, I’m fighting on SHOWTIME and this fight couldn’t be coming along at a better time.”

 

CONSTANTIN BEJENARU:

 

“I feel your amateur career gives you a good foundation, like a beginner, but once you turn pro it’s a total different game. It doesn’t matter who has more experience as an amateur. As professionals, we all have to do our jobs here.

 

“I don’t know Bujaj, but I saw his fight with Junior Wright so I know he is tough.

 

“I feel this is a big step for me. He’s 16-0, a good fighter who can punch or box, and this is for a belt. This a good fight for both of us.

“I work hard for every fight and this was no exception. We know we have to pay attention to detail. This is a dangerous guy but I am very confident.

 

“I definitely don’t expect an easy fight. I have to press the action. I need to make him as uncomfortable as I can.

 

“I don’t have a lot of pro knockouts but boxing isn’t just about power. Boxing is intelligence and mental; it’s not just a street fight for me.

 

“This is my second fight on ShoBox. I’m so happy to be back again after that last win over Zubov. The goal is to keep busy, come back early next year and then sometime by next year be ready to fight for a major title of some type.’’

 

STEVE BUJAJ:

 

“I’m looking forward to this fight, my first on network TV, to see where I’m at. The way I feel, I’ve got everything to win, everything to lose. This either pushes me to the next level, or I stay where I’m at.

 

“I’m ready for any kind of fight. I’m a versatile fighter and I will have the height advantage.

 

“I feel ready now for the bigger fights, the additional exposure on SHOWTIME, the ratings, the titles, all of it. But I definitely will be even more after Friday.

 

“I don’t feel this is going 10 rounds. I feel I’ll break him down and eventually stop him. I feel I’ve got the skills and definitely the heart. I’m healthy and ready to go.

 

“I saw his last fight on ShoBox, and thought it was pretty decent. He’s pretty short for a cruiserweight. Although we’re both from New York, I’d never heard of him before.

 

“Camp went awesome with lots of sparring. In Las Vegas. I trained with Mayweather fighters like Ronald Gavril, Badou Jack and Caleb Plant. It’s been four years since I’ve fought a left-hander but I do not consider it factor.’’

 

VITOR JONES FREITAS:

 

“I thank God and both my uncles for helping me get to where I am, for teaching me and for guiding me in every step of my life and in boxing. Without their influence and what they’ve done for me since I was 11, I feel I’d be dead today.

 

“I’m very excited about this fight and the opportunity to fight better guys. This for me is all about taking advantage of the opportunity.

 

“I’m getting more and more experience. My goal is to work hard and, like my Uncle Acelino, make good fights and become a world champion“

 

“We’ve studied Mendez’ fighting style and have a lot of respect for his trainer, Joel Diaz. I know Mendez is very strong and comes forward. I don’t know if he likes it when his opponents attack from the sides but I’m ready to fight him on the sides, head-on and toe-to-toe.”

 

MANUEL MENDEZ:

 

“This is my ninth fight with Joel and we know each other very well. Through the bad and good, he’s been there for me.

 

“I’m sure Freitas has confidence in his ability but like any other undefeated fighter he does well until he hits the wall, which is what Joel wants me to make him do. He wants me to punish him, take my time.

 

“I feel have I have natural power, can take a punch and have heart. Hit me as much as you want, but watch out once I connect and turn things around. My goal always is to break them down, starting with the body.

 

“I may not have the pedigree of some of these guys, but I’m learning defense, how to pace myself, staying poised and most importantly, just how to fight. The more experience, the more mature you become.

 

“Tomorrow I just want to be me and listen to Joel in the corner. I wouldn’t want to be standing in from of me. If he wants to stand and bang, let’s do it. I guarantee he’s the one going back after the first few moments.”

 

# # #

boxing, CBS Boxing, Las Vegas

Demond Brock’s arduous trip leads to Nationally televised fight vs. NABA US Lightweight champ Reynaldo Blanco 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 18th Live on CBS Sports Network
From the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center
LAS VEGAS (November 3, 2016) – The remarkable journey of Demond “Body Shot” Brock, from prison into the boxing ring, has led him to a 10-round main event showdown Friday night, November 18, with North American Boxing Association (NABA) United States lightweight champion Reynaldo Blanco (13-2, 7 KOs) in the latest installment of the popular “Knockout Night at the D” series, airing (9 p.m. PT / 12 a.m. ET) on CBS Sports Network live from inside the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center tent.
The “Knockout Night at the D” series, presented by the D Las Vegasand Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions.
Hall of Fame announcers Jim “J.R.” Ross and Al Bernstein will call the action from ringside, along with roving reporter Sean Wheelock, on CBS Sports Network.  Known for introducing the top stars of professional wrestling to the ring for 20 years, Justin Roberts will join the legendary CBS Sports Network broadcast team in Las Vegas for the Nov. 18 show to enhance the entrances of the “Knockout Night at the D” boxing stars of tomorrow.
Brock (12-3-1, 4 KOs), fighting out of New Orleans, learned how to box in the Louisiana State Penitentiary, where he was sentenced at the age of 15 for armed robbery. He served a 14 ½-year sentenced and he ended up with a 39-1 record with 17 knockouts.  Upon his release, Brock won the Ringside Tournament and he was the No. 1 ranked welterweight in the United States. Brock reached the quarterfinals of the U.S. Olympic Boxing Trials and finished his amateur career with an outstanding 54-3 record.  He left prison a completely different person; much calmer and cerebral, which he totally attributes to becoming a boxer.
(L-R) — Brock & Jones
(photo by Manny “Mitts” Murillo / RJJ Boxing Promotions)

