M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

Joe “Diesel” Riggs vs. undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov on June 1st in Russia

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SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (April 27, 2018) – Eternal confrontation: experience vs. youth will continue June 1st at M-1 Challenge 93 in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

 

 

 

Undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov (10-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0), who was mentioned by Fighters Only Magazine among the 20 top MMA prospects for 2018, will defend his title for the first time against American favorite Joe “Diesel” Riggs (47-17-1, M-1: 2-0-1).  Frolov is known as a well-rounded fighter who has defeated all ten of his opponents, four of which he knocked out, and the other four submitted. Last October, Frolov captured the belt by defeating UFC veteran Caio Magalhaes, of Brazil, by unanimous decision, but he needed a break to heal his injuries.

 

 

 

 

At the same event, Riggs got his second victory in M-1 Global competition, extending his winning streak to six fights, all ended by TKO. Another impressive victory earned “Diesel” his title-shot and he is ready to add another championship belt to his collection. Since the champ (Frolov) could not fight and Riggs wanted to stay active, he took another fight against Ukrainian wrestler Borys Polezhai (18-6-0), which ended in a draw. “Diesel” was clearly not satisfied with that result, but his impressive unbeaten streak helped him get the June 1st title shot. Riggs, of course, will bring do his best to become world champion once again.

 

 

 

 

Will Riggs get his 48th career victory and bring another title back home to Arizona or will it be an easy job for the young Frolov?

 

 

 

 

Russian star Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko (56-10-1, 1 NC, M-1: 6-0-0) headlines M-1 Challenge 93 against Brazilian power-puncher Bruno Silva (17-6-0, M-1: 0-0-0).

 

 

 

 

Watch the event in the M-1 Global app, on M1Global.com or on FITE.TV for just $7.99 and enjoy a dozen stunning fights from the best European promotion M-1 Global!

 

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.M1Global.tv

www.mixfight.ru

www.wmmaa.org

 

 

 

 

Twitter & Instagram:

 

@M1GlobalNews

@VFinkelchtein

@M1Global

 

 

 

 

Facebook:

 

www.facebook.com/M-1-GlobalNews

 

 

 

 

Upcoming M-1 Challenge Events:

May 12 – M-1 Challenge 91: Doskalchuk vs. Ashimov in Shenzhen, China.

May 24 – M-1 Challenge 92: Kharitonov vs. Vyazigin in Saint Petersburg, Russia

June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights, women's MMA

THIRD WOMEN’S MMA FIGHT ADDED TO NEF 34 CARD IN PORTLAND

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Portland, Maine (April 27, 2018) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to Aura in Portland, Maine with its next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 34: Home of the Brave,” on Saturday night, June 16, 2018.  Earlier today, the fight promotion announced the addition of an amateur women’s catchweight bout to the card.  Chelsea Tucker (0-2) will return to the NEF cage to take on the debuting Glory Watson (0-0) at a fight weight of 130-pounds.

 

 

 

Chelsea Tucker, a member of First Class MMA of Brunswick, Maine, is a native of Williamsburg, Virginia.  She has served her country as a veteran of the United States Coast Guard.  Tucker has twice entered the NEF cage to compete in MMA bouts.  She lost to Sarah Matulis (1-0) via TKO last fall at “NEF 31.”  She returned to meet Catie Denning (1-0) in February at “NEF 32.”  Tucker forced Denning to a decision, but lost on the judges’ scorecards.  Earlier this month, Tucker entered the NEF cage for a third time to grapple Carol Linn Powell (0-1) on the opener of “NEF 33.”  Tucker and Powell went to a five-minute draw. 

 

 

 

“I look forward to stepping into the cage with Glory,” said Tucker.  “It’s always an honor to step into the cage with anyone who puts in the time and work. She comes from a very good gym and so do I.  I have some great sparring partners and coaches. I’m excited to show what I have learned every time I make an appearance.”

 

 

 

“NEF 34” will be the debut of Glory Watson in the MMA cage.  Watson is a product of Young’s MMA of Bangor, Maine where she is a teammate of Catie Denning who defeated Chelsea Tucker earlier this year.  She is eager to test the skills she has picked up from her team in the cage this June.

