Category Archives: boxing

boxing

Ruben Villa destroys Gerardo Molina in first round of pro debut 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Onatario, CA. (July 30, 2016)–Heralded amateur Ruben Villa (1-0, 1 KO) did not waste any time putting away challenger Gerardo Molina (1-2, 1 KO) this past Friday night in his professional debut. Villa landed a counter left hook early in the first round that sent Molina backpedaling onto the canvas. Seconds later, Villa, who is from Salinas, Calif., rocked Molina with a series of punches, knocking him out at the 2:25 mark of the opening round. 
“It felt great to get that first win,” Villa said. “I didn’t go in thinking knockout, but I knew after the first knockdown that I was going to end it early. I had a bunch of friends and family in attendance. I’m glad I gave them something to smile about.”
“Ruben looked sensational in his pro debut,” said Banner Promotions President, Arthur Pelullo.  “Even though it was just inside of one round, you could tell that Ruben is a tremendous talent, and we are looking forward to his next fight, which should be announced shortly.

“Ruben looked fantastic tonight,” said Ken Thompson, president of Thompson Boxing Promotions. “He gave us a glimpse into his immense potential. Ruben has a very bright future ahead of him and we are excited to continue to feature him on our Southern California shows.”

Villa is co-promoted through Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions.

Photos By Carlos Baeza/  Thompson Boxing
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson Scores Sensational Knockout Over Hard-Hitting Contender Thomas Williams Jr. In Premier Boxing Champions on Spike Main Event Friday Night From Centre Videotron in Quebec City, Canada

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Middleweight Contenders Immanuwel Aleem & Demond Nicholson
Fight to Majority Draw
&
Top Contender Eleider Alvarez Dominates Robert Berridge On Way to Unanimous Decision Victory
 
Click HERE for Photos from Dave Nadkarni/Premier Boxing Champions
(Photos to be added shortly)
 
Click HERE for Main Event Highlights
QUEBEC CITY (July 30, 2016) – Light heavyweight world champion Adonis “Superman” Stevenson (28-1, 23 KOs) delivered a highlight reel knockout victory over Thomas “Top Dogg” Williams Jr. (20-2, 14 KOs) in the fourth-round of an exciting main event showdown on Premier Boxing Champions on Spike Friday night from Centre Videotron in Quebec City, Canada.
“It was a firefight,” said Stevenson. “He put pressure on me so I decided to put pressure on him too. It was a fight with two guys who could punch and it was spectacular. It was my daughter’s birthday and I gave her a great gift.”
The defending champion Stevenson, fighting in his adopted hometown, put Williams down in round one with a straight left hand. Williams was able to recover and began to fire back in round two. However, Stevenson’s jab consistently sent Williams backtracking, while Williams abandoned the jab and attempted to cut the distance with power punches from difficult angles. Williams staggered the world champion several times, using an effective counter right hand while getting the best of many exchanges.
Both men were hurt in an exciting third round that saw momentum swing in each man’s favor before the bell rang to end the round. A cut opened up over the left eye of Williams in the end of the round that was tended to in his corner. Williams hit the canvas as a result of a low blow early in the fourth, but regained his footing shortly after.
The notorious power puncher Stevenson eventually landed the deciding blow of the night when he caught Williams’ chin hanging in the pocket and delivered a straight left hand that put the challenger to the floor. The Washington, DC area-native was unable to recover, prompting referee Michael Griffin to stop the bout 2:54 into the fourth round.
Additional televised action saw rising middleweight contendersImmanuwel Aleem (16-0-1, 9 KOs) and Demond Nicholson (17-1-1, 16 KOs) fight to a majority draw in their eight-round bout.
Neither fighter was able to control of the fight with Nicholson attempting to use his length and jab while Aleem tried to cut the distance and attack with short punches. Nicholson appeared to have the more effective attack in the early rounds, while Aleem began to have more success as the fight shifted to toe-to-toe action in the second half of the fight.
The judges’ scores reflected the close nature of the fight as one judge had it 77-74 for Aleem while the other two judges had it a 76-76 draw.
The televised opener saw Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (20-0, 10 KOs) keep his perfect record intact with a unanimous decision victory over New Zealand’s Robert Berridge (27-5, 21 KOs) in a 10-round light heavyweight affair.
“I am happy with the win, but I would have liked a knockout! He was tough, but he did not hurt me at all and I thought that I hurt him. I am ready for my next challenge, which will hopefully be a world title fight.”
The top-rated contender for Stevenson’s title, Alvarez established his jab early on while attacking the body of Berridge with right hooks. Alvarez continued to control the fight from a distance as Berridge was slow to begin increasing his output before he started putting the pressure on in round five.
The southpaw Berridge was able to land occasionally on Alvarez with a looping left hand, but never put the undefeated fighter in danger. Alvarez began to have more success varying up his attack with right uppercuts and hooks that eventually left Berridge’s right eye swollen and bruised.
Alvarez took home the decision by scores of 99-90 and 98-92 twice.
PBC on Spike was promoted by Group Yvon Michel (GYM).
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.groupeyvonmichel.ca, andwww.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AdonisSuperman, @TopDoggJr, @yvonmichelgym @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,and www.Facebook.com/Spike. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on ESPN is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing

Chazz Witherspoon headlines against former world title challenger Mike Marrone on August 6th at The Grundy Arena in Bristol, PA.

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Emanuel Taylor battles Carlos Aguilera

Plus undefeated Mike Hilton, Elijah Vines, Jaron Ennis, LaShawn Rodriguez and Luis Perozo
Junior Welterweight Sam Teah also on the bill 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bristol, PA (July 29, 2016) – Chazz “The Gentleman” Witherspoon will take on former world title challenger Mike Marrone On Saturday night, August 6thas D & D Promotions and Silver Spoon Promotions will present “Rumble at the Rink II” at the Grundy Arena in Bristol, Pennsylvania.

Witherspoon (33-4, 26 KO’s) of nearby Paulsboro, New Jersey established himself as one of the top American Heavyweights as the St. Joseph’s University graduate won his first twenty-three bouts with wins over the likes of Michael Alexander (11-0), Talmadge Griffis (24-6-3), Jonathan Haggler (18-1) before suffering his 1st defeat to future two-time world title challenger Chris Arreola via controversial disqualification.

Witherspoon went on to win three fights in a row, which was highlighted by an entertaining 8th round stoppage over Adam “The Swamp Donkey” Richards (21-1). That fight was voted Ring Magazine’s 2008 Heavyweight Fight of the Year.Witherspoon then dropped a fight to future two-time world title challenger Tony Thompson.

Witherspoon went on to score 4-consecutive knockouts which included a devastating 3rd-round destruction over Tyson Cobb (14-2).

Witherspoon then took on undefeated prospect Seth Mitchell on April 28, 2012 in a bout where Witherspoon had Mitchell badly hurt in several occasions before Mitchell came away with the victory.

Witherspoon has scored four consecutive knockouts which includes his last bout when he stopped Nick Guivas (11-2-2) in three rounds on August 15th in Atlantic City.

Marrone of Vero Beach, Florida has a record of 21-5 with 15 knockouts.

The 30 year-old turned professional in 2004 and won his first 18 bouts that was highlighted by a nationally televised win over Malachy Farrell (15-0).
Marrone suffered first defeat at the hands of future world title challenger Francisco Pianeta.  Marrone also lost to world title challenger DaVarryl Williamson.
Marrone challenged for the WBA Cruiserweight title, but was defeated by Guillermo Jones.  Marrone also came up short against former heavyweight champion Shannon Briggs.
Seeing action in the eight-round co-feature will be junior welterweight Emanuel “The Tranzforma” Taylor (19-4, 13 KO’s) battling Carlos Aguilera (10-16, 4 KO’s) of Chiapas, Mexico.

Taylor of Edgewood, Maryland has a record of 19-4 with 13 knockouts.

The 25 year-old, won his first fourteen bouts has quality wins over Ayi Bruce (15-1); George Sosa (6-0); Raymond Serrano (18-1)’ Victor Cayo (31-3) & Karim Mayfield (18-1-1).

Taylor also battled former world champions Adrien Broner and Chris Algieri to competitive decision defeats.

The Taylor – Aguilera bout is promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

In four-round bouts:

Cruiserweight Mike Hilton (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Trenton, NJ will take on an opponent to be named.

Middleweight Elijah Vines (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will battle Julian Valerio(3-3, 2 KO’s) of Atlanta, GA

Junior welterweight Sam Teah (7-1-1, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will all see action against Samuel Amoako (21-12, 15 KO’s) of Silver Spring, MD.
LaShawn Rodriguez (3-0, 2 KO’s) of Shirley, NY will fight Jason Wahr (4-12-3, 1 KO) of Virginia Beach, VA. in a middleweight bout.
Jaron Ennis (4-0, 4 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight bout.
Luis Perozo (1-1, 1 KO) of New York will battle Alberto Martinez (0-1) of Tifton, GA
Tickets for this night of boxing are $150 VIP with food and soft drinks; $100; $50; $25 (for children under 17) and can be purchased by calling 856-842-7577 ordboysboxing@gmail.com or www.dboysboxing.com

The Grundy Arena is located at 475 Beaver Street in Bristol, PA.
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

“PAULIE MALIGNAGGI: DEAR BOXING” PENS OPEN LETTER SHARING HIS INTIMATE THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS ON WHY HE KEEPS FIGHTING

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Photo by Amanda Westcott / SHOWTIME

 

CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO

 

“Boxing Gave Me Things I Couldn’t imagine. Boxing Let Me Dream. That’s What I’m Fighting For: That Chance To Dream Again.”

Veteran boxer, a former two-division world champion, Paulie Malignaggi pens an open letter to the sport of boxing as the Magic Man prepares to step into the ring once more on Saturday night.

 

Malignaggi (35-7, 7 KOs) will face Gabriel Bracero in a 10-round welterweight bout between fellow Brooklynite in the SHOWTIME EXTREME® main event tomorrow, Saturday live at 7 p.m. ET/PT from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y.

 

Malignaggi explains in the letter why he keeps on climbing into the ring: “I know fighters don’t age gracefully,” he says. “I know fighters get hurt. But I also know in my heart, I gotta fight. At least one more time. Why? I’ll tell you why: Love.”

 

After his bout, Malignaggi, also a SHOWTIME Sports® boxing analyst, plans to join the announce team and call the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader featuring featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz defending against N. Ireland’s Carl Frampton and the return of  undefeated and former two-division champion Mikey Garcia facing ex-champion Elio Rojas, live onSHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

boxing

Wilcox tops Orozco in Toronto

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Toronto, Ontario, Canada (July 29, 2016) – Up and coming lightweight Steven Wilcox of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada scored an impressive eight round unanimous decision over rugged Mexican Juan Orozco Thursday, July 28 at the Danforth Music Hall in Toronto.

Topping Lee Baxter Promotions’ inaugural “Next Generation” fight card and with an excited crowd supporting him, the taller Wilcox looked to use his range from the opening bell. Orozco was able to close the gap at times during the first few rounds, landing some decent shots in close quarters. Wilcox effectively adjusted and found his range, peppering Orozco with clean punches. For the remainder of the bout, Orozco attempted to press forward but was unsuccessful as Wilcox continued to land clean shots to the body and head of his game foe en route to a unanimous decision.

Wilcox improves to 14-1-1 with 5 knockouts. The game Orozco is now 14-4-2 with 10 KO’s.

Light heavyweight “Irish” Tim Cronin of Etobicoke, Ontario dominated Slovakia’s Kristof Demendi over six one sided rounds en route to a decision. Cronin, who is unbeaten since losing a split decision in his pro debut, dominated the fight as Demendi was never able to find his rhythm.

Cronin ups his professional ledger to 8-1-1 with 2 wins by knockout while Demendi slips to 10-2-2 (6 KO’s).

Highly touted heavyweight newcomer Mladen Miljas (1-0, 1 KO) battered David Vyletel (5-2, 2 KO’s) of Slovakia until the referee saved the latter from further punishment in the second stanza. Miljas, who fights out of Ontario, displayed an arsenal of skills during the impressive showing.