In his last fight (June 10), Brock defeated previously unbeaten Chuy Gutierrez (14-0-1), headlining a “Knockout Night at the D” show at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, retaining his World Boxing Council (WBC) United States lightweight title in his first title defense.  Brock, 35, originally captured his title belt in 2015, by way of an 8-round unanimous decision over

Oscar Valenzuela (9-1-1).
Living legend and 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. has been training Brock in Pensacola, Florida, for his Nov. 18th fight with Blanco.  “I love Demond’s energy and his will to learn,” Jones noted. “He has been very enthusiastic, doing everything asked of him and more, each day in the gym.  Everybody will see what a talent Demond is November 18th.   He has a lot of upside in this sport and the heart of a champion.”
“Having an opportunity to train with somebody like Roy Jones, Jr. is a great opportunity for me,” Brock said from training camp.  “I’m learning new things every day from one of the greatest boxers of all-time. This is truly a blessing and I’m grateful to have everybody on my team working so hard to make me the best I can be.”
Former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Latino junior middleweight title-holder Daniel “El Duro” Rosario Cruz (11-1, 10 KOs), a legitimate knockout artist from Puerto Rico, meets past Mexico welterweight champion an proven upset specialist Norberto Gonzalez (22-8, 13 KOs) in the 8-round co-feature.
Rising Las Vegas junior lightweight Randy Moreno (6-0, 5 KOs) steps up in class in the television opener in his first scheduled 6-round bout against Mexican veteran Daniel Perales (7-5-1, 4 KOs)
Keeping with its goal to showcase young talent based in Las Vegas, junior flyweight Marina “Rocky” Ramirez (2-0), fighting out of Idaho, and pro-debuting cruiserweight Jason Beauchamp are slated to be fighting in separate 4-round bouts.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $1,000.00 VIP booth (includes 15 admissions), $50.00 VIP ringside, $25.00 and $15.00 general admission, are on sale at www.Ticketmaster.com or www.DLVEC.com.  Taxes and fees apply to all sold tickets.
Doors open at 6:00 p.m. PT with the opening bout scheduled at 7:00 p.m. PT.
The “Knockout Night at the D” series was developed in partnership with the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center and Neon Star Media.
 
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @thedlasvegas, @dlvEventsCenter, @DerekJStevens, @BoxingatheDLV, @RoyJonesJrBoxing
Instagram: @dlvec, @thedlasvegas, @RoyJonesJrBoxing
Follow these fighters on Twitter:  @bodyshot brock and @_randymoreno
RIVAL BOXING GEAR & EQUIPMENT is the official apparel and gloves partner for the “Knockout Night at the D” series.  www.rivalboxing.com, @rivalboxinggear
boxing, charity

Undefeated World Champion Danny Garcia to host canned food drive this Friday

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THE CHAMP FIGHTS HUNGER THIS FRIDAY

Danny Garcia to fight Samuel Vargas on Nov. 12 at The Liacouras Center

PHILADELPHIA (November 3, 2016) – This Friday undefeated world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia will host a canned food drive in an effort to fight hunger at the Xfinity Store (3903 Aramingo Ave.) in Philadelphia.
Garcia will be host the food drive beginning at 4pm and will be at the store until 6pm
Garcia, who will meet Samuel Vargas in a 10-round welterweight bout on Saturday, November 12 at the Liacouras Center, has teamed up during this promotion with Philabundance, the region’s largest hunger relief organization, to arrange a regional food drive, collecting most-needed items, such as tuna and vegetables. Fans have been encouraged to drop off canned goods at the Liacouras Center (1776 N Broad St) and the DSG Boxing Gym (3731 Jasper St). Additionally, $10 from each ticket sold has been donated and will provide 20 meals per ticket for people in need.
WHO:     Danny Garcia, undefeated welterweight champion

WHAT:   Danny Garcia will meet with his fans as he hosts a canned food drive 

for those in an area of need.
WHERE: Xfinity Store
3903 Aramingo Ave.
Philadelphia, PA.
WHEN:  Friday, November 4th at 4pm – 6 pm
Tickets for the live event on November 12th, which is promoted by DSG Promotions and King’s Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $75, $50 and $35 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit LiacourasCenter.com/events or call 800-298-4200.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @DannySwift, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports @KingsBoxing_ and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. Follow the conversation using #fight4philly. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Roc Nation, women's boxing

Claressa Shields Announces Opponent for Kovalev-Ward

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Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields took to social media today to announce the opponent for her much anticipated pro debut on the lead-off freeview telecast of Kovalev-Ward “Pound For Pound” on Saturday, Nov. 19 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Shields is set to face decorated fellow American Franchon Crews in a four-round middleweight bout, with each round timed at two-minutes. This will not be the first time the two have faced off. In their first matchup Shields, then a 16 year old, upset Crews, the top-ranked American women middleweight, during the 2012 Olympic Trials, the first U.S. team trials for women’s boxing. Crews will also be making her professional debut.

 

Fans can catch the freeview telecast which includes the live Shields vs. Crews bout, beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT on the Pay-Per-View events channel prior to the official telecast, and to be announced cable, satellite, and telco channels. The freeview will also be available through livestreaming on HBO Boxing’s YouTube channel. Tickets for Nov. 19 are available at AXS.com and the T-Mobile Arena Box Office.