 

 

 

“I’m looking forward to stepping into the cage to represent Young’s MMA,” said Watson.  “I love this sport, and am excited to show what I can do. I am thankful to the NEF for this opportunity to put the skills I have learned to the test.”

 

 

 

 

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 34: Home of the Brave,” will take place at Aura in Portland, Maine on Saturday, June 16, 2018.  Tickets are on-sale now online at www.AuraMaine.com.

 

Bellator, boxing, FNU Combat Sports Show, mixed martial arts, MMA, Rich Bergeron, Tom Padgett, Tony Penecale

FNU Combat Sports Show: Lee vs. Barboza Recap, Wilder Camp Offers $50 Million to Joshua for Boxing Superfight, etc.

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This week Tom, Tony and Rich recap last week’s UFC Fight Night, all the boxing action from last Saturday, and all the biggest combat sports stories of the week, including the funeral of Wrestling Legend Bruno Sanmartino. We also preview upcoming events, with Tom and Rich making a push-up bet on Fedor vs. Mir in this Saturday’s Bellator Main Event.

Listen to the whole broadcast below:

 

boxing

ATLANTIC CITY BOXING HALL OF FAME PRESENT “FIGHT FAN EXPERIENCE” ON SATURDAY, JUNE 2ND AT THE CLARIDGE HOTEL

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Atlantic City, N.J. – April 26th, 2018 – As part of the 2nd annual induction weekend, the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame presents the “ACBHOF Fight Fan Experience” which will take place on Saturday, June 2nd at The Claridge Hotel.

 

 

 

“The Fight Fan Experience” is a bonus for boxing fans to an already action-packed weekend that will include a Meet-And-Greet, two professional fight cards, and induction ceremonies.

 

 

 

“The Fight Fan Experience” includes the opportunity to rub shoulders and meet some of the legends of boxing, as well as view the Jack Johnson Exhibit, “Smokin” Joe Frazier Legacy Exist Exhibit, the great sculptures of James O’Neal and Philly Boxing History Exhibit. Fans will experience music by DJ Young Hitta, interactive activities, participation in a Pop-Up Boxing Gym, an opportunity to view and buy Icons of Boxing Memorabilia, and back by popular demand our pop-up barbershop styled by A True Gentleman’s Barber Shop Polo’s Lounge plus much more.

 

 

 

“The Fight Fan Experience will begin at 12 pm and run to 4 PM. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $25 for the Souvenir Package.

 

 

 

Tickets can be purchased online at www.acbhof.com and rooms can be booked by visitingwww.claridge.com. A discounted room rate is available until April 30th by using promo code: ACBHOF.

 

 

 

“Last year the Fight Fan Experience was a major hit, and this year we have many more activities and displays for the great boxing fans who come through on Saturday, June 2nd,” said Ray McCline, President of the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

“The Induction weekend is a full-plate for everyone who attends, and the “Fight Fan Experience” will deliver a great time with so many different things that it is sure to satisfy their boxing palate.

 

 

 

All interested sponsors, exhibitors, and vendors who would like to reserve a booth, contact the ACBHOF at (609) 318 -3188 or info@acbhof.com or acbhof@gmail.com.

The Claridge: A Raddison Hotel is a cooperate Sponsor and host venue.

A big thank you to our Sponsors:

Combate Americas, mixed martial arts, MMA, women's MMA

COMBATE AMERICAS KNOCKS OUT THE COMPETITION WITH RECORD RATINGS

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Over 4.6 Million Television Viewers Tune In For “Combate Estrellas I” Across Univision And Univision Deportes Network In The U.S. And Azteca 7 in Mexico

 

U.S. Television Ratings Increase By 10 Percent with “Combate Estrellas II”
 On Friday, April 20

 

Sponsors Included Anheuser-Busch’s Estrella Jalisco, Advanced Auto Parts, Double Cross Vodka, Hot 6 Energy Drink and Battle Boom Gaming

 

 

NEW YORK– April 26, 2018– Combate Americas today announced ratings for its first two live, 2018 events – “Combate Estrellas I” and “Combate Estrellas II” – which also marked the historic, first-ever live Univision and Univision Deportes Network (UDN) televised Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) events, on Friday, April 13 and Friday, April 20, respectively.

