Category Archives: Showtime

Jesus Cuellar & Abner Mares Los Angeles Media Roundtable Quotes & Photos

 
Featherweight World Title Fight Opens Coverage
Live on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT Before
Keith Thurman vs. Shawn Porter Welterweight World Title Showdown
 
Click HERE For Photos From Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME
 
LOS ANGELES (May 12, 2016) – Featherweight world champion Jesus Cuellar and former three-division world champion Abner Mares went face-to-face for the first time Thursday as they hosted media roundtables in Los Angeles ahead of their showdown on Saturday, June 25 showdown live on CBS from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by the highly anticipated welterweight clash between welterweight world champion Keith Thurman and former world champion Shawn Porter.
Tickets for the June 25 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 1-800-745-3000Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
With both men training in California, the two met for the first time at The Palms Restaurant about their fight and respective training camps before they head east to Brooklyn for the primetime battle.
Here is what the participants had to say Thursday:
JESUS CUELLAR
“I’ve been training very hard for this fight. You will see on June 25 that I have one of the best chins out there. I’m excited to finally have this fight.
“I have no bitterness towards Robert Garcia. I’ve seen him and I’m thankful for him making me a champion. This is business. This is work.
“We’ve been training in Big Bear for a little over two months now so I’m pushing myself very hard for this fight. I’m thankful for this great opportunity and I want to make the most of it.
“On June 25, I will once again give it my all and leave it all in the ring. At the end of the fight I will prove who the champion is and raise my hand in victory.
“I’m focused and well prepared. I’m ready for anything that happens. I know I’m going to win the fight. It doesn’t matter how, but I’m going to win.
“This is the same team we’ve had for four years, whether Robert Garcia is here or not. We’re ready to take on anyone.
“We’ve wanted this fight for two years and finally it is the time. We’re going to be in great shape and I know Mares will be in great shape too. We’re very happy that the fight was made. June 25 I’m going to prove that I am the number one featherweight champion.
“I’m just excited to go in the ring and give my best on June 25. I’m going to bring the victory home to Argentina.
“I’m thankful to be an Argentine champion and I’m happy to represent my country as the only world champion right now.”
ABNER MARES
“I’m really happy to be a part of this card against a really tough fighter in Jesus Cuellar. I know he’s mentioned that he wants to fight me and I’ve never been scared to do so. It’s all about timing. Now he’s going to know what it’s like to fight a top level fighter.
“I’ve been in boxing for many years. I’ve fought many tough fights. Against Leo Santa Cruz it wasn’t the outcome that we wanted, but we showed that we have the heart and the intelligence to fight top level guys.
“I’m happy that I’m fighting some with a legacy. Jesus Cuellar is a tough fighter, he hits hard and I respect him. I have nothing bad to say about him as a person. I know he’s going to be well conditioned, but I’m a level higher and I’m going to show it on June 25.
“This is a fight that I can gain so much and Robert Garcia too. He’s going to show, through me, that it was a big mistake for Cuellar to leave him.
“I feel great about the Santa Cruz fight, despite the loss on my record. It was a win, because I gained so much, a lot of respect and a lot of experience.
“I have a lot of reasons to be excited about this fight. One, I’m finally going to New York. I’ve never been there in my life. Two, I will become a world champion again. Three, I’m definitely fighting a top-level fighter. As I’ve mentioned many times before, I like these types of fights. It always brings out the best in me.
“Against Cuellar you’re going to see a different Abner, a new Abner. With Robert Garcia as my coach I have the slight advantage that he once trained Cuellar and took him to a world title. He’s a tough fighter, but he can’t say I’m not either.”
JUAN MANUEL LEDESMA, Cuellar’s Trainer
“We worked with Robert for four fights. We worked together and made Jesus a better fighter. Now there is the opportunity to continue working with Jesus, so I see no controversy or problems there.
“The long camp was what we needed. We needed to clear up some stuff and work on some things that were lacking. We got extra time in the altitude and being in Big Bear we are away from any distractions. Jesus is focused on what he needs to work on.
“Abner Mares is a great, skilled fighter. We have been working together to perfect the skills that we need to bring into the fight. When the day comes, we will be ready for the fight.”
ROBERT GARCIA, Mares’ Trainer
“When Mares first started working with me, we had no idea we were going to fight Jesus Cuellar. Now that we’re back in camp, I definitely have to take advantage of all the things I know about Cuellar. He has weaknesses that I know and I’m working on them with Abner.
“Abner is a fighter who over the last few years has given a lot of exciting brawls and great fights. Abner has tremendous skills though. When I met him years ago he had those skills but they weren’t being honed. People will think I taught him these skills, but I’m just bringing them back.
“Cuellar leaving me was the best thing that could have happened. If Cuellar hadn’t left, I wouldn’t have Mares. I got a great fighter and a great person. Things happen for a reason. We are going to do great things in boxing.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manage, SHOWTIME Sports
 
“Right now there is some criticism of boxing, that the best aren’t fighting the best. All you have to do is look at this card. These are the right fights. The right weight at the right time.
“June 25 we have two marquee matchups. All four fighters ranked in the top 10 in their respective divisions taking on each other. Thurman and Porter, Cuellar and Mares, this is the best doubleheader of the entire year. I will put these two fights against any doubleheader that airs on television. That was our focus when we turned to CBS for this broadcast.
“The Thurman v. Porter and Cuellar v. Mares fights showcase fighters in the primes of their careers. What we have here are four fighters that are willing to take on the best, not make a spectacle of it.  The go about their business with great care for the craft and they simply come to fight.
“Featherweight is one of the hottest divisions in the sport. You know Abner Mares, he has one of the best resumes in boxing. If you look at the list of fights that he has had, there aren’t a lot of big names on it and now the New York City fans will get to see what he has to offer.
“The champion, Jesus Cuellar has quietly put together his own very strong resume. What we have here is a fascinating matchup.”
KEVIN ROONEY, Director of Communications, DiBella Entertainment
“We’re truly honored and excited to promote this fight. Lou DiBella said at the New York presser for the main event that this is ‘the best this sport has to offer.’ These are not only tremendous world title matchups, but two of the biggest and most exciting matchups that can be made in their respective divisions taking place at Barclays Center, the premier sporting venue on the East Coast.
“A testament to how big an event this is, is how the tickets are moving. We are hoping and anticipating that some fans will make it over from the West Coast.
“Robert Garcia trained Jesus Cuellar for much of his career and the two won a world title together. Robert Garcia is here today but with his new charge, Abner Mares. The two have their first fight together and they believe that this will be the best Abner Mares we have ever seen.
“For Cuellar it will be his second fight with Juan Manuel Ledesma, but the two have worked together since Cuellar was a kid. It should be exciting to see how it plays out on fight night.
“We know that Sergio Martinez will be there on fight night to cheer on his fellow countryman in Jesus Cuellar and we look forward to seeing an exciting fight.”
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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, @PremierBoxing @KeithFThurmanJr, @ShowtimeShawnP, @AbnerMares, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.facebook.com/BarclaysCenter.

