Category Archives: Showtime Boxing

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Mason Menard training hard for Haney showdown

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Beverly Hills, Calif. (April 25,2018) – Lightweight contender Mason Menard (33-2, 24 KOs) is training very hard for his upcoming battle with undefeated Devin Haney (18-0, 12 KOs)  that will headline a ShoBox: The New Generation card, live on SHOWTIME (10 PM ET / PT) on Friday, May 11th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

 

Menard has set up training camp in Dallas, Texas for this important battle, which is now for the USBA Lightweight title.

 

 

 

“Training Camp is Dallas is going great.  I’m feeling comfortable with my new team around me, and being around elite guys in the gym like Errol Spence, Jermell Charlo, Rob Brant and Cem Kilic has made me a better fighter,” said Menard.  “My only real loss was to world champion Ray Beltran. May 11th can’t come soon enough because I am ready to show the boxing world that Devin Haney is taking too big of a step up, and I am back.”

 

 

 

This will be the first bout with new Manager, Shane Shapiro of No Limit Mindset Management.

 

 

 

 

“I am excited for Mason’s return to the ring.  With a new management team around him, a repaired shoulder, an elite trainer and quality sparring partners, fight fans will see an improved Mason Menard on May 11th,” said Shapiro, CEO of No Limit Mindset.  “I truly believe that being in the gym with guys like Errol Spence and Jermell Charlo for entire camp will bring out the best in Mason.  Devin Haney is a great fighter, and has a lot of hype around him, but come fight night, he will realize that he took too big of a step up in opposition.”

 

 

 

 

Menard is promoted by Greg Cohen Promotions.

 

 

 

 

 

For more information on No Limit Mindset, LLC, contact:

 

 

 

 

Shane Shapiro

 

 

 

Phone: (310) 770 – 9077

Shane@NoLimitMNDST.com

www.nlmindset.com

 

 

 

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Gary Russell Jr. vs. Joseph Diaz Jr. Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Featherweight Title Showdown Headlines at MGM National Harbor in Maryland Saturday, May 19 Live on SHOWTIME

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

 

NATIONAL HARBOR (April 24, 2018) – WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. (28-1, 17 KOs) and unbeaten No. 1 contender Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (26-0, 14 KOs) hosted a press conference and faced off for the first time Tuesday before their championship showdown Saturday, May 19 live on SHOWTIME from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Golden Boy Promotions, are on sale now and are available by visitinghttp://mgmnationalharbor.com/.

 

The Russell vs. Diaz fight is part of a split-site SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast that will feature WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson defending his title against two-division world champion Badou Jack in a main event from Toronto presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

Russell Jr., a 2008 U.S. Olympian and 126-pound titleholder since 2015, will defend against his mandatory challenger in the 25-year-old Diaz, who represented the U.S. at the 2012 Olympic games and will be competing in his first title bout.

 

 

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday from TAP Sports Bar at MGM National Harbor:

 

 

 

GARY RUSSELL JR.

 

 

 

“It’s amazing to be fighting at home. It’s cool to know that the people I see around all the time will be able to get in the car and drive 15 minutes to come watch this massacre. I can’t wait.

 

 

 

“I appreciate JoJo for being honest and saying that he feels I’m the best featherweight in the world. That speaks volumes.

 

 

 

“We stay focused in the gym. The inactivity doesn’t mean anything. It’s no issue. I’ve had hand issues in the past but I’m able to preserve my body and stay sharp, stay focused. I’m a fighter that’s always in shape. I never take a day off. You can ask my wife. On anniversaries, we’re in the gym. On birthdays, we’re in the gym.

 

 

 

“Regardless of what the situation is, you want a sense of financial stability for yourself and your family. I’m at the point of my career where I have maybe six more fights in me. We want to maximize everything. We want to maximize our revenue and it’s been irritating because a lot of the champions don’t want to get in the ring with me. I appreciate JoJo for giving me the opportunity to sharpen my teeth a little bit more. At least he’ll have the opportunity to say he got in the ring with Mr. Gary Russell Jr.

 

 

 

“I’m one of the most dangerous fighters on the planet. Speed, power, ring IQ, we can get ugly if we need to. I don’t plan on going 12 rounds. I’m not going the distance with anybody for the remainder of my career. Mark my words.

 

 

 

“When you have guys that fight and move around a lot, it makes it difficult to get to them the way you want to. When you have a guy that is straightforward and will be in your face, it makes it much easier for me and they’re much more susceptible to get hit.

 

 

 

“A lot of fighters win with pure athleticism because they’re faster, stronger or in better shape. They’re not winning because they have the ability to make the necessary adjustments based on what goes on in the ring. I tell people all the time that boxing is intellect manifested on a physical form. In most cases, the more intelligent fighter wins.

 

 

 

“My father says that whenever you see a fight that is an all-out, knockdown war, it’s just two stupid fighters that didn’t have a plan B or the ability to make the adjustments to make the fight easier. If that’s JoJo’s game plan, it’s going to make this fight a lot easier for me. It’s not going 12 rounds.

 

 

 

“As far as a hit list of my next opponents goes, we are first going to take care of JoJo. I would love to get a unification bout with Leo Santa Cruz after that. If we don’t get that, I plan on moving up in weight and challenging whoever has the title in that division. You want to know who I really want, though? I want Mikey Garcia.

 

 

 

“My last fight will be against (Vasyl) Lomachenko. I want to conclude my career with breaking my foot off of him. That will be the conclusion of it. I’m willing to wait, though. Right now, we’re good.

 

 

 

“Of course I would entertain a fight with Gervonta Davis. We’re cool. He’s somebody that I actually watched grow up and develop as a fighter, but you have to stay in your lane. When I move up in weight, he’s got to get out of the way or he’s going to get ran over too.

 

 

 

“I didn’t want to come home to fight until I had a world title. That’s the reason I didn’t fight at home for so long. Now we have the title, and I wanted to fight at least one more time here.

 

 

 

“I want to maximize our revenue because I don’t plan on fighting for too much longer. I had my first fight at seven years old. I’m 29 now. That’s a long time competing and a lot of wear and tear on your body. I’m a guy that doesn’t cut corners, so it takes away from the time I could be spending with my family and friends. I’m ready to spend time with my family and children and live out the fruits of our labor. But in the meantime, everybody else is in my way. They’re trying to take food off my baby’s plate.”

 

 

 

JOSEPH DIAZ JR.

 

 

 

“I don’t think the fact that I’ve been more active will give me any advantage. I’m just doing what I’m supposed to be doing and getting the experience I need inside the ring before facing an elite fighter like Gary Russell Jr. My preparation has been good. I’ve fought tremendous opponents and I have all the experience to come out victorious May 19.

