Category Archives: Showtime

boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

GERVONTA DAVIS LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS – Four-Time World Champion Davis Prepares for SHOWTIME PPV® Main Event Showdown Against WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario Barrios Saturday, June 26 from State Farm Arena in Atlanta

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GERVONTA DAVIS LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT
QUOTES AND PHOTOS
 
Four-Time World Champion Davis Prepares for SHOWTIME PPV® Main Event Showdown Against WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario Barrios Saturday, June 26 from State Farm Arena in Atlanta
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LAS VEGAS (June 10, 2021) – Four-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis held a media workout in Las Vegas Wednesday as he approaches his showdown against WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios which headlines a SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, June 26 from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
 
Tickets for the live event at State Farm Arena, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.
 
One of boxing’s biggest stars at just 26-years-old, Davis moves up to 140-pounds for the first time in his career as he aims to add super lightweight champion to his stellar resume. With a victory, Davis will hold world championships in three different divisions simultaneously, a feat only accomplished by a few fighters in history, including Henry Armstrong and Canelo Alvarez.
 
Here is what Davis, along with trainer Calvin Ford, and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe, had to say Wednesday from the Mayweather Boxing Club:
 
GERVONTA DAVIS
 
“We can’t say who the bigger puncher is until we get in that ring and test his power. It doesn’t matter who is stronger, I want to be better than him across the board and in every aspect of the game.
 
“People who are here in the gym with me see a lot of things that I don’t need to bring out, even in my fights. Floyd is always telling me to box and use my skills, and don’t always look for the knockout. This camp we’ve actually been working on getting back to that and letting the knockout come.
 
“For me, greatness is just not going backwards. I just want to keep going forward no matter what. No matter who’s in front of me, I just have to go through them. Where I’m from, a lot of people don’t make it out, so I’m doing something right. It doesn’t even have to be an opponent, it can be something outside of the ring. I’m always chasing greatness.
 
“My thing is just beat whoever is put in front of me. When it’s time, we’ll see who the top guy is. Until then, I don’t need to speak on any other fighter than the one in front of me.
 
“Barrios and I have been through the amateurs together. He’s known what I’ve been doing. It’s crazy how life works out sometimes.
 
“I’m a team player, so whatever my team tells me has to be done to better myself, I’m all for it. That’s what’s made me so good. I don’t just stand out by myself. I have the best team in boxing.
 
“My last fight people complained that Leo Santa Cruz was too small, so I’m basically going out there and showing that a size difference doesn’t matter. I’m going to beat whoever they put in front of me. I’m trying to chase greatness.  
 
“I’m definitely looking to walk down the bigger guy. He might feel like he can walk me down. I was definitely watching Floyd fight a much bigger guy in Logan Paul and taking a few pointers from it.
 
“I don’t know what Barrios will bring, but from my side, I’m bringing everything I’ve got. You know whenever I fight, I’m bringing something for the fans to enjoy.”
 
CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer
 
“’Tank’s’ pay-per-view numbers opened up the doors for the rest of them. It’s because of ‘Tank’s’ social media. When people ask me why people gravitate towards him – he’s just like any kid that’s coming up from the inner cities. Look at basketball players – inner cities. Look at football players – inner cities. He’s showing them that if you put the right people around you and you put your mind to something, anything is possible.
 
“’Tank’, Devin Haney, Teofimo Lopez and Ryan Garcia will be the Four Kings if the fights happen. Let’s keep it real. Right now, they’re doing the same thing that the Four Kings did at the beginning stage. All we have to do is sit back and let the minds that be, do their thing. It’s going to happen. All these fights that people want to see are going to happen.
 
“Have you noticed that ‘Tank’ don’t call anybody out? He never did. But if you put him in front of somebody, he’s going to show you. If you know ‘Tank’ from the amateurs, he’s going to show up in the ring. He’s like a baby Mike Tyson.
 
“The weight isn’t what I’m focused on, it’s actually the opponent. When I started studying the opponent, his coach and I go way back in the amateurs. When we see each other, we know each other. It’s about the minds. He knows his athlete and I know my athlete. That night, it’s about the minds. It’s about who is going to hold fast to what they’re supposed to be doing. That’s the fight for me.
 
“I wouldn’t say this is the toughest test of ‘Tank’s’ career because nobody can show me the best of ‘Tank’ yet. I know the best of ‘Tank’. Ya’ll ain’t seen ‘Tank’.”
 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
 
“From top to bottom this is one of those pay-per-view events that you don’t want to miss. Anytime you have the most exciting fighter in the sport, you know it’s going to be big. Don’t expect anything less on June 26.
 
“Coach Calvin Ford is a tremendous trainer who’s been with Gervonta since day one and they have a great game plan in place. I fully expect him to be able to execute. But Barrios is coming for him. He’s got a great trainer himself in Virgil Hunter and has made great progression with Virgil.
 
“We know this is going to be a tough fight, but Gervonta just has to figure it out from the opening bell. And I believe he’ll do that, but it will take some time. Barrios is looking to upset the apple cart.  
 
“Gervonta is molding into his comfort zone. He’s becoming more comfortable with the media because he truly understands what he has in front of him. He knows that his ceiling is to be the biggest star in the sport. On the inside of the ring though, nothing has changed.
 
“The co-feature is a terrific bout with Erickson Lubin taking on Jeison Rosario. That’s going to be a very entertaining fight. A win for Lubin puts him one step closer to his ultimate goal. Lubin feels like he’s the best in the weight class and eventually right that wrong of his loss to Jermell Charlo. But he has a tough rugged fighter in front of him and that should be an exciting bout.
 
“Former unified champion Julian Williams is looking to bounce back against Brian Mendoza on the pay-per-view. Julian is obviously one of the top fighters in the division, and he’s looking to get back what he lost.
 
