Category Archives: Premier Boxing Champions

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CARLOS VELASQUEZ SEEKS VICTORY IN FIRST WORLD TITLE BOUT

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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.”
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SPIKE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
Click HERE For Photos From Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions
 
NEW YORK (August 12, 2015) – With just two days to go until their Premier Boxing Champions on Spike showdowns, fighters participating on the Friday, August 14 card at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey held a press conferenceWednesday at B.B. King’s Blues Club & Grill in Manhattan.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT and is headlined by a 12-round heavyweight showdown between Antonio “Magic Man” Tarver (31-6, 22 KOs) and Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham (28-7, 13 KOs). Also featured on Spike is cruiserweight world champion Marco “Captain” Huck (38-2-1, 26 KOs) defending his title against Polish contender Krzyzstof Glowacki (24-0, 15 KOs) and Polish heavyweight Artur Szpilka (19-1, 14 KOs) taking on Cuba’s Yasmany Consuegra (17-1, 14 KOs).
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Huck Sports Promotion are priced at $150, $100, $70 and $45, not including applicable service charges and are on sale now viaTicketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office.
Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:
ANTONIO TARVER
“This is a big fight for me. PBC was designed for the new, young stars but I’m thankful they’ll let an old guy like me steal the spotlight on Friday night.
“You have two guys who know their way around the ring. We’re in the hurt business and only one man can win. When the smoke clears on Friday we’ll see who’s left standing.
“Every fight is do or die for me. I’ve come too far to start over. I’m on a destiny trip right now. I’m racing towards that heavyweight world championship.
“I was a big light heavyweight but I feel perfect at heavyweight. When I look back at some of my old fights, I was really just a shell of myself. Now I’m healthy and strong and ready to get to the top.
“I wasn’t blessed with this unique talent for nothing. I have to put it on display. The game hasn’t retired me. When I went through all of my struggles, I became a champion right then. Now I just have to walk through my destiny.
“I’m fighting the very best and I’m beating the very best. I’m looking to knock everybody out.
“Training camp has been amazing. My team has gotten me beautifully prepared for this fight. We’re just feeling strong and can’t wait until Friday.
“When I look at the ‘Rocky Balboa’ film when I played the undisputed heavyweight champion, I feel like art is going to imitate life. I played the champ in a movie and I’m going to become the champ in reality.”
STEVE CUNNINGHAM
“It’s a pleasure and an honor to be working with PBC. It’s fight time. Training camp is over. Training camp was hell, and that’s a good training camp.
“I know I’m prepared to do what I need to do. I’m ready to get this win and I want to look spectacular.
“Tarver is a five-time champion, legend, Hall of Famer, but that’s all going out the window August 14. He’s just another guy I have to beat.
“My record doesn’t reflect what I’ve done in the ring, but I take it on the chin and keep going forward like I do in the ring.
“People have seen the work ethic from me. They’ve seen what I’ve gone through in the ring. They saw the close decision losses. I’ve always had faith in myself and I still do.
“Tarver has fought the best out there. He’s been there. He’s been through adversity. He’s had ups and downs. There’s nothing you can say about Tarver that makes you feel like you can go in there and make him look like a bum.
“I’m 39 and I feel awesome. This is a fight. The age means nothing to me. I’m fighting a five-time champion and that’s how we look at it.
“A guy like Tarver, sometimes you have to talk yourself up to get to where you want to go and that’s who he is. He’s a good talker. That will carry on into his next career. But he’s dealing with a guy who grew up dealing with trash talking. I dealt with trash talkers in every language. The talk is for him. He sold this fight, great. But now I’m getting in there to fight.
“I’m trained by brother Naazim Richardson, he’ll never let me take anyone lightly. If you do that, that’s how you go in there and get wiped out.”
MARCO HUCK
“I’m really happy to be here for my U.S. debut. This is the mecca of boxing. I’ve wanted to fight here for a very long time.
“I am looking forward to wiping the floor with some of these guys up here.
“It’s a very special occasion for me to be here and I’m going to show everybody what I’m all about.
“This is a similar feeling to the one when I fought for my first world title. I’m starting to heat up inside. I can’t wait to put my fists on somebody.
“I want to bring this sport to everybody. Not just the people who make money but the people who don’t have the money to spend on the sport. It’s great for the sport.
“People can talk a lot but you have to prove it inside of the ring. I always prove it inside the ring. On Friday they will be chanting “Huck! Huck! Huck!'”
KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI
“I’m so happy to be here. This fight is my whole life. I always dreamed about this chance to be a world champion and it’s very close.
“There’s no doubt Huck is a great fighter, a warrior, but if he thinks for a second this is going to be easy he’s mistaken big time. This is going to be a war from the first round to the last.
“I already see me as world champion. Huck is a great fighter, great warrior, so what? I’m ready for a war, from first round to the last.”
ARTUR SZPILKA
“I’m so excited to be here. I’m boxing for Polish people including my friend Glowacki, who I know can beat Huck.
“I want to show everybody how good I am. Everyone who does not believe in me will know the truth.
“All four Polish guys, my friends, will win on Friday.
“I have an amazing team and I can’t wait. I am becoming a better and better fighter and I promise this will be an exciting fight.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“Artur Szpilka is a very exciting heavyweight and if you haven’t had the opportunity to see him you should make sure you don’t miss Friday. He’s fighting Yasmany Consuegra who’s very powerful as well. It’s a battle of two punchers and someone is going to hit the canvas.
“Glowacki is a very talented fighter who believes he’s taking the title back to Poland. Marco Huck believes otherwise. People are going to get to know Marco Huck in America and they’re going to love his style.
“The American public wants to see wars in the ring and I think that Huck and Glowacki are going to put on a show.
“One of the great things about PBC is that not only are we getting to make attractive matchups, but we can bring over stars and people who have not been exposed to the American public. Marco is already a star in most of the world and he’s soon going to be a star in the United States.
“The main event has been anticipated by a lot of people for a while. Antonio is looking for a shot at the heavyweight world title and he’ll have to beat a real heavyweight to get there.
“Steve’s record is not revealing of the quality of fighter that he is. He’s a very good fighter and an individual with outstanding character.
“Antonio Tarver has had a tremendous career. He is a future Hall of Famer. The five-time world champion moniker is one that most people can’t say. But this man can.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.com, www.PruCenter.com andwww.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AntonioTarver, @USSCunningham, @Szpilka_Artur, @LouDiBella, @PruCenter, @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/PruCenterandwww.Facebook.com/Spike.
boxing, ESPN Boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