 

 

 

“It doesn’t affect me at all fighting in his hometown. I’m happy to fight in his backyard. He’s the champion and that’s what champions get to do. I know what he’s capable of doing. He says I don’t have the boxing IQ or the power and speed that he has, but he’s going to be in for a rude awakening come fight night. He’s going to see that I have all the tools.

 

 

 

“It’s a dream come true to be fighting on this stage. Ever since I roomed with Errol Spence at the Olympics, we always promised each other that once we became pro we were going to fight all the elite athletes and the best champions. Gary Russell Jr. is the best at 126 pounds. I’m not scared to fight him and that’s what Errol Spence did, too. He beat Kell Brook in his hometown.

 

 

 

“Gary Russell Jr. is by far the best featherweight in the world. Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Lee Selby, none of these guys want to fight Russell. They’re afraid of the speed and the counter shots. But I know what I’m capable of doing and I’ll showcase it May 19.

 

 

 

“A win would mean everything for me. It would be a dream come true realizing all of the hard work I’ve put in since I was 13 years old. It would mean that I’m the champion and I’d be the shot caller.

 

 

 

“I think his speed is an obstacle; he’s very fast. But that’s the thing about me, I’m good at adapting to any style that I fight. Come fight night I know that his speed is going to be fast, but it’s nothing that I won’t be able to take, or nothing that will shock me. I’m going to be able to adapt to that speed and make sure I’m able to land my shots when he’s opening up.

 

 

 

“I’m very confident; 100 percent confident I’ll beat him. I know that this is an opportunity that is presented to me and I’ll be victorious. I’ve always prayed to God that I could fight on SHOWTIME and for a WBC title. And now that I am it feels like it’s all settling in and it’s all coming true. I’m working hard every single day, and once I get my hand raised in victory I’m going to go from there.

 

 

 

“If he gets a little bit over confident like he did against [Oscar] Escandon, he’s going to be in for a rude awakening. He’s going to be shocked with not only my punching power, but also with my combinations and with my speed. I’m not like a Jhonny Gonzalez where I’m just throwing one shot, or slow combinations. I’m pretty fast with my punches and you won’t see my punches coming because I throw them very elusive and I punch from different angles. He’s going to be very shocked if he fights the way he fought Oscar Escandon.

 

 

 

“I don’t think it’s going to go the distance. Gary Russell is going to go out there and not back down and give the fight fans a good show, but I’m going to go out there and give a good show and not back down. So I think we’re both not going to back down and we’re going to brawl it out, and let the best man win.”

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MrGaryRussellJr, @JosephDiazJr, @TGBPromotions, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @MGMNatlHarbor and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxingand www.Facebook.com/MGMNationalHarbor. The event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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CLARESSA SHIELDS TO FIGHT FOR WORLD TITLE IN SECOND WEIGHT DIVISION AS SHE FACES HANNA GABRIELS FOR IBF & WBA WOMEN’S MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS FRIDAY, JUNE 22 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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World’s No. 1 Fighter At 168 Pounds Takes On No. 1 Fighter At 154 Pounds In Main Event Middleweight Bout

 

 

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Live At 10 p.m. ET/PT

From Masonic Temple In Detroit, Mich.; Tickets On Sale Now

 

 

 

NEW YORK (April 24, 2018) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and unified women’s super middleweight Champion Claressa Shields will attempt to become a two-division world champion on Friday, June 22 live on SHOWTIME when she faces unified women’s 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Middleweight World Championships at Masonic Temple in Detroit, Mich.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/PT and features the No. 1 fighter at 168 pounds facing the No. 1 fighter at 154 pounds as they both attempt to become champions for the first time in the middleweight division.

 

 

 

Shields (5-0, 2 KOs), who grew up in nearby Flint, was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic Gold Medals. The 23-year-old turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight. Shields now begins her first camp with renowned trainer John David Jackson as she attempts to become a two-division champion.

 

 

 

“I can’t wait to get into the ring on June 22,” said Shields. “I love the fight against Hanna Gabriels – champion versus champion, exactly the kind of fight that I want every time to take women’s boxing to new heights. I’ve said one of my goals is to win world championships in three weight divisions. I’m proud to be super middleweight champion, and on June 22 I will add the middleweight championship to my accomplishments. I’m excited to be working with John David Jackson for the next step in my career as I look to conquer another division.”

 

 

 

Two-division champion Gabriels (18-1-1, 11 KOs) is the reigning WBA and WBO World Champion. The native of Costa Rica won her first world title at welterweight in 2009 and has since fought in an astounding 11 consecutive world title fights. The 35-year-old won her first belt in the 154-pound division in 2010 and became unified champion in 2016. In her last bout, Gabriels avenged the only loss on her record, a 2013 defeat to then-undefeated title challenger Oxandia Castillo.  She looks to become a three-division world champion on June 22. 

 

 

 

“I’m really excited and grateful to have the opportunity to showcase my skills against Claressa Shields on SHOWTIME,” said Gabriels.  “This will be a great battle of two world champions, a great night for my country, and a great fight for women’s boxing.  I only know one thing – the woman in front of me will lose.  I take nothing away from Claressa’s accomplishments, but on June 22 she is facing a three-time world champion and I will take the ‘0’ in her record and prove I am the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.”

 

 

 

“This main event is yet another example of SHOWTIME Boxing’s commitment to delivering the best fighters in the best matchups,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION. “We have two unified champions, the top fighters in their respective divisions, facing off for a championship in a new weight class.  Will Claressa Shields be as dominant as a middleweight?  Can Hanna Gabriels shock the world and hand Claressa her first loss since she was an amateur in 2012?  We’ll find out on June 22.” 

 

 

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT) will also feature extensive highlights of unified women’s middleweight champion Christina Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) as she defends her WBC & WBO titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs). 

 

 

 

If both Shields and Hammer are victorious in their 160-pound bouts on June 22, they will meet in a fall blockbuster on SHOWTIME to determine the undisputed women’s middleweight world champion. 

 

 

 

“I’m glad Christina Hammer will be fighting that night as well. After I beat champion Hanna Gabriels, I want to unify all the middleweight belts against Hammer,” Shields said. “I’ve never been so motivated. This will be a great year for women’s boxing. It’s our time!” 

 

 

 

Hammer, of Dortmund, Germany, has dominated the women’s middleweight division for nearly eight years, having won the WBO title at 160 pounds in 2010.  The 27-year-old became unified champion in 2016 with a unanimous decision over WBC titlist Kali Reis and has made two defenses as unified champion. Hammer won the WBO title in 2010 in her eighth professional fight and has dominated the middleweight division since, losing just a handful of rounds in her reign as champion at 160 pounds. Hammer, who also models professionally and was recently featured at Fashion Week in New York City, has campaigned mostly in Germany since turning professional in 2009.  

