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Floyd Mayweather Las Vegas Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Mayweather vs. McGregor SHOWTIME PPV Event Saturday, Aug. 26 From T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas
 
Plus! Gervonta Davis, Badou Jack & Andrew Tabiti Quotes & Photos Ahead of Showdowns on PPV Undercard
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions
(Photos to be added shortly)
LAS VEGAS (August 10, 2017) – Floyd “Money” Mayweather opened up the Mayweather Boxing Club on Thursday for a media workout ahead of his highly anticipated matchup against UFC champion Conor McGregor on Saturday, Aug. 26 in the headlining attraction of a SHOWTIME PPV event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Joining Mayweather at the media workout were a trio of fighters competing under the Mayweather Promotions banner who enter the ring in undercard attractions on SHOWTIME PPV.
America’s youngest world champion, Gervonta “Tank” Davis will make the second defense of his world title against unbeaten challenger Francisco Fonseca while former world champion Badou Jack “The Ripper” is set to challenge 175-pound titleholderNathan Cleverly in his debut at light heavyweight.
The PPV event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undefeated rising cruiserweight contender Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti taking ontwo-time world champion Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham in a 10-round bout.
Here is what the participants had to say Thursday:
FLOYD MAYWEATHER
“I’ve been here before and I know what it takes. It’s my same old routine but I’m older now so I have to let the body rest a lot more. With age comes wisdom. When I was a lot younger I would just train and train and never let myself recuperate. When I come back from resting I come back rejuvenated and with a lot more spark.
“This isn’t just a fight; this is an event. We both owe the fans and everyone tuning in a lot of excitement. That’s what we’re there to give them.
“I know I’m going to face a warrior. It’s not for me to worry about what he does on a day-to-day basis. I have to worry about what I have to go out there and do. I have to execute the game plan. I’m not going to overlook him. That’s why I’m in here working extremely hard.
“When it’s all said and done it comes down to the two competitors. My dad can give me a brilliant game plan but he can’t get in there and fight for me. Same for Conor and his team. It doesn’t matter who the crowd’s rooting for, it’s two men in there.
“This training camp has been a lot different. I’ve spent some time in Miami and in Los Angeles training. I’ve been pushed really hard by the young guys in camp. I don’t need to post every workout video because I’ve been around this sport a long time and everyone knows what I can do.
“On paper we know he’s taller and has a long reach. He has youth on his side. People say that he has power on his side. I know that ring IQ and experience are in my favor. I have the fight knowledge on my side. We both have advantages.
“I know he’s going to come out and try to switch stances. He’ll come out southpaw then go the other way. But all that does is burn energy. Then I’m going to give him a look and give him some knowledge, and we’ll see what happens.
“Conor feels it’s not going to go past four rounds and I don’t think it’s going the distance. We’re both confident in our skills and we’ll see who gets it done.
“My opponent is always confident, but it’s different being in there with Floyd Mayweather. They realize that this is real. But for me, it’s just another day. That’s the mentality that has allowed me to stay undefeated.
“It’s been great to be in a position as a promoter to give knowledge to young fighters. It’s one of my ultimate goals to take a young fighter and make them a household name. I want to take fighters to the next level.”
GERVONTA DAVIS
“I’m feeling great. Being in the same ring and on the undercard of Floyd’s fight is amazing. I’ve worked hard to get to this point and I’m ready to put on a great show on August 26.
“Training has been sharp. I’ve been stopping a lot of guys in training. I can’t wait to get in the ring and give the fans a big knockout.
“Being on this card has been a big motivation in training. It feels great and I’m truly blessed to be in this position. I think the excitement that this card brings will be great for the sport of boxing. I’m ready to shine.
“I know I have a tough undefeated opponent who’s going to come in and try to take my belt and I have to take care of business. He has some decent power so I think it’s going to be an exciting fight.
“I’ve accomplished a lot at a young age. It’s all because of the hard work that I’ve put in for my entire life. I don’t complain, I just keep working every day.
“I’m ready to take full advantage of this chance I have. It’s just one step on a long road I see to the top of this sport.”
BADOU JACK
“Everything is great in training camp. I’ve been in training for about seven weeks getting ready for this matchup. I’m excited and happy to be a part of such a big event.
“I think this weight is going to be better for me. I’m going to have more power. I’ll be more athletic and style-wise I prefer to fight bigger guys. I can use my speed, but I also like to go inside and break my opponent down. It’s harder if I have to chase them, but the big guys are going to be right there.
“Cleverly has a high work rate and he’s very tough. He’s going to come to fight. That’s what we want. It’s a good first fight for me at this weight.
“I’m excited to work hard these next two weeks and get to fight night. He’s been in some good fights but I’m different than anyone he’s faced. I’ll show how my skills translate to light heavyweight.
“It’s really a blessing to be in this position. I’m happy because a lot of other fighters don’t get to be on this stage. I’m so thankful to my whole team. I won’t let the fans down and onAugust 26, I’m coming to steal the show.
“I’ve done everything right to get to this point. It’s an honor to be in this position. I just have to take care of business.”
ANDREW TABITI
“This is a huge deal to me. Floyd Mayweather is the biggest star in boxing and to be a part of everything that’s going on is a dream come true.
“I was really happy when I found out that I’d be fighting on this card. There aren’t really words for how blessed I am to be in this position.
“This fight means a lot to me. This is a chance for me to become the American face of cruiserweights just like Steve Cunningham was. I’m taking this very seriously and I have great respect for Steve Cunningham, but this is my time to take it.
“I’m ready to be a fresh face in the cruiserweight division. I’m going to give it everything I have. I’m humbled by this experience and I’m going to take advantage of it.
“I can’t wait to open the show. There’s a little added pressure being at the beginning of the PPV but I’m going to embrace it and put on a great performance.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“Floyd is a lot wiser now. He’s gotten smarter with age. He’s a young man who has an incredible vision and I have a great deal of respect for everything he’s done.
“The older you get, the harder it is to get things going in training. It’s taken Floyd a while to get in a groove, but he’s in a groove now.
“All of these records being broken are because of Floyd Mayweather. He’s been innovative and he always thinks outside the box. That’s why he’s had such tremendous success.
“We’ve been able to generate a great deal of interest in new avenues and bring Floyd to even more casual fans because of the boxing and MMA worlds colliding. This is going to be one of the biggest nights in sports entertainment history.
“Both guys are looking to knock each other out. I believe Conor McGregor when he says that he’s looking to knock Floyd out in the first four rounds. He hasn’t shown me anything to make me think differently. Floyd usually just goes and does his thing, but with some things that have happened recently, I think Floyd really wants to get him out of there.”
#          #          #
MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR
Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in the main event of an unprecedented four-fight pay-per-view boxing event.  Mayweather vs. McGregor takes place on Saturday, August 26 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  The event is produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and promoted by Mayweather Promotions.
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports and www.t-mobilearena.com, follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @TheNotoriousMMA, @MayweatherPromo, @UFC, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions,www.Facebook.com/SHOSports andwww.Facebook.com/UFC
boxing, Fox, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UFC

