Category Archives: ShoBox

DEVIN HANEY SCORES IMPRESSIVE DECISION OVER VETERAN JUAN CARLOS BURGOS IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

 

 

 

 

Mattice and Hamazaryan Fight To Split Draw in Highly Anticipated Rematch

 

Catch The Replay Monday, October 1, At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME

O’SHAQUIE FOSTER UPSETS PREVIOUSLY UNBEATEN JON FERNANDEZ WITH UNANIMOUS DECISION IN MAIN EVENT OFSHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

 

 

 

 

Four Fighters Lose Their Undefeated Records, Bringing ShoBox Total To 180

 

Catch The Replay Monday, September 24 At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME

SHAWNEE, Okla. (September 22, 2018) – O’Shaquie Foster upset previously undefeated Jon Fernandez in a battle of ShoBox: The New Generation veterans, scoring an impressive unanimous decision victory over the highly regarded prospect Friday on SHOWTIME from Firelake Arena.   VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: https://s.sho.com/2OI0NUp

 

 

 

Fernandez (16-1, 14 KOs), a protégé of former unified world champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez, became the 180th fighter in the history of the ShoBox series to lose his undefeated record after three other previously undefeated fighters dropped decisions on Friday.

 

 

 

The 25-year-old Foster (14-2, 8 KOs), a resident of Houston, executed his team’s game plan to perfection, utilizing superb movement and connecting opportunistically with counter shots. Foster was far sharper on both offense and defense, connecting on 36 percent of his total punches compared to just 16 percent for Fernandez.

 

 

 

Fernandez was frustrated by Foster, a crafty and experienced fighter who was one win away from representing the United States in the 2012 Olympics. In his previous six bouts, Fernandez averaged 8.4 jab connects per round but was limited to just 13 jabs in tonight’s entire 10-round fight.

 

 

 

“This was the best fight of my career,” said Foster, who was appearing on the ShoBox series for the fourth time. “I knew I had it in me, I just never put it together.  I have a new team, I have a new trainer, a new strength and conditioning coach. This was what I dreamed of and we put in the work to make it happen.

 

 

 

“I knew he was a puncher and he’d come forward the whole fight.  I knew I had to work off my jab and use my lateral movement.  He had a little power, but he never got me clean. We’re going to sit down and look at the drawing board.  I can tell you this, we’re not the B-side anymore.”

 

 

 

Fernandez improved throughout the second half of the fight, landing a big right hand in the sixth round that briefly wobbled Foster. However, the Spaniard was unable to extend his impressive KO streak of 14 consecutive fights.

 

 

 

“His style was frustrating, but we were expecting it,” said the 23-year-old Fernandez, who was widely regarded as one of the top prospects in boxing. “We thought his conditioning would go down and he’d slow down in the later rounds.  He didn’t (slow down) and that surprised me.

 

 

 

 

 

“I feel like we can still get better and better.  We just had a bad game plan for this fight.”

 

 

 

Irvin Gonzalez Jr. (11-0, 9 KOs) out-boxed Carlos Ramos (9-1, 6 KOs) from start to finish to score a unanimous decision victory in the co-featured bout of tonight’s ShoBox: The New Generation telecast. The judges scored the fight 79-73, 78-74, 80-72. Gonzalez, who was the more active and aggressive fighter, kept his unbeaten record intact despite facing a frustrating and defensively shrewd opponent in Ramos.

 

 

 

“It took me a few rounds to figure him out, but once I did he didn’t have anything on me,” said Gonzalez. “He only had the left hand and that was about it.  He really didn’t throw any punches.

 

 

 

“This was a big learning experience for me. This was my second eight-rounder and it opened my eyes a little bit.  I know I’m conditioned well but I have to go back to work.”

 

 

 

The 22-year-old Gonzalez, a fourth-generation boxer in his family and native of Worcester, Mass., outhustled the skillful southpaw Ramos, who was not nearly active enough throughout the eight rounds. The longer, leaner Gonzalez, who averaged 58 punches per round to Ramos’ 28, relied on his length advantage and fought at range.

 

 

 

The tentative and defensive Ramos, on the other hand, landed only 27 punches in the remaining seven rounds after landing 11 in the opening round. Gonzalez, for his part, exceed 50 punches in all but the third round.

 

 

 

In the second bout of the quadrupleheader, Philadelphia’s Steven Ortiz (9-0, 3 KOs) edged Brooklyn’s Wesley Ferrer (12-1-1, 7 KOs) in an evenly-matched and difficult-to-score matchup of undefeated prospects.  The two fighters were separated by no more than five total punches in each round of the majority decision, which was scored 78-74, 77-75, 76-76.

 

 

 

Both fighters fought at a deliberate pace, but neither was able to find their rhythm and consistently land combinations. Ortiz started stronger, but Ferrer grew into the fight and was the busier fighter in the middle rounds. The final two rounds were the deciding factor in the fight. The two judges who had Ortiz winning on their scorecards favored Ortiz in rounds seven and eight.

 

 

 

“I think it was a pretty close fight,” said a disappointed Ferrer. “I thought I was winning the first few rounds, but I know I got out-worked in the last two rounds. At the end of the day, the judges saw something else and he got the win. If I won the last few rounds I would have won the fight.”

 

 

 

Ortiz, who held a narrow 127-115 advantage in total punches landed and a 99-93 advantage in power punches landed, felt he did enough to win but was not completely satisfied with his performance.

 

 

 

“I was coming off a long layoff and wasn’t as sharp as I should have been,” said the 25-year-old Ortiz. “I landed the sharper jabs and landed the harder shots. I think my ring experience and ring generalship was the difference in the fight.

 

 

 

“I want to come back a lot sharper and a lot smarter. At the end of the day, it was a learning experience. I got the win against a tough guy.”

 

 

 

In the telecast opener, Denver’s Misael Lopez (9-0, 4 KOs) got the better of Staten Island’s James Wilkins (5-1, 5 KOs) in a battle of young, previously undefeated super featherweight prospects, tallying a unanimous decision victory (79-72, 77-74, 76-75).

 

 

 

The action-packed fight saw both fighters come out swinging, setting the tempo for the rest of the eight-round bout which saw a total of 1,320 punches thrown. Wilkins brought the pressure to Lopez throughout, but Lopez’s volume of punches, movement and combinations enabled him to control most of the rounds. Lopez’s conditioning proved key. In the final four rounds, Lopez led 139-68 in total connects and landed 213 power punches to just 115 for Wilkins throughout the duration of the eight rounds.

 

 

 

Wilkins, who was featured on the SHOWTIME documentary CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS that premiered immediately preceding tonight’s ShoBox telecast, was deducted a point for a low blow in the fifth round after several warnings. In the seventh round, Wilkins appeared to score a knockdown when he connected with a strong right hand that knocked Lopez off-balance, but referee Mike England ruled that Lopez’s right hand did not touch the mat.

 

 

 

“I think the difference was I was able to make him miss, land the cleaner shots and used my boxing to dictate the pace,” said the 22-year-old Lopez. “I’m looking to keep going and stay on the big stage.  Hopefully people and promoters will notice that I’m the real deal.”

 

 

 

In his national television debut, the ever-confident Wilkins felt wronged by the judges’ scorecards and the referee’s apparent missed knockdown in the seventh.

 

 

 

“I think I did enough to pull it off,” said Wilkins. “I could see a split decision, maybe, but I dropped him and that wins the fight. That was a 10-8 round. I want to go back to the gym, work hard and get right back. You haven’t seen the last of me.”

 

 

 

Tonight’s quadrupleheader was presented by DiBella Entertainment in association with MaravillaBox Promotions, Holden Productions and The Real Deal Boxing, and sponsored by Gagliardi Insurance.

 

 

 

The full telecast will replay on Monday, September 24 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.

 

 

 

Barry Tompkins called the action from ringside with boxing analyst and historian Steve Farhood, who was celebrating 40 years in boxing this week, and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

 

 

In non-televised undercard action, heavyweight Prospect George Arias of Bronx, N.Y. improved to 12-0, 7 KOs with a second-round knockout (2:18) of Byron Polley, (30-24-1, 13 KOs), of St. Joseph, Mo. Polley was down once in the first and again in the second round which resulted in the stoppage.

 

 

 

Junior Middleweight Dennis Knifechief, of Shawnee, Okla. moved to 12-8-1, 7 KOs with a fourth round TKO (1:51) of the valiant Chris Barnes, (4-8-1, 3 KOs) of Tulsa. Barnes fought on after being dropped in the first and second rounds and twice more in the fourth.

 

 

 

 

Top Middleweight Prospect Ardreal Holmes of Flint, Mich., looked dominant and improved to 7-0, 4 KOs with a four-round decision of Houston’s Rick Graham (6-21-3, 2 KOs).  The fight was scored 40-35 twice and 38-37.

 

 

 

 

 

A scheduled six-round cruiserweight battle between Bo Gibbs Jr, (20-1-0, 8 KOs), of Carney, Okla., and David Lujan, (4-9-0, 1 KO), of Wichita, Texas, resulted in a no-contest due to an accidental clash of heads in the first round.

 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,

 

JON FERNANDEZ vs. O’SHAQUIE FOSTER FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATIONTOMORROW LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

 

 

Four-Fight Telecast Begins Live At 9:45 p.m. ET/PT Immediately Following CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS Documentary Chronicling James Wilkins & 2015 New York Golden Gloves At 8 p.m. ET/PT

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME

SHAWNEE, Okla. (September 20, 2018) – Top 130-pound prospect Jon Fernandez and former decorated amateur O’Shaquie Foster made weight on Thursday for their 10-round matchup in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation tomorrow/Friday live on SHOWTIME at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

 

 

 

Fernandez (16-0, 14 KOs), a native of Spain and protégé of former unified champion Sergio Martinez, will face his toughest test to date in Foster (13-2, 8 KOs), a Houston resident who was one win away from representing the United States in the 2012 Olympics.

 

 

 

Friday’s quadrupleheader features eight prospects boasting a combined record of 81-2-1 and 56 KOs.

 

 

 

The telecast opens with James Wilkins (5-0, 5 KOs), who is featured on the SHOWTIME documentary CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS, squaring off against fellow-unbeaten Misael Lopez (8-0, 4 KOs). Staten Island’s Wilkins is a featured fighter in the documentary that chronicles the 2015 New York Golden Gloves, premiering at 8 p.m. ET/PT immediately preceding the ShoBox telecast.

 

 

 

In Friday’s co-feature, undefeated featherweight prospects Irvin Gonzalez Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs), of Worcester, Mass., and Carlos Ramos (9-0, 6 KOs), of Madrid, will collide in an eight-round bout.  Also on the card is Brooklyn’s Wesley Ferrer (12-0-1, 7 KOs), who will face fellow-unbeaten Philadelphia prospect Steven Ortiz (8-0, 3 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout.

 

 

 

FINAL WEIGHTS:

 

 

 

Super Featherweight 10-Round Bout 

Jon Fernandez – 129 ¾ lbs.

O’Shaquie Foster – 129 ½ lbs.

Referee: Laurence Cole; Judges: Sarah Atwood (Okla.), Jesse Reyes (Texas), David Sutherland (Okla.)

 

 

 

Featherweight 8-Round Bout 

Irvin Gonzalez Jr. – 126 lbs.

Carlos Ramos – 125 ½ lbs.

Referee: Mike England; Judges: Mike Bower (Okla.), Henry Gueary (Kan.), Jesse Reyes (Texas)

 

 

 

Lightweight 8-Round Bout 

Wesley Ferrer – 134 ¾ lbs.

Steven Ortiz – 134 ½ lbs.

Referee: Laurence Cole; Judges: Mike Bower (Okla.), Henry Ellick (Okla.), Henry Gueary (Kan.)

 

 

 

Super Featherweight 8-Round Bout 

James Wilkins – 128 ½ lbs.

Misael Lopez – 128 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Mike England; Judges: Sarah Atwood (Okla.), David Sutherland (Okla.), Tim Tallchief (Okla.)

 

 

 

FINAL QUOTES:

 

 

 

JON FERNANDEZ:

“I think I’m ready for a title fight now. I think that we’ve been doing really good work and the time is coming. If I get the opportunity after this fight, I’ll take it. I would fight Tevin Farmer or Ryan Garcia. I’m ready for something bigger.

 

 

 

“Every fight is different. Some fights I need to be really busy and sometimes I need to bring the power. It all depends. I look at myself more as a volume puncher than a power puncher. I like to wear my opponents down round by round.

 

 

 

“I’ve been on SHOWTIME twice and I’ve knocked out both of my opponents. Tomorrow night I will make it three for three.

 

 

 

“I’ve seen a few of Foster’s fights. He’s a fighter that knows how to use his distance and move around a lot. He will be my toughest opponent to date but I’ve fought guys with a similar style before.

 

 

 

“Boxing is gaining popularity all the time in Spain and I hope that my success makes others in Spain want to start boxing.

 

 

 

“I think Foster is going to be faithful to his style and use his distance and move a lot. I’m going to have to attack him and close off the ring. I have to be really intelligent because Foster is a really good counter-puncher and he’s fast. I just have to go to work.”

 

 

 

O’SHAQUIE FOSTER:

“My focus has improved since I’ve started working with my trainer, Bobby (Benton). I’ve improved a lot and my consistency is there. I’ve sharpened up and gotten back to the old me. I had strayed from the way I like to fight and now I’m back to the real O’Shaquie.

 

 

 

“SHOWTIME hasn’t seen the best of me yet. I wasn’t focused my last few fights and I had some bad performances on ShoBox. I’ve gotten all of my demons and bad activities out and now I’m one hundred percent focused on my boxing. I know that once I’m focused, nobody can beat me.

 

 

 

“Fernandez is making a big mistake taking this fight. I’ve never had trouble fighting against tall guys. I just have to use a lot of feints and a lot of movement and I don’t see him troubling me.

 

 

 

“I feel like I have a good team in place. I’ve gotten older, I’ve matured, and I’m as focused as I have ever been. I’ve been in the gym consistently for the last year. After my last fight, I took a few days off and was right back in the gym. This is my fourth fight in less than a year and I’m coming off one of my best performances.

 

 

 

“I made some mistakes away from the ring. I had to pull myself out of it and I wasn’t going to allow my talent to go to waste. This is a big fight for me and I have to prove that I still have a great future in boxing.”

 

 

 

IRVIN GONZALEZ JR.:

“Coming out of the amateurs, I knew I was going to make my mark in due time. I didn’t know if it would be this quickly. This is the whole goal. This is my first time on TV and I want to show my talent.

 

 

 

“Ramos knows how to box, he knows how to go in and out and use his angles, but I do see a lot of things that I can capitalize on. He does hold his right hand down low, and he likes to come over the top with an overhand left hand. He likes to stay out there, and he can get caught when he stays out there. I’m going to show him in the ring what he needs to work on in his craft.

 

 

 

“I can box, but I can also sit down on my punches and fight inside. I like to pick out my punches. It’s not like I’m going in there for the kill – if the kill comes, the kill comes – but I’m picking out my punches. If it comes with a knockout, it comes with the knockout.

 

 

 

“This is the toughest guy I’ve been in with as a pro. We know he’s lefty, we know he’s a pretty hard hitter.  That’s pretty much all we know.

 

 

 

“I switch without even realizing, so fighting a southpaw won’t be a problem. I’m just so comfortable with it that it comes as second nature.”

 

 

 

CARLOS RAMOS:

“I’ve sparred hundreds of rounds with Jon Fernandez. I’m a very different fighter than JonFer. He’s a more come-forward fighter who attacks and tries to cut off the ring. I’m more of a technical boxer that tries to use the jab a lot.

 

 

 

“My style will all depend on how the fight flows. We have a plan to fight Irvin Gonzalez and we think it will be very effective tomorrow night.

 

 

 

“This is a good fight for my career and the type of fight that motivates me. I’m very excited for this opportunity and excited to be here in the United States. I think this will open up many bigger opportunities for me.”

 

 

 

WESLEY FERRER:

“I’ve stayed busy in the gym since my last fight. I was in training camp with Robert Easter not too long ago. I had some ring rust in my last fight because of the layoff but that won’t be an issue this time.

 

 

 

“This is a big fight for my career. This is what’s going to get me to the next step in my career. I’m excited to show everybody who the real Wesley is.

 

 

 

“I can box, I can counter. It all depends on how I feel. If I put my mind on being a brawler, I can do that. If I put my mind to boxing, I can do that. It all depends on my opponent and what the fight plan is. We have a good fight plan for tomorrow night.

 

 

 

“Switching up my stance is something that I can do and something that I’ve been working on. Sometimes I do it without even thinking about it, and in my last fight I was more effective as a southpaw. It’s all about understanding when is the right time to do it.

 

 

 

“My preparation for this fight has been perfect. I have absolutely no issues and you guys will all see the best Wesley Ferrer.”

 

 

 

STEVEN ORTIZ:

“I feel good, I’m ready to go. I don’t know much about Ferrer. I know sometimes he switches to southpaw but we’re just going to adapt to whatever he brings to the table.

 

 

 

“I’ve sparred hundreds of rounds with Tevin Farmer. If I can hit him, I feel like I can hit anybody. That gives me the confidence to face a guy like Ferrer.

 

 

 

“I use my height to my advantage but I’m also learning to fight on the inside. I like to bang, but boxing comes naturally to me. Working with guys like Tevin makes these other fights easy.

 

 

 

“I’m going to be smart, stay patient, use my jab. But if an opening comes I’m going to take advantage of it and try to hurt him. As long as I stay focused and disciplined this will be easy work.

 

 

 

“This is my first time fighting on live TV, this is a great opportunity for me and an experience I’m looking forward to. I just have to take it round by round.

 

 

 

“It’s about being more focused. My mindset before was never, ‘I want to knock them out’. Now, that’s a priority for me. I want to hurt them.”

 

 

 

JAMES WILKINS:

“When I touch him, I promise you I’m going to knock him out. I’ve been under his skin for six weeks. Now that the fight isn’t in his hometown he’s scared to look me in the eyes.

 

 

 

“He’s definitely my toughest (opponent). He’s young, he’s undefeated. He’s been hyped up in Denver. But, if you ask me, I don’t think nothing of him. Denver is not Brooklyn.

 

 

“I’m bigger, I’m smarter, I’m faster.  Everyone I fought hasn’t been stopped until I stopped them. I haven’t fought a 130-pounder yet and now that I am, this fight isn’t going past three rounds.

 

 

 

“I want to be in the top 10. I want to be a rising star. I want to be a world champ by the end of 2020. But I had to take a different route than other fighters. I have my goals and this is the next step. I’m kicking this door down.

 

 

 

“I’m different than a lot of young fighters. My boxing IQ after working with Roy (Jones) is through the roof. I had a good camp. I’m prepared and ready to live my dream and become a star.

 

 

 

“I’ve been working three times a day in the gym. I didn’t fight guys with losing records because I was hand-picking guys. I fought them because I wasn’t given an opportunity.”

 

 

 

MISAEL LOPEZ:

“At first Wilkins got under my skin a little bit on social media, but we blocked it out. He’s a hot head. I think within the first few rounds he’ll come out wild and he’ll be easy for me to counter. It’s going to work against him.

 

 

 

“He’s never been three rounds, but more importantly he’s never fought a guy with a winning record.

 

 

 

“I’ve seen guys who come out aggressive.  I just need to catch him, slow him down and he’ll be out.

 

 

 

“No disrespect to him. He’s a great boxer, he had a great amateur career.  But this is our opportunity to take the next step.

 

 

 

“I’ve gotten a lot smarter in each fight.  I’ve learned to settle down and pick my shots.  I can adapt to any style.  I’ve had fights where I’ve had to brawl, I’ve had fights I had to box.

 

 

 

“We sparred with Shakur Stevenson and got some solid rounds with him for this fight.”

 

 

 

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About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

 

 

 

FORMER WORLD CHAMPION SERGIO MARTINEZ SPEAKS GLOWINGLY OF HIS TOP PROSPECT, JON FERNANDEZ, AHEAD OFSHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION® FRIDAY NIGHT

 

 

Photo Credit: Showtime Sports

 

Fernandez vs. O’Shaquie Foster Headlines ShoBox Quadrupleheader Live at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

 

SHAWNEE, Okla. (Sept. 19, 2018) – Former unified world champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez sees big things for his protégé Jon “JonFer” Fernandez as the undefeated super featherweight prepares for his toughest test to date in O’Shaquie Foster in the headlining bout of ShoBox: The New Generation this Friday, September 21, live on SHOWTIME (9:45 p.m. ET/PT).

 

 

 

Martinez, known for his extensive career and impact inside the ring and now at the helm of Maravillabox Promotions, has managed Fernandez since 2015. Since his pro debut at only 19 years old, Fernandez (16-0, 14 KOs) has climbed the prospect rankings while keeping his unblemished record intact, knocking out 88 percent of his opponents along the way. The 23-year-old Fernandez was named the No. 5 prospect in all of boxing on ESPN’s Top Prospects of 2017 list, and looks poised to challenge for a world title at 130 pounds in the near future.

 

 

 

This Friday’s quadrupleheader features eight prospects boasting a combined record of 81-2-1 and 56 KOs. The telecast opens with James Wilkins (5-0, 5 KOs), who is featured on SHOWTIME’s CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS documentary immediately preceding the ShoBox telecast at 9 p.m. ET/PT, taking on Misael Lopez (8-0, 4 KOs).  Also included on the card is a battle between undefeated featherweights Irvin Gonzalez Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) and Carlos Ramos (9-0, 6 KOs), plus and Brooklyn’s Wesley Ferrer (12-0-1, 7 KOs) colliding with undefeated lightweight Philadelphia prospect Steven Ortiz (8-0, 3 KOs).

 

 

 

This week, the former world champ Martinez spoke to SHOWTIME about what the future might hold for Fernandez and his stablemate, fellow-undefeated prospect Carlos Ramos:

 

 

 

SERGIO “MARAVILLA” MARTINEZ:

 

 

How much has Jon progressed since the last time we saw him on SHOWTIME in June 2017?

 

 

“It’s been over a year since last time Jon fought in the United States. I’ve seen him mature as a person and as a boxer. He’s been in three very difficult fights, he knocked out a Panamanian Olympian and won the WBC Silver belt. He’s now ranked in the top 10 at super featherweight by the WBC.”

 

 

 

How far away do you believe Jon is from challenging for a world title opportunity?

 

 

“With every fight, JonFer is a step closer to an opportunity to showcase his talent on the big stage. I think 2019 will be the year where we see him in a big fight against another top 10 opponent or challenging for a title.”

 

 

 

You have sparred with Jon in the past, how did that go? Do you still train with him?

 

 

“I train with JonFer a few days a week. He’s so strong. I think he’s stronger than most 130-pounders, and he can pack a punch. He’s a power puncher.”

 

 

 

What initially drew you to work with Jon in the beginning?

 

 

“As soon as I met JonFer, I knew I wanted to work with him. His talent stood up right away. I knew he was a hungry, five-star boxer with world championship fever. The perfect prospect.”

 

 

 

How do you feel about the matchup Jon has on Friday night against O’Shaquie Foster?

 

 

“Foster is his toughest rival to date, so naturally I’m a little nervous.  But I know JonFer has what it takes to get the win. I have a second fighter on the card, Carlos Ramos. I’m always a little nervous when my boxers fight. It’s normal.”

 

 

 

Irvin Gonzalez is also undefeated, what does Carlos need to do for the victory?

 

 

“Carlos Ramos doesn’t have to do anything special to defeat Irvin Gonzalez. He just has to be himself. Ramos knows this is the biggest opportunity he has ever had and that this fight can change his life. That’s the best motivation he can have to bring his A-game to the ring on Friday.”

 

 

 

What are you thoughts on Carlos as a prospect?

 

 

“I have high hopes for Carlos. He has a lot of talent and is a southpaw, just like me. He reminds me of myself when I was starting. I believe in his potential.”

 

 

 

Presented by DiBella Entertainment, tickets for the event are priced at $60 for ringside, $40 for floor seats and $30 for general admission and can be purchased online at www.firelakearena.com or at the door on the night of the event.

 

 

 

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About ShoBox: The New Generation

 

 

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

 

 

SHOWTIME SPORTS® RELEASES CONTROVERSIAL THOMAS MATTICE vs. ZHORA HAMAZARYAN FULL-LENGTH FIGHT IN ADVANCE OF REMATCH FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION

 

 

Immediate Rematch Set For Co-Feature Of Tripleheader Featuring Devin Haney vs. Juan Carlos Burgos From Pechanga Resort Casino In Temecula, Calif.

 

Photo Credit: Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

 

Watch, Share or Embed Mattice vs. Hamazaryan: https://s.sho.com/2OhsH9G

WHAT: Fans can relive the controversial first fight between lightweight contenders Thomas Mattice and Zhora Hamazaryan, available now in its entirety on SHOWTIME Boxing YouTube channel ahead of the rematch September 28 in the second of back-to-back Fridays of ShoBox: The New Generation action.

In one of the most widely disputed fights of 2018, Mattice (13-0, 10 KOs) kept his undefeated record intact when he overcame a knockdown in the second round to escape with the eight-round split-decision victory over the previously undefeated Hamazaryan (9-1, 6 KOs). Two judges scored the fight 76-75 in favor of Mattice with the third judge scoring it 77-74 in favor of Hamazaryan.

Less than three months after judges in Iowa awarded Mattice what Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood called “the worst decision I’ve ever seen in the history of ShoBox”, Mattice and Hamazaryan will face off in the co-feature of the ShoBox telecast from Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif.

Hamazaryan, who recently returned stateside after an extended stay to be with family and train in his native Armenia, is looking forward to his opportunity to exact revenge.

“I respect Thomas Mattice,” said Hamazaryan, who is currently training with John Pullman and Buddy McGirt. “He fought a good fight last time, but everyone knows I won the fight and he does too. I respect that I got a rematch and we can settle this once and for all.

“My game plan is to do the same thing I did last time, but just more pressure and aggression. Because of what happened last time, I can’t leave it up to judges. I must get the knockout. If I don’t, then the same thing will happen again and I will get robbed. I can’t have that.”

Mattice, who has watched the July fight multiple times, is hoping to prove that his decision win was no fluke.

“It was important to me to get this rematch so that I can display to the fans the kind of fighter I am and show that I deserved to win the first fight. I’m looking to continue my rise and show the world that I’m the real deal.

“We’re just trying to work on the mistakes we made in the first fight. He may try to do things differently this time, but we’ll adjust and be ready come fight night. It was a controversial decision but I have to remember that at the end of the day I’m a fighter and not a judge. I just have to go out there and fight my fight, and things will be taken care of.”

The September 28 ShoBox is headlined by top undefeated lightweight prospect Devin Haney (19-0, 13 KOs) facing three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos (33-2-2, 21 KOs). The opener will see two undefeated middleweight prospects meet as Cem Kilic (11-0, 7 KOs) and Donnie Marshall (9-0, 6 KOs) face off in the ninth matchup of undefeated prospects of 2018 on ShoBox: The New Generation. The previous Friday, Jon Fernandez (16-0-0, 14 KOs), one of the top prospects in boxing and Sergio Martinez protégé, will face O’Shaquie Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in the main event of a ShoBox telecast from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

For more information visit www.sho.com/sportsfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

UNDEFEATED PROSPECT JAMES WILKINS MAKES NATIONAL TELEVISION DEBUT ON SEPTEMBER 21 SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FOLLOWING PREMIERE OF DOCUMENTARY CHRONICLING HIS PATH THROUGH GOLDEN GLOVES

Former Amateur Standout Featured in Film CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS, Premiering September 21 on SHOWTIME at 8 p.m. ET/PT Prior to ShoBox: The New Generation Telecast 9:45 p.m. ET/PT

 

 

View CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS TRAILER HERE

NEW YORK – September 12, 2018 – Undefeated super featherweight and former amateur standout James Wilkins will make his live television debut on ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, September 21 immediately following the SHOWTIME premiere of CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS, a documentary chronicling Wilkins and the 2015 New York Golden Gloves boxing tournament. Wilkins will face undefeated featherweight prospect Misael Lopez (8-0, 4 KOs) in the opening bout of what is now a four-fight ShoBox telecast. The back-to-back programs will begin at 8 p.m. ET/PT with CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS airing before the live ShoBox telecast at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

Wilkins, of New York City, has five wins and five knockouts since turning professional two years ago following an accomplished amateur run. CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS documents one of the pinnacle moments of his amateur career as the Staten Island native fights through the 10-week tournament in hopes of establishing himself as an elite amateur prospect. Having already won the New York Golden Gloves in 2013 at 123 pounds, CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS chronicles Wilkins’ journey as a 19-year-old competing in the 132-pound class and culminates with a dramatic 2015 championship bout.

“I’m honored to be a part of CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS,” the 22-year-old Wilkins said. “Fighting in the Golden Gloves was a life-changing experience for me and it’s a great feeling to know that boxing fans can watch the documentary on SHOWTIME and then watch my ShoBox debut right after.”

“They call me ‘Crunchtime’ and that’s what I’m bringing to ShoBox on September 21. I’ll be ripping and running and I look forward to putting on a spectacular performance against Misael Lopez.”

Wilkins, who counts former four-division champion Roy Jones Jr. and former two-division champion Paulie Malignaggi as mentors, fought his way to the 2016 Olympic Trails in what was his last amateur tournament. His professional debut came in June of 2016 when he defeated Jack Grady via second-round knockout in a super lightweight contest.

In Friday’s main event, undefeated super featherweight prospect Jon Fernandez (16-0, 14 KOs) will clash with O’Shaquie Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in a 10-round super featherweight bout. In the eight-round co-featured bouts, Irvin Gonzalez Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) meets Carlos Ramos (9-0, 6 KOs) in a featherweight matchup, and Wesley Ferrer (12-0-1, 7 KOs) will face Steven Ortiz (8-0, 3 KOs) in a battle of lightweights.

Presented by DiBella Entertainment, tickets for the event are priced at $60 for ringside, $40 for floor seats and $30 for general admission and can be purchased in advance.

TOP PROSPECT DEVIN HANEY TO FACE FORMER WORLD TITLE CHALLENGER JUAN CARLOS BURGOS IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATIONFRIDAY, SEPT. 28 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

 
 
Immediate Rematch Of Widely Disputed Thomas Mattice vs. Zhora Hamazaryan Bout Set For Co-Feature Of Tripleheader From Pechanga Resort Casino In Temecula, Calif.

NEW YORK (August 20, 2018) – Top undefeated lightweight prospect Devin Haney will face three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos in the 10-round main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader Friday Sept. 28 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif.

 

 

 

The 19-year-old Haney (19-0, 13 KOs) returns for his second consecutive challenge of 2018 on ShoBox, this time against Burgos (33-2-2, 21 KOs), a veteran of 37 fights whose only defeats have come in world championship bouts.

 

 

 

The co-feature of the second Friday of back-to-back ShoBox telecasts will feature an immediate rematch of one of 2018’s most controversial and widely disputed fights. Lightweights Thomas Mattice (13-0, 10 KOs) and Zhora Hamazaryan (9-1, 6 KOs) will face off less than three months after judges in Iowa awarded Mattice what Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood called “the worst decision I’ve seen in the history of ShoBox.”

 

 

 

Two undefeated middleweight prospects will meet in the opening bout of the tripleheader as Cem Kilic (11-0, 7 KOs) and Donnie Marshall (9-0, 6 KOs) face off in the ninth matchup of undefeated prospects of 2018 on ShoBox: The New Generation.

 

 

 

“Devin Haney exceeded all expectations on ShoBox in May and he’s returning in another step-up fight against a three-time world title challenger,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer ofShoBox: The New Generation. “Haney is already one of the best prospects in boxing, and a victory against Burgos could put him in a position for a title shot in 2019.

 

 

 

“We’re thrilled to deliver the immediate rematch between Mattice and Hamazaryan. Simply put, it’s good for the fighters and good for the sport of boxing. Credit goes to the fighters, their promoters and managers that both camps were ready and willing to accept this immediate rematch.”

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Ringside Tickets Inc., priced $19 for General Admission, $29, $59, $79, $99, and $129 for Ringside, are on sale now, and can be purchased by calling the Pechanga Casino Box Office at 1-888-810-8871 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

 

 

 

Devin Haney vs. Juan Carlos Burgos – 10-round lightweight bout

Haney was a seven-time national junior amateur champion and has been considered one of boxing’s top prospects since turning professional at the age of 16 in Mexico. He faced the toughest test of his career this May on ShoBox, shutting out Mason Menard over nine rounds before Menard’s corner threw in the towel before the start of the 10th and final round. VIDEO:https://youtu.be/1NM2lOWdzHw

 

 

 

The young and flashy Haney, who grew up in Oakland, Calif., fights out of Las Vegas, where he has earned a reputation as a prodigy having sparred with Floyd Mayweather, Shawn Porter, Jessie Vargas and Rances Barthelemy. Haney, who is trained and managed by his father, William Haney, received a special exception to make his U.S. debut on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao vs. Timothy Bradley III when he was just 17 years old.

 

 

 

“Burgos is a tough fighter who has been in several world title fights, so I know he’s going to be ready for war,” Haney said. “He’s been in with Mikey Garcia and Rocky Martinez, so I know he’s my toughest opponent to date. I’m ready to shine once again on SHOWTIME, give the fans another great performance and prove I’m ready to take the next step.”

 

 

 

Burgos ran up a 25-0 record with 19 KOs to start his professional career before earning a world title shot when he was just 22 years old, dropping a decision to Hozumi Hasegawa in 2010 in Japan. The Tijuana, Mexico native went unbeaten in his next seven fights, including a draw in a title challenge against then-WBO Junior Lightweight World Champion Roman Martinez.

 

 

 

Burgos challenged 130-pound champion Mikey Garcia in 2014, losing a unanimous decision against the pound-for-pound mainstay. He has since won three consecutive bouts from 2016-17 after taking a nearly three-year hiatus from boxing.

 

 

 

“Devin Haney is good fighter but my experience in big fights will be the difference when we step in the ring,” Burgos said. “My back is against the wall and I’m ready to rise to the occasion and get this victory. He might think he’s the next big thing, but I’m at a whole different level.”

 

 

 

Thomas Mattice vs. Zhora Hamazaryan II – Eight-round lightweight bout

Mattice and Hamazaryan initially faced off in a matchup of unbeaten prospects on July 20, with the judges in Iowa awarding Mattice a 76-76, 76-75, 77-74 split decision. The result, however, was widely disputed. Hamazaryan floored Mattice in the second round and pressed the action in the final three rounds before leaving the decision in the judges’ hands. Two days after the fight, Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions appealed the decision on behalf of their fighter, Hamazaryan.

 

 

 

The 28-year-old Mattice, of Cleveland, had scored five consecutive knockouts before winning the split decision over Hamazaryan. This will be Mattice’s third ShoBox appearance of the year.

 

 

 

“I didn’t hesitate one second when the rematch was offered,” Mattice said. “I’m going into this fight with victory on my mind, and there’s nothing Hamazaryan can do to stop me. My hands will be raised once again.”

 

 

 

Hamazaryan was the No. 1 fighter in Armenia during an amateur career that spanned over 200 fights. The 22-year-old will make his third consecutive start in the U.S. as he looks to avenge the only loss of his professional career.

 

 

 

“Everyone knows I beat Mattice in our last fight but I was robbed,” Hamazaryan said. “Now it’s time to put matters into my own hands and go for the knockout. He better be ready for the onslaught because it’s coming. He went down last time, but this time he won’t be getting up.”

 

 

 

Cem Kilic vs. Donnie Marshall – Eight-round middleweight bout

 

 

Kilic trains in Los Angeles under Buddy McGirt and won silver at the 2012 European Championships for Turkey. The 24-year-old, who recorded an 82-6 record as an amateur, has served as a sparring partner for Errol Spence, Jermell Charlo, Jean Pascal and Miguel Cotto. While Kilic has scored knockouts in five of his last six fights, he will face by far the toughest opponent of his career in Marshall, a fellow unbeaten yet untested prospect.

 

 

 

“This is the turning point in my career fighting on SHOWTIME against another undefeated fighter,” Kilic said. “I’m going to leave it all in the ring and the fans are going to see a great fight. One thing is for sure, I will be victorious.”

 

 

 

Marshall was born in Buffalo, N.Y., and fights out of Raleigh, N.C. Former title challenger Ross “The Boss” Thompson trains the 29-year-old Marshall, who was named the 2017 North Carolina Fighter of the Year.

 

 

 

“I’m ready to take my career to the next level and remain undefeated,” Marshall said. “Kilic is in for a rude awakening. He’s never been in the ring with a hungry fighter like me. I’m going to win and win impressively.”

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at

www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

UNDEFEATED KNOCKOUT ARTIST JON FERNANDEZ TO FACE FELLOW 130-POUND PROSPECT O’SHAQUIE FOSTER FRIDAY, SEPT. 21 LIVE ON SHOWTIME® IN FIRST OF BACK-TO-BACK WEEKS OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION ACTION

 Fernandez-Foster Headlines ShoBox Tripleheader Live at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

 

NEW YORK (August 16, 2018) – Undefeated super featherweight prospect Jon Fernandez will face O’Shaquie Foster in the main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader on Friday, September 21 live on SHOWTIME® at 9:45 p.m. ET/PTfrom Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

 

 

 

The telecast, headlined by two ShoBox veterans, is the first of back-to-back ShoBox: The New Generation telecasts on Fridays in September.  The following week, September 28, will mark the sixth telecast in 2018 of the popular developmental series that has produced 77 world champions including the likes of Errol Spence Jr. and Deontay Wilder.

 

 

 

The event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment, is likely to see knockout stoppages, with six prospects boasting a combined record of 68-2-1 and 47 KOs.

 

 

 

“I’m thrilled to promote what will be an exciting edition of ShoBox: The New Generation, on Friday, September 21, at FireLake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “This tripleheader features WBC Silver champion Fernandez, one of the hottest prospects in boxing, facing Foster, a tough Texan trained by the renowned Bobby Benton. The co-feature will be explosive while it lasts between Gonzalez, a New England knockout artist newly signed to DiBella Entertainment, and Ramos, an all-action pressure fighter from Spain promoted by Sergio Martinez. One of Brooklyn’s finest prospects, Ferrer will open the telecast against fellow unbeaten Ortiz, a stablemate of world champion Tevin Farmer from Philadelphia. I’m grateful to ShoBox Executive Producer Gordon Hall and SHOWTIME for continuing to provide a platform to showcase these top prospects.”

 

 

 

The powerful Fernandez (16-0, 14 KOs), a prospect from Bilbao, Spain co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and MaravillaBox Promotions, will be making his third ShoBox appearance when he faces Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in the 10-round main event contested at 130 pounds.

 

 

 

In a battle of two featherweights packing punching power, Worcester, Massachusetts’ Irvin Gonzalez Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) will take on Carlos Ramos (9-0, 6 KOs) in a scheduled eight-rounder. Rounding out the tripleheader, Wesley Ferrer (12-0-1, 7 KOs) of Brooklyn, N.Y., collides with undefeated lightweight prospect Steven Ortiz (8-0, 3 KOs) in the eight-round telecast opener.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event are priced at $60 for ringside, $40 for floor seats and $30 for general admission. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 24 and can be purchased online at www.firelakearena.com.

 

 

 

JON FERNANDEZ vs. O’SHAQUIE FOSTER – 10-Round Super Featherweight Bout

Fernandez, the protégé of former unified middleweight world champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez, scored two sensational knockouts on ShoBox in 2017, stopping Ernesto Garza in the third round and knocking out Juan Reyes with a highlight-reel right hook. VIDEO: https://youtu.be/IC2HRJqxa-Q

 

 

 

Making a name for himself as one of the best prospects in the sport, “Jonfer” has knocked out 14 consecutive opponents. The 5’11” Spaniard, who holds an 88 percent knockout ratio, is traveling to the U.S. for the fourth time with an eye on a statement victory.

 

 

 

“O’Shaquie Foster is a very good fighter and although he was the underdog he put on a great performance by beating Frankie Alba in his last fight,” Fernandez said.  “This is a big fight for both of us. I’m grateful to Lou DiBella for this opportunity to again show why I’m one of the best prospects in boxing.”

 

 

 

Fernandez, ranked WBC No. 10 at 130 pounds, won the vacant WBC Youth World Super Featherweight Title in 2016 and the vacant WBC Silver Super Featherweight Title in 2017. The former amateur standout, who landed on the ESPN Top Prospects of 2017 list, is currently trained by Tinín Rodríguez in Madrid.

 

 

 

O’Shaquie Foster, of Orange, Texas, is making his fourth appearance on ShoBox, last appearing on the series in July 2016. Since falling to Rolando Chinea in a close split-decision in that ShoBox appearance, Foster has bounced back with three consecutive victories, including a majority-decision victory over veteran Frank De Alba last time out in April.

 

 

 

“This is a great opportunity for me,” said Foster. “I know how good Fernandez is and how well thought of he is, but once we get in the ring, I’ll show the world that I’m a future world champion. I’ve been in training and will be ready for victory on September 21.”

 

 

 

A highly decorated amateur standout who compiled a record of 162-18, the 24-year-old Foster advanced to the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials where he lost to once-beaten professional prospect, Joseph “Jo-Jo” Diaz. Before that, Foster was a 2010 PAL National Champion, a five-time Ringside National Champion and two-time National Junior Golden Gloves Champion.

 

 

 

IRVIN GONZALEZ JR. vs. CARLOS RAMOS – Eight-Round Featherweight Bout

A 22-year-old from Worcester, Mass., Gonzalez turned pro in 2016 after a standout amateur career where he compiled a 90-15 record. He was a 2015 New England Golden Gloves champion and qualified for the 2016 Olympic trials.

 

 

 

Gonzalez, who will be making his ShoBox debut, has knocked out all but one of his professional opponents. He scored an impressive unanimous decision victory over Raul Lopez and a body shot knockout of previously undefeated Marlon Olea in back-to-back bouts in 2017.

 

 

 

“This is an opportunity to show the world what I’ve been working my whole life for,” Gonzalez said.  “With hard work anything is possible and I will show on September 21 that I have what it takes to become a world champion.  This is just the next step for me.  I’m entering and leaving the ring with an undefeated record.”

 

 

 

Undefeated featherweight prospect Carlos Ramos, born in Ecuador but fighting out of Madrid, Spain, has compiled a perfect record of 9-0 with six knockouts. The 22-year-old southpaw will be making his U.S. debut against a serious step-up in competition in the undefeated Gonzalez.

 

 

 

Ramos, also under the tutelage of Sergio Martinez, fought on the undercard of Jon Fernandez’s WBC Silver title bout in September 2017, outpointing Lesther Cantillano. Relatively unknown stateside, the young Spanish prospect will be looking to make a splash in his U.S. debut.

 

 

 

 

“I’m excited to fight in America for the first time and face Irvin Gonzalez,” said Ramos. “I know he’s a big puncher and has a lot of knockouts but all the great sparring I’ve had has built my confidence for a fight like this. I’m sharper than ever and ready to hand him his first loss.”

 

 

 

WESLEY FERRER vs. STEVEN ORTIZ – Eight-Round LIGHTWEIGHT Bout

Ferrer, a Brooklyn, N.Y. native, will be making his ShoBox television debut in his first fight of 2018. The skilled lightweight has started his professional career unbeaten through his first 13 fights, and will be facing his second consecutive undefeated opponent. In December 2017, Ferrer, who is trained by his father Mateo De La Cruz, fought to a hotly contested draw with Will Madera in Times Square.

 

 

 

“This is exactly the fight I need against another undefeated prospect so that I can show how good I am,” said Ferrer. “This is my first fight of 2018, my first on ShoBox and hopefully the first of many big wins.”

 

 

 

An accomplished amateur boxer in New York City, Ferrer was a two-time New York Golden

Gloves champion, 2012 New York Amateur Boxing champion and New York City Metro Tournament champion, as well as a participant at the 2013 National Golden Gloves.

 

 

 

Steven Ortiz, signed to Evander Holyfield’s The Real Deal Boxing, has made a name for himself in Philadelphia, winning five straight bouts in his hometown. Last time out, Ortiz registered an impressive second round knockout of Joshua Davis, sending his opponent to the canvas three times. Compiling a record of 45-5 as an amateur, Ortiz is a five-time Pennsylvania Golden Gloves Champion and National Silver Gloves Winner.

 

 

 

“I am excited to show my talents on ShoBox and promise to bring an exciting fight against Wesley Ferrer,” Ortiz said.  “The world is going to see the new face of the lightweight division on Sept. 21.  I can’t wait to show everyone who Steven Ortiz is.”

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sportsfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

 

 

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing to appeal Hamazaryan – Mattice

PHILADELPHIA, Penn. / ORANGE, Calif. (July 23, 2018) – Artie Pelullo, co-promoter of lightweight Zhora Hamazaryan will be appealing the outcome of last Friday’s Zhora Hamazaryan – Thomas Mattice fight with the Iowa commission.

 

 

 

Pelullo spoke to Iowa Commissioner Joe Walsh right after the fight on Friday, which took place at the WinnaVegas Casino.

 

 

 

The bout was seen by a nationally televised audience as the co-feature of a ShoBox: The New Generation card on SHOWTIME.

 

 

 

In the fight, Hamazaryan scored an explosive 2nd round knockdown; rocked Mattice several more times, and dominated the action.  Hamazaryan badly hurt Mattice in round seven.  Most people who saw the fight, thought that Hamazayan won 6 rounds to 2, plus the 2nd round knockdown.

 

 

 

Hall of Fame SHOWTIME announcer Steve Farhood called the decision the one of the worst in the history of the series, while his fellow Hall of Fame broadcaster Barry Tompkins went even farther by calling it the worst decision in 40 years.

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/ShowtimeBoxing/status/1020524211121655809

 

 

 

Hamazaryan co-promoter, Artie Pelullo said,  “I spoke to commissioner Joe Walsh right after the fight.  I informed him that we were going to appeal the decision, and he understood our position, and he said that we are within our rights to appeal.”

 

 

 

Hamazaryan is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

 

 

 

Below are just a sample of the articles and social media reaction from this misjustice.

 

 

 

 

https://www.boxingscene.com/mattice-wins-suspicious-split-nod-over-hamazaryan-results–130151

 

 

 

 

 

https://www.boxingscene.com/promoter-file-protest-over-suspect-shobox-result-friday–130216

 

 

 

https://www.ringtv.com/539952-jaron-ennis-impresses-zhora-hamazaryan-gets-robbed-on-shobox/

 

 

 

https://fightnews.com/mattice-hamazaryan-aftermath/25775

 

 

 

http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article.php?aid=35486

 

 

 

https://roundbyroundboxing.com/jaron-ennis-knocks-out-armando-alvarez/

 

 

 

https://www.fightful.com/boxing/shobox-next-generation-results-720-controversial-judging-overshadows-event

 

 

 

https://fightnews.com/ennis-destroys-alvarez-in-three/25776

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/steveucnlive/status/1020689666670878721

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/steveucnlive/status/1020690665292742658

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/CommishRandyG/status/1020661697932152833  (Gordon was the former New York State Boxing Commissioner)

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/loudibella/status/1020519733991485441

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/TheLatinSnake_/status/1020512531398373376

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/rosieperezbklyn/status/1020809743026343937

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/GoldenCalebT/status/1020512381774987264

 

 

 

https://twitter.com/stevelillis/status/1020522005261692928

 

 

 

 

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

JARON ENNIS KNOCKS OUT PREVIOUSLY UNBEATEN ARMANDO ALVAREZ IN IMPRESSIVE TELEVISION DEBUT IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

 

 

Thomas Mattice Stays Unbeaten With Controversial Split Decision Win Over Zhora Hamazaryan and Montana Love and Kenneth Sims Jr. Battle to Draw In Co-Featured Bouts

 

Catch The Replay Monday, July 23 At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

Click HERE To Download Fight-Night Photos; Credit: Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

SLOAN, Iowa (July 20, 2018) – Jaron Ennis continued his knock out streak in impressive fashion in his ShoBox: The New Generation debut on Friday night as the highly-touted prospect from Philadelphia scored a third-round TKO against previously unbeaten Armando Alvarez in an exciting night of fights from WinnaVegas Casino.

 

 

 

The 21-year-old Ennis (21-0, 19 KOs), a former National Golden Gloves Champion, dominated the Key West fighter Alvarez (13-1, 7 KOs) from the start, knocking him down four times in the third round before the fight was waved off with one second remaining in the round. The win was Ennis’s 11th consecutive knockout in a step-up fight for the welterweight prospect, who appeared composed in the ring from the outset.

 

 

 

“I feel so great after this fight,” Ennis said. “I came out and did what we planned on, which was to just get out there and break him down. I wasn’t nervous and I had fun in the ring, I’ve been here before and I’m aware of everything. I’ve been in the ring my entire life and this is always what I’ve been doing.”

 

 

 

Ennis came out aggressive against a game Alvarez and started his attack by going directly to the body. He landed 46 percent of his power shots and led 35-8 in body connects during the short fight, which was originally scheduled for 10 rounds.

 

 

 

Ennis, who has never been past the sixth round, didn’t have plans on making this a long night, as he connected on a left cross to the jaw to put Alvarez on the canvas for the first time after 30 seconds had elapsed in the third round. A delayed-reaction left to the pit of the stomach sent Alvarez down for the second time and a three-punch combination capped by a hook was good for knockdown No. 3.

 

 

 

Referee Adam Pollack waved the fight off with Alvarez on his knees with just one second remaining in the third round following a right uppercut to the chin that ended the fight.

 

 

 

“Alvarez was just another opponent,” said Ennis, who out-landed Alvarez 23-3 in power punches in the final round. “He’s a great fighter but it feels like I’ve been here before. I’ve been fighting forever so it was nothing new. I’ve been doing this since I was a kid.”

 

 

 

Ennis’s two older brothers have both fought previously on ShoBox but came up with losses. “This was my coming out party and it really feels great to be the third Ennis to fight on ShoBox,” Ennis continued.

 

 

 

The previously undefeated Alvarez became the second fighter of the night to lose his undefeated record and the 176th overall in the history of the ShoBox series, which this week celebrated 17 years since its inception in July of 2001.

 

 

 

“He was faster than I expected and I didn’t execute my game plan,” Alvarez said. “I was supposed to pressure and I didn’t. He hit me with a surprising shot. He had enough power that I had to respect him. He was just the better man tonight.”

 

 

 

In middle fight of the tripleheader, undefeated Thomas Mattice overcame a knockdown in the second round to escape with a controversial eight-round split decision victory over Armenian Zhora Hamazaryan. Two judges scored the fight 76-75 in favor of Mattice with the third judge scoring it 77-74 in favor of Hamazaryan.

 

 

 

ShoBox commentator Steve Farhood had Hamazaryan (9-1, 6 KOs) winning by a score of 78-73. “That was the worst decision I’ve seen in the history of ShoBox,” Farhood said.

 

 

 

Mattice (13-0, 10 KOs) said he thought he did enough to win the fight, even though he was floored by a devastating right hook from Hamazaryan at 2:30 in the second round.

 

 

 

“Tonight wasn’t my best performance,” Mattice said. “I felt like I Iost the few early rounds. [Hamazaryan] landed some clean shots and he’s a crazy competitor; he wasn’t giving me anything. I think the decision was fair. I out-jabbed him and it may have looked like he was hitting me more but he wasn’t really touching me. The crowd was going crazy over him tapping my gloves. I outpointed him overall.”

 

 

 

Hamazaryan’s pressure enabled him to work his way inside and render Mattice’s normally powerful jab mostly ineffective, as he landed just 19 percent of his jabs. Besides scoring the fight’s only knockdown in round two,Hamazaryan controlled the seventh round and applied more pressure than Mattice in the final three rounds.

 

 

 

“I am extremely upset,” said Hamazaryan, who was fighting for the second time in the U.S. “I deserve a lot more being here in the United States. I worked many years for this opportunity, and for the judges to take it from me is just terrible. I know I won. I’m always a champion. I have already talked to my team and we are going to protest this fight to the right outcome and we will give him a rematch.

 

 

 

He added: “I knocked him down, hurt him several more times and dominated the fight. And how could they just take this from me.”

 

 

 

In the telecast opener, young super lightweight prospects Montana Love (11-0-1, 5 KOs) of Cleveland and Kenneth Sims Jr. (12-1-1, 4 KOs) of Chicago fought to an eight-round split draw. The judges scored the fight 77-75 for Love, 77-75 for Sims and 76-76.

 

 

 

The action-packed fight was fought in flurries as both fighters came out swinging. Sims was the busier and more accurate fighter, throwing a total of 638 punches and connecting on 211 (33 percent) while Love threw 529 punches and connected on 159 (30 percent).

 

 

 

“I worked well in the beginning even though I was a little rusty,” said Sims, 24, who had not fought in more than a year because of right elbow surgery. “I slacked off in the middle rounds, and picked it up in the last three. I thought I won the fight, but I can’t complain. I haven’t fought in a year and I feel like I am a stronger and a better fighter than I was then.”

 

 

 

In his second appearance on the series, the 23-year-old Love came alive in the middle rounds, highlighted by a blistering right hook midway through the fifth round that knocked out Sims’s mouthpiece.

 

 

 

“Today wasn’t my best day and I just wasn’t able to get in to a groove,” said Love, who fought against Sims when the two were teenagers in the amateurs. “I definitely didn’t fight my best. I felt good in the third and fourth rounds.

 

 

 

 

“We definitely want a rematch,” Love continued. “Today was an off day but we hundred percent want a rematch and want to fight again, wherever and whenever.”

 

 

 

 

Friday’s tripleheader will replay on Monday, July 23 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.

 

 

 

Barry Tompkins called the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

 

 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,