 

Claressa Shields Twitter: https://twitter.com/Claressashields/status/794192939647844353

Roc Nation Twitter: https://twitter.com/RocNation/status/794193211556294656

 

boxing

Attendees Announced for Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Pre-Fight Fundraiser

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“Night With Boxing Legends” NVBHOF Charity Fundraiser
 
LAS VEGAS, NV (November 2, 2016) – Attendees for the November 4, 2016, “Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame” Pre-Fight Fundraiser, taking place after the Manny Pacquiao vs. Jessie Vargas weigh-in, have been announced.
The Pre-Fight “Night with Boxing Legends” fundraiser dinner will take place at Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar, located close to the Thomas & Mack Center.  Ferraro’s will provide great food, cocktails & a beautiful atmosphere.  Two tickets to the Manny Pacquiao vs. Jesse Vargas fight will be auctioned off at the event.  All proceeds will go to help boxing organizations in Las Vegas.  Don’t miss your chance to support a great cause and meet several Boxing Legends in this intimate setting.
Each ticket, priced at $75 will include several selections of Ferraro’s Family Recipes of appetizers and one Beer or Wine cocktail.
Below is the list of boxing icons scheduled to present:
Badou Jack – Current WBC Super-Middleweight World Champion
Joel Casamayor – Former Super-Featherweight and Lightweight World Champion
James “Quick” Tillis – Former Heavyweight World Title Challenger
Mike McCallum – Former Light Middleweight, Middleweight and Light Heavyweight Champion
Shawn Porter – Former Welterweight World Champion
Layla McCarter – Multiple Division Women’s World Champion
Jorge Linares – Current WBC/WBA Lightweight World Champion
Rances “Kid Blast” Barthelemy – Current IBF Lightweight World Champion
Sharif “The Lion” Bogere – Former Lightweight World Title Challenger
Beibut Shumenov – Current WBA Cruiserweight World Champion
Leon Spinks – Former 2-time Heavyweight World Champion
Christy Martin – Former Women’s Super-Welterweight World Champion
Mark ‘Too Sharp’ Johnson – Former Multiple Division World Champion
Jeremy J-Flash Nichols – Undefeated Rising Start and Welterweight Sensation
Devin Haney – Undefeated Rising Star and Featherweight Sensation
Ashley Theophane – Former Super-Lightweight World Title Challenger
Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant – Undefeated Rising Start and Middleweight Sensation
Kevin Newman – Undefeated Rising Start and Super-Middleweight Sensation
Mikayla Nebel – Women’s Bantamweight Boxer
‘King’ David Sample – Former Lightweight World Title Challenger
Skipper Kelp – Former Welterweight World Title Contender
Tony Weeks – World Renowned Boxing Referee
Kenny Bayless – World Renowned Boxing Referee
Space is limited so be sure to get your tickets in advance to secure access. Please print your confirmation of purchase and bring it to the door for entry. Your purchase helps support the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame, a non-profit organization.  Once your tickets are purchased, there are no refunds.  All media members planning to attend please contact Jon Hait at jhshark@aol.com.
WHO:         Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame, boxing champs and professionals
WHAT:        Pre-fight fundraiser after the Manny Pacquiao vs. Jesse Vargas weight-in
 
WHY:          Fundraising event to help charitable boxing organizations
WHEN:       November 4, 2016 from 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
 
WHERE:     Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar
                    Location: 4480 Paradise Rd. Las Vegas, TX 89169 + 

                    Tickets $75 – 

For Media Credentials Contact:                    For Information And Sponsorship Opportunities Contact:
Media Coordinator Jon Hait                             Chief Executive Officer Michelle Corrales-Lewis
Email: jhshark@aol.com                                  Email: michelle@nvbhof.com
Phone: (702) 277-1020                                    Phone: 702-3-NVBHOF (702-368-2463)
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Q&A WITH STEVE “SUPERMAN” BUJAJ

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Cruiserweight Faces Fellow Unbeaten Constantin Bejenaru In Co-Feature on ShoBox: The New Generation TripleheaderThis Friday, Nov. 4, Live on SHOWTIME®

Welterweight Taras Shelestyuk Risks Perfect Record Against Jimmy Herrera in Main Event; Brazil’s Vitor Jones FreitasTakes on Indio’s Manuel Mendez in Opening Bout

From Omega Products Event Center in Corona, Calif.
Tickets on Sale Now
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CORONA, Calif. (Nov. 2, 2016) — Undefeated ultra-confident cruiserweight Steve “Superman” Bujaj (16-0-1, 11 KOs), of Westchester, N.Y., chimes in before his important 10-round bout with fellow unbeaten Constantin Bejenaru (11-0, 3 KOs, 0-1-1 in the World Series of Boxing), of Brooklyn, N.Y., in the middle match of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader this Friday, Nov. 4, from the Omega Products Event Center in Corona, Calif.
Bujaj (pronounced “Boo-ha”), 26, has won four in a row, including his last two by knockout, since boxing a split 10-round draw in a slugfest with then-undefeated three-time Chicago Golden Gloves champion Junior Wright (10-0) in May 2014. A two-time New York Golden Gloves champion, Bujah, who’ll be fighting on ShoBox the first time, is coming off a first-round TKO over previously undefeated Sergio Ramirez (11-0) on June 11

Bejenaru (pronounced “bay-zhin-nah-ROO”) is making his second ShoBox start. In his debut last April 15, the native of Ungheni, Moldova, scored a unanimous eight-round decision over previously unbeaten Alexey Zubov (10-0), a former Russian amateur champion and seven-time European amateur champion. Southpaw Bejenaru boxed on the Romanian national team for 10 years and was a nine-time national champion.