“In the opening bout the very tough Batyr Akhmedov is up against Argenis Mendez, who is always in go-mode. So it really shows you how highly entertaining this card is all the way through. I’m really excited to be back at State Farm Arena.”
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

LIZ CARMOUCHE MEETS UNDEFEATED KANA WATANABE IN THE CO-MAIN EVENT OF BELLATOR MMA 261 ON FRIDAY, JUNE 25 – LIVE ON SHOWTIME AT 9 P.M. ET/6 P.M. PT

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LOS ANGELES – Liz Carmouche (15-7), who is No. 5 in the BELLATOR women’s pound-for-pound rankings, will face the promotion’s No. 3 ranked flyweight Kana Watanabe (10-0-1) during the co-main event of BELLATOR MMA 261: Johnson vs. Moldavsky on Friday, June 25.
 
The BELLATOR 261 main card airs live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and takes place at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. A limited number of tickets starting at $60 are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.
 
Newly announced preliminary matchups feature a bantamweight tilt pitting Jaylon Bates (2-0) against Cody Matthews (1-1) and middleweight matchup between Taylor Johnson (6-2) and Lance Wright (5-1).
 
The preliminary portion of BELLATOR 261: Johnson vs. Moldavsky begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV.
 
BELLATOR 261: Johnson vs. Moldavsky is anchored by an interim heavyweight title bout between No. 1 ranked Timothy Johnson (15-6) and No. 3 ranked Valentin Moldavsky (10-1). A featherweight fight featuring former title challenger No. 5 ranked Daniel Weichel (40-12) against Hawaii’s undefeated Keoni Diggs (9-0) and a light heavyweight re-booking between No. 10 ranked Christian Edwards (4-0) and Ben Parrish (4-1) have also been confirmed for the main card.
 
Additional prelims include a lightweight bout featuring No. 6 ranked Myles Jury (19-5) versus No. 7 ranked Sidney Outlaw (15-4), a women’s strawweight fight pitting Lena Ovchynnikova (12-6, 1 NC) against Kyra Batara (8-4), a light heavyweight contest seeing Lee Chadwick (26-15-1) versus Simon Biyong (7-1), and a lightweight affair between Søren Bak (14-1) and Bobby Lee (12-5).
 
Carmouche is a highly skilled veteran of the sport who joined BELLATOR’s women’s flyweight division in 2019 following a six-year run in the UFC. Fighting out of San Diego, the 37-year-old Team Hurricane Awesome-product also formerly competed for Strikeforce, notching a pair of victories with the promotion. Since signing with BELLATOR, “Girl-Rilla” has rallied off two straight wins, defeating Vanessa Porto and DeAnna Bennett. Prior to Carmouche’s days as a professional athlete, the Lafayette, Louisiana-native spent five years serving as an aviation electrician in the United Stated Marine Corps, where she completed three tours of duty in the Middle East.
 
“I’m looking forward to getting back in the cage. I plan to end this fight with a dominant finish that stamps my name as the top contender for the belt,” Carmouche said.
 
Undefeated through 11 professional fights, Japan’s Watanabe steps into the BELLATOR MMA cage for the third time in as many years. With frying-pan-bending strength, the 32-year-old judoka boasts an impressive 60% finishing rate and has bested fellow BELLATOR flyweights Alejandra Lara and Ilara Joanne since joining the promotion’s ranks. The No. 3 ranked flyweight is looking to make a statement of her own and stake her claim to a shot at BELLATOR’s coveted 125-pound championship.
 
“I am very grateful to be given another opportunity to fight during these hard times. Liz Carmouche has tons of experience and has constantly been fighting the best which makes her without a doubt one of the best in the world,” Watanabe said. “I fully respect her in every aspect and am truly honored to face such an athlete. With that being said, I am excited to take on this challenge to prove to everybody and myself that I have what it takes to become the best in the world. I want to win this fight in a convincing way, to open up the doors for a title challenge shot.”
 
****
 
BELLATOR MMA 261: Johnson vs. Moldavsky Main Card:
SHOWTIME
9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT 
 
Interim Heavyweight Title Main Event: #1-Tim Johnson (15-6) vs. #3-Valentin Moldavsky (10-1)
Flyweight Co-Main Event: #2– Liz Carmouche (15-7) vs. #3-Kana Watanabe (10-0-1)
Featherweight Main Card Bout: #5- Daniel Weichel (40-12) vs. Keoni Diggs (9-0)
Light Heavyweight Main Card Bout: #10– Christian Edwards (4-0) vs. Ben Parrish (4-1)
 
Preliminary Card: 
BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV
5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT
 
Strawweight bout: Lena Ovchynnikova (12-6, 1 NC) vs. Kyra Batara (8-4)
Lightweight bout: #6-Myles Jury (19-5) vs. #7-Sidney Outlaw (15-4)
Lightweight bout: Søren Bak (14-1) vs. Bobby Lee (12-5)
Bantamweight Bout: Jaylon Bates (2-0) vs. Cody Matthews (1-1)
Middleweight Bout: Taylor Johnson (6-2) vs. Lance Wright (5-1)
Light Heavyweight Bout: Lee Chadwick (26-15-1) vs. Simon Biyong (7-1)
 
 
*Card subject to change.
 
For more information on upcoming BELLATOR MMA events, visit BELLATOR.com.
 
boxing, mixed martial arts, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JAKE PAUL VS. TYRON WOODLEY FACEOFF QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

MIAMI (June 4, 2021) – Social media superstar and undefeated pro boxer Jake “The Problem Child” Paul faced off with his next opponent, five-time UFC champion Tyron Woodley, at the historic 5th Street Gym in Miami on Thursday ahead of their highly anticipated summer showdown on SHOWTIME PPV.

Here is what Paul and Woodley had to say following their heated stare down in Miami:

JAKE PAUL

“I told him I’ll pay you double your purse if you beat me. But if you lose, you have to pay your purse to my charity. He lacks confidence. Why wouldn’t you take that bet as a fighter if you knew you were going to win? To make double the money? This is the biggest pay day of your life and you can make double? Put your money where your mouth is.

“He’s a good striker. He’s known for knocking people out. But I think when I beat Tyron, people have to put respect on my name. But that’s not what I’m here for to be honest. I already know how good I am. I know that this is going to be another easy fight. That’s why SHOWTIME is in business with me. You’re looking at the future of boxing.