SHOWTIME SPORTS® ORIGINAL DOCUMENTARY SERIES “ALL ACCESS” WINS SPORTS EMMY® AWARD FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR

 

NEW YORK (May 11, 2016) – SHOWTIME Sports original documentary series “ALL ACCESS” earned a Sports Emmy Award for the third consecutive year on Tuesday night, taking home the honor for “Outstanding Edited Sports Coverage” for “ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. Berto Epilogue” at the 37th Annual Sports Emmy Award ceremony in New York City.

 

“The boxing business and the characters within it present unique challenges to anyone attempting to document it,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports.  “The ability to produce award-winning work in this sport year-after-year is testament to the excellence of this production team.  On behalf of everyone that contributes to this great franchise – from the field to the edit facility, working all hours of the day and the night – we are grateful for and inspired by this award.”

 

This is the second Sports Emmy ALL ACCESS has earned in the “Outstanding Edited Sports Coverage” category.  The series, which chronicles the buildup and aftermath of boxing’s biggest prizefights, won its first Sports Emmy Award at the 2014 ceremony for “Outstanding Edited Sports Coverage” with “ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. Canelo Epilogue.”

 

In 2015, the revealing documentary series earned the overarching “Outstanding Sports Documentary Series” Emmy Award for its four separate multi-episode installments of ALL ACCESS.  That year, the network documented the first and second showdowns between Floyd Mayweather and Marcos Maidana, Canelo Alvarez vs. Alfredo Angulo and Canelo Alvarez vs. Erislandy Lara.

 

SHOWTIME Sports has earned nine Sports Emmy Awards in the last five years for the premium networks’ programming.

 

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Apple®, Roku®, Amazon and Google. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Hulu, Sony PlayStation® Vue and Amazon Prime Video. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel and Smithsonian Earth. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV. For more information, go towww.SHO.com.

 

Erislandy Lara Prepares For World Title Rematch With Vanes Martirosyan Saturday, May 21 Live on SHOWTIME® From The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

Training Camp Quotes & Photos
 
Click HERE for Photos From Edward Jackson
 
HOUSTON (May 11, 2016) – WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara is set to defend his world title and settle his score against Vanes “The Nightmare” Martirosyan when the two meet in the main event of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®tripleheader featuring the top 154-pound talent in the sport on Saturday, May 21 from The Chelsea, inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Live televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features unbeaten IBF Junior Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo taking on former champion Austin “No Doubt” Troutand his twin brother Jermell Charlo battling top challenger John Jackson for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Title.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now. Ticket prices start at $39, and are available online at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000;www.ticketmaster.com.
Lara and Martirosyan will meet after their 2012 bout ended in a technical draw. See below for the Cuban-born champion’s thoughts on training camp, the rematch and more:
 
On his rematch with Vanes Martirosyan:
 
“This is a very important fight for me.  Our last fight unfortunately ended in a draw because of a clash of heads so we have some unfinished business to take care of.  This time I’m not going to leave any doubt on who the better fighter is.  I’m coming to dominate and retain my world championship.”
 
On training camp:
 
“I’m taking this fight very seriously.  I’ve been pushing my body to get in the best shape possible.  My body feels incredible and I couldn’t ask for a better training camp.  I’ve been sparring a lot and my timing is getting better with each session.  Everything is going as planned.”
 
On the May 21 card:
 
“It’s great to be fighting on this card, especially when there is so much on the line while I defend my title.  In addition, the Charlo brothers are fighting on the undercard, which makes for a great night of boxing for the super welterweight division.  The landscape of the 154-pound division will be laid out afterMay 21.”
 
On the state of the super welterweight division:
 
“Honestly I believe the 154-pound division is one of the strongest in all of boxing.  I feel I’m leading the pack and my goal is to unify all the belts.  I’m going to take it one fight at a time with the mindset to clean out the division.”
 
On fighting in Las Vegas:
 
“Vegas is the boxing capital of the world and fighting there is unbelievable.  The fans are very supportive.  The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan is very intimate and every seat in the building is a good seat.  I anticipate a lively crowd.”
 
On his relationship with Ronnie Shields:
 
“Ronnie is a great coach and his game plans are very well thought out.  He keeps everything simple.  If we have to make adjustments during the fight, he’ll be able to point them out.  We both have a great mutual respect for one another.”
For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LaraBoxing, @VanesBoxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @NoDoubtTrout, @TwinCharlo, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxingand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions

FOUR UNBEATEN, U.S.-BORN CRUISERWEIGHTS LOOKING TO MAKE NAME FOR THEMSELVES, ADD LIFE TO DIVISION

 

CRUISIN FOR A BRUISIN: CAMP NOTES

 FRIDAY, MAY 13 ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION LIVE 

ON SHOWTIME® FROM SAM’S TOWN LIVE IN LAS VEGAS

 

Quadrupleheader Highlighted By 10-Round Fights Between
Andrew Tabiti vs. Keith Tapia, Michael Hunter vs. Isiah Thomas


Tickets on Sale!

 

LAS VEGAS (May 10, 2016) – Four young, undefeated cruiserweights from the United States will look to make a name for themselves when they meet in the featured bouts on ShoBox: The New Generation this Friday, May 13, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Live.

 

The cruiserweight division has traditionally been dominated by Europeans boxers. Friday’s U.S.-born ShoBox fighters will be seeking to change that perception.

