Category Archives: Fox Sports 1

UNBEATEN RISING STAR JULIAN WILLIAMS TAKES ON ARGENTINA’S LUCIANO CUELLO IN SUPER WELTERWEIGHT BATTLE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 FROM SANDS BETHLEHEM EVENT CENTER IN BETHLEHEM, PA AS FOX SPORTS 1 TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS
MAIN EVENT
 
Plus Undefeated Moises Flores Takes On Knockout Artist
Luis Emanuel Cusolito In Televised Opener – 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
BETHLEHEM, PA. (September 3, 2015) – Philadelphia’s unbeaten rising star Julian “J-Rock” Williams (20-0-1, 12 KOs) will fight near his hometown when he takes on Argentina’s Luciano “El Principito” Cuello (35-3, 17 KOs) in an 10-round super welterweight showdown at Sands Bethlehem Event Center in Bethlehem, PA. on Tuesday, September 22 as the main event of TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FOX Sports 1.
The telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten super bantamweight Moises “Chucky” Flores (23-0, 16 KOs) facing Argentine knockout artist Luis Emanuel “La Ardilla” Cusolito (21-1, 19 KOs) in a 12-round battle.
“I’m excited to be headlining this show. It’s a good kind of pressure and I’m ready for it,” said Williams. “I hope that my hometown of Philadelphia comes out to support me because I plan on putting on an electric performance. I have a lot of respect for Cuello, but I haven’t lost a round in eight fights and I plan on keeping that going.”
“I am very pleased with this opportunity and I plan on pulling off the upset,” said Cuello. “Williams is very talented but he has never been in deep waters with someone like me. I will be too much for him.”
“This is going to be a great card and I am excited to be part of the PBC series,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions. “I have admired Julian Williams since his amateur days and have always wanted to work with him. Cuello is a real tough guy and has shown to give the top contenders great fights. I am extremely pleased and excited about the whole card and I expect Flores vs. Cusolito to be an explosive bout.”
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.
One of the most highly regarded young stars in boxing, Williams has spent 2015 staking his claim as a legitimate contender in the 154-pound division. He shut out longtime contender Joey Hernandez in April and followed that up with a sixth-round stoppage of Arman Ovsepyan in June. The 25-year-old from Philadelphia has also picked up victories over Joachim Alcine, Eliezer Gonzalez and Freddy Hernandez in his young career and looks to continue rising up the ranks at 154-pounds when he faces Cuello.
Born in Buenos Aires but fighting out of Madrid, Spain, Cuello has spent most of his pro career fighting in those two countries. He’s fought in the U.S. once in his career and hopes to make a mark on September 22. Winner of his first 22 pro fights; he won titles in South America with victories over Carlos Wilfredo Vilches and Samir Santos Barbosa. The 31-year-old enters this fight with three straight victories including a dominant performance against previously unbeaten Martin Fidel Rios.
The 28-year-old Flores is rapidly rising up the super bantamweight division and solidified his contender status when he took down Oscar Escandon in a gutsy performance in April. He also owns victories over previously unbeaten Mario Munoz, Oscar Arenas and Rodolfo Hernandez. Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, he will be making his east coast debut in his fourth U.S. start.
A hard-hitting Argentine from Buenos Aires, Cusolito has knocked out his last five opponents and 19 of 21 throughout his career. The 27-year-old won the first 14 starts of his career, including 13 by knockout. His U.S. debut will come on September 22 when he looks to be the first to add a blemish to Flores’ now perfect record.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @JRockBoxing, @PrincipeCuello, @FOXSports1, @TheSBEC and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/the SBEC.

Middleweight KO Artist Caleb Plant Returns To The Ring Tuesday Sept 22 on Fox Sports 1