Here is What Bujaj said:

What do you know about Bejenaru and what are your thoughts going in?

“I know he’s undefeated, 11-0 and a lefty, but I don’t believe he’s on my level. I think I’m a different class fighter and will be able to show it on Friday.”

What kind of fight do you expect?

“I don’t really have any expectations. When I get in there, I make my adjustments, and then I start breaking him down.”

What is the key to winning? What are your advantages?

“My best advantage is my experience. I’ve fought 10 rounds before. This is his first time. I believe that I’m more skilled than he is, and I believe that I have more heart and just think I have the edge all around.”

On fighting on ShoBox the first time?

“I’m very excited and grateful for the opportunity that has been given me. I’m ready to go out and perform and show the world what I’m all about — and that is being one of the top guys in the cruiserweight division.”

Your opinion on the cruiserweight division?

“The cruiserweight division is a good division with a lot of good fighters. I feel like it will get more exposure in the future because there are so many talented fighters and good fights that can happen. I’m looking forward to being a part some of the big fights and making some noise.”

What would a win on ShoBox mean to you?

“A win on SHOWTIME would be really huge, but mostly it would keep me going.”

Are they making a mistake fighting you?

“I don’t think he made a mistake, but I refuse to lose this fight. I’m gonna give it my all. He’s not on my level and I’m gonna prove it. I’m gonna fight my ass off.”

On his slugfest with former world title challenger Wright?
“I was winning the fight but I broke my jaw in the fourth round. I had a bad mouthpiece, a cheap one. I never knew mouthpieces needed to be fitted. The surgeon told me if I’d had a pro mouthpiece, I wouldn’t have had a problem.
“I still believe anybody else would have quit in that fight. I was in a lot of pain, I couldn’t close my mouth because the jaw was broke, I was spitting out blood. But I hung in there despite the jaw.

“I had him out on his feet in the last half-minute or so but the referee stopped the fight to give him time to tape up one of the laces on his glove. That gave him time to recover. If the ref hadn’t stopped it when he did, I feel I would have knocked him out.”

On his career?

“I had to work hard for my career. I don’t have a padded record. I do not have it as easy as most in their career. I don’t have a big-time promoter, and I’m not pampered. I’ve fought tough guys throughout my career but I’ve learned a lot and have no regrets. But I feel it’s time for me to step up. After I win Friday on ShoBox, a lot of doors should start opening up me.”
New Nickname?

“I’ve been known as ‘Superman’my whole career but I’m thinking of changing it to “Steel.” The Wright fight proved a lot of me, and I learned a lot. I didn’t quit. I’m very tough and strong-minded, made of ‘steel.'”
Bujaj vs. Bejenaru is scheduled for 10 rounds and will be part of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). The main event will feature undefeated welterweight Taras Shelestyuk (14-0, 9 KO’s) taking on upset-minded Jimmy Herrera (15-3-1, 8 KO’s). Opening up the broadcast will feature Unbeaten lightweight Vitor Jones Freitas (12-0, 1 ND, 6 KOs), of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, will be opposed by local fan favorite Manuel Mendez (12-1-2, 8 KOs), of Indio, Calif., in an eight-round bout in the opening bout of the telecast. Freitas, 23, is the nephew of popular former two-time lightweight world champion and Brazilian legend Acelino “Popo” Freitas.

Tickets for the event promoted by Banner Promotions, Thompson Boxing, Hitz Boxing and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing are priced at $100 (ringside), $70 (reserved) and $50 (general admission) and can be purchased by calling (714) 935-0900.
Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 67 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.
boxing

Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev
Credit: Craig Bennett/Main Events

 

Click Here for Photos – Credit Craig Bennett/Main Events

 

Oxnard, California:          Yesterday, WBO, WBA and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-0-1, 26 KOs) held an open workout for members of the media in advance of his upcoming “Pound For Pound” showdown on November 19 against Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (30-0, 15 KOs) at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and distribute live by HBO Pay-Per-View. Also in attendance were Curtis “The Cerebral Assassin” Stevens (28-5, 21 KOs) who will take on James “The King” De La Rosa (23-4, 13 KOs) for the WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Title and Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk (11-0, 9 KOs) who will face Isaac “Golden Boy” Chilemba (24-4-2, 10 KOs) for the NABF Light Heavyweight Title on the Kovalev-Ward HBO Pay-Per-View telecast.

Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev

WBO, WBA, and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion

Kovalev:      “I’m excited and everything is going good. I’m waiting for this day, November 19, and I am ready to fight.”

 

SK:              “I don’t have anything personal about him (Ward). I should to win this fight, I only have to prove (to) myself who I am. I am fighting for me first of all, and after this really for boxing fans. This is my boxing career since 11 years old and right now Andre Ward (is) in my way. And he wants to get my titles but I’m still alive.”

 

SK:              “I don’t have any plans for each fight, just get into the ring and do my job. I must be ready for everything what he (Ward) will bring.”

 

SK:              “I got some experience from my fight against Bernard Hopkins. He showed that never give up. That you should to fight all 12 rounds and hope for your win.”

 

Question:     Do you expect Andre Ward will hold you and use his head?

SK:              “Yes I think he will use it and I am ready for this too. It will be wrestling and not fight [laughs].”