 

In the main event, talented Mayweather star Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti (12-0, 11 KOs), of Las Vegas, takes on power-puncher Keith “Machine Gun” Tapia (17-0, 11 KOs), of Bronx. N.Y.  2012 U.S. Olympian, Michael Hunter (11-0, 8 KOs), of Las Vegas, faces Isiah Thomas (15-0, 6 KOs), of Detroit, in the co-feature.

 

Other televised fights of a quadrupleheader: TMT’s Ronald “The Thrill” Gavril (15-1, 11 KOs), of Las Vegas, will meet hard-punching Colombian Juan Camilo “La Boa” Novoa (26-6-1, 24 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight bout and his TMT stablemate Sanjarbek “War” Rakhmanov (4-0, 3 KOs), of Las Vegas by way of Uzbekistan, will be opposed by Alfonso Olvera (7-2, 3 KOs), of Tucson, Ariz., is a six-round welterweight bout that will open the telecast. All but Gavril will be making their ShoBox debuts.

 

Tickets for the event promoted by Mayweather Promotions are priced at $25 and $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale.  Tickets can be purchased online atwww.samstownlv.com/entertain, by calling (702) 284-7777, or at any Boyd Gaming box office.

 

Here’s what the fighters said about their fights Friday, training camp, their respective opponents and more:

 

ANDREW TABITI

 

“It’s great that four undefeated cruiserweights are fighting each other. I want us to get the ball back into U.S. territory, since it is a historically European-dominated division. I definitely think the emergence of young cruiserweights like myself is changing that.

 

“I don’t compare myself to other cruiserweights in the division, I know I’m the best. I’m always looking to win impressively, and I look to put on a great performance for the fansFriday night.

 

“Everything has been perfect. Training camp has been going great. I started camp in February so I feel strong and comfortable. What’s interesting is that I’m not nervous at all despite this being my first headlining debut. I see it as any other fight where I know what I am coming in to do. I think that lets me know that I am maturing as a fighter and feel a lot more confident in my skills and abilities.

 

“I’ve been waiting for the right date and this is it. I believe my career moving is great, what I dreamed of. Now it’s time to take the next step.

 

“Personally I’ve never seen Tapia fight, but I’ve watched videos. He is unbeaten, a solid opponent. Styles make fights and this is a good one for me. I’m looking forward to continuing to step up and give everybody a good performance and get close to a title fight.

 

“I can’t wait. I’m going in confident. The key is to get the victory, it’s the main thing. Winning is everything.

 

“I feel blessed to be training out of Floyd’s gym and be able to fight under Mayweather Promotions. He’s someone I look up to so being where I am is a dream coming to reality. I love training at Mayweather Boxing Club. It keeps me focused and hungry.”

 

KEITH TAPIA

 

“Fighting Tabiti is a great, real challenge. I like the way he fights. I respect him, but I’m going to be bad weather for him. I’m going to take control right away; it will be a Tapia fight, not a Tabiti fight. That’s a fact.

 

“Tabiti is a talented boxer. His style is a Mayweather style. I love Floyd Mayweather as a fan, but Tabiti’s not Floyd Mayweather. Me? I come to fight, hands up, moving forward as I go. I want to run over you.

 

“I’m definitely going to change the perception about me in this fight and the division because I’m a machine. I’m really confident and can’t wait to fight.

 

“For me, this is the right time. I am here and definitely ready to fight. I feel I’m the best in my weight class except no one has seen me yet. Tabiti may have the fame, but I’m not just going to talk the talk, I’m going to walk the walk.

 

“I think this is a big step up for me when I beat him. Once the bell rings, that’s when we know what is going to really happen.

 

“I’m going to become the cruiserweight champion, defend it a couple of times and then move up. I already feel like a champion both mentally and spiritually.

 

“All of my fights are equally important. I’m really satisfied with the way my career is going. If it wasn’t for boxing I wouldn’t be here right now. God and boxing saved me. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be alive.”

 

 

MICHAEL HUNTER

 

“This is a step up as far as competition compared to the past, with him being an undefeated cruiserweight. He’s a good, long-ranging southpaw. We are actually around the same age; we were in the amateurs at the same time, but never fought each other.Friday, I aim to win impressively. I don’t want to say I’m going for the knockout, if it happens it happens, but hopefully we can get it.

 

“Although I’ve fought on TV quite a few times before, this is going to be a good show with Mayweather Promotions. I’m thankful to be fighting on the undercard of my good friend Andrew Tabiti. That’s an honor, to be honest. It’s going to be great that my family and friends outside of Las Vegas will be able to tune in to watch me, so that’s a blessing.

 

“I wouldn’t say I’m satisfied with the way my career is going. I can’t complain because I have no losses, I just wish it would go at a little faster pace. I’m a two-time Olympian and in the amateurs we’re used to fighting 4-5 times out of the week, so adjusting to fighting once every few months or so feels a little stagnant to me. I really try not to think too far into the future, I try to live in the moment, but I hope to get a title shot relatively soon.

“I went into training camp right after my last fight, so it’s been about eight weeks. There’s always ups and downs in training, but as long as you keep a positive spirit, everything will end up going perfectly well. So it’s been going good I can’t complain. I usually train out of the Mayweather Boxing Club, but there’s been some construction going on so we have moved it to Fight Capitol and a few other places.

“I have been changing my training just to better myself, not necessarily for my opponent or for this fight.

 

“You have to be a little more focused in the Mayweather Gym.  There’s a lot of stuff that doesn’t really happen in a normal gym simply because he is Floyd so it will bring it out of you or it won’t. Only the strongest survive.”

 

ISIAH THOMAS

 

Friday is a good thing for up-and-coming, American cruiserweights. There are a lot of us in the division looking to make our mark. Not just myself. This is our chance to show that America has good fighters in the cruiserweight division. It’s the perfect showcase.

 

“I’m very excited about being part of Friday’s card. I am just taking it all in and looking to perform to the top of my ability and showcase my talents.

 

“Hunter is young and hungry just like me, but I haven’t really seen or watched him. I’ve heard about him and I’m sure he’s going to bring his “A” game.

 

“I know what I can do, there’s no need for a lot of strategizing. I’m not just showing up.

 

“I feel my career is going good to this point. I keep rising. I’m on television. I like the pace I’m going but there is only way to really go, and that’s to the top. I don’t consider myself the best cruiserweight, just one of the top comers. Eventually, and in due time, though.

 

Friday, I’m just going to do what I do best. Of course, you want to win impressively but the most important thing is to win. I’ve got to get that W.

 

“I live in Detroit but train in Miami, which is like a second home to me. Training camp has been going for about two months and it has been great. I get great sparring in Miami.”

 

RONALD GAVRIL

 

“I’m looking forward to having this big opportunity. Many people don’t know who I am so fighting on SHOWTIME will start giving me the exposure and recognition I need.

 

“Training camp has been going great, I feel strong and prepared. I’m happy and have no complaints. I feel blessed to be a part of this great card full of fighters with tremendous talent. It’s exciting to be able to share this with my stablemates here in our town.

 

“I’m looking forward to what this will bring not only for my future but for all of ours.”

 

JUAN NOVOA

 

“Training camp has been going great, I have been training for seven weeks now. I’m currently training in Miami, Fla.

 

“I have seen videos of his fights and can tell he is a strong fighter who is not afraid to mix it up. Considering that I have more professional fights and over 180 amateur fights, it is tough to say whether Gavril is a step up for me, until I step into the ring this Friday.

 

“I would be more satisfied with my career if I had already won a world title, but unfortunately the circumstances from my last world championship challenge didn’t turn out in my favor. I know that by winning this fight I would immediately launch myself into world title contention and potentially another world title opportunity. I see myself either challenging for, or defending a world title a year from now.”

 

SANJARBEK RAKHMANOV

 

“I’ve watched Olvera enough to feel I know him. He’s a taller, Mexican guy. I’m looking forward to fighting him.

 

“I train at Mayweather Boxing Club with Dewey Cooper; he’s been my coach since I turned pro. I had about 150 amateur fights and I got a lot of international experience.

 

“I consider myself a puncher. Once the bell rings, I come to fight.

 

“I’m happy with the way things are going. I train hard every day. I’m coming to take all the titles. This is my weight, around 143 pounds. I don’t plan to go up much or down

 

“In this fight I want to win and look good and then come right back. I think after about a year I will be ready to take on all the top guys.’’

ALFONSO OLVERA

 

“Training camp has been great; we’ve been in training for about a month. Road work is good, the sparring is good with different boxers. The weight is not an issue. I train at Scrapyard Boxing Gym in Tucson, Ariz.

 

“Our opponent is formidable and to be taken serious. We know he is aggressive and expects to win so we have to bring our “A” game to the ring. We also expect to win.

 

“At this point in my career I am very happy with my progress. This card is definitely for the world to see, and is also a big step forward for us.

 

“We are welcoming the opportunity and grateful for it. We hope this fight elevates us to more opportunities and gets us closer to someday challenging for a world title.”

 

For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter: @FloydMayweather, @MayweatherPromo @SHOSports, @andrewtabiti89, @machine_gun_tapia_, follow on Instagram at: @floydmayweather, @Mayweatherpromotions, @shosports, become a fan on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/FloydMayweatherwww.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

“The Siberian Rocky” Ruslan Provodnikov hits camp in advance of his June 11 bout with John Molina Jr.

 

Live on Showtime Championship Boxing®  from The Turning Stone Resort Casino

For Immediate Release
INDIO, Calif. (May 10, 2016) — Former WBO junior welterweight world champion, “The Siberian Rocky”, Ruslan Provodnikov is deep in training in Indio, Calif. with his trainer Joel Diaz for his June 11 main event bout with John Molina Jr. at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y. live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) .
“Knowing exactly the date and the opponent makes me unstoppable and mentally confident in training,”Provodnikov said. “This fight will start a new page in my career.  I want to show the people that have already written me off the books what I can do in the ring.

“I will be ready for another war on June 11.  I am very happy with the way training camp is going. Joel Diaz is a great trainer and is helping me correct some of the bad habits that I had in previous fights.”

Provodnikov-Molina Jr. will headline a tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) that will also feature a WBC Super Welterweight Elimination bout between Demetrius Andrade and Willie Nelson, plus a battle for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship that will pit No. 1 Dejan Zlaticanin against No. 2 Emiliano Marsili

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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, 1,200 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, five beautiful golf courses, and several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and , 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 atwww.facebook.com/BannerPromotions, follow on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/banner-promotions-inc-?trk=biz-companies-cym, and watch on Youtube atwww.youtube.com/user/bannervideo.
For Turning Stone Resort Casino: www.turningstone.com ; Twitter: @turningstone ; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort/
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SHOWTIME SPORTS® CONTINUES CELEBRATION OF 30 YEARS OF SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® ALL THIS MONTH WITH “MAYWEATHER”

 

THE MONTH OF MAY(WEATHER)

 

Tune-In Tonight At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME® To Re-Live Mayweather’s Dominating Win Over Previously Undefeated Canelo Alvarez; Watch Round 7 Now:http://s.sho.com/23pPQXm

 

Photo Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

NEW YORK (May 5, 2016) – Universally acknowledged as the most talented fighter of this generation and one of the greatest boxers in history, now-retired Floyd Mayweather will be honored during the month of May when SHOWTIME Sports® continues its year-long salute commemorating 30 years of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®with “MAYWEATHER”.

 

The fifth round of a 12-month tribute will be highlighted by four of the most memorable and meaningful fights in Mayweather’s magnificent 19-year career – against Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, Marcos “Chino” Maidana, Manny Pacquiao and Andre Berto.

 

The four fights will air on “Throwback Thursdays” all month at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO EXTREME and are available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and via the network’s online streaming service.  Each fight will be wrapped with brief context and commentary from SHOWTIME Sports host Brian Custer.

 

Below is the schedule of SHOWTIME EXTREME premieres for the month of May

  • Thursday, May 5: Mayweather vs. Canelo
  • Thursday, May 12: Mayweather vs. Maidana I
  • Thursday, May 19: Mayweather vs. Pacquiao
  • Thursday, May 26: Mayweather vs. Berto

 

May Days

 

(Mayweather-Canelo, Sept. 14, 2013) — In a blockbuster megaevent billed as “The One,” Mayweather won an impressive 12-round decision over previously undefeated Canelo Alvarez in the then-highest-grossing pay-per-view and most profitable boxing event of all time. For the night’s work, Mayweather collected Canelo’s WBC, WBA and Ring Magazine Super Welterweight Championships.

 

(Mayweather-Maidana 1, May 3, 2014) — Mayweather seized “The Moment” against Marcos Maidana, but it wasn’t easy. For a stirring moment – or two, in fact – it appeared the aggressive-minded Argentine might do the unthinkable — and deal Mayweather his first defeat. But the supremely skilled and savvy Mayweather rallied convincingly in the bout’s second half to take a 12-round majority decision.

(Mayweather-Pacquiao, May 2, 2015) – Five-Division world champion Mayweather won a clear 12-round unanimous decision over Eight-Division world champion Manny Pacquiao in a record-shattering “Fight of the Century.”  Regarded as one of the most anticipated sporting events of all time, Mayweather-Pacquiao demolished PPV records for buys, revenue, live gate and more. The fight nearly doubled the previous record of 2.48 million buys generated by the Mayweather-Oscar De La Hoya match in 2007 and nearly tripled the record $150 million in U.S. pay-per-view revenue generated by Mayweather-Canelo in 2013.  Inside the ring, Floyd had his way throughout, winning by the scores of 118-110 and 116-112 twice,

 

(Sept. 12, 2015, Mayweather-Berto) – Mayweather went to 49-0, matching the record of the late heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano, with a dominant 12-round unanimous decision over Berto. In command throughout, “TBE” landed an impressive 56 percent (232/410) in punches thrown and 67 percent of his power punches (132/196) to triumph by the scores of 120-108, 118-110 and 117-111. If this was Mayweather’s last fight, as he’s said, then the maestro manufactured yet one last masterpiece.

 

QUOTES & PHOTOS FROM TODAY’S SHOWTIME SPORTS/ANTHONY JOSHUA ANNOUNCEMENT & KICKOFF PRESS CONFERENCE FOR IBF HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE FIGHT VS. DOMINIC BREAZEALE

Joshua and Breazeale Engage in Heated Exchanges

 

June 25 Event Marks Joshua’s Initial Title Defense & First Fight
Of Exclusive U.S. Television Agreement With SHOWTIME Sports
®

 

PHOTO DOWNLINK: HERE; Credit: Matchroom Sport

 

JOSHUA KO HIGHLIGHT VIDEO: http://s.sho.com/1q11DOF

 

LONDON (May 4, 2016) – Undefeated IBF Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua and unbeaten American challenger Dominic Breazeale had an intense face-to-face meeting on Wednesday before a contingent of major sports media outlets in London to formally announce their June 25 showdown. The two were joined by SHOWTIME Sports Executive Vice President & General Manager Stephen Espinoza and Matchroom Sports President Eddie Hearn, as the executives announced Joshua’s new exclusive U.S. television deal.  All four participants later took part on a teleconference with U.S. media.

 

Highlights from today’s press conference at Hilton London Syon Park and teleconference are below.

 

Joshua (16-0, 16 KOs) will make the first defense of his heavyweight title against Los Angeles’ Breazeale (17-0, 15 KOs) live on SHOWTIME at the sold-out The O2 arena in London.  The heavyweight showdown is the first of a multi-fight licensing agreement for Showtime Networks Inc., to be the exclusive U.S. television partner of Joshua, the 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist from London. 

 

Before the press conference, Breazeale and Joshua had to be separated.  Breazeale approached Joshua and was asked if there was a problem. “I don’t know, brother, I’ve just come here to get the belt,” Breazeale said. “On June 25, you’ve got a problem. You’re a bad man because you’ve got a belt now.

 

“This is not acting, it’s heavyweight boxing. You can act all big and bad in front of all these cameras and your promoters, but in the end you’ve got to put a mouthpiece in your mouth and gloves on your hands.”

 

Joshua then told Breazeale if he had a problem, they could “settle it man to man.” 

 

Here’s what Joshua and Breazeale had to say from the podium on Wednesday in London:

 

ANTHONY JOSHUA:

“There are a lot of positive things happening in boxing and a lot amazing things happening in my career at the moment.  But I know enough to realize that this is a dangerous sport and you are only as good as your last fight.  I fought and lost in the amateurs, and I know how quickly this can all change.  It’s my job now to prepare myself properly and to keep this momentum rolling. 

 

“Dominic and I are equals in many ways.  He came up around the same time I did, through the Olympic Games and all.  Now, with this U.S. TV deal with SHOWTIME and the deal with Sky Sports, Dominic Breazeale gets a chance to announce himself on the UK scene.  And I have the chance to do the same in the U.S.”

 

“I’ll never overlook, never drop the ball.  As far as I’m concerned, I am the underdog. I know every day of training camp and every hour of every day, where I am in my preparations leading up to a fight. We have less than seven weeks to go and we will be ready.” 

 

DOMINIC BREAZEALE:

“I am not here looking to see the final round.  I’m not here to look at the judges’ scorecards.  I am here to knock Anthony Joshua out. Period. 

 

“I am very excited.  I wish this fight was this weekend.” 

 

When asked if he expected to fare better than his counterpart, Charles Martin.

 

“We are two totally different fighters.  Anthony Joshua knows he is now getting in there with a beast.  He knows he is in for a dog fight.  He’s going to hit me and I am going to hit him.  And whoever’s will breaks first will lose this fight. 

 

“Charles Martin wasn’t prepared.  He dropped the ball.  He fought the wrong fight at the wrong time.  He had just won the belt, was excited about that, and he took the wrong fight.  I haven’t made that mistake.  I won’t make that mistake.” 

 

Here’s what the principals had to say during Wednesday’s teleconference with U.S. reporters:

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, SHOWTIME SPORTS Executive Vice President

 

“UK boxing is on fire right now. There are more UK champions than any other country right now and at SHOWTIME we pride ourselves on bringing our viewers the best fights and the best boxers on the planet, whether they be American, British or from any other country. It is no surprise that our desire, our quest to seek out the most talented and most exciting boxers on the planet, has led us to Eddie’s doorstep and to this deal with Anthony Joshua. We have been discussing this for quite some time. Eddie is a great advocate and ultimately Anthony’s performances have spoken for themselves.

 

“We had originally intended to put Anthony on SHOWTIME two fights ago but the logistics just didn’t work out, so we were fortunate enough to make his U.S. TV debut with the title fight against Charles Martin and now we’ve done a deal in which we’ve hopefully laid a foundation for hosting Anthony on SHOWTIME for the remainder of his career.

 

“It was bold of them for entrusting this portion of their career to SHOWTIME. There’s a wealth of good fights in the heavyweight division and most importantly of all, Eddie and Anthony are willing to take all of them.

 

“I’m not the biggest fan of multi-fight deals but when you have a promoter and a boxer who have committed to taking the best fights available, big or small, in the U.S. or the UK and anywhere else, it brings a lot of comfort to the network in doing those types of deals. From that perspective it was a no-brainer. We’re thrilled to have them.”

 

ANTHONY JOSHUA:

On coming to American and making statement:

“It’s a great opportunity to be on SHOWTIME because when I look back at my amateurs, I think that’s why I’ve had such a good career in Great Britain so far. It’s because people have been out to follow me since I was an amateur fighter. SHOWTIME worked with me on my first defense and now I get to build with the Americans. I’ve got friends out there and we’re going to build to a wider audience. If we can keep on building and growing organically, by the time I come out there it will be unbelievable. Just like I’m at home.”

 

On who he thinks will be his biggest challenge:

“I would have to say, Klitschko or Wilder. Klitschko because of the experience and Wilder because he’s the heavyweight champion of the world who’s defended his belt on multiple occasions. So I have to give him credit as the strong force of the division right now because he’s the only other champion  who has defended his belt. As far as Klitschko, he’s won the belt and defended it time and time again. Those two are the main names I’m looking at.”

 

On how his life has changed since becoming a heavyweight champ:

“I’ve had no time. It has been three weeks since the belt was won and I know it was nice for my family. They all had a great time and my mom is telling everyone. So it’s nice to see her enjoy the fruits of labor, but for me, we got straight to organizing the next project, which is why we’re here now.

 

“You’re not a real deal until you fight in the states, so I thought there was a plan. Eddie has been doing a great job in the background while I’ve been in the gym and they (Hearn and SHOWTIME) pulled something together that is unprecedented, historical. So, credit to the guys that put it together while we’re in the gym putting in the work. At first I was surprised because I didn’t understand the capacity of it, but now I’m looking forward to seeing how we build up things in America.”

 

On how it is being written about and talked about by credible boxing writers that he is the next big thing in boxing:

“I think that’s why it is important to stay fighting and in the gym. If you spend too long out of the gym then one event turns to two events; turns into the club after the event; turns into all of these expectations and promises, glitz and glamour get to you and I like to keep things (in place). I’ve got an unbelievable family, I’ve got friends around me that count as my family. I’ve got really good people that see me as the same Anthony that was a kid with them running around in the streets. The belt is a great achievement but I feel that why I’ve been so calm is that I think the sky is the limit, what we’re achieving so early on.

 

“I think I am capable of doing great things if I stay locked away in the gym and I think that is what is so important. To keep on improving time after time. I’ve got a long career ahead of me so I can’t let the expectations and the glitz and glamour get to me right now because it’s way too early for that right now.’’

 

On if he’s fighting to do something spectacular or look good:

“No, no, no. What I’ve been doing has been working, which has led me to this position. So, all the expectations can’t put pressure on me because it may lead to something that we’re not used to, like a slugfest or a type of fight like that. I need to maintain composure but I definitely need to be effective because I feel like I’ll win but what’s important is how I win. The pressure for me is trying to impress my coach. That is one of my main pressures.”

 

DOMINIC BREAZEALE:

On the heavyweight division having a bad rep in the past and on how Joshua and Breazeale are different than recent previous fighters:

 

“I think the biggest difference is that we are separating ourselves with being big athletic guys. Before, in the past, there were just big, strong, aggressive guys in the ring just slugging it out. We are showing some athletic ability as far as using the jab, moving around the ring, throwing combination punches and things like that. We’re kind of taking it back to the days when you saw heavyweight fights like Riddick Bowe and Evander Holyfield. Not necessarily just big stiff guys that are kind of stuck in the mud. I am fortunate to be in the division at the time being right now and I am looking forward to it.”

 

Thoughts of Martin-Joshua clash, Martin’s performance and what he will do differently:

“I was very upset with Charles Martin’s performance against Anthony Joshua. I was expecting him to put out a lot more, give it a lot more, but unfortunately he didn’t. That four minutes in two rounds were very, very disturbing. One of the differences between me and Charles is that I am not Charles Martin. I’m a big statured guy, a big athletic guy and a strong guy and Joshua knows best that he’s going to be in the ring with somebody who mirrors his image and just a little bit bigger than him, just a little bit heavier and just a little bit stronger than him. So, I plan on finding out if Anthony Joshua has got the legs and the lungs to go five, six, maybe seven rounds but at the same time I want to test his chin, test his body and see if he is the true heavyweight champ.’’

 

EDDIE HEARN, Matchroom Boxing

 

“Probably for three years now, I’ve been knocking on the doors of American networks, telling them about this great young fighter. They’ve all been keeping an eye on Anthony Joshua, for sure and the victory on April 9 over Charles Martin to become the IBF Heavyweight champion really opened the doors.

 

“Anthony Joshua is the biggest star in world boxing and now we have a position with Stephen Espinoza and SHOWTIME where we will move forward together in a multi-fight deal which we hope will not be five, six, or seven fights, we hope it will be for the entire career of Anthony Joshua, for the unification of the heavyweight division. And as I have I said, the birth and the evolution of the biggest star in world boxing today.

 

“SHOWTIME in my opinion is at the forefront of dynamic boxing programs in the U.S. I think the fights and the shows are continuously pushing the boundaries, not just in America, but outside of America as well. We were privileged to have Quigg vs. Frampton on SHOWTIME and Andy Lee against Billy Joe Saunders recently. They’re picking up the biggest fights in world boxing in many different territories.

 

“For us this is a groundbreaking day. For a UK promoter and a UK fighter to sign a multi-fight agreement with SHOWTIME, gives me a huge amount of great pleasure commercially. I think it’s a groundbreaking day for British boxing as well, I think we’re on fire at the moment. We’ve got 12 world champions; James DeGale just defended his world title on SHOWTIME last weekend and we have another world champion fight this week with [Anthony] Crolla, Ricky Burns and Tony Bellew are both fighting for world titles to become the 13th and 14th Brits to win world titles. I really feel like the atmosphere, the energy and the vibes of the show that we’re producing are second to none. The atmosphere is electric, the passion is through the roof of the arena and now the U.S. man is going to get a chance to witness it time and time again with Anthony Joshua.

 

“The plan for us is to evolve Anthony Joshua in various different markets which will lead to U.S. fights as well and I will work closely with Stephen [Espinoza] to see if that’s possible perhaps even in November of this year, but we want to make Anthony Joshua a global star and that includes fighting in America. I am so pleased that the U.S. public will get the opportunity to watch Anthony Joshua on the No. 1 boxing network in America.”

SHOWTIME SPORTS® SIGNS HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION ANTHONY JOSHUA TO EXCLUSIVE U.S. TELEVISION AGREEMENT

Britain’s Joshua To Defend IBF World Title Against American Dominic Breazeale

Saturday, June 25 at The O2 in London In First Fight Of New Deal

 

LONDON (May 4, 2016) – SHOWTIME Sports and Matchroom Boxing announced on Wednesday a multi-fight licensing agreement for Showtime Networks Inc., to be the exclusive U.S. television partner of undefeated heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua.  The announcement was made today at the Hilton Syon Park outside London by Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports and Eddie Hearn, President of Matchroom Sports.

 

The multi-fight agreement kicks-off on Saturday, June 25 when Joshua, a British sensation, attempts to make the first defense of his IBF Heavyweight World Championship against undefeated American challenger Dominic Breazeale at the sold-out The O2 arena in London.  The addition of this heavyweight title fight, airing live on Showtime Networks in the late afternoon, bolsters a big day for boxing as later that evening on CBS, SHOWTIME will present the first live primetime boxing event on the CBS Television Network in nearly 40 years.

 

Joshua, 26, has compiled a perfect knockout record of 16-0 with 16 knockouts since turning professional shortly after winning the 2012 Olympic Gold Medal.  Earlier this year, Joshua earned the IBF world championship with a second-round knockout of defending champion Charles Martin on SHOWTIME, earning a heavyweight belt in the fewest number of fights in more than 20 years.  Further, Joshua is just the sixth Olympic Gold Medalist at super heavyweight to go on to win a professional heavyweight world title joining Joe Frazier, George Foreman, Lennox Lewis, Wladimir Klitschko and Alexander Povetkin.

 

The 30-year-old Breazeale (17-0, 15 KOs) has knocked out nearly 90 percent of his opponents since turning professional after representing the United States at the 2012 Olympics.  Standing at 6-foot-7, the Los Angeles native is one inch taller than the 6-foot-6 Joshua.  The former NCAA football quarterback is coming off a career-best victory of previously once-beaten Amir Mansour on Jan. 23.

 

Joshua vs. Breazeale will be the fifth heavyweight title bout to air live on SHOWTIME in the first six months of 2016, joining a stellar schedule that features many of the top-rated fighters in boxing’s deepest and most exciting divisions.

 

Also on Saturday, June 25, Keith Thurman will defend his WBA Welterweight World Championship against former titlist Shawn Porter in a blockbuster matchup of two of the world’s best 147-pound fighters, live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.  In the co-main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar will defend his title against former three-division world champion Abner Mares.

 

EDITORS NOTE:  A press conference is currently underway in London.  Quotes and photos to follow.  A media teleconference for U.S. press with Joshua, Stephen Espinoza (Executive Vice President & General Manager of SHOWTIME Sports) and Eddie Hearn (President of Matchroom Sport) begins at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT.

 

Click HERE For Joshua Images Courtesy Matchroom Sport

BADOU JACK & JAMES DEGALE SET FOR FALL SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT UNIFICATION AFTER JACK DRAWS WITH LUCIAN BUTE & DEGALE DEFENDS AGAINST ROGELIO MEDINA SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®

Catch The Replay Monday At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®
Click HERE To Download Photos; Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
Click HERE To Download Photos; Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions
Interview With Promoter Floyd Mayweather: http://s.sho.com/1TCWl6u
WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 30, 2016) – Badou Jack retained his WBC Super Middleweight title in a controversial draw against Lucian Bute Saturday on SHOWTIME, setting up a fall unification with IBF champion James DeGale, who defended his IBF crown against Rogelio Medina in the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast from the DC Armory.
“Let’s unify the decision and see who the best is,” DeGale said to Jack in a post-fight interview moderated by SHOWTIME Sports reporter Jim Gray.
“I’m ready in September, ready in August,” responded Jack.”  “I’m ready whenever.  Let’s do it where it makes the most sense financially.”
Jack was the sharper fighter from the opening bell, committing to pounding the body of the former long-time titlist.  Facing his second southpaw, Jack prevented Bute from fighting his game, smothering the Romania-born Canadian whenever he attempted to fight on the inside.
While Jack varied his punches with a diverse attack to the body and head, he slowed in the latter rounds and allowed Bute to climb his way back into the fight.  Bute had perhaps his best round in the 10th and closed the show well, in the 11th and 12th.  But it was too little too late for Bute, who escaped D.C. with what most felt was an undeserved draw.
“Bullshit, but is what it is.  Ask Bute as well, he knows what time it is,” said Jack, who landed nearly 100 more punches than Bute, including 61 percent of his power punches, and 40 percent total of his total shots.  “His punches weren’t hurting me.  I feel I won the fight.  Maybe I lost the last round.  He’s a great guy and a great champion, but I know I won the fight.
“It’s not Bute’s fault, it’s the judges.  People saw I won the fight.”
The 36-year-old Bute certainly looked like a fighter with plenty left in the tank, rejuvenated under trainer Howard Grant with his sights set on the new crop of stars in the super middleweight division.
“It was a close fight,” said Bute, who connected at just a 21 percent rate with his total punches.  “Believe me, it was very close fight.  My last fight with DeGale was very close, tonight was a very close fight.  I showed everyone I’m still at the top.”
James DeGale defended his IBF Super Middleweight World Championship with a close, hard-fought unanimous decision against Rogelio Medina in the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast.
DeGale was supremely accurate, landing 51 percent of his power punches compared to just 23 for Medina, including a staggering 66 percent of his power punches.  The switch-hitting southpaw attacked from unorthodox angles, and was most effective when he snuck in a right uppercut to back up Medina.  But the British titlist – a record 12th from Great Britain – failed to utilize his jab and was not able to deliver on his prediction of a knockout inside of six rounds.
“The boxing skills are too good,” DeGale said.  “If I’m being honest, he’s a very strong fighter, but skills pay the bills.  I watched this guy years ago and he didn’t have the engine like that.  He’s gotten better and stronger in the last year and a half.
“I’m a bit disappointed – I should be taking out people like Porky Medina, no disrespect to him.
“I’m always learning in the gym.  My inside work, my defense, my concentration.  I’m going to go back to the gym, I’m going to work and I’ll be ready in September.
“I want Badou Jack.  I want a fresh name on my record.”
Medina, on the other hand, nearly doubled DeGale, throwing 1,140 total punches, compared to 612 in the best performance of his career, but not enough to dethrone the champion.  The Mexican challenger pounded the body and was at his best with DeGale against the ropes, striking the British champion with a killer left hook to the body.
“He said he was going to stop me.  He was running all around and he didn’t stop me like he said he would,” said Medina, who’s seven losses have come against fighters with a combined record of 131-2-2.  “He’s the only one who thinks he won.  The fans think I won.  I definitely want the rematch.”
Saturday’s event was promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in association with Matchroom Boxing.
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. 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.
# # #
 
For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

Badou Jack, Lucian Bute, James DeGale & Rogelio Medina Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXINGâ Doubleheader

This Saturday, April 30 From the DC Armory in Washington, D.C.

 

 

Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 28, 2016) – Four of the top super middleweights in the world shared a stage Thursday afternoon as Badou Jack, Lucian Bute, James DeGale and Rogelio Medina participated in the final press conference for their fights this Saturday, April 30 on  SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING from the DC Armory in Wash28ington, D.C.

 

Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIMEâ and features the WBC champion Jack battling the former champion Bute, while the IBF titleholder DeGale takes on the top rated contender Medina. The winners of these fights have agreed to meet in a world title unification later this year.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in

association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations, or call (800) 745-3000.

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

 

BADOU JACK

 

“Both of us can punch, both of us can box. Anything can happen inside of that ring. I’m always ready to go 12 rounds. Everyone knows that I’m always in shape.

 

“Anything can happen, but I want to fight James DeGale. First I have to take care of business with Lucian Bute. Both of us are in our primes. We’re young and confident and it would be a great fight.

 

“I have to take care of this former champion. He’s a really good fighter. Some people say it’s a 50-50 fight so I have to take this very seriously.

 

“I’m still training and preparing for this fight like I’m the challenger. That’s how I prepare for every fight and this is no different.

 

“A lot of people wrote me off and I came back stronger. I love when people doubt me. I come back stronger and show people I’m a world class fighter.

 

“I’ve always believed in myself. I’m mentally strong and I work hard. I had a setback but it just made me hungrier and it made me a better fighter.”

 

LUCIAN BUTE

 

“I’m thankful for this big opportunity to fight for the WBC title. My training camp was very good. I feel stronger. It’s two days until the big stage.

 

“I worked very hard for this opportunity. To be a two-time champion is a dream. On Saturdaynight you will see a new champion.

 

“I feel great. The pressure is not on my shoulders now. I’m not the champion, I’m the outsider. Badou is the champion and I think the pressure is on him. I came to Washington D.C. to perform, give the fans a good show Saturday night and the chance to become a champion for the second time

 

“I put on a good show against DeGale and that’s what led to this shot. I’m very blessed to be in this fight for a world title.

 

“Badou is a good fighter. He has a good background in amateur boxing, he’s a world champion, but he has nothing special. He does everything good but not exceptionally. I have more experience, more speed and I’m a southpaw. I think the advantage is on my side.

 

“I never considered retiring but there were three years where I had some physical and psychological obstacles. Now I’m back to being in big fights and I’m looking forward to taking Badou Jack’s belt.

 

“This is going to be a spectacular fight. I want to look good in there and leave no doubt. I’m more aggressive than I ever have been and that will make it a great fight. I’m here to stop Badou Jack.”

 

JAMES DEGALE

 

“Fight time is here. I’m feeling good and feeling fresh.

 

“Porky Medina is a good fighter. But there are levels to pro boxing and I am levels above him.

 

Saturday night I’m going to show you a real performance. My last two fights have gone the distance, but this time it won’t.

 

“I’m the best 168-pounder out there. I’m here to prove that. There is no one out there that can test me. There are big fights out there and good guys, but I believe I’m the best.

 

“I like this tournament style. It’s the best boxing the best. It should always be like this.

 

“I’m starting to build a massive fan base back home and I haven’t even boxed at home as a world champion. Me and Badou Jack would be a massive fight in the UK with two titles on the line.

 

“I’ve got everything covered with my game plan, trust me. I’ve gone extremely hard in the gym.  We’ve watched tapes of him and I’m feeling good.

 

“This fight I need to make a statement. On my last two fights, I’ve gone the distance and they’ve been against top quality elite fighters. This time – no disrespect to Porky Medina – a good fighter in his own right but he shouldn’t last the distance with me so I look forward to a good performance.

 

“Good luck to both men, but I’m coming for the winner of Jack vs. Bute. I want to unify the division.”

 

ROGELIO MEDINA

 

“I’m the youngest fighter on this stage. I’m also the hungriest fighter. This is the biggest opportunity of my career.

 

“I’m here to give it my all and take the most of this opportunity on Saturday night. My dream is to be a world champion and it is right in front of me.

 

“I feel very excited. I’m ready to go because of the long layoff. It has been a while but I have been in the gym. I’ve been training for many months and even though I haven’t had a fight, I have been training.

 

“I think that DeGale has a lot of good qualities as a fighter and I think that the fight is going to be very intense because I’ve been training hard for it. I’ve been training to put pressure on him and to make it an intense fight and try and knock him out.

 

“I’ve noticed that he’s a quick fighter, he’s fast. He’s got good technique but I also see that he sometimes likes to stand and trade and I hope that he decides to stand and trade with me so we can give the fans a good fight.

 

“A win would be the biggest moment of my career. It would have a lot of significance. Historically in Mexico I would become only the second super middleweight champion, which would be very important to boxing and myself.”

 

 

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