Photo By Lucas Noonan
NASHVILLE, TN (September 2, 2015) – Undefeated Middleweight prospect, Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant (9-0, 8 KOs), makes a speedy return to the ring as he will face an opponent TBA on Tuesday, September 22, 2015 at the Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.  The Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Fox Sports 1 will televise the card headlined by Julian Williams vs. Luciano Cuello.  Plant will open up the telecast which begins at 9PM ET / 6PM PT live on Fox Sports 1.
With seven first round knockouts to his credit, Plant, a rising star, is rapidly establishing himself as one of the most feared fighters in the middleweight division.  He’s currently riding a seven fight knockout streak, having gone the distance only once in his career.
In his last bout, which took place on August 15, 2015, Plant demolished late sup Zoltan Sera (20-6, 12 KOs) by way of a first round knockout. Look for Caleb Plant to continue with an aggressive style when he steps into the ring on Sept, 22.
“Although I have a few first round knockouts, I really like to take my time and pick my shots in my fights,” said Caleb Plant. “Fortunately, I’ve been able to get my opponents hurt early and get them out of there.  I’m prepared to go the distance if I have to, but there is no doubt, if I get my opponent hurt, I’m going for the knockout.”
Fighting on television for the first time in his last outing, Plant is relishing on the fact that his fight will be broadcasted live on Fox Sports 1.  Managed by Al Haymon, Plant sees a bright future.
“It’s really exciting to know all my fans and family back home will be able to tune in and watch me fight,” Plant continued. “In addition, those who haven’t had a chance to see me in action, will now get their opportunity.  When you have a person like Al Haymon in your corner, it’s a very satisfying feeling, because you with hard work opportunities will be there.  My goal is to keep working hard and take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way.  I’m very pleased to be making a quick return to the ring.”

AHMED ELBIALI TO FACE PENA ON FOX SPORTS 1

 Photo By Team Elbiali
MIAMI, FL (September 2, 2015) – On Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at the Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California, undefeated light heavyweight power puncher, Ahmed Elbiali (11-0, 10 KOs) is scheduled to fight on the televised portion of the Premier Boxing Champions on Fox Sports 1 card headlined by Austin Trout (29-2, 16 KOs) vs. Joey Hernandez (24-3-1, 14 KOs).  Elbiali will face an Fabiano Pena (12-3-1, 8 KOs) in an 8-round bout.  The PBC telecast will begin at 9PM ET / 6PM PTlive on Fox Sports 1.
Elbiali, who’s known for having heavy hands, is one of the most exciting fighters in the light heavyweight division. With a 90% knockout ratio, Elbiali is being touted as the next great knockout artist.  He’ll look to continue that trend against Pena.
“I’m always looking to end the fight early if I get my opponent hurt,” said Ahmed Elbiali. “A couple of fights ago I went the distance for the first time and I felt good knowing I can fight into the later rounds if need be. I love to let my hands fly and bring exciting fights to the fans. That’s what I try to do in all my fights. On September 8th, I’ll be looking to do the same.”
With Al Haymon guiding the career of Elbiali, sky is the limit.
“Working with Al Haymon has been great for my career.” Elbiali continued. “Fighting on TV once again is bringing great exposure my fighting style, and I’m very appreciative to Haymon for all his hard work.  My goal is to become a world champion and be known as one of the most exciting fighters in my division.”
Tickets priced $28.50 – $78.50 not including fees, are on sale in person at the Palladium box office or online at here.  Doors open at 5PM PT, with the first televised fights starting at 6PM PT.

EXCITING WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDER SAMMY VASQUEZ RETURNS TO HIS HOMETOWN TO TAKE ON JOSE LOPEZ AS PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONSON FOX SPORTS 1 COMES TO THE CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA CONVOCATION CENTER IN CALIFORNIA, PA. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 AT 9 P.M. ET/6 P.M. PT

 
Plus Thomas Williams & Umberto Savigne Square-Off
In Light Heavyweight Rumble
 
Tickets Are On Sale Now!
 
