Category Archives: boxing

boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

MIGUEL FLORES SECURES UNANIMOUS DEICION OVER MARIO BRIONES IN A THRILLER ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS ON FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES ON FOX DEPORTES FROM THE DANCEHALL IN SAN ANTONIO

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Ahmed Elbiali Earns Unaninous Decision Over Andrew Hernandez
 
Bryant Perrella Stops Ramon Ayala
 
Click HERE For Photos
Credit: Francisco Perez/Premier Boxing Champions
 
SAN ANTONIO (January 13, 2016) – Miguel Flores (19-0, 9 KOs) defeated Mario Briones (27-5-2, 20 KOs) by unanimous decision (98-92, 100-90, 100-90) in a 10-round contest on the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes fight card Tuesday night from the Dancehall in San Antonio.
Flores opened up the bout establishing the left to the body of Briones. Fighting out of Houston, TX, Flores controlled much of the action in the first, but Briones used his experience and had a nice exchange with Flores to close out the round.
Briones charged back hard in the second though, landing a left in the opening minute of the round that seemingly shocked Flores. Flores threw punches furiously trying to push Briones back and maybe even end it early.
Flores used much of the third and fourth to settle in and land heavy lefts to the body, clearly establishing himself as the stronger fighter. During the action, Briones suffered a cut that opened up over the left eye.
Briones, making his U.S. debut, was the victim of a low blow early in the fifth and took a few moments to regain himself. As the fighters continued, Briones’ cut opened more.
Flores, who was also showing signs of a small cut over his left eye, opened the round controlling the action in the sixth. However, Briones showed no quit and fought back to regain his confidence and advance to another frame.
The seventh round saw both fighters’ left eyes gush blood as the pair threw shots furiously, hoping to end the contest. Flores was hit below the belt, but both fighters showed tremendous will as they survived to extend the fight. The eighth went on as Flores and Briones exchanged toe-to-toe blows in the center of the ring.
Briones, who appeared to control the pace and distance for much of the ninth, had lots of success landing on the inside. But as the round came to a close Flores fought back refusing to be denied.
Flores opened up the tenth landing a determined double left to the body. The fighters’ heads collided shortly after the start of the round, causing both to take pause. Briones seemed the more seriously hurt of the two after the incidental head butt, but both elected to continue, taking the fight the distance.
The opening televised bout featured undefeated light heavyweight prospect Ahmed Elbiali (14-0, 11 KOs) winning an eight-round unanimous decision (78-74, 77-75, 77-75) over Andrew Hernandez (10-4-1, 2 KOs).
After finding their distance, both landed heavy blows in the first. Elbiali managed to connect on a big left hook as the opening frame came to a close.
Hernandez, coming off just two weeks of rest, looked sharp in the second round, landing his right repeatedly. But Elbiali came right back back with another left hook.
In the third, Hernandez controlled much of the round from the outside, backing up Elbiali with the jab to set up combinations. Hernandez landed a shot that seemingly stunned Elbiali and then followed with a flurry to close out the round.
Hernandez carried his momentum over into the fourth and used his experience to make things difficult for Elbiali. Elbiali stalked Harnandez, hoping that the big shot would connect, but failing to land on the big one. As the round came to a close, Elbiali ate another big right hand.
Elbiali, a native of Cairo, Egypt, came out aggressive in the fifth and then stunned Hernandez early in the sixth. Elbiali landed a flurry of punches before Hernandez was able to gather himself and continue. Elbiali, knowing he had Hernandez close, tried to end the fight, but Hernandez survived the punishment.
Both fighters showed signs of tiring as the seventh round wore on, and Hernandez seemed to let a fight that was well within his grasp slip away. More of the same continued in the final round of the bout as Elbiali showed his skill and confidence. Hernandez reminded Elbiali that they were still in a fight, landing a one-two with :30 left, but Elbiali proved too much for Hernandez.
The second televised bout showcased undefeated welterweight Bryant Perrella (13-0, 12 KOs) getting a technical knockout win over Ramon Ayala (23-6-1, 11 Kos) just :10 in to the third round.
Perrella was able to stun Ayala early and continued to use his left to back Ayala down. Perrella kept his distance in the first, staying calm and balanced. A frustrated Ayala retaliated landing a couple of blows after the bell.
The second round saw Perrella control the action, breaking Ayala down and getting the better of the exchanges while landing combinations throughout.
Ultimately the barrage of punches early on was too much for Ayala who retired between rounds before the start of the third.
Below is what the televised fighters had to say about their performances tonight:
MIGUEL FLORES
“The game plan was to box. In the middle rounds I fell asleep and fought a little too much on the inside, but we got the win tonight.
“My speed and my youth helped me get the victory tonight. My footwork was also very important in getting the win.
“The the only thing that frustrated me was I couldn’t knock him out. I thought I was going to get him out of there, but it was a great learning experience for me.
“Tons of people just saw who I am and how I fight. I want to thank PBC and FS1 & FOX Deportes for allowing me this opportunity to make a name for myself and help grow our sport.
“I don’t want to call anyone out, but I’m going be back to work soon. The featherweight division is going to mine, and by the time I get my shot at a title I’m going to be ready for the best.”
AHMED ELBIALI
“Things never go like we anticipate. My plan was to feel him out a bit more, but I hurt my hand in the first round. I don’t want to make any excuses, but I was hoping to be able to box him a little more.
“My biggest advantage tonight was my size, youth and power. He had the experience though, and he looked decent in spots.
“He was a smart veteran. He clinched a lot and did some things that crafty veterans know how to do.
“Fighting on a PBC card boosts my profile and is great for my career. I’m looking forward to my next PBC fight card.
“I really just want and need to improve with every fight. That’s all I can worry about. I’ve got to get this hand feeling better, but then work on making the adjustments to be better next time out.”
ANDREW HERNANDEZ
“I planned on stopping him. He’s a much bigger guy. I’m a natural middleweight, but it was a great chance to fight a quality fighter.
“I felt like I could have stepped on the gas a bit more, worked more on the inside. We also know that he’s a dangerous guy though, so you have to be careful.

“I thought that I did enough to win, but obviously the judges didn’t agree with me. I think the fans who watched think that I won, but I’ll be back.”

BRYANT PERRELLA
“I really wanted to just go in there and flow tonight, not rush to knockout. I was hoping to establish my jab and win round by round.
“The work and training that I put in got me here and helped me get the win tonight. I eat, sleep and breathe boxing. My strength, power and speed helped me a lot tonight.
“He jumped in and hit me a few times with his head, so that made me a little hesitant to get in there on the inside.
“Being able to fight on a BPC card is a blessing. Being able to do what I love to do, this is just a dream come true fighting on FS1 & FOX Deportes.
“I’d love to face some of the guys that I had strong fights with in the amateurs, Errol Spence Jr. being one of them. We have some unfinished business that we’ll have to take care of in the future.”
# # #
The card was promoted by Leija Battah Promotions.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeijaBattahPR, @FS1, @FOXDeportes, @CowboysDanceHal and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
boxing, Showtime Boxing

DEONTAY WILDER VS. ARTUR SZPILKA MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos From Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

BROOKLYN (January 12, 2016) – A huge fight week featuring the first two heavyweight world title fights in Brooklyn in 115 years kicked off Tuesday with media workouts at world famous Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn.

 

This Saturday, January 16 at Barclays Center, WBC Heavyweight World ChampionDeontay Wilder will make the third defense of his title against Polish bruiser Artur Szpilka while unbeaten heavyweights Charles Martin and Vyacheslav Glazkov battle for the vacant IBF Heavyweight World Championship. The doubleheader will air live on SHOWTIME® at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Sferis Knockout Promotions, start at $25, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visitingwww.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.comor 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

 

Also in attendance at Tuesday’s workout were local favorites and featured undercard fighters Julian Sosa (3-0-1, 1 KO), Ivan Golub (9-0, 7 KOs) and Amanda Serrano (26-1-1, 19 KOs),who will fight Erika Kalderas (11-1, 4 KOs) in a vacant WBO Female Featherweight World Title fight on Saturday night.

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

 

DEONTAY WILDER

 

“I’m just happy to be here in New York. There’s so much great history, especially in the heavyweight division, in this city so I’m really happy about the opportunity. It’s the media capital of the word and I get to fight at Barclays Center. It’s an exciting time.

 

“2016 is going to be a huge year for Deontay Wilder. The fans are going to be very excited and impressed with what I do this year. I’m not playing around. My goal is to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world and whoever has those belts is going to have to deal with me.

 

“We’re on a mission. Everything that has happened has been planned. Everything seems to happen at the right time in my career and my life. I was meant to do this. Boxing was my calling in life.

 

“I consider myself the most athletic heavyweight in the division today. I’ve surrounded myself with good people and they’ve helped me get to this place where I am now. I’m happy for it.

 

“I’m from Tuscaloosa just like the Alabama Crimson Tide and they call Tuscaloosa ‘Home of the Champions.’ There’s no better place to be a champion and I’m very proud of the National Champs.

 

“I’m happy that Szpilka got this opportunity. I’m sure he’s excited and overwhelmed. Most fighters don’t get this kind of chance. At the end of the day though, he’s never faced a fighter like me.

 

“I’m mobile and agile. My accuracy and my power is the best out there. Artur Szpilka is in for a world of pain.

 

“2016 is my year. I mean what I say. I feel it inside of me. Szpilka says he’s ready but he’s just trying to promote himself. I really mean what I say.

 

“This is big for me. Being in New York and making history, that’s a dream come true. I’ve been looking to come to Brooklyn for a long time to display my talent. Barclays Center needs a face and I’m looking to make it a home away from home.”

 

ARTUR SZPILKA

 

“I want to be the first Polish heavyweight champion of the world. I’m ready. This is important for Poland and my Polish fans.

 

“Wilder is very tough. He’s tall and strong. This is boxing. He’s human. I know I can beat him. He makes mistakes and I know what I have to do. I know him. I’ve studied him and I see what he does badly.

 

“I can’t wait. This is so important because the Polish people have supported me so well. I know I will be a hero after the fight. I know it and I believe it. Only four days.

 

“This opportunity to fight for a title and on SHOWTIME is something great. I’m here to make history.”

 

CHARLES MARTIN

 

“Getting to this point is very exciting but it will feel even sweeter when I walk out of that ring with the belt on Saturday. Heavyweight boxing is back.

 

“I’m going to go out there on my A-game. I’m going to box and I’m going to show off my power for everyone.

 

“We want to go in there and figure this guy out. We’re going to break through the barrier and end up on the other side a world champion.

 

“I’ve been doing my normal work in camp. We had some great sparring that got me ready for Saturday night.

 

“I’m not one to talk except when the media brings it out of me, but I definitely prefer to let my hands do the talking.

 

“I feel really good. I’m ready. My body is coming back stronger after training in Big Bear, California.

 

“This is the heavyweight division. One punch can change anything. I’m coming to be the IBF World Champion.”

 

VYACHESLAV GLAZKOV

 

“I’m only going to pay attention to what’s going on in the ring. If I relax I will be successful.

 

“I would like to take care of this bout and then work on unifying all the titles.

 

“My opponent has some skills but I have faced the better opposition. Power alone does not win a fight.

 

“I was always more successful fighting the bigger guys, so I am not worried about his size.

 

“My sparring partners were all perfect in preparing me for this fight. I am very confident in my preparation and it will show on Saturday night.

 

“I’ve seen some video of him. He’s definitely a tall guy. I’ve prepared especially for my opponent and anything he can do in the ring.”

 

AMANDA SERRANO

 

“I don’t care who I’m fighting. I want that belt. No one is going to take it away from me. I’m promising a night of fireworks.

 

“I’ll fight anybody. I’m a fighter at heart. I want all the world titles. I want to be an undisputed champion. Whoever they put in front me, I’m taking down.

 

“It’s an honor to fight at Barclays Center. I’m so thankful to have this opportunity. 2016 is going to be the year of Latino boxing.

 

“I’m thankful for everyone who has supported me and if you stay with me I promise you’ll never be disappointed.”

 

JULIAN SOSA

 

“This is a great opportunity for me on Saturday night and I’m really looking forward to fighting on a big stage like at Barclays Center.

 

“I have big goals in this sport and I know that every single fight is very important to do your best. I’ve trained very hard to get into this position and I’m not going to let it slip by me.

 

“No matter who is put in front of me, I want to excite the fans. I’m going to come forward and get the knockout.”

 

IVAN GOLUB

 

“I’m very excited to fight on such a big card at Barclays Center. It’s the first heavyweight title fights in Brooklyn in 115 years and I’m proud to be a part of that night.

 

“I think I’m going to have to box this guy. Everyone wants to win by knockout and if all goes to plan, that’s what we’ll see.”

 

# # #

 

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @BronzeBomber, @Szpilka_Artur, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter, @WarriorsBoxingProm and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter

Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

UNBEATEN RISING STAR ERICKSON LUBIN TAKES ON MEXICAN BRAWLER JOSE DE JESUS MACIAS AS PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS – THE NEXT ROUND ON BOUNCE TV RETURNS SUNDAY, JANUARY 31 FROM SEMINOLE CASINO HOTEL IMMOKALEE IN IMMOKALEE, FLORIDA

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Plus! Puerto Rican Olympian Alex De Jesus Battles
Florida-Native Joseph Elegele
 
Tickets On Sale Now!
 
IMMOKALEE, FL. (January 12, 2016) – Undefeated rising star Erickson “The Hammer” Lubin (13-0, 10 KOs) out of Orlando returns to take on Mexican brawler Jose De Jesus Macias (18-4-2, 9 KOs) in a 10-round super welterweight battle as Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round on Bounce TV returns on Sunday, January 31 from Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee in Immokalee, Florida.
Televised coverage on Bounce TV begins at 9:00 p.m. ET and features Puerto Rican Olympian Alex “El Pollo” De Jesus (21-1, 13 KOs) in an eight-round showdown against Florida’s Joseph Elegele (14-2, 10 KOs).
“I am excited and ready to shine in my first main event,” said Lubin. “It means a lot to headline in my home state of Florida. The whole crowd will be on my side and they will expect a lot. I am going to have a big 2016. I am training hard, staying focused and I want to make sure the whole world knows who Erickson Lubin is.”
“I’m very happy to be part of this show and to be featured in the main event,” said De Jesus Macias. “Training camp has been excellent and I will have to give 100 percent in the ring against Erickson Lubin. I will have to move a lot and get inside and have a tight defense so I don’t get hit by one of Lubin’s bombs.”
“Erickson Lubin has deservedly so been touted as one of the best prospects in the sport and I look forward to seeing him in action on January 31,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions. “He has built up a great base in Florida and we look forward to seeing all of his fans at this great card on January 31.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions in association with Panther Promotions, are priced at $25 and $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets click HERE.
A highly-regarded prospect with an exciting style, the 20-year-old Lubin has burst onto the scene looking to engage and finish opponents early. He blew out Ayi Bruce and previously unbeaten Kenneth Council with first round knockouts and outclassed experienced veterans Michael Finney and Norberto Gonzalez, all since November 2014. To close out his year, Lubin dominated veteran Orlando Lora before stopping him in the sixth-round in September and in November he delivered a sensational one-punch knockout over Alexis Camacho.
 A pro since 2011, the 23-year-old De Jesus Macias picked up victories in 2015 over Gabriel Agramon and Jose Zuniga. Trained by Rigoberto Alvarez, brother of Canelo, the Guadalajara, Mexico-native will make his U.S. debut on January 31. In addition to having a wealth of experience at such a young age, De Jesus Macias rode a 14 fight unbeaten streak from October 2010 through 2013.
An accomplished amateur who won several regional titles in his native Puerto Rico, De Jesus represented his home in the 2004 Olympics and was the first Puerto Rican to win an Olympic boxing match since 1996. The 32-year-old won a Latino title and went on to defend it four times including victories over Bulmaro Solis, Steve Quinonez and Jose Antonio Izquierdo. Most recently he defeated Javier Garcia in February 2015.
After piling up an amateur record of 69-8, Elegele turned pro in 2009 and reeled off 12 victories to start his career. Fighting out of Winter Haven, Florida, he owns victories over Manuel Aguilar, Angel Hernandez and Lanard Lane. Most recently, the 31-year-old earned a victory over Jonathan Garcia.
#  #  #
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter@PremierBoxing, @BounceTV, @EricksonHammerL and @Swanson_Comm and follow the conversation using #PBConBounce, become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV.
Bounce TV is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more.  Bounce TV has grown to be available in more than 93.5 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all of the top AA television markets.  Among the founders of Bounce TV are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.
For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

DANNY GARCIA VS. ROBERT GUERRERO MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL TRANSCRIPT

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Ray Flores
First of all, I want to send a Happy New Year to all the media and everyone that is joining us on the conference call. I’m really excited about Fight Week on FOX in Los Angeles. I could not think of a better way to kick off 2016 than the fight that we have on January 23 at STAPLES Center promoted by TGB Promotions.
It is Premier Boxing Champions Live on FOX and FOX Deportes on January 23 from STAPLES Center in downtown Los Angeles. It is Fight Week and you get two fights that week – TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FOX Sports 1 and BOXEO DE CAMPONES is on FOX Deportes. It is on Tuesday, January 18 at the Club Nokia at LA Live.
Looking at what we have on January 23, it is just going to be a tremendous matchup between two amazing welterweights and two of boxing’s biggest stars as you have Danny “Swift” Garcia and Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero, along with their fathers who are training them — Angel Garcia and Ruben Guerrero. They’re going to be joining us on the call in only moments.
I want to let you know tickets are still available. Get them now because we have been doing very well in regards to tickets. When you’re talking about the Garcia-Guerrero matchup, make sure to use the hashtag PBC on FOX.
Also on the card, we have another sensational welterweight matchup between the Iraq War Veteran Sammy “The Sergeant” Vasquez Jr. against Los Angeles fan-favorite — a man that endeared himself last year, Aron Martinez. Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes — also features an outstanding heavyweight bout between 2012 United States Olympian Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale and Amir “Hardcore” Mansour.
Fight Week kicks off on Tuesday, January 18, Club Nokia in LA Live. The main event is 2008 United States Olympian and Southern California favorite Javier Molina — squaring off with undefeated prospect Jamal James.
Right now, we are going to welcome in one of our main event fighters. This hasn’t been easy for the fighters that have been training around the holidays, but they made the sacrifice anyway and have put themselves in tip-top condition.
First of all, we want to bring in, with the record of 31-0 with 18 wins coming by way of knockout, the former kingpin at 140 pounds campaigning and fighting at welterweight for the second time in his career. Looking at his resume, he has victories over Amir Khan, Lucas Matthysse, Zab Judah, Lamont Peterson and Erik Morales. He’s a star, he’s a rising super star, and he’s looking to have a big 2016, which is why he is kicking it off with this.
But before we get into this man, I want to bring in one of the promoters for what we’re going to be having on January 23 who is going to be promoting the event, from TGB Promotions, let’s bring in Brittany Goossen Brown.
Brittany Goossen Brown
Hello. I’m speaking on behalf of my father, Tom Brown, who’s actually in a meeting at the moment. But on behalf of all of TGB Promotions, we are really excited to be returning to STAPLES Center and partnering with FOX for another great event.
On this call today, we have two of boxing biggest stars, Danny “Swift” Garcia and Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero. They’ll be answering your questions in a minute.
Along with them, on this card we have a welterweight showdown between undefeated Sammy Vasquez and LA’s Aron Martinez. Tickets do start at $25. They’re available at AXS.com. And the first televised bout will be at 4:00 pm on FOX.
This Fight Week on Fox in LA kicks off with TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS, which will be at Club Nokia at LA Live on the 19th. Those tickets also start at $25 and are also available at AXS.com. Doors open for that at 5:00 pm, the first televised bout at 7:00 pm.
It’s really going to be an action-packed week of boxing and we are very proud to be a part of it.
R. Flores
Premier Boxing Champions couldn’t visualize a better partner than what we have with those at FOX. They have been tremendous and the shows on Fox Sports 1 have been terrific.
FOX is known for having big events; the NFL, Super Bowls and big NASCAR events. Now we have Premier Boxing Champions on January 23.
It gives me great honor and pleasure to introduce John Stouffer of FOX.
John Stouffer
On behalf of everyone at FOX, FOX Sports and FOX Deportes, we’re excited for the return of boxing to the FOX Broadcast Network after almost 20 years. We’re thrilled to be working with the PBC to bring the highest level of boxing back to the masses on Saturday, January 23, free on FOX and in Spanish on FOX Deportes.
This will be a tremendous conclusion to a thrilling week of boxing here in LA, kicking off with the great action on FS1 and Fox Deportes. We wish all the boxers the best of luck and can’t wait for Fight Week.
R. Flores
I completely agree with the sentiments of John. We mentioned as well, Premier Boxing Champions is about putting boxing back on free TV. And these fights that we have on January 23 and January 19 are sure to capture the imagination of the public.
All right, let’s get back to business in regards to one of our main event fighters. As I mentioned, wins over Amir Khan, Lucas Matthysse, Zab Judah, Lamont Peterson and Erik Morales. Fighting out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with an exciting style, and man-oh-man, he has vowed to put on a terrific 2016.
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome the former world champion. He is joined alongside by his father, Angel Garcia. Here is Danny “Swift” Garcia.
Danny Garcia
Thank you guys for having me on, I appreciate it. I want to say good afternoon everybody and thank you for having me on this conference call.
I’m very excited to be showcasing my skills January 23 at STAPLES Center live on FOX. I think it’s a great opportunity for the fighters to showcase their skills in a new audience. I want to thank FOX and I want to thank all my fans all around the world for making this happen.
Team Danny Garcia is training hard and we’re focused, we’re mentally prepared and we’re ready for January 23 and we can’t wait.
Q
Danny can you talk about training camp and balancing that with the holiday season?
D. Garcia
I’ve done this before. I’ve trained on the holidays before throughout my career. It’s nothing new.
Once I got the fight date in my head, it’s kind of like there are no holidays for me. So it wasn’t hard for me to stay focused. I trained just like any training camp. And me and my dad, we train hard every day. “The holiday is no holiday” is kind of a saying to us.
Q
What are the goals for you this year? And what do you think this fight can do for your future at 147?
D. Garcia
I think it’s a great fight, I think it’s a great fight for the fans. Two fighters who like to fight. So I think this is going to be an interesting fight and a great matchup.
This is just another fight to prepare myself for a fight for a world title. So I’m ready right now. Every fight in my career that’s going on now is going to be a big fight for me.
Q
12 months from now, where do you see yourself?
D. Garcia
I want to remain undefeated and hopefully be a champion if the opportunity comes up. We’re just taking it one fight at a time for right now and that’s how I did my whole career and that’s how I’m going to keep doing it
Q
When you’re in a fight, does that ever come across your mind when taking a risk or being a little more aggressive? Does that like weigh on you like don’t be too aggressive to risk something like that?
D. Garcia
No, not at all. I’m a fighter who takes risks all the time. I want to entertain the crowd. I have the ability to play it safe if I want too, but it depends on how I feel that day. But everybody knows that Danny Garcia likes to take risks.
When I’m in a fight, I’m just playing round by round; I’m not really worrying about a record or things like that.
Q
How does your body feel with moving up in the weight? You saw the power in your last fight. Do you feel like there’s anything different going from 140 to 147?
D. Garcia
To be honest with you, I feel a lot better. I’m happier now. When I fought at 140, I was always mean while trying to cut weight. I was never in a good mood. I think that’s why a lot of times I would go in there and just fight.
But now I’m able to think more; I’m able to be a lot smarter. My punches are crispier and my stamina is better. I’m able to run more, run more miles, train harder; more endurance. So I may have had the energy at 140 and do that, so at 147 so I just feel a lot stronger and I have more stamina.
Q
Do you see yourself being more active?
D. Garcia
Yes, I would love to stay active; I would love to stay active. But, you know, that my team’s job., I’m a fighter so whatever my team wants, I’ll do. So if they want me to fight two times or three times or four times, then that’s what I’m going to do.
But as for now we’re focused on January 23.
Q
With PBC giving you a lot of exposure, are you focused on just winning the fight or putting on a show with this national space so people can know outside of boxing who Danny Garcia is?
D. Garcia
It’s a Danny Garcia show. I’m always looking to put on a great show, and to go out there and give the fans an exciting fight because at the end of the day, I’ve got to give the fans their money’s worth.
So I’m going there and giving the fans their money’s worth in a great fashion and a smart explosive fashion.
Q
What kind of challenge does Robert present?
D. Garcia
I’m looking forward to – I know he’s going to come ready, but we’re ready. I’m looking forward to a challenge. I’ve prepared myself for a challenge every day, day-in and day-out. So I expect nothing but a great fight and a great performance by me.
Q
What are your goals at 147?
D. Garcia
We’re taking it one step at a time. The goal is to become a world champion again — my second division of being a world champion. So we definitely want to be a world champion again. And when the opportunity arrives, we’ll take advantage of it.
Q
Can you talk of what the difference is in approaching a fight as the underdog with nothing to lose compared to the undefeated favorite with a lot to lose?
D. Garcia
I always approach my mind with the same mindset and it’s just a winner’s mindset. I’m not really too concerned about being the underdog or the promoted fighter or favorite.
I always approach my fight mentally that I’m going to win. I never feed into the politics of the sport or who people think is going to win or going to lose. I prepare myself to be the best Danny Garcia at every fight, and that’s what I prepared myself to do for this fight.
Q
I know you’ve gone on record saying that you didn’t it to be a Puerto Rico-Mexico kind of fight. But here in LA, it becomes that. We just went through that with Cotto and Canelo.
D. Garcia
It is what it is. Whatever the fans want to take it as or whatever the promoters want to do with it, it is what it is. I have a lot of fans and I have a lot of friends out there in Los Angeles, California.
I feel like I represent everyone; Americans and things like that and a lot of Mexican-Americans. I’m an American-Puerto Rican.
So I feel like if you’re born in American and you’re Latino, I think it’s all the same. So that’s how I’m feeling and that’s why I just feel like I represent all the Latinos.
Q
Is there a different feel when you fight in LA, when you go down to STAPLES Center?
D. Garcia
It’s a great feeling; it’s a great atmosphere. I fought there once before with Kendall Holt. I was the undercard.
LA is where stars are born. So I’m looking forward to going out there and having a star performance.
Q
What do you feel your advantages are over Guerrero going into this fight?
D. Garcia
I just feel like I’m the better fighter. I’m one of the best fighters in the world., I got to go in there and be the best Danny Garcia and have a great performance.
Q
Have you seen where and learned anything from watching any of Guerrero’s past fights?
D. Garcia
I definitely watch the fights because at the end of the day, you know, I’m a boxing fan too and I just like to watch boxing.
I watch those fights and I see the things he likes to do and the things he doesn’t like. I’m just preparing myself for anything.
Q
Do you feel you have to make a statement?
D. Garcia
I’ve just got to go in there and get the job done like I always do. I’m not really worried about what’s next on the agenda or anything like that. Our main focus is to get the job done and that’s what we’re preparing ourselves for. Then we can talk about future opponents after the fight.
Q
Do you want to make any predictions for this fight?
D. Garcia
I’d like to say Danny Garcia wins by TKO. Round five.
Q
Did you think that Robert came back a little bit too soon for that Martinez fight and that perhaps is why he looked bad?
D. Garcia
I’m not really too sure. He might have underestimated the guy and not realized it was going to be that tough of a fight., I’m expecting a great Robert Guerrero and I’m focused on Robert Guerrero. I’m focused, I’m training hard. So I’m prepared for whatever I’ve got to do to get this victory.
Q
Kenny Porter has said he had called you out and you ducked the fight with Shawn Porter. Would you care to address that at all?
D. Garcia
I’ve never ducked anybody in the sport. This is actually my second fight at 147. So it wouldn’t even make sense to duck anybody.
I addressed the situation before when he called me out and I had my comments and he had his comments, and it was what it was. Danny Garcia doesn’t duck anybody.
Q
If the opportunity does present itself and even though the report states that it did, but if the opportunity does present itself, it’s something that you would be interested in, a fight with Shawn Porter?
D. Garcia
Yes, no doubt. I want to be a champion. If he’s a champion or there’s a belt up for grabs, then we’ve got to make it happen.
But as of now, I’m focused on Robert Guerrero and he is the task ahead. Can’t let nothing sidetrack me; I’ve got tunnel vision. I’m ready for this fight.
R. Flores
Angel, could you just give us some thoughts on training camp before we switch over?
Angel Garcia
Well yes. The time has been great, there’s no injuries. Danny is looking good. He’s got great sparring partners, as a matter of fact we spar in a few minutes a day. He’s looking great. January 23 the world will see again, as Danny said, the Danny Garcia Show. It’s not the circus coming to town, Danny Garcia Show is coming to town.
So California LA, get ready because we coming like a tornado. Right now they’ve got a storm out there, all this rain and all that. You know who’s causing that? We are.
So January 23, fans get ready baby. STAPLES Center on January 23. Love you guys.
R. Flores
Danny back to you for closing comments and then Robert Guerrero.
D. Garcia
I’m very excited for this upcoming fight January 23rd. Like my dad said, we’ve put a lot of work in the gym. It’s been a long, hard camp preparing ourselves for any situation. I can’t wait to go out there, show my DSG west fans a great fight.
R. Flores
Danny, thank you very much. We really appreciate it. We look forward to fight week with Danny Garcia and his father, Angel Garcia. As mentioned, fight week kicks off in Los Angeles on Tuesday, January 19th, Club Nokia, PBC on FS1, Javier Molina and Jamal James.
We are excited and couldn’t pick a better place than STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. Thank you to all the fans in Southern California for supporting PBC and the entire staff at STAPLES Center as well.
Let’s bring up a man who is representing the Bay Area, fighting out of Gilroy, California. He has won a world championship in multiple different weight divisions. Any time he steps inside the ring, it’s always electric, it’s always a show. He puts forth everything that he has and that much more. With victories over Andre Berto, Selcuk Aydin and Aaron Martinez, anybody that’s been put in front of him he’s fought and he has given everything. Not only is he a former world champion, but his wife is a world champion in her own right, having defeated cancer and she’s been cancer free for quite some time now.
Ladies and gentlemen, he’s joined alongside by his father and his trainer Ruben Guerrero, it gives me a great honor and pleasure to introduce the former world champion who is without question excited and thrilled to have the opportunity to fight Danny Garcia on FOX on January 23, ladies and gentlemen here is Robert Guerrero.
Robert Guerrero
Hello everybody, how are you guys doing? I’m excited to be here and ready for your questions, so shoot away.
R. Flores
Robert, before we have open it up for questions I want to touch base with you. We heard some of the media during the conference call asking and pretty much saying that you’re the underdog. How do you react to the fact that Danny is the favorite in this fight?
R. Guerrero
That don’t bother me at all. My whole life I’ve been an underdog, since I was a kid. My family was always an underdog, having to work out of a field and come up strong and get to what where we got. It’s just a way of life for us. A lot of us Latinos out there, that’s the way it is. We come from poverty and work our way to the top. We’ve always been with our back against the wall and always been an underdog. We never look at that being a favorite, we just come and get the job done.
Q
Could you talk about a little bit how being a boxer has shaped your faith?
R. Guerrero
It’s just that fight and that struggle, getting through everything day in, day out. That hard work. When you go back and you look in the Bible, God says to put out as much as he put into you. That’s what I do every day I’m in the gym. This is a sport where anything can happen. One punch could change your whole life. It brings you closer to God. Everything else I’ve been through, you put God first all the time and that’s how we live.
Just being in the ring and knowing what’s God done for me and my career and my family and how far he’s taken us by having that faith in him, it’s incredible. It’s incredible. STAPLES Center Los Angeles main event on FOX against an undefeated fighter like Danny Garcia, it truly is a blessing from God to be able to be in the position that I’m in and the circumstances that I’ve had to face to be in this position also. The only way you can overcome everything is by having faith in God.
Q
Could you talk a little bit about the positive and negatives sides of being kind of a public religious figure?
R. Guerrero
There’s always a positive to everything, no matter what the negative is. You get the people out there who test your faith and who judge you and try to tear you down. But, when you’re a believer in Christ, you put him first. Nothing else matters to you. You work hard and you do what you got to do and you let your actions speak for you and what God’s blessed you with.
That’s one of the things that we’ve always done. And I try to not overstep our boundaries and try not to be out there forcing the Lord’s word down people’s throat. You let it come and you let people see how much you’ve prospered and how good God is in your life.
Q
Do you think that you did come back to soon after the Keith Thurman fight to fight Aron?
R. Guerrero
I have no excuses. And, you know what? I came back; it was three months after the fight. I think somewhere around there; it was back in camp. Aron Martinez is a tough guy. Everybody saw his last fight and what he did. He came out rough and tough and did his job.
I think I have no excuses. I went out there and got the job done, he gave me a tough fight, and I’m not going to take anything away from Aron Martinez because he trained his butt off and came and did what he did and got the job done. So I have no excuses for that fight. You just got to get back on top of it and work hard.
Q
How did your body feel heading into that fight and coming out of the fight?
R. Guerrero
I felt a little drained and worn out. Not so much of the fighting, but I had other situations going on in my life at home and emotional stuff. It all adds up. But like I said, there’s no excuse. Aron Martinez came to fight and that’s what he did. I sucked it up and bent down and showed that true grit and got through the fight and pulled a victory off.
Q
What are your thoughts on Danny?
R. Guerrero
He’s been in some close fights. That’s the decision of the judges; that’s their job to do that. But, you’re just as good as your last fight. That’s what you look at. He came in and got the job done and stopped him. He cracked the wall through a division. Now it’s time to step in with me and that’s what we’re focusing on. We put a great game plan together and we’re excited to get out there and execute it.
Q
When you see that as a fighter that you’re fighting a guy who’s younger, he’s undefeated, does that give you a little more edge and if you do beat him does it make it that much sweeter for you?
R. Guerrero
Oh, most definitely it makes it sweet to give somebody their first loss. It’s shows what a true champion is to see what they do after they lose and their adversity and their back against the wall. I’m excited to be getting in there with an undefeated Danny Garcia because I get that shot like everybody else gets that shot, to crack that zero and put a one there. It’s exciting.
Q
How important is your record finishing out?
R. Guerrero
It’s about trying to make yourself a better fighter. To come back strong and finish out your career with a strong output. It’s about becoming a world champion again and also attracting that Hall of Fame.
Q
I want to ask you about the whole — Danny didn’t want to make it a big deal about its Puerto Rico versus Mexico — but you know the fans always get so involved in it. You’re on the West Coast here, you know what it’s like, right?
R. Guerrero
Oh, most definitely. Whether you like it or not it’s a rivalry and it’s been a rivalry in boxing and soccer and you name it for years. That’s what it comes down to, that’s what makes our two cultures so competitive at boxing. It’s because of that rivalry. Mexicans want to be better than Puerto Ricans in the game. In my honest opinion I think Mexicans are better in the game. It’s time to come out and show what I still got left and what I can do.
Q
Nowhere better to do than STAPLES Center right here in LA, right?
R. Guerrero
Oh, most definitely. Where most of my Mexican fans are, all those Latinos out there, all those — I like to call them Chicanos out there — because that’s what we are.
Q
What advantages do you see you have over him?
R. Guerrero
There’s always that southpaw stance, being a volume puncher, a guy that throws a lot of punches. Plus being at 147 a little bit longer than him it’s all an advantage. The key is using those advantages and capitalizing on them and taking advantage of them. We got to go out there and execute the game plan and make it happen.
Q
You fought some of the top guys in the world at welterweight; Mayweather, Keith Thurman, Andre Berto and all of that. What have you learned from those fights that you could use against Danny Garcia?
R. Guerrero
You got to get better sparring. For the last couple of fights I’ve just been fighting with guys that are not even pushing me in the gym and getting me 100% ready. Guys that I can do what I want to do with in the ring. It just doesn’t cut it. It just doesn’t cut it.
That’s one of the biggest things that I’ve noticed in my training camp, is not having that solid sparring that’s going to take you to that limit and make you better, sharper, faster. Keep your eyes sharp, and be ready to make those exchanges where you do something wrong they’re going to make you pay no where you’re going to do something wrong and the guy’s going to shell up and just try to survive in the ring. You need those guys that are going to push you and make you better.
Q
Does the time in between fights give you time to heal up and get sharper better?
R. Guerrero
Not so much heal up. I always take good care of my body and I come out of these fights not really damaged too much. I mean, I do a lot of damage in the ring to guys and don’t take a lot of it. It’s a matter of me sitting back and analyzing everything that’s gone on in my training camps and my career and what I need to do, what adjustments I need to make in the gym to get back to where I need to be. I think we made those adjustments and I’m excited to get back out there and make it happen.
Q
Do you want to make a prediction for this fight?
R. Guerrero
Prediction; I’ll come in to fight. I’m coming to fight. Only God knows what’s going to happen and all I can say is I’m coming to win and put out my best performance I can put out and make it happen and become a champion in the welterweight division again.
Q
When we had Danny on the line, Danny made a prediction. I don’t know what your thoughts on his. He said he’s going to TKO you in the fifth round.
R. Guerrero
All I got to say is if that’s his prediction, come to do it. Because I’m coming to fight. I’m always up for that challenge and I love it because I know he’s coming to fight, too. If he’s coming to KO me in the fifth round, that means he’s coming to fight.
Q
Where do you see this putting you back in the rankings and how important is this fight to beat the undefeated with a lot of hype behind him in Danny Garcia?
R. Guerrero
This throws me right back in. There’s lot of hype behind Danny Garcia coming at 147 pounds. There’s a lot of big talk that he’s the next star in boxing that’s going to take over. Like he says himself, stars come to Hollywood. He’s a big star in the sport and I’m not going to say he’s not because he’s been doing what he’s had to do. He’s undefeated; he’s taken out a lot of top guys. His resume is great.
I think this is a tremendous fight for me to get back on top and to get back in the ranks. To show the doubters and the media and everybody out there that Guerrero got a lot left in him. I’ve been 100% prepared for this fight fight. We got that out of the way and it’s time to take care of business on the 23 and I’m excited about it.
Q
Do you think Danny is adding in the factor that he’s not going to be the bigger guy this time?
R. Guerrero
I think he’s going to be a lot bigger than people expect. Being at 140 for the amount of time he was and coming up to 147 pounds, he’s feeling great. He’s feeling strong, he’s feeling bigger. He just walked through Paulie Malignaggi and I know he’s expecting to walk through me. So he predicted the fifth round, a knockout. So he’s feeling great about himself. That just excites me, because I know he’s coming at his best and he’s feeling his strongest and he’s coming to fight. It’s exciting to know how he’s coming to fight.
R. Flores
Robert as we get ready to conclude the conference call, we really appreciate the time and looking forward to seeing you on fight week in Los Angeles. Did you have any closing comments for the media?
R. Guerrero
I’m just excited to be back in the ring. It’s great to be in such a big event, especially here at home in California, at STAPLES Center, in the heart of Los Angeles. I’m excited about that. Also with this great undercard with Aron Martinez who’s a local Los Angeles fighter also who’s coming up strong. It’s going to be an exciting card and I’m excited.
Everybody says that they had the best training camp ever that they’ve had in I don’t know how long. I’m just going to tell you I had a great training camp. I’m excited about this fight; I’m in great shape, feeling good. I can’t wait; I had great sparring. I can’t wait to get into that fight and show the world Guerrero’s still here. I got a little bit derailed and now I’m back on those tracks and it’s time to go full steam ahead.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.com andwww.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage, www.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @DannySwift @GhostBoxing, @SammyV2112, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX.
boxing

Melson to be Recognized at Johns Hopkins University!

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New York, NY (January 11, 2016) – 2003 West Point graduate, philanthropist and WBC USNBC junior middleweight titlist Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson will be recognized as a military star prior to the Johns Hopkins men’s basketball game Saturday, January 16 at the Goldfarb Gymnasium in Baltimore, MD.

 

An active Army Reserve Officer who was chosen for the World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), Melson won four United States Army Championships, a gold medal at the Armed Forces Boxing Championship and was selected as an alternate for the 2008 US Olympic Team. Melson turned pro in 2010 and donated 100% of his purses towards a pending trial to help cure Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries. Overall, he’s raised more than $350,000 between his 17 professional bouts, three charity galas and other events.

 

On the 16th, Melson will present the game ball to officials while being escorted by Johns Hopkins’ ROTC cadets and the school will play a video at halftime titled “Still Fighting for the Cure”, which chronicles Melson’s journey to raise funds for a pending clinical trial that could impact hundreds of thousands suffering from Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries.

 

“There are so many brave men and women that serve or served our country, especially in that region” said Melson. “The fact they thought of me is amazing. Never in a thousand years did I anticipate being honored as a military star by one of the best colleges in the country for my efforts in the ring and with Team Fight to Walk. I believe the video will move those in attendance and have them feeling the same way I did the first time Christan told me her story. It is truly a blessing that I have been chosen for this at a time where we need all the support we can get as we move closer towards the trial taking place.”

 

The video can be watched by going tohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4KvLQYWQ0E. Melson also partook in a candid interview with Donna Drake on CBS talk show “Live it Up” that can be seen athttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbnXF6srafA.

 

For more information about Team Fight to Walk, please visitTeamfighttowalk.com. Tax deductible donations can be made on the website or by texting “Walk” to 20222.

 

boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

2012 U.S. OLYMPIAN JAMEL HERRING TAKES ON COLOMBIA’S LUIS EDUARDO FLORES ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS ON FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES ON FOX DEPORTES TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9 FROM SANDS BETHLEHEM EVENTS CENTER IN BETHLEHEM, PENNSYLVANIA

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Tickets On Sale Now!
 
BETHLEHEM, PA (January 11, 2016) – Undefeated 2012 U.S. Olympian Jamel Herring (14-0, 8 KOs) will battle Colombia’s Luis Eduardo Flores (21-2, 17 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight bout on Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes on Tuesday, February 9 from Sands Bethlehem Events Center in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania with televised coverage beginning at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT.
“I know the spotlight will be on me, but I will keep my cool and focus on getting the win,” said Herring. “Training has been going really well because I stay in shape year round. I know my opponent is tall and rangy and has a good punch. I am preparing myself to make adjustments and be ready for anything. I’m looking to get the win by any means necessary.”
“I will take advantage of this opportunity and I want to thank my team for getting this fight,” said Flores. “I am 100 percent positive I will win this fight. The only thing I know about Herring is that he likes to run a lot. I am coming to get a knockout and take away Herring’s ‘0’.”
“This will be another exciting event at Sands Bethlehem,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions. “We look forward to a great night of boxing featuring U.S. Olympian Jamel Herring against Luis Eduardo Flores. Herring has the makings of a future star and he will be able to show that on February 9 on FS1 and FOX Deportes.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $100, $75 and $45, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.
The 30-year-old Herring represented the United States at the 2012 Olympic games after winning the U.S. National Amateur title the same year. Fighting out of Cincinnati, Herring picked up four victories in 2015 including a dominant triumph over Yakubu Amidu in October. A former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Herring hopes to launch himself into world title contention in 2016.
A pro since 2011, the 28-year-old Flores won his first 13 pro starts, including 12 inside the distance. Born in Magangue, Colombia, Flores will make his U.S. debut on February 9. Most recently Flores picked up wins in 2015 over Gustavo Sandoval and Francisco Herrera.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @JamelHerring, @FS1, @TheSBEC, @FoxDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes and www.Facebook.com/theSBEC. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.
boxing, Showtime Boxing

ARTUR SZPILKA AIMS TO BECOME FIRST POLISH HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, REFLECTS ON SOCCER HOOLIGAN DAYS

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Szpilka Challenges WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder

This Saturday Live on SHOWTIME® From Barclays Center in Brooklyn

 

Click HERE To Watch, Share Or Embed This Video:http://s.sho.com/1ZgecWD

 

Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

Polish heavyweight challenger Artur Szpilka is a reformed man – both in and out of the ring – since joining renowned trainer Ronnie Shields at his gym in Houston.  Szpilka, who was in a “soccer gang” in his native Poland, started working with Shields after suffering the only loss of his career in 2014 and together the team has rallied to score knockouts in all three of their fights.  Check out this video to hear Szpilka and Shields explain their plan to make history this Saturday when they challenge undefeated knockout artist and WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

 

# # #

 

Wilder vs. Szpilka, a 12-round bout for Wilder’s WBC Heavyweight title taking place on Saturday, Jan. 16 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Sferis Knockout Promotions and sponsored by Corona. Opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXINGÒ doubleheader, Charles Martin and Vyacheslav Glazkov will battle for the vacant IBF Heavyweight World Championship. The event will be televised live on SHOWTIMEÒ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. ET) and it will be available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

 

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sportsfollow on Twitter @SHOSports, @BronzeBomber, @Szpilka_Artur, @BarclaysCenter, @WarriorsBoxingProm and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter .

amateur boxing, boxing

70th annual Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves Championship Preliminary round results from Lowell

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LOWELL, Mass. (January 9, 2016) – The 70th annual Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves Championship kicked-off last night at historic Lowell Memorial Auditorium as Central New England (Greater Lowell) preliminary-round action featured 12 exciting men’s novice class matches.
The preliminary round will conclude next Friday night (Jan. 15) at Lowell Memorial Auditorium with 10 open class matches.  See complete 2016 schedule and last night’s results below.
$70 for ’70 – A special offer to celebrate the 70th edition of the Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves Championship is available to purchase: $70.00 season ticket (8 remaining events) in the balcony.  To purchase call the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office at1.866.722.8881 or order online at www.LowellMemorialAuditorium.com. Individual event tickets are also available to purchase for $17.00, $15.00 or $12.00.
Proceeds from the Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves Championship go towards sending the New England Golden Gloves champions to the National Golden Gloves Championship (2016 in Salt Lake City, Utah), in addition to supporting local athletes and area gyms, the Boys & Girls Club, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, cancer funds, scholarships and many other great charitable causes.
Official Results
(winners listed first)
 
Men’s Novice Division
LIGHTWEIGHTS (132 lbs)
Troy Anderson (Dorchester, MA, Nonantum Boxing)
DEC3 (3-2)
Alex Rivera (Malden, MA, Somerville Youth Boxing)
LIGHT WELTERWEIGHTS (141 lbs.)
Edwin Rozon (Haverhill, MA, Haverhill Downtown Boxing)
DEC3 (5-0)
David Santini (Wilmington, MA, Union Street Boxing)
Mark Butler (Lowell, MA, Lowell West End)
TKO2 (2:00)
Joseph Collins (Derry, N.H., Union Street Boxing)
WELTERWEIGHTS (152 lbs.)
Anthony DeSalvo (Roslindale, MA, George Foreman)
DEC3 (3-2)
Justin Logue (Watertown, MA, Boston Boxing)
Lipi Fernandez (Roxbury, MA, Welch’s Gym)
DEC3 (3-2)
James Hoyt (Lawrence, MA, Lawrence Boxing)
Jaime Cabrera (Nashua, NH, Nashua PAL)
DEC3 (3-2)
Drew Bowden (Boston, MA, George Foreman)
MIDDLEWEIGHTS (165 lbs.)
Nathan Balakin (Tyngsboro, MA, Lowell West End)
DEC3 (4-1)
Richard Jones (Revere, MA, Somerville Boxing)
Joseph DaSilva (Gloucester, MA, Gloucester Boxing Club)
DEC3 (3-2)
Travis Mazac (Revere, MA, Somerville Boxing)
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS (178 lbs.)
Daniel McNamara (Allston, MA, Boston Boxing)
DEC3 (5-0)
Simon Taylor (Bedford, MA, MK Boxing)
Yancarlos Sanchez (Dorchester, MA, Quietman Gym)
DEC3 (3-2)
Geovanny Lorenzo (Roslindale, MA, Gentlemen’s Gym)
HEAVYWEIGHTS (201 lbs.)
Jared Gately (Franklin, MA, Welch’s Gym)
DEC3 (3-2)
Luke Yetten (Waltham, MA, Boston Boxing)
SUPER HEAVYWEIGHTS (201+ lbs.)
Ryan Brooks (Weymouth, MA, Grealish Boxing)
DEC3 (3-2)
Brian Bannon (Newton, MA, Nonantum Boxing)
70th annual Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves Championship Schedule
(Lowell Memorial Auditorium – 6:30 p.m. doors open, 7:30 p.m. first bout)
Central New England (Greater Lowell)
Preliminary Round – Friday, Jan. 15
Quarterfinal Round – Friday, Jan. 22
Open & Novice Class Semifinals, C.N.E. – Thursday, Jan. 28
Open & Novice Class Championship Finals – Thursday, Feb. 4
New England Tournament of Champions
Novice Class Semifinals – Thursday, Feb. 11
Novice Class Championship Finals – Feb. 18
Open Class Semifinals – Wednesday, Feb. 24
Open Class Championship Finals – Thursday, Feb. 25
Information:
Tournament Executive Director: Bobby Russo
Director of Contestants: Art Ramalho
Chief of Officials:  Lauri Purcell
Ring Announcer:  John Vena
Venue:  Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 Merrimack St., Lowell, MA
Twitter:  @LowellGloves
boxing, Showtime Boxing

DEONTAY WILDER VS. ARTUR SZPILKA &  CHARLES MARTIN VS. VYACHESLAV GLAZKOV  MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL TRANSCRIPT

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Lou DiBella
Thank you very much and welcome to the, final conference call for the SHOWTIME Championship Boxing show, January 16 of this new year at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The show will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME. It’s a world championship, heavyweight championship doubleheader.
These are the first two heavyweight title fights in over 100 years in Brooklyn on the same night, 115 years since the last heavyweight title fight in Brooklyn. And there’ll be two on the same night on January 16 on SHOWTIME.
The first bout will be for the vacant IBF Heavyweight World Championship between Charles Martin and the highest ranked contender in the IBF, former Olympic Bronze Medalist, Vyacheslav “Czar” Glazkov. The main event will be Deontay Wilder, the Heavyweight Champion of the World of the WBC who is defending his title against the very colorful and exciting Artur Szpilka.
We’re going to start with Stephen Espinoza, the man who runs SHOWTIME Boxing and who has put together this great card for us.
Stephen Espinoza
Thank you, Lou. As some of you know, 2016 represents the 30th anniversary of SHOWTIME Championship Boxing. The very first fight at SHOWTIME was telecast on March 10, 1986 and featured Marvelous Marvin Hagler versus John Mugabi. We’ve had a variety of high-profile fighters and fights since.
To kick off our 30th anniversary year, I can’t think of a better way to do it than at Barclays Center in Brooklyn with a doubleheader of heavyweight title fights. There is going to be some explosive action. We have some really entertaining, interesting personalities. In fact, I can’t wait to see what the rest of this all holds.
L. DiBella
I’m going to start with the man who is the leading available contender in the IBF, and he is going to fighting Charles Martin for the IBF Heavyweight Championship. Czar Glazkov, 21-0-1, 13 KOs from the Ukraine originally, now fighting out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He’s a 2007 Silver Medalist at the World Amateur Boxing Championship and a 2008 Olympic Bronze Medalist at Super Heavyweight.
Manager extraordinaire, Egis Klimas is on the call, and he will do the translating for Czar Glazkov. Czar is promoted by Main Events and Kathy Duva of Main Events will be co-promoting this fight with us.
Egis Klimas
Hello, everybody. This is Egis, manager of Vyacheslav Glazkov. We’re very happy to have a title shot, the world title of the IBF. We wanted to thank our promoter Main Events for doing such a good job for bringing Glazkov to this opportunity. I am very fortunate to represent Mr. Glazkov. I’ve been doing it for four years, and this is a big shot for him to become the world champion.
I would like to introduce to you, Vyascheslav Glazkov, the contender for the IBF Title.
Vyaschelav Glazkov
Yes. Hello, everybody. This is Vyacheslav Glazkov. This is a great opportunity for me and a really good chance for me to win the World Championship.
L. DiBella
Charles Martin, 22-0-1 with 20 KOs, born in St. Louis, Missouri, now from Carson, California. Charles is a huge physical specimen at 6’5″. The 29-year-old knockout artist was an accomplished amateur. He won the 2012 National PAL Championship. Charles is something of an unknown commodity to a lot of people. He is the number three-ranked IBF contender and is looking forward to his opportunity and what he thinks is going to be a knockout win against Vyacheslav Glazkov.
Charles, would you like to say a few words, please?
Charles Martin
Yes. I’m so thankful to be in this position and blessed to get a world title shot, and that’s what all boxers dream of. It’s finally becoming a reality to me. I’m not going to let anything stand in front of me of receiving this IBF title. So I will be prepared on January 16th.
I’m up in high altitude right now. I’m in the snow. I’m running in the snow. I’m getting it, grinding with it, and it’s going to all show in the rings.
L. DiBella
Thank you, Charles. Charles is promoted by Warriors Boxing in Florida, so they will also be a co-promoter of this title fight.
I would open it up now to questions for Vyacheslav Glazkov and Charles Martin.
Q
Can you take me through the decision-making process of dropping out of your fight with Dominic Breazeale in December?
C. Martin
I’m glad you asked that because I wanted to do both of the fights. My team is the one that talked me out of it. I was up here making plans to do both. They’re like, yes, yes, you know, that’s right, that’s right. With the conversation with my coaches, I’m like, I can do this fight. I can get this another way. Then I’m lined up right here.
My manager and everybody else, they’re like, “Hey, this is a world title opportunity. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime. You fight for a world title. So we’re pulling out. You’re going to back to camp and get this belt.” I guess after a while it sunk in and it started to make sense. And I said, “Hey, you know, whatever. Let’s just do it.” Because anything could happen.
You could get cut or something, any kind of crazy stuff that could have pulled me out of this fight. But I guarantee I was going to knock Dominic out. That’s automatic, you know what I mean? We know each other. I would have knocked him out, for sure.
Q
You’re talking about Breazeale, who you know?
C. Martin
Yes, Dominic Breazeale. I would have knocked him out.
Q
When you did make that decision to withdraw from the fight, did you stay straight through in camp. Did you at least take a couple of days off? Did you do anything over the holidays? Or did you just basically stay in camp and just work all the way through it?
C. Martin
Yes, I took a week off. I took that week off and then we got back to camp. I started back training when I was in L.A.. I live in North Hollywood, so we have a gym right there. These guys they sponsor me and I got a gym right there. Me and my coaches got in there and we were hitting pads and we’re doing workouts, doing pushups and callisthenic-type of movements.
Then we got right back up here into the high altitude, man. We are in Big Bear right now. We’ve been here for a few weeks now. We’ve been up here grinding, man. We’re getting it in. I’m in perfect shape. I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in my life. I’m ready to fight.
Q
When you look at the record of Glazkov, does it make you think to yourself, I better really get rid of this guy because I cannot leave it in the hands of the judges?
C. Martin
I don’t even take the time to think about those kind of things because he’s never been in the ring with a fighter like me. I’m no Cunningham. I’m no Tor Hamer. I’m none of these guys that he fought.
I’m totally a different fighter than he’s ever seen. So come fight night, I’m ready to prove it to the whole wide world. I’m ready to be that superstar. We train like superstars. If you’re going to train mediocre, you’ll be mediocre, and that’s what I see out of a lot of fighters, heavyweights, especially. But we train to be a superstar and that’s what you guys are going to see.
Q
Has everything changed in the mindsets for a fighter like yourself after Klitschko’s loss?
C. Martin
It was going to open up eventually. Klitschko had a very good run. His whole career was outstanding. He’s an awesome fighter. But it’s our time now. There are new fighters on the map. We had big plans to knock him out as well. We wanted to knock him out and become superstars overnight. Everybody got the dream.
It’s here now, man. I get to fight for the IBF World Title. I can’t believe it. Every day I wake up. I think I’m freaking blessed. I’m fighting for a world title. This is crazy. Sometimes it doesn’t even sound right, but it’s real. So I’m going to seize the moment, definitely.
V. Glazkov
Well, I think right now the heavyweights are going to be very interesting because of all the titles getting a split around. There is going to be more champions, and that’s what the fan always like because for many years it was all one person. I’m looking forward to see what is going to be happening in the heavyweight division.
Q
This is for both fighters. I just want to know if one of you, unless there is a draw, wins this title next weekend, are you anxious to unify with either the WBC champion or with Tyson Fury?
V. Glazkov
Yes, of course. This is the dream of every fighter to get all the titles because I truly believe the real champion is whoever is holding all four titles.
C. Martin
Yes, I want it all. As soon as I get this belt, I want to unify. I want everything. I want all the hardware. Look out for “Prince” Charles Martin. I’m here to make a statement and you guys are going to see, finally. I’ve been under wraps a long time but now the world can see me display my skill. Yes, I can’t wait to unify. I want everything.
Q
Charles, do you think that Glazkov is a pretty decent step up in competition on paper from who else you fought? I’d like your assessment of him as a boxer and what you think he brings to the table.
C. Martin
Yes. He’s definitely a step up on paper. His resume reads well. He’s a good fighter. He’s technical, keeping his hands up and stuff like that, has a pretty nice hook. But I got to give you the ups and the downs. He’s a little guy. I’m massive, strong, powerful, elusive. He’s definitely going to be in there for the hardest fight of his life that he’ll ever have.
Q
Czar, you heard what Charles said. He called you a little guy. I’d like your reaction to and what you think of Martin technically. Have you seen tape on him? What do you think of him as a fighter?
V. Glazkov
I respect all of my opponents. Anybody who steps into the ring is doing a very good job. As far as him as a boxer, what can I say? He’s a big dude. He’s a southpaw. I soak up all of his videos. He’s not the standard guy. He’s not a normal guy, but that’s why I’m picking up my sparring partners. That’s why I’m working and preparing for the fighting.
Q
Czar, What’s your prediction for this fight?
V. Glazkov
I’m not going to be saying that I’m going to knock him out. I’m not going to be aiming to knock him out. I’m just going to be fighting and showing everybody my good skills with boxing. If it’s a knockout coming, it’s going to come.
L. DiBella
This is a significant fight. There is a belt at stake. There is an Olympic Medalist fighting a massive American heavyweight, as Charles accurately described himself, and also extremely charismatic and English-speaking American heavyweight that this fight can bring in major new player to the forefront in the heavyweight division. So it’s a very significant fight.
I thank you guys for joining us, and we’ll see you next week.
Now we’re going to move on to the main event of the evening, Deontay Wilder’s third defense of his WBC Heavyweight Championship of the World against Artur Szpilka, who is promoted by Warriors Boxing. If you’ve been following this promotion or listened to our first call, you’ll know that Artur’s English has gotten much better and he’s never at a loss for words nor is he at a loss for confidence.
I know that Deontay is looking forward to fighting a guy that’s looking to bring the fight and is this confident in his own skills and his ability.
Artur, would you like to say a few words to start?
A. Szpilka
Welcome to everybody. The new heavyweight champion is here. You’ll see. I wait for questions.
L. DiBella
Well, the man who believes he is going to be the new heavyweight champion just said a couple of words. Now we’re going to go to the Heavyweight Champion, undefeated Deontay Wilder.
Deontay Wilder
Good evening everyone. Happy New Year. We’re headed into a new year. It’s going to be a hell of a year this year for not only myself but a lot of other fighters as well. There are a lot of things going on in the heavyweight division. The division is definitely alive, and I’m looking to claim it all.
I wish all the heavyweights in the division good luck on their up and coming journeys. And I definitely wish my opponent good luck on becoming the first Polish champion. That is something that has been a hard task to complete for many Polish guys.
He’s not the first to come. It’s going to be difficult for him as well, but I wish him luck. He should be proud that he made it this far, and got this opportunity. So I’m looking forward to January 16, to conquering the world.
Q
How’s training going, Deontay? How’s camp been? How’s your training? Same question for Artur.
D. Wilder
Camp has been wonderful. We’ve had a lot of wonderful guys that come in camp. I’ve always been in shape. That’s always been my motto, that I’m never out of shape. To not have fought a southpaw in three years, and to have a great camp like I’ve had, it’s been crazy.
It reminded me of why I enjoy and love fighting southpaws. I definitely had fun in this camp. I’m looking forward to the fight. I really am. This is my statement year, the start of the year. I’m looking forward to make a statement on Szpilka’s face.
A. Szpilka
Everything is great. Everything is fine. To be honest, I cannot wait to start this whole commotion. Especially I am waiting for the moment that I will be able, for the first time, to look in Deontay’s eyes, and be in the middle of this whole fight week preparation, and fight week craziness.
Q
For each fighter, what is difficult about preparing for the other guy? For Deontay, how different is it facing a southpaw, especially one that kind of fights out of a crouch? And for Szpilka, how difficult is it to prepare for someone who is so tall, and with such reach?
D. Wilder
It’s different levels of what you look at as difficult. Southpaws are my fun people to fight. You know, southpaws are people that pressure me. They are the ones I enjoy the most in sparring and actual fights and stuff like that.
There’s nothing, difficult about the southpaw, other than you’re switching sides with fighters. What you’re used to seeing is just backwards. That’s about it. Everything else is all about your feel, your determination, your IQ in the ring, and what you’re able to do with your ability.
I could put everything I got in the bank on my abilities and skill and will, and what I’m capable of doing in the ring. There’s no other heavyweight in the division like me, especially when it comes into the athletic department. I’m the most athletic heavyweight in the division.
There comes a point in time where it’s enough talking and it’s time to fight, which is what we’re doing now. We’re in the last few couple of words here, and a couple of more days. Then it’ll be time to fight. That way, every fighter has something to say about what they’re going to do.
There comes a time when you have to put forth the action, and actually see whether you’re really just talking to promote yourself, just to sell yourself, or to build your confidence, or build confidence around you, the people that you have inside, or are you the real deal. And I’m pretty sure that I can put every penny on it that I’m the real deal, and what I talk about, I put full action in.
What I’m saying I’m going to, I’ll do it. Everybody that knows me personally knows that if Deontay says he’s going to do something, it’s going to be done. So it’s exciting times, and I can’t wait. I really can’t. I’m in love with boxing. I’m in love with the sport. I love fighting. I love every bit of it and this is just a part of it.
This is the part I hate, just the waiting. And I’ll be so anxious to beat somebody up, just look at their face. This is the part that I hate — the waiting part. I’m ready for the fight. I’m ready to fight. Training is enough. I could have taken off that last little week of training, I didn’t need it.
I’m ready. I didn’t need the last week of training. I didn’t need the last week of strength training. I don’t need that. These guys could have went home. If I wasn’t paying my sparring partners, I would have sent them home.
But I don’t believe in giving out free money, so they had to stay and they had to spar — not to the point that they didn’t give me no work, because they gave me great work. It’s just to the point where I am super-ready. I’m just done, ready.
I’m looking forward to it, and I hope everybody is and everyone who is going to be attending this fight, who all’s going to be attending it or watching it on TV. They’re in for a treat. They’re in for a huge treat, just to start the year off.
I’m excited about the new year, that we get to start it off, make a statement. I want this fight to be already the fight of the year, and this is just the beginning of the year. So that’s what excitement I’m trying to bring to this fight. I’m trying to bring a severe knockout.
I want to get back to my knockout days. My hands were still out of all this time, last year my hand was about 85% when I defended my title. Now it’s, looking back, strong as ever. It’s back to 100%, and I’m looking to go back to where I used to be — four rounds or under.
A. Szpilka
For now I’m just ready to step into the ring. I also like to fight taller fighters. All the time when I’m spending time in Houston with my trainer, this is what we train for. I understand the training is not the actual fight. But I always liked the taller fighters.
Whatever Deontay is saying just makes no sense. I don’t believe in his words, and I will be able to prove it in the ring on the 16th. But for now, it’s just talk by Deontay.
Q
Everybody was just really looking forward to 2016’s Klitschko against Wilder. How disappointed were you when Klitschko just didn’t show up?
D. Wilder
I was very disappointed that Klitschko didn’t show up and do the things that we expected of him and what he was capable of doing. It could be many reasons why that Klitschko didn’t show up, because that wasn’t him as a fighter. Klitschko as a person, his body was there, but as a fighter, something was missing. That isn’tt what we’re used to seeing out of Wladimir Klitschko.
I think Father Time has knocked on his door, and he don’t want to let him in yet. But, I think it’s knocking at his door, and that fight proved it.
There’s talk of a rematch, and I’m going to see the second time around. So some people are still in daze of belief, because they can’t believe what they’ve seen.
Just like my career, many times, people make excuses for me. They say different things; even criticize me because they can’t understand why I’m able to do what I do, and how I do it when I do it. So, it’s the same thing as Klitschko. So we’re going to see the second time around, was this real?
Q
Does it mean extra to you to be fighting in such a new arena in the borough of Brooklyn?
D. Wilder
I’m very happy and honored to be able to be able to fight in Brooklyn. Barclays Center as well with so much rich heavyweight history throughout the state of New York. I’m so looking forward to finally putting my name down in history.
I definitely want to come in in the new year, and not only put history down, but in a great fashion; make a great statement to all the others that are in the division. This is a fine time for me. 2016 is going to be a starting time as well, so just making the whole division back and exciting again.
It’s definitely an exciting time and I’m just happy to be a part of it, and bringing that excitement truly back to the heavyweight division. I may be a country boy, but I don’t think the city’s ready for this boy right here.
Q
My first question is to Szpilka. Where are you guys at right now with the drug testing?
A. Szpilka
I’m still waiting. I’m still waiting. I don’t know why.
D. Wilder
Well I don’t know what he’s talking about. I just went to LabCorp yesterday and got blood drawn for the fight. So this is a championship fight. You’re not going to have a championship fight without being drug-tested. Period. So whether the test is happening before the fight, or whether the test happens after the fight, there will be a drug test.
Q
Is this camp different compared to all the other camps that you guys went through?
D. Wilder
This camp has been one of the most fun camps for the simple fact that I haven’t been involved with a southpaw in like three years. To get my brain back in functioning how to defeat a southpaw, it has been fun. I can’t say challenging, because I had too much fun doing it.
I can’t wait to show you everything that I have to offer. Just as I developing my skill, I develop everything I’ve learned over the years, and apply them in the ring.
Like I said before, I keep saying that I want it to be embedded in you guys’ brains that 2016 belongs to Deontay Wilder, where he will unify the division. There hasn’t been one since 1999. That was Lennox Lewis. Now I must make history. I can’t let any man get in my way from that.
If any man feels that I’m just talk, like Szpilka says, he thinks I’m just talk. There’s never been anything I said that I haven’t done. But we’ve seen him, many times, talk. We’ve recently seen him say the same shit he’s talking about now. And what happened? He ended up becoming the loser.
Everything I’ve said I’ve backed up. That’s why I’m still the champ. That’s why I am a winner. And the thing about it, my 10,000 hours is coming up – of training is coming up (unintelligible). So now I’m coming up four complete fighters now. I understand my abilities and skills inside that ring, and those 10,000 hours is definitely approaching.
I’m looking forward to the world embracing me, and to continue being the heavyweight champ of the world, soon to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
A. Szpilka
Just like I said before, and just like Deontay said before, I also could have skipped the last week of training. Everything is done. Everything is prepared. Right now it’s just waiting. So we’re going to find out who is who on January 16.
Q
I wonder what you think about the fact that you’re fighting in Deontay’s home country, but chances are you’re going to be the one that everybody’s cheering for?
A. Szpilka
There is no doubt that my crowd, the Polish crowd, will be predominant on January 16 in Barclays Center. They will be like additional gloves in the ring for me. They’re going to carry me to be a winner, to be a champion, something special. I’m going to fight also for them.
Q
What would it mean to you to become the first Polish heavyweight to win a world title?
A
This is the most important part of this fight for me, not even to become a world champion. It’s not about that. It’s about to be part of the history; becoming the first Polish heavyweight champion; to be the one when, even after I’m going to be dead, people are going to say, oh, this was the Szpilka guy, the guy who was the first Polish heavyweight champion. This is what I want to do, and this is what I’m going to prove to everybody onJanuary 16.
L. DiBella
Well thank you, Artur, and thank you, Deontay. That’ll be our last question. Once again, the Showtime telecast will begin at 10:00 ET/7:00 PT. But there are tickets still available at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, and we urge people to come out.
This is a rare opportunity to see the heavyweight champion of the world defend his title, and to see another heavyweight championship contested — two heavyweight title fights in one night, Barclays Center, January 16, on SHOWTIME Championship Boxing.
Tickets again are at Ticketmaster.com, by calling Ticketmaster; Barclays Center.com; by going to Barclays Center box office. We hope to see you in Brooklyn. Deontay and Artur, we’ll see you next week in Brooklyn, and we look forward to a great event on January 16. Thank you all for joining us.
# # #
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @BronzeBomber, @Szpilka_Artur, @BarclaysCenter, @WarriorsBoxingProm and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

UNDEFEATED ALEJANDRO LUNA TAKES ON MEXICO’S ALAN HERRERA AS PART OF ACTION PACKED UNDERCARD SATURDAY, JANUARY 23 FROM STAPLES CENTER IN LOS ANGELES

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PLUS! TOP LOCAL PROSPECTS ROUND OUT THE NIGHT OF FIGHTS
 
Undefeated Danny Garcia Battles Former Champion Robert Guerrero In
PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Primetime Main Event
 
LOS ANGELES (January 7, 2016) – Undefeated lightweight Alejandro “El Charro” Luna (19-0, 14 KOs) will meet Mexico’s Alan Herrera (34-7, 22 KOs) in a 10-round bout as part of a full night of undercard action on Saturday, January 23 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
The event is headlined by the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX and FOX Deportes telecast that features three exciting contests in primetime. In the main event undefeated Danny “Swift” Garcia and former world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero battle in a 12-round welterweight bout. Preliminary action on FOX begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated rising star Sammy “The Sergeant” Vasquez taking on Los Angeles-native Aron Martinez, plus a matchup between heavyweights Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale and Amir “Hardcore” Mansour.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Swift Promotions, are priced at $300, $200, $100, $50 and $25, not including applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or by phone at 888-929-7849 or at STAPLES Center.
 
Additional undercard action features South Korea’s Min Wook Kim (12-1, 10 KOs) in a junior welterweight attraction and 22-year-old Mexican-American Luis Bello (6-3, 2 KOs) in a six-round lightweight bout.
Rounding out the exciting night of fights is the pro debut of Los Angeles’ Sergio Quiroz in a six-round super bantamweight affair, cousin of undefeated star Leo Santa Cruz, Antonio Santa Cruz (1-1, 1 KO) in a four-round bantamweight fight and Huntington Park, California’s Jose Gomez (4-0) in four-rounds of featherweight action.
 
At just 24-years old, Lunahas already put together an impressive 19 professional wins since turning pro in 2010. Fighting out of Bellflower, California, he defeated former world champion Cristobal Cruz over eight rounds in June and knocked out Sergio Lopez in August to close his 2015. Before 2015 he had put together victories over experienced fighters Daniel Attah and Sergio Rivera while knocking out six of his last nine opponents.
Opposite Luna will be the battle-tested Herrera out of Sinaloa, Mexico. Herrera was featured in a 2014 Fight of the Year candidate in Pittsburgh against hometown favorite Monta Meza Clay. The outstanding two way action inside of the ring thrilled the electric crown and nationally televised audience as both men showed incredible bravery before the fight was stopped in the 10th and final round. Herrera has won his last two fights and is coming off of a knockout of Isaias Cabrera.
A pro since 2010, the 28-year-old Kim dropped his debut but has reeled off 13 wins since then. After fighting in his native South Korea and China for the first several years of his career, Kim knocked out Lizandro De Los Santos in Mexico in March before stopping Luis Alberto Pelayo in his U.S. debut in July.
 
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage,www.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @DannySwift @GhostBoxing, @SammyV2112, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX.