Category Archives: Showtime

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Undefeated Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Defends Against Undefeated Irish Star Carl Frampton on Saturday, July 30 Live on SHOWTIME® in an Event Presented by Premier Boxing Champions From Barclays Center in Brooklyn

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 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Telecast Begins at

9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

 

Tickets on Sale Tomorrow, June 15 at 10 a.m.!

 

BROOKLYN (June 14, 2016) – Undefeated featherweight world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz (32-0-1, 18 KOs) and fellow unbeaten Irish star Carl “The Jackal” Frampton (22-0, 14 KOs) will meet with a world title and two perfect records at stake on Saturday, July 30 in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins live on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Cyclone Promotions, start at $38 and go on sale tomorrow, June 15 at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

Santa Cruz and Frampton collide in a battle of world champions who mix dizzying speed with incredible output that produces exciting fight after exciting fight. This fight will be the fifth featherweight world title fight presented by SHOWTIME in 2016. Frampton, a unified world champion at 122 pounds, a weight class Santa Cruz previously held a title at, will move up a notch in weight and challenge at 126 pounds.

 

“I’ve never been to New York before and I’m looking forward to this big opportunity to put on a show for new fans in a new city,” said Santa Cruz. “I always fight for the fans and I’m excited to be able to do that somewhere I haven’t been before. Frampton is a good fighter. He has power and skills and he moves when he has to, but he has a weak chin. When he gets caught with a good punch, he goes down. He doesn’t like pressure and I have that. I’m looking forward to putting on an exciting show at Barclays Center and I hope I leave with lots of new fans.”

 

“I am in terrific shape, I feel fantastic in the gym and I am ready for the biggest fight of my career,” said Frampton. “On July 30 I will become a two weight world champion. I respect Leo Santa Cruz, he is a great fighter and person, but I am preparing meticulously to overcome any challenge he brings on July 30. I cannot wait to hear the crowd at Barclays Center. It is my first time boxing in New York, where some of the greatest fights have taken place. I know there will be a large number of fans traveling from the UK and Ireland but there is also a huge Irish-American audience and I am eager to show them all what I can do. Get your tickets now, it’s going to be a great fight!”

 

“Santa Cruz vs. Frampton is not only the best fight that can be made in the featherweight division, it truly is one of the most anticipated fights in all of boxing,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Boxing fans can expect nonstop action in this can’t-miss matchup of aggressive styles. There’s no better way for Santa Cruz and Frampton to make their New York debuts than at Barclays Center, in Brooklyn, against each other.”

 

“The competitive matchup of Santa Cruz vs. Frampton shines an international spotlight on BROOKLYN BOXING at Barclays Center,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. “We’re especially excited to host two of the best featherweight boxers in the sport today as they fight in New York for the first time.”

 

The popular Mexican-American Santa Cruz fights out of Los Angeles and won the 126-pound title in a “Fight of the Year” candidate against former three-division champ Abner Mares last August at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. It was just the third fight in the featherweight division for Santa Cruz, who has won belts at 118 and 122 pounds while earning a reputation as one of boxing’s most active and exciting fighters. The 27-year-old also holds victories over Cristian Mijares and Eric Morel. He has competed in world title bouts in 11 of his last 13 fights since 2012. After stopping former world champion Kiko Martinez in the fifth round last Feb. 27, Santa Cruz makes his second world title defense in his East Coast debut.

 

After defeating rival Scott Quigg in their 122-pound unification bout last Feb. 27, Frampton will attempt to capture a world title in a second weight class. Fighting out of Belfast, Northern Ireland, the Irish national amateur champion in 2005 and 2009 expects to bring some of his rabid fans stateside come July 30. The 29-year-old became a world champion in 2014 when he defeatedKiko Martinez to earn a super bantamweight title. He made his U.S. debut in July 2015 when he defeated Alejandro “Cobrita” Gonzalez Jr. in Texas before unifying the title against Quigg.

 

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Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @RealCFrampton, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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JOHN MOLINA OUTPOINTS RUSLAN PROVODNIKOV; DEMETRIUS ANDRADE DELIVERS STATEMENT KO VICTORY AND DEJAN ZLATICANIN WINS 135-POUND TITLE SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®

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Andrade Knocks Out Willie Nelson: VIDEO:http://s.sho.com/1ZHD8CJ

Zlaticanin KOs Franklin Mamani: VIDEO:http://s.sho.com/28tCoqP

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Tripleheader Replays Monday, June 13 at 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE For Images; Credit Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

VERONA, N.Y. (June 11, 2016) – John Molina outpunched Ruslan Provodnikov in an all-action fight by revealing a new weapon in his arsenal, a sharp and steady  jab.  Molina captured a surprising unanimous decision in a 12-round junior welterweight bout that featured fierce exchanges throughout Saturday on SHOWTIME from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

 

In the co-feature on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, Demetrius Andrade delivered a statement, knockout victory over Willie Nelson, staking his claim as one of the world’s best in the stacked 154-pound division.  In the opening bout, Dejan Zlaticanin knocked out Franklin Mamani to earn the vacant 135-pound world title and make history as the first native of Montenegro to win a world championship.

 

Molina and Provodnikov promised a war, and they delivered.  But what surprised many was the volume of punches and effective jabbing from Molina (29-6, 23 KOs), a veteran more known for engaging in brawls than his boxing prowess.  Molina threw nearly 1,110 total punches, including 643 jabs compared to just 265 for Provodnikov, who failed to close the range on his naturally bigger opponent.

 

“We knew we had to outwork Provodnikov,” said the 33-year-old Covina, Calif., native.  “It was a fight that we needed.  Ruslan Provodnikov is a very notable name.  He’s a tough, tough guy.  He kept moving forward.

 

“People don’t realize I had my amateur career in the pros, and now it’s my time to step out and shine.  I have a new trainer.  Shadeed (Suluki) showed me how to throw punches and use my power.”

 

Molina vs. Provodnikov was scored 116-112, 117-111, 115-113.

 

“I think it (the scorecard) was self-explanatory.  A fighter knows when they won a fight.  I won that fight and it was going to be hard to take it away from me.”

 

The judges agreed on nine of the 12 rounds, a relatively high percentage according to SHOWTIME analyst Steve Farhood.

 

“Today the decision was the right one,” Provnikov said.  “Molina won the fight – he was better tonight.  Everything was scored the way it should have been.

 

“We expected that he was going to box, he was going to move.  We expected him to do that.  It wasn’t my night.  Maybe I don’t have the same hungriness as before.  I’m not going to make excuses, but it was hard for me to find my groove tonight.

 

“I don’t think it’s that (the layoff).  There are no excuses.  I lost the fighttonight.  I couldn’t find the hungriness.  I have to sit down and think of why that happened.

 

“I’m sorry if I disappointed.”

 

Undefeated former world champion Demetrius Andrade put on a masterful performance against top-10 ranked Willie Nelson, flooring the former world title challenger four times including once in the opening round and emphatically in the final round to close the show (TKO 12,1:38).

 

With the win, Nelson, who landed a staggering 57 percent of his power punches in just his second fight in two years, moved one step closer to earning another shot at a title fight.  Andrade, who never lost his belt in the ring, is now the second mandatory challenger for the WBC Super Welterweight World Title, currently held by Jermell Charlo.

 

“I’m coming to get those belts,” said the 28-year-old Andrade.  “People can’t run no more.  The best have to fight the best.  I’m coming for them.

 

“I came back, I’m stronger.  Me and my team worked hard.  We figured out what we need to do to take it to the next level.  I’m ready for the Charlo brothers.  I want them.”

 

Andrade was on his way to pitching a shutout, delivering a statement performance after months of frustration from “boxing politics.”  The former WBO 154-pound champion targeted the head and the body of Nelson, relying on a steady diet of combos to floor the 6-foot-3 Nelson in the first, 11th and twice in the 12th.

 

“I’m young enough and my reaction time is still going,” Andrade said.  “Willie Nelson is a true champion.  He pushed me to the limit where I had to figure out what punches to throw.  But I put the pieces of the puzzle together and got the knockout, baby.

 

Nelson, of Cleveland, dropped to 25-3-1 with 15 KOs.

 

“He was tough,” Nelson said.  “I was forcing my shots too much. I felt like I was getting back into the fight, but he was crafty and mobile.

 

“I am ready for whatever is next and, despite what happened tonight, I am here to stay.  My career won’t end like this.”

 

In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME telecast, Zlaticanin blasted late-replacement Mamani with a third round TKO (:54) to win the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship.

 

The 32-year-old Zlaticanin (18-0, 10 KOs) became the first native of the Southeastern European country of Montenegro to capture a world championship.

 

“I’m very proud.  I made Montenegro proud,” Zlaticanin said.  “I want to thank my fans that came to support me.  I think I made my country proud.  I think they will be delighted.  I don’t think they know what this means, but in a few days they will know.”

 

The southpaw Zlaticanin pounced with a powerful straight left that had Mamani in trouble just seconds into the fight.  The Bolivian, who was also aiming to become the first native of his homeland to win a title, survived the round but he was in trouble again in the third.  Zlaticanin staggered with an overhand left and followed with a series of unanswered blows that forced referee Charlie Fitch to halt the contest with Mamani (21-3-1, 12 KOs) defenseless against the ropes.

 

“I knew that I would knock him out.  He stood too close to me.

 

After the fight, Zlaticanin called out Jorge Linares, the WBC Lightweight “Champion in Recess”, who pulled out of a tentatively scheduled match with Zlaticanin due to an injury.

 

“I want Linares next.  He can’t run from me anymore.

 

In undercard action on SHO EXTREME, Willie Monroe Jr. (20-2, 6 KOs) won a unanimous decision (96-92, 95-93, 99-89) over John Thompson (17-2, 6 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight matchup of former world title challengers.  Monroe scored two knockdowns, one in the second and another with a straight right jab in the fifth.

 

In the opening bout on SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME, Russian heavyweight Andrey Fedosov (29-3, 24 KOs) scored four knockdowns en route to a sixth round TKO (1:33) of Mario Heredia (11-2, 9 KOs, 1-2 in WSB).

 

Saturday’s event from Turning Stone Resort Casino was promoted by Banner Promotions and DiBella Entertainment.

 

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader replaysMonday, June 13 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.  The SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME telecast replays Tuesday, June 14 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO EXTREME.

 

Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME telecast, with Mauro Ranallo calling the action, Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-time world champion Paulie Malignaggi commentating and Jim Gray reporting. Barry Tompkins and Steve Farhood called. the SHOWTIME EXTREME action.  In the Spanish simulcast, Alejandro Luna called the blow-by-blow and former world champion Raul Marquez served as color commentator. The executive producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was David Dinkins Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.

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RUSLAN PROVODNIKOV & JOHN MOLINA JR., DEMETRIUS ANDRADE & WILLIE NELSON, DEJAN ZLATICANIN & FRANKLIN MAMANI OFFICIAL WEIGHTS & PHOTOS

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SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Live on SHOWTIME®Tomorrow From Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y. During International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend

 

Click HERE For Photos Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING – 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

 

Junior Welterweight Main Event – 12 Rounds

Ruslan Provodnikov – 140 Pounds

John Molina – 140 Pounds

REFEREE: MARK NELSON; JUDGES: DON ACKERMAN (N.Y.), GLENN FELDMAN (Conn.), JOHN MCKAIE (N.Y.)

 

WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds

Demetrius Andrade – 154 Pounds

Willie Nelson – 154 Pounds

REFEREE: RICHARD PAKOZDI; JUDGES: WYNN KINTZ (N.Y.), JOHN MCKAIE (N.Y.), TOM SCHRECK (N.Y.)

 

WBC Lightweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Dejan Zlaticanin – 134 Pounds

Franklin Mamani – 133 ½ Pounds

REFEREE: CHARLIE FITCH; JUDGES: DON ACKERMAN (N.Y.), GLENN FELDMAN (Conn.), JOHN MCKAIE (N.Y.)

 

SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME – 7 p.m. ET/PT

 

Middleweights – 10 Rounds

Willie Monroe Jr. – 160 Pounds

John Thompson – 159 Pounds

REFEREE: MARK NELSON; JUDGES: DON ACKERMAN (N.Y.), GLENN FELDMAN (Conn.), WYNN KINTZ (N.Y.)

 

Heavyweights – 10 Rounds

Andrey Fedosov – 225 ½ Pounds

Mario Heredia – 286 Pounds

REFEREE: RICHARD PAKOZDI, JUDGES: WYNN KINTZ (N.Y.), JOHN MCKAIE (N.Y.), TOM SCHRECK (N.Y.)

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions, Inc., are priced at $85, $60, $45 and $35 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877.833.SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

 

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BUD GREENSPAN’S “KINGS OF THE RING: FOUR LEGENDS OF HEAVYWEIGHT BOXING” TO AIR TONIGHT, FRIDAY, JUNE 10 AT 8 P.M. ET/PT ON SHOWTIME®

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SHOWTIME Sports® presents “KINGS OF THE RING: Four Legends of Heavyweight Boxing” featuring legendary heavyweight champions Muhammad Ali, Jack Johnson, Jack Dempsey and Joe Louis. The captivating film-length documentary written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Bud Greenspan, is airing on SHOWTIME Friday, June 10 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

 

“KINGS OF THE RING” explores the lives of four of the greatest heavyweight champions of the 20th century, who made an impact in history in and out of the ring, advocating for political issues and civil rights. The athletes not only pushed the boundaries by becoming champions, but they also achieved greatness while changing the world in the process.

 

An encore presentation of “KINGS OF THE RING: Four Legends of Heavyweight Boxing” will replay on SHOWTIME EXTREME on Saturday, June 11 at 10:30 a.m. ET/PT. It will also be available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND beginning June 15.

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John Thompson chimes in on his bout with Willie Monroe Jr. that takes on on June 11 on SHOWTIME EXTREME®

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For Immediate Release
Verona, NY (June 10, 2016)–They were Boxcino champions, and in each of their last bouts,Willie Monroe Jr. and John Thompson fought for world titles. This Saturday night, June 11 they will meet in a very important bout at the Turning Stone Resort Casino.
Monroe and Thompson will fight in a middleweight bout scheduled for 10 rounds and will be televised live on SHOWTIME EXTREME® (7 p.m. ET/PT).
Both have been training hard for this important bout, for which the winner will most likely land a big opportunity or another shot at a world title.
John “Apollo Kidd” Thompson (17-2, 6 KO’s)–Newark, NJ
“Everything is going great in camp. I am ready to get this party rolling,” said Thompson, who is coming off a 7th round stoppage defeat to Liam Smith in Manchester, England for the WBO Junior Middleweight world title. “In that fight, I learned some good and bad stuff. The only things that make you better is fighting better opposition. I know that after this win in June 11, I will be back in a big fight and I look forward to seeing everyone in Verona.”
On Saturday, June 11, Ruslan Provodnikov (25-4, 18 KOs), a former WBO Junior Welterweight World Champion, and former world title challenger John Molina Jr. (28-6, 23 KOs), of West Covina, Calif., will face each other in the 12-round main event. In the co-feature, undefeated former 154-pound world champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade (22-0, 15 KOs), of Providence, R.I., will face Willie Nelson (25-2-1, 15 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio, in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator.
Opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader is a battle for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship between No. 1 ranked Dejan Zlaticanin (17-0, 10 KOs), of the Southeastern European country of Montenegro, and WBC No.5-ranked Franklin Mamani (21-2-1, 12 KOs) of Bolivia. In the SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME® opener, heavyweight Andrey Fedosov (28-3, 23 KOs) takes on Mario Heredia(11-1, 9 KOs, 1-2 in WSB) in a 10-round heavyweight bout.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions, Inc., are priced at $85, $60, $45 and $35 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877.833.SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).
Turning Stone Resort Casino is no stranger to hosting high caliber nationally televised boxing events. Last year, Turning Stone hosted the epic battle between Provodnikov and Matthysee, selected over arenas in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Miami. When Provodnikov returns to Turning Stone on June 11th, it will mark Turning Stone’s 18th nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a mecca for knockout fights. Located in Upstate New York, Turning Stone is an award-winning destination resort, offering world-class amenities including four hotels, 21 restaurants and dining options, two luxurious spas, five beautiful golf courses, and several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.
Visit Banner Promotions at www.banner-promotions.com, follow on Twitter at @BannerBoxing, follow on Instagram at @BannerBoxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BannerPromotions, follow on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/banner-promotions-inc-?trk=biz-companies-cym, and watch on Youtube at www.youtube.com/user/bannervideo.
For Turning Stone Resort Casino: www.turningstone.com ; Twitter: @turningstone ; Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort/
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RUSLAN PROVODNIKOV & JOHN MOLINA JR., DEMETRIUS ANDRADE & WILLIE NELSON, DEJAN ZLATICANIN & FRANKLIN MAMANI FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Tripleheader
Live on SHOWTIME® This Saturday Night
From Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.
During International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend
Click HERE For Photos Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
VERONA, N.Y. (June 9, 2016) – The six fighters, including main eventers Ruslan “The Siberian Rocky” Provodnikov and John “The Gladiator” Molina, who will compete on this Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT), participated in the final press conference Thursday at Turning Stone Resort Casino here.

Russia’s Provodnikov (25-4, 18 KOs) and Molina (28-6, 23 KOs) of Covina, Calif., clash in an eagerly awaited matchup in the main event. Provodnikov, a former WBO Junior Welterweight World Champion, was involved in the Fight of the Year in 2013 with Tim Bradley; former world title challenger Molina was in the 2014 Fight of The Year with Lucas Matthysse.

A can’t-miss co-feature at Turning Stone Casino will match unbeaten former 154-pound world champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade (22-0, 15 KOs), of Providence, R.I., against Willie Nelson (25-2-1, 15 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio, in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title Elimination bout. The telecast will begin with a 12-rounder for the vacant WBC lightweight world championship between undefeated No. 1 ranked Dejan Zlaticanin(17-0, 10 KOs), of the Southeastern European country of Montenegro, and Franklin Mamani(21-2-1, 12 KOs) of Bolivia.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions, Inc., are priced at $85, $60, $45 and $35 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877.833.SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

Also this Saturday, from Turning Stone, former world title challengers Willie Monroe Jr. (19-2, 6 KOs, of Rochester, N.Y. and John Thompson (17-2, 6 KOs), of Newark, N.J., clash in a 10-round middleweight bout in the main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME (7 p.m. ET/PT). In the SHO EXTREME opener, heavyweight Andrey Fedosov (28-3, 23 KOs), of Hollywood, Calif., meets Mexico’s Mario Heredia (11-1, 9 KOs, 1-2 in WSB) in a 10-round heavyweight bout.

Below is what the fighters said Thursday:

RUSLAN PROVODNIKOV

(On training camp) …

“This camp went very well. Everything went great. Now I’m just waiting for Saturday.”

(His thoughts on Molina) …
“I have a lot of respect for Molina and his team. He’s a great fighter. These are the types of opponents I like. Most of the fights I’ve had are fights like this, opponents like this. This actually motivates me. I don’t have a problem with getting into a fight like this. This is what I’m looking for. This is the type of fight I expect.”

(On his determination and will to win) …
“Words are not so much associated with explaining this because anybody can talk and anybody can say words. I think the fans or the people have to see how my fights have been and the way that I’ve fought those fights. For me to say right now that I’m going to ‘die in the ring’, they’re words right now. The fight will show, then the fans will have an understanding in their mind of was I just saying that or is that really the way it is. The actions show, not the words.”

(On how he sees the fight playing out) …
“It’s very hard to predict and I usually don’t make predictions. I never make predictions for my fights. Let’s just wait on June 11 and see.

(Final thoughts) …
“I want to take this moment to thank everybody that has to do with this fight. All the people that made this happen.”

JOHN MOLINA JR.

(Thoughts and reflections on Muhammad Ali) …

“The world lost a great human being, not only inside the ring but outside the ring. A champion is the best way to describe him. The greatest of all time. An innovator. Somebody that changes the world in and out. My heart goes out to his family.”

(On whether he’s the underdog or this is a 50-50 fight?) …

“In the grand scheme of things, the boxer – experts if you will – I don’t know how many times they’ve been in the ring but for what they do in boxing, they seem to have him as the favorite but rightfully so. In a sense because of the personality and persona that he’s portrayed in past times. I don’t think too much about the hype. We’ve prepped for war on Saturday night. We would be doing ourselves a disservice if we didn’t prepare right for someone like Ruslan. He’s a hell of a fighter, a hell of a competitor and we were both in a Fight of the Year. What people don’t realize is we were both in Fight of the Year on the losing side and now we’re going to be in a Fight of the Year, but both of us going for the winning side. I think the fans are going to be pleasantly surprised. I’m ready. The stage is set to showcase my capabilities Saturday night.”

(On how you prepare for a fighter like Provodnikov) …
“Just like you prepare for a fighter like everybody I’ve faced. Whether it be someone like Matthysse. Whether it be other fighters, I don’t want to go into names because right now my undivided attention is on Ruslan Provodnikov but the preparation is like that of any other man. I hate comparing the guy’s style to other people because again, the whole disservice you’d be doing is to yourself. You can study their style and get used to their mannerisms and what they portray in the ring and you can prepare yourself. With that being said, June 11 will be the first time I ever face Ruslan Provodnikov so what I do to prepare myself is work on my strong points and make sure those are up to par and make sure my energy is set and ready to fire on all cylinders Saturday night and I can tell you that they are set right.”

(On what fans should expect) …
“Fireworks. Like I said, every word that we use in the thesaurus is an understatement. Boxing is a ‘what have you done for me lately’ sport and Saturday night is no different. I believe in my heart of hearts the fans are going to get a treat with Ruslan Provodnikov coming forward, not wanting to take a backward step with myself coming forward not wanting to take a backward step. We’re both going to try and go in there and pose our will on each other and you’re not going to see a boring fight. It won’t be Dancing With The Stars, it’s going to be a fight.”

DEMETRIUS ANDRADE

(On his opponent and his quality of opposition) …

“Tony Harrison is definitely not Demetrius Andrade. Yes, he’s probably a prospect and doing good things but everybody sounds good, everybody’s a prospect until you get in there with somebody that knows how to fight. They can try to bring the will out of you and that’s what Willie did is bring the will out of himself to beat somebody like Tony Harrison, but Tony Harrison’s definitely not me.

“Willie Nelson, yeah he’s tall, they say he’s strong but I’m all that too. My IQ is greater, smarter and this is my time. This is it. This is something that either makes or breaks me. It’s a good challenge so the people get to see that, due to the layoff and everything. I came back to fight a guy like this and I came back to win the 154 division.

“I came here, chewing bubble gum and kicking ass. I ran out of bubble gum so come June 11, I will be kicking some ass. I am happy that SHOWTIME gave me this opportunity and put me back on the network, put me back on prime TV.

“There’s definitely going to be violence to open up the main event show with Provodnikov and John Molina, which is going to be a tremendous fight. Thanks for everybody coming out … and I am the greatest alive.”

(On the division and possible future opponents) …

“I think that I’m going to make history by beating two twins that hold title belts and it’s going to be a legendary thing for me. So, I’m tuned in, I’m ready and I’m focused. This is my division, it’s my war.”

(On what he sees playing out on fight night) …

“I’m just going in and do my thing, you know, I’m the type of person with character. I’ve been in the ring for many years through the amateur program and fought 300-400 times, against everybody in the whole world. So, there’s not nothing I haven’t seen or fought. A tall guy like Willie Nelson with no legs or upper body, I’m going to push him to the limit. That’s pretty much the plan. I’m going in and its knockout season for me.”

WILLIE NELSON

(On fans not expecting him to win) …

“It’s what happens all the time. I’m always the underdog. It’s OK and I try not to worry about it much.

“I’m not one to predict the fights; about what can and can’t happen, but it’s going to be an interesting fight. We know each other’s background and we have sparred before at the U.S. Training Camp.”

(On Muhammad Ali)…

“It hasn’t really affected my mindset in terms of this fight. With the passing of Muhammad Ali it’s very sad for boxing, and for the world. Because he wasn’t only a great fighter but also a great icon, a great man and a great leader.”

DEJAN ZLATICANIN

(On what fighting for a world title means to him) …

“I’ve prepared for this hard fight for a long time because they changed opponents and it’s hard to be prepared for that. But I have waited for this opportunity for a long time. This is the most important fight of my life, and I am going to win this fight.”

(His prediction) …

“I don’t like to talk too much. I will talk in the ring and I promise I will knock out Franklin Mamani.”

FRANKLIN MAMANI

(On this opportunity)…
“This is the chance of a lifetime, I feel like I have the winning lotto ticket and I just need to cash it in Saturday night. I come for a boxing family of 9 brothers, I have been in boxing since I was 12 years old and I always dreamed of fighting for a world title in the United States. My country (Bolivia) and my family will be watching and I will not disappoint them.”

(On his opponent)…
Zlaticanin is an aggressive, strong and talented fighter. It will be an honor to trade leather with him inside the ring and be able to win the WBC lightweight championship of the world against the number one contender in my division.”
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SHAWN PORTER LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Primetime World Title Showdown Against Keith Thurman
Saturday, June 25 Live on CBS® From Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
“I want to win each and every round…
We’re going to shock the world.” Shawn Porter
 
 
Click HERE For Photos From Ryan Greene/Premier Boxing Champions
LAS VEGAS (June 9, 2016) – Former world champion Shawn Porter hosted a Las Vegas media workout Wednesday in advance of his welterweight world title showdown against undefeated Keith Thurman on Saturday, June 25 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, live on CBS and presented by Premier Boxing Champions with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $49 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Porter and his father and trainer, Ken Porter, were on hand to speak to media and show
off the skills of the 28-year-old Akron, Ohio, native at the Porter Hy-Performance Center.
Here’s what the Porters said Wednesday:
SHAWN PORTER
“Being the first fight in primetime on CBS since Muhammad Ali is very significant. It makes me want to go out there and do something inspiring.
“Keith’s injury gave me enough time to make extra sure that I had everything I needed to get ready for this fight. Not to say I wouldn’t have been ready March 12 but it’s given me more time to reflect and visualize. On June 25, I know I will be 100 percent on every level.
“We sparred for about two weeks together but it was a while ago. The biggest change has been mental. There are things you learn and grow out of. I’m a lot different. Still some of the same skills but definitely stronger mentally.
“I think he can do some things. He can box very well. He throws good off balanced shots. I can box as well, but I have the pressure, quickness, foot speed and hand speed that it takes to not only outbox him, but to pressure him and hurt him. I think that’s what makes it a great fight.
“At this point, we look at everything we’ve done and move forward each day because we know something special is going to happen. I’m blessed to have a mindset where I don’t focus on what I’ve done. I am always looking forward to the next big opportunity.
“I think the fight is bigger since it’s been postponed. Taking it to Barclays Center is something that is special for the sport of boxing. I won my first championship there and I look forward to keeping up the recent history of great fights at Barclays Center.
“I want to win each and every round. We want to make him have to adjust to what we’re doing. If we control the fight, we win the fight.
“I’ve always been taught to control everything in a fight. I can’t allow him to slow the tempo down. But I’m definitely not going to rush. I have the skills to execute the game plan.
“I think the difference is in my preparation. I have a great team to match my great skills. We’re going to shock the world.”
KEN PORTER, Shawn’s Father & Trainer
“We normally don’t work out hard in front of the media, but we’ve decided to switch the energy and go harder during this afternoon session. This isn’t just for the cameras.
“I respect Keith Thurman as a fighter and a person. This is something that happens along the way. Fighters have to fight each other. Some of these young guys working in this gym, they might have to fight Shawn one day. But fight night is fight night.
“I’m not worried about anything Keith Thurman can do. We’ve done all the hard work. The foundation has been laid. He’s done this since he was four-years-old. He’s been on every stage and this is his time.”
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports and @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing @KeithFThurmanJr, @ShowtimeShawnP, @AbnerMares, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment andwww.facebook.com/BarclaysCenter.
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DOMINIC “TROUBLE” BREAZEALE   TRAINING CAMP NOTES  # PROVIDES INSIGHT ON EXCHANGE    WITH JOSHUA, TRAINING CAMP AND   UPCOMING IBF WORLD TITLE BOUT

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Photo courtesy of Timothy Hernandez.  For more photos click HERE
Upland, California (June 9, 2016) – It has been roughly five weeks since WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight Champion Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (17-0, 15 KO’s) was notified that he would be facing newly crowned IBF world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (16-0, 16 KO’s). In that time, Breazeale has been continuing to train diligently with world renowned trainer Manny Robles in preparation for his upcoming IBF world heavyweight title challenge.

The heavyweight challenger from Alhambra, California and his trainer from East Los Angeles took some time out of Breazeale’s busy schedule to answer some questions about his training camp and the bout with Anthony Joshua on June 25th.
When you first found out that you were selected as Joshua’s opponent, what were your initial thoughts?
“When I received a call from my advisor Al Haymon and he told me the good news, I was excited. I immediately told my wife and then notified my team that we got the fight. I knew I was one of three possible opponents and I was happy that I got it. Ever since 2008 when I started getting into boxing, it was a dream of mine to be the world heavyweight champion. Eight years later, I’m here.”
Back on May 4th, you traveled to London for the press conference to announce the fight. There was clearly a heated discussion between you and Joshua. What happened?

“Well, prior to going into the press conference, we took some photos outside of the building. Then we had the stare down. I guess he didn’t like that when he looked away, I kept staring at him. So, since he was in front of the cameras, he started acting tough.”

“I just let him know that he was in for a dog fight. I’m not going to back down and he clearly saw that. I’m not coming for a check; I’m coming for that title and bringing it back to the United States where it belongs.”

How is training camp going?
“Training camp has been going really well. I was actually in camp before the fight was announced so I am in great shape. My coaches Manny Robles and Edgar Jasso have a great fight plan for me and we are working hard in the gym. I have great sparring partners and they are helping me as well.”

“My stable mates are also pushing me to train as hard as I can. I’m getting better every day and I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Coach Manny: how are things going in training camp?
“Everything is going as expected. This camp is far beyond better than the last camp. Dominic will tell that this is beyond his best camp ever. You know, in his past camps he knew there was a routine every day. The last two camps, he expects something different every day. The variation of training keeps him focused and motivated and he is doing very well. I’m seeing overall improvements, from his ring generalship to his defense and footwork, putting punches together along with his balance and his jab.”
“I see improvement in every aspect of his game and he is becoming a better overall boxer. We are working to win. We are working hard in the gym and that is where the fights are won. Our sparring is going really well as is the training. Strength and conditioning coach Darryl Hudson is doing a phenomenal job with Dominic and the results are showing. We’re coming to win.”
Dominic: How does it feel to be going back to London fighting for a world title?
“It feels great. I couldn’t have written the script any better. This is unfinished business. Back in 2012, I earned a spot on the Olympic team after just a year and half of boxing as a competitive amateur. But everyone knows that the amateur ranks are nothing like the professional ranks. So far in my professional career, I have learned to impose my will on my opponents and that’s why I’m fighting Joshua for the world title. I’m looking forward to going back to London to finish what I didn’t four years ago.”
What are your thoughts on the current state of the heavyweight division?
“The heavyweight division is ripe for the pickings. You have an out of shape fighter like Tyson Fury who now holds two titles after getting a decision over Wladimir Klitchko, who clearly had an off night. I believe Klitchko will KO Fury and Fury retires.”

“Then you have the controversy between Deontay Wilder and Alexander Povetkin. I was really looking forward to that bout. I sparred with Povetkin in Russia a few years ago and I know what he is capable of. I have a lot of respect for Deontay Wilder and it’s too bad that fight didn’t happen.”

What are your expectations for how the bout with Anthony Joshua plays out?
“I’m coming to London to win, plain and simple. I’m going to pressure Joshua and just keep punching. He is going to think that he is fighting two or three Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale’s and I expect to knock him out in the 6th or 7th round. Come June 25th, I will have a place in history as the new IBF world heavyweight champion.”

Do you have anything is closing?

“I want to take the time to offer my condolences to the Ali family. We lost a true legend and the greatest of all time. There will never be another man of his figure.  Mr. Ali always inspired me to not only be the best in the ring, but the best human being possible. The world has lost a great man. My fight will be the first heavyweight bout since his passing and I intend to make him happy.”

“Here Comes Trouble“
 
#
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Keith Thurman Quotes & Photos From St. Petersburg, Fla. Media Day

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Welterweight World Champion Battles Shawn Porter Live on CBS
Saturday, June 25 From Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
“This is a chance to showcase our talents and our skills to the world…
I’m definitely going for the knockout.” Thurman
 
Click HERE for Photos from Eric Walker/Premier Boxing Champions
(Photos to be added shortly)
 
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (June 8, 2016) – Welterweight world champion Keith Thurman opened training camp to media today in St. Petersburg as he prepares to defend his title against former world champion Shawn Porter on Saturday, June 25 in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT with a featherweight world title showdown between current champion Jesus Cuellar and former three-division world champion Abner Mares.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $49 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Born and raised in the area, Thurman worked out at St. Pete Boxing Club along with longtime trainer Dan Birmingham as he prepared for his primetime battle against the strong and dangerous Porter.
Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:
KEITH THURMAN
“Muhammad Ali opened up the door for so many people. Michael Jordan changed the game in our era, but Ali did it so long ago. He showed people that boxing is a great sport and can be the most entertaining sport in the world.
“For me, it’s almost like a dream come true. It’s surreal. I remember at an early age in boxing saying, ‘I want to be the guy that brings boxing back.’ I’m really blessed to be where I am in my career. For all the fighters who could end up on this stage, I’m proud that I’ve been chosen.
“I’ve always considered myself a knockout artist. Back to when I was a teenager knocking out grown men in headgear. Ever since then, I’ve been dropping people like a bad habit.
“I love being a power-puncher. My favorite fighter of all time is Mike Tyson. One of my goals that I set when I was a kid was to have more knockouts than Mike Tyson throughout my career.
“I’m ready for Shawn Porter. We’re going to box harder, box stronger and box better. I will be the better man.
“Training is the fundamentals of getting one prepared. We’ve always known that Shawn Porter was going to come into this fight in tremendous shape. That’s what his training methods are all about. But the Energizer Bunny has never been hit by Keith Thurman, and I’m pretty sure I could stop it in its tracks.
“I’m going for the knockout. I’ve stated it before. My hands are itching for a knockout. I’m ‘One Time,’ all the time. That’s my philosophy. Every single time I step into the ring I’m looking for the knockout. We don’t get paid for overtime.
“This is an opportunity to showcase our talents and our skills to the world. The winner will have an opportunity to be the head guy in the sport. I’ve always wanted to have a legacy in the sport of boxing.
“I want to be the undisputed welterweight champion of the world. That’s my ultimate goal. There have only been so many in the history of boxing. I want to be a part of that history.”
DAN BIRMINGHAM, Thurman’s Trainer
“Keith is a guy who deserves to be on this stage. He has a lot of experience and he’s come into his own. This is the kind of thing that happens when you work hard.
“Life happens. Keith was involved in the accident and so we took the necessary rest. He saw the right doctors and we’re back now. We’re ready for Shawn Porter.
“We’re constantly conditioning. We’re working on attacking his style. He’s a short, come-forward brawler who’s going to try to come into Keith’s chest and make it a war. We’re making out adjustments.
“Keith has to be busier, more in charge fighter. He has to work off of his jab and then his power will keep Porter at bay.”
#          #          #
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @KeithFThurmanJr, @ShowtimeShawnP, @AbnerMares, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.facebook.com/BarclaysCenter.
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ANATOMY OF A COMEBACK: RELIVE WHEN JOHN MOLINA Jr.  SHOCKED MICKEY BEY WITH A DEVASTATING 10TH-ROUND COME-FROM-BEHIND KNOCKOUT LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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* * * SHOWTIME BOXING VIDEO ALERT * * *

 

 

 

Molina Set To Meet Heavy-Handed Counterpart Ruslan Provodnikov In Main Event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Tripleheader This Saturday, June 11, Live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT)


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On July 20, 2013, in Las Vegas, John “The Gladiator” Molina rallied from the brink of defeat to hand previously undefeated and highly regarded Mickey Bey the first loss of his career with a dramatic 10th-round stoppage.  It remains one of the most unlikely finishes in the 15-year history of ShoBox: The New Generation.

 

Heading into the last round, Molina was trailing on all three judges’ scorecards by 90-81, 89-82 and 88-83.  But with about 1:25 remaining, he connected with a left hook to the chin that stunned Bey.  Sensing Bey was in serious trouble, Molina followed with a series of shots with both hands. Moments later, the referee, Vic Drakulich, stepped in and stopped the fight.

 

“That’s why you gotta love the fight game. Anything can happen,” said Molina.

 

Molina (28-6, 23 KOs) faces Ruslan “The Siberian Rocky” Provodnikov (25-4, 18 KOs) this Saturday as part of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.  In a co-feature, undefeated former 154-pound world champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade (22-0, 15 KOs) will face Willie Nelson (25-2-1, 15 KOs) in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator.  Opening the telecast is a battle for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship between No. 1 ranked Dejan Zlaticanin (17-0, 10 KOs), against WBC No. 5 ranked contender Franklin Mamani (21-2-1, 12 KOs).