“He’s not as good as me and he’s playing catch-up. We see holes in his whole entire game and he has try to learn how to box. He’s stiff. Muscles don’t fight and he’s going to be out of his element. This is boxing. This isn’t MMA. You can’t learn how to box in this amount of time. Now we’re going to show him the reins. The Disney kid is going to beat up the five-time UFC champion of the world. It’s going to be hilarious.

“I haven’t even shown my fighting abilities at all. I haven’t even made it past two rounds in my professional career. I haven’t been hit in the face. Nobody can even see if I have a chin or my inside fighting game. I haven’t even warmed up yet. And by the way, I’m the type of fighter that gets better the longer the fight goes on. I get better in sparring so I haven’t even been able to warm up and I’m excited to show my ability if he can make it out of the first round.

“I’ve predicted every single one of my fights. I said Ben Askren, first round. I said Nate Robinson, first round. He got to the second. I said in my first pro fight, first round. I don’t think Tyron will make it out of two rounds. You might not even get to see my boxing abilities in this fight to be honest.”

TYRON WOODLEY

“I’ve always wanted to box my whole life but never did it. This is my opportunity. This is a kid that’s a power-puncher. He’s got a lot of strength behind him. This is going to be a big platform to showcase what I can do in a boxing ring. And he’s a fighter. He can fight. At the end of the day, you can watch him and the timing, the rhythm and the footwork is there.

“He hasn’t fought very long. But the little action that I have seen was clean. Good defense. Nate was rushing him, he protected himself and he came out of his shell and cracked him.

“He’s trying to downplay his ability. He’s a fighter. Don’t let him play you by saying, ‘I’m just a YouTuber.’ Last week, he was a fighter. When he was saying nobody wanted to fight him, he was a fighter. You’re not a YouTuber anymore. You’re not on Disney. It’s been a long time since he was on Disney. That’s like me saying I’m just a collegiate wrestler and I don’t punch people.

“I just want to have fun. I want to train hard. I want to get better. I want to go out there and do things on my terms and be the one to call the shots. I want to go out there and make history. I always make history. I may not always get the credit for it but I’m always the first. Fighters always hit me up asking what they should do, what they’re doing wrong. Now it’s time for me to go do it myself.”

boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

MAYWEATHER VS. PAUL PAY-PER-VIEW UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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(Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME)

Featuring Badou Jack, Dervin Colina, Jarrett Hurd and Luis Arias

Plus! Former NFL Star Chad Johnson Ahead of Boxing Debut Against Brian Maxwell

Fighters Competing on Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV® Undercard Preview Respective Showdowns Taking Place This Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/

Mayweather Promotions

MIAMI (June 4, 2021) – Fighters competing on the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV undercard previewed their respective showdowns during a final press conference Friday before they enter the ring this Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Friday’s press conference featured two-division champion Badou Jack and unbeaten Dervin Colina, who meet in the 10-round light heavyweight co-main event, and former unified champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd and veteran contender Luis Arias, who square off in a 10-round attraction.

Also participating in the press conference was former NFL star Chad Johnson and versatile fighter Brian Maxwell, as Johnson makes his boxing debut in a special exhibition against Maxwell to kick off the pay-per-view telecast at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Friday from the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry:

BADOU JACK

“I’m just thankful that I’m still fighting on Sunday night. Now we have a new opponent and it’s going to be the same outcome. I’m in great shape and I can’t wait. 

“Colina is just another guy. I respect him for coming in and stepping up as a late replacement. But I was going to win this fight on Sunday whether it was Pascal or anyone.

“I’m very frustrated about Jean Pascal. But I’m a pro and I can adjust no matter who is in front of me. I’m disappointed because I won the first fight against Pascal and I waited 18 months to get my revenge.

“I have a little anger that might get taken out on Colina, but it’s nothing personal, just business that I’m here to take care of on Sunday night.

“I don’t really care about the title too much, I really just cared about getting that revenge against Pascal. I waited so long for this and I could have taken different fights while I waited.

“He’s an undefeated guy so he’s going to come in here with a lot of confidence looking to show off his power. We’ll be ready though regardless how he comes into the fight. I had great sparring like always, so I’m prepared for what he’s going to bring.”

DERVIN COLINA

“I’d like to thank Team Badou Jack for the opportunity. This is what I do. I was born for this. Come Sunday you guys will see what I do.

“I was scheduled to fight June 11 on a different card. The fight came a little bit earlier on June 6. But I’m ready to fight and there are no excuses for this fight. I’m coming to win at all costs. And you’ll see what I do on Sunday.

“I respect Badou and what he’s done in this sport, but I know that I have everything I need to shock the world come Sunday night.

“I have nothing to lose and that makes me dangerous. I’m going to leave everything in the ring and announce to the whole world that I’m a fighter you’re going to be hearing from.”

JARRETT HURD

“Everyone knows I have unfinished business at 154-pounds. I’m not looking past Arias though. This fight is just a stop at middleweight because I’m going back down to take care of that business.

“We’ve had an amazing training camp with my new trainer Kay Koroma in Colorado Springs. I have a chip on my shoulder. I think a lot of people forgot who I was. I had the best resume in the weight class. Come Sunday, I’m going to remind everyone who I am.

“It’s always strictly business and it’ll be the same on Sunday. Arias is obsessed with my weight and thinks I’m struggling. But he needs to focus on what he needs to do on Sunday night.

“I don’t know where I’m rated right now, but I’m the best fighter at 154 pounds. Showing that to the world is the goal on Sunday.

“We just took it back to the basics in training camp with my coach Kay Koroma. You can always learn more in the sport.

“I’ve been boxing for 15 years now and coach Koroma just helped me evolve the things I already knew. He’s got me not just coming forward and using my strength, but moving around and boxing a little bit.”

LUIS ARIAS

“I think the narrative is they needed an opponent for Jarrett Hurd, and I wasn’t looking so great lately. But people tend to forget I was 18-0 before I got my first blemish. When I was with Floyd Mayweather, I was 9-0 and that’s when I was most comfortable. That’s the mentality I’m taking into this fight.

“I’ve been around Floyd since December. I’ve been in Vegas training in the altitude, just like Hurd. I’m in tip-top shape for this fight and he still has to figure out how he’s going to fight.