Exciting Former World Champion Shawn Porter Meets  Former Title Challenger Thomas Dulorme in Welterweight Battle That Headlines Mayweather vs. McGregor Preliminary Bouts on FOX & FOX Deportes

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Plus! A Battle Between Unbeaten Prospects Juan Heraldez &
Jose Miguel Borrego in the Co-Feature
 
Saturday, August 26 From T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas
FOX & FOX Deportes Begins Live at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT
Four-Fight SHOWTIME PPV Telecast Begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT
 
LAS VEGAS (August, 10, 2017) – Former world champion and top welterweight contender “Showtime” Shawn Porter (27-2-1, 17 KOs) will take on former title challenger Thomas Dulorme (24-2, 18 KOs) in a 10-round showdown that headlines Mayweather vs. McGregor preliminary bouts presented by Mayweather Promotions live on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, Aug. 26 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
“As always I’m just excited to get in the ring and perform,” said Porter. “I think fighting on network television again will be awesome and a huge opportunity for me. And to do it before one of the most anticipated sporting events ever is even more exciting. I feel like I’ve earned this spot and I’m ready to give the people the appetizer they deserve! ‘Showtime’ Shawn Porter never disappoints and I will prove that again on August 26.”
“I’m thankful for this opportunity on August 26,” said Dulorme. “I have been blessed with great fans and my last fight helped me to gain a little more recognition, but I am just getting started. I had a great performance back in January with a TKO victory, and this fight I plan to bring that same mindset into the ring. I am ready to win and to fight on Floyd Mayweather’s card is a blessing. I have a great team behind me and I am confident. I know my opponent is tough, but he’s just the opponent I need to really show everyone that I am even tougher.”
Saturday’s coverage begins on FOX and FOX Deportes with a one-hour Prefight Show at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT. Prelims on FOX and FOX Deportes begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and leads directly into the Mayweather vs. McGregor event that willbe produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV beginning at9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Action on FOX and FOX Deportes will include a 10-round super lightweight bout between unbeaten prospects Juan Heraldez (12-0, 8 KOs) and Jose Miguel Borrego (13-0, 12 KOs).
“After my last fight, I gained a lot of inspiration to show more to my fans,” said Heraldez. “I’m bringing the best Juan Heraldez to this fight. My last few performances have been great, and I’ve shown that I can have the power to knock my opponents out. I’m familiar with my opponent, but truthfully he’s not a factor and on fight night my 0 will not go.”
“This is a great chance for me to continue to show that I have the skills to be a future world champion,” said Borrego. “I’m going to leave everything in the ring and put on a great show for the fans like I always do. I respect my opponent and I think this will be a great fight, but I will end the night victorious.”
“The fans are in for a show,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Not only do we have an amazing lineup of fights on our PPV telecast, we have a stacked undercard and plan to give the fans more. More fights, more access. We plan to get the fans excitement brewing with matchups like Dulorme vs. Porter and Heraldez vs. Borrego all on network TV. These are some even matchups and we are happy to have FOX and FOX Deportes on board to showcase this talent ahead of the grand finale that is, Mayweather vs. McGregor.”
A physically gifted fighter who had a strong amateur career, Porter became the WBC’s number one contender with a stoppage of Andre Berto in April after a close loss to unified champion Keith Thurman in June 2016 that garnered unanimous Fight of the Year consideration. The 29-year-old won a welterweight world title when he defeated Devon Alexander in 2013 in Brooklyn before defending the title with a dominant stoppage of Paulie Malignaggi. The Akron, Ohio-native now lives and trains in Las Vegas and he bounced back from a previous defeat to Kell Brook to knockout Erick Bone and earn a unanimous over four-division world champion Adrien Broner in 2015.
Representing Puerto Rico, by way of French Guiana, Dulorme last fought in January when he stopped Brian Jones in the sixth-round to pick up his second straight win after the 27-year-old had previously challenged Terrence Crawford for a vacant world title in 2015. Prior to his title opportunity, Dulorme picked up impressive victories over Hank Lundy, Karim Mayfield and DeMarcus Corley. He will look to make a big statement on his way to another world title opportunity with a win against Porter.
Unbeaten and fighting out of Las Vegas under the Mayweather Promotions banner, Heraldez is unbeaten since turning pro in 2009, including a successful 2017 debut that saw him go eight rounds for the first time as he dropped Alfonso Olvera on his way to a unanimous decision. The 27-year-old earned five victories from 2015 through 2016 and will have an opportunity to make a statement against his toughest opponent to date onAugust 26.
At just 19-years-old, Borrego has burst onto the scene displaying big knockout power as he made his U.S. debut in February with a first round stoppage and followed it by stopping John Delperdang in the seventh-round of a televised contest this April. Fighting out of Aguascalientes, Mexico, Borrego most recently scored a fourth-round stoppage of once-beaten Kevin Watts in June and enters this contest on an 11-fight knockout streak.
The undercard bouts in the arena will kick-off with 2016 Great Britain Olympian Savannah Marshall making her pro debut in a four-round super middleweight attraction. The 26-year-old from Hartlepool, England was an Amateur World Champion, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist and the only boxer to have ever defeated two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields.
For more information: visit http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage, www.foxdeportes.com and www.t-mobilearena.com. Follow on Twitter @MayweatherPromo, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/foxsports,www.facebook.com/foxdeportesand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
boxing, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UFC