 

Despite its start time of midnight ET in the United States, “Combate Estrellas I” delivered a total of 583,000 persons 2+, including 296,000 adults in the coveted 18-49 age group, on the Univision and Univision Deportes Network simulcast, beating Bellator 197, which aired in primetime on the Paramount Network.

 

In Mexico, the event delivered over 4 million live broadcast television viewers on Azteca 7.

 

The Facebook LIVE stream of the “Combate Estrellas I” preliminary bout card, which immediately preceded the 90-minute live television airing of the main card, delivered over 294,000 streams.

 

“The amazing growth of our TV ratings confirms we are the hottest MMA promotion in the world,” said Combate Americas CEO Campbell McLaren.

 

Airing exclusively on UDN in the midnight ET slot the following Friday, April 20, “Combate Estrellas II” delivered another 200,000 total viewers, a 10 percent increase from the first installment of the two-part, “Combate Estrellas” live event series.

Of the total UDN viewers for “Combate Estrellas II,” 67 percent were in the 18-49 age group.

 

The Facebook LIVE stream of the “Combate Estrellas II” preliminary bout card garnered over 630,000 streams, more than doubling the online audience from one week earlier.

 

Like Combate Americas, advertisers also emerged victorious from the record-ratings.

 

“We were thrilled to partner with Anheuser-Busch’s Estrella Jalisco, Advanced Auto Parts, Double Cross Vodka, HOT 6 Energy Drink and Battle Boom Gaming for the event, which allowed them to engage with the consumer on location, as well as reaching millions of consumers through multi-platforms with respective key brand messaging,” said Combate Americas CRO, Mike Pine. “Combate Americas is the only MMA engine in existence today that serves 100 percent a Hispanic demographic, allowing brands to streamline and reach the fastest growing population in the world and a consumer set that will spend close to $1.7 trillion in 2018.”

 

The bantamweight (135 pounds) main event of “Combate Estrellas I” at The Shrine in Los Angeles, Calif. saw Jose “Pochito” Alday (11-3) of Mexico edge out a split decision over superstar John “Sexi Mexi” Castaneda (16-4) of the U.S., while the flyweight (125 pounds) co-main event featured the MMA debut of five-division world boxing champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (0-0-1) who, representing Puerto Rico, valiantly fought Corina Herrera (3-4-1) of the U.S. to a draw.

 

In the first live televised fight of the night, ferocious, featherweight (145 pounds) rising star Jose “Froggy” Estrada (5-1) of the U.S. score a second round (1:43) TKO (knees and punches) on “Ruthless” Rudy Morales (5-6) of Guatemala.

 

Amongst the celebrities who took in the action at The Shrine were Diego Boneta, Camila, Cynthia Olavarria, Victoria La Mala, Flor de Toloache and Forggie.

 

In the bantamweight main event of “Combate Estrellas II” at Gimnasio Nuevo Leon in Monterrey, Mexico, world-ranked superstar and Monterrey native Erik “Goyito” Perez (18-6) avenged a previous defeat at the hands of David “D.J.” Fuentes (13-10) of McAllen, Texas, U.S., scoring a third round (1:22) KO (punches) on Fuentes while, in the bantamweight co-main event, Marcelo “Pitbull” Rojo (14-5) of Cordoba, Argentina decimated Fabian Galvan (8-3) of Monterrey via first round (2:34) knockout (punch).

 

Leading off the live telecast, 20-year-old sensation Melissa “Super Melly” Martinez (4-0) extended her unbeaten run by earning a dominant, unanimous decision over Ivanna Martinenghi (4-2) of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

 

Combate Americas returns to UDN on Friday, April 27, beginning at 12 a.m. ET/9 p.m. PT, with “Combate Estrellas III,” a compilation of the best, non-televised fight action from the “Combate Estrellas I” and “Combate Estrellas II” preliminary bout cards.