 

 

 

“I have been training intensively for months for my first fight in the U.S.,” Hammer said. “I can’t wait to show my skills, desire and hunger to America and prove that I am THE middleweight champion of the world. While I have great respect for Tori Nelson, I promise I will defeat her in spectacular fashion on June 22 and send a message to Claressa Shields. It’s my time to shine!”

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100.  VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35. 

 

 

 

“Women’s boxing will shine brightly on June 22 in Detroit as the best fight the best,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita.  “Claressa Shields, in just her sixth fight as a professional, is once again showing her willingness to take on all challenges when she competes for a second world title against one of the best female fighters in the sport. Hanna Gabriels is a long-reigning world champion and a national hero in Costa Rica. This fight and this card, which features four women’s world champions battling each other, is the definition of world-class boxing. June 22 will be their time to shine, live on SHOWTIME in Detroit.”

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Hard-Hitting Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson Defends His Title Against Two-Division Champion Badou Jack Saturday, May 19 Live on SHOWTIME® at Air Canada Centre in Toronto in an Event Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

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SHOWTIME Presents Two Main Events In a Split-Site Telecast on May 19 As Featherweight Champion Gary Russell, Jr. Defends Title Against Top Contender Joseph Diaz from

MGM National Harbor in Maryland

 

 

 

Tickets on Sale for Toronto Event Friday, April 27

 

 

 

TORONTO (April 24, 2018) – Undefeated knockout artist Adonis Stevenson, the longest reigning light heavyweight world champion, will defend his title against two-division champion Badou Jack on Saturday, May 19 live on SHOWTIME from the Air Canada Centre in Toronto in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

The showdown between Stevenson and Jack is one of the most intriguing matches in the light heavyweight division as Jack, a former 168-pound and 175-pound champion, has relinquished his title for the chance to challenge one of the hardest hitters in the sport. Both men are looking to make their claim as the class of the division.

 

 

 

Stevenson vs. Jack is part of a split-site SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/PT with featherweight champion Gary Russell, Jr. defending his title against mandatory title challenger Joseph Diaz from the MGM National Harbor in Maryland on Saturday, May 19.

 

 

 

Tickets for the Toronto show, which is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale Friday, April 27 and will be available at www.ticketmaster.ca.

 

 

 

“It is the second time that we will come to Toronto to promote a WBC world championship fight with Adonis Stevenson,” said Yvon Michel, President of Groupe Yvon Michel. “If you found the first event to be spectacular, be sure not to miss the second one as it will be a real firework! Badou Jack is a two-division world champion and an Olympian. He is dangerous and by far the biggest challenge for Adonis since he won the title against Chad Dawson in 2013. We are confident that ‘Superman’ has what it takes to defend his title successfully for the ninth time.

 

 

 

“I would also like to give thanks to our co-promoter Lee Baxter. This event would not have been possible without his collaboration. In addition, I am grateful for Lee and Wayne Zronik from MLSE, who are providing great support for this event and has opened the doors of the Air Canada Centre to us.”

 

 

 

“Mayweather Promotions is looking forward to partnering with Groupe Yvon Michel to pull off this highly anticipated matchup,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Adonis Stevenson has been a reigning champion in this division since 2013. Badou Jack has risen to every challenge he’s faced in his career. Now, he has an opportunity to become a three-time world champion and that raises the stakes for him. I predict two confident, hard-punching and highly skilled fighters will enter the ring at Air Canada Centre on May 19, both determined to walk away a champion.”

 

 

 

“We are looking forward to hosting this spectacular event at Air Canada Centre,” said Wayne Zronik, Senior Vice President, Music and Live Events at Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. “It is the first title fight that the venue will host. We’ve worked with this group before to bring world class boxing to the city and are excited for the return of championship boxing to Toronto, and to Air Canada Centre in particular.”

 

 

 

Stevenson (29-1, 24 KOs) owns one of the most powerful left hands in boxing and goes by the ring moniker “Superman”. The 40-year-old Stevenson has made eight successful defenses of his title since winning it with a knockout victory over Chad Dawson in 2013. The lineal 175-pound champion most recently defended his title with a second-round stoppage of Andrzej Fonfara last June and delivered a third round TKO over Tommy Karpency in his most recent defense in Toronto in 2015.

 

 

 

“I’m definitely excited and hungry to get into the ring and perform,” said Stevenson. “I’ve trained very hard for this fight against Badou Jack. I’m looking forward to winning this fight by knockout. I’m from the Kronk Gym and we always look for the knockout. Jack is a good, technical boxer. He was a world champion and he has done very well. He’s tough and I won’t underestimate him. I’ll be prepared for anything he brings in the ring.

 

 

 

“I’m fighting him at home in Canada, so I’m looking to give the fans a good show. I’ve got power and I’ve got the best left hook in boxing. I’ve got 12 rounds and I just need to touch you once to end it. It’s not complicated. I don’t need three or four shots. I just need one shot and you’re not going to recover. I’m going to finish you.”

 

 

 

The 34-year-old Jack (22-1-2, 13 KOs) relinquished his 168-pound world championship following a majority draw against James DeGale in 2017 to move up to light heavyweight. He made a successful debut at 175 pounds by knocking out Nathan Cleverly for the light heavyweight championship last August. Jack then relinquished that title to seek out this challenge against the division’s heaviest hitter. Born in Stockholm, Sweden, a 2008 Olympian for his father’s native Gambia and now residing in Las Vegas, Jack is looking to become a three-time world champion on his opponent’s home turf on May 19.

 

 

 

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to fight for my third world title against one of the division’s best, Adonis Stevenson,” said Jack. “I’ve been asking for this fight for a long time and was willing to fight him anywhere, including his backyard. I know he’s good and very dangerous and that’s the reason I want to fight him. I’m all about the best fighting the best and come May 19th, I’m bringing the WBC belt back to Las Vegas. My newborn son, Malik was born just before training camp so now I have two children to fight for, which gives me all the motivation I need to get this win.”

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,mayweatherpromotions.com and www.groupeyvonmichel.ca follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @AdonisSuperman, @BadouJack, @MayweatherPromo, or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, ,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionsandwww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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ADRIEN BRONER & JESSIE VARGAS FIGHT TO HIGHLY ENTERTAINING MAJORITY DRAW SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

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Jermall Charlo Sends Statement To Middleweight Division With KO Of Hugo Centeno Jr.; VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2vxBnDM

 

 

 

Gervonta Davis Reclaims 130-Pound Title With TKO Of Jesus Cuellar; VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2vusWsW

 

 

 

Watch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 P.M. ET/PT On 

SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

(Photos to be added shortly)

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Janer Bigio/Mayweather Promotions

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

 

 

BROOKLYN (April 22, 2018) – Four-division world champion Adrien Broner and two-division world champion Jessie Vargas fought to a highly entertaining 12-round majority draw Saturday night on SHOWTIME in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING in front of 13,964 fans at Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

The back-and-forth battle was a tale of activity vs. accuracy. Vargas was by far the more active fighter, throwing 839 total punches, 300 more than his opponent. Yet the flashy Broner was supremely accurate, connecting on 44 percent of his power shots and 38 percent of his total punches, compared to just 27 and 24, respectively, for Vargas.

 

 

 

Broner (33-3-1, 24 KOs) came on strong in the second half of the fight, picking up rounds eight through 10 on all three of the judges’ scorecards. The 12th round was crucial in determining the draw, which was scored 115-113 Broner and 114-114 twice. The judges agreed on eight of the 12 rounds but couldn’t agree on the final round, which was ruled differently by the two judges who scored the fight a draw.

 

 

“I want to thank Jessie Vargas. He’s a two-time world champion for a reason,” said Broner, who was working for the first time with Kevin Cunningham as his head trainer. “He came to fight but at the end of the day, you all know I beat him. Point blank, period.

 

 

 

“I was connecting with rights. I got warmed up in the early portion of the fight. My trainer was a big help tonight. I want to thank Coach Cunningham as well as my original coach, Mike Stafford, for realizing I needed to do something different.

 

 

 

“I would love to fight Vargas again, but let’s go back to my town to do it.”

 

 

 

Vargas (28-2-1, 10 KOs) worked off the jab and was incredibly effective with his body shots in just his second fight with trainer and former world champion Mike “The Body Snatcher” McCallum.

 

 

 

“I thought I won the fight,” Vargas said. “At the end of the day I can’t argue because I was fighting on the inside of the ring so I don’t know what you saw from the outside. I was landing clean blows. It was a good fight but at the end of the day I can’t dispute the decision.

 

 

 

“It must have been a close fight for the judges to have scored it the way they did. I felt that I won the fight and I was up two rounds. I’m relying on the judges to make the right decision.”

 

 

 

Former 154-pound champion Jermall Charlo sent a statement to the middleweight division in the co-main event, knocking out previously once-beaten contender Hugo Centeno Jr. to capture the interim WBC 160-pound title. VIDEO:https://s.sho.com/2vxBnDM

 

 

 

Charlo is now the mandatory for Gennady “GGG” Golovkin and didn’t shy away from calling out the WBC, WBA and IBF Middleweight World Champion.

 

 

 

“It’s been an amazing journey to get here,” said Charlo, the twin brother of WBC 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo. “I’m a two-time world champion. Bring on ‘GGG.’ I want that fight. I’m 27-0 with 21 knockouts. Everybody sees it. What more can I say?”

 

 

 

Charlo (27-0, 21 KOs) proved that his power translates to middleweight as he knocked out his second opponent since relinquishing his title and moving to 160 pounds. The Houston native has now won via knockout in five of his six bouts since initially becoming champion in 2015. A series of shots opened up a huge left hook in the opening minute of the second round, flooring Centeno (26-2, 14 KOs), who failed to beat the 10-count and was counted out at :55.

 

 

 

“Everybody has always avoided me and from now on, this is how it’s going to be,” said Charlo. “You see what you get.”

 

 

 

Following the fight, Centeno was aware of the mistakes that led to the loss.

 

 

 

“I thought I started off pretty well. I wanted to go out on my shield but it wasn’t my day,” Centeno said. “He caught me and got the knockout. I was trying to work my jab. I thought I got him with a couple good shots but I lingered too long in the pocket and I didn’t get out in time.”

 

 

 

In the opening bout of the telecast, Gervonta Davis became a two-time world champion in empathic fashion with a third round TKO of former champion Jesus Cuellar to capture the vacant WBA 130-pound World Championship. VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2vusWsW

 

 

 

The undefeated Davis (20-0, 19 KOs), who lost the IBF 130-pound title on the scales last August, scored three knockdowns in less than three rounds to win his second title in the super featherweight division. The 23-year-old connected on 49 percent of his power shots in his first bout with new trainer Kevin Cunningham.

 

 

 

“On the undercard of the Mayweather-McGregor fight, I just wasn’t focused,” Davis said. “It was the second time fighting on Mayweather’s card so it got to my head and it showed. After the fight, I went home and talked to my team and we decided it was time to leave Baltimore. I’m focused and it showed because I’m a champ again.

 

 

 

“There’s always bumps in the road when you want to become successful. It’s all about how you bounce back and tonight I showed that I’m a true champion.”

 

 

 

Davis utilized a combination of body shots, uppercuts and effective counterpunching to break down Cuellar, a former titlist at 126-pounds. Baltimore’s Davis floored Cuellar with a body blow in the second round and didn’t relent from there. The southpaw pressed forward in the third, stalking Cuellar against the ropes and sending him down for the second time with a series of combinations. Cuellar (28-3, 21 KOs) got up, but was in serious trouble and referee Benjy Esteves stepped in to halt the contest at 2:45 with the Argentine falling to the canvas for the third time.

 

 

 

“The game plan was to box a little bit and open him up with some shots,” Davis said. “When it was time, I went forward and caught him with enough shots to get him out.

 

 

 

“I want the IBF belt back and I’m ready to unify it with whoever wins the [Tevin] Farmer vs. [Billy] Dib fight.”

 

 

 

On Saturday’s telecast, it was announced that Errol Spence Jr. will make the second defense of his IBF Welterweight World Championship against undefeated mandatory challenger Carlos Ocampo June 16 on SHOWTIME in a homecoming fight in Dallas.

 

 

 

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader will replay on Mondayat 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, ,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionsandwww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. PBC was sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by Mayweather Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

CARL FRAMPTON WINS INTERIM WBO FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE WITH CONVINCING WIN OVER NONITO DONAIRE LIVE ON SHOWTIME SPORTS SOCIAL PLATFORMS

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NEW YORK (April 21, 2018) – Carl Frampton earned the interim WBO Featherweight Title with a clear unanimous decision victory over former four-division world champion Nonito Donaire from SSE Arena in Belfast in a bout that was streamed live to U.S. audiences via SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page. All three judges scored the fight 117-111 in favor of Frampton.