“Now the boxing world is going to be watching this fight. I’m going to be on my Ps and Qs and he won’t have to look for me. He will have to pick and choose once he gets hit on Sunday what style he wants to fight.

“This is a must-win for me. This is a great name for my resume. I haven’t ducked anyone. I’ve taken every name that’s been brought to me. When his name came up I said absolutely. I’m ready and I’m an old-school fighter. I’d fight you in this backyard, that backyard, any backyard. On Sunday it will show.

“He’s the one who has got the issue with the weight. The fight doesn’t really make much sense at 160 because he’s not ranked and wants to go back down to 154. But it’s too big of an opportunity and too big of a card to complain about the weight. We’re going to put the gloves on and whatever he weighs, he weighs. This is going to be the best fight on the card.”

CHAD JOHNSON

“I feel really good. I’ve been using boxing to prepare for football throughout the years, but I’ve never done it to this magnitude. To prepare for an actual fight, is something new. I’m facing a guy who does this for a living, so I’m not taking this lightly at all.

“I was always nervous before every kickoff. So I’d be a fool to say I’m not nervous going into something where I’m out of my element.


“One thing I’m extremely good at, is when there’s lights, cameras and a crowd, is going in there and entertaining.

“I’ve been working with Jorge Masvidal a little bit, but the last few weeks have been in Houston with Jermall and Jermell Charlo. That’s where most of my work has been. I’ve been doing everything possible to make sure I look the part Sunday night.

“I’m out of my element, so of course I’m approaching this fight humbly. He’s coming to knock my head off. Football is something I did all my life, that’s why I walked the way I did. I can’t be arrogant and take this fight lightly.”

BRIAN MAXWELL

“I don’t know how my name came up for this fight. But like everyone has said, ‘Who is Brian Maxwell?’ That’s been a trending topic on every social media. But guess what? Today, you all know who Brian Maxwell is. And I’m excited about this. It’s a perfect matchup for me. It’s a perfect matchup for Chad. The best of both worlds. Coming from a fan. My hashtag on social media has become ‘Idols Become Rivals.’ And this is the perfect time and the perfect moment for me and him. Like I told him over the phone, I’m a huge fan. But the fanboy has gone out the window. Now we have to entertain and that’s what we’re going to do.

“This is an exhibition, so we are coming to entertain the fans and put on a show. But at the same time, we are two men who are coming in front of each other and have to fight. No matter the outcome, we’re going to put on a great fight.

“I’ve followed this man since Day 1. I know his every move. I’ve modeled myself after him and it’s like fighting myself. I’m going to be humble about this and we are going to put on a show for everyone.

“That has been the question, what round am I going to knock him out. I’m here to entertain and to have fun. This is a great opportunity.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“We have a stacked undercard on Sunday night. I’ve promoted tons of events and this is one that I’m really looking forward to, because it gives us an array of great fights in addition to a little something different.

“I’m really looking forward to this card. South Florida has been buzzing since we announced this event. We can’t wait for the great crowd and the tons of fans tuning in from all around the world.

“When I think of Chad Johnson, he’s a showman. He does so many different things really well. He’ll be making his foray into the boxing industry in what should be a terrific bout against Brian Maxwell. Chad is looking to possibly steal the show, which is what he’s known for doing.

“Former unified champ Jarrett Hurd is a great champion and I’ve known him for many years. He’s looking to get back and make his mark where he left off. He’s let it be known that after this fight, he’s going to take control of the 154-pound division again. He’ll be up against Mayweather Promotions own Luis Arias and I’ve had the opportunity to witness Arias preparation firsthand. I can tell you right now he’s more than prepared to upset Jarrett.

“In the co-main, I can’t say enough about Badou Jack. He’s a great champion in the ring and a terrific example outside of the ring. He does so much to help people around the world and Floyd and I are really proud of him. We know he’s going to put on a great show Sunday.

“When it comes to this undercard, the fans are in for a great treat. It’s going to be nothing but action from top to bottom.”

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ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. LOGAN PAUL

Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is a special exhibition bout presented by Mayweather Promotions, FANMIO and Mavathltcs that will take place on Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The telecast, which is being produced by SHOWTIME PPV, will air live beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and can be purchased now atSHOWTIME.com and FANMIO.com. The undercard will feature two-division world champion Badou Jack in a 10-round contest against the undefeated Dervin Colina, plus former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd against Luis Arias in a 10-round bout and in a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in a four-round exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell.

For more information visit bit.ly/mayweatherpaul,  www.SHO.com/sports, www.FANMIO.com. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromo, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromotions, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO.

boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

TWO-DIVISION CHAMPION BADOU JACK TO FACE UNBEATEN DERVIN COLINA IN MAYWEATHER VS. PAUL SHOWTIME PPV

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MIAMI – (June 3, 2021) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack will face undefeated Dervin Colina in a 10-round light heavyweight bout that serves as the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV co-main event this Sunday, June 6 from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
 
Colina replaces Jean Pascal, who was originally slated to face Jack before failing a pre-fight drug test.
 
The pay-per-view telecast will begin live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature former unified 154-pound champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd taking on Luis Arias in a 10-round showdown, plus former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in an exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell.
 
Tickets for the live event are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.
 
Born in Stockholm, Jack (22-3-3, 13 KOs), who represented his father’s home country of Gambia in the 2008 Olympics, now lives in Las Vegas. Jack won the 168-pound world title with a majority decision against Anthony Dirrell in 2015 and successfully defended the belt three times before being handed a hard-fought majority draw against James DeGale in one of 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 then WBC champion Adonis Stevenson in May 2018. After dropping a narrow fight to Pascal in 2019, Jack’s most recent outing saw him earn a unanimous decision over Blake McKernan in November 2020.
 
The 33-year-old Colina (15-0, 13 KOs) lives in Medellin, Colombia, and is a native of Venezuela. He steps in on short notice to make his United States debut against Jack. Colina has competed at both super middleweight and light heavyweight in recent years and is riding a six-fight knockout streak into June 6. Colina has been training with renowned coach Stacy McKinley for the last two months in Pompano Beach, Florida.
 