TWO WORLD TITLE FIGHTS INCLUDING AMERICA’S YOUNGEST WORLD CHAMPION GERVONTA DAVIS FACING FRANCISCO FONSECA ANNOUNCED FOR MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR SHOWTIME PPV®UNDERCARD

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Badou Jack Challenges 175-Pound Champ Nathan Cleverly & Undefeated Andrew Tabiti Takes on Two-Time World Champion Steve Cunningham In Trio Of High-Stakes Matchups Preceding
Mayweather vs. McGregor Main Event
 
Saturday, Aug. 26 Live on SHOWTIME PPV at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
From T-Mobile Arena In Las Vegas
 
LAS VEGAS (August 10, 2017) – Two world championship fights including a title defense by America’s youngest world champion are part of the trio of high stakes matchups on the Mayweather vs. McGregor SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, Aug. 26 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Mayweather Promotions.
The four-fight SHOWTIME PPV event, beginning live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, is headlined by the unprecedented super welterweight matchup between boxing’s undefeated all-time great Floyd Mayweather and UFC superstar Conor McGregor.  In the co-featured bout, undefeated rising star Gervonta “Tank” Davis will make the second defense of his IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship against undefeated challenger Francisco Fonseca as the 22-year-old looks to continue his reign as the youngest current champion from the U.S.
WBA Light Heavyweight Titlist Nathan Cleverly will defend his title against former 168-pound world champion Badou Jack “The Ripper”, who is stepping up in weight and into this world title tilt.
The pay-per-view telecast will open with undefeated rising cruiserweight contenderAndrew “The Beast” Tabiti taking ontwo-time world champion Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham in a 10-round bout for the USBA cruiserweight title.
“What a night this will be for fight fans,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Not only will they witness a first of its kind main event, but they will also see two incredible world title fights, as Mayweather Promotions’ very own current and former world champions go head-to-head in separate bouts. Gervonta Davis is nothing short of pure boxing talent with dynamite power.  Former super middleweight world champion Badou Jack is making his light heavyweight debut, and looking to take the title away from a tough and experienced Nathan Cleverly.  But first, Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti will open the pay-per-view telecast with what I expect to be a magnificent performance.  This diverse card is an epic, international affair stacked with talent.  Make sure you don’t miss the biggest event the sport has ever seen.”
“This undercard includes three meaningful matches featuring fighters we’ve seen develop over the years on SHOWTIME,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports.  “Gervonta Davis has fast-tracked himself to stardom on this network, we’ve seen Badou Jack develop from prospect to champion, and we’re now witnessing similar growth with Andrew Tabiti.  We’re excited to watch them compete in tough, competitive matchups on this global stage.”
Gervonta Davis vs. Francisco Fonseca – IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship
One of the fastest-rising young stars in the sport, Davis (18-0, 17 KOs) became the youngest reigning champion from the U.S. when he knocked out Jose Pedraza in January to capture the IBF 130-pound crown. The 22-year-old made his first title defense in style when he went to London and stopped Liam Walsh in May. Both bouts aired live on SHOWTIME.  Representing Baltimore, Davis won the 2012 National Golden Gloves championship and scored knockouts in his first eight fights after turning pro in 2013. He enters this matchup on a streak of nine-straight fights that have ended with a knockout victory.
“I’m really excited to fight as the co-main event on the biggest card in combat sports history,” said Davis. “I plan to put on a great show for everyone in attendance in Las Vegas and for those who purchase the PPV. I want to thank my team for this incredible opportunity. I’m ready for Floyd Mayweather to pass his torch to me. To my fans, I appreciate all of you. Support me and I’ll fight for you!”
Fighting out of San Ramon, Costa Rica, Fonseca (19-0-1, 13 KOs) has won 19 straight fights after turning pro with a majority draw in 2013. Fonseca quickly established himself as one of the top fighters from his country with victory after victory, including a fourth-round knockout of Luis Gonzlaez to capture a regional 130-pound belt last August. The 23-year-old will make his U.S. debut when he faces Davis and he enters this contest having won his last five bouts inside of the distance. Fonseca began his 2017 with a third round knockout of Eliecer Lanzas in March and is trained by two-time world champion Ivan Calderon.
“I am super grateful for this great opportunity,” said Fonseca. “The dream of every young boxer is to fight for the world title and this opportunity comes at the best moment of my career and in the biggest in the history of this sport. I will beat Gervonta Davis and I will shock the world that night.”
Nathan Cleverly vs. Badou Jack – WBA Light Heavyweight World Championship