PITTSBURGH, PA (August 19, 2015) – Undefeated hometown favorite Sergeant  Sammy “The Who Can Mexican” Vasquez (19-0, 13 KOs) will enter the ring in his own backyard as he battles it out with Jose “Piston” Lopez (25-3, 15 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight match-up on the September 15 edition of FS1’s TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS.
The event will air live from the California University of Pennsylvania Convocation Center in California, PA. with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
This fight is the second installment of Premier Boxing Champions’ FOX Sports 1 series and is set to bring another exciting world-class fight to weekday television. The co-main event on September 15 will see a 10-round light heavyweight clash between Thomas Williams (18-1, 12 KOs) and Umberto Savigne (12-2, 9 KOs).
“The best feeling in boxing is fighting back in your hometown,” said Vasquez. “To be on FOX Sports 1 and to be headlining in my hometown, there isn’t anything better. I’m truly blessed to have this opportunity.”
“I’m very excited for this opportunity,” said Lopez. “I know I will be the underdog and the fans will start out rooting for Vasquez, but I will show them I have the heart of a champion. It will be a great fight for all the fans watching.”
Vasquez is coming off of a victory over Nigerian knockout artist Wale Omotoso in June in a bloody brawl that Vasquez won by unanimous decision. His toughest challenge to date, Vasquez showed that he has the skills to box on the outside and bang inside when necessary. With another victory over the tough “Piston”, he hopes to prove that he is ready for top welterweights such as Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter and Danny Garcia.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Team Vasquez Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $60 and $30, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.eventbrite.com. To charge by phone call Team Vasquez at (724) 797-8694.
The 29-year-old Vasquez has fought professionally since 2012, after serving two tours of duty in Iraq as a member of the National Guard. He made it to the semifinals of the 2012 U.S. Olympic trials and won gold at the 2010 and 2011 Armed Forces Boxing Championships. The fighter out of Monessen, Penn., has not lost as a professional and looks to further improve his stock in the welterweight division.
A slugger who always competes in action-packed fights, Lopez will make his U.S. debut on September 15. Fighting out of Coahuila de Zaragoza, Mexico, the 24-year-old has racked up wins over Jorge Paez Jr., Jhonny Navarrete, Jose Emilio Perea and Mahonri Montes over his five-year career. He hopes to make a strong impression on American audiences when he tries to upset the hometown fighter Vasquez.
At 27-years-old, Williams is looking to take out another tough contender on his road to title contention. The Fort Washington, Maryland-born fighter owns victories over Enrique Ornela, Cornelius White and Yusaf Mack throughout his career. He most recently dominated Michael Gbenga on his way to earning a unanimous decision in December 2014.
Born in Cuba but fighting now out of Miami, Savigne won a gold medal at the 1999 Pan American Games and the 2000 Cuban National Championships. He has beaten Jeff Lacy, Maxell Taylor and previously unbeaten fighters Jackson Junior and Quinton Rankin since turning pro in 2009. The 36-year-old fights for the second time in Pittsburgh on September 15.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com andhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @SammyV2112, @TopDoggJr, @FoxSports1, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.

FORMER WORLD CHAMPION AUSTIN TROUT TAKES ON JOEY HERNANDEZ IN THE MAIN EVENT OF THE INAUGURAL PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON FOX SPORTS 1 EVENT SEPTEMBER 8TH LIVE FROM THE HOLLYWOOD PALLADIUM 9 P.M. ET/6 P.M. PT

 
Plus! Undefeated Rising Star Jorge Lara Faces Jesus Rojas
In Junior Featherweight Showdown
 
Tickets on Sale Today At 2 P.M. PT for FS1’s Toe-to-Toe Tuesdays!
 
HOLLYWOOD, CA (August 12, 2015) – Former world champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout (29-2, 16 KOs) takes on Joey “Twinkle Fingers” Hernandez (24-3-1, 14 KOs) in a super welterweight attraction as part of FS1’s TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS live from the legendary Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California Tuesday, September 8th.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with a junior featherweight showdown between undefeated rising star Jorge Lara (27-0-1, 19 KOs) and Jesus Rojas (21-1-1, 15 KOs). This show will be the first installment of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports 1.
“I’m very excited to be fighting for the fourth time in Los Angeles and at such a legendary venue as The Palladium in Hollywood,” said Trout. “My fight against Joey Hernandez kicks off the brand new series on Fox Sports 1 and I plan on putting on a spectacular show for the fans. I’m one of the best fighters at 154-pounds and I’m ready to prove it again.”
“This is a big fight for me and I’m grateful to have the opportunity on this stage,” said Hernandez. “I’m coming with no fear and I’m coming to win. I respect what Austin Trout has done in the sport but I’m going to make his life miserable on September 8.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $78.50, $53.50 and $28.50, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale today at 2 p.m. PT. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.
In 2004, Trout won the U.S. National Amateur welterweight championship and after climbing up the ranks as an elite pro boxer, he won a super welterweight world championship in 2004 by defeating Rigoberto Alvarez. He went on to defend that title four times, including a dominant victory over Miguel Cotto in New York. He is currently on a three-fight win streak and is looking for a big win over Hernandez.
Fighting out of Miami, Hernandez is known for his fast hands that have landed him in big fights against top super welterweights and aided him to victories against Jose Berrio, James Winchester and Angel Hernandez. The 30-year-old southpaw will get another tough test when he takes on Trout on September 8.
Undefeated out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Lara made his U.S. debut on March 7with a first round stoppage of Mario Macias in Las Vegas. The 24-year-old has ended seven of his last eight opponents early including experienced contenders Jovanny Soto, Jairo Hernandez and Oscar Ibarra. His second opportunity in the U.S. will see him step up in competition to take on the once-beaten Rojas.
Representing Caguas, Puerto Rico, Rojas will be fighting for the first time in California as a professional on September 8. The 28-year-old comes into the fight on a three-match winning streak, having not lost since 2008. He owns victories over Juan Carlos Pena, Jose Luis Araiza and Reynaldo Lopez and hopes to add an even more impressive name in Lara to that list.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @NoDoubtTrout, @JoeyHernandez, @FOXSports1, @TGBPromotions, @ThePalladium and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.