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ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. LOGAN PAUL
Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is a special exhibition bout presented by Mayweather Promotions, FANMIO and Mavathltcs that will take place on Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The telecast, which is being produced by SHOWTIME PPV, will air live beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and can be purchased now at SHOWTIME.com and FANMIO.com. The undercard will feature two-division world champion Badou Jack in a 10-round contest against the undefeated Dervin Colina, plus former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd against Luis Arias in a 10-round bout and in a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in a four-round exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell.
 
For more information visit bit.ly/mayweatherpaul,  www.SHO.com/sports, www.FANMIO.com. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromo, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromotions, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO.
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

BELLATOR MMA Confirms Full Fight Card for BELLATOR 260 on SHOWTIME Next Friday, June 11 at 9 p.m. ET

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DOUGLAS LIMA DEFENDS WELTERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE AGAINST NO. 1 RANKED YAROSLAV AMOSOV IN MAIN EVENT

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LOS ANGELES – BELLATOR MMA has confirmed the full fight card for BELLATOR MMA 260: Lima vs. Amosov on Friday, June 11 at Mohegan Sun Arena. The event is the promotion’s first show in America with fans in attendance since the start of the pandemic and airs LIVE on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

BELLATOR’s 170-pound kingpin Douglas Lima (32-8) returns to the welterweight division to put his title on the line against undefeated and No. 1 ranked Yaroslav Amosov (25-0) in a must-watch main event clash.

In addition to the headliner, the entirety of the BELLATOR 260 main card on SHOWTIME is stacked, including a 175-pound contract weight co-main event pitting legendary No. 6 ranked welterweight Paul Daley (43-17-2) against the streaking No. 3 ranked welterweight Jason Jackson (14-4). Also, a featherweight feature fight between the hard-hitting No. 6 ranked Aaron Pico (7-3) versus Birmingham’s Aiden Lee (9-4) and a welterweight showdown between Demarques Jackson (11-5) and Mark Lemminger (9-0, 1 NC). The newly announced fifth and final main card bout features a showdown between No. 10 ranked Vanessa Porto (5-3) and Pitbull Brothers-product Ilara Joanne (9-5) in a 128-pound contract weight bout.

The preliminary card is locked in with six action-packed fights, highlighted by a featherweight battle between No. 9 ranked Tywan Claxton (6-2) and the undefeated Justin Gonzales (11-0), who is making his BELLATOR debut. Meanwhile, hometown hero and fan-favorite Nick Newell (16-3) is set to square off against Bobby King (9-3) in a lightweight bout and 20-year-old phenom Lucas Brennan (4-0) prepares for a 150-pound contract weight clash with Matthew Skibicki (4-3). Also, two-time NCAA All-American wrestling standout Kyle Crutchmer (6-1) will take on undefeated welterweight Levan Chokheli (9-0, 1 NC) to cap off this stacked preliminary card.

All BELLATOR 260 prelims will stream live at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV.

As part of the launch of BELLATOR MMA on SHOWTIME, the network is offering viewers who are new to the SHOWTIME streaming service a 30-day free trial, followed by a discounted monthly subscription fee of $4.99/month for the next six months. Viewers can sign up at SHO.com/BellatorMMA. Subscribers will be delivered two premier BELLATOR MMA events per month throughout 2021 and beyond, with all events scheduled to air live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT anywhere the SHOWTIME service is available.

Full bout listings are below:

 BELLATOR MMA 260: Lima vs. Amosov Main Card:

Friday, June 11 – Live on SHOWTIME

9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT 

Welterweight World Title Main Event: c-Douglas Lima (32-8) vs. #1-Yaroslav Amosov (25-0)

175-pound Contract Weight Co-Main Event: #6-Paul Daley (43-17-2) vs. #3-Jason Jackson (14-4)

Featherweight Bout: #6-Aaron Pico (7-3) vs. Aiden Lee (9-4)

128-pound Contract Weight Bout: #10-Vanessa Porto (22-9) vs. Ilara Joanne (9-5)

Welterweight Bout: Demarques Jackson (11-5) vs. Mark Lemminger (11-3)

Preliminary Card:

BELLATOR MMA YouTube Channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel | Pluto TV

6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT

Welterweight Bout: Kyle Crutchmer (6-1) vs. Levan Chokheli (9-0, 1 NC)

Featherweight Bout: #9-Tywan Claxton (6-2) vs. Justin Gonzales (11-0)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Newell (16-3) vs. Bobby King (9-3)

150-pound Contract Weight Bout: Lucas Brennan (4-0) vs. Matthew Skibicki (4-3)

Featherweight Bout: #8-Amanda Bell (7-7) vs. Marina Mokhnatkina (4-2)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Alex Polizzi (7-1) vs. Gustavo Trujillo (3-1)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

NONITO DONAIRE MAKES HISTORY, CAPTURES WBC BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH FOURTH-ROUND KNOCKOUT

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Subriel Matias and Gary Antuanne Russell Notch

Big Knockout Wins

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Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions

CARSON, CALIF. (May 29, 2021) – Nonito Donaire is champion once again. Fourteen years after he won his first world title, the “Filipino Flash” cemented his Hall of Fame credentials with a sensational fourth-round KO win over Nordine Oubaali to capture the WBC World Bantamweight title Saturday night in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“The king has returned,” Donaire beamed afterward. “I just love the crowds. All my friends, family, all the boxing fans that came out thank you so much. You guys are wonderful.”

The 38-year-old Donaire (41-6, 27 KOs) is now the oldest world champion ever at 118-pounds. He accomplished it with the left hand that has been the calling card of his career as he dropped Oubaali (17-1, 12 KOs) three times in total.

“Being at this age is not the question, it’s about my performance,” said Donaire. “About my ability to grow. I believe it matters not what your age is, but how mentally strong you are. What I learned from the [Naoya] Inoue fight is that I’m back. I can still compete at this level. The whole time I was not fighting, I was learning. I’m ready for the next one.”

Following a feel-out first round, Donaire went to work in the second, walking Oubaali down and countering with thudding effect. Donaire scored the first knockdown early in the third, dropping Oubaali with his trademark counter left hook. The Frenchman rose on unsteady legs and Donaire pounced, landing more big shots until another left hook floored Oubaali just a split second before the round ended. Again, Oubaali struggled to his feet, dazed yet willing to fight on.

The end came swiftly in the fourth. Donaire expertly maneuvered Oubaali around the ring, pinning him against the ropes where a left uppercut sent Oubaali crumpling to the canvas for a third and final time. Referee Jack Reiss immediately called it off. The official time of the stoppage was 1:52 of the fourth round.

“Three decades of being world champion. Nine-time world champion. That’s amazing,” said Donaire. “I came in here and I felt really good. Today I knew exactly what was going to happen. I knew exactly what I was going to do. I think I was just very focused in the gym. I was very, very focused. I just felt really good coming in and I was grateful to get this opportunity.

“Tonight was something that I had to prove to the world that I’m back and I’m stronger than ever. He was a very tough guy. I think ultimately for me, there was a level of should I be more patient? Or should I go for it? Something I learned in the Inoue fight was to go for the kill. And that’s exactly what I did. I was patient, but I knew he was hurt enough that I could take him out.”

In the co-feature, Puerto Rico’s Subriel Matias (17-1, 17 KOs) delivered another power-punching display, breaking down previously-unbeaten Batyr Jukembayev (18-1, 14 KOs) until Jukembayev’s corner stopped the bout after eight riveting rounds. 

“I think this is what everybody expected. Everybody knew it was going to be a great war,” said Matias. “This was going to end by knockout whether I was going to get knocked out or Jukembayev was going to get knocked out. I’m just glad it was me who knocked him out.”

Matias establishes himself as one of the best in a stacked division, but this latest win wasn’t easy. Kazakhstan’s Jukembayev came out strong, landing a right hook-right uppercut combination upstairs from his southpaw stance that got Matias’ attention in the first.

Jukembayev pushed the pace in the second. Matias began letting his hands go in the third, throwing in combination to the head and body. Both combatants were now fully warmed up, setting the stage for a fourth round that could be a candidate for “Round of the Year.”


It began when a hard left hook staggered Jukembayev and drove him to the canvas. Matias sought to close the show but Jukembayev held on, cleared his head and started landing his own shots. With a minute left in the stanza, Jukembayev stunned Matias with a left cross. Instead of clinching, Matias fought fire with fire, bringing the crowd out of their seats with toe-to-toe action until the bell sounded.

Matias never stopped coming forward. Following a one-sided sixth, Jukembayev returned to his corner with both eyes swelling shut. The back and forth ensued in the seventh as Jukembayev buzzed Matias with two right hooks toward the end of the round.

Matias returned to the driver’s seat in the eighth round, pounding away at Jukembayev with both fists. In total, he out-landed Jukembayev by 100 punches (234/608 to 134 /409) and was more accurate (38.5% to 32.8%). The accumulation of blows was enough to convince Jukembayev’s corner to request the bout be stopped.

“He knew he had nothing to lose. He came in and was doing everything strong,” said Matias. “He knew that all he could do was knock me out to win. I would have done the same thing. That’s a warrior’s heart and he has all my respect.

“After that fourth round, I mean he is a very competitive fighter, so it turned into a war after that point. My hands go up to him as well. It was a great fight. I definitely have had other opponents that were very good, but this is the one that has given me the hardest test.”

In the telecast opener, Gary Antuanne Russell (14-0, 14 KOs) continued his ascent up the super lightweight ranks. The undefeated Russell became the first to stop the ruggedJovanie Santiago (14-2-1, 10 KOs), dominating Santiago until referee Sharon Sands halted the contest following the sixth round at the suggestion of Santiago’s corner.

“The objective is to get the man out as soon as possible and come out unscathed,” said Russell. “I just want to say that Santiago was a class-A opponent. A lot of people think he beat Adrien Broner. I want Adrien Broner now.”

With older brother and WBC World Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. working his corner, Gary Antuanne controlled the action from the opening bell. The 2016 Olympian worked the jab and straight left behind the southpaw stance, snapping Santiago’s head back several times in the first.

Russell, 24, continued to land the left in the second and third. Early in the fourth, he followed up a straight left to the ribs with a short right hook upstairs that dropped Santiago to a knee. Puerto Rico’s Santiago gamely rose to his feet and survived the follow-up onslaught to make it out of the round.

“The importance to me is to execute round-by-round, and round-by-round, I was executing more and more. My father told me to go to the body, right hook upstairs. He was open to that,” said Russell.

Russell showed no signs of slowing despite being extended beyond four rounds for the first time in his pro career. The Capital Heights, Md. product battered Santiago in the sixth, landing punishing combinations throughout the frame. Moments later, the bout was stopped.

“It’s definitely important to me to perform so I’m not just known as Gary Russell’s younger brother,” said Russell, who landed 146 of 444 punches (32.9%). “I come from an excellent background of fighters. We’re building a dynasty.

“How soon do I want to get back in the ring? If I could fight on the Deontay Wilder card, that would be great.”

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will replay Sunday, May 30 at 9 a.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and Monday, May 31 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handled blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer was David Dinkins, Jr., the Producer was Ray Smaltz and the Director was Chuck McKean. Three-time super bantamweight world champion Israel Vazquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna served as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

NORDINE OUBAALI VS. NONITO DONAIRE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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WBC Bantamweight World Champion Oubaali Takes On Future Hall Of Famer Donaire This Saturday, May 29 Live On SHOWTIME® In A Premier Boxing Champions Event From
Dignity Health Sports Park In Carson, Calif.
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions
 
CARSON, CALIF. (May 27, 2021) – WBC Bantamweight World Champion Nordine Oubaali and future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their world title showdown taking place this Saturday, May 29 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
 
The press conference also featured hard-hitting contender Subriel Matias and unbeaten Batyr Jukembayev, who meet in the co-main event for a 12-round IBF Junior Welterweight Title Eliminator, and unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell and Jovanie Santiago, who square off in a 10-round super lightweight clash that opens the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
 
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
 
NORDINE OUBAALI
 
“Yes, we’ve sparred but training is training. When you go into a fight, it’s not the same. Every fight is different and I know on Saturday I will put on a great show with Nonito Donaire because I know he’s a good boxer but I know I’m the best. I trained so hard for this and now I’m ready to fight. I want to show everybody that the best two bantamweights in boxing today are fighting on Saturday.
 