A two-time world champion at light heavyweight, Cleverly (30-3, 16 KOs) bounced back from a defeat to Andrzej Fonfara in a 2015 Fight of the Year contender to defeat hometown champ Juergen Braehmer last October to pick up his WBA title. Cleverly’s previous title reign saw him take down the likes of Tony Bellew, Nadjib Mohammedi, Shawn Hawk and Tommy Karpency before dropping a contest to Sergey Kovalev. The Wales resident will make his fourth start in the U.S., having won two of his first three contests stateside.
“This is a fight I have wanted ever since Badou Jack moved to light heavyweight and I’m delighted to fight in Vegas on an event like this,” said Cleverly. “I’ve trained long and hard for this fight and I’m ready to be let off the leash. This is the biggest fight of my career so far and I’m going to do a number on Badou Jack on August 26.”
Now fighting in the 175-pound division, Jack’s final fight at 168 pounds came in a title unification on SHOWTIME in January against James DeGale.  Jack (21-1-2, 12 KOs) shook off an early knockdown to floor DeGale in the final round in a close majority draw in which both fighters retained their belts. The 2008 Olympian from Gambia won his world title in 2015 by defeating then unbeaten Anthony Dirrell and defended the belt against current champion George Groves and former champion Lucian Bute. The 33-year-old is unbeaten in his last six bouts as he seeks a world title in a second weight class.
“I’m thankful for this opportunity and I’m excited about getting another shot at a world title,” said Jack. “To be a part of this event and fighting on this card is historic. Nothing beats it. I’m excited to get back in the ring. I’m getting ready to take that belt, and win a title in my second weight class. The biggest difference between past training camps and preparing for this fight is the fact that I was training to get the weight down, now I’m training to build muscle and perfect my boxing strategy. This will be a tough fight, but I don’t see any issues getting through it. I feel confident and fans can expect a win by knockout or decision. He’s not leaving with that belt. It’s staying right here in Las Vegas.”
Andrew Tabiti vs. Steve Cunningham – 10 Round Cruiserweight Bout
Originally from Chicago but fighting out of Las Vegas, Tabiti (14-0, 12 KOs) recorded victories against previously unbeaten fighters Keith Tapia and Quantis Graves in his last two outings – both on ShoBox: The New Generation – as he works to solidify himself as a contender in the red hot cruiserweight division. The 27-year-old turned pro in 2013 after amassing a solid 32-6 amateur record and scored knockout victories in his first 10 fights. He’ll battle his most experienced opponent to date when he faces the multiple-time champion Cunningham.
“I’ve always been dedicated when it comes to training and this camp has been no different,” said Tabiti. “I know I am fighting a veteran who has a lot of experience, so I can’t slack on my conditioning and training. He’s tough and he’s only been stopped once and that was when he moved up in weight to heavyweight, so it would be a big statement for me to stop him. This fight is a test for me. Anytime you get in the ring you never really know how things will pan out, but I have a great team. To the fans, expect a victory and a great fight on August 26th because I am going to make sure I come out on top.”
Representing the great fight city of Philadelphia, Cunningham (29-8-1, 13 KOs) returned to action in March with a victory over Felipe Romero after an exciting challenge of cruiserweight champion Krzysztof Glowacki in April 2016. Twice a world champion as a cruiserweight, he defeated Krzysztof Wlodarczyk in 2006 to capture his belt before successfully defending his title against Marco Huck via a twelfth-round TKO. He became a world champion again in 2010 when he stopped Troy Ross in the fifth round. The experienced veteran also owns victories over previously unbeaten fighters Amir Mansour and Natu Visinia and scored a knockdown of Tyson Fury in a losing effort during their 2013 bout.
“This is one of the biggest cards of the decade and its mind blowing to be a part of it,” said Cunningham. “I have to top it off with a victory. Taking on a good, undefeated young prospect is a challenge in itself, but a victory will prove age is just a number. Hard work is a part of my everyday life.”
#          #          #
MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR
Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in the main event of an unprecedented four-fight pay-per-view boxing event.  Mayweather vs. McGregor takes place on Saturday, August 26 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  The event is produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and promoted by Mayweather Promotions.
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports and www.t-mobilearena.com, follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @TheNotoriousMMA, @MayweatherPromo, @UFC, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions,www.Facebook.com/SHOSports andwww.Facebook.com/UFC
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

TEAM SHIELDS CONGRATULATES BOXING’S NEWEST SUPERSTAR, CLARESSA SHIELDS, FOR WINNING UNIFIED WORLD TITLES IN FOURTH PRO FIGHT

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DETROIT (August 8, 2017) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields became the unified WBC and IBF World Super Middleweight Champion last Friday night with a dominant fifth-round TKO of now former champion Nikki Adler.
 