 

Source: Nielsen, NPM, L+SD data

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION RETURNING TO NEF CAGE IN PORTLAND

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Portland, Maine (April 26, 2018) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to Aura in Portland, Maine with its next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 34: Home of the Brave,” on Saturday night, June 16, 2018.  Earlier today, the fight promotion announced the addition of a professional lightweight bout to the card.  Reigning NEF MMA Professional Lightweight Champion “The” Ryan Sanders (15-9) will face Vince McGuiness (5-7) in a non-title bout at a fight weight of 155-pounds.

 

 

 

Ryan Sanders has had a storied career in the NEF cage.  He competed in, and won, the main event of the very first NEF card in February 2012 over veteran Dan Keefe (7-3).  Sanders fought on ten of the first fifteen NEF cards, including the company’s co-promotion with Bellator in the spring of 2013.  After more than a two-year absence from NEF, Sanders returned to the promotion in August 2016 and went on a five-fight win-streak over the course of the next year – the longest streak of his career.  During that stint, Sanders captured his first gold in NEF – the coveted professional lightweight title – with a victory over Jon Lemke (7-8) last spring.  The bout with McGuiness will be Sanders’ first in the NEF cage since August 2017.  He will be looking to bounce back from a loss in Massachusetts last month.  Sanders is a longtime member of Bangor, Maine’s Young’s MMA fight team.

 

 

 

“I’m ecstatic to be back fighting for the NEF, it has been too long,” said Sanders. “I’m back to show the fans that I’m the best lightweight in the region, and that I’m on the road to be the best lightweight in the world. I really appreciate Vince taking this fight. I look forward to showing my improvements and the work that I’ve been putting in while away from the cage. I have great coaches, teammates, and an amazing wife in my corner that makes me truly feel unstoppable. Come watch me take another step towards my destiny on June 16 in Portland.”

 

 

 

A native of Brooklyn, New York and current head coach of Bang Muay Thai in Tampa, Florida, Vince McGuiness is no stranger to the New England MMA scene.  His two most recent fights have been in Massachusetts, and McGuiness has even competed previously on a Portland fight card in 2015.  He will be looking to rebound against Sanders after losing his last four bouts in the cage.

 

 

 

“I’m excited to be back in New England fighting again,” said McGuiness. “I always get love up there. I’m ready to put on a scrap!”

 

 

 

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 34: Home of the Brave,” will take place at Aura in Portland, Maine on Saturday, June 16, 2018.  Tickets are on-sale now online at www.AuraMaine.com.

boxing

“Lil Pacquiao” Resendiz added to June 16 card in St Petersburg, FL

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JR.jpg

 

 

 

St. Petersburg, FL (April 26, 2018) – Featherweight Jose “Lil’ Pacquiao” Resendiz will face Vincent Jennings in a six round contest as part of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions’ June 16 card at The Coliseum in St. Petersburg.

 

 

 

Tickets are on sale now at https://www1.ticketmaster.com/event/0D00548D9F1C967E.

 

 

 

With a physical and stylistic resemblance to boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, Resendiz built a strong fan base and rewards supporters with an all-action style. Originally from Mexico but now fighting out of St. Petersburg, Resendiz is 5-1 with 3 knockouts. He owns impressive wins over Mohamed El Marcouchi (2-0) and Raul Chirino (7-1), mercifully stopping the latter in a brilliant performance.

 

 

 

His lone defeat came under extremely seedy circumstances and many argue he should’ve won by disqualification. In that contest, Resendiz badly hurt unbeaten Joshua Pagan with a body shot in the final minute of the bout and looked for the knockout. A fan literally jumped onto the ring apron and took a swing at Resendiz’ head, forcing the referee to stop the fight and restore order. This also allowed Pagan unexpected time to recover and he ultimately claimed a split decision victory.

 

 

 

Hailing from Grand Rapids, MI, Jennings is 5-5-1 with 4 KO’s. The 33-year-old has been matched extremely tough, facing four consecutive unbeaten opponents in their backyard. Jennings dropped multiple controversial decisions and has a win over contender Dennis Galarza.

 

 

 

“I’m very excited to have Jose on the card,” said Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions. “He really does fight a lot like Manny Pacquiao and fans love that style but he’ll have his hands full with a very gritty opponent in Vincent Jennings who has already shown his willingness to fight anybody, anywhere at any time.”

 

 

 

This excellent evening of boxing features eight bouts, headlined by an exciting 10 round NBA middleweight showdown between 7-0 Irish sensation Connor “The Kid” Coyle and Orlando, FL’s Danny Pastrana. Tampa cruiserweight Nicholas “Showstopper” Iannuzzi, 19-4 (11 KO’s), meets Puerto Rican Vincent Miranda, 17-2 (9 KO’s), in the eight round co-feature.

 

 

 

Crowd favorites Ricky “Cowboy” Tomlinson, Ali Tarah, Joseph Fernandez, Kendrick Thomas and Rodriguez Cade will all appear in

separate undercard bouts.

 

 

 

All fights are pending Florida State Athletic Commission approval.

 

 

 

For more information on Fire Fist Boxing Promotions, go to Firefistboxing.net or Facebook.com/firefistboxing.

 

boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Josesito Lopez vs. Miguel Cruz, Anthony Dirrell vs. Abraham Han & Jorge Lara vs. Claudio Marrero Tripleheader Saturday, April 28 Live on FOX & FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ruben Ramirez

EL PASO, TX. (April 25, 2018) – Rugged veteran Josesito Lopez and unbeaten Miguel Cruz faced-off Thursday and discussed their upcoming showdown Saturday, April 28 as part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas.

 

 

 

Also squaring-off Thursday and competing in PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes action that begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT were former world champion Anthony Dirrell and El Paso’s Abraham Han, who meet in a 10 round super middleweight clash, and featherweight brawlers Jorge Lara and Claudio Marrero, who compete in a 10 round fight.

 

 

 

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

 

 

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Don Haskins Center:

 

 

 

JOSESITO LOPEZ

 

 

 

“I’m well prepared for this fight, I’ve had a great camp with Robert Garcia. I have a tough unbeaten opponent who’s really good. I just have to prove I’m better on Saturday night.

 

 

 

“I’m so excited to be finally fighting in Texas and I’ve gotten so much love and support already from this city. I can’t wait to give these fans a show.

 

 

 

“This is the kind of fight that I can really display my skills. I’m going to show everyone the same heart that I always do, combined with some skills that Robert Garcia has helped get.

 

 

 

“I’m going to be prepared for anything on Saturday. Cruz is unbeaten and that brings its own kind of mentality. I know I have what it takes to conquer this challenge and fight the best in the division.

 

 

 

“This is going to be a textbook Josesito Lopez performance. I’m going to fight my hardest from bell to bell and take this victory home with me.”

 

 

 

MIGUEL CRUZ

 

 

 

“El Paso has been great to me and I’ve really enjoyed my time here. I’m in this city to fight. I’m here to come and prove myself in this welterweight division.

 

 

 

“I have respect for what Josesito’s done in the game, but at the end of the day, this is the premier division in boxing. I feel I’m one of the best guys at 147 and I’ll be here for a while. I’m going to be a force.

 

 

 

“I know Josesito is bringing the fight and I promise you I’m bringing it as well. I will come out on top. This is a can’t miss fight for sure.

 

 

 

“I have to be smart and execute my game plan round after round. My jab will be key and if I can use that and wear him down to the body, I think I’ll have a great chance to stop him.

 

 

 

“I know what it takes to win at this level now. I’ve gotten better each fight and I think my time is now. People are going to know my name after Saturday night.”

 

 

 

ANTHONY DIRRELL

 

 

 

“I plan on going in there and getting the victory. I know Han is a great fighter who will bring the best out of me. That’s what I need right now.

 

 

 

“Come Saturday it’s going to be just another fight for me. I take everybody seriously. I know that anything can happen in that ring. I prepared well for this fight and I’m ready to get the win.