LEO SANTA CRUZ MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Santa Cruz Takes On Abner Mares In Battle Of Los Angeles’ Best On
Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN (10 P.M. ET/7 P.M. PT)
Saturday, Aug. 29 From STAPLES Center In Los Angeles
 
Click HERE For Photos From Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LOS ANGELES (August 11, 2015) – Undefeated two-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz held a media workout Tuesday at the Who’s Next Boxing Academy in La Puente, Calif., before his showdown with Abner Mares on Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN on Saturday, August 29 airing live from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
Santa Cruz worked out for media, conducted interviews and was even presented with a birthday cake in celebration of his 27th birthday, which was Monday. The band Las Voces Del Rancho was on hand to sing him “Happy Birthday.”
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $25, $50, $75, $150 and $300, not including applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale at AXS.com or by phone at 888-929-7849 or at STAPLES Center.
Here is what Santa Cruz and his father had to say at the workout today:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“We’re going to show everyone that we are on top when we’re in that ring. This has been a great promotion and we have hope that it’s going to be a big fight.
“I have been in other big fights and I’m doing everything to prepare for my audience and fans. They respect our team and they are the reason why we are doing this fight. I’m going to continue to fight for my fans and I’m going to do it until I’m the best in the sport.
“I’m 100 percent with my strength and conditioning. We’re ready to go 12 rounds if it takes that long.
“I’m very determined to win this fight. It’s the biggest fight of my career. I have a lot to lose I have a lot to prove. I want to prove to all of the fans that I deserve to be on this level. A win against Mares will put me on the level to get more big fights.
“I wanted this fight three years ago and they said I wasn’t on Mares’ level. I said I was going to work hard to get on that level so one day we can make it happen and here we are.
“This is the toughest fighter I’ve faced. A fight against him will be the biggest of my career. Even bigger than my first title. Mares has a bigger name, everything is bigger.
“With two Mexicans fighting, it’s always a war. There have been a lot of great battles like that in the past and I think this will be too. We could end up with a trilogy of fights.
“We both have our fan base in Los Angeles and this fight will determine who is the king and who gets all the fans.
“My dad has always been there since the beginning. I’ve always been comfortable with him. He’ll scream at me and tell it like it is.
“I think Abner moves more since his loss to Jhonny Gonzalez. He knows this fight is very important for him. There’s a lot to lose for him too. I think he’s going to bring everything this fight. That makes it an even better fight for the fans.”
JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’s Father & Trainer
“Leo is ready in his diet and in the way he trains. He won’t play games. He listens to what I say because he is a good boxer and he will do whatever is needed because he knows Abner is strong.
“This is a huge party for Los Angeles. They are both from LA and everything about this fight is Los Angeles.
“He’s going to be on top of things the minute he needs to be. But he’s going to fight with intelligence. It’s a big fight, my son and Abner are very popular and I’m sure it’s going to be a great fight.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SPIKE MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
NORTH BERGEN, N.J. (August 11, 2015) – Fighters participating on Friday’s Premier Boxing Champions on Spike event held a media workout Tuesday at Global Gym in North Bergen, N.J. before their August 14 fights at Prudential Center in Newark.
Friday’s main event pits Antonio “Magic Man” Tarver (31-6, 22 KOs) against Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham (28-7, 13 KOs) in a 12-round heavyweight bout with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Also featured on Spike is cruiserweight world champion Marco “Captain” Huck (38-2-1, 26 KOs) defending his title against Polish contenderKrzyzstof Glowacki (24-0, 15 KOs) and Polish heavyweight Artur Szpilka (19-1, 14 KOs) taking on Cuba’s Yasmany Consuegra (17-1, 14 KOs).
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Huck Sports Promotion are priced at $150, $100, $70 and $45, not including applicable service charges and are on sale now viaTicketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office.
Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday, plus quotes from Tarver, who was unable to attend the workouts:
ANTONIO TARVER
“I’ve done enough talking.  Now, we are only three days from the fight.