Fighting in front of her home state fans at MGM Grand Detroit and in the main event of a nationally televised ShoBox: The New Generation, Shields put on a display of skills and power seldom seen by a first-time world-title challenger. Without any answers to the level of talent in front of her, Adler was forced to cover up and withstand the blazing speed of Shields’ fists for five one-sided rounds.
 
A driven competitor, Shields is on a mission to become the GWOAT (Greatest Woman of All Time) and the performance against Adler has the entire world watching. Four fights into her professional career and Shields is already the face of women’s boxing.
 
“It was a dream come true to win two world title belts in one night!” said Shields. “I was very proud of my performance, and I can’t wait to defend my belts and then give Christina Hammer her first defeat.”
 
For Team Shields, the victory was more than could ever be asked for from their young fighter.
 
“Congratulations to a unified world champion Claressa Shields!” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “In less than a year as a pro, she has already achieved what no other woman has done in the sport. America’s first two-time Olympic Gold Medalist has become a professional unified world champion in just her fourth professional fight! Congratulations also to the great team behind her: long-time trainer Jason Crutchfield, Berston Field House, and to her managers who work diligently behind the scenes Mark Taffet and Jamie Fritz.  I and everyone at SP is proud and excited to be part of this exciting journey of a lady who is on a quest to be GWOAT!”
 
Shields co-manager, Mark Taffet, a long-time TV exec in boxing, says he’s never seen a performance like the one Shields turned in against Adler. “Claressa Shields’ win over Nikki Adler was the most dominant performance I have ever seen in a championship fight, male or female. She is staking her claim to be GWOAT in spectacular fashion. Claressa is carrying women’s boxing forward on her broad shoulders.”
 
Having fought three times this year already, winning two regional and two world title belts along the way, Shields says she will take some time to enjoy her historic accomplishments before plotting the next move with her team.
boxing, Showtime

R.I.P. EARL FASH

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From Tonight’s ShoBox: The New Generation Telecast: http://s.sho.com/2wga7G6

 

All of us at SHOWTIME are saddened to confirm the passing of our long-time friend and colleague, Earl Fash. Earl worked at SHOWTIME from 1982 where he began in the mailroom. He earned his way up the professional ranks over a remarkable 35-year career to become a pillar of the network’s sports team.  As Vice President, Creative Director for SHOWTIME Sports, Earl oversaw promotional materials, feature segments and Emmy® Award winning full-length series. Earl’s legacy is one of loyalty, kindness and genuine happiness. Our thoughts are with his wife and two sons, and his many friends at SHOWTIMEwho are devastated by his passing.

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

NIKKI ADLER vs. CLARESSA SHIELDS FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR TOMORROW/FRIDAY, AUG. 4 SHOBOX DOUBLEHEADER 

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Live on SHOWTIME® at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT from MGM Grand Detroit

 

“The game plan is simple: Win the fight.” – Nikki Adler

 

“I think I can get her out in six rounds.” – Claressa Shields

 

Click HERE To Download Weigh-In Photos; Credit Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

DETROIT (Aug. 3, 2017) – WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler and hometown favorite, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields officially made weight on Thursday, one day before they headline a doubleheader tomorrow/Friday, Aug. 4 on ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® (10:30 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from MGM Grand Detroit.

 

Shields (3-0, 1 KO) tipped the scales at 165 ¼ pounds with the champion Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany coming in at 166 pounds even. In the ShoBox co-feature, world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (15-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Jesse Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) of Fort Worth, Texas, in an eight-round bout. Both fighters weighed in at 123 ¼ pounds.

 

Shields’ good friend and newly crowned UFC Featherweight World ChampionCris “Cyborg” Justino was on hand Thursday and will walk Shields into the ringon Friday. Also in attendance at the weigh-in was a potential future Shields’ opponent, five-time world champion Christina Hammer, who is undefeated at 21-0 and currently holds the WBC and WBO Middleweight titles.

 

Justino and Hammer met with the media in a forum moderated by Shields’ co-manager Mark Taffet before the weigh-in.

 

“I never thought it would happen, that the sports of MMA and boxing would come together like it has with the upcoming Mayweather-McGregor fight,” said Justino, the former Strikeforce and Invicta FC champion. “I think it’s great and incredible and could possibly open the door for other fights between the sports.”

 

“I’m looking forward to watching Claressa win the fight tomorrow night,” said Hammer. “I want to see her keep winning so we can fight one day. I only want to fight the best and she seems to be one of the best.”

 

Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available atwww.ticketmaster.com.

 

Programming Note: Episode 2 of ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. McGregor will air Friday night before the ShoBox telecast at 10 p.m. ET/PT. To watch an exclusive clip of the episode, click here: http://s.sho.com/2u8OxWK.

 

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS:

Nikki Adler: 166 Pounds

Claressa Shields: 165¼ Pounds

 

Vladimir Tikhonov: 123¼ Pounds

Jesse Angel Hernandez: 123¼ Pounds

  

FINAL QUOTES:

 

NIKKI ADLER:

“This fight is very big in Germany, and I know there will be a lot of eye on me. It will be 4:30 in the morning, but there will be live streaming and viewing parties.

 

“I’m going to be defensive in the early going and know that Claressa is going to come forward. I want to get the fight into the later rounds. It’s 10 rounds of boxing and there will be lots of action.

 

“I know I will be tough to knock out and have no plans of going down. Claressa has gotten all the hype so far and she wants to put on a show for her fans. I’m going to do everything I can to send those fans home upset after I beat her and carry those belts out of the ring.

 

“This is my second fight with my trainer Rene [Friese]. I wanted to train with the best and I need a trainer who had worked with the top fighters.

 

“My trainer has really been stressing strategies. We have a lot of them. The game plan is simple: Win the fight.

 

“Fighting for the first time in the United States is going to be amazing. I’ve only fought in Russia and Germany, so to be here in a main event on SHOWTIME is really special.”

 

CLARESSA SHIELDS:

“I feel like I’m a lot healthier and hydrated than I did fighting at 160. I’m not sluggish. I used a chef who prepared my meals for the first time and I feel great.

 

“I’ve known about Nikki Adler and Christina Hammer for a long time. I like both of the girls, but when it comes to getting in the ring it’s all about business.

 

“Technically I see that [Nikki] is very poised and calm. She’s patient, but not too patient.

 

“Even though she may be the bigger fighter, I know I’m the aggressor. I think I can get her out in six rounds.

 

“Of course everyone wants to get the big knockout, but I haven’t found the right punch that gets the girls knocked out. I’m young so I know it will come.

 

“I’m glad Cyborg is here to support me. She hits hard and we’ve sparred. She’s strong and she is fast. She’s picked up a lot from me, and I’ve learned from her. She’s the most feared MMA fighter, and I’m most feared in boxing. So it’s great for both women’s sports.”

 

VLADIMIR TIKHONOV:

“This is my first time ever in America. I’m pretty impressed with it. There’s so much to do and see, but I can’t let distractions get in the way.

 

“I’ve been here for about a month training at Kronk Gym. Russian fighters are known for being very disciplined, and we know the opportunity that is in front of us. There is no room for slip ups and to get lazy. This is my big shot and I’m going to take advantage of it.

 

“The sparring has been the biggest thing. I’ve been sparring with pros and amateurs. It’s so much more powerful here and the variety is something I would never get at home.

 

“I can box and I can brawl. Whatever I have to do to get the win.”

 

JESSE HERNANDEZ:

“I had a layoff of about five years and worked construction jobs because I had to pay the bills, but now I’m back and focused on boxing.

 

“In the past I’ve been known to be too aggressive, so I’m going to try and slow things down and be a more tactical boxer.

 

“I have six brothers who were professional boxers and I’ve learned from them. My nickname is ‘The One’ because now I’m the only left fighting.

 

“I’m the youngest of 15 children, all with the same parents. We are a very close family.

 

“I’m a natural right-hander and I’m ready to fight a lefty like Tikhonov. I’ve fought some southpaws and I’ve been sparring with lefties.

 

“He’s undefeated for a reason. I don’t think he’s been in there with someone as tough as I am; as aggressive as I am.”

 

RENE FRIESE, Adler’s trainer

“We came all the way over here to bring home the belts back to Germany.

 

“We have our plan and our strategy in place. We are ready for this fight.”

 

JASON CRUTCHFIELD, Shields’ trainer

“There hasn’t been much smack talking for this fight. I told her you need to let your fists do your talking. Your mouth can’t help you in the ring.

 

“We are ready for 10 rounds. I’m not going to say it’s hard; it’s doable. It’s her first time doing it. We’ve trained for it and she’s been 10 rounds in training three or four times.”

 

# # #

 

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

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Closed Circuit Tickets Available Now for Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor Showdown Saturday, Aug. 26

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Closed Circuit Locations Available at MGM Resorts International Properties Along The Strip
 
LAS VEGAS (August 2, 2017) – Closed circuit tickets for the blockbuster summer matchup between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor are available ahead of theSaturday, Aug. 26 SHOWTIME PPV® event taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Tickets for the Mayweather vs. McGregor closed circuit telecast at ARIA Resort & Casino, Bellagio Resort & Casino, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, The Mirage Hotel & Casino, Monte Carlo Resort and Casino, New York-New York Hotel & Casino, Luxor Hotel and Casino and Excalibur Hotel & Casino are priced at $150, not including applicable fees and are now on sale. Party Packages including food & beverage options also are available at select viewing locations beginning at $99. To purchase closed circuit package tickets at ARIA, Bellagio and MGM Grand call 855-329-2260. Tickets for all other locations may be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, in-person at any MGM Resorts International Box Office or by phone with a major credit card at 1-800-745-3000.
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SHOWTIME SPORTS® LAUNCHES OFFICIAL MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR PPV COMMERCIAL SPOT

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Feat. Multi-platinum Recording Artist Aloe Blacc’s new song “King Is Born”

 

 

* * * Watch, Share, Embed: http://s.sho.com/2h0w090 * * *

 

Four weeks before the August 26 showdown between legendary boxing champion Floyd “Money” Mayweather and UFC ® champion “The Notorious” Conor McGregor, SHOWTIME Sports® has released the official 30-second commercial spot set to the newly-released track from GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum XIX / Interscope recording artist Aloe Blacc, “King is Born”.