 

 

 

“Everyone knows that I’m a championship-caliber fighter and I’ll prove it again on Saturday. After this fight, I’m ready to take on any of the super middleweight champions. I’ll beat any of them.

 

 

 

“I’m the best fighter that he’s ever going to fight and he will see that on Saturday. I’m going to leave no doubt.”

 

 

 

ABRAHAM HAN

 

 

 

“I’ve fought in many other people’s backyards so being able to fight here in my hometown is amazing. I turn it up to a different level here. The crowd will give me a big boost in energy and it’s going to help me get the win.

 

 

 

“I hope the sports fans of El Paso come out and watch me put on a great performance. I know the type of challenge I have in front of me, but I also know that I have the skills to pull this off.

 

 

 

 

“This is a great opportunity to show people outside of El Paso what kind of fighter I really am. I have a lot of experience and I’ve fought all over, but I don’t know if I’ve ever been more prepared for a fight.

 

 

 

“Anthony Dirrell is a great champion but I’m a champion of this city. This is my chance to take down a big name and move to the next level of the sport.”

 

 

 

JORGE LARA

 

 

 

“I’m going to leave the ring Saturday night with my hand raised. I’ve had a wonderful training camp and I prepared perfectly for this fight. It will show on fight night.

 

 

 

“Marrero better be ready, because I’m going to come at him and look for the kill early. I want to make a statement and I’ll go through him to make it.

 

 

 

“I’m very focused and ready to take home this win on Saturday night. The fans are going to love my style and the heart that I fight with.”

 

 

 

CLAUDIO MARRERO

 

 

 

“I hope that Jorge Lara is ready to fight on Saturday night. This is going to be a battle and I know that we’ll both leave everything in the ring.

 

 

 

“I prepared well for this fight because I know that everything is on the line for me. I have to be victorious so I can go on and get where I want to in boxing.

 

 

 

“I’m more skilled and more experienced than anyone that Lara has faced and on Saturday night I’m going to give him lots of problems.”

 

 

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.tgbpromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @FOXTV, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available atwww.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

 

boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes El Paso Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Josesito Lopez vs. Miguel Cruz, Anthony Dirrell vs. Abraham Han & Jorge Lara vs. Claudio Marrero Tripleheader Saturday, April 28 Live on FOX & FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ruben Ramirez

EL PASO, TX. (April 25, 2018) – Fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes card, headlined by Josesito Lopez battling Miguel Cruz in welterweight action, participated in a media workout Wednesday in El Paso before they step into the ring at Don Haskins Center.

 

 

 

Also participating in the workout was former world champion Anthony Dirrell and El Paso’s Abraham Han, who meet in a 10 round super middleweight clash, and featherweight brawlers Jorge Lara and Claudio Marrero, who compete in a 10 round fight.

 

 

 

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

 

 

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Wolves Den Gym in El Paso:

 

 

 

JOSESITO LOPEZ

 

 

 

“Having Robert Garcia in my corner has given me the training and preparation of an elite fighter. It’s a big difference. He’s one of the best trainers in the world and I’m going to help show that on Saturday.

 

 

 

“I’ve been training with Robert for quite some time now. I’ve been getting sharp working with other elite fighters in the gym. It’s kept me on my toes and that’s what I needed.

 

 

 

“Cruz is tough, he’s undefeated and he comes focused to win. He’s a good fighter but I’m here this week to prove that I’m a better fighter.

 

 

 

“Experience will definitely play a big part. But I also don’t think he’s faced anyone with the skills I have. All of my losses are to great fighters. I feel like I’ve taken a big step forward here.

 

 

 

“It feels great to be headlining in El Paso on FOX and FOX Deportes. I bring exciting fights and I’m always in wars. Saturday will be no different.

 

 

 

“I’m really excited to finally be fighting in Texas, it’s something I’ve looked for and asked about for many years. Texas holds a big piece of my heart and I’m ready to give the fans here a show on Saturday.”

