Category Archives: Premier Boxing Champions

WELTERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION ERROL SPENCE JR. TO DEFEND AGAINST FORMER CHAMPION LAMONT PETERSONSATURDAY, JANUARY 20 LIVE ON SHOWTIME® FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN & PRESENTED BY PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

Spence Returns for First Title Defense in
 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Main Event
Tickets On Sale Tomorrow, Wednesday, Nov. 22 at 10 a.m. ET
BROOKLYN (Nov. 21, 2017) – Undefeated IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. will make the first defense of his title when he takes on former two-division world champion Lamont Peterson on Saturday, January 20 live on SHOWTIME. The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature undercard attractions that will be announced in the near future.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are priced starting at $50, and go on sale Wednesday, Nov. 22 at 10 a.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.combarclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center starting Thursday, Nov. 23 at noon. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also be available in Spanish via secondary audio programming (SAP).
“I’m pleased to be promoting Spence vs. Peterson, one of the very best matchups in the welterweight division and in all of boxing,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Spence is not only one of the best welterweights in the world, but one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in boxing. In Peterson, he faces another elite welterweight and a two-time world champion. Spence vs. Peterson will bring the heat to Barclays Center on a chilly January 20. This is yet another night in the outstanding run of big time fights on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.”
“Spence vs. Peterson is an intriguing matchup between two elite welterweights looking to reach the top of this marquee division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Errol Spence is a rising star with his sights set on title unification and the top of the pound-for-pound list, but he’s going to receive a stern test from Lamont Peterson, a multiple division champion whose resume is filled with top class opponents. It’s going to be another fantastic atmosphere at Barclays Center and a great night of fights live on SHOWTIME.”
“With his breakout performance against Kell Brook, Errol Spence established himself as one of top fighters in the welterweight division, if not in all of boxing,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports.  “Never one to rest on his laurels, Errol continues to seek out the toughest available opponents, and he has found exactly that in Lamont Peterson.  Lamont has never backed down from a challenge, and as a result, he has a wealth of experience with one of the strongest resumes in the division.  This type of high profile, dangerous matchup is the quintessential SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event.”
“BROOKLYN BOXING enjoyed a banner year in 2017, and we are looking forward to carrying that momentum into 2018,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. “Spence vs. Peterson sets a strong precedent for the year, with two top welterweights returning to the ring at Barclays Center to compete for recognition in one of the sport’s most talented divisions.”
Spence (22-0, 19 KOs), of Dallas, traveled to England to dethrone IBF 147-pound champion and hometown favorite Kell Brook on May 27 on SHOWTIME in one of the defining fights of 2017.  The 27-year-old, who had long been touted as boxing’s next big thing, fulfilled his promise with a breakthrough performance, fracturing Brook’s orbital bone en route to an 11th round TKO.  A 2012 U.S. Olympian, Spence will enter the ring at Barclays Center for the third time after most recently stopping former champion Chris Algieri in an April 2016 main event. He will fight in Brooklyn for the fourth time; he earned his title shot by knocking out Leonard Bundu at the Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk in August 2016.
“My goal is to unify the welterweight division in 2018, but this fight is a true test and Lamont Peterson is a veteran that I definitely will not overlook,” said Spence. “I sparred him in the amateurs and I know what he brings to the table. I have to get through him to achieve my goals and that is what I plan on doing January 20th.”
Peterson (35-3-1, 17 KOs), of Washington, D.C., has won titles at 140 and 147 pounds while facing some of the biggest names in the sport, including Danny Garcia, Amir Khan and Timothy Bradley.  The 33-year-old won the WBA 147-pound title in his last outing Feb. 18 on SHOWTIME before relinquishing the belt for the chance to challenge Spence. Peterson has won four of his last five outings, twice fighting at Barclays Center. His Brooklyn debut saw him defeat Edgar Santana by TKO in 2014 before dropping a narrow majority draw to Garcia in a 2015 main event in Brooklyn.
“First off, I’m happy to be getting back in the ring,” said Peterson. “I’ve stayed in the gym and I’m ready to go. This is a fight I wanted and as I said before when I became a welterweight, I want to fight the best and make the fights that people want to see. I’m ready to give it my all and give the fans a great show.”
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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
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and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Former World Champion Jessie Vargas Returns To Take On Aaron Herrera in Welterweight Clash on Special Friday Night Edition of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes December 15 from Pioneer Event Center in Lancaster, Calif.

 
Plus! Rugged Veteran Diego Chaves Battles Welterweight Contender Jamal James in Co-Main Event Showdown
 
Also in Action! Super Lightweights John Molina Jr. & Ivan Redkach Square-Off & Featherweights Stephen Fulton and Adam Lopez Meet In A Battle of Unbeaten Featherweight Prospects
 
Tickets On Sale Now!
 