In other action, junior middleweight Mayron Zeferino (1-0) scored a first round knockdown and overcame a late rally from Danyk Croteau (1-1) en route to a decision victory while super middleweight newcomers Augistino D’Aluisio (0-0-1) and Mike Miller (0-0-1) battled to a draw.

“We went through a lot of changes with this card and worked hard to make it happen,” said Lee Baxter. “Miljas looked fantastic and Zeferino gutted out a decision over a very determined opponent. Steven Wilcox was very sharp tonight and outpointed a very tough foe that never stopped trying. Overall, I’m satisfied with the event and hope the fans that tuned in around the world via the webcast enjoyed it as well. We’re looking forward to bringing more exciting boxing to Ontario.”

Lee Baxter Promotions’ next card will be announced shortly.

boxing, charity, Team Fight to Walk

Melson named New York Sportscene Children Foundation’s Humanitarian Honoree

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Boyd formal photo.jpg

New York, NY (July 28, 2016) – WBC USNBC junior middleweight champion, West Point graduate and Army Reserve Officer Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson has been selected as New York Sprotscene Children Foundation’s (NYSCF) Humanitarian Honoree.
He will be honored and serve as the special guest for their 2nd annual Celebrity Golf Classic and pool party August 15 inCommack, NY at The Hamlet. As the honoree, Melson’s also participating in a cocktail hour, award dinner, interview sessions, photo ops and meet & greet.
A501(c)(3), the NYSCF helps to benefit and improve the lives of children and help those in need live happier and healthier. The mission of the New York Sportscene Children’s Foundation is to provide much needed support of local charities.
A recognizable figure in and out of the ring, Melson gained notoriety in the boxing world by donating 100% of his fight purses towards helping others. 16 of his purses went to Team Fight to Walk to help find the cure for Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries and the other went to a friend whose son has brain cancer. Between his fights, charity galas and donations, Melson and co-founder Christan Zaccagnino helped raise close to $400,000. He is also a well-known motivational speaker that has inspired the US Army, various athletes, at-risk youths, large corporations and students of all ages.
The NYSCF is specifically recognizing Melson for his dedication and support of Team Fight to Walk, mentoring at risk youths and excellence as an athlete.
The NYSCF’s Golf Classic will raise funds to provide for local children in need. Their 2015 event made it possible to host a poolside party for more than 150 ill, special needs and underprivileged children and their families. These children, many whom never swam in a pool before, will be shuttled in from the NYC boroughs as well as Long Island to enjoy the pool party. The funds raised last year also covered a holiday celebration for close to 1,000 children and their caregivers.
This event also supports the YES WE CARE Veteran Support Program, Family Services of Westchester Jerome Wagner Youth Residence for Boys, Evelyn Sachs Steiner Residence for Girls and a SUNY Farmingdale Alumni Association Scholarship. On top of that, the NYSCF is making a donation to Team Fight to Walk, which literally brought Melson to tears upon hearing the news.
“I’ve had the blessing to be honored many times for things I’ve done in and out of the ring but this is truly unlike anything else,” said Melson. “When I got the call for this and was asked to be the honoree, I thought they were kidding. The original guest was Denzel Washington and the fact that they went from him to me is beyond humbling. I immediately started crying over the phone thanking them profusely. I’m looking forward to this event and owe a special thanks to both Laura Quintoni and Fran Petito, who are both part of the New York Sportscene Children’s Foundation’s leadership. I told them both that the universe keeps reminding me of my path by sending angels into my life to help me along my path. As soon as I heard about the pool party, my first question was “can I get in the pool and play with the kids.” I was met with an encouraging yes and I am looking forward to that part of the day as much as any part. FOX News will be filming and although it will not be aired live, the coverage will air nationwide at some point. I hope to meet many great families and bring smiles to their faces. My wish from this is that this experience increases my opportunities to help positively impact the lives of others.”
For more information on the NYSCF outing, please visithttp://nysportscene.com/childrens-foundation.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

Adonis Stevenson vs. Thomas Williams Jr. PBC on Spike Official Weights, Weigh-In Photos & Fight Week Quotes

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Please see below for the official weights along with fight week quotes from Adonis Stevenson and Thomas Williams Jr. heading into tomorrow’s Premier Boxing Champions on Spike main event live from Montreal.

Click HERE For Photos From Dave Nadkarni/Premier Boxing Champions

ADONIS STEVENSON – 173.6 lbs
”Welcome to Québec City Thomas. I saw your fight against Edwin Rodriguez. It was a nice performance with a beautiful KO. When I saw that bout, I told myself I wanted that fight with you. I knew I was going to be motivated.
”I know Williams hits hard and that he has a name now in the United States, but I keep the same Kronk Gym mentality Emmanuel Steward taught me: we go for the KO. It is also the birthday of my daughter and I want to offer her a KO, I am motivated. This will be exciting…don’t blink!”
THOMAS WILLIAMS JR. – 174.6 lbs
”You don’t know what I have been through to be here. Tweets, talks and predictions won’t mean nothing Friday night: facts will. There will be a new champion.”
ELEIDER ALVAREZ – 179.4 lbs
”With only a 10 day notice, I am really happy to face a fighter of such a high caliber. Berridge is a tough guy who faced good names like Thomas Oosthuizen and Blake Caparello, but I prepared really hard for Chad Dawson. I am ready.”
 
ROBERT BERRIDGE – 178.4 lbs
”I am excited to be here and to face a solid boxer. Expect a good performance from me on Friday.’
IMMANUWEL ALEEM – 160.4 lbs
 
DEMOND NICHOLSON – 160.4 lbs
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.groupeyvonmichel.ca, andwww.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AdonisSuperman, @TopDoggJr, @yvonmichelgym @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, andwww.Facebook.com/Spike. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on ESPN is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Leo Santa Cruz vs. Carl Frampton  Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Stacked Night of Boxing at Barclays Center in Brooklyn Highlighted by SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®Tripleheader
 
Live On SHOWTIME®, This Saturday, July 30 At 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
Preliminary Fights Begin At 7 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®
 
Click HERE For Photos From Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
Click HERE For Photos From Andy Samuelson/Premier Boxing Champions
 
BROOKLYN (July 28, 2016) – Undefeated three-division world champion Leo Santa Cruz and undefeated former unified 122-pound world champion Carl Frampton went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their featherweight world title clash that headlines a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader this Saturday, July 30 live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Televised coverage begins on SHOWTIMEat 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features undefeated former world champion Mikey Garcia taking on former world champion Elio Rojas in the co-main event,plus once-beaten contenders Tony Harrison and Sergey Rabchenko in a junior middleweight title eliminator.
Two-time world champion Paulie Malignaggi meets fellow Brooklynite Gabriel Bracero in the SHOWTIME EXTREME main event. Coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/PT with a lightweight battle between Ivan Redkach and Tevin Farmer.
Tickets for the live event, which is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Cyclone Promotions, start at $38 and 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.
The fighters spoke to media Thursday at the Dream Hotel Downtown in Manhattan. Here is what the participants had to say:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“I’m glad that my whole family is here and I’m thankful to my whole team that got me ready for this opportunity.
“I’m so happy to have my dad here. We thought about not taking this fight when he got the [cancer] diagnosis. He’s always been there with me since the beginning of my career. Since I was very small. When the doctors told me that he would be in my corner, I was even more ready for this fight.
“I know that this is going to be an interesting fight. We’re both undefeated and we’re going to make it a war. Neither of us wants that first loss. We’re going to leave it all in the ring. This won’t be an easy fight. It’s a 50-50 fight. The fighter who wants it the most will win the night.
“I want boxing fans from every background – Latino people from everywhere – Mexicans, Dominicans, Puerto Ricans – to come out and support me and come watch a great fight on Saturday night.”
CARL FRAMPTON
“I’ve worked very hard in the gym and I feel strong at 126 pounds. This new weight suits me and you will see the result in the ring.
“Nothing can compare to this opportunity. People know me in Belfast, but Leo Santa Cruz is a three-weight world champion who gives me the opportunity to become more well known.
“This fight sells itself. I respect all my opponents until I’m disrespected myself. I respect Leo because of his actions and because of the great fighter that he is.
“I’m a different animal now at 126 pounds. I was only performing at 70 or 80 percent of what my capabilities were. I’m feeling strong and I’m a different fighter. This will be my best performance.
“I’m honored to be on a bill with so many great fighters. There are four fights that could probably top a bill in their own right. I’m honored to be here and I’m going to get the victory on Saturday night.”
MIKEY GARCIA
“It’s been a while since I’ve done this but I’m very excited to be back. I want to thank everyone who helped put this fight together.
“Everybody has said it all. We’re ready. We’re prepared and we’ve had a great training camp. Rojas has the boxing skills to make this complicated.
“I have better skills than any fighter put in front of me. This will be the beginning of the next stage of my career. The most memorable part of my career.”
ELIO ROJAS
“I’m very thankful for this opportunity. I’m really happy about being on this show. In this fight. I know I’m being brought in as an opponent, but I’m going to let the fans know that I’m not just an opponent.
“I know who Mikey Garcia is. I have all the abilities to win on July 30. I’ve always been a boxer who was never protected. I always prepare to win the fight and this will be no exception.”
TONY HARRISON
“I’m just excited to be back on a platform like this. I’m ready put in work. I know my opponent doesn’t speak much English, but I bet he speaks hands.
“No disrespect to Ricky Hatton, because what he’s done for his country and for Rabchenko is amazing, but I don’t care about it at all. Seeing Ricky over there fuels me even more to get the win.
“I just had a son, he’s three months old. He’s my new motivation. We’ve pushed it to the max in training camp. I’m ready to swim with the sharks. I’ve transitioned from a sprinter to a marathon runner. I’m ready to go into the later rounds.
“I’m ready to put Detroit back on the map. One thing you know about Detroit, we’re about that action. On Saturday, we’re coming for it.”
SERGEY RABCHENKO
“This is a very nice country and a great city for boxing. It’s my first time here and it’s very exciting. I’m going to give the fans a really good fight.
“I know my opponent is a young, strong kid fighter and he will be ready. I want him to be ready so that we can give the fans a great show.”
PAULIE MALIGNAGGI
“I hear young guys like Tony Harrison and Tevin Farmer come up here and talk, it reminds me of my young days. The gym I train in down in Miami is full of young guys hungry to break through. That’s the feeling we all used to have in the gym. It starts to rub off on you when you hang around motivated people.
“I need to have great motivation and that fire to return to the top level. I took a couple steps back after the Garcia fight and gradually stepped up. I think Gabe is another step up. He’s a hungry and motivated guy.
“I know Gabriel Bracero, not only as a fighter, but I know his spirit. We came up together in the same generation of New York fighters.
“It’s all love and respect. But this Brooklyn Belt, it looks pretty nice. This is staying here in Bensonhurst.”
GABRIEL BRACERO
“I want to thank Tommy Gallagher, my trainer. He always stood by my side and always believed in me. No matter what the critics said. It’s because of him that I’m standing here now.
“I’ve made mistakes in life. I was away from this sport for a while. Boxing was always my dream though. I stayed focused so that I can come out and do what I’m doing now. Not too many people can bounce back from a situation like that.
“Saturday is a big fight and I’m looking forward to it. I’m really thankful that Paulie gave me this opportunity. I always followed his career and his successes. It was a dream of mine to come out here and have the same success he had. I looked up to him.
“To be here right now and to be able to fight Paulie is incredible. He’s giving me the opportunity to reach his level of success.
“I encourage everyone to come out Saturday night. I’m going to leave my heart in the ring. That Brooklyn Belt is beautiful and I can’t wait to have it around my waist. This is business, not personal. You should get ready to see fireworks.”
IVAN REDKACH
“I’m very thankful to be part of such a great event. I changed a lot about my training heading into this fight. I’ve trained with the great champion Leo Santa Cruz and it has me ready.
“I want to show everyone in the ring what I can do, not up on the stage with my words.”
TEVIN FARMER
“I want to thank my training staff for preparing me for battle Saturday night. I’m thankful for this opportunity.
“This is another chance to show the world who I am. I have about three years with no losses. I started boxing as a hobby. But when I realized how much talent I had, I started training right.
“Since I started taking this sport seriously, I’ve been taking guys out easily. Ivan Redkach will get this work. It’s going to be easy.
“I’m not about talk. A lot of people don’t know who I am, but everyone will know on Saturday night.”
AMANDA SERRANO
“To be here with these great fighters is an amazing opportunity. I’m very honored. I’m ready to fight and successfully defend my title.
“I’m going to show all the critics and non-believers that female fighters have the talent and courage of the male fighters, and we’re here to stay. Come out on Saturday night for a great show.”
BARRY MCGUIGAN, Frampton’s Manager, Former World Champion & Hall of Famer
“We’re delighted to be here in Manhattan for this potential Fight of the Year. The whole team that made this fight happen has been fantastic.
“I just wanted to say that we’re thrilled that Jose Santa Cruz is back on his feet, every one of our families is affected by cancer.
“This is a clash of styles that could make it a fight of the year. We have the utmost respect for Leo Santa Cruz, but we’re here to win and we will win.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“I think that this is the best card that I’ve ever been able to promote. This is the deepest boxing card from top to bottom that I’ve seen.
“Barclays Center has become one of the homes for great boxing. It is the premier venue right now for boxing in this country. The Brooklyn Boxing program is something that Barclays Center is truly committed to.
“If you’re from Brooklyn, then you want that Brooklyn Belt. It’s about carrying the mantle of being that guy from Brooklyn. That’s what both Paulie and Gabe are going to try to do.
“The main event is one of the elite fights that can be made in the sport. These are two amazing fighters. The winner won’t just be a featherweight champion; the winner will have an argument for the pound-for-pound list.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“SHOWTIME has been bringing its viewers the best, most competitive fights of the year, and Saturday will be no exception.
“The 154-pound division is the deepest and hottest in the sport. Tony Harrison and Rabchenko are looking to make their mark and get up to the next level of the division.
“Having Mikey Garcia back is a treat. It’s a big positive for the sports of boxing. Elio Rojas is not just an opponent though. He is tough, he is hungry and I expect this to be an amazing fight as well.
“The main event is again the best versus the best. Two of the most aggressive fighters in any division. There’s nothing else to say about this fight other than that it will be all action. I think this fight could be better than Thurman vs. Porter.
“We’re proudest of all to have the best versus the best. This is what boxing should be. You should be there if you can on Saturdaynight and if not, watch on SHOWTIME, you will not be disappointed.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“This is arguably the strongest card from top to bottom that we’ve had in Brooklyn since we’ve hosted fight cards. This will be a great follow-up to the incredible Thurman vs. Porter fight last fight. We expect another headlining fight that could be a leading contender for Fight of the Year. We are honored to welcome these two great competitors to Brooklyn. They are two of the most exciting fighters in the sport and we wish both of you the best on Saturday.
“Saturday’s card certainly has a Brooklyn flavor to it. It begins with Bensonhurst’s Paulie Malignaggi taking on Gabriel Bracero from Sunset Park with the Brooklyn’s World Championship on the line.
“Amanda Serrano, another Brooklynite, will be the first women ever to defend her title at Barclays Center. We look forward to seeing you in the ring on Saturday night.”
# # #
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @RealCFrampton, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
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SHOWTIME SPORTS® VIDEO FEATURES: LEO SANTA CRUZ FIGHTS FOR HIS AILING FATHER; CARL FRAMPTON AIMS TO REPLICATE SUCCESS OF MENTOR BARRY MCGUIGAN

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 Santa Cruz Family Opens Up About Father Jose’s Battle With Cancer

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

DOWNLOAD: https://we.tl/J0vCnh3Bn7

 

Frampton, & McGuigan Plan For Irish Invasion

YOUTUBE: http://s.sho.com/2aym4k3

DOWNLOAD: https://we.tl/sWZP1GAXgJ

 

As Leo Santa Cruz and Carl Frampton prepare to collide for one of the top spots in the featherweight division this Saturday, the undefeated fighters have plenty of motivation as they approach their marquee summer blockbuster.

 

Boxing has always been a family affair for the Santa Cruz clan, with father Jose leading the charge with the assistance of Leo’s brother, Antonio.  But a frightening diagnosis of cancer has threatened to prevent Jose from manning Leo’s corner for the first time in his career.

 

After unifying the super bantamweight division, Frampton moved up to featherweight for his second fight in the U.S.  And while the Irish sensation aims to become a two-division world champion, he’s also hoping to become a star in America and follow in the footsteps of his mentor, Hall of Famer Barry McGuigan.

 

Check out these intimate SHOWTIME Sports features on Santa Cruz and Frampton as they approach a career-defining moment this Saturday, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

 

#SantaCruzFrampton

 

Tickets for the live event, which is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Cyclone Promotions, start at $38 and 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.

 

Undefeated former two-division world champion Mikey Garcia will fight for the first time in two-and-one-half years when he faces Elio Rojas in the co-feature on SHOWTIME. In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast, Tony Harrison and Sergey Rabchenko will meet in a 12-round IBF Junior Middleweight Elimination Bout.

 

An all-Brooklyn showdown between welterweights Paulie “Magic Man” Malignaggi andGabriel “Tito” Bracero highlights the undercard on SHOWTIME BOXING on SHOWTIME EXTREME®.  A 10-round clash between once-beaten lightweight Ivan Redkach and streaking Tevin Farmer, a winner of 14 straight, will open the SHOWTIME EXTREME®telecast live at 7 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @RealCFrampton, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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“SHOOTOUT”IN QUEBEC STEVENSON vs. WILLIAMS WBC LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE

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July 29 airing live on Spike TV from Videotron Centre
Adonis ”Superman” Stevenson – WBC and lineal light heavyweight world champion:
”Welcome to Québec City Thomas. I saw your fight against Edwin Rodriguez. It was a nice performance with a beautiful KO. When I saw that bout, I told myself I wanted that fight with you. I knew I was going to be motivated.”
”I know Williams hits hard and that he has a name now in the United States, but I keep the same Kronk Gym mentality Emmanuel Steward taught me: we go for the KO. It is also my daughter’s birthday and I want to get her a KO, I am motivated. That will be exciting…don’t blink!”
Thomas ”Top Dog” Williams – WBC #8 light heavyweight ranked challenger:
”You don’t know what I have been through to be here. Tweets, talks and predictions won’t mean nothing Friday night…..facts will. There will be a new champion.”
Eleider ”Storm” Alvarez – WBC #1 ranked challenger and WBC Silver light heavyweight champion:
”With only a 10-day notice,  I am really happy to face a fighter of good caliber. Berridge is a tough guy who faced good names like Thomas Oosthuizen and Blake Caparello, but I prepared really hard for Chad Dawson. I am ready.”
Robert ”The Butcher” Berridge – New Zealand light heavyweight champion :
”I am excited to be here and to face a solid boxer. Expect a good performance from me Friday.”
Yvon Michel – President of GYM:
”The event is called ‘SHOOTOUT’ because of the aggressive style of Thomas Williams Jr, who fights like there is no tomorrow, combined with the explosive power of Adonis Stevenson.”
”Williams is a clear and present danger but we are convinced that Adonis is well prepared and will succeed, so that we will all be happy Saturday morning while eating breakfast. We still have not seen his full potential yet.’
”The fight between Eleider Alvarez and Robert Berridge is really important for the rankings in the light heavyweight division. Alvarez is highly considered by all the independent rankings (The Ring, BoxRec) and Berridge was already in training before the withdrawal of Chad Dawson, because he was supposed to fight on HBO PPV last weekend before the bout was cancelled for administrative reasons. He is fearless and a hard hitter.”
Tickets for the “SHOOTOUT” event, jointly promoted by GYM and Gestev and  presented by Vidéotron, in collaboration with Mise-O-Jeu, start at $50.00 and are on sale and available to purchase at www.ticketmaster.ca, the Videotron Centre Box Office, calling GYM at (514) 383-0666 andthe Champion Boxing club (514) 376-0980, or by dialing 1-855-790-1245