 

 

 

Frampton (25-1, 14 KOs), of Belfast, was the sharper fighter from the opening bell and imposed his will on the veteran Donaire (38-5, 24 KOs) in front of his hometown fans. Frampton controlled the distance well and was strong on the inside, landing a fierce right hand that caused swelling to Donaire’s left eye in the second round.  Donaire showed glimpses of why he was named the consensus 2012 Fighter of the Year, landing a vicious uppercut in the seventh and a big left hand in the latter stages of round number 11 that hurt Frampton. However, the hometown favorite was comfortable throughout the majority of the match, using his jab efficiently and implementing the gameplan of trainer Jamie Moore to perfection. The victory puts Frampton in position to challenge WBO Featherweight Champion Oscar Valdez, who is recovering from injury following his fourth title defense, a unanimous decision win over Scott Quigg on March 10.

 

 

 

“I think Jamie deserves a lot of credit because the gameplan was perfect,” said Frampton. “As you saw in the 11th round, Nonito Donaire is a dangerous opponent. I survived the round and stuck to the gameplan. At times, my boxing was beautiful.

 

 

 

 

 

“Donaire was a sharp puncher throughout. I was definitely hurt in the 11th round, people could see it. But champions survive and that’s what I did. The only thing on my mind is fighting at Windsor Park. I can’t wait to get there”

 

 

 

Frampton’s victory over Donaire was the first of four high-stakes featherweights’ fights on SHOWTIME® platforms featuring seven of the consensus top-10 ranked featherweights, including three world champions and four former multi-division champions. On May 19, WBC World Champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his belt against JoJo Diaz Jr. live on SHOWTIME and IBF World Champion Lee Selby will defend his 126-pound title against undefeated Josh Warrington live in the U.K. on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms. Finally, on June 9, Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares will meet live on SHOWTIME in a highly anticipated rematch for the WBA Featherweight World Title.

 

 

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

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. Battles Unbeaten Top Contender Joseph ‘JoJo’ Diaz Jr. from MGM National Harbor in Maryland

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Two Main Events to Air Live on SHOWTIME

in a Split-Site Doubleheader Saturday, May 19

 

 

 

Hard-Hitting 175-pound Champion Adonis Stevenson

Defends Title Against Two-Division Champion

Badou Jack From Canada &

Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

 

 

 

Tickets on Sale Now for MGM National Harbor Show

 

 

 

NATIONAL HARBOR (April 20, 2018) – Two exciting main events will be presented on the same night, Saturday, May 19 live on SHOWTIME as part of a split-site doubleheader telecast.

 

 

 

Featherweight world champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his WBC title against undefeated mandatory challenger Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. on Saturday, May 19 in a clash live on SHOWTIME from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

 

 

 

The other half of the split-site SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will feature WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson defending his title against two-division world champion Badou Jack in a main event from Canada presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

Tickets for the MGM National Harbor show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Golden Boy Promotions, are on sale now and are available by visitinghttp://mgmnationalharbor.com/.

 

 

 

Russell Jr. and Diaz Jr. have both had sensational professional and amateur careers, including representing the U.S. at two different Olympic Games – Russell in 2008 and Diaz in 2012. Russell is noted for having some of the fastest hands in boxing but will be tested by a young, hungry contender in his first world title fight.

 

 

 

“The featherweight division is one of the most talent laden in boxing and Gary Russell, Jr. is at the head of a class of terrific boxers at 126 pounds,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “Joseph Diaz Jr. is young, hungry and undefeated and he’s coming for the title and he’s going to have to beat Russell in front of his hometown crowd to take it. It has the makings of an instant classic. Boxing fans will be the real winners on May 19.”

 

 

 

“SHOWTIME continues to deliver the most meaningful and action-packed fights in boxing, week after week,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming for SHOWTIME. “On May 19, we have two events that demand top-billing, with world champions facing their toughest challengers in an international split-site doubleheader.  Gary Russell and JoJo Diaz will meet in the latest of what has become a de facto featherweight tournament this spring on SHOWTIME. Over the next two months, SHOWTIME will deliver four pivotal matchups featuring three world champions and seven of the consensus top-10 featherweights in the world. Adonis Stevenson vs. Badou Jack is by far the biggest fight at light heavyweight in 2018, fellow 175-pound champs facing off in what has the makings of a lasting rivalry.”

 

 

 

The 29-year-old Russell (28-1, 17 KOs), who was born in Washington, D.C. and now lives in Capitol Heights, Maryland, will be defending his title before a hometown crowd. This will be Russell’s second straight fight at MGM National Harbor following his knock-out win over Oscar Escondon in his first title defense there on May 20, and second defense overall. It was his third straight knockout victory in a world title fight since dropping a majority decision to Vasyl Lomachenko in his first world title shot in 2014.

 

 

 

Russell, who is trained by his father, Gary, Sr., is part of a boxing family. Two of his younger brothers, Gary Antonio and Gary Antuanne, are currently unbeaten professionals, are also trained by their father and will be fighting on their older brother’s undercard on May 19.

 

 

 

“I don’t see this being a long night,” said Russell Jr. “If he gets reckless, it might end early. I don’t plan on going the distance with anyone I step in the ring with. I know he’s in for a rude awakening. I don’t feel as though he has the punching power, the hand speed or the ring IQ to do anything to me. At the end of the day he’ll have the opportunity to say he got in the ring with Mr. Gary Russell, Jr.

 

 

 

“It will be an early birthday gift for my Dad. Last year I fought on his birthday, May 20. That’s pretty cool. I love fighting at the MGM. I love the convenience. I love that all my friends and fans, and the people who honk at me from their cars when I’m running can hop in their cars rather get on a plane to come and see me fight.”

 

 

 

Diaz Jr., who is also trained by his father, Joseph, Sr., was a two-time amateur national champion in the bantamweight division. He represented the U.S. at the 2012 Olympic games in London. Immediately after, Diaz Jr. signed with Golden Boy Promotions and began a stellar career that has earned him a spot at the pinnacle of the featherweight division.

 

 

 

“I’m happy to be fighting for my first world title against the best 126-pound world champion,” said Diaz Jr. “I’ll prove to everyone that I belong on that featherweight throne come May 19.”

 

 

 

“I will be the bigger man come fight night, and I will break him down physically and mentally. He just better give me the credit I deserve once I beat him, and not blame his inactivity for being a factor in his loss.”

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MrGaryRussellJr, @JosephDiazJr, @TGBPromotions, @MGMNatlHarbor and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing andwww.Facebook.com/MGMNationalHarbor. The event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Adrien Broner vs. Jessie Vargas Plus Jermall Charlo vs. Hugo Centeno Jr. & Gervonta Davis vs. Jesus Cuellar Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader This Saturday, April 21 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Janer Bigio/

Mayweather Promotions

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

 

 

BROOKLYN (April 19, 2018) – Fighters competing on Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader, headlined by four-division champion Adrien Broner battling two-division champion Jessie Vargas, went face-to-face Thursday at a press conference in Brooklyn before they enter the ring this Saturday, April 21 at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

 

Live coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features undefeated former world champion Jermall Charlo clashing with once-beaten Hugo Centeno, Jr. for the interim 160-pound world title and former champions Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Jesus Cuellar as they square off for the vacant WBA 130-pound Super World Championship.

 

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, start at $50 and can be purchased atticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

 

 

 

Also in attendance Thursday was popular local fighter and unbeaten contender Heather “The Heat” Hardy, who takes on Paola Torres in undercard action Saturday night.

 

 

 

 

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Barclays Center in Brooklyn:

 

 

 

 

ADRIEN BRONER

 

 

 

 

 

“I’m just ready to fight. I’m not worried about Jessie. This is a very important fight for my career. I know that Jessie trained hard to beat me. This is a win that could take either of us to the next level. I’m ready to fight right now and get after it.

 

 

 

 

“When he stepped up and fought Tim Bradley and Manny Pacquiao, he lost. I’m a four-time world champion so I don’t want to hear anything about my losses. Jessie Vargas is not as good as those guys I lost to.

 

 

 

 

“I hope I get credit when I beat Jessie Vargas. I hope I get the credit I deserve. People want me to lose and go away, but guess what? I worked harder than ever for this fight. I’m not losing to Jessie Vargas. I’m a four-time world champion and soon to be five-time world champion this year.

 

 

 

 

“I’m still one of the best fighters of this era. When I’m done with my career, I will be one of the best to ever lace up a pair of boxing gloves. I just can’t wait to give everyone something to remember on Saturday.

 

 

 

 

“Being with Kevin Cunningham in camp changed a lot. It took a while to get used to it. This is the first camp I’ve done since I was kid with a new coach. There were no distractions down at camp. It was all work, no play.

 

 

 

 

“I’m on a different level than him. I’m going to prove it on Saturday. I don’t worry about any of the negativity that surrounds my name. I’m just ready to go put on a show.

 

 

 

 

 

“I’m taking over this year. It all starts with Jessie Vargas on Saturday night. I’m going to be myself, and put on a great show.”

 

 

 

 

JESSIE VARGAS

 

 

 

 

“Everything in training camp has gone fantastically. I can’t wait for this fight. This isn’t a game. I’m here to win and I plan to do that. This is going to be action.

 

 

 

 

“I’ve seen the mistakes Broner has made in the past. I have to come out and worry about my performance though. I’m versatile and I’ll do what I have to do. We’re both former world champions but at the end of the day there will only be one winner, and It’s going to be me.

 

 

 

 

“I think I have an advantage being the taller and stronger fighter. I’m a full grown welterweight. I’m ready for victory.

 

 

 

 

“We both bring experience and we’re both talented guys. We are definitely going to give the fans entertainment on Saturday night. I’m in a great part of my career because I haven’t received that much punishment. I’m a two-division world champion for a reason.

 

 

 

 

 

“My weight has been on point this camp. My nutritionist has done a great job and I’m going to be perfect on the scale tomorrow. My whole team has been perfect and it’s going to lead to the best Jessie Vargas you’ve ever seen on Saturday.

 

 

 

 

 

“Saturday night is going to be a great show. It’s a great card and then main event will be all fireworks. Come out and enjoy a great night of boxing and see me get the win.”

 

 

 

 

JERMALL CHARLO

 

 

 

 

“I’m looking to make a statement on Saturday night. I’ve been training hard since my last fight. I promised my fans something they’ll remember from this fight. You’ll have to wait and see.

 

 

 

 

 

“Once you step in front of me, it’s a fight. I put my life on the line each time. I’m just looking forward to even bigger things that are in front of me. I’m giving the fans something special to take home from my performance.

 

 

 

 

“I feel really good right now. It was another one of those camps that I was able to start early and get in the gym early. I can do whatever you need to do in the ring. I’m ready to make this fight all fireworks.

 

 

 

 

 

“I do a lot of good things in camp to make myself feel stronger. It was a little tough with the delay, but nothing that I couldn’t work through. I’m on weight right now this far out. I have a great team that’s helped me get there.

 

 

 

 

 

“I’m focused on what I have going on. Hugo thinks I’m overlooking him but that’s not happening at all. I want to take him out and make a statement that I’m ready for the big names in the division.

 

 

 

 

 

“We’re going to turn Brooklyn up. I want to really make a statement. No matter how I’m feeling throughout the fight, we’re going to make it rock.”

 

 

 

 

 

HUGO CENTENO JR.

 

“I feel like I’m being overlooked. I haven’t been able to make myself a household name by being on these platforms. Come April 21, I’m going to make my name known.

 

 

 

 

“The rib injury was tough to take at first. We were very close to the end, but once I resumed training, I was already in phenomenal condition. It took me to another level and now I’m in the best condition of my life.

 

 

 

 

“I feel perfect right now heading into this fight. We had great sparring in camp and I’m ready to step into the ring.

 

 

 

 

 

“Even just being in this position shows people that I’ve earned my way here. No one has handed me anything. This is one of the hardest divisions in the world and I’m here for a reason. This fight means the world to me. It’s been 20 years of hard work coming together Saturday.

 

 

 

 

“I know Charlo is coming to fight, and I’m definitely coming to fight. No matter what the strategy or style is, I’m going to be ready for whatever comes my way.

 

 

 

 

“I expect him to come out strong. We know he’s looking for a knockout. But I think if he doesn’t have the opportunity, it will come down to who is the smarter fighter.”

 

 

 

 

 

GERVONTA DAVIS

 

 

 

 

 

“Saturday night you can expect an action packed fight. I know Cuellar is going to come to fight. I’m definitely coming to fight. I’m ready to pick up where I left off, as a champion again.

 

 

 

 

 

“I had a lot of distractions last camp that led to me missing weight. From that day forward I was focused on getting back to a world title shot. I let people down when I lost the title on the scale, but now I’m more focused.

 

 

 

 

 

“It was great being in camp in Florida instead of back home in Baltimore. This way it’s only boxing that I’m worried about each day. I’m eating right and really just 100 percent focused on boxing. It was a great move and it’ll show on Saturday.

 

 

 

 

 

“I have the skills and the charisma to be at the top of the sport. I just need the right opponents, but I’m not going to rush it. I have to make smart decisions in this sport to get where I want. I want to continue to put on great performances.

 

 

 

 

 

“I believe this fight is going to put me back on the map as one of the youngest rising stars in boxing. I believe I have the skills to do that.

 

 

 

 

 

“I’ve been training so hard with Adrien in camp. We’ve been pushing each other and I just want to be able to look back at this fight and be able to say this was one of my best performances. I want to show that I have the skills and ability to take over the sport of boxing.”