LANCASTER, CA. – (November 17, 2017) – Former welterweight champion Jessie Vargas returns to the ring to take on hard-hitting veteran Aaron Herrera in the 10-round main event of a special Friday night edition of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes December 15 from Pioneer Event Center in Lancaster, California with televised coverage starting at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Promoted by TGB Promotions, the show will also feature a 10-round welterweight showdown between rugged veteran Diego Chaves and rising contender Jamal James in the co-main event. Additional televised action will see hard hitters John Molina Jr. and Ivan Redkach squaring off in 10-rounds of super lightweight action and unbeaten featherweight prospects Stephen Fulton (11-0, 5 KOs) and Adam Lopez (8-0, 3 KOs) battling in an eight-round match.
“This is one of those high energy shows that promises action from top to bottom. Jesse Vargas is one of the toughest welterweights in the sport. He always comes to fight and doesn’t disappoint,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “His match against Herrera should provide the kind of action and entertainment that his fans have come to expect from him. Jamal James is stepping up to another level and will be tested by Diego Chaves, a rugged veteran who has been in against some of the best in the division. And you know that Molina and Redkach are going to trade shots. It promises to be entertaining for the fans at Pioneer Event Center and those tuned in on FS1 and FOX Deportes.”
Tickets for the live event begin at $30 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit the Pioneer Event Center’s website: www.uavpec.com.
Vargas (27-2, 10 KOs) is returning to the ring for the first time in 13 monthsafter dropping a 12-round decision in a welterweight title defense against Manny Pacquiao on Nov. 5, 2016. The 28-year-old Vargas, who was born in Los Angeles and now lives in Las Vegas, won the welterweight title with a technical knockout victory over Sadam Ali on March 5, 2016. His only other loss came against former welterweight champion Timothy Bradley and he owns victories over the likes of Antonio DeMarco, Josesito Lopez, Aron Martinez and Wale Omotoso.
“Every fighter is dangerous and if I give Herrera the chance, he’ll knock my head off,” said Vargas. “But I come into every fight with bad intentions and I’m in a position where I know exactly what it takes to get where I want to go. I have a lot of opportunities ahead of me, but first, I have to show the fans that I’m back and look exciting while doing that. Herrera is going to give me his best, but I feel that I have the speed, the experience and the game plan to overcome anything he brings to the table.”
Herrera (33-7-1, 22 KOs) has already fought four times in 2017 including his most recent outing, a stoppage of Israel Toala in July. The 28-year-old from Merida, Yucatan, Mexico lost to Brandon Rios via knockout on June 11 in a FS1 and FOX Deportes main event at Pioneer Events Center, where he will face Vargas.
“I’m going against a really good fighter, but he doesn’t punch very hard,” said Herrera. “I will go bombs away from the first round. He can’t hurt me. I’m confident I will win this fight. This is a great opportunity for me. I’ve got to start faster than I did against Brandon Rios and I can’t take anything for granted. The fans will get a great fight and definitely be winners on fight night.”
Chaves (26-2-1, 22 KOs) is a tough veteran who has faced some of this generation’s best welterweights, including current unified welterweight champion Keith Thurman. The 31-year-old from Buenos Aires, Argentina, has won three straight fights since battling to a draw against former welterweight champion Timothy Bradley in 2014 including his most recent triumph, a knockout victory over Jean Carlos Prada on June 17.
James (21-1, 9 KOs) is on the comeback trail after suffering the first loss of his career to Yordenis Ugas via unanimous decision on Aug. 12, 2016. The 29-year-old James of Minneapolis, Minnesota bounced back from that loss with a unanimous decision victory over Jo Jo Dan on July 15. James has fought on FS1 and FOX Deportes his last four times in the ring and has recorded three wins in that stretch.  Chaves represents a major challenge for James in his attempt to climb the welterweight ladder as he looks to add another name to his list of victories that includes Wale Omotoso, Javier Molina and Juan Carlo Abreu.
Redkach (20-3-1, 16 KOs) and Molina (29-7, 23 KOs) are both coming off losses and will look to go through each other to regain top contender status. The 31-year-old Redkach, who was born in Ukraine and now lives in Los Angeles, is coming off a split decision loss in a FS1 and FOX Deportes main event to Argenis Mendez in his last fight on May 2. Molina, 34, had one of the best performance of his career in June 2016 when he defeated Ruslan Provodnikov by unanimous decision. The Covina, Calif. native earned a shot at Terrence Crawford in December that saw him lose by TKO in the eighth round.
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

PBC on SUPER CHANNEL: Anthony Dirrell v. Denis Douglin Julian Williams vs. Ishe Smith

PBC on SUPER CHANNEL
 
Anthony Dirrell v. Denis Douglin
Julian Williams vs. Ishe Smith
AIRING LIVE IN CANADA THIS FRIDAY & SATURDAY
EXCLUSIVELY ON SUPER CHANNEL
EDMONTON, Canada (November 15, 2017) – Double-barrelled boxing action is on tap this week for Canadian boxing fans when Super Channel airs back-to-back Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) events this Friday night and Saturday evening, live from separate venues in the United States.
 
“Super Channel is ecstatic to be working with PBC and love the opportunity to bring two exciting back-to- back nights of live fights to our Canadian subscribers,” said Troy Wassill, Director of Programming, Domestic Distributors & Sports for Super Channel.  “It’s about time Canadians get the chance to see these and other great fights.”
Friday’s action is headlined by a 10-round super middleweight clash between former World Boxing Council (WBC) Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (30-1-1, 24 KOs), who will be fighting at home in Flint, Michigan, against the only active professional boxer trained by his mother, Denis “Momma’s Boy” Douglin (20-5, 13 KOs), fighting out of New Jersey. The action starts at 10:30 p.m. ET / 7:30 p.m. PT.
“Douglin has fought a lot of good fighters and I respect him, but he’s standing in the way of my title shot,” Dirrell said. “This is a chance for me to showcase my skills. I’m going for a stoppage, and I think I’m going to get it in the middle rounds. I want to put on a great performance and give the fans something to see. I’m going to get the job done.”
“I’ve taken a lot of fights on short notice and that’s hurt me in the past, but I’ve had ample time and a great training camp to prepare for this fight,” Douglin commented. “I think Dirrell has a problem with guys who aren’t afraid of him and who will actually give him a fight. With my style and determination, I’m going to bring a lot more than he’s expecting. I’m going to bring it for 10 rounds and I know I’ll have my arm raised at the end of the day.”
Two exciting matches are on the “Dirrell vs. Douglin” card, presented by Salita Promotions and TGB Promotion, will air in Canada exclusively on Super Channel.
 
The eight-round co-featured event is a rematch between two talented welterweight prospects,Jamontay “The Quiet” Clark (12-0, 7 KOs), of Cincinnati, and Ukrainian Ivan “The Volk” Golub (13-1, 11 KOs), now fighting out of Brooklyn (NY). Clark won a highly-contested, eight-round decision this past June 30th
The following evening, commencing at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT live from the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, world title challenger Julian “J Rock” Williams (23-1-1, 15 KOs), of Philadelphia, will square off against former International Boxing Federation Junior Middleweight World ChampionIshe “Sugar Shay” Smith (29-8, 12 KOs), who will be fighting at home.
“I took this fight just like I’ve taken every tough fight over the years,” Smith noted. “I constantly challenge myself to the best and I believe Julian Williams is one of the best in the division. If you look at my resume, all I’ve done is fight the best guys, in their prime, so this is nothing new to me. I’ve reached the point where I’ve seen it all. This fight will get me exactly where I need to be, closer to a world title shot.”
“We’ve been working hard for months and I’m ready to get back in the ring,” Williams remarked. “I could fight tomorrow. I know this is an important fight for my career. Ishe is a veteran and he is going to bring his ‘A’ game to try to prove he’s still got it. I’m not going to give him that opportunity. I will be victorious and show that I’m ready to fight the best in the world.”
Three entertaining bouts on the “Dirrell vs. Douglin” card, presented by Salita Promotions and TGB Promotion, will air in Canada exclusively on Super Channel.  
 
In the 10-round co-feature, veteran light heavyweight Lionell Thompson (18-4, 11 KOs) takes on unbeaten prospect Earl Newman (10-0-1, 7 KOs).
Thompson is on the trail of a 175-pound world championship and he hasn’t taken the easy road, having challenged the likes of Sergey Kovalev and Radivoje Kalajdzic during his pro career. The 32-year-old out of Buffalo, N.Y. is coming off a knockout victory over Steve Lovett in his last fight February 24. The last time he fought at the Cosmopolitan, he defeated Donovan George by unanimous decision on Sept. 16, 2016.
Newman will be taking a big step forward in taking on his toughest competition to date in Thompson. The 26-year-old Brooklyn-native is coming off a split draw against Paul Parker onSept. 19 after winning his first 10 pro fights.
In the other televised fight a pair of undefeated super featherweight prospects, 2012 Olympic Silver medalist from Mongolia, Tugstsogt Nyambayar (8-0, 8 KOs), who now fights out of Carson, California, and Filipino Harmonito “Hammer” Dela Torre (19-0, 12 KOs), battle in a 10-round match.
Super Channel has aired several major boxing events live in 2017 including Brook vs. Spence Jr., Pacquiao vs.Horn, Eubank, Jr. vs. Abraham, Lomachenko vs. Marriaga, Crawford vs. Indongo, Smith vs. Williams 2, and the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) quarterfinals.
To watch PBC on Super Channel, as well as more exciting boxing to come, fight fans in Canada can contact their local cable provider to subscribe to Super Channel and all that it offers, including premium series, movies and much more, for as low as $9.95 per month.
About Super Channel
 
Super Channelis a national premium pay television network, consisting of four HD channels, four SD channels, and Super Channel On Demand.
 
Super Channel’s mission is to entertain and engage Canadian audiences by providing a unique and exclusive entertainment experience.  With a core foundation of integrity and accountability, we dedicate ourselves to implementing innovative programming strategies and unparalleled team work that provides viewers with exceptional value and variety.
 
Super Channel is owned by Allarco Entertainment 2008 Inc., an Edmonton-based media company.
 
Super Channel is currently available on Bell TV, Shaw Direct, Rogers Anyplace TV, Shaw Cable, Cogeco Cable, Access Communications, Bell Alliant TV, Source Cable, SaskTel, MTS, Novus, EastLink, TELUS, Videotron, Westman Communications and other regional providers.
 
Connect with Super Channel:
Twitter: @SCSportsTV
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Ishe Smith Training Camp Notes

 
Former World Champion Meets Top Contender Julian Williams in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce Live from
The Chelsea Inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on 
Saturday, Nov. 18
 
LAS VEGAS (November 14, 2017) – Former world champion Ishe Smith will look to stake his claim to another world title opportunity when he battles top contender Julian Williams in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce live from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on Saturday, November 18.
Smith knows that Williams provides a steep challenge and the veteran will have to be at his best to hold off the hungry title contender.
“Julian Williams is tough, one of the toughest in the division,” said Smith. “I don’t overlook his talent and what he brings to the sport. I’ve been in boxing going on 17 years, so I’ve seen a lot. Williams hasn’t been tested in all the ways I have. Unlike my opponent, I’ve been in the ring with all levels of fighters: world champions, rising prospects and former world champions. I’ve seen it all.”
The winner of his last two contests, Smith most recently defeated then once-beaten Frank Galarza last September. On November 18, Smith looks to prove that his experience and hard work in training camp will make all the difference once the bell rings.
“This camp is definitely different than my last one, in the sense that I feel more prepared,” said Smith. “I have been conditioning my body to go the distance like I have with all fights. With my experience, coupled with my trainer Rafael Ramos, who has been great in preparing me for any and all curveballs my opponent may try and hand me, I’m ready.
“Training for fights becomes more challenging the longer you stay in the sport, but I’ve always kept it a habit to fine tune my body throughout the year, because at any moment you can get that call. My work and my mindset have improved dramatically and by November 18I’ll be exactly where I need to be.”
The Las Vegas-native will fight in his hometown for the 19th time as a professional and as always, the first Las Vegas-born world champion hopes to make “Sin City” proud with his performance.
“My city has supported me since day one,” said Smith. “It feels great to headline another show in my hometown. Through my up and downs my fans have always been there and supported me and this fight won’t be any different; All I can do is get out there and put on a hell of a show. It’s a special feeling to have home court advantage.”
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Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are priced at $29, $39, $59, $69, $89 and $149 and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 and www.ticketmaster.com.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. and features Lionell Thompson clashing with unbeaten prospect Earl Newman in a 10-round light heavyweight bout plus unbeaten prospects Tugstsogt Nyambayar and Xavier Martinez going head-to-head in a 10-round featherweight fight.
Bounce is the fastest-growing African-American 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 has grown to be available in 99 million homes across the United States and 95% of all African-American television homes.
 
Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce will be available to be streamed live via Bounce’s new subscription-video-on-demand service Brown Sugar, which features an extensive and one-of-a-kind library of iconic black movies as well as Bounce original programming and series. Brown Sugar is available on Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Channels, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Kindle, Android and Apple smartphones and tablets and web browsers via BrownSugar.com. Brown Sugar also has Google Chromecast capabilities which allow video to play on televisions directly from mobile devices and tablets for consumers with Android and iOS devices. There is a free initial trial period for subscribers with a retail price of $3.99/month thereafter.
For more information visit: www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BounceTV, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm , become a fan on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV. Follow the conversation using #PBConBounce. PBC on Bounce is sponsored by Corona: La Cerveza Mas Fina.
Bounce 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 has grown to be available in more than 94 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 are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.
For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.

DEONTAY WILDER RETAINS WBC HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE WITH DEVASTATING FIRST-ROUND KNOCKOUT OF BERMANE STIVERNE SATURDAY NIGHT ON SHOWTIME® FROM BARCLAYS CENTER

Shawn Porter Scores Unanimous Decision Win Over Adrian Granados in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Co-Feature
 
Catch The Replay Monday, Nov. 6 at 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®
Watch the Wilder KO: http://s.sho.com/2zguBki
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions 
BROOKLYN (Nov. 5, 2017) – Undefeated heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder retained his WBC title in his sixth defense with a dominant first-round knockout of mandatory challenger Bermane Stiverne in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday night on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.
Wilder (39-0, 38 KO’s) knocked Stiverne (25-3-1, 21 KOs) to the ground three times before referee Arthur Mercante halted the bout at 2:59 of the opening round. After Stiverne took Wilder the distance in their January 2015 title bout, Wilder has now knocked out every single opponent that he has faced in his career. Watch Wilder knocking out Stiverne HERE.
“So much frustration, it just seemed like my career, it’s been crazy. So many guys using PED’s”, said Wilder, the only American heavyweight world champion. “I just want to prove that I am the best. I know I am the best but I want to prove I am the best.”
Wilder first knocked Stiverne to the ground with a devastating one-two combination that caught the Haitian challenger on the nose. Seconds after Stiverne got back to his feet, Wilder landed another clean combination with a big left and an overhand right that sent a stunned Stiverne back to the canvas. The final blow came in the waning moments of the opening round as Wilder landed four clean punches to the face of a wobbly Stiverne.
“You have to give props to Stiverne for getting in the ring,” said Wilder. “It takes a lot of courage and it takes a lot of pride to step in the ring with someone like me. We do what we have to do in the ring and at least he stepped up. He was a clean fighter.”
After the brutal knockout, an emotional Wilder was asked by SHOWTIME Sports®reporter Jim Gray about a possible fight with unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.
“I’ve been waiting on that fight for a long time now,” said Wilder. “I declare war upon you. Do you accept my challenge? I’ve been waiting for a long time. I know I’m the champion. I know I’m the best. Are you up for the test?
“A king doesn’t chase the peasants. A king takes kings. I want Joshua. If he doesn’t give me the fight we have other plans. The world wants Joshua, the world wants Wilder, I want Joshua. Joshua come and see me baby. No more dodging, no more excuses. Make the date, don’t wait.”
Former welterweight world champion Shawn Porter (28-2-1, 17 KOs) defeated Adrian Granados (18-6-2, 11 KOs) via unanimous decision (scored 117-111 by all three judges) in an exciting fight between two all-action competitors that served as the co-featured event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. The victory makes Porter the mandatory title challenger for unified welterweight champion Keith Thurman’s WBC belt.
Porter, who injured his left hand in the sixth round, landed the sharper and more accurate punches throughout the fight, including 40 percent of his power punches. Both fighters came out aggressive in the early rounds and exchanged several powerful blows.
“He gave me a little trouble here and there,” said Porter. “I hurt my left hand in the sixth round, but I kept using it. I had to use my jab. It took a toll on me and by the 10th round I just couldn’t throw it anymore.
“The strategy was to keep working the jab. I knew he’d come at me periodically. I was prepared and dug deep to get the win.”
Granados, of Cicero, Ill., fought valiantly and withstood multiple barrages from the powerful Porter and countered with several quick combinations of his own. Granados, who landed just 24 percent of his total punches, disagreed with the judges’ scorecard.
“I thought that I was controlling the fight and keeping up with him the whole time,” Granados told Jim Gray. “He was just trying to use his normal tricks. I rocked him multiple times and he never had me in any trouble.
“He’s a brute. I thought the referee [Gary Rosato] did a good job breaking up the fight at the right times. It was rough but I definitely thought I did better than the scorecards said.”
In the opening bout of the telecast, unbeaten top contender Sergey Lipinets (13-0, 10 KOs) earned the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship with a unanimous decision victory over Japanese veteran Akihiro Kondo (29-7-1, 16 KOs). The judges scored the fight118-110, 117-111 and 117-111.  
The back-and-forth 12-round world championship fight saw Lipinets control the early rounds with a diversified, creative attack targeting Kondo’s body. An accidental clash of heads in the sixth round, which opened up a deep cut on the forehead of Lipinets, altered the momentum of the fight as Kondo gained confidence and was able to land some powerful punches to the head and body of Lipinets. The 28-year old Lipinets, who earned the title in just his 13th professional fight, was able to regain control in the later rounds to earn the unanimous win.
“I think the scorecards were accurate but it was a good fight,” said Lipinets. “The head-butt really impaired my vision and it led to me walking into some stupid shots.
“I’m happy with my performance. I’m just going to keep getting better from here. I’m ready to take any on challenge thrown my way.”
Kondo, who was fighting for the first time in the United States, proved a worthy opponent on the night. “It was a fair decision,” said Kondo, through a translater. “He hit me with a lot of hard punches and I felt like I needed at least a knockdown in the last round.
“I made up my mind that I wasn’t going to show any pain or fear from his punches. I was determined to keep fighting all night.”
Saturday’s telecast will replay on, Sunday, November 5 at 9 a.m. ET/PT and Monday, November 6 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®.
This event was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions.
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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions@BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook  at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,  and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.

SHOWTIME SPORTS® VIDEO CLIP HIGHLIGHTS FORMER HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION BERMANE STIVERNE AHEAD OF HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH

 

 

Feature to air during SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®

Heavyweight Championship Nov. 4

 

“He took my title away from me. This is something I need back” – Bermane Stiverne

 

 

Photo Credit: SHOWTIME


Watch, View & Share Via YouTube: http://s.sho.com/2iRTWge

Download For Your Video Player: https://we.tl/0vUYWs2gDG

 

Video Restrictions: News outlets are cleared to use this clip on broadcast and digital platforms. Broadcast outlets must verbally mention that Wilder-Stiverne airs LIVE on SHOWTIME on November 4. Digital outlets must reference Wilder-Stiverne, November 4 and LIVE on SHOWTIME in the accompanying copy.

 

WHAT: SHOWTIME Sports today released an advanced look at a video feature of former heavyweight world champion Bermane Stiverneas he prepares to take on reigning champion Deontay Wilder in an attempt to recapture his WBC Heavyweight title.

 

The Heavyweight Championship rematch headlines the November 4 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, a Premier Boxing Champions event LIVE on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

The feature will air in its entirety on Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast.

 

“This is the fight that everyday runs through my mind and it bothers me,” said Stiverne. “I don’t think I lost the fight because he was better than me. I lost the fight because of health problems.”

 

Looking ahead to Saturday night’s world title rematch, Stiverne explained how there is no love lost between the two heavyweights. “The matter between he and I is very personal,” Stiverne admitted. “He took my title away from me. This is something I need back, but it’s so much more than that. I’ll make him feel my pain.”

 

Deontay Wilder vs. Bermane Stiverne Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
Heavyweight World Title Showdown Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader Saturday, November 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
(Photos include Times Square Photo-op with Wilder)
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (November 2, 2017) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder and former world champion Bermane Stiverne went face-to-face and exchanged words onstage Thursday at the final press conference before they battle in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event this Saturday, November 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
 
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions, the event features former world championShawn Porter taking on Adrian Granados in a welterweight world title eliminator. The three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten Sergey Lipinets battling Japan’s Akihiro Kondo for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship.
Joining the fighters and press conference participants onstage was Hall of Fame Promoter Don King, who promotes Stiverne and predicted that his fighter would shock the world and deliver an upset on Saturday night.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.combarclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Edison Ballroom in Manhattan:
DEONTAY WILDER
“Stiverne was the only man to survive the ‘Alabama Slammer’ and avoid a knockout. When I knock him out, then nobody will be able to say they made it through against me. He was nothing but a lot of lumps and excuses after the first fight.
“It’s been a long road for me. I’ve had my ups and my downs. The ups I’ve celebrated, but the downs have hurt the most. It’s all led me to here. All I ever wanted to do is prove to the world that I am the best. I am the baddest. I hit the hardest. I am the most feared. My record speaks for itself.
“Winner takes all. I am a man of my word. We’ve heard Bermane Stiverne say these same things before. We’ve heard it all before. What happened the first time? Everybody knows. Hopefully he doesn’t get dehydrated this time.
“This just turned up into a whole other level. The ambulance better be ready. The medical teams better be ready. The referee better be ready. They better have that towel to be able to throw it in because every blow is going to mean something. This just got even more personal.
“There’s nothing different that he can bring to the table. He brought everything he could bring the first time. He brought all his tricks – all his power. There’s nothing he’s going to be able to do this time. The only thing he’s going to be able to do is pick his spot on the ground where he’s going to lay at.”
“I do my talking and my walking in that ring. That’s what it’s all about. That’s why we’re here. November 4 the truth with reveal itself. That’s when it counts. When Deontay Wilder speaks, I mean what I say. But I’m going to show you, instead of tell you, on Saturday night.
“This will be an electrifying fight. That belt isn’t going anywhere. I will unify the division. I will be the undefeated, undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.”
BERMANE STIVERNE
“Deontay Wilder has been trying to duck me. He’s been giving a lot of excuses about my career. He should be happy if I’ve been inactive. He should be jumping in the air. Everyone knows that means he’s scared. He knows what time it is.
“He already gave me his best. I had nothing last fight. But now I’m a very dangerous man. Everyone here knows what time it is.
“I feel great and I feel strong. There will be no excuses this time. I can guarantee you this. I’m 100 percent this time.
“Deontay said he fears for my life. Well, I don’t fear for his life. I’m going to do whatever it takes to grab that title. And I’ll walk away with a smile on my face.
“You caught me sleeping last time. Nobody is going to be sleeping this time. I’m going to be on you all night. It’s over for you.
“This is a fighter that I took him the longest rounds in any of his fights. He had never gone past seven or eight.
“He’s like a third round or fourth round knockout guy depending on the level of his opponent. Anyone that would be a decent or strong opponent, he’s not going to last. From rounds six through 12 he didn’t do much. Everything was in the first six.
“His last fights that I’ve watched, I haven’t seen any progress.
Saturday, November 4 I will be two-time heavyweight champion of the world. No one can stop me. He can smile all he wants. But on Saturday I’m taking that belt home with me.”
SHAWN PORTER
“I’m glad to be back. I’m excited to fight once more before the year is done. This is really another tremendous fight card and I’m honored to be a part of it.
“I’m getting the seats warm this time before Deontay comes to close the show. You’re definitely going to want to be paying attention to this fight.
“I wanted to get back in the ring. Adrian Granados was also looking for a fight and was willing to accept the fight. It’s as simple as that. I’m a boxer and my job is to compete against the best. Right now, he’s the best challenge that I have.
“This is a great matchup. This is really fan friendly action everyone is going to see. I know I’m facing an aggressive guy who is going to come at me with everything he’s got.
“I enjoy every bit about fighting at Barclays Center. The energy is always great in that building. The atmosphere is really unbelievable. I’m happy to fight there again.
“The respect that Granados and I have for each other, that’s what boxing is all about. It’s about getting in the ring and competing. We wanted someone that was going to come here and fight me. We didn’t want someone who was going to run or lay down. We want to close the year out in fantastic form, and the best way to do that is by facing Granados.”
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“I’m very grateful to be here and have this opportunity against Shawn Porter. I appreciate it and I thank him and his team. This is definitely going to be a great fight.
“I’m fighting for everyone back home and all the people that are with me every day. Everyone knows how dedicated we are and that will all come together on fight night.
“This is all about proving myself and showing that I belong with the best of the sport. I have to take an opportunity like this when it’s offered to me. There’s nothing to do now but get in the ring and get down to business.
“This is a tremendous opportunity. I’m coming to win, not lay down. I’m here to fight. We both have fan-friendly styles and may the best man win.”
SERGEY LIPINETS
“This is a dream come true for me. I had to work very hard and overcome a lot to get to this point. Now that I’m here, I want to give the fans a great fight.
“I’m going to go for the knockout and become a world champion. This is the thing that motivates me every day through this hard training camp.
“I am prepared for anything Kondo can bring to the ring. He has earned his right to fight for the title and I have to take him very seriously and be at my very best.”
AKIHIRO KONDO
“I’m going to do my best to win for all of my fans in Japan. I’m going to take this world title belt back home to Japan and I’m happy to have the support of my country.
“I’ve come a long way to get here. This is the mecca of boxing. I feel really relaxed and calm. This feels like a normal fight for me still.
“No matter what happens in this fight, I think that is going to come down to heart. I am determined not to lose in that area.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“This is a terrific card from top to bottom. I love this show. Dominic Breazeale vs. Eric Molina, Amanda Serrano a pound-for-pound champion, and two undefeated local kids Chris Colbert and Titus Williams, all featured on this card. The show is truly loaded with talent and stars.
“Nothing gets bigger than the defense of America’s only heavyweight championship. Deontay Wilder defending his title against Bermane Stiverne, the only man that Deontay has not been able to knockout.
“This is a dangerous fight. Stiverne is big, strong and he can punch. This is Christmas for him. He has nothing to lose. He can walk out of here with the heavyweight championship of the world.
“Shawn Porter is fighting against a real deserving challenger. Shawn is a champion with or without a belt, and Granados always makes great fights and he’s going to give it 120 percent.
“Kondo is a very accomplished fighter, but he’s going to have his hands full with Sergey LIpinets. Whenever LIpinets gets in the ring, someone gets hurt. I think he has a chance to go very far.”
DON KING, Hall of Fame Promoter
“I want to thank all of these young men up here who are fighting for the crown. Stiverne has something in store for Wilder on Saturday night that will be a shock. It’s going to be the Fight of the Year. Unquestionably.
“Deontay has never really met Bermane Stiverne, so I’m going to introduce them. It’s going to be a fantastic night of fighting at Barclays Center. You will have a tremendous upset on Saturday night when Bermane Stiverne knocks out Deontay Wilder.
“After this happens, we can have a rubber match. It will be an exciting time for me on Saturday night and the start of a ‘November to Remember.'”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“This weekend’s telecast will be the second weekend of heavyweight title fights on SHOWTIME. We all know these two faced each other in 2015, but neither fighter went home happy. Deontay was impressive but he didn’t get the knockout. Stiverne is the only blemish on Wilder’s perfect knockout streak. Ever since that fight, Bermane has been asking for the rematch. On Saturday both men will get their wish. Deontay can send a message to the rest of the division and Bermane gets a second chance at a world title
“The first time they fought, everyone saw it as Deontay’s toughest opponent. Out of 42 media members, 22 predicted Deontay to win and 20 picked Stiverne. This is an all-action heavyweight fight with America’s heavyweight world champion.
“Sometimes a big fight can suck up the attention from the co-featured fights on the card. Both of these opening bouts could have been a main event and would be a main event on any other network. Porter and Granados is an intriguing matchup of all action fighters and if you haven’t seen Sergey LIpinets fight, I urge you to turn on the TV early and get to the arena, because this will be an entertaining fight.
“By the end of the night we will have done 29 world title fights this year alone. There is no other network that could put on that many high quality fights. We look forward to closing the year on a strong note on Saturday night.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
This Saturday will be our last Brooklyn boxing event of the year. It’s been an incredible 2017. It started with Badou Jack vs. James DeGale, then in March the Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia fight, which was probably the biggest we ever had at the arena. It hit new marks that we hadn’t seen before. This summer we had the Mikey Garcia vs. Adrien Broner fight and we’ve also seen the Charlo brothers fight at Barclays Center in 2017 and become stars.
“It’s been a great year full of memorable moments and I couldn’t think of a better way to end the year than with Deontay on Saturday night. When Deontay defended his title at Barclays Center last year, it was the first heavyweight title fight in the borough of Brooklyn in 115 years and we’re excited to have him back.”
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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions@BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook  at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,   and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment

Deontay Wilder vs. Bermane Stiverne Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Heavyweight World Title Showdown Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader Saturday, November 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (November 1, 2017) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder and former world champion Bermane Stiverne showed off their power and skills at the media workout Wednesday in Brooklyn before they meet in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, November 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
 
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions, the event features former world championShawn Porter taking on Adrian Granados in a welterweight world title eliminator. The three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten Sergey Lipinets battling Japan’s Akihiro Kondo for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.combarclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Joining the televised fighters at Gleason’s Gym on Wednesday were five-time world champion Amanda Serrano, who returns to the ring in undercard action Saturday. Also in attendance were unbeaten prospects Chris Colbert and Titus Williams, who meet in an eight-round featherweight attraction.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
DEONTAY WILDER
“Stiverne is going to see me come to Barclays Center and finish the job on Saturday. He survived the first time. He’s the only one to survive on their feet. This is something that I’ve come back to. I will finish the job this time.
“Stiverne had a lot of excuses after the last fight. Nobody wants to hear excuses from the loser. He knows what happened. I beat him 12 rounds in a row. I think this fight will be even easier for me. He hasn’t improved since we last fought, but I’m going to show him a whole new Deontay Wilder. This is the end of Bermane Stiverne’s career right here.
“As soon as Anthony Joshua accepts the fight, then I’ll be there. They’re trying to distract people because they know that I’m a danger to anybody’s career. All their excuses have nothing to do with the sport of boxing. The only thing people care about is the best fighting the best, and that’s what I’m trying to do.
“I thought the first Stiverne fight should have been stopped. He had knots all over his faced and was concussed. I’m not trying to leave any doubt this time around.
“This is my mandatory opponent. I must face him and that’s just what it is. I’ve called out every name in the sport. All the top guys have ducked me, so I just have to take care of the people that are able to get in the ring.”
BERMANE STIVERNE
“I have no fear heading into this fight. It’s not that I didn’t see the openings in the last fight, I just couldn’t physically perform how I needed to.
“I had health concerns last fight but now I’ve turned the chapter on that and I’m focusedon Saturday night. This is going to be a completely different fight this time around
“I’m hungry to win. I’m always motivated and excited about getting into the ring, but obviously this is the biggest chance I’m going to have.
“The stage is set and my destiny is in front of me. I always said I was going to be the first person to beat him, and that is going to come together on Saturday.
“Everything has been perfect in camp. Deontay is going to be in for a real rude awakening on Saturday. I’m going to let my fists do the talking for me.”
SHAWN PORTER
“This is a great style matchup. I think that’s why this fight was made. We are two guys that are going to go in there and go 12 hard rounds. My job is to get in there and outbox him and get him out of there.
“I don’t think I need to make any adjustments because I can come forward, move around the ring, create angles – I think Adrian isn’t exactly ready for that. My foot movement and of course my hand speed will be the difference.
“This is the second eliminator for me. It is about doing it again. I have to get the job done and get that fight with Keith Thurman.
“I want to make it very clear that I’m the better boxer. I want it to be clear that I can do to Adrian Granados what no one else has been able to do – put him on his butt.
“On all of our gear we wrote #VegasStrong. We want to send a message to everyone in Vegas that I don’t just live there, but it is part of my heart now. My heart goes out to everyone affected by the tragedy and now we are over a month past that. I am fighting for the people of Vegas.”
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“It means a lot to me to be in this fight on this stage. I definitely need to win and bounce back from my loss to Broner and show that I have a lot more to give to this sport. I’m far from down and out, I just showed up to the party and I’m ready to leave my mark.
“I think 147 is a weight that I’ll be good at. I’ve fought here and at 140-pounds so I’m comfortable either way. This was just an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up.
“I never fight the same way. This is a fight and it’s going to have everything that comes with that. I’m going to be prepared for what Shawn Porter brings to the ring. This fight kind of came out of nowhere but it was easy for me to agree to.
“This is a great opportunity to prove that I’m able to fight with anyone in this sport. I can compete on the highest level and I’m going to show everyone that I’m a force on fight night.”
SERGEY LIPINETS
“I’m very happy right now. I’m very excited to fight for a title, but I know how to contain my emotions and direct them in a positive way. When I get in the ring, I’m going to make everyone else happy with my performance.
“I had great sparring partners for this camp and I’ve worked hard with Buddy McGirt to get in the best shape possible. My team did a great job getting me to this point so I couldn’t be happier.
“At this level, there are no bad fighters. Anyone who walks in the ring and stands in their across from me should be respected.
“My preparation for this fight has been at the same level as it was for all of my other fights. I always train like the title is on the line. I always bring my best and I know that Kondo will do. He’s trying to take advantage of this opportunity too.
“I was here in March fighting on the Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia undercard and I knew that one day I would be fighting for the title in that same arena. I love New York and I love the boxing fans here. This is just a great event and I hope everyone sees my performance.”
AKAHIRO KONDO
“I had a really strong training camp. I feel ready to fight. I’m ready to go today If I had to. Everything in camp went as well as I could have hoped.
“I know that Lipinets is a hard puncher and a very good overall fighter. I’m going to do my best to avoid the big shots and use my skills.
“I want to put on a performance that will guarantee that people will remember my name. I think it’s going to be a really good fight and make me more well-known throughout the world. I’m not just doing this for myself, but for everybody back home.
“I’m so grateful and excited to have the opportunity to be on this card. I know how fortunate I am to be in this position and I’m ready to make the most of it.”
AMANDA SERRANO
“Every fight is huge for me to show that I’m still winning and continuing to get better. I love fighting at Barclays Center on big shows like this one. It’s always fun to fight in front of your fans and hopefully as I gain recognition I can bring bigger and better things to women’s boxing.
“I’m always looking for the next big challenge. Eventually I would like to break my own record and look to grab a title in a sixth weight class. I’m ready to take on the best fighters and the biggest challenges.
“You can’t underestimate anyone in this sport, so we trained very hard leading up to this one. She’s coming in here to knock my head off. This camp was actually a little different because I didn’t have to diet for this fight. I could actually eat at this weight and I’m feeling really strong.
“I’m facing a tough girl who’s only been stopped twice, so my goal is to make this one quick. The faster the fight the easier for me and it gives the fans something to get excited about.”
CHRIS COLBERT
“I’m different from a lot of other up-and-coming fighters in this business. I’m willing to take risks. In this boxing game it’s either win or lose, and I’m in it to win.
“I’m familiar with Titus as a fighter and I know that I have what it takes to beat him. That’s the name of the game and that’s the goal on Saturday.
“Training camp was tremendous. This was the longest camp that I’ve ever had. We’ve gone strong for seven weeks straight. No days off, just hard work every day.
“I feel 100 percent healthy right now. Everything happens for a reason. That minor setback that I had, it’s leading to a major comeback starting on Saturday night.
“I love to fight in my city. It’s always great to have my city behind me. Once I get in the ring though, it’s just another day for me. I’m going to show off my skills. I’m going to bring everything I need to get this win.”
TITUS WILLIAMS
“Taking on a fight like this proves that I’m fearless. I’m willing to take on all the challenges in this sport. I’m not looking to pad my record with easy wins. When there is a challenge put in front of me, I’m ready willing and able to face it.
“I’m in the best shape of my life right now. I’ve never felt this good heading into a fight. Mentally and physically I’m in a really good place and ready to go.
“Colbert has speed, he’s crafty and he’s slick. He’s going to come to fight and he’s going to come to win. But I’m going to break his will.
“All of those attributes that he has, I have the same ones. But I have the difference maker. In the professional game, that difference maker is power.
“I’m facing a guy I came up with during the amateurs and went on national trips with. None of that really matters to me when the bell rings. I have to go in there and do my job, and that’s to win.”
###
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
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Premier Boxing Champions Swings Through November With Four Shows on SHOWTIME, FS1, FOX Deportes & Bounce Delivering Something for Every Boxing Fan

 
Highlights Include a Heavyweight Championship Showdown;
Former Champions on the Comeback Trail; Talented
Contenders Battling for Titles and Top Rankings Plus Unbeaten
Prospects Fighting to Climb the Ladder
LAS VEGAS – (November 1, 2017) – Premier Boxing Champions swings through the month on November with a slate of four shows on three separate networks that will include entertainment for every kind of boxing fan.
“The month of November demonstrates the wide variety of matches that Premier Boxing Champions is proud to present,” said Tim Smith, Vice President of Communications for Haymon Boxing.
“You have exciting heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder defending his title; top-rated contender Sergey Lipinets battling for a world title; former champions like Shawn Porter, Anthony Dirrell, and Devon Alexander aiming to get into title fights; contenders like Julian Williams fighting for a second title shot and unbeaten prospects like Earl Newman and Miguel Cruz looking to rise up the ranks. So there is truly something for everyone.”
The month kicks off with undefeated heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder defending his title against top-ranked contender Bermane Stiverne at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on SHOWTIME on Nov. 4 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. In the co-main event former welterweight champion Shawn Porter will take on Adrian Granados, and Sergey Lipinets battles Akihiro Kondo for the 140-pound championship. Wilder took away the title from Stiverne (25-2-1, KOs) with a unanimous decision when the two met in 2015. Stiverne is the only man to go the distance against Wilder (38-0, 37 KOs).
Former 168-pound champion Anthony Dirrell (30-1-1, 24 KOs) will battle Denis Douglin (20-5, 13 KOs) in a special edition of TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS  on FS1 andBOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in his hometown of Flint, Michigan on Friday, Nov. 17 at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT. Dirrell, 32, will be fighting at home for just the third time in his career and wants to regain the title that he lost to Badou Jack in 2015. In the co-feature Domonique Dolton (19-1-1, 10 KOs) enters the ring for an eight-round welterweight fight.
The next night former 154-pound world champion Ishe Smith (29-8, 12 KOs) will take on Julian Williams (23-1-1, 15 KOs) in a 10-round super welterweight showdown from the Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas on Bounce  Saturday, Nov. 18 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Smith, who is the first Las Vegas-born boxer to win a world title, will be defending his home turf against Williams and is hoping to move into position to fight for another title since his most recent title challenge of Erislandy Lara in 2014. Williams is on the comeback trail after losing via TKO to Jermall Charlo in his first world championship match last December. The co-main event features unbeaten light heavyweight prospect Earl Newman taking on Lionell Thompson in a 10-round light heavyweight bout.
Former welterweight champion Devon Alexander (26-4, 14 KOs) will battle rugged contender Walter Castillo (26-4-1, 19 KOs) on TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS  on FS1 andBOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes from The Coliseum in St. Petersburg, Florida on Tuesday, Nov. 21 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. In the co-main event, unbeaten Miguel Cruz (16-0, 11 KOs) will take on David Grayton (15-1-1, 11 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight match.
The 30-year-old Alexander will end a two-year layoff due to health issues when he steps in against Castillo. Alexander, of St. Louis, Missouri, won the 147-pound world championship with a unanimous decision victory over Randall Bailey in 2012. He lost the title via unanimous decision against Shawn Porter the next year. Alexander, a southpaw, was a unified champion at 140-pounds and owns victories over Marcos Maidana, Lucas Matthysse and Jesus Soto Karass.  Castillo, 29, will be ending a 16-month layoff and moving up to 147 pounds for the first time to take on Alexander. Castillo lost by TKO to Sergey Lipinets in a 140-pound clash in his last fight.

Anthony Dirrell Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Former World Champion Takes on Denis Douglin in Main Event of
Premier Boxing Champions Event Live on FS1 & FOX Deportes
Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in
Flint, Michigan
 
Click HERE for Photos from Frank Garza
 
DETROIT (November 1, 2017) – Former super middleweight world champion Anthony Dirrell opened up his training camp to media Tuesday a thet Kronk Boxing Gym as he discussed his matchup against Denis Douglin that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions event Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint, Michigan and live on FS1 and FOX Deportes.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and A.D.D. Enterprises in association with Salita Promotions, begin at $20 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit the Dort Federal Credit Union Center box office or visit Ticketmaster.com.
The former super middleweight champion returns to fight in Flint for the third time as a pro and the first time since knocking out Dante Craig at Atwood Stadium in 2011. Dirrell was joined at Kronk by local fighters Alexey Zubov (15-1, 9 KOs)and James Gordon Smith (12-1, 7 KOs), who compete in undercard action on Friday, November 17.
Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday:
ANTHONY DIRRELL
“I feel great because this gives the people of Flint a chance to see world class boxing with one of their own.  We made the tickets cheap so people can come watch great top level boxing. When you buy a ticket the proceeds go to Dirrell’s Chance Foundation, which is something I’m really proud of. The holidays are around the corner and we are going to use these funds to bring some happiness to the kids in the area.
“This is something that I’ve been wanting to do for a long time. I’ve thought about it for a while but the task is still at hand. I still have to take care of my opponent. I’m prepared mentally and physically to go to war.
“I feel great physically. There’s still some work to be done, but if there was a fighttomorrow, I’d be ready. It’s going to be great to get back into the ring on fight night after a long layoff.
“The focus is on sticking to the game plan. You never deviate from that. It’s all about doing what my coaches are telling me to. You can give the fans a great show and stay disciplined boxing at the same time.
“I know that I’ve got all the pressure because I’m fighting at home and I’m going to use it to motivate me. I want to put on the best performance possible. I have a tough opponent who’s looking to spoil my party, but I can’t let that happen.”
ALEXEY ZUBOV
“I look forward to fighting out of my new hometown of Detroit and representing the Kronk Boxing gym.  There has been a revitalization of great boxing in this area and I am happy to be a part of it.
“I will bring a world title back to Detroit, that’s my goal and that’s why I work hard every day. I want to be like the Red Wings’ “Russian Five” and bring glory to Detroit.”
JAMES GORDON SMITH
“I feel very happy about fighting close to home in Flint.  I look forward to putting on a great show on November 17th. These are the kind of opportunities you have to take advantage of to move forward in this sport. I’m ready to show off my skills.
DMITRY SALITA, Salita Promotions
“World class boxing is coming to the Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint on November 17th. Michigan is home to some of the best boxers in our sport and I am very happy to be involved with this promotion.
“Today’s press turnout at our public workout at Anthony’s training camp base in Detroit at the legendary Kronk gym is a testament to the excitement of the local community.November 17th is going to be a special day for the areas sports fans.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by Sampson Boxing.