 

Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in an unprecedented event that takes place Saturday, August 26 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  The event telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV® and promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

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MIKEY GARCIA OUTPOINTS ADRIEN BRONER BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MAIN EVENT SATURDAY  ON SHOWTIME®  FROM  BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

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Jermall Charlo KO’s Jorge Sebastian Heiland in Four Rounds In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Co-Feature
Catch The Replay Monday At 10:30 p.m. ET/PT On 
SHOWTIME EXTREME® 
Click HERE for Photos; Credit Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos: Credit Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
BROOKLYN (July 30, 2017) – Three-division world champion Mikey Garcia kept his undefeated record intact with a dominant 12-round performance against four-division world champion Adrien Broner in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, Saturday on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.
In what could be considered one of the best performances of his career, Garcia (37-0, 30 KO’s) won a unanimous decision by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice.
“We trained for 10 weeks, we had a great training camp and great sparring, we knew it was going to be a tough fight,” Garcia said.
Garcia took the lead early on, showcasing fundamentally sound technique and backing Broner into the ropes midway through the second frame. A flurry of body shots put Broner in trouble in the second round. While Broner was able to stay on his feet, Garcia emerged with another round in his favor.
“I think I controlled the fight in the early rounds and I kept the activity up,” Garcia said. “Broner is a great fighter and he has great skills but I was the superior fighter tonight.”
Garcia showed a combination of jabs, power punches and body shots all night long. He cornered Broner on the ropes with a huge left hook halfway through the third frame, and backed him in to the ropes again with 39 seconds remaining in the round.  While Broner showed some movement in the fourth round and hit Garcia with a succession of 1-2 combinations, Garcia’s bodywork kept Broner at bay.
“It was part of the strategy to be a little busier in this fight than in the fights I have previously had,” Garcia said.
Broner (33-3, 24 KOs) looked to get back in the fight as he started the eighth round with a succession of sharp combinations, however his lack of consistency couldn’t withstand Garcia’s phenomenal body shots and overall punch output. Through eight rounds, Garcia had thrown a total of 500 punches, while Broner had just thrown 291.
“It was a good fight at the end of the day, I come to fight I come to win and I put my heart on the line,” Broner said. “But it was Tom & Jerry; I had to catch the mouse.”
Although Garcia had amassed an early lead from the first three-quarters of the fight, Broner continued to walk through heavy fire from Garcia in an attempt to connect with a big punch and change the tide of the fight. While he was able to ignite the crowd and land several big punches over the final three rounds, none of it proved to be enough to slow down Garcia.
“It was my timing, I’ve always said I have very good timing,” said Garcia. “It is underestimated when you are outside the ring but once you get inside the ring with me, I’m a step ahead.”
Undefeated Jermall Charlo (26-0, 20 KOs) made his debut at 160-pounds with a stoppage of Argentine contender Jorge Sebastian Heiland (29-5-2, 16 KOs) in the co-featured event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. The stoppage came at 2:13 of the fourth round after Charlo delivered a devastating left hook followed by a big right to end the fight.
Charlo, of Houston, Texas, dominated the pace from the beginning. He landed the sharper and more accurate punches throughout the fight, especially in the first round where he landed 50 percent of his power shots to Heiland’s 13 percent. Charlo’s straight right was his power weapon throughout the contest.
“I felt good at this weight. I was in good shape all camp,” said Charlo. “I just had to keep my composure in the ring. That’s always something I have to work on and I was able to do it.
“After I dropped him the first time they said he fell on top of his ankle. That’s just part of the boxing game. I had to just stay consistent and get the work done.”
Heiland, of Buenos Aires, Argentina, had issues with his left leg after injuring his knee in the first round. His discomfort was clear in his awkward footwork and lack of power behind his punches. Referee Benjy Esteves had the doctor examine him twice throughout the fight, once before the third round and then again before the fourth.
“I turned my left knee in the first round, but I did not want to give up,” said Heiland. “I tried to give it my all, but it was not my night. I had bad luck but I am going to work harder than ever to get back and get another opportunity to achieve my dream and win a world title.”
Charlo stayed focused on his game plan despite seeing his opponent injured. “Sometimes the injury can be a decoy, you never want to just jump in and think it’s part of his game plan,” Charlo said. “My coach told me to stay behind my jab like I did; continue to work and it’s going to come.”
With this win, Charlo becomes a mandatory challenger for the WBC Middleweight World Championship.
“I’m ready for anyone. I’m ready for whoever wants to fight me,” Charlo added. “Bring on the biggest names at 160. I’m the real Tommy Hearns. I feel it’s my turn and I’m going to go get it.”
Headlining the “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims,” heavyweight Jarrell Miller (19-0-1, 17 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y., stopped former world title challenger Gerald Washington (18-2-1, 12 KOs) after eight-rounds.
Miller used his significant size advantage and effective power-punching to break down the former collegiate football player. Washington had some success early with his jab and body attack, but was not able to stay out of punching range of Miller
Washington surged in the sixth round with a series of power shots that staggered Miller, however the Brooklynite countered and further broke down Washington, who landed just 20% of his jabs overall.
Miller, who landed almost half of his power punches, continued the onslaught in the seventh and eight rounds, and while Washington was able to stay on his feet, he took enough punishment that his corner called the fight after the eighth round.
“I definitely felt the ring rust,” said Miller, who was making his third appearance on SHOWTIME. “Gerald was very tough. It was a very good fight that had me thinking. My power was there, but I couldn’t put it together the way I wanted to today.
“I took the hard way back coming in off of a layoff. Gerald definitely pushed me and motivated me. I had to rely on my brain and my power.
“I knew there would be a give and take in this fight. It’s one thing to fight when you have stamina, it’s another to fight when you’re tired. I was trying to outthink him.”
In the opening bout of “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims” on Facebook Live, Irish sensation Katie Taylor (6-0, 4 KOs) stopped Jasmine Clarkson (4-9) after three rounds of action in the latter fighter’s U.S. debut.
The Olympic Gold medalist was dominant from the outset, stalking her opponent around the ring and consistently trapping her in the corner. Taylor was effective with both hands and did most of her work to the head of Clarkson. After three rounds of damage, Clarkson’s corner stopped the bout and gave Taylor her first stateside win as a pro.
“It was a fantastic experience being my first time competing here in the U.S,” said Taylor. “There were definitely some nerves before the fight. It was great to go in there and get a stoppage.
“I hope that I made some fans tonight. I loved hearing the Irish fans in the crowd. I hope that there will be even more next time I fight here. The more fights I have here in the U.S. the better.
“I thought I performed pretty well. I definitely got caught with a few silly shots. I could have been cleaner but overall it was a good performance. I felt good and strong. I’ll be ready to get back in there as soon as possible.”
Additional action saw former world champion Rau’shee Warren (15-2, 4 KOs) earn a unanimous decision victory over former champion McJoe Arroyo (17-2, 8 KOs) and became the mandatory challenger for the IBF Junior Bantamweight World Title.
Warren attacked the body throughout the bout and landed the cleaner, more effective punches over the 12-round contest. The judges concurred and gave him the decision by scores of 118-10 and 117-111 twice.
“I would give myself a B+ for that performance,” said Warren. “I wanted to make sure to use my jab and I felt like it really helped me win the fight.
“I feel really good at this weight. Now it’s time for me to go get a strap. I haven’t been at this weight since the Olympics. I want to get these titles and then go down to 112 pounds for another title. First I want to take care of Jerwin Ancajas.”
Saturday’s fights will replay on Sunday, July 30 at 8:35 a.m. ET on SHOWTIME and on Monday, July 31 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME on DEMAND® and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®.
#          #          #
ABOUT BRONER vs. GARCIA
Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia is a 12-round super lightweight showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME. Broner vs. Garcia is presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®. PBC was sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina and this event was promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MikeyGarcia, @AdrienBroner, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, , www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionsand www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment
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Q&A WITH CLARESSA SHIELDS