“Yes, he’s had an outstanding career and he has power but I believe I have more power than him. I know I have the power. He’s a good boxer but I’m the world champion and on Saturday I’m going to show the world who is the best. I know I am the best. I respect Nonito. He’s had a good career but I’m the best in the division.
 
“The difference in the fight is going to be I want to win more. I want to continue to make history and stay as the world champion in this division. I know that it’s my time. I want this more than he does.
 
“If I’m victorious, why not have my next fight be for the unification? I want to make history every time and this is my motivation. I’m here because I love boxing and I want to face the best boxers every time. I’m facing Nonito Donaire and that’s great for my career. I just like to fight and this is my life.”
 
NONITO DONAIRE
 
“It would be great to win the title at 38 years old and become the oldest champion at 118 pounds, but let’s keep it going. Let’s make it 40. Let’s make it 42. There ain’t no stopping me. Mentally, I’m very grateful but at the same time I’m just very ready.
 
“I’m always healthy and the reason why I can compete with anybody is because I keep myself healthy and I work hard. There’s nothing less than 100 percent every time I’m in that gym.
 
“I’m very hard-headed so I don’t always do what people tell me to do. People can say that it’s their time. But I also have my time and I’m always going to be the one who concedes their time or makes that decision. It’s still my time.
 
“It’s going to be a great fight. Oubaali is the champion for a reason. He’s been through it in terms of the amateurs and making it here. So we’re not underestimating any of that. But I’ve fought in this venue many times and I always make magical fights in the first place. It’s always going to be magical with me. I’m a unicorn.
 
“The difference in this fight is going to be my hunger. He’s younger than me but I have the hunger. We both have an objective and that’s what’s going to make this a great fight.
 
“I want to fight the best out there. I want the rematch with Naoya Inoue and I want to get all the belts. The only thing I haven’t accomplished in boxing is becoming undisputed champion. I’ve done everything else. Fighter of the Year. Knockout of the Year. Multiple championships. Four-division champion. You name it. That’s my main goal. Get the belt and put them all together.
 
“Bantamweight is my real weight. I’ve always fought in the heavier division because of the excitement, the challenge and the lucrative offer or the names at that time. Now, I’m here where I belong and this is where I’m really strong.
 
“The layoff will not be a factor at all. The time off helped me out. Just being out of the ring helped my body recover. And the eagerness and the hunger is there more than ever. It was a blessing for me.”
 
SUBRIEL MATIAS
 
“I will be his toughest test without question and come Saturday night, everybody will find out why I’m saying that.
 
“I believe him when he says that he has the tools to get a stoppage on Saturday. But it’s not just a matter of saying, on Saturday night he has to prove it. If it’s going to come out of your mouth, then you have to prove it.
 
“We’re both knockout artists and with what we’re looking at, this fight should not finish by a decision.
 
“I don’t have much to say about that fight against Petros Ananyan. Those that saw me lose, I lost. There’s nothing I can say about it. But those that know boxing know that I’ve been progressing and improving and you all will see that on Saturday.”
 
BATYR JUKEMBAYEV
 
“I had a great training camp. I am ready for Saturday night. I know that he’s a good fighter but I promise that I will be ready.
 
“We will see Saturday night whether it’s going to end in a knockout. I’ll show you what I’m made of and you will all see.”
 
GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL
 
“I’m in the hurt business. He’s a slugger. If he wants to come in there and slug with me, he will feel my power. He will see how intelligent I am. Not just mentally, but physically with my hands. Like I said, I’m in the hurt business. I come to hurt.
 
“Pardon my lack of Spanish, but what you are going to see is, ‘la violencia.’ He’s going to bring his pressure. He’s going to bring punches in bunches and I believe that’s all he can bring. If he’s been training and trying to perfect himself for my style of fighting, that’s fine. You’re not supposed to come in here one-dimensional. A diamond shines from all sides.
 
“The only thing I can say is this venue is going to promote blood, sweat and tears and the desire of people to be great. I’m definitely one of them. I’ve been in the gym giving my blood, my sweat and my tears and I’m bringing all of that to this venue come Saturday night.
 
“I definitely want to stay more active. That’s always been my plan. The pandemic slowed things down. Fans always tell me they want to see me get back in there…I just tell them, me too. The fighters aren’t the ones pulling all of the strings. Should I be more active? Of course. I want to be more active.
 
“I want to show that I’m the cream of the crop. I’m a superstar. The light hasn’t been shining on me because there’s a lot of other things going on. Until then, you’re going to have to wait and see. Come Saturday, it will be a great show. There will be some sparks and fireworks. I have an opponent that’s not willing to lay down. If he’s not willing to, I must make him lay down.”
 
JOVANIE SANTIAGO
 
“I know that he’s a good fighter. An Olympian. He’s young and he’s going to come fight. I’m going to come to fight too, so if the fight finishes early, then it finishes early.
 
“I just have to work round-by-round, throw punches and win one round at a time. After I beat Russell, everybody is going to be on my side.
 
“This is my weight. This is where I’m most comfortable. I’ve always been a 140-pounder and Saturday that’s what I’m going to demonstrate.
 
“This time, I’m fighting at my actual weight. I feel strong. I’m coming to work round-by-round and on Saturday everybody will see what I’m all about.”
 
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ABOUT OUBAALI VS. DONAIRE
Oubaali vs. Donaire will pit undefeated WBC Bantamweight World Champion Nordine Oubaali against future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire in a long-awaited 12-round championship showdown live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 29 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
 
In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature, hard-hitting contender Subriel Matías takes on undefeated Batyr Jukembayev in a 12-round IBF Junior Welterweight Title Eliminator, while unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell faces Jovanie Santiago in a 10-round super lightweight clash to open the telecast.
 
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions.
 
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

CHAD JOHNSON TRAINING CAMP QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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“I’m transitioning that flair you saw from me on the football field

all into this sport.”