“We both signed a contract to inflict bodily harm on each other for 12 or less rounds.  When the smoke clears, we’ll see who’s left standing.”

STEVE CUNNINGHAM
“I did the cruiserweight thing, I was the top of the food chain. I want to do it somewhere else. Heavyweight is the next challenge.
“This is a big challenge. Tarver has made history. That’s the kind of challenge I like. Heavyweight is a bigger challenge than cruiserweight. These guys are supposed to be bigger and stronger than me. I’m very competitive and that pushes me during training. The challenges keep me going.
“It’s great to be fighting again at Prudential Center. This is familiar territory for me. I’m trying to pick up another win. It’s right up the street from us and we’re looking to drive home happy Saturday.
“I fought in Europe so much, fighting this close to home is a little scary. There are a lot of eyes on you. But that’s what we do. We handle pressure and do what we do. If a fighter doesn’t have nerves they’re either lying or don’t have it in them.
“I just have to keep putting in work. I’ve had lot’s of close fights, everyone knows how it’s gone down and I’m good with it.
“I think I’m ready for a title right now, but it’s up to the media and fans. We’ll see how the performance goes. If you see a good performance and you demand it, I’m ready.”
MARCO HUCK
“I don’t really concern myself with my opponents. My only worry is if he is a southpaw or orthodox. A lot of people say they’re in they’re in the best shape of their lives, but they all come crashing down.
“The only thing I need to know is that I am going to beat him come Friday night. I want my opponents to adjust to me because I am the world champion.
“I take all of my opponents seriously. It is disrespectful not to and he’s very well-ranked.
“Training in Las Vegas was tough at first. Obviously coming over from Europe, we’re not used to the heat. I even doubted if this was the right decision but looking at it now it was the perfect decision. We’re in great shape and we adjusted well to the temperature.
“When I eventually go back up to heavyweight I want to fight the top guys right away. Maybe I’ll go fight Deontay Wilder, that is definitely an interesting option.
“All our focus is on Friday night and our victory.”
KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI
“Huck is of course the favorite because he’s a world champion. After I beat him, I will be a favorite too.
“People are afraid of Huck’s power but I’m not.  What I want is a hard fought battle and winning by knockout in final round. This is my dream and I will make it happen.”
ARTUR SZPILKA
“My trainer Ronnie Shields is exactly right saying that I’m here to knock Consuegra out.  This is what I will do on Friday.
“I worked hard in Houston during training camp. I have the energy to fight 15 rounds if necessary. My speed and not wasting any of my punches will be the difference.”
KAMIL LASZCZYK
“It’s a big deal for me to fight in Prudential Center. I started my US career here in 2011 and now fighting in Newark means a lot to me.
“I would like to show everybody how good I am offensively. A little more time and I will be able to challenge for a world title.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.com, www.PruCenter.com andwww.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AntonioTarver, @USSCunningham, @Szpilka_Artur, @LouDiBella, @PruCenter, @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/PruCenterandwww.Facebook.com/Spike.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