 

 

 

MIGUEL CRUZ

 

 

 

“This was an excellent training camp. It was a hard camp. It was extensive but I got through it and it has me feeling very prepared. It was absolutely the most strenuous camp I’ve had. I always train hard, but this one in particular, I had extra motivation.

 

 

 

“To get the win I need to use my jab and work the body. There are more aspects of it, but those two things are essential for me winning this fight.

 

 

 

“I’ve fought a lot of good, young, strong fighters recently. Past a certain level you learn that you can’t just knock everybody out. You learn to weather the storm and use your energy more efficiently. I’ve learned a lot about myself as a fighter.

 

 

 

“Josesito throws looping punches. That’s tough because it’s a bit unconventional. He throws looping punches that can take away your equilibrium. He’s got a lot of experience and that’s definitely a major factor in what I’ve been preparing for.

 

 

 

“It feels great to be on this stage, but at the same time I know I earned my spot to be here. I remember watching Josesito fighting in 2011 on the Mayweather vs. Ortiz undercard and I knew right then that I was going to be in the ring with these guys.”

 

 

 

ANTHONY DIRRELL

 

 

 

“I had a great, eight-week long training camp with great sparring. I feel good and I’m ready to fight for sure.

 

 

 

“I know that Han is a warrior. He’s rugged and that’s why I chose to fight him here in his backyard. I know that he’s going to bring a fight for me.

 

 

 

“It’s just going to be me and him in the ring. The audience can’t help him. All his fans can’t help him. Coaches can only help him between rounds. I’m going to block everything else out and just focus on him.

 

 

 

“I just need to stick to what we worked on in training camp. We have to implement those strategies and you’ll see it come Saturday night.

 

 

 

“I’m a better, stronger and wiser fighter these days. I’ve been through a lot to stay in world title contention. Everybody knows how badly I want my title back. On Saturday, everyone will see that I’m a champion. I’m ready for anyone with a belt.”

 

 

 

ABRAHAM HAN

 

 

 

“I’m so happy to be fighting at home on this big stage. In many ways this is a dream come true and something that’s been a long time coming. I can’t wait to perform in front of my people.

 

 

 

“I know I’m the underdog versus Dirrell but that doesn’t bother me at all. I always train to be better than anyone expects me to be. This fight will be no difference.

 

 

 

“This is a big fight for me and I’ve been training so hard to put on a great show for my hometown fans. This is a great fight town and I’m going to give the fans something to cheer about.”

 

 

 

JORGE LARA

 

 

 

“I’m so excited to get in the ring. I’m still eating right now leading up to the weigh-in and I feel ready to go. I’m eager to step into the ring.

 

 

 

“I’m not worried about Claudio Marrero. I’m just staying loose and focused on what I have to do. Marrero has to focus on me because he’s never fought a guy like me. I’m going to stay loose and bring the fight to him.

 

 

 

“The world title is my destiny. This is one shot closer to a world title. I’m highly ranked but the champions don’t want to give me a chance. So I will have to fight my way there.

 

 

 

“I’m like a dog going after a bone in the ring. I just want to fight. I’m here to take the fight right to him.”

 

 

 

CLAUDIO MARRERO

 

 

 

“It was a very hard training camp like always. I take it very seriously and I’m ready for this fight on Saturday night.

 

 

 

“I know I’m facing a tough Mexican fighter who will leave it all in the ring. We worked very hard on a plan for him.

 

 

 

“He must be mistaken if he thinks I’ve never seen a fighter like him before. It’s the other way around. He’ll definitely know what level I’m on after Saturday night.

 

 

 

“My style is to both come forward, but have the ability to move backward. It’s all about what the fight dictates and what my corner wants.

 

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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.tgbpromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @FOXTV, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available atwww.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ADONIS STEVENSON & BADOU JACK FACE OFF IN TORONTO TO FORMALLY ANNOUNCE MAY 19 LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP LIVE ON SHOWTIME® FROM AIR CANADA CENTRE

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“I am the best light heavyweight in the world, and Toronto and the world will see that on May 19.” – Adonis Stevenson
“I asked for this fight for a long time and finally we got it. On May 19 we’re going to have a three-time world champion.” – Badou Jack
Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Baxter Promotions

 

 

WHAT: WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson and former two-division world champion Badou Jack faced off in Toronto on Tuesday to formally announce their highly anticipated showdown Saturday, May 19 live on SHOWTIME from Air Canada Centre in Toronto.

 

 

 

The southpaw Stevenson (29-1, 24 KOs) is the longest reigning champion in the 175-pound division and one of the hardest hitters in boxing. Jack (22-1-3, 13 KOs) is a former 168 and 175-pound champion who relinquished his title for the chance to challenge Stevenson in the biggest light heavyweight showdown of 2018.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

Below are quotes from the fighters and event promoters.

 

 

 

ADONIS STEVENSON:

 

 

“I love Toronto, I spend a lot of time here. I have fought here before. I have a lot of fans in Toronto, and on May 19 I’m going to put on a show for them. I’m going to give them something to remember.

 

 

 

“Badou Jack is an excellent opponent. He’s smart, he’s been a world champion, and he’s shown he’s a true competitor. But I am the best light heavyweight in the world, and Toronto and the world will see that on May 19.

 

 

 

“Badou Jack is a good champion. He’s not coming to Canada to lose. I know he’s coming to win so we need to train like we’ve never trained before.

 

 

 

“I know Badou is one of the best boxers in the world and I can’t take him lightly. We can’t underestimate this guy – he’s a two-time world champion.

 

 

 

“I’m looking for the knockout. I know Badou is ready, I’m ready, May 19 will be exciting.”

 

 

 

BADOU JACK:

 

 

“I’m glad to be fighting here in Toronto on May 19. I want to thank Adonis and his team for giving me the opportunity. I’ve been training for a while now, and feel great. Camp has been great. I think I’m getting better and better, and I’m ready to become a world champion again on May 19 and give Toronto a show.

 

 

 

“He’s a strong fighter, everybody knows that. He does a lot of things well, not just land the big shots. But I’m a guy who’s great at a lot of things, and who’s coming to win. I promise you, I’ll leave Toronto a champion.

 

 

 

“We have three more weeks to get ready for one of the biggest fights of my life. I asked for this fight for a long time and finally we got it. On May 19 we’re going to have a three-time world champion.”

 

 

 

YVON MICHEL, Groupe Yvon Michele:

 

 

“We were faced with a situation in Montreal that demanded this fight be moved. I called MLSE, and Lee Baxter, and with the co-operation of everybody here, we knew almost immediately that this fight had a great new home here at the ACC in Toronto.

 

 

 

“Over the duration of his time as world champion, Adonis has become not only one of the best light heavyweights in the world, but one of the best fighters in the sport. But Badou Jack is the toughest opponent that Adonis has faced since becoming champion. Adonis has always risen to the occasion, and on May 19th he’ll do it again and be successful in defending his world championship.”

 

 

 

LEE BAXTER, Baxter Promotions:

 

 

“Taking on a project like this with just three weeks to sell the fight is a huge task. But this is an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. We’ve been on a mission to bring boxing to Toronto sports fans and put us back on the sport’s map. I think this is the perfect group of people to pull off this task and turn this endeavor into a huge success.

 

 

 

“I want to thank Yvon Michel, MLSE, Mayweather Promotions, the champion Adonis Stevenson, Badou Jack, and everybody else represented on the dais. This is a great fight, regardless of where it takes place, but because it’s happening here in Toronto at the ACC, with an undercard featuring some of the best local fighters fighting on the biggest stage of their careers, it’s going to be a great Toronto sports event.”

 

 

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, Mayweather Promotions:

 

 

“First, I want to extend our hearts and best wishes to everybody affected by Monday’shorrifying tragedy here in Toronto.

 

 

 

“I know first-hand that Toronto is a great sports city. Floyd and I saw it with our own eyes when we were here last year promoting his fight with McGregor. The fans are passionate, and vocal, and they’re hungry for a good fight. I know they’re going to love seeing Badou Jack become a three-time world champion.”

 

 

 

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

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