 

 

 

 

 

JESUS CUELLAR

 

 

 

 

 

 

“I understand that Davis is a great opponent, but inside the ring, it will just be the two of us, going toe-to-toe. I know that it’s going to be a great fight.

 

 

 

 

 

“This is going to be all action. Expect to see a war with me raising my hand at the end of the night. I’m going to do whatever it takes.

 

 

 

 

 

“The plan is to go out there and win that belt. We’ve had great training and sparring to get us in this position. My coaches worked really hard to get me ready.

 

 

 

 

 

“This fight is very important for me. I want to become a two-division world champion and I have the chance I’ve waited for on Saturday night.

 

 

 

 

 

“I think I made the right decision to take some time away from boxing. Now I’m back stronger than ever. I feel great and everyone will see that on Saturday night.

 

 

 

 

 

“We have a game plan and we’re going to execute that. I’m going to be aggressive like I always am, but also show some new things that I’ve worked on.

 

 

 

 

“I’m ready to go 12 rounds if necessary, but If I have the opportunity early for a knockout, I’m going to take it. I’m here to give it my all and win this fight, that’s it.”

 

 

 

 

 

HEATHER HARDY

 

 

 

 

 

“There’s really nothing like fighting at home. As exciting as it was to be in the cage, this is like being in my backyard.

 

 

 

 

 

“This is always a dream to box at Barclays Center and there’s nothing like being here in front of my people. I hope that my opponent trained hard because I’m ready to brawl.

 

 

 

 

 

“I’m really excited to be back working on my boxing skills. I can’t wait to give my fans a great show. They know I always give it my all and leave it in the ring. I’m going to give my fans their money’s worth.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

 

 

 

 

 

 

“On Saturday night we have the biggest and baddest boxing card in the entire sport. It will be a great event right here in front of the passionate Brooklyn boxing fans.

 

 

 

 

 

“The main event has the four-division champion Broner taking on the two-division champion Vargas, in a fight that means a great deal to both fighters.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Plus Jermall Charlo facing Hugo Centeno in a great middleweight fight to look to establish themselves as contenders in the star-studded middleweight class.

 

 

 

 

 

“The opener of our telecast will have a rising superstar in boxing in Gervonta Davis, battling former world champion Jesus Cuellar in an entertaining world title fight. This is what boxing is all about. It’s big time boxing here in Brooklyn.”

 

 

 

 

 

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

 

 

 

 

 

“This is a great fight card. That’s why tickets are selling. There are a lot of up-and-coming stars on this dais. It was put together to be great televised boxing, and that’s why we’ll have a full room on Saturday.

 

 

 

 

 

“Barclays Center truly is the home of big-time boxing. This is the venue with the most dedication to a regular boxing program and you see that with the great fights coming here month after month.

 

 

 

 

 

“This card is stacked from top to bottom. The off-television undercard is sensational and features a load of undefeated talent. Heather Hardy will make her return after two consecutive matches in the cage to step back into the ring on this show. We’re here to offer fans the best we can all night long.

 

 

 

 

 

“The first televised bout of the night has Gervonta Davis, one of the rising young stars of the sport, going for his second world title. He’s fighting a former world champion in Jesus Cuellar, who’s an accomplished guy in his own right. Gervonta has his hands full, but he’s going to have a lot of fans up from Maryland supporting him Saturday.

 

 

 

 

 

“There’s a lot of action and controversy in the middleweight division. Jermall Charlo might be the hardest puncher in that division. Him and his brother might be the most accomplished twins in the history of boxing already. He’s got a tough matchup because Hugo Centeno Jr. is also a terrific young fighter with power and great boxing ability. He has star potential if he can overcome this obstacle against Charlo.

 

 

 

 

 

“Adrien Broner is a terrifically skilled boxer, who has star power and brings a lot of attention. You don’t have to be loved by everybody, you have to have people want to see you. A lot of people want to see Adrien Broner. They’re going to see him in a tough fighton Saturday night. Jessie Vargas is already a two-time world champion, who’s had a terrific career and will arguably be the bigger and stronger guy on Saturday. Adrien knows that everything is on the line on Saturday night.”

 

 

 

 

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Events Programming, Showtime Sports Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

“SHOWTIME Boxing is in the midst of an unprecedented run. It has been meaningful fight after meaningful fight.

 

 

 

 

 

“Back in January we made an unprecedented announcement of 11 events this first part of the year. I’m not sure any network has done that many events this year.

 

 

 

 

 

“Barclays Center, like SHOWTIME, has become home to the most meaningful fights in the sport. This isn’t happening by accident. This is an intentional strategy. It’s a plan to promote and elevate the sport and its’ fighters to heights we haven’t seen before. We’ve put real effort into elevating this sport.

 

 

 

 

 

“Saturday’s stacked card has three must-see matchups. These are star fighters versus star battles. There are no ‘no-names’ in this. All six fighters here have headlined fights. These fights are as good as any card that I can remember.”

 

 

 

 

 

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment

 

 

 

 

 

“I’m excited about Saturday night’s fights. It’s packed from top to bottom and should be a great night of BROOKLYN BOXING. It’s a great tripleheader and in many respects this defines Brooklyn boxing. Evenly matched fights, the biggest stars in the sport, some established and some on the rise. You have a bit of everything this weekend

 

 

 

 

 

“We are so thrilled to have Heather Hardy back at Barclays Center on Saturday after a few fights in MMA. She’s a boxer and we can’t wait to have her here this weekend.

 

 

 

 

 

“A big thank you for everyone who has helped establish BROOKLYN BOXING and been partners with us here in Brooklyn. Everyone involved continues to elevate the sport and we’re looking forward to seeing you on Saturday night. Tickets are moving and this could be one of the biggest fights we’ve ever had at Barclays Center.”

 

 

 

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, ,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

CARL FRAMPTON AND NONITO DONAIRE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES IN ADVANCE OF INTERIM WBO FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE BOUT

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This Saturday, April 21 LIVE SHOWTIME Sports® YouTube Channel & SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page

 

 

NEW YORK (April 18, 2018) – Former world champions Carl Frampton and Nonito Donaire took questions from the media at Wednesday’s final press conference at the Europa Hotel in Belfast, Ireland two days ahead of their clash for the interim WBO Featherweight Title this Saturday.  The main event bout from SSE Arena in Belfast, will stream live to U.S. audiences via SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page. (See links and embed codes below).

 

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL® livestream will begin at 5:15 p.m. ET/2:15 p.m. PT with coverage provided by BT Sport and BoxNation and featuring commentary by U.K. sportscasters John Rawling (blow-by-blow) and former featherweight world champion Barry Jones (analysis).

 

 

 

 

Frampton (24-1, 14 KOs), of Northern Ireland, and Donaire (38-4, 24 KOs) of General Santos, Philippines, are two past Fighter of the Year award winners who will meet in a 12-round bout. The winner of this fight will be in position to challenge WBO Featherweight Champion Oscar Valdez, who is recovering from injury following his fourth title defense, a unanimous decision win over Scott Quigg on March 10.

 

 

 

 

This is the first of three high-stakes featherweight fights on SHOWTIME® platforms featuring five of the consensus top-10 ranked featherweights in the world.   On May 19, IBF World Champion Lee Selby will defend his 126-pound title against undefeated Josh Warrington live in the U.S. on SHOWTIME Sports social media platforms and on June 9, Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares will meet live on SHOWTIME in a highly anticipated rematch for the WBA Featherweight World Title.

 

 

 

 

The livestream of Frampton vs. Donaire will precede Saturday evening’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader that features former four-division champion Adrien Broner and former champion Jessie Vargas in a 12-round welterweight bout live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center in Brooklyn. In the co-feature, Jermall Charlo will face Hugo Centeno Jr. for the interim WBC Middleweight World Championship and Gervonta Davis will meet Jesus Cuellar for the WBA Super Featherweight World Championship.

 

 

 

 

Below is what Frampton, Donaire and their respective trainers had to say at today’s press conference:

 

 

 

 

Carl Frampton

“I’m really excited about this fight and I have been since it was announced. To have a guy like Nonito Donaire coming to Belfast to fight me almost feels like a bit of an honor. It’s a quality fight.

 

 

 

 

“It’s a cliché when fighters talk about how good their camp has been, but I genuinely believe that the camp that I’ve had has been the best camp because it’s been my smartest camp. I’ve had a completely different approach to training. I don’t remember having a bad day in training or sparring. I feel like everything is coming together and I’m ready to put on a big performance in front of my home crowd.

 

 

 

 

“I had a lot of respect for Donaire back when he was a champion and I still do. He’s a quality fighter. In terms of accolades, he’s accomplished more than any other fighter that I’ve ever fought. He’s a future Hall of Famer. Hopefully I can put myself in that bracket one day. He is the best fighter that I will have ever fought. That includes Leo Santa Cruz and [Scott] Quigg and everyone else. Donaire has accomplished more than anyone. It’s going to be big for me to get a result here on Saturday night.

 

 

 

 

“I think it’s been a bit disrespectful just talking about his left hook. It takes more than a left hook to become a Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year or five-time world champion. He has a brilliant slip right hand. I know a lot about Nonito Donaire and to say all he has is a left hook is a bit disrespectful. He’s a brilliant fighter and he can do a bit of everything. I’ll need to be ready for different situations and I feel like I’ve covered all the bases in training camp.

 

 

 

 

“Some people want the easiest fights possible but that’s not me. I don’t think that’s Nonito either. I want to be in fights that people talk about and are interested in. This is a fight that puts the winner in position to fight Oscar Valdez for a chance to be a world champion again. When I’m in that position to fight for a world title, it’s fights like this one that are preparing me to go and win it.”

 

 

 

 

Nonito Donaire

“It’s been amazing being here, just as it was the last time. Everybody has been fantastic. Belfast has been a great experience overall. The people have been really warm to my entire team and we’re all having a great time being here.

 

 

 

 

“I believe that I am gifted with great genes. I’m a late bloomer. I feel like I’m starting to get into my peak shape and that’s because of my mentality. Our physical shape can only be as strong as our minds inside that ring. The strength of our mental fortitude has allowed us to be confident here in Belfast where we will be fighting one of the best fighters in the world.

 

 

 

 

“I think I’m a smarter fighter than I was in 2012. With the ups and downs that I’ve experienced in my career, I’ve learned what I’m capable of and where my mind is. We’re very confident going into this fight.

 

 

 

 

“The key factor in this fight is that my wife and I feel that we’re married to Carl because we wake up, we see Carl; we sleep, we see Carl; everything we do we see Carl, so that’s pretty much what it’s all about. I have to say, Carl is an amazing fighter. I have to give it to the guy. For a long time, he was the boogeyman in boxing. He has chosen this fight because it inspires him and I came to Belfast because it inspires me.”

 

 

 

 

Jamie Moore, Carl Frampton’s Trainer

“Last time around, it was a bit of a rushed training camp. We could have benefited from a couple of weeks extra. We’ve taken on a few different changes this time. We’ve done altitude training and taken on a scientific approach.

 

 

 

 

“Carl is in fantastic shape. He’s gradually built up his fitness. The altitude work has been brilliant. Even though the last camp wasn’t bad, this one is by far so much better. He’s in much better condition than last fight and mentally, he’s in a great place.”

 

 

 

 

Mike Bazzel, Nonito Donaire’s Head Trainer

“Nonito has the experience of being on top for so long. When you are at the top for so long, there are always going to be little drops and little valleys. There’s a maturity with Nonito. Most fighters at this stage of their career have a physical decline. Nonito’s body is starting to come into form now. So now, he is not only physically peaking, but he is mentally strong because of all the experience he has.”

 

 

 

 

SATURDAY’S FIGHT: 5:15 p.m. ET / 2:15 p.m. PT (note: start time is approximate)

YouTube Link: https://s.sho.com/2vp8XvT

Facebook Link: https://s.sho.com/FramptonDonaire

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Devin Haney vs. Mason Menard to Fight for USBA/IBF Lightweight Title on  ShoBox: The New Generation

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LAS VEGAS, NV (April 16, 2018) –  When undefeated lightweight sensation, Devin “The Dream” Haney (18-0, 12 KOs), makes his ShoBox: The New Generation debut on Friday, May 11, 2018, against Mason Menard (33-2, 24 KOs), the vacant USBA/IBF lightweight title will be on the line.  The 10-round main event bout will air live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Haney, who fights out of Las Vegas, NV, is looking to become the youngest boxer to possess a world championship belt, and acquiring the vacant USBA/IBF title would get him one step closer to eventually fighting for the IBF World Championship.

“Capturing the USBA lightweight title against a tough opponent like Mason Menard, who has 35 fights under his belt, will certainly inch me closer to fighting for the IBF championship crown,” said Devin Haney, who captured the WBC Youth title in his 14th pro fight. “This fight against Menard is very important to me and my brand.  I want to show the world that I’m the next big star in boxing.  A dominating win against Menard on SHOWTIME will give the fans a taste of what I’m all about.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Greg Cohen Promotions, Devin Haney Promotions & Hard Hitting Promotions, are priced at $125 for VIP, $75 for ringside and $50 for general admission and are available at the 2300 Arena Box office or online at www.HardHittingPromotions.com.