TOP POLISH FIGHTERS KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI, ARTUR SZPILKA & KAMIL LASZCZYK  MEDIA LUNCHEON QUOTES 

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(Left to Right: Laszczyk, Glowacki & Szpilka. Photo Credit: Przemek Garczarczyk)
 
Click HERE For Photos From Fan Meet & Greet
Photo Credit: Przemek Garczarczyk
 
Glowacki Takes on Cruiserweight World Champion Marco Huck
While Artur Szpilka Faces Cuban Heavyweight Yasmany Consuegra On Premier Boxing Champions on Spike
Friday, Aug. 14 From Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.
 
NEW YORK (August 11, 2015) – Top Polish fighters Krzysztof Glowacki (24-0, 15 KOs), Artur Szpilka (19-1, 14 KOs) and Kamil Laszczyk (20-0, 8 KOs) held a media luncheon in Manhattan Monday to discuss their respective Friday, August 14 bouts at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
Later in the day, the fighters hosted a fan meet and greet at the Amsterdam Alley Lounge in Linden, New Jersey where they signed autographs and chatted with fans before their upcoming Friday night bouts.
Glowacki will battle cruiserweight world champion Marco Huck (38-2-1, 26 KOs) in the Premier Boxing Champions onSpike co-featured event while Szpilka will take on Cuban heavyweight Yasmany Consuegra (17-1, 14 KOs) in the 10-round televised opener beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Laszczyk takes on fellow unbeaten Oscauris Frias (16-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight attraction. The main event of the night features a heavyweight showdown between Antonio “The Magic Man” Tarver (31-6, 22 KOs) and Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham (28-7, 13 KOs).
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Huck Sports Promotion are priced at $150, $100, $70 and $45, not including applicable service charges and are on sale now viaTicketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office.
Here is what the participants had to say Monday:
KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI
“I read that Marco Huck said he could bet all his money on defeating me, so I will say the same – I’m betting all my money that I will be a new world champion on August 14.
“This is how it looks in my head. Everything went perfectly. I came a here couple of weeks before the fight, no problems at all.
“I’m a very quiet man, but when I step into the ring, I’m a different man. I’m a beast with no fear at all.
“People are asking me if this fight will be between Huck’s raw power and my ring intelligence. I agree, but what else happens at Prudential Center, you will have to see for yourself.”
ARTUR SZPILKA
“I don’t pay attention to what Consuegra is saying about my skills. In the past, maybe I would explode with some expletives, but now I’m saving my energy for the ring for August 14.
“I know exactly what I will do to him. This is my coming out party for U.S. viewers and they will not be disappointed. I worked to hard in Houston to blow this opportunity.
“Don’t get me wrong – I appreciate Consuegra as a fighter, but I also know what I can do.”
KAMIL LASZCZYK
“I know that I’m fighting a tough fighter who has more knockouts than I have fights. I know that I’m ready to fight the best in the world.
“I will be doing my thing and I’m not going to get crazy in the ring and I will not give up my zero in the loss column. I had a great sparring sessions and great camp fighting with Olympians.
“After this fight, I plan to stay longer in the United States, maybe a year or two to get my experience for world championships fights.”
RONNIE SHIELDS, Szpilka’s Trainer
 “Szpilka is ready. He’s in great shape and camp was really good. The most important thing – he’s confident.
“Consuegra had a good amateur career. But this is not the amateurs anymore. You get paid, this is when it all counts. He’s going to be in the ring with the beast, Artur Szpilka, who is going to knock his head off.
“This is the fact; this is what will happen in Prudential Center.  Let’s see who will do the running when the fight starts. If he’s a man of his words, Consuegra will stand up and fight. It will be great for us and the fans.”
#          #          #
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.com, www.PruCenter.com andwww.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AntonioTarver, @USSCunningham, @Szpilka_Artur, @LouDiBella, @PruCenter, @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/PruCenterand www.Facebook.com/Spike.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

MIDDLEWEIGHT STAR PETER QUILLIN HEADLINES ACTION PACKED PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC CARD AS HE FACES AUSTRALIAN MICHAEL ZERAFA

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PLUS CORNELIUS BUNDRAGE TAKES ON JERMALL CHARLO
IN A SUPER WELTERWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 AT 4 P.M. ET/1 P.M. PT
AT FOXWOODS RESORT CASINO IN MASHANTUCKET, CONNECTICUT
 
Tickets on Sale Now!
 
MASHANTUCKET, CT (August 10, 2015) – Undefeated middleweight star Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (31-0-1, 22 KOs) will headline in a 12-round middleweight bout against Michael Zerafa (17-1, 9 KOs) while super welterweight world champion Cornelius “K-9” Bundrage (34-5, 19 KOs) defends against undefeated rising star Jermall Charlo (21-0, 16 KOs) on an action-packed edition of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC Saturday, September 12 live from Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut starting at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT.
“I’m ready and excited to return to the ring on NBC on September 12,” said Quillin. “I’m already deep into training camp and preparing to be in the best shape of my career. I know my opponent is dangerous and he’s coming to make a name for himself.  I’m at the top of my game and I plan to stay there.”
“I’m excited for this fight. This sport is all about fighting the best and giving the fans what they want to see,” said Zerafa. “This is a great opportunity and I’m looking forward to coming over there and putting on a show.”
“It’s a blessing to be the junior middleweight world champion,” said Bundrage. “I want to thank my entire team for making this fight happen. I’m looking forward to my debut on PBC and successfully defending my second world title. Detroit is where the title is at, it’s not going anywhere. I will be ready to give my supporters all around the world a great performance, in victory.”
For Charlo this is a long-awaited title shot. He and his brother, Jermell, are both top prospects in the 154-pound division.
“This is my time, I’ve never been more ready for a fight,” said Charlo. “I’ve dreamed about a fight like this for a long time and it’s here in front of me. I will be spectacular and I will finish Cornelius Bundrage.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $150, $85 and $45, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com and www.foxwoods.com or by visiting the Foxwoods’ Box Office. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.
“Peter Quillin is coming off the toughest fight of his career. We are looking forward to him getting back in the ring, in anticipation of the long-awaited showdown with Daniel Jacobs later this year,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Young, hungry Michael Zerafa is looking to upset the apple cart. With no pressure and nothing to lose, he will try to throw a wrench into Kid Chocolate’s lofty plans. Young Jermall Charlo looks to put his name on the 154-pound map by taking a world title from veteran champion and puncher Cornelius ‘K9’ Bundrage. We are thrilled to bring this PBC event to DiBella Entertainment’s New England home, Foxwoods.”
“For 23 years, Foxwoods has been the East Coast capital for the best in entertainment and sports, especially boxing, where we have been privileged to host hundreds of fights featuring the best fighters in the world,” said Felix Rappaport, President and CEO Foxwoods Resort Casino. “On September 12, continuing in that rich tradition, The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and Foxwoods will be honored to work with the best in the business, Lou DiBella and Premier Boxing Champions series, as they present a nationally televised afternoon of championship boxing live coast-to-coast on NBC.”
Quillin returns to action on September 12 fresh off of a hard-fought draw against middleweight world champion Andy Lee looking to keep his undefeated record intact. He won a middleweight belt in 2012 with his star-making, six-knockdown performance against Hassan N’Dam in the first boxing card hosted at Barclays Center. Born in Chicago but fighting out of New York City, the 31-year-old went on to defend that title against strong contenders Fernando Guerrero, Gabriel Rosado and Lukas Konecny. Now, “Kid Chocolate” looks to show off his superstar skills on network television for the second time.
After turning pro at 18-years-old, Zerafa won the first 15 starts of his career while fighting out of his native Australia. At 23-years-old Zerafa will make his U.S. debut on September 12 when he comes to Connecticut to take on Quillin. He owns wins over previously unbeaten fighters Bruno Carvalho and Luke Sharp and is coming off of a fourth round TKO over Yodmongkol Singmanasak in March.
Bundrage’s career has skyrocketed in recent years since a world title winning performance in 2010 over Cory Spinks. The Detroit-native went on defend the title against Sechew Powell and Spinks. He would lose the title in 2013 but quickly earned another shot against Carlos Molina, who he would defeat by unanimous decision to become a two-time world champion. He defends against the very hungry Charlo on September 12.
Highly regarded and undefeated,the 24-year-old Charlois primed for his first world title opportunity. He remained undefeated in 2014 with dominant victories over Hector Munoz, Norberto Gonzalez and Lenny Bottai and started 2015 by shutting out Michael Finney in March. Fighting out of Houston, Charlo will no doubt look to be impressive in his first PBC opportunity.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.dbe1.comand www.nbcsports.com/boxing,follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KidChocolate @K9Boxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @LouDiBella, @FoxwoodsCT and @Swanson_Comm,
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

Szpilka Looking Forward to Putting His Improved Skills on Display Friday

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Polish Heavyweight Contender Faces Cuba’s Consuegra at the Prudential Center in Newark Next Friday
When he enters the ring next Friday, August 14, Polish heavyweight hero Artur Szpilka says he is eager to show off the improvements he has made working with trainer Ronnie Shields.
Szpilka (19-1, 14 KOs) will face Cuba’s Yasmany Consuegra (17-1, 14 KOs) in the chief supporting bout of the Premier Boxing Champions on Spike doubleheader featuring Antonio “Magic Man” Tarver (31-6, 22 KOs) facing Philadelphia’s Steve “USS” Cunningham (28-7, 13 KOs) and cruiserweight champion Marco “Captain” Huck (38-2-1, 26 KOs) defending his title against Szpilka’s countryman Krzyzstof Glowacki (24-0, 15 KOs) at the Prudential Center, in Newark, New Jersey.
Tickets for the event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Huck Sports Promotion, are priced at $150, $100, $70 and $45, not including applicable service charges and are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Undercard action begins at 6:00 p.m. ET, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. ET.
Going into his third fight with the well-respected Shields, Szpilka says he’s a different fighter. “Ronnie shields is the best coach. Every time I go to the gym, he teaches me something new. I come to training excited because my coach believes in me that I will be champ. We have a great time in the gym and everything is going great.”
The southpaw Szpilka says he respects his opponent, Consuegra, but has come too far to lose working with Shields. “He’s a good fighter. He has a good right hand and he’s a good mover. I feel it will be a good fight, but I know what I have to do to win.
Stacked with Polish boxing talent, in addition to Glowacki vs. Huck and Szpilka vs. Consuegra, the Premier Boxing Champions on Spike event will also include middleweight Maciej Sulecki  (20-0, 5 KOs) and world-ranked featherweight Kamil “Little Tyson” Laszczyk (20-0, 8 KOs).
“I am so excited to be arriving in Newark tomorrow (Sunday). I look forward to showing off my new skills and to seeing my friends win their fights,” continued Szpilka. “Next Friday I will be one step closer to my dreams of winning a championship. I look forward to it and to continuing my work with Ronnie Shields. He is making me into a champion.”
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For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.com,www.PruCenter.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AntonioTarver, @USSCunningham, @Szpilka_Artur, @LouDiBella, @PruCenter, @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/PruCenterandwww.Facebook.com/Spike.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS SERIES SEPT. 11 IN TORONTO

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PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

 

2012 U.S. OLYMPIAN ERROL SPENCE TAKES ON CHRIS VAN HEERDEN IN SPIKE TV CO-FEATURE

 

STEVENSON vs. KARPENCY HEADLINES IN

WBC LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLEFIGHT

 

PRESENTED BY GYM, GLB, LENNOX LEWIS AND MLSE
TORONTO (August 7, 2015) — Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), in association with Global Legacy Boxing (GLB) and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE), officially announced today that 2012 U.S. Olympian Errol “The Truth” Spence will take on South African welterweight Chris “The Heat” Van Heerden in the 10-round televised co-feature, airing September 11 live on Spike TV in the United States, as well as Indigo and Bell TV in Canada, from Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto.

The Sept. 11 event, part of the prestigious Premier Boxing Champions series, WILL BE headlined by the world light heavyweight title fight between defending champion Adonis “Superman” Stevensonand challenger Tommy “Kryptonite” Karpency.

Stevenson (26-1-0, 21 KOs), fighting out of Montreal, will defend his World Boxing Council (WBC),The Ring magazine and lineal light heavyweight (175 pounds) world championship belts for the sixth time, against world-rated challenger Tommy “Kryptonite” Karpency (25-4-1, 14 KOs), the American southpaw from Adah, Pennsylvania, who is coming off a major upset this past October 4, 2014, when he defeated former light heavyweight lineal champion Chad Dawson by way of a split decision.

The 25-year-old Spence (17-0, 14 KOs), fighting out of Desota, Texas, was a highly decorated U.S. amateur boxer. The dangerous southpaw is a rising star who is being billed as the future of the welterweight division after Floyd “Money” Mayweather, Jr. retires. In his last fight, Spence stopped veteran Phil LoGreco in the third round.

Van Heerden (23-1-1, 12 KOs), 28, is also a southpaw. During his outstanding career, he has registered victories against the likes of Sebastian Lujan, Cosme Rivera, Matthew Hatton, Ray Narh, Cecil McCalla and Ramon Avila.

“We are very happy to have Spence versus Van Heerden as the televised co-feature on our September 11th event in Toronto,” GYM president Yvon Michel said. “They are two of the most talented welterweights in the world. This match-up has all of the makings of an exciting, explosive, fan-friendly fight. We’re thrilled that boxing fans in the U.S. and Canada will be able to watch this fight, as well as ‘Superman’ Stevenson against Karpency, on national television.”

Also part of this promotion is former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, Lennox Lewis,conqueror of Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Vitali Klitschko among the more notables during his distinguished boxing career.

A total of eight bouts will be scheduled during the event, showcasing young talents from Ontario and Quebec.

Tickets went on sale and are available to purchase at www.ticketmaster.com at GYM (514) 383-0666, GLB (416) 678-6957 or Ricoh Coliseum (416) 263-3900. Ticket prices start at 40 $. Tables are also available by contacting GLB.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

 PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS SERIES LANDS IN TORONTO

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PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

STEVENSON vs. KARPENCY

WBC LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE

PRESENTED BY GYM, GLB, LENNOX LEWIS AND MLSE

TORONTO (August 5, 2015) —    Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), in association with Global Legacy Boxing (GLB) and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE), is proud to officially announce the next world title defense of feared puncher, Adonis “Superman” Stevenson, September 11, at the Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto. The event is part of the prestigious Premier Boxing Champions series, airing live on Spike TV in the United States, on Indigo and Bell TV in Canada.

Stevenson (26-1-0, 21 KOs),ofMontreal, one of the most powerful pound-for- pound punchers in the world, will defend his World Boxing Council (WBC), The Ring magazine and lineal light heavyweight (175 pounds) world championship belts for the sixth time, against WBC #9 contender Tommy “Kryptonite” Karpency (25-4-1, 14 KOs), the skilled American southpaw fighting out of Adah, Pennsylvania. It was Stevenson’s wish to defend his titles in Toronto:

“I’m excited to announce my next fight on September 11 in Toronto against Tommy Karpency. I’m ready to put the hurt on. I work hard and stay focused”, said the champion.

 

The 29-year-old Karpency pulled off a major upset October 4, 2014 at the Foxwoods Resort of Mashantucket, Connecticut, defeating former light heavyweight lineal champion Chad Dawson by way of a split decision. Karpency, who has won his last four fights, is also the current Pennsylvania and NABA-USA light heavyweight champion. He is particularly excited to get this world championship opportunity.

“I beat the same guy Stevenson beat to become world champion. I beat him [Dawson] just over a year after Stevenson beat him. After that win, I said that the sky was the limit and that I wanted the best in the world. The win [over Dawson] proved that I belong amongst the elite at light heavyweight. Now it is my job to win this fight“, explained Karpency.

“GYM is trilled to bring this world championship fight and the ‘Premier Boxing Champions’ series to Toronto for the first time,” GYM president Yvon Michel said. “We have been contemplating this project for a long time. This has been possible because we found great partners with Les Woods and Lennox Lewis, from GLB, and Wayne Zronick, from MLSE. We have the conviction to bring a major boxing event that this prodigious sport city deserves. Even more, we also believe we have found the required partners to guarantee the success of the project and to do it again on a regular bases.”

“It is an immense privilege to be working alongside MLSE and GYM,” GLB president Les Woods added. “Global Legacy’s mandate of reviving world-class professional boxing in the wonderful city of Toronto has become a reality. “To continue the legacy my grandfather created and reignite a passion for ‘the sweet science’ across the city is a vision and accomplishment I hope will continue to leave a lasting imprint now as well as on all futuregenerations of boxing fans.”

Also part of this promotion is former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, Lennox Lewis. While not fighting anymore, he stills as the passion for his sport. Lewis defeated Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Vitali Klitschko among the more notables during his illustrious boxing career.

“It’s wonderful to be a part of GLB, working in conjunction with GYM and MLSE, to revive boxing in Toronto and across Canada to the highest level,” Lewis remarked. “As the former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, I am proud to be building a nationwide platform where boxers, such as world light heavyweight champion Adonis Stevenson, can showcase their talents at home and receive the support they deserve.”

In the co-feature, current Canadian heavyweight champion Dillon “Big Country” Carman (8-2, 7 KOs), of Mississauga, Ontario, will face former Lewis and Tyson opponent, Jamaican-born Donovan “Razor” Ruddock (40-5-1, 30 KOs). A total of eight bouts will be scheduled during the event, showcasing young talents from Ontario and Quebec.

Boxing in Toronto and Ontario

Toronto was a boxing hot spot as early as 1880.

Jake Kilrain, George Dixon, Joe Gans, Kid McCoy, Harry Greb, Sam Langford,Benny Leonard, Mickey Walker, Kid Chocolate, Max Baer, Primo Carnera,Joey Giambra, Archie Moore, Floyd Patterson, Bob Foster, Muhammad Ali, and Larry Holmes all waged epic battles in Toronto during their boxing careers.

Other standouts who also fought in Toronto include Jimmy Wilde, Jimmy Welsh,Young Stribling, Rocky Kansas, “Panama” Al Brown, Sandy Saddler, Battling Levinsky, Sammy Angott, Tommy Loughran, Maxie Rosenbloom, Jose Napoles, Ernie Terrell, Jimmy Ellis, Nino Benvenuti, and Aaron Pryor.

Canadian legend George Chuvalo fought for the heavyweight world title March 29, 1966 at the Maple Leaf Gardens against defending champion and boxing iconMuhammad Ali, in probably the most famous bout ever held in the city. The always tough Chuvalo lasted 15 rounds with the man known as “The Greatest”.

Toronto native Nick Furlano also boxed and lasted 15 rounds against ferocious World Boxing Association (WBA) world super lightweight champion and International Boxing Hall of Fame member, Aaron “The Hawk” Pryor, June 22, 1984, at the Varsity Stadium of the University of Toronto.

Since then, Sarnia’s son Steve Molitor was the International Boxing Federation world super bantamweight (122 pounds) champion, from 2006 to 2011. He fought in seven world title fights in Ontario, all at the Rama Casino.

More recently, November 15, 2014 at the Hershey Center in Mississauga, Brampton’s own Denton Daley challenged WBA interim world cruiserweight champion Youri Kalenga, a nativeof the Democratic Republic of the Congo, losing in the 12th and final round.

Tickets go on sale starting Friday, August 7 at 10:00 a.m., on www.ticketmaster.ca, at GYM (514) 383-0666, GLB (416) 678-6957 or Ricoh Coliseum (416) 263-3900. Ticket prices start at 40 $. Tables are also available by contacting GLB.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

 Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round on Bounce TV: “Smashing Debut”

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ATLANTA (Aug. 5, 2015) – The series premiere of Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round on Bounce TV on Aug. 2 was a knockout success.

 

The live telecast delivered 459,000 total viewers and averaged 333,000 Households between 9:00 p.m.-12:15 a.m., with a peak audience of 667,000 total viewers and 444,000 Households. This live telecast also delivered 255,000 Adults 25-54 and 195,000 A18-49.

 

Bounce TV aired an immediate encore of PBC – The Next Round after the live event and the two telecasts combined reached nearly two million unique viewers.

 

The network also streamed the PBC – The Next Round live on BounceTV.com which saw a usage increase of more than 300% on Sunday night. (Click here to watch the telecast.)

 

Bounce TV’s debut of PBC – The Next Round was also met with glowing media reviews, including: “Smashing debut” (Bleacher Report) and “The debut of PBC: The Next Round on Bounce TV was a success” (USA Today).

 

The inauguralPBC – The Next Round consisted of three exciting fights. The main event saw Juan Carlos “Baby Pacquiao” Payano (17-0, 8 KOs) defeat Rau’shee Warren (13-1, 4 KOs) in a close, 12-round split decision to retain hisBantamweight Title.

 

In the first bout of a four-man super welterweight tournament, John Jackson(20-2, 15 KOs) won a 10-round unanimous decision over Dennis Laurente (49-6, 30 KOs).  The second tournament bout featured a hard-hitting fight in which Jorge Cota (25-1, 22 KOs) defeated Yudel Jhonson.  The winners of this tournament, Cota and Jackson, will fight on PBC – The Next Round on Bounce TV in November.

 

Fred Hickman (CNN Sports, ESPN) hosted PBC – The Next Round, Fran Charles(NFL Network, MLB Network) called the blow-by-blow action and former Super Welterweight World Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout provided insight and analysis.

 

PBC – The Next Roundreturns Fri. Sept. 18 at 9:00 p.m. (ET) with the schedule of fights to be announced shortly.

 

Bounce TV is carried on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage.  Bounce TV is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and 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 85 million homes across 90 markets, 90% of African American television homes — including all of the top AA television markets. Among the founders of Bounce TV are iconic American figures Ambassador Andrew Young and Martin Luther King III. For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.