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TWO-TIME OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST, FIGHTING FOR FIRST WORLD TITLE NEXT WEEK, SOUNDS OFF ON OPPONENT NIKKI ADLER AND RISING CELEBRITY STATUS
DETROIT (July 28, 2017) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (3-0, 1 KO) says she’s in the shape of her life to take on reigning WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany next Friday, August 4, at the MGM Grand Detroit.
 
Shields will challenge for her first world title in the 10-round main event of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” event, which will be televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10:30 p.m. ET/PT).
 
Shields says she’s not rattled by Adler’s recent remarks, that the United States should be ready for their golden girl to taker her first loss. In fact, she’s never rattled. She also gives her thoughts on her recent Twitter war with another top female fighter.
 
Give me your thoughts on Nikki Adler’s remarks about the US being ready for her to beat you. 
 
Nikki has to pump herself up, so she will say a lot the week of the fight. The US is ready alright… ready for its 2x Olympic gold medal winner to win her first pro world title!
 
Does it intimidate you or make you train harder when an opponent talks this way?
 
I’ve never been intimidated by anyone. I have had worse things said to me, I was gonna punish Nikki whether she talked trash or not. 
 
Talk to me about the pressure surrounding this fight. You’re going for your first world title so early with the entire world watching. 
 
I always have the entire world watching. Some people want me to win and some want the opposite! But I know what I can do, I’m just going to do it and dominate like always. No pressure! 
 
Tell me about winning all these awards and coming even further to the forefront of national celebrity. 
 
Winning awards is great; being recognized and respected is great also. I’ve done something that no other person in America has done, I’m the GWOAT! 
 
Do you do anything different in training for a world title fight?
 
Yes, you focus more, recover more, spar more rounds, and drink plenty of water! I’ve never been more ready!
 
Do you believe Nikki Adler has never watched you fight? 
 
No, I don’t believe she hasn’t ever watched me fight. That’s all mind games! She wants me to believe that. But in all honesty, nothing on the internet can help her in a fight against me! 
 
Do you dislike her now? 
 
(Laughs) Dislike is for emotional females! I love her! I’m gonna kick her ass! And give her a big thank you after.
 
Tell me about your Twitter feud with (fellow top female boxer) Layla McCarter. What’s going on there? 
 
Layla McCarter talks too much. For no reason. I didn’t have a problem with her at first, but she just upset because I say I’m P4P! And it’s the truth. She is just in denial! One minute she supports me and the next she is coming at me. In her interview after she beat Szabados, a girl I TKO’d in the fourth round previous, she says she can come to 160 and beat me. Then whenever I get props, or recognition, there she is again just saying slick stuff. I had to let her have it. 
 
What will your philosophy be as world champion if you win?
 
I don’t do ‘ifs.’ WHEN I become world champion, my philosophy will be to be so great that even your enemies will start to love me. God has been my rock for many years. He says ‘be humble to him,’ which I am! But I don’t have to be humble to man when I speak about my God-given ability.
 
To open the telecast, undefeated world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight tough rounds between southpaws.
 
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They are available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 69 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Errol Spence Jr. and more.