 

SK:              “I think he (Ward) will look much better in my fight November 19 because he long time didn’t fight, couple years he had a rest and Sullivan Barrera was first fight when he returned. And with Alexander Brand he was better than against Sullivan Barrera. I accept that he’s going to look much better November 19. In best shape.”

 

SK:              “John (David Jackson) just gives me freedom to do what I want, what I would like to do. You know, just like adjust some things and advice between rounds about technique. Working a lot with mitts. I like work with him and feel comfortable.”

 

SK:              “I don’t think that Andre Ward (will) let me use a lot of body shots because he has great legs and a lot of movements. You know he’s very smart. And I think first part of this fight is going to be a lot mentally, but I should prove that I’m Krusher and that I’m going to do my job. He’s going to do his job, me to do my job.”

 

SK:              “I think my last fight against Chilemba, it was like a similar fight you know, because Chilemba’s a little bit style as Andre Ward. But Andre Ward is Andre Ward, a little bit different and stronger, smarter, undefeated and more motivated than Chilemba. I’m interested what he will bring November 19 to the ring.”

 

SK:              “We agreed two fights before our fight. I was ready last year to fight, but Andre wasn’t ready to fight without two fights at light heavyweight. We sign agreement that two more fights and then let’s fight in 2016.”

 

SK:              “I work out morning time. After this some massage therapy, some treatments, after this some rest, little bit nap, cook the food, take a rest and go again to work out. Today two work outs, this was just the first. My plan was a little broke today because usually my first workout is morning time, but right now already almost 3pm. My interview is a workout [laughs].

 

Curtis “The Cerebral Assassin” Stevens

WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Champion

Question:     Do you want David Lemieux and the rematches?

Stevens:       “We all know I want David Lemieux. The question is, is he willing to fight me? Who else? Tureano Johnson, he was winning the fight, but the fight wasn’t over until the final bell rung, and he got knocked out. Some people say it was a premature stoppage, but me, the ref say, you know… I want to be world champion. That was one of my goals, to become a world champion and become a unified world champion.”

 

Q:                How do you feel about being part of this big card?

CS:              “It feels great. Second big card of the year. The first one was Canelo–Khan and now Kovalev–Ward. Opened up the first one and now I’ll open up the second one. It’s a great feeling, great. I’m very honored. It’s a pleasure.”

 

Q:                What are your thoughts on De La Rosa?

CS:              “A fight is a fight. You can call it a stay busy fight, you can call it a real, well it’s a real fight in general, but you can call it what you want to call it. A fight is a fight at the end of the day.”

 

CS:              “I’m a different type of breed. I come from Brownsville. I’m just a different type of guy. What people fail to realize is that some people wasn’t raised how I was raised. You know? I’m from an era where you sign up in the US Championships, the National Golden Gloves, you couldn’t pick who you wanted to fight. This isn’t a show fight; this is a tournament. First day you got your Andre Ward, you got Gennady Golovkin, you got your David Lemieux’s. I mean the first day! No finals, no nothing. I fought Ward three times, he gave me my first loss ever. Then the second time I fought him, it was a US Championship semi-finals, then the third one was the US Championship semi-finals again. You don’t know where you’re going to meet these guys at.”

 

CS:              “I will always be the chin checkers, that’s what I do, I check in and I check out, I will always be that. I got rid of Showtime. Showtime’s a thing of the past, that’s when I was with my old team.  I’m with JDJ now, I’m the Cerebral Assassin, I got to run this tight ship wisely, instead of recklessly. Wisely, get it?”

 

CS:              “John (David Jackson) makes me more relaxed, you know? Let my hands go a little more. Tells me l’m powerful in both hands, so don’t just look to go in there and knock them out.”

Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk

NABF Light Heavyweight Champion

Gvozdyk:     When I first started boxing it was for getting stronger. Then I liked it and it became a hobby. Now boxing is everything. It is my life. It is my job. It is my hobby.

Question:     A lot of people don’t know you yet. What would you like them to know about yourself?

 

OG:              I would like to become popular in the ring. I do my best and they supposed to watch it. I hope they’re going to like me.

 

OG:              My nickname is “The Nail” and that is just a translation of my last name. I have had this nickname since I was ten years old so I am used to that. When I came here everyone started to call me that.

 

Q:                Talk to us about your opponent.

OG:              Chilemba is a very strong fighter. Very smart. He is skilled. He has good defense. It is not going to be easy. I am happy with my preparation so far and I am expecting a good fight.

 

Q:                Talk about the transition you made from amateur to pro.

OG:              Whether it is amateur or pro boxing, it is still boxing. You just have to get used to some different timing. You have to learn to distribute your power for ten or more rounds. You have to get more power in the pros but basically it is the same.

 

Q:                Talk about your preparation for the fight and the dedication it takes in the gym every day to prepare to one day get to the level of Sergey Kovalev and Andre Ward.

OG:              I think that if you want to be champion you have to train hard. You are supposed to do your best and train as hard as possible. If you want to be the best, you have to fight the best and you have to train with the best. That is what I try to do. Now Sergey and Ward have both proved that they are the best fighters and now they get to find out who is Pound For Pound #1. I watch them and I try to do the same steps to be like them.

 

Q:                Who do you think wins Kovalev-Ward?

OG:              I think Kovalev wins. I know it is like 50-50 fight and it is a very interesting fight for me. It is a fight between intelligence and power.

 

Kovalev vs. Ward “Pound For Pound”, a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA light heavyweight title at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, is presented by Main Events, Roc Nation Sports, Krusher Promotions and Andre Ward Promotions and is sponsored by the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Corona Extra, Zappos, JetLux and Monster Products. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Tickets are available on axs.com and the T-Mobile Arena box office.

 

Follow the conversation using #KovalevWard. FOLLOW US: 

 

 
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INDIO’S MANUEL MENDEZ IS READY FOR TV DEBUT AGAINST UNDEFEATED VITOR JONES FREITAS ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TRIPLEHEADER THIS FRIDAY, NOV. 4, LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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Promising Welterweight Taras Shelestyuk Meets Jimmy Herrera in Main Event; Unbeaten Cruiserweights Constantin Bejenaru, Steve Bujaj Clash in Co-Main at Omega Products International Event Center, Corona, Calif.

Live on SHOWTIME at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT

From Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, Calif.

Tickets on Sale Now
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ORANGE, Calif. (Nov. 2, 2016) – Hard-hitting lightweight prospect Manuel Mendez (12-1-2, 8 KOs) makes his U.S. television debut against unbeaten Vitor Jones Freitas (12-0, 6 KOs) this Friday, Nov. 4, from the Omega Products Event Center in Corona, Calif.

Freitas vs. Mendez is scheduled for eight rounds and kicks off a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets for the event promoted by Banner Promotions, Thompson Boxing,  Hitz Boxing and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing are priced at $100 (ringside), $70 (reserved) and $50 (general admission) and can be purchased by calling (714) 935-0900.

Mendez, who is trained by the well-regarded Joel Diaz, is putting the finishing touches on a training camp that saw him spar against former world champions Victor Ortiz, Ruslan Provodnikov and elite prospect Vergil Ortiz.

Thompson Boxing caught up with the 26-year-old slugger from Indio, Calif. and got his take on this Friday’s ShoBox fight.

(On your first time fighting in front of a nationally televised audience) ...

“It’s a great opportunity. I always push myself to the limits and this fight is no different. I have a fan-friendly style that the SHOWTIME audience is going to love.”

(On paper your fight against Freitas appears evenly matched, but most are giving the upper hand to your opponent) …

“I’ve always been the underdog all my life so this is another shot to prove myself. Freitas has a famous name, but that’s about it. He hasn’t faced anyone that approaches my ability.”

(On what you expect from Freitas) …

“The first few rounds will go a long way in knowing what he has. From watching tape, it seems like he has speed, but the most important thing is gauging his power. I can take a punch so once I feel him connect with something, then I’ll know what he has to offer.”

(On your relationship with Joel Diaz) …

“We have an excellent relationship. He’s incredibly helpful in that I’ve seen a great deal of improvement since I’ve been with him. Everything is better. My conditioning, head movement, footwork; I’ve improved in a lot of areas. He’s a great teacher.”

(How would you describe your style for those that have yet to see you fight?) ...

“I’m a smart boxer that pressures fighters into making mistakes. I have all the tools needed to wear down opponents. You’ll always see me in front of you to the point where you get annoyed and start making mental errors. That’s when I put the hurt on you.”

TV FIGHTS

Undefeated 2012 Olympic Bronze Medalist Taras “Real Deal” Shelestyuk (14-0, 9 KOs) will face upset-minded Jaime Herrera in the 10-round welterweight main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader on Friday, Nov. 4, live on SHOWTIME at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) from Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, Calif.

In the co-feature, undefeated cruiserweights Constantin Bejenaru (11-0, 4 KOs, 0-1-1 in World Series of Boxing), of Catskill, N.Y. by way of Moldova, and Stivens “Superman” Bujaj (16-0-1, 11 KOs), of New York, will collide in a 10-rounder for the vacant WBC International and WBC Continental Americas titles.

In the opening bout of the telecast, undefeated lightweight Vitor Jones Freitas (12-0, 1 ND, 6 KOs), of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, will be opposed by local fan favorite Manuel Mendez (12-1-2, 8 KOs), of Indio, Calif., in an eight-round bout. The 23-year-old Freitas is the nephew of popular former two-time lightweight world champion Acelino “Popo” Freitas.

PHOTO CREDIT: CARLOS BAEZA / THOMPSON BOXING PROMOTIONS

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
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 WBC SILVER CHAMPION & WBC No. 1 RANKED LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT ELEIDER ALVAREZ IN ACTION DEC. 10

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
50

th CARD AT THE MONTREAL CASINO
 MONTRÉAL (November 1, 2016) – The “GYM 2016-2017 BOXING SERIES” at the Montreal Casino Cabaret, a PRESENTATION OF MISE-O-JEU, IN COLLABORATION WITH VIDEOTRON, will host its second card of the 2016 season and 50th since 2004 ON Saturday, December 10. The World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver champion and WBC #1 light heavyweight contender, Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (20-0, 10 KOs), will face tough-as-nail Polish fighter Norbert “Noras” Dabrowski (19-5-1, 7 KOs).

 
Dabrowski, a southpaw who has never lost by knockout during his career, will come to Montreal to try and spoil the party. In his last outing, he shattered the perfect record of his countryman. Marek Matyja (11-0).
 
In his only fight outside of Poland, Dabrowski delivered a strong opposition May 2, 2015 to German Dominic Boesel (18-0), losing by a close 10-round unanimous decision (113-115, 111-116, 110-117) to a rival who was then and remains the World Boxing Organization (WBO) #2 rated light heavyweight in the world, as well as # 8 the WBC.
 