Former NFL Star Wide Receiver Chad Johnson Makes Boxing Debut In an Exhibition Against Versatile Fighter Brian Maxwell on Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV® Undercard Sunday, June 6 from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens

Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions

HOUSTON – (May 26, 2021) – Former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson made a name for himself throughout his storied career by combining elite on-field production with highlight-reel celebrations and an outspokenness that made him a household name. Now, he will look to take that same formula into his boxing debut when he steps into the ring for an exhibition against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell on Sunday, June 6 as part of the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV event at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

In addition to bringing his brand of entertainment to the event, Johnson compared his own boxing style to one of the sport’s most unique fighters.

“I’m transitioning that flair you saw from me on the football field all into this sport,” said Johnson. “To me, my style is like Emanuel Augustus. Once I got those basic fundamentals down to a tee, I could add that trickery to my game.”

A long-time fan and student of the sweet science, Johnson never believed that he’d have this opportunity to box on this stage. However, once he received word from Mayweather and knew how long he’d have to prepare, he jumped on the chance presented.

“I never thought about stepping in the ring,” said Johnson. “I never thought there would be an opportunity to do so. But I love boxing. I’m friends with every boxer out there because I love and study all of it. I didn’t expect anything like this to happen. When Floyd called, the first thing I wanted to know, was how much time I had to prepare. Once I knew that I had enough time that I could look like myself in there, I knew I could pull it off.”

Always pushing the boundaries of what the public expects from athletes, Johnson will add another feather into what has been a remarkable career as an athlete and entertainer with this fight on June 6.

“This is a one-time thing,” said Johnson. “I’ve done some crazy things in life, and this is one to add and scratch off the bucket list. I’m coming in there to have fun and entertain.”

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ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. LOGAN PAUL

Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is a special exhibition bout presented by Mayweather Promotions, FANMIO and Mavathltcs that will take place on Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The telecast, which is being produced by SHOWTIME PPV, will air live beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and can be purchased now at SHOWTIME.com andFANMIO.com. The undercard will feature WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal vs. two-division world champion Badou Jack in a 12-round rematch, plus former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd against Luis Arias in a 10-round bout and in a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in an exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

For more information visit bit.ly/mayweatherpaul,  www.SHO.com/sports, www.FANMIO.com. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromo,@ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromotions, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO.

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

Featherweight Sensation Aaron Pico Meets Birmingham’s Aiden Lee During Main Card of BELLATOR 260 on Friday, June 11 – Live on SHOWTIME

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TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR BELLATOR’S FIRST FAN-ATTENDED EVENT STATESIDE IN OVER A YEAR

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LOS ANGELES — Today, BELLATOR MMA confirmed that No. 6 ranked featherweight Aaron Pico (7-3) has been added to the BELLATOR MMA 260: Lima vs. Amosov main card on Friday, June 11, where he will oppose grappling ace Aiden Lee (9-4), in a 145-pound bout. The fight will take place at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. and will be televised live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

BELLATOR 260 will be headlined by welterweight world champion Douglas Lima (32-8), who will defend his 170-pound title against the undefeated and top-ranked Yaroslav Amosov (25-0).

The event marks BELLATOR’s first fan-attended event in the United States since BELLATOR 239 took place on February 21, 2020. A limited number of tickets starting at $60 are available now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at Bellator.com.

Since his professional MMA debut in 2017, Aaron Pico has widely been considered one of the brightest prospects in the sport. The Jackson Wink fighter has showcased a wrestling acumen that stacks up with the best in the world, coupled with vicious punching power that has earned him stunning KO victories with both his left and right hand. The 24-year-old has shown steady growth each time out in the BELLATOR cage and is currently riding a three-fight winning streak.

Fighting for the first time on American soil, the 26-year-old Lee looks to secure his third straight victory inside the BELLATOR cage. An underrated submission specialist, the Englishman earned his fourth career victory via rear-naked choke against Damian Frankiewicz and a stunning head-kick knockout against Jeremy Petley in the first round of their matchup last September.

Additionally, a welterweight fight between BELLATOR veteran Kyle Crutchmer (6-1) and promotional debutant Levan Chokheli (9-0, 1 NC) has been added as a preliminary bout. Crutchmer, who trains out of AKA in San Jose, wrestled at Oklahoma State University, where he became a two-time All-American and two-time Big 12 champion. Meanwhile, Chokheli looks to keep his record flawless while making a sound first impression in his BELLATOR debut. The 24-year-old Georgian boasts an impressive 100% finishing rate, having never seen the final bell in all nine of his fights.

Also added to the preliminary card, “The Boogeyman,” Lance Wright (5-1) will be making his BELLATOR debut after an impressive showing on the American regional scene. He will be tasked with fighting Taylor “Tombstone” Johnson (6-2), a two-fight veteran of the BELLATOR cage.

All prelims will stream live at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV. Full bout listings are below.

BELLATOR MMA 260: Lima vs. Amosov Main Card:

Friday, June 11 – Live on SHOWTIME

9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT 

Welterweight World Title Main Event: c-Douglas Lima (32-8) vs. #1-Yaroslav Amosov (25-0)

175-pound Contract Weight Co-Main Event: #6–Paul Daley (43-17-2) vs. #3-Jason Jackson (14-4)

Featherweight Bout: #6-Aaron Pico (7-3) vs. Aiden Lee (9-4)

Welterweight Bout: Demarques Jackson (11-5) vs. Mark Lemminger (11-3)

Preliminary Card:

BELLATOR MMA YouTube Channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel | Pluto TV

5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT

Welterweight Bout: Kyle Crutchmer (6-1) vs. Levan Chokheli (9-0, 1 NC)

Featherweight Bout: #9-Tywan Claxton (6-2) vs. Justin Gonzales (11-0)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Newell (16-3) vs. Bobby King (9-3)

Featherweight Bout: Lucas Brennan (4-0) vs. Matthew Skibicki (4-3)

Featherweight Bout: Amanda Bell (7-7) vs. Marina Mokhnatkina (4-2)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Alex Polizzi (7-1) vs. Gustavo Trujillo (3-1)

Middleweight Bout: Taylor Johnson (6-2) vs. Lance Wright (5-1)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.