Category Archives: Showtime Boxing

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FOUR-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION ADRIEN BRONER MIAMI MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Broner Battles Welterweight Champion Manny Pacquiao Saturday, January 19 on SHOWTIME PPV® from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

Click HERE for Photos from Robby Illanes/SHOWTIME

MIAMI (December 18, 2018) – Four-division world champion and must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner hosted a media workout at Miami Beach’s famed 5th Street Gym on Tuesday as he prepares to face Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion, for his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, January 19 from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

In undercard action on the SHOWTIME PPV, two-division world champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title and former world champion Rau’shee Warren will take on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship in a rematch of their 2012 Olympic matchup that was edged by Oubaali.  In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast, unbeaten Jhack Tepora will take on former world champion Hugo Ruiz in a 12-round featherweight clash.

Tickets for the event,which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at$100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGMResorts International box office.

Cincinnati’s Broner, one of boxing’s most popular and colorful personalities, is training under the tutelage of Kevin Cunningham in nearby West Palm Beach, Fla.

Here is what Broner and Cunningham had to say Tuesday:

ADRIEN BRONER

“This fight is real important. This is a hell of a fight not only for me but for the sport. This is a fight that needed to happen for the sport and we are going to put on a hell of a show.

“I always knew that one day I would be having fights like this. Honestly I thought he [Pacquiao] would be done with boxing by now but I always knew I would have a fight of this magnitude on this platform, pay-per-view and all and now I’m here.

“I knew what to expect. I knew he [Kevin] was going to be real strict and I just came prepared.Ready to put it all in and put it all on the line.”

On what he does in his down time:

“I try to rest as much as possible. I’m training so much and training real hard. This will be my second workout of the day and then after this I have another workout at 8:30 p.m. so that will be the third workout for the day so you know all my off time I try to eat properly, stay hydrated and stay focused.”

On how it feels to train in a gym that hosted greats like Muhammad Ali:

“It’s lovely. I never knew this gym existed and this is my first time ever being here or ever hearing about this gym being legendary. Muhammad Ali paved the way for guys like me and Sugar Ray Leonard and everyone else so, it’s legendary.

“I always tell other fighters and other people it takes more to be a star than just boxing. I just have everything it takes to be a mega star.”

On Pacquiao’s last fight against Lucas Matthysse:

“I didn’t see it but I heard he looked good. I don’t know what to expect. I’m just training for the best Pacquiao. And I’m going to go out there and do what I have to do to get the victory.”

How do you feel training in South Florida?

“I’m not focused on the clubbing and stuff and all that stuff will be here after the fight. I’m 110 percent focused on this fight.”

What he will do after the Pacquiao Fight?

“Boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. My main focus is getting past Manny Pacquiao first and then we can talk about other things.”

On whether or not Pacquiao has a weakness:

“It’s not a mystery. He has seven losses. It’s not a mystery that he can lose but anyone can lose on any given day. It’s whoever prepares the best and I’m preparing myself to do what I need to do. I don’t care about stopping him or whether it’s a unanimous decision, as long as I’m victorious.”

On whether or not this is the biggest fight of his career:

“This is definitely my biggest fight, biggest magnitude, biggest platform I’ve ever been on but you never know. I could probably go in there and make this look like the easiest fight of my career you just never know.”

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM

“I think he’shaving even a better camp than the last. He’s added a new strength and conditioning coach and everything is working out perfect and camp is going extremely well and smooth. AB’s looking fast and explosive. I have no complaints.

“Adrien’s got everything; he’s a real throwback fighter. He’s got speed, he’s got power, he’s got quickness, he’s got footwork. He can punch and he can bang and he can box.He’s got skills and he can be slick if he wants to be. So he’s the total package.

“We have an idea of the way the fight is going to go. We’ve studied tons of Pacquiao footage and he pretty much fights the same every fight. Manny’s a rhythm fighter so it’s all about getting in his rhythm. He pretty much does his thing. But outside of that I’ve never really seen him make too many adjustments. He’s pretty much the same guy.”

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SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO PRESENT DILLIAN WHYTE VS. DERECK CHISORA HEAVYWEIGHT REMATCH THIS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL To Air Live At 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT On SHOWTIME And The Network’s Streaming Service

NEW YORK – December 18, 2018 – SHOWTIME Sports will present the highly anticipated rematch between top-rated heavyweight contenders Dillian Whyte and Dereck Chisora this Saturday, December 22 live on SHOWTIME at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT. As with all SHOWTIME programming, the event will air live on air and via the networks’ streaming service.

Whyte (24-1, 17 KOs) and Chisora (29-8, 21 KOs) will go toe-to-toe once again in a rematch of one of 2016’s best fights, live from London’s The O2 on SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL.The all-British affair between the bitter rivals has been brewing since Whyte narrowly edged Chisora in a back-and-forth slugfest that necessitated a rematch. 

“SHOWTIME continues to lead the industry by delivering more of the most compelling boxing events from around the world to our premium cable subscribers and online streaming customers,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, SHOWTIME Sports. “This network has televised all of the most important heavyweight fights during the division’s renaissance and we are proud to join Matchroom Sports in delivering Whyte-Chisora II to our audience. Their first fight was action-packed from bell to bell. Now, with the stakes as high as they have ever been for both men,this bout promises to be even better. I hope that the boxing pundits have not yet cast their vote for Fight, Knockout and Round of the Year. Saturday’s matchup may challenge some of this year’s best.”

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL coverage will be provided by Sky Sports Box Office with host Brian Custer and Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood calling the action. 

The stakes are high in the rematch, as both Whyte and Chisora have been working toward world title opportunities against IBF, WBA and WBO Champion Anthony Joshua and WBC Champion Deontay Wilder. Whyte holds the No. 1 ranking in the WBC and WBO, as well as the WBA’s No. 4 position. Chisora is ranked No. 5 by both the WBA and IBF, as well as No. 9 by the WBC.  Their first matchup was widely regarded as the best heavyweight matchup of 2016, and round five of their “sensational fight” earned Round of the Year honors from ESPN.”

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Two-Division Champion Badou Jack Battles Undefeated Top Contender Marcus Browne for WBA Interim 175-Pound Title On Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner SHOWTIME PPV®

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Presented by Premier Boxing Champions Saturday, January 19

From the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

Plus! Former World Champion Rau’shee Warren Meets Unbeaten Nordine Oubaali for Vacant WBC Bantamweight Title &

Unbeaten Featherweight Jhack Tepora Takes on

Former World Champion Hugo Ruiz

LAS VEGAS (December 17, 2018) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view undercard will also see former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship in a rematch of their 2012 Olympic match up that was edged by Oubaali. In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast, unbeaten JhackTepora will take on former world champion Hugo Ruiz in a 12-round featherweight clash.

In the main event, Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion, will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

“Not only will the fans witness a tremendous main event, they will get to enjoy three action-packed match-ups that will add another level to the pay-per-view portion of the card,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Both Jhack Tepora and Hugo Ruiz are looking to make a name for themselves in the stacked featherweight division, while Rau’shee Warren and Nordine Oubaali are in the prime of their careers and battling for the WBC title. Mayweather Promotions’ Badou Jack has made an exemplary statement for his career inside and outside of the ring and is focused on further strengthening his resume, while Marcus Browne is looking to showcase his talent on boxing’s biggest stage.”

Jack (22-1-3, 13 KOs) has fought twice at light heavyweight since relinquishing his super middleweight world title to campaign at 175 pounds. The 35-year-old, who was born in Stockholm, Sweden, represented his father’s Gambia in the 2008 Olympics and now lives in Las Vegas. Jack won the super middleweight world title with a majority decision against Anthony Dirrell in 2015 and successfully defended the title three times before he relinquished the belt following a hard-fought majority draw against James DeGale in one 2017’s best fights. In his first bout at 175 pounds, Jack stopped Nathan Cleverly to pick up the WBA light heavyweight title before fighting to a majority draw against Adonis Stevenson in his last fight on May 19.

“I’m looking forward to getting back onto another big stage to perform for my fans across the globe and prove I am one of the best fighters in the world,” said Jack. “I plan to show off my skills with a dominating performance on January 19. I always want to fight the best, and he’s the best that’s available right now. I’m always 100 percent ready and I’m going into this fight stronger, faster and with more experience than ever before.”

The 28-year-old Browne (22-0, 16 KOs) will be taking a step up to face an elite opponent when he battles Jack. A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic boxing team, Browne moved up the contender ladder in the 175-pound division with brute force and power, scoring three straight knockout victories against Thomas Williams, Jr., Sean Monaghan and Francy Ntetu. Browne, who was born and raised in Staten Island, N.Y., scored a unanimous decision victory over Lenin Castillo in his last fight on August 4.

“This is really an honor and a privilege to have an opportunity to showcase my talents on a big time pay-per-view card featuring Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner,” Browne said. “Badou Jack is a championship-caliber fighter and one of the toughest guys you can fight in the light heavyweight division. I’m ready for the step up in competition and focused on being a household name in the sport sooner rather than later.”

Warren (16-2, 4 KOs) is looking to return to the world championship ranks with a victory over Oubaali. The 31-year-old became the first three-time Olympic boxer from the U.S. when he qualified for consecutive Olympic teams in 2004, 2008 and 2012. His Olympic run came to an end against Oubaali when he lost a narrow 19-18 decision in the first round of the 2012 London Games. A southpaw from Cincinnati, Ohio, Warren won the WBA Bantamweight World Championship with a majority decision over Juan Carlos Payano in 2016 and lost the title the next year to Zhanat Zhakiyanov by split-decision.

“This fight means everything for me and it’s about to be the biggest moment of my career,” Warren said. “Not only am I fighting for the WBC belt, but it’s on pay-per-view. When I first won the title it was like winning the gold medal at the Olympics. After I lost the title, it made me much hungrier and I want to get it back even more. I fought this guy in the Olympics, so I’m fighting for revenge. This isn’t the Olympics. This is 12 rounds and I don’t think he’s fought anybody like me. I have no choice but to put it all on the line on January 19.”

The 32-year-old Oubaali (14-0, 11 KOs), an unbeaten southpaw from Lens, Pas-de-Calais, France, has knocked out his last five opponents. His most recent KO of Luis Melendez on April 17 moved Oubaali up the ranks to position him for a world title shot. Oubaali, who is the sixth of 18 children born in France to parents who are from Morocco, twice represented France at the Olympics, qualifying in 2008 and 2012 when he defeated Warren.

“Many people are waiting for this fight because it’s the second time we meet,” said Oubaali.”I beat Rau’shee Warren at the 2012 London Games in a great battle. In the meantime, Rau’shee captured a world championship and lost it. Right now, I’m the WBC No. 1 ranked bantamweight fighter in the world. It will be a great fight in Las Vegas on January 19 and I intend to beat Rau’shee again to become the new WBC world champion.”

The 25-year-old Tepora (22-0, 17 KOs) has steadily risen up the ranks since turning pro in 2012 and most recently captured the WBA interim featherweight crown with a ninth-round stoppage of Edivaldo Ortega in July. Representing Cebu City, Philippines, Tepora enters his U.S. debut on January 19 with stoppage wins in 11 of his last 12 contests.

“It has always been a dream to fight in the United States,” said Tepora. “I never dreamed that my first fight in the U.S. would be on a card with Senator Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner. I look forward to a tremendous fight on January 19 and defending my title versus former world champion Hugo Ruiz. As you all know the best rivalry in boxing is Filipino vs. Mexican. It’s going to be a great fight.”

Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Ruiz (38-4, 33 KOs) will make his featherweight debut on January 19 after picking up two victories in 2018. The 30-year-old won a super bantamweight world title with a first round stoppage of Julio Ceja in 2016, avenging his previous loss to Ceja in one of 2015’s most exciting fights. He now seeks to position himself for a world title at 126 pounds with a victory against Tepora.

“I expect it to be a good fight because Tepora is undefeated and a good Filipino champion,” said Ruiz. “But I’m ready. I don’t think he can handle my power. I’m going to knock him out. I want to do my best to win the title. I’ve been watching videos of him and I’ve been training hard. I’m really focused on how to beat him. I’m still young, but I’ve got the experience to handle him in this fight.”

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SHOWTIME® TO AIR EPIC WILDER vs. FURY HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE BOUT THIS SATURDAY AT 9 PM ET/PT

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ALL ACCESS: WILDER vs. FURY EPILOGUE Premieres on SHOWTIME Immediately Following The Delayed Telecast of the Dramatic Main Event

Photo Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

The thrilling Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury heavyweight blockbuster, a sure-fire Fight of the Year candidate, will air on SHOWTIME this Saturday, December 8 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The WBC Heavyweight World Championship bout between the 6-foot-7 unbeaten American champion Wilder and 6-foot-9 challenger Fury originally aired live on SHOWTIME PPV® on Saturday, December 1 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

 

 

 

On Saturday, both Wilder and Fury made strong cases for 2018 Fighter of the Year honors.  Wilder faced the two toughest opponents of his career this year including a spectacular knockout win over Cuban slugger Luis Ortiz in a Fight of the Year candidate in March. Fury, the lineal heavyweight champion, returned from a two-and-a-half-year layoff to score two wins in a span of 10 weeks before facing Wilder. On Saturday, he miraculously withstood a devastating, final-round knockdown that appeared to knock him out cold. Fury rose dramatically and continued to fight until the final bell to cap an effort that will go down as one of the greatest comeback stories in all of sports.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME presentation of the Wilder vs. Fury, a bout that has been hailed as “…the greatest night for boxing in the U.S. in recent memory,” by Yahoo! Sports, will be immediately followed by the premiere of ALL ACCESS: WILDER vs. FURY EPILOGUE. The networks’ Emmy Award winning Epilogue reveals the drama of fight night from a unique perspective and introduces viewers to the rarely seen aftermath of world championship prizefighting. ALL ACCESS: WILDER vs. FURY EPILOGUE goes behind the scenes, into the locker rooms, corners and inner circles as Fury aims to complete a storybook comeback and Wilder looks to continue his reign as the “baddest man on the planet.”

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DEONTAY WILDER AND TYSON FURY FIGHT TO SPLIT-DECISION DRAW IN EPIC BATTLE ON​ ​SHOWTIME PPV® FROM STAPLES CENTER IN LOS ANGELES

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Jarrett Hurd Defends WBA, IBF 154-Pound Titles With Fourth-Round KO Over James Welborn; Luis Ortiz Registers 10-Round TKO of Travis Kauffman; Joe Joyce Remains Undefeated With First-Round KO Against Joe Hanks
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 1, 2018) – Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury fought to a split-decision draw on SHOWTIME PPV® on Saturday night from STAPLES Center​ ​in​ ​arguably ​one of the best heavyweight fights in years​.​

 

 

 

After controlling the WBC World Championship fight early, Fury (27-0-1, 19 KOs) miraculously overcame two knockdowns by Wilder (40-0-1, 39 KOs) – including one in round 12 – in the improbable draw. The judges scored the bout 115-111 for Wilder, 114-112 for Fury and 113-113.

 

 

 

“I think with the two knockdowns I definitely won the fight,” said Wilder, who has recorded a knockdown in each of his 41 pro fights and was defending his WBC belt for the eighth time since 2015. “We poured our hearts out tonight. We’re both warriors, but with those two drops I think I won the fight.”

 

​

 

Fury saw it differently, stating that he gave it everything he had.

 

 

 

“We’re on away soil, I got knocked down twice, but I still believe I won that fight,” said England’s Fury, whose amazing comeback continues following a two and a half-year absence from the sport from drug and alcohol addiction and mental health issues.​ “I hope I did you all proud after nearly three years out of the ring. I was never going to be knocked down tonight. I showed good heart to get up. I came here tonight and I fought my heart out.​”​

 

 

It was an electrifying night with an attendance announced at 17,698 fans, which included Hollywood stars and fight fans like former Lakers greats Shaquille O’Neal, Jerry West, former NFL stars Michael Strahan and Michael Irvin, and ​boxing ​legends Evander Holyfield and Floyd Mayweather.

 

 

 

Fury, who out-landed Wilder 84-71 overall, was caught by a short right hand by Wilder just behind the left ear to drop Fury for the third time in his career in the ninth round. Then in the 12th, a Wilder right hand and left hook combination sent the 6-foot-9 Fury down again, hitting his head on the canvas. Again, he managed to ​stand​ up and referee Jack Reiss let him continue to fight.

 

 

 

“Boxing is always the theater of the unexpected, and that’s what we had tonight,” SHOWTIME expert analyst Al Bernstein said.

 

 

 

Bernstein said seeing Fury get up and continue to fight after the brutal knockdown was “one of the most astonishing things I’ve ever seen in the boxing ring.”

 

 

 

SHOWTIME boxing historian and commentator Steve Farhood had Fury controlling the early rounds and Fury winning rounds 3-8, and ultimately scored the fight, 115-111.

 

 

 

Because of a rematch clause, both fighters were asked if they would like to do it again. “I would love for it to be my next fight,” Wilder said. “Why not? Let’s give the fans what they want to see. It was a great fight and let’s do it again. It doesn’t matter to me where we do it.”

 

 

 

“​One hundred​ percent we’ll do the rematch,” said Fury, fighting in the first heavyweight title pay-per-view bout in America since 2002. “We are two great champions. Me and this man are the two best heavyweights on the planet.”

 

 

 

Wilder said he came out slow and rushed his punches. “I didn’t sit still. I was too hesitant. I started overthrowing the right hand and I just couldn’t adjust.”

 

 

 

Fury, fighting for the third time this year with 26-year-old trainer Ben Davison in his corner, also had former boxing great Ricky Hatton and seven-time Trainer of the Year Freddie Roach in his corner.

 

 

 

In the lead-up fight to Wilder-Fury, “Swift” Jarrett Hurd (23-0, 16 KOs) defended his 154-pound IBF and WBA world title belts with a fourth-round knockout against United Kingdom’s James Welborn (24-7, 7 KOs), who was fighting for the first time on American soil.

 

 

Welborn was the aggressor in the first minute of the fourth round, sending Hurd to the ropes with punch after punch to the body and head. Suddenly realizing he might be in trouble, Hurd of Accokeek, Md., countered back from sudden adversity in dramatic fashion and sent Welborn back-tracking before a devastating body punch sent him to one knee. He was counted out at 1:55 by referee Lou Moret, who was officiating the final fight of his 30-plus year career.

 

 

 

After the fight, undefeated super welterweight Jermell Charlo entered the ring to challenge for Hurd’s coveted belts. “We definitely want Charlo,” Hurd told SHOWTIME Sports’ Jim Gray, saying the matchup would likely occur after one more fight. “I’m calling the shots. I’m No. ​1​ right now. When I say answer the phone, answer the phone. I got the date.”

 

 

 

Charlo shot back. “This is easy money. I like those belts – they look real good on you. He said he wants another fight. I’m ready now.”

 

 

 

Hurd, who unified the WBA and IBF belts by beating WBA champion Erislandy Lara in April in Las Vegas, was returning with a surgically repair left shoulder. He threw 118 jabs, more than half of the 220 punches he threw in the fight.

 

 

 

“I’m just coming off surgery so I wanted to see how I worked off the jab,” Hurd said. “I felt good I was working behind the jab I got caught on the ropes and got caught with some shots and said ‘that’s enough. He got enough TV time.’ I heard the crowd and I didn’t want to get brave. So I turned it up and got the knockdown.​”​

 

 

 

Former Wilder foe and heavyweight southpaw Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz (30-1, 26 KOs) returned to STAPLES​ Center​ for a second consecutive victory with a resounding 10th-round TKO against Travis “My Time” Kauffman (32-3, 23 KOs) of Reading, Pa.

 

 

 

The 39-year-old Ortiz of Camaguey, Cuba, registered left-cross knockdowns in the sixth, eighth and 10th rounds before the final blow coming later in the 10th round against a gritty Kauffman. It was the 26th career stoppage for Ortiz, who lost to Wilder in a Fight of the Year candidate back in March.

 

 

 

The fight was officially called at 1:58 of the 10th round. “I’m a warrior,” Ortiz said. “Nothing contains me. We didn’t have to knock him out but we wanted to show everything we have in our repertoire, and we showed it tonight.”

 

 

 

Ortiz, who was warned twice for low blows, clipped Kauffman for a second time by a lethal left hand of Ortiz at 2:29 in the eighth round. But just like the first time he was send to canvas in the sixth round, Kauffman was able to get up and continue fighting.

 

 

 

The technically sound performance by Ortiz included 376 jab attempts to Kauffman’s 99 and out-landing him 66-7. That led to a 135-37 lead in total connects and a 69-30 margin in power connects against Kauffman, who SHOWTIME commentator Paulie Malignaggi called, “a stubborn guy who wouldn’t go away.”

 

 

 

“Of course I’ll fight the winner of this fight [Wilder-Fury],” Ortiz said. “I want that second fight with Wilder. I want to fight anybody.”

 

 

 

In the ​pay-per-view​ telecast opener, Joe “The Juggernaut” Joyce (7-0, 7 KOs) recorded a massive first-round knockout against Joe “The Future” Hanks (23-3, 15 KOs). A rising heavyweight, Joyce, from London, England, ended the fight officially after just 2:25 as he used a right jab to set up a near-perfect left hook sending Hanks to the canvas and down for the count.

 

 

 

Trained by noted trainer Abel Sanchez, Joyce told Gray he’s ready for anyone. “I want to get in some bigger fights,” said the former Olympic silver medal winner who recorded his fourth first-round KO. “I’ve been doing well so there is plenty more to come. All the support from back home in England, thanks for coming. I hope I put on something good to watch.”

 

 

 

It was the second win in the United States for Joyce, who also picked up the vacant WBA Continental heavyweight title. “I’m getting people out quickly,” he said. “I’ve got a lot of experience, I’m just going to improve on my strength and my speed. I’ve heard comments that I’m slow but I seem to land the shots and get the job done.”

 

 

 

It was the third time during his career that Hanks, from Newark, N.J., has been knocked down by a left hook.

 

 

 

Earlier in the night on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Adonis Stevenson’s five-and-a-half year reign as the WBC Light Heavyweight Champion of the World ended as Oleksandr Gvozdyk dethroned boxing’s longest reigning champion with a devastating 11th round knockout from Videotron Center in Quebec City. VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2BMNZIx. Saturday’s one-fight telecast from Quebec City will replay on Monday, December 3 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.  The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION streamed live on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms and is archived on the SHO Sports YouTube channel and Facebook page.

 

 

 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.staplescenter.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @BronzeBomber, @Tyson_Fury, @TGBPromotions, @STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.

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OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK DETHRONES ADONIS STEVENSON TO CAPTURE WBC LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®

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Watch The Replay On SHOWTIME Sports Social Platforms And Monday At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE To Download Photos; Credit Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

QUEBEC CITY (December 1, 2018) – Adonis Stevenson’s five-and-a-half-year reign as the WBC Light Heavyweight Champion is over. Oleksandr Gvozdyk dethroned boxing’s longest reigning champion with a devastating 11th round knockout Saturday in Quebec City in a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast that immediately preceded the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury SHOWTIME PPV.

 

 

 

Gvozdyk (16-0, 13 KOs) used a powerful multi-punch combination in the penultimate round to put the back-and-forth bout out of question. The former Olympic bronze medalist and amateur teammate of fellow Ukrainians Vasyl Lomachenko and Oleksandr Usyk was impressive throughout the entire fight. He executed trainer Teddy Atlas’ game plan to perfection and was the busier of the two fighters. Stevenson (29-2-1, 24 KOs), who was making his 10th title defense, was able to land his signature left hand on several occasions, most notably in the tenth round, but never did enough to truly trouble his opponent.

 

 

 

“This win means everything to me. I’ve trained my whole life for this and tonight all of the hard work was worth it,” said Gvozdyk, who was the mandatory challenger for Stevenson. “Having Teddy [Atlas] in my corner was a huge help. He knew exactly what to say to me. We trained so well for this fight and I knew I was going to get the knockout.

 

 

 

“Adonis was a great champion but it’s my time now. He got me with a good shot in the 10th round but I handled it and finished him. Right now, I just want to rest before I discuss my next step. I definitely want to stay at 175 pounds.”

 

 

 

Stevenson was transported to a local hospital as precautionary measure and was unavailable for comment following the fight.

 

 

 

Saturday’s one-fight telecast from Quebec City will replay on Monday, December 3 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.  The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION streamed live on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms and is archived on the SHO Sports YouTube channel and Facebook page.

 

 

 

Barry Tompkins called the action from ringside with former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analyst. 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,

 

 

 

 

 

 

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HEAVYWEIGHT LEGENDS ROUNDTABLE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Former Heavyweight Champions & Stars Discuss Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury Heavyweight Championship Showdown Taking Place This Saturday, December 1 Live on SHOWTIME PPV® from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
 

 

 

 LOS ANGELES (November 30, 2018) – One day before the most significant heavyweight event in the U.S. in over 15 years, heavyweight legends have descended on Los Angeles to discuss the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury showdown that will be live on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday night from STAPLES Center in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

A media roundtable featured heavyweight greats Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis, Riddick Bowe, Gerry Cooney, Earnie Shavers, Buster Douglas and Michael Spinks as they broke down Saturday’s battle of unbeaten giants.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Enterprises and Queensberry Promotions, in association with TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and are available via AXS.com. Wilder vs. Fury will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the pay-per-view telecast is $64.99 for standard definition.

 

 

 

The roundtable was hosted by SHOWTIME Sports award-winning reporter Jim Gray from the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Los Angeles. Here is what the heavyweight legends had to say Friday:

 

 

 

EVANDER HOLYFIELD

 

 

 

“I feel that Deontay Wilder will win because eventually he’ll land that right hand. He’s very patient. He’s a thinker, but he can also take chances. When people take chances, they win.

 

 

 

“Deontay might not have as much experience as we did in our day, but he’s got the power. That’s what the people want to see and I think they’re going to be happy when they see it.

 

 

 

“There was a point in time where every great heavyweight was from the United States. We had a very good amateur program. I was the last true heavyweight champion from the U.S. before Wilder and until I lost the decision against Lennox.

 

 

 

“To be the heavyweight champion of the world, and to say you’re the best, you have to fight any man.”

 

 

 

LENNOX LEWIS

 

 

 

“I think it’s going to be a great fight. Deontay Wilder has a terrific right hand and when it lands, not too many people can stand up to it. I also think that you can’t hurt what you can’t hit. Tyson Fury is not an easy person to hit. He has great ability and movement. I’m going with Deontay early or Fury late.

 

 

 

“We all know how it feels to lose the heavyweight championship. We know how hard it is to gain it back. Fury has lost it, and now he wants it back. I can see now that he’s sacrificing and saying to himself that he shouldn’t have lost it, and now he has to regain it.

 

 

 

“I think the view in the U.K. is that Tyson Fury is the man that stepped up. The gauntlet was thrown out there and he stood up for Britain. Deontay came to England to challenge Anthony Joshua, but it was Tyson Fury who answered the call.

 

 

 

“I would say that there are a couple of meccas in boxing that are places where everyone wants to fight. Las Vegas, New York and of course, Los Angeles.  My fight against Vitali Klitschko at STAPLES Center was a great fight. My plan that night was not to box to go the distance, I boxed to go a short distance and it did.”

 

 

 

RIDDICK BOWE

 

 

 

“I’m going with Deontay Wilder tomorrow night. He’s going to put on a great show for everyone and get another knockout.

 

 

 

“Tyson Fury is skilled and tall, but to me, he doesn’t do enough on offense. He moves but he doesn’t move his hands enough.”

 

 

 

GERRY COONEY

 

 

 

“I think it’s a great fight tomorrow night. We know that Fury is coming back motivated. If Wilder finds a home for that right, he’s going to take Fury out. I think he’s going to connect at some point during the fight.

 

 

 

“I think Tyson Fury is a great man for how far he’s come back in his life and for standing up to Deontay Wilder. Fury called him out, so maybe he knows something we don’t know.

 

 

 

“I’m so glad to be up here. Look at all these great heavyweights and great guys. It’s special and they’re all here to watch this fight tomorrow night.”

 

 

EARNIE SHAVERS

 

 

 

“Me and Deontay are both from Alabama. I’ll be inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame soon and Deontay will be there one day as well. Deontay is a great puncher and I’m pulling for him tomorrow night.

 

 

 

“I fought in a great era. If you fight guys on the same level, you’ll get good fights. These guys today could get in there in our day and put on a good show.”

 

 

 

BUSTER DOUGLAS

 

 

 

“I think this is going to be a good competitive fight. If I had to pick, I’d take Deontay Wilder by knockout in the eighth round.

 

 

 

“I feel like Tyson Fury has already won by battling back and getting into great shape and being in this position. I’m sure many people thought they’d never see him back here. That’s a victory in itself.

 

 

 

“My victory over Mike Tyson changed my life in a great way. I was now the heavyweight champion of the world. My dream had come true. Seeing my two youngest kids being born was the only thing that could top it.”

 

 

 

MICHAEL SPINKS

 

 

 

“May the best man win. I don’t know who’s in the best of shape but I think Fury being out of the ring makes me lean toward Deontay Wilder. If Fury is as big in person as they say he is, he’s got a great chance.

 

 

 

“If you’re the underdog, you just have to go on what you know and what you’ve worked on. You can’t pay attention to the doubters. You focus on what you’ve prepared yourself for and give it your all. I always saw myself winning. It’s the greatest feeling to come out of the ring victorious.”

 

 

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

ABOUT WILDER vs. FURY

Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury pits the WBC Heavyweight World Champion Wilder against the lineal heavyweight champion Fury on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, December 1 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The PPV undercard begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will featureunbeaten unified super welterweight world champion Jarrett Hurd returning to take onJason Welborn, Cuban heavyweight slugger Luis Ortiz facing-off against Travis Kauffman and rising undefeated heavyweight Joe Joyce battling Joe Hanks.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.comand www.staplescenter.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @BronzeBomber, @Tyson_Fury, @TGBPromotions, @STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions andwww.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.

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  WILDER VS. FURY PPV UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Unified 154-Pound Champion Jarrett Hurd, Cuban Heavyweight Slugger Luis Ortiz & Rising Heavyweight Joe Joyce Talk Respective Showdowns This Saturday, December 1 Live on SHOWTIME PPV® from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
LOS ANGELES (November 29, 2018) – Fighters competing on Saturday’s PPV undercard headlined by the heavyweight championship showdown between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury went face-to-face on Thursday at the final press conference before they enter the ring on SHOWTIME PPV® from STAPLES Center in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The PPV undercard begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features unified 154-pound world champion Jarrett Hurd defending against the U.K.’s Jason Welborn, Cuban heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz in a 10-round showdown against rugged veteranTravis Kauffman and rising heavyweight Joe Joyce taking on Joe Hanks in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Enterprises and Queensberry Promotions, in association with TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and are available via AXS.com. Wilder vs. Fury will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the pay-per-view telecast is $64.99 for standard definition.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites Los Angeles:
JARRETT HURD
“Everything that my team and I have spoken about has come to pass. I’m here as the co-main of a massive card and I’m just really appreciative of everyone who believed in me and helped push me to this moment.
“Saturday night I want to show my versatility. Everyone has seen that I’m electrifying. I bring the action. But I want to show that I am swift and I do have defense. I know how to use my height and range. I’m still going to bring the action on Saturday, so you have to make sure to tune-in.
“We don’t think of Welborn as a tune-up fight. Jason Welborn is a British champion for a reason. We just want to go out there and establish the game plan we worked on in camp.
“I want to show my defensive side and show that I can box and move. I want to show that I don’t have to just keep coming forward. I’m going to be able to do that and start to break him down and get him out of there.
“Everybody sees my demeanor, and they know that I carry that to the ring. My composure is my biggest attribute. No matter what anyone says, I’m always going to be me.
“I’m number one in the division and things are going to play out how I want them. We’ve had three tough camps training for southpaws. When I eventually fight (WBC champion) Jermell Charlo, I’m going to be ready because of all the work on my versatility and defense. I’ll be ready for Jermell Charlo.
“I want to be an active champion because I didn’t have a lot of amateur fights. I need to stay in the ring and get all the experience I can. I want to get these good fights in while I’m still young and healthy.
“I’m back from my surgery and we’re going to get back to the old Jarrett Hurd. I’m going to show everyone all that I can do. Everyone knows that there’s always going to be action. It’s going to be a wonderful fight on a wonderful card. Don’t blink during this one.”
JASON WELBORN
“This is a dream come true to be here today. Hurd has worked his way up to get here just like I have. Right now, he’s in my way. I hope everyone enjoys what I bring to the table on Saturday night.
“I have the belief that I’m born and bred for this game and I’m going to show it to the whole world on Saturday night. I always prove people wrong.
“The last two years I’ve become the best in Britain and beaten everyone they put in front of me. When people doubt me, I train even harder. I’m coming to win and I’ve got nothing to lose.
“I have to get what I deserve and I’ll do it on Saturday night. I’ve already been through the storm. He’s got what I want.
“I’ve got to enjoy the fight and get what I want. He can look past me all he wants, but once he feels what I bring to the table, we’ll see how he reacts. I’m ready for whatever he’s going to bring to the table.”
LUIS ORTIZ
“I want to thank everyone who has helped me get this opportunity. I like to do my talking in the ring, but I’m happy that Travis Kauffman stepped up. A lot of heavyweights haven’t done that and I’m glad we can make this fight happen.
“I’m coming to do my job. This is a heavyweight fight and we know that means one punch can change everything. It’s not going to end well for Travis on Saturday night.
“There are 10 rounds to get the job done, and three minutes per round. I’m going to get my job done. The job is to seek and destroy. So I hope that Travis is very prepared to give the fans a great show. Saturday night you’ll see ‘King Kong’ in the ring.
“I’ve pushed myself even harder than ever in training camp. We’re sticking with the same game plan of family first and I believe I will be rewarded. My five-year-old boy reminds me that I have a loss and that motivates me to train harder and harder.
“I expect Travis to have the great confidence he’s showing. It’s a great chance for him and I’m sure he’ll be motivated. I’m motivated for every fight, because it’s not just about my opponent. My goal is to provide for my family and Travis is in the way. I’ve never deterred from that mentality and it’s got me ready for Saturday night.”
TRAVIS KAUFFMAN
“I’m thankful to Luis Ortiz for taking this fight. Everybody is afraid to fight him, but I’m not afraid of anyone. We all know that Luis Ortiz can punch, but I don’t care about any of that. It’s my time. I come from a rough background and I won’t back down.
“This is my time. There’s nothing that’s going to stop me from taking this guy down. He’s so worried about Deontay Wilder, but he has to worry about me before he gets any rematch.
“You might not know who I am right now, but you will after Saturday night. I’m going to make sure people remember my name.
“Luis Ortiz is very skilled, but if you want to be the best you have to fight the best. No one actually wants to step up and take this fight, but I really believe this is my time. I bring some heat in the ring and I come to fight every time.”
JOE JOYCE
“I’m excited to be on this massive card. I’m going to give the whole world a treat as part of a great event. You have to tune-in and watch me start the show off right on Saturday night.
“Training in Big Bear has been a perfect environment for me. It’s in the mountains, it has the altitude and it’s secluded. I’ve seen what goes into their training camps and worked alongside the best in the world. They’ve helped me install the kind of style that will have me at my best.
“I have the Olympic pedigree, but now it’s about advancing the brute strength and really getting the perfect snap on my shots.
“Sparring against Tyson Fury was really top-level work. I know that it’s made me a better fighter. He’s looking fit and strong and it shows when you’re in the ring with him.
“This is a great opportunity. Abel Sanchez has done a tremendous job getting me ready for this position. I’m excited to show everyone my skills and everything I’ve learned.
“I’m glad that Joe Hanks decided to take this fight. I can’t wait to lace up the gloves and get the party started. I’m going to keep my knockout streak going and I guarantee it’s going to be exciting”
JOE HANKS
“It’s been a long time coming for this moment. I’m thankful to my team and I’m excited to be on this card with other great heavyweights. It’s a great time to be a heavyweight. I’m ready to put my name in the ring to have the chance to really do something special with a great performance Saturday.
“The work has been done. I did everything that I had to do. I’ve done more than I did preparing for my past fights. Being the underdog doesn’t mean much to me. I’m from Newark, New Jersey, and we’re all underdogs there.
“I’ve put the time in and I’ve had everyone supporting me and pushing me and I think it’s going to get me over the hump. I’m just really excited to get in there.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.
“When we talk about Jarrett Hurd, he’s a fighter who has seemingly come out of nowhere and has had an incredibly rapid rise to the top. He was not a decorated amateur. He has learned on the job. All he has done since beating Oscar Molina in 2016 is impress. He is recognized as one of the bright young stars in boxing. He has been off due to injury and certainly could have taken an easier fight than Jason Welborn, who is a British Commonwealth champion. We’re expecting an action fight there.
“Luis Ortiz is one of the top heavyweights in the world. He has one blemish on his otherwise perfect record, a loss to Deontay Wilder. Perhaps Ortiz was just seconds away from victory. We talk about a slim margin in fights, that was the slimmest of margins. I think he is going to be trying to make a statement on the undercard that he deserves a rematch against Deontay Wilder. Standing in his way will be Travis Kauffman. This is another all-action fight filled with big punchers.
“In our opening bout, we have one of the most talked-about rising young heavyweights in the sport – Joe Joyce, who is taking on a tough veteran in Joe Hanks. As we know, the heavyweight division has been the focus more in the last six to nine months than we’ve seen in the last couple decades. Joe Joyce is at the top of the list on the potential next wave of future stars. He is certainly not wasting any time taking on a fighter of Joe Hanks’ caliber.
“When you look at the card overall, you’ve got some of the biggest punchers in boxing. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see several knockouts on this card. Don’t miss the action.”
#          #          #
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ADONIS STEVENSON vs. OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Begins At 7:45 PM ET/4:45 PM PT Live On SHOWTIME® And SHOWTIME Sports® Social Media Platforms Preceding Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury SHOWTIME PPV® Event.

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

QUEBEC CITY (November 29, 2018) – Boxing’s longest reigning world champion, Adonis Stevenson, and undefeated, mandatory challenger Oleksandr Gvozdyk faced off Thursday at the final press conference ahead of Stevenson’s 10th defense of his WBC Light Heavyweight Title in a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast Saturday, December 1 from Videotron Center in Quebec City.

 

 

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION will air live on SHOWTIME and stream for free on the SHO Sports YouTube channel and the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page beginning at7:45 p.m. ET/4:45 p.m. PT, immediately preceding the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury SHOWTIME PPV. Wilder vs. Fury begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features unified 154-pound world champion Jarrett Hurd returning to take on Jason Welborn, Cuban heavyweight slugger Luis Ortiz facing-off against Travis Kauffman and rising heavyweight Joe Joyce battling Joe Hanks.

 

 

 

Here is what Stevenson, Gvozdyk and their respective trainers had to say Thursday at Chateau Bonne Entente in Quebec City:

 

 

 

ADONIS STEVENSON:

 

 

 

“Saturday is a big fight. I’m not underestimating Gvozdyk. I know he’s a good fighter and he’s hungry. He’s trained very hard to get my title. But everybody who comes to my home in Canada always wants my title, but it’s never happened and it’s not going to happen now.

 

 

 

“I’m looking for the knockout. That’s just my mentality and the way that I train. Sugar [Hill Steward] trains me to think that way but I can also go 12 rounds, it’s not a problem. I know that if he makes a mistake, I’m going to catch him. He only has to slip up once in 12 rounds. One mistake, one punch. That’s all it’s going to take. I’m ready. I know I can punch and it’s 12 rounds. I just need one punch. Just one. I’m going to catch him and the night will be over.

 

 

 

“I’ve been pushing myself in training and I’m going to put on another great performance come Saturday and will defend my title once again. In the words of my old trainer, Emanuel Steward, ‘knockouts sell’ and that’s what I’m going for in this fight. I know I’m facing a good boxer who’s coming in very determined. He’ll be ready, but it won’t be enough. Superman is in the building!”

 

 

 

OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK:

 

 

 

“I’m glad to finally be here. I’m very excited. I want to thank Top Rank and GYM Promotions for finally making this happen. I respect Adonis Stevenson as a fighter, he’s a great champion. But I am ready to accept this challenge and on Saturday night there will be a new champion.

 

 

 

“I have one of the greatest trainers in the history of boxing so I’m very confident. We have a good strategy. We had an excellent training camp and I’m ready. Adonis is a great fighter. He’s a dangerous southpaw and this is a real step-up for me but it’s my time.

 

 

 

“People always ask about Stevenson’s age but George Foreman and Bernard Hopkins performed at a high level when they were 50-years-old. It really just depends on how you maintain your body, your living conditions, how you eat and how you train.

 

 

 

“I’m not worried about what the bookmakers say. It doesn’t mean anything that they think I am the favorite. I try to stay focused on the things that I need to be focused on, not what the bookmakers think. The further this fight goes, the better my chances are. My height, my movement and my patience will win me this fight.”

 

 

 

SUGAR HILL STEWARD, STEVENSON’S TRAINER

 

 

 

“I’m happy to be here once again. This is like a second home for Adonis. This fight is just going to be regular Adonis. Adonis wants to get a knockout. I love knockouts. This is how we train for every fight. It’s no disrespect to any fighter, but that’s just the mentality that we have. Adonis and I don’t believe in leaving it in the hands of the judges and that’s been working so far. We will continue to do what we’ve been doing.”

 

 

 

“Adonis has been training his whole life for something like this. This is a big world championship fight against a former Olympian. Welcome to big time boxing, this is what it’s all about. Come December 1, Adonis Stevenson is going to get another knockout.”

 

 

 

TEDDY ATLAS, GVOZDYK’S TRAINER

 

 

 

“We knew that this would be a very difficult fight but what we didn’t know was how difficult it would be to get here. That part of the fight is over, thankfully. We spent eight weeks in California preparing for this bout. Preparing for a tremendous champion. I don’t have to speak about how long he’s been a champion, his reign, his experience, how talented and dangerous he is as a puncher. I believe he’s the best or second-best puncher in boxing today. It’s either him or [Deontay] Wilder, whatever you choose.

 

 

 

“Stevenson has all of the qualities a great fighter needs. He has a great heart, he’s gotten off the canvas and showed tremendous heart late in the Badou Jack fight. This is quite a task that’s in front of us. We understand that. The good news is that we know exactly what we’re facing and we’ve prepared the last eight weeks for that. We have not overlooked anything. I have no doubt that although we have a very steep challenge in front of us, that on Saturday night we will have a new Light Heavyweight Champion of the World.”

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Boxing’s Best Heavyweights Past and Present Give Their Thoughts and Predictions On Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury Blockbuster as Fight Week Begins in  Los Angeles

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Saturday, December 1 Live on SHOWTIME PPV® from 
STAPLES Center & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

LOS ANGELES (November 27, 2018) – As fight week in Los Angles kicks off, heavyweights of the past and present have spoken, and the majority believe Deontay Wilder’s pure punching power will be enough to defeat the highly-skilled Tyson Fury on Saturday, December 1 on SHOWTIME PPV®.

 

 

 

Some of the greatest heavyweight names in the history of boxing weighed-in on what will be the biggest heavyweight title fight in the U.S. since Mike Tyson took on Lennox Lewis in 2002. The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from STAPLES Center in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Enterprises and Queensberry Promotions, in association with TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and are available via AXS.com. Wilder vs. Fury will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the pay-per-view telecast is $64.99 for standard definition.

 

 

 

Here is what the current and former heavyweight greats had to say about the Wilder vs. Fury matchup:

 

 

 

MIKE TYSON:

 

 

“Although Wilder’s punch is strong, nothing can compare to the mental strength Fury has shown both in and out of the ring. It’ll be a close call, but I think Fury’s got a true fighting chance.”

 

 

 

EVANDER HOLYFIELD:

 

 

“It’s a great fight. Fury’s got a lot of skills, he’s awkward and he has long arms. He has good reflexes and is a strong counter-puncher. Deontay needs to be first and he can’t wait on Tyson. Tyson’s always been the bigger fighter. In fighting Deontay it’s the same case. If things get difficult, he’s (Fury) got more experience and a lot of tricks. I think with Deontay’s power, he might be able to end it early, but if Tyson can frustrate him and it goes the distance, then it could go his way.”

 

 

 

LENNOX LEWIS:

 

 

“If it goes the distance then it belongs to Tyson Fury. If it’s a short fight it will belong to Deontay Wilder. This is an epic and most-unpredictable showdown. I can’t wait for this fight.”

 

 

 

GEORGE FOREMAN:

 

 

“I am a big fan of Deontay Wilder and I was impressed with Tyson Fury and how he avoided the big shots against Wladimir Klitschko. I can see him going 12 rounds with Wilder because of his height and reach.

 

 

 

“The great thing about this fight is that we’re all talking about it. I think Wilder wins a close decision.”

 

 

 

RIDDICK BOWE:

 

 

“If Wilder comes out and means business then he should beat Fury with ease. My prediction is Wilder by knockout!”

 

 

 

GERRY COONEY:

 

 

“Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury is a very interesting fight. I love Tyson Fury. I think he’s a remarkable self-promoter, and he did a great job with Wladimir Klitschko, using his feints and throwing Klitschko off his game plan. Deontay is a different kind of fighter, though. Fury fights at 30 miles per hour. Deontay fights at 100 miles per hour. So, when Deontay catches Fury and gets ahold of him I think it’s going to be over. I admire Fury, but I think he’s barking up the wrong tree with this fight. I think the bottom line is that Deontay is a whole different type of beast. He comes in aggressive and finishes his opponents. I hate to pick, but somebody has to lose. I’m picking Deontay by knockout and I think it ends inside of four or five rounds.”

 

 

 

LUIS ORTIZ

 

 

“If Fury decides he wants to dip and dive and move, then he can extend the fight. But it’s all up to Wilder. If Fury decides he wants to come to the middle of the ring and fight, then it’s going to be over quick. Wilder is going to catch him. Prediction: Wilder by KO.”

 

 

 

CHRIS ARREOLA:

 

 

“I think Wilder fighting Ortiz and now Fury back-to-back gives the fans exciting fights. I like both Wilder and Fury, but for this fight I am leaning slightly toward Wilder to win.”

 

 

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

ABOUT WILDER vs. FURY

 

 

Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury pits the WBC Heavyweight World Champion Wilder against the lineal heavyweight champion Fury on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, December 1 from STAPLES CENTER in Los Angeles and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The PPV undercard begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will featureunbeaten unified super welterweight world champion Jarrett Hurdreturning to take onJason Welborn, Cuban heavyweight slugger Luis Ortizfacing-off against Travis Kauffmanand rising undefeated heavyweight Joe Joycebattling Joe Hanks.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.comand www.staplescenter.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @BronzeBomber, @Tyson_Fury, @TGBPromotions, @STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.