CARLOS VELASQUEZ SEEKS VICTORY IN FIRST WORLD TITLE BOUT

Photo By Marlene Marquez
LAS VEGAS, NV (August 12, 2015) – Fighting in his first world title bout on Tuesday September 29, 2015, Puerto Rican super lightweight contender (WBA #9) , Carlos Velasquez (19-1, 12 KOs), is eager to give undefeated WBA World Champion, Javier Fortuna (28-0-1, 20 KOs), his first loss.  The PBC on FOX Sports 1 will televise the bout starting at 9PM ET Eastern Time / 6PM PT.  Ticket sales and venue for Fortuna vs. Velasquez will be announced shortly.
Velasquez, who represented Puerto Rico in the 2004 Olympics, is thriving at the opportunity to fulfill his childhood dream of becoming a world champion.  He believes he has advantages that will lead him to victory.  On the line with be Fortuna’s WBA World title.
“Ever since I was a young boy, I always pictured myself as a world champion,” said Velasquez. “Now I have a golden opportunity to accomplish that dream.  It won’t be easy.   Javier Fortuna is a very tough fighter with an undefeated record.  He’s considered one of the best fighters in the division.  Stylistically, he’s never been in the ring with a fighter like me.  When I bring home the belt, I hope I get credit for defeating a top fighter like Fortuna.”
Trained by boxing guru Roberto Norris, and guided by nutritionist/strength coach Ángel “Memo” Heredia, Velasquez feels he has the right team that can take him to the top.
“I believe I have a great coach in Roberto Norris, who understands Me.” continued Velasquez. “He’s got me working on all my strong points, bringing out the best in what I do best.  Memo is getting my body in top condition.  I feel great.  I’m going to be at my best when I step in the ring with Fortuna.”

UFC 183: Who will show up?


Photo Credit: UFC

The Ultimate Fighting Championship has hit it out of the park so far in 2015, with its first two major cards of the year living up to the hype of their main events. Light heavyweight champion Jon Jones dominated Daniel Cormier to prove he is the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world at UFC 182, and at the UFC’s live card in Boston, Mass., in January, Conor McGregor secured a featherweight title shot against José Aldo and wasted no time getting in his next opponent’s face.

Which brings us to UFC 183 tonight, and a main event that is considered a dream matchup by many. Anderson Silva returns to the Octagon after suffering a gruesome leg injury in his last fight against UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman in 2013. Nick Diaz also makes his return to the UFC after losing his last fight against former welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre in 2013.

Tonight’s card isn’t without its other storylines though. A pair of significant undercard fights are taking place under some controversy, as flyweight John Lineker came in overweight for his fight against Ian McCall, which is expected to determine the next no. 1 contender to the flyweight title. In the co-main event, Kelvin Gastelum came in 9 pounds overweight for his fight against Tyron Woodley, which means 30 percent of Gastelum’s fight purse actually goes to Woodley. Talk about insult to injury.

Of course, there is always the wild card with Diaz too. He plays by his own rules, having no-showed the open workouts earlier this week. Will he actually show up to the cage for tonight’s main event? It remains to be seen, though most everyone thinks he will.

So, having said all that, who do I think wins tonight?

Miesha “Cupcake” Tate (15-5) vs. Sara McMann (8-1) (Women’s bantamweight – 135 lbs.)

This is actually the main event of the preliminary card on Fox Sports 1. Tate requested to compete on this portion of the card instead of the pay-per-view card, taking a page from Urijah Faber’s playbook. Tate is also eager for a third fight with Ronda Rousey for the women’s bantamweight title. Both of these women suffered Rousey’s wrath, particularly McMann, who was demolished by Rousey in about a minute last year.

McMann is a pure wrestler with very little else to her repertoire, whereas Tate built on her established wrestling skills to become an effective striker. I think she will stuff McMann’s attempts to take this fight to the mat and use her vastly superior striking skills to keep McMann befuddled en route to a dominant victory.

Winner: Tate by unanimous decision

Jordan “Young Gun” Mein (29-9) vs. Thiago “Pitbull” Alves (25-9) (Welterweight – 170 lbs.)

Alves has alternated wins and losses in his last six fights, while Mein rides a two-fight win streak. Alves is always dangerous with his Muay Thai and striking, while Mein landed a first-round TKO victory in his last fight. This should be an exciting stand-up battle with neither guy willing to give an inch. I think Alves is the more dangerous fighter here, and will land one good shot to knock Mein silly.

Winner: Alves by second round TKO

Thales Leites (24-4) vs. Tim “The Barbarian” Boetsch (18-7) (Middleweight – 185 lbs.)

Leites comes into this fight on a roll, having won his last seven fights, with the last two coming by way of TKO. Boetsch has alternated wins and losses in his last four fights, including a TKO victory in his last fight against Brad Tavares.

Boetsch is a slow, plodding bruiser best known for derailing the Hector Lombard hype train when he first made his UFC debut. Leites is a crafty, dangerous fighter who can finish you with his hands or by submission. I think Leites will avoid Boetsch’s power and wait for Boetsch to make a mistake, where Leits will capitalize.

Winner: Leites by third round submission

Joe Lauzon (24-10) vs. Al “Raging” Iaquinta (10-3-1) (Lightweight – 155 lbs.)

You know what you’re getting with a Joe Lauzon fight. You’re going to see an exciting, action packed bout that will most likely end with him locking in a slick submission or, in the case of his fight against Jim Miller, suffering a gnarly cut that will guarantee a blood battle.

Iaquinta has been on a roll since his time on The Ultimate Fighter Live, having only lost once in his last six fights. A win against Lauzon would be a real feather in his cap and might propel him into title contendership discussion. But Lauzon is one of the best submission specialists in the UFC, and I think the crafty veteran has another submission up his sleeve.

Winner: Lauzon by second round submission

Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley (14-3) vs. Kelvin Gastelum (11-0) (Welterweight – 170 lbs.)

As mentioned above, Gastelum weighed in 9 pounds over for this fight and will forfeit 30 percent of his purse directly to Woodley. It was reported that Gastelum spent time in the hospital leading up to this fight, which contributed to him coming in overweight.

Woodley will be angry in this fight, and rightly so. It’s not fair that his opponent will have a weight advantage due to his own failure to do what he was supposed to do. Give Woodley credit for wanting to keep fighting when it would have been perfectly understandable to postpone it.

Woodley will channel his rage into a blitzkrieg of offense at Gastelum, and the lethargic and probably still-injured Gastelum will have no response.

Winner: Woodley by second round TKO

Anderson “The Spider” Silva (33-6) vs. Nick Diaz (27-9-1) (Middleweight – 185 lbs.)

This is one of the several main events that have fight fans buzzing in 2015. Many didn’t think Silva would ever walk again after his leg injury against Weidman, let alone come back to the UFC to fight. The matchup style of Diaz wanting to push the pace, get in his opponent’s face and sucker him into trading blows against Silva’s unrivaled elusiveness will be interesting to watch.

Diaz said he wouldn’t trash talk Silva during this fight out of respect. But if Silva keeps bobbing and weaving and dodging Diaz’s punches, we’ll see how long Diaz commits to that. I think we’ll see vintage Silva in this fight, making Diaz look silly in some spots while landing well-timed strikes that will confuse and frustrate Diaz, which will allow Silva to land even more.

Diaz is too tough to finish, but this fight will show that Silva still has it and is the vastly superior fighter.

Winner: Silva by unanimous decision

Chris Huntemann writes about mixed martial arts in the state of Maryland. He also contributes his thoughts to our site on the UFC, Bellator, and World Series of Fighting. Check out his blog, or follow him on Twitter: @mmamaryland.

ROBINSON CASTELLANOS WINS BIG IN SAN ANTONIO ON GOLDEN BOY LIVE!

CASTELLANOS CONQUERS THE WBC SILVER FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE AND BECOMES THE WBC FEATHERWEIGHT MANDATORY CHALLENGER

 

 

Photo Credit: Golden Boy Promotions 

 

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 27) – Starting off 2015 with impressive Golden Boy Live! show in Philadelphia on Jan. 20, Golden Boy Promotions brought the action and the high-rated show to San Antonio, Texas where Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos (21-10, 13 KOs) displayed his power against Rocky Juarez (30-11-1, 21 KOs) Monday night at Cowboys Dancehall in the headlining bout of FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes’ Golden Boy Live! series. Castellanos dominated Juarez early on in the fight with quick jabs and powerful uppercuts that continued to pressure Juarez through to the final round.  The battle between the two great seasoned fighters ended when Castellanos knocked down Juarez three times in the 12th round before winning the bout via unanimous decision with a score card of 118-106, 118-106 and 118-107. Castellanos is now the WBC Silver Featherweight Champion and becomes the mandatory challenger against current WBC Featherweight World Champion Jhonny Gonzalez.