Alvarez, a Colombian Olympian at the Beijing Games, he won the WBC Silver light heavyweight title August 25, 2014 in Monaco, defeating South African Ryno Liebenberg (16-0-0). On June 12, 2015, in Chicago, on Premier Boxing Champions series event, Alvarez knocked out Ukrainian Anatoliy Dudchenko(19-3) in the second round.
 
“Storm” then faced strong opposition, Paraguayan slugger Isidro Ranoni Prieto (24-0-3), August 15, 2015, at the Bell Centre in Montreal. After a tough brawl, the Montreal’s adoptive son Alvarez was declared the winner by unanimous decision.
 
Alvarez went on to beat top contenderIsaac Chilemba (24-2-2), of Malawi, in a WBC light heavyweight elimination bout November 28, 2015, by way of a majority decision, at the Videotron Centre in Quebec City,
 
In his last outing, this pat July 29 at the Videotron Centre, Alvarez dominated solid New Zealand southpaw Robert Berridge (27-4-1) to earn a clear win by unanimous decision.
 
“I am happy to come back to the Montreal Casino, where I had my first three pro fights,” Alvarez said. “I asked my team to keep me active and to also evaluate what I do well and what I do badly against southpaws. I want to be fully ready for Adonis Stevenson and become the first Colombian light heavyweight champion of the world!,”
 
This coming fight will most likely be Alvarez’ last outing before fighting Stevenson, the WBC light heavyweight world champion in 2017. Dabrowski is a strong and durable southpaw, who will be an excellent test for Alvarez before he faces the champion.
 
“It was at the insistence of his team that Alvarez will jump in the ring on December 10,” GYM president Yvon Michel noted.
 
“Waiting for his world title fight, Eleider is not afraid to risk his lofty position in the rankings to give himself the best conditions for success when his time comes. Dabrowski has never been stopped and gave the # 2 WBO ranked fighter all he could handle last year. He is also a southpaw. It is logical to anticipate a captivating fight on December 10th. We have an exciting card for our 50th event at the Montreal Casino. The boxing fans will be the big winners!”  
 
A real challenge for Dicaire
The charismatic Marie-Eve Dicaire (5-0, 0 KOs), of St-Eustache, Canada, will fight in the co-main event of the evening. She will face the biggest challenge of his career against former North American Boxing Federation (NABF) welterweight champion, Mexican Paty “La Elegante” Ramirez (11-2, 5 KOs).
 
Interestingly enough, the two boxers are ranked 11th in the world by the WBC: Dicaire at welterweight (147 lb), Ramirez at super welterweight (154 lb).
 
Marie-Eve will look to continue her strong momentum in the pro ranks. In her last outing (Oct. 20), she delivered a stunning performance, also at the Montreal Casino Cabaret, where she clearly feels at home. She then defeated Mexican Karla Zamora (3-2-0) by unanimous decision.
 
If she is successful, it will be her last six-round fight before moving to an eight- round bouts in February.
 
“It is a close date for me since I fought October 20 but I am coming back from a week of vacation,” Dicaire remarked. “So, I am fully ready to start my training camp. My last fight was a war that the crowd really liked, where I gave a little more while neglecting my defense. For this bout, I am sure that I will be able to show my real potential.”
 
“In only her fifth bout,” Michel added, “Marie-Eve was already world ranked. She will eventually fight for a world title having everything it takes to do so. Also, women’s boxing has boomed lately, since females can box in the Olympic Games.”
 
Lafrenière and Phinn also in action
If the Alvarez and Dicaire fights weren’t enough to guarantee a very entertaining evening Dec. 10, also scheduled to fight on the card are two very popular boxers in Quebec, Francis 
Lafrenière and Shakeel Phinn.
 
Lafrenière (12-5-2, 7 KOs), the charismatic International Boxing Federation (IBF) International middleweight champion, will make his debut at the Cabaret du Casino. Nicknamed, “The People champ,” Lafrenière is known for his aggressive and uncompromising boxing style.
 
He first became Canadian middleweight champion June 28, 2014, in Lachine, by winning a unanimous decision over Paul Bzdel (5-4-1) from Saskatchewan. He then won his IBF International middleweight title in a furious fight last January 30 against Quebecer Renan St-Juste (26-4-1) at the Bell Centre, which many consider the Fight of the Year.
 
Lafrenière is currently on a nine-fight win streak. He counts on extending it to 10 on Dec. 10. His opponent will be announced within days.
 
“I had my first pro fight here at the Montreal Casino and I had a draw,” the optimistic Lafrenière commented. “Thanks to GYM for giving me the opportunity for redemption. I had a solid brawl with Renan St-Juste, but I am ready to deliver another one this bout.”
 
Phinn (10-1, 6 KOs), the Canadian super middleweight champion,is a familiar face to the Casino boxing fans.  A protégé of former boxer Ian MacKillop, he won his title last Feb. 27 in Saskatchewan by defeating Paul Bzdel (5-7-1).
 
In his last outing, on October 15 in New Brunswick, Phinn knocked out New Brunswick fighter Tom Vautour (2-0). It will also be his second appearance at the Montreal Casino Cabaret this year having defeated Mexican opponent Jaudiel Zepeda (12-14-1) this past May 24.

Lucian Bute and Christian Ganescu protégés, Dario Bredicean (10-0, 3 KOs) and Bruno Bredicean (5-0, 1 KOs), plus Patrice Volny (3-0, 2 KOs) from Montreal, will also be in action against opponents to be announced.
 
The galas at the Casino
“GYM BOXING SERIES AT THE CASINO DE MONTRÉAL” is a formula that has been very popular from 2005 to 2010. During this period, no less than nine participants eventually became world champions. For its 13th year, GYM repeated this formula where the proximity of the action, the warm and electrifying ambiance, as the intensity of the fights, provide a unique experience.
 
In addition, at each gala, you will receive a private invitation to mingle with the athletes and observers in a bar of the Casino exclusively for this purpose.
 
December 10 will be the 50th event presented by GYM at the Montreal Casino.
 
Former world champions Joachim Alcine (seven times), Otis Grant (four times), Leonard Dorin (once), Adrian Diaconu (once, Bute (once), Jean Pascal (nine times), David Lemieux (14 times), William Joppy (against Sebastien Demers), and the current WBC and lineal world light heavyweight champion Adonis “Superman” Stevenson (six times), have all fought at the Montreal Casino Cabaret.
 
The WBC super middleweight elimination bout between Otis Grant and Librado Andrade (April 8, 2006), and the spectacular clash between Herman Ngoudjo and Emanuel Augustus (Oct. 15, 2005) are among the best memories for Quebec boxing fans.
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TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION ANDRE WARD MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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Letterhead

 

 

KOVALEV-WARD “POUND FOR POUND”

SET FOR SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19

AT T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW®

 

 

Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Khristopher Sandifer/Roc Nation Sports

 

OAKLAND, CA (November 1, 2016) – On Monday, October 31, 2016, Two-Time World Champion Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (30-0, 15 KOs) participated in a media workout in Hayward, California ahead of his pound-for-pound showdown against WBO, WBA and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-0-1, 26 KOs). Kovalev-Ward “Pound For Pound” takes place Saturday, Nov. 19 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

 

Ward put on a full workout session for the media in attendance, consisting of a series of shadow boxing, heavy bag, double end bag, speed bag and then stretching. Also on hand were youths from Camp Sweeney, Alameda County Probation Department’s residential facility in San Leandro, whom Ward spent time speaking with following the workout.

 

Below is what Ward had to say during the media workout:

 

ANDRE WARD, Two-Time World Champion:

 

“I feel that this fight with Kovalev is 50-50. That’s how I approach all of my big fights. I don’t go into the fight thinking, ‘I’ve got a clear-cut advantage here’ or ‘I’ve got to run through this guy.’ Personally, for me, I can’t roll like that. I’ve got to keep myself honest, stay on my grind, keep my head down and force myself to keep working. I truly believe Kovalev is everything they say he is, and I’m everything that I’ve shown over the years.

 

“There are always different game plans, nuances, different things you’re working on but I respect every fight that I fight. I don’t get caught up in the whole puncher thing, anybody can get you out of there if you get hit right. I don’t think I’d be sitting here in this position right now if I hadn’t had these highs and lows. We’ve got to find a way to get it done, and we’re going to find a way to get it done. I don’t care what he’s got in his gloves, who he’s knocked out or what he’s done. My job is to get my hand raised, and that’s what we’re focused on.

 

“I have days where I do some type of cardio in the morning – sprints, distant running – then go back to training camp to get some rest and eat. Then we come to the gym and spar and hit the heavy bag. It’s a monotonous process when you’re in training camp, and that’s pretty much every day. Of course we take days off to rest the body and be smart, but it’s really the same thing every day. As you get closer, you start to pull back a little bit so you don’t over train. That’s normally the week of the fight, so up until the Saturday before the fight, you’re full steam ahead. 100 miles an hour.

 

“Typically, Virgil and I will go through our process together. He watches a lot more film than I do. He’s up until 3:00 a.m.or 4:00 a.m. watching film. As I’ve gotten older, I watch less film. I don’t need to see 10 fights to see tendencies and certain things. I know what I need to see. I may go back and watch a round here and there, but I try and leave room for my instincts. I’m very instinctual. You’ve got to be able to think on the fly thinking on the highest level. I leave room for that. It’s not a checklist you go down. You can’t get into a ring thinking like that. I just believe that who I am and what I have is enough, and that’s what I’m standing on.

 

“Having young guys like Shakur Stevenson around, it starts to make me feel old because I used to be that guy at Roy Jones’s camp, Floyd Mayweather’s camp, hanging around Bernard Hopkins. You see yourself in them. It’s a little weird, because you’re like, ‘man, now I’m the OG.’ But it’s also a beautiful thing because we need more of that. We need champions and top contenders and just fighters in general to open up the door and allow the young guys on the way to be shown how it’s done.

 

“I’m honored for Claressa Shields to say that I am her idol. I admire her story, what she’s come from, and think that she’s amazing in the ring. She’s the real deal. I watch her, I pick up things from her. For her to have two Gold medals is amazing. For her to make her pro debut on this fight card is a beautiful, beautiful thing. I think it’s a perfect situation.

 

“It’s a beautiful thing to be fighting in Vegas. I’m excited. What better time than now in this stage in my career. I’m just excited to continue to prepare so I can do my part to give the fans their money’s worth, those that pay to be there and those paying to watch it. That’s what I’m focused on, and I’m extremely happy to be a part of it. T-Mobile is a new arena, and a new chapter, and to be a part of it is a beautiful thing.”

 

 

Kovalev vs. Ward “Pound For Pound”, a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA light heavyweight title at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, is presented by Main Events, Roc Nation Sports, Krusher Promotions and Andre Ward Promotions and is sponsored by the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Corona Extra, Zappos and JetLux. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Tickets are available on axs.com and the T-Mobile Arena box office.

 

Follow the conversation using #KovalevWard. FOLLOW US:

 

 
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