 

“I am the mandatory and this time the champion [Johnny Gonzalez] will have to fight me,” said Castellanos.

 

Previously ranked fifth in the world by the WBC, Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico’s Robinson Castellanos, rebounded from a rocky start to win 13 of his last 14 fights, rejuvenating a career that began in 2002. His victories include a decision win over former world champion Celestino “Pelenchin” Caballero in 2013 and his biggest impact was in October 2014, when he knocked out 23-0 Ronny Rios in the fifth round.

 

ABOUT JUAREZ VS. CASTELLANOS:

“Juarez vs. Castellanos” was a 12-round bout for Juarez’ WBC Silver Featherweight Title and final featherweight title eliminator was presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra, O’Reilly Auto Parts and Mexico – Live It To Believe It!.

 

 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.comwww.leijabattahpromo.com, www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1,

www.FOXDeportes.com, follow on Twitter at @ GoldenBoyBoxing, @LeijaBattahPr,  @Swanson_comm, @FOXSports,  @FOXSports1,  @FOXDeportes  and follow the conversation using #GoldenBoyLive, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page or www.facebook.com/LeijaBattah and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing or @LeijaBattahPr.  For more information on FOX Sports 1 visit www.FOXSports.com/watch/FOXSports1 and become a follower on @FOXSports. For more information on FOX Deportes visit www.FOXDeportes.com, become a follower on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FOXDeportes  and visit www.facebook.com/FOXDeportes on Facebook.

RANDY CABALLERO VS. ALBERTO GUEVARA LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

EVENT HOSTS FUTURE AND FORMER CHAMPIONS

 

Click HERE to Download Photos

Photo Credit: Gene Blevins-Hoganphotos/Golden Boy Promotions


Los Angeles (Jan. 23) – Golden Boy Promotions held a press conference at the Golden Boy Building in Los Angeles yesterday, to announce the Feb. 27 IBF Bantamweight World Championship fight between the titleholder Randy “El Matador” Caballero and Alberto “Metro” Guevara. The event was hosted by Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions and was attended by more than 50 local and international media outlets. Seven-time world champion in four weight classes, Erik Morales and former WBC and IBF Super Bantamweight World Champion Isreal Vasquez were also in attendance.

 

Other fighters featured on the card participated in the press conference including Mexicali’s Diego De La Hoya (8-0, 6 KOs) who fights in his first eight-round bout as the co-main event against Los Angeles’ Manuel “Suavecito” Roman (17-3-3, 6 KOs).  Plus, Chinese heavyweight sensation Taishan (2-0, 2 KOs) spoke about his upcoming opening telecast bout on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes, a four-round fight against Roy McCary (3-2, 3 KOs). Also, newcomer Nick Arce (1-0, 1 KO) and the undefeated Oscar “Jaguar” Negrete (7-0, 3 KOs) discussed their upcoming fights, both against opponents yet to be announced.

 

Tickets for the event, priced at $105, $75, $55, $45 and $35 are on sale now, at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

 

Below is what the fighters had to say yesterday at the Golden Boy Building, in downtown Los Angeles:

 

Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions:  

 

“I’m really excited to be presenting to you what we call a homecoming. ‘The Homecoming’ will consist of a champion who traveled all the way to Monte Carlo and brought the world title back to Coachella. Back to where he grew up, where he trained.  Back to all his people that always supported him at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

 

“[Randy] is a champion that has always represented his roots from Nicaragua. That for many years another great champion, my idol, Alexis Arguello represented. For Randy it will be a great honor to fight in front of his public, his hometown.

 

“Thank you to FOX for this great opportunity. It’s going to be a tremendous showdown on FOX Sports 1. This is what FOX Sports 1 is all about giving you the best action not only from the future champions, but as we can see now ‘The Champion,’ Randy Caballero.

 

“We will be bringing back Fight Night Club live from downtown. That will be an exciting series. It will give us an opportunity to cultivate the next generation of Los Angeles champions.

 

“We believe in Taishan, we believe in his ability. He has talent, speed and tremendous power as demonstrated in his last two fights.  We know how to build champions; therefore we have no doubt in our mind that Taishan can become the heavyweight fighter that everyone dreams to of.

 

“It goes to show you the character in Manuel [Roman]. He’s chasing after his dream, he wants that world title, but he has to get through the next young fighter.

 

“This next fighter has the same last name as me, De La Hoya; yes he is my cousin. But this is a serious fight. This is a real fight. This is a dangerous fight. Diego is all about facing the toughest challenges. He wants to go as fast as he can towards a world title.

 

“[Alberto Guevara] has recent wins that have put him back on that championship level and now he is back challenging for a world title at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

 

“[Randy] has fought 12 times at Fantasy Springs Casino and every single time he comes out more explosive, hungrier than ever, working harder and harder, all for the fans. All to make sure that the fans leave satisfied having witnessed some great fights.”

 

 

Randy “El Matador” Caballero, Undefeated IBF Bantamweight World Champion 

 

“I want to thank Alberto for taking this fight, it’s going to be a war.

 

“I went around the world to win this title. Trust me, it wasn’t easy and I am not ready to give it up. I am going to make sure to keep it right by my side and we are going to conquer 118 pounds one fight at a time.

 

“The people on this card are great. We are glad to have it at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

 

“I’m going to make sure I am the fight of the night and you guys leave satisfied. Hopefully he is ready, because I am going to be giving it my all.  I’m not letting this title go anywhere.”

 

 

Alberto “Metro” Guevara, Bantamweight Contender

 

“I am prepared, happy, excited, and motivated. I think that on the February 27 we will win, I come with that attitude.

 

“Thanks to the champion, thanks to Golden Boy for giving me this opportunity. It is my time. I deserve it. I have worked very hard. I have the attitude. I have the talent to win the world title.

 

“I can assure you that February 27 will be a very good fight, a fight you don’t want to miss. It will be explosive and, at the end of the night, I will be the new world champion.”

 

 

Diego De La Hoya, Super Bantamweight Prospect

 

“I’m very happy to be here and very happy with my promoter that is taking me and guiding me in the right way. I’m very happy to be a part of this card and with a companion, a stable mate like Randy and to have it be at Fantasy Springs, which is like a second home to me is very exciting.

 

“I’m training hard. I’m fighting an opponent with a lot of experience. There is no other way than victory for that night. I am going to win.

 

“I want to make it clear: I’m not afraid to be fighting with fighters at this level and this much experience because I’m confident of what I’ve done: De La Hoya is going to win.”

 

 

Manuel “Suavecito” Roman, Super Bantamweight Contender                 

 

“I want to thank Golden Boy for this opportunity and all the media for supporting this event.

 

“I’m in great shape for this fight. I just recently changed trainers, I’m with Isreal Vasquez and I think he is going to benefit me a lot. Having a world champion in my corner, you’ll see some changes

 

“I know my opponent comes as an undefeated fighter so I’m getting ready for everything.”

 

 

Taishan, Heavyweight Prospect

 

“I’m so excited to see you all here to support this upcoming fight at Fantasy Springs.

 

“I want to thank Fantasy Springs Casino Resort for inviting me back into the ring.  Thank you Oscar De La Hoya for giving me this opportunity to fulfill my dream in boxing.”

 

“I will do my best to fight each fight, I want everyone to come out on February 27 to support me.”

 

 

Nick Arce, Super Featherweight Prospect

 

“First, I want to thank you all for being here today.  I also would like to thank my team at West Side Boxing and my promoter Golden Boy Promotions for giving me this opportunity”

 

“I’ll give a great show on February 27 so that people can start knowing who Nick Arce is.”

 

 

Oscar “Jaguar” Negrete, Bantamweight Prospect

 

“I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar, Leo Santa Cruz and my management team.

 

“I invite you all to come and meet the ‘Colombian Jaguar’ on February 27.”

 

 

John Carvelli, Vice Chair of the California State Athletic Commission

 

“I want to reiterate our pride and support for Golden Boy Promotions a California born and bred company, they are our most active promoter in the state. We are proud of Golden Boy Promotion’s professionalism.”

 

# # #

 

Caballero vs. Guevara, a 12-round bout for Caballero’s IBF Bantamweight World Championship is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Mexico, Live It To Believe It! and Golden Ram Group. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bell rings at 5:30 p.m. The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at 10:30 p.m. ET / 7:30 p.m. PT.

 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1,www.FOXDeportes.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Swanson_comm, @FOXSports,@FOXSports1, @FOXDeportes and, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page,www.facebook.com/FOXDeportesand visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing.

EXCITING PROSPECTS DIEGO DE LA HOYA, TAISHAN, NICK ARCE, AND OSCAR NEGRETTE HEAD UP RANDY CABALLERO VS. ALBERTO GUEVARA UNDERCARD AT FANTASY SPRINGS RESORT CASINO ON FEBRUARY 27

 

FOX SPORTS 1 AND FOX DEPORTES TO TELEVISE

 

Tickets On Sale Now!

 

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 16) – On February 27, Mexicali’s Diego De La Hoya (8-0, 6 KOs) makes his move up to fight in his first eight-round bout in the evening’s co-main event when he faces Los Angeles’ Manuel “Suavecito” Roman (17-3-3, 6 KOs) at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif.  Plus, Chinese heavyweight sensation Taishan (2-0, 2 KOs) opens up the FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes telecast in a four-round bout against Roy McCary (3-2, 3 KOs) of Houston. Also, newcomer Nick Arce (1-0, 1 KO) competes in his second professional match in a four-round super featherweight bout hoping to make airwaves and undefeated Oscar Negrete (7-0, 3 KOs) will compete in non-televised six-round bantamweight bout, both against opponents yet to be announced.

 

In the previously announced main event, IBF Bantamweight World Champion Randy “El Matador” Caballero (22-0, 13 KOs) will defend his title for the first time against Alberto “Metro” Guevara (19-2, 7 KOs) of Mazatlan, Mexico.

 

“Golden Boy Promotions has for years developed the future stars of boxing – and that proud tradition will continue on Feb. 27,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions.  “Just as we worked with Randy Caballero from the beginning and helped him become a champion, I’m confident that many fighters appearing on Randy’s undercard are headed for similar success.”

 

Tickets for the event, priced at $105, $75, $55, $45 and $35 are on sale now at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

 

With boxing fans around the world waiting to see what he could do in the ring, 20-year-old Diego De La Hoya (8-0, 6 KOs) has yet to disappoint; impressing audiences from the time of his professional debut in 2013 with poise, power and exciting style.  In 2014, the Mexicali native put together six wins, four by knockout and after defeating the likes of Miguel Tamayo and Ali Gonzalez, he’s looking forward to stepping up even more this year as he begins competing in eight-round bouts.

 

Manuel Roman (17-3-3, 6 KOs) of Los Angeles is a tough fighter ready to prove to critics that he is mainstay in the sport.  A professional since 2004 the hard hitting veteran was a former sparring partner to WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz, and also fought Santa Cruz in a title defense bout on the undercard of Mayweather vs. Maidana II.  The last time Roman was seen at Fantasy Springs he went up against hometown favorite and current IBF Bantamweight World Champion Randy Caballero and is looking to return to the venue to take on the rising star Diego De La Hoya.

 

Seven-foot-tall heavyweight Taishan (2-0, 2 KOs) has garnered a lot of attention for being one of the most imposing fighters in his division.  His two professional bouts thus far have proven that there’s substance behind the hype as he’s knocked out both Alex Rozman and Tommy Washington Jr., getting fight fans even more excited for the 26-year-old Beijing native’s first fight of 2015 on February 27.

 

Roy McCary (3-2, 3 KOs) of Houston is a rising heavyweight boxer who has gone up against the hard hitting Mario Herendia and Eric Newell.  Looking to continue to build a reputation, the newcomer will face Taishan hoping for victory in February.

 

A member of the Westside Boxing Club in Los Angeles, 18-year-old lightweight Nick Arce (1-0, 1 KO) is a former amateur standout who entered the professional boxing world in style in November of 2014 with a fourth round knockout over Adalbert Valenzuela.  Now, he will attempt to make it two straight as he competes in one of the sport’s most competitive weight classes.

 

Undefeated bantamweight star, Oscar Negrete (7-0, 3 KOs), will make his third appearance at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino looking to continue his undefeated status.  A professional since 2013, the newcomer already has seven wins to his name, quickly climbing the ranks and becoming a feared fighter.  Most recently, Negrete faced Salvador Perez in a four-round bantamweight bout.  Negrete knocked down the Fresno based fighter in the second round for a technical knockout win.

 

# # #

Caballero vs. Guevara, a 12-round bout for Caballero’s IBF Bantamweight World Championship is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Mexico, Live It To Believe It! and Golden Ram Group.  Doors open at 5:00 p.m.and the first bell rings at 5:30 p.m.  The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com,  www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1, www.FOXDeportes.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Swanson_comm, @FOXSports, @FOXSports1, @FOXDeportes and, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/FOXDeportesand visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing.