boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DAVID BENAVIDEZ vs. RONALD GAVRIL FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS

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 FOR TOMORROW/FRIDAY, SEPT 8 SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION

L to R: Caleb Plant, J’Leon Love, David Benavidez, Leonard Ellerbe, Ronald Gavril, Abraham Han, Andrew Hernandez

 

Live on SHOWTIME® at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT from The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

 

“This is the biggest fight of my life, and I have to take advantage.” – David Benavidez

“They say he’s a highlight reel, but he will be exposed on Friday night.” – Ronald Gavril

 

Click HERE To Download Weigh-In Photos; Credit Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos from Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 7, 2017) – All six super middleweight boxers made weight on Thursday, one day before a stacked tripleheader tomorrow/Friday, Sept. 8 on SHOWTIME BOXING: Special Edition live onSHOWTIME® (10:05 p.m. ET/PT) from the Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

 

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS:

David Benavidez: 167 ½ Pounds

Ronald Gavril: 166 ¾ Pounds

 

J’Leon Love: 168 ¼ Pounds

Abraham Han: 167 ½ Pounds

 

Caleb Plant: 167 ¼ Pounds

Andrew Hernandez: 166 ¼ Pounds

  

FINAL QUOTES:

 

DAVID BENAVIDEZ:

“I’m a little surprised the title shot came this early. My dad told me to be ready and if the opportunity came, I need be ready to show up.

 

“[Gavril] thinks I’m a kid, I know it. I’m 20 years old, but I’m going to let him make the mistakes and let him come forward, then I’m going to take over.

 

“He’s never faced someone like me. I’ll let him think what he wants to think. I know what I can do. This is the biggest fight of my life and I have to take advantage.

 

“Leaving Phoenix was probably one of the best things I’ve ever done, especially for my boxing career.

 

“I can’t keep my mind away from boxing and I have to stay sharp because the fights are getting harder and harder.

 

“The last few fights have been tough and I can’t go in there just thinking about the knockout. I have to take them apart piece by piece. My approach has changed. I’m not going in there just wailing away like Mike Tyson. I’m going to dissect them.

 

“I see that he’s a pressure fighter and has good body work. He only has one speed and doesn’t have any other gears. I’ve watched a lot of film on him and feel like he has some weaknesses that I can expose. I’m going to end this in a knockout! I’m ready to go 12 rounds, but I’m going to knock him out.

 

“I’ve dedicated myself the most I ever have for any fight this time. I had sparring partners exactly like Gavril.

 

“I feel comfortable at this weight, but I can see myself going up to 175 at some point, maybe three or four years from now.

 

“I know if I win I’m going to be the youngest super middleweight world champion ever. That’s just frosting on the cake.”

 

RONALD GAVRIL:

“Our camp was extended by two weeks because we were supposed to fight on Aug. 26. But the world title fight came up so we had to go for it.

 

“I’m going to make him fight. I’m a more experienced fighter and have a higher boxing IQ than my opponent.

 

“I’m not overlooking Benavidez. He’s a tough fighter and we know it. My trainer [Eddie Mustafa Muhammad] has been working with me on a game plan. I’m going to be ready for whatever he has to bring.

 

“It was a great camp and we had the best sparring partners, including Badou [Jack] and Jose Uzcategui.

 

“I’ve watched video of Benavidez. He throws lots of combinations and quick hands. They say he’s a highlight reel, but he will be exposed on Friday night.”

 

J’LEON LOVE:

“I know I’ve had a year-long layoff, but I’ve always been in the gym just working on my mistakes and polishing my game. I’m past the prospect stage and now I’m a contender.

 

“He’s not as smart as me. I’m coming to make a statement. He’s going to try and bring the fight to me, but it doesn’t matter. I’ve had some bigger guys in sparring, light heavyweights.

 

“It’s easy to be comfortable, but I’ve learned from my mistakes. I’m blessed to have Floyd [Mayweather] in my life, but he won’t always be there. I have to be able to do some things for myself. Everyone knows Floyd has it all, but he still busts his ass and works hard.

 

“Theo Chambers is back training me now and I had to go back to Kronk Gin Detroit to let the dog come out. I started with him when I was 14 years old.

 

“I want guys like James DeGale, and the winner of Benavidez and Gavril. Why not? I’m hungry for whatever. I’ll do whatever I have to do be world champion.

 

“Sometimes you need some time off and a layoff is good. I healed my mind and my body. We’ve worked on some things and now we are ready to put it on display. I’ve learned from my mistakes.

 

“Boxing just comes natural to me and I’m feeling really good about my chances Friday night.”

 

ABRAHAM HAN:

“I wasn’t always focused on my career, but I’ve gotten it back and my sister [current IBF women’s Featherweight World Champion] Jennifer is a big reason for that. I had to figure some things out. She beat my butt all the way through high school. Guys would see me with black eyes and know that she would beat the crap out of me. It was kind of embarrassing when you get beat up by your sister.

 

“This is a big opportunity for me. I lost two split decisions [to Sergio Mora and Fernando Guerrero] and both could have gone either way. I had the only knockdowns in both fights, but I was on the ‘B’ side so you know how it’s going to go.

 

“El Paso is trying to become a fight town and we have a lot of good trainers, but we still have a ways to go.

 

“I injured my shoulder a few years ago and couldn’t use my right shoulder so I started fighting more southpaw. I’ve done a lot of mixed martial arts growing up, and it hasn’t been hard switching from that to boxing.

 

“J’Leon Love has one of the best teams in boxing in Mayweather Promotions. I have to throw punches in bunches.”

 

CALEB PLANT

“I’m just going to go in there calm and relaxed as I always do and make adjustments as I need to. I could tell you everything I plan to do, or what could happen, but this this is boxing and everyone knows how it works. It depends on what’s going on inside the ring, and I will make adjustments.

 

“My opponent does different things and is very durable and comes to fight. We know he moves well and can do different things and be the aggressor. He has different dimensions. We’re not overlooking him.

 

“This isn’t the first time it’s happened, and it won’t be the last, having to face a different opponent than we trained for. At the end of the day it’s all about being able to make adjustments, in the ring and in life. I don’t expect anything less than an A-plus performance.

 

“I’m not taking this fight lightly. This is no joke. Boxing is life and death to me. It’s all I have and it’s been my whole entire life since I was nine years old. I don’t have anything else.”

 

ANDREW HERNANDEZ

“I’ve had about a week notice for this fight. Of course I’m going to say yes. I’m not going to run from any fighter or opportunity. Caleb is a tremendous prospect and they are talking about him fighting for a world title soon. So much opportunity can come from this.

 

“[Caleb] doesn’t have many weaknesses. He has good hand speed and pretty good power and very good defense. He’s the total package and I have my work cut out for me. But I’m very confident in myself and I hope I can take him into deep waters.

 

“Hopefully I will fight the best fight I can and pull off the upset.”

 

“I’ve had some upsets during my career. I’ve been doing this long enough and hopefully someday maybe I’ll fight for a world title and get a nice payday before it’s all said and done. I’m very hungry.”

 

# # #

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MayweatherPromo, or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, and  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions

boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Premier Boxing Champions Rolls Into September With An Exciting Slate of Shows

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David Benavidez Takes on Ronald Gavril for Vacant
Super Middleweight World Title on SHOWTIME from
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on
Friday, September 8
 
Mario Barrios Meets Naim Nelson in Super Lightweight
Showdown on “TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS” on FS1 & FOX   Deportes from Sands Bethlehem Events Center on 
September 19
 
Unbeaten Super Featherweights Leduan Barthlemy and Eduardo Ramirez Clash on “”TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS” on FS1 & FOX Deportes From Cannery Hotel & Casino
In Las Vegas on September 26
LAS VEGAS (September 7, 2017) – The sport of boxing was the center of attention in August with a record-setting mega event that captured the imagination of the public.  A trio of shows presented by Premier Boxing Champions in September will give fans more opportunities to see young boxers on the rise in the sport.
“Premier Boxing Champions will present three shows that will deliver the kind of excitement that fans have come to appreciate. All three shows involve boxers who have a bright future in the sport and are tomorrow’s stars,” said Tim Smith, VP of Communications for Haymon Boxing.
David Benavidez (18-0, 17 KOs) will take on Ronald Gavril(18-1, 14 KOs) for the vacant super middleweight world title in a bout that will have historical implications when the two boxers square off in a 12-round bout that headlines a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION® on Friday, September 8 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The 20-year-old Benavidez has the chance to become the youngest super middleweight champion in history and the youngest reigning boxing world champion in the sport today. Gavril is looking to win the title that was once held by his Mayweather Promotions teammate, Badou Jack, who vacated the title to move up to 175 pounds where he claimed a light heavyweight world title with a dominant victory over Nathan Cleverly on Aug. 26.
The undercard will feature two more exciting matches in the super middleweight division. Once-beaten contender J’Leon Love (23-1, 13 KOs) will battle Texas-native Abraham Han(26-3, 16 KOs) in a 10-round bout and unbeaten prospectCaleb Plant (15-0, 10 KOs) takes on Andrew Hernandez (19-6-1, 9 KOs) in 10 rounds of action.
Unbeaten super lightweight contender Mario Barrios (19-0, 11 KOs) will clash with Philadelphia’s Naim Nelson (13-3, 1 KO) in a 10-round battle from Sands Bethlehem Event Center in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and FOX Deportes on Tuesday, September 16 at 10 p.m./7 p.m. PT. The 22-year-old Barrios of San Antonio has been on a roll this year, knocking out Yardley Armenta Cruz in March and Jose Luis Rodriguez in June.
In the other televised bouts, Brooklyn light heavyweight prospect Earl Newman (10-0, 7 KOs) takes on Toledo’s Paul Parker (8-2, 4 KOs) in an 8-round bout to open the broadcast and a pair of undefeated featherweight prospects Stephen Fulton (11-0, 5 KOs) and Adam Lopez (8-0, 3 KOs) face off in an eight-round co-main event.
Six boxers with a combined record of 72-1 will do battle onTOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and FOX Deportes on Sept. 26from Cannery Casino & Hotel in Las Vegas at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. ET.  Unbeaten Cuban super featherweight Leduan Barthelemy (13-0, 7 KOs) will meet Eduardo Ramirez (20-0-2, 7 KOs) from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico in a 10-round main event.
In the co-main event Alejandro Salinas (8-1, 8 KOs) of Youngstown, Ohio battles Duarn Vue (12-0-2, 4 KOs) of Madison, Wisconsin in an eight-round super featherweight bout. In the opening TV bout, Bryan Figueroa (12-0, 5 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico will fight for the first time outside of Mexico when he takes on Ivan Jimenez (7-0-1, 4 KOs), who is from Cuba but now lives in Las Vegas, in an eight-round lightweight match.
boxing, women's boxing

SELINA “AZTEC QUEEN” BARRIOS Returns To The Ring This Saturday at the San Antonio Event Center

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Photos by Team Barrios
SAN ANTONIO, TX (September 6, 2017) – This Saturday September 9, 2017, Selina “Aztec Queen” Barrios (1-0, 1 KO) makes her way back to the ring as she battles Jasmine Clarkson (4-9) at the San Antonio Event Center in Texas.  The four-round bout, set at 140 pounds, will be Barrios’ second fight of 2017.  In her last bout, Barrios scored a first round knockout against the battle tested Tammy Franks, a veteran of over twenty-five fights.
“I’m ready to give my hometown fans a great show this Saturday.” said Selina Barrios, “I know Clarkson has been in the ring with some good fighters, most recently Katie Taylor, who everyone is saying is the next great female fighter.  Taylor was able to stop Clarkson for the first time in her career, so my goal is to do the same, but in more spectacular fashion.  This will be my second time fighting in San Antonio and I want to make it a memorable one.  I have a lot of family and friends coming out to support me and I promise to bring an exciting fight to those in attendance.”
Tickets priced $25 general admission (Pre-Sale) $30 (At the door), along with Ringside VIP $75, $65, $60 are on sale now by calling (210) 449-5599.  The San Antonio Event Center is located at 8111 Meadow Leaf Dr. San Antonio, TX 78227.
This pro-am event is brought to you by, Triple A Promotions, SOBA Recovery Center,Malibu Films, Barber Bros, and Real Gutta Music, in association with TMB Entertainment and Bud Light Presents.  Doors open at 1:00 P.M. CT with first amateur bell starting at 2:00 P.M.  Professionals first bell starts at 7:45 P.M.
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boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Erislandy Lara vs. Terrell Gausha; Jermell Charlo vs. Erickson Lubin; Jarrett Hurd vs. Austin Trout SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Presented by Premier Boxing Champions Saturday, October 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (September 6, 2017) – Six of the top 154-pound fighters in the world spoke to media in Brooklyn Wednesday ahead of their respective Saturday, October 14showdowns featured in a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.
The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending against undefeated Terrell Gausha plus hard-hitting unbeaten champion Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo taking on top contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and “Swift” Jarrett Hurd making his first title defense against tough former world champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout.
Tickets to the event are on sale now and start at $50 (not including applicable fees). Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays CenterGroup discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday:
ERISLANDY LARA
“I like to do my talking in the ring. On October 14 that’s exactly what I’m going to do. It’s an honor to be headlining on SHOWTIME and we’re looking forward to a great fight.
“I’m excited to be part of this huge card. This is a great event. These are the best guys in the division. It’s a pleasure to be the main event and I look forward to putting on a show.
“Gausha is a good fighter. He’s an Olympian and a guy who wants to win and become world champion. I know what that feels likes, but I also know what it takes. We’ll see how it plays out on October 14.
“I’m excited for this fight. I’ve beat champions, former champions and now I’ll add an Olympian. After I take care of business I look forward to unifying the division.
“My prayers and my thoughts are with everyone down in Houston. I have family and friends who were affected. It’s a sad situation, but Houston has to be strong. That’s why I’m going to have ‘Houston Strong’ on my trunks because we all need to stick together and unite. That’s the way we’ll make it through.”
TERRELL GAUSHA
“I was extremely excited to get the call for this fight. I’ve been working for this my whole career and it’s a great opportunity. Lara is considered to be the best in the division and I want to fight the best. Now is my time.
“I’ll have to make adjustments in there. Obviously with Lara you have to cut the ring off. We have a game plan that I’m going to go in there and execute on October 14.
“I’m fighting a tough competitor. He’s crafty. We all know he has skills. But I’ve prepared for this and I’m going to do what I have to do. I like to do my talking in the ring and I’ll leave it all on the line on fight night.
“I’m a more mature fighter now. I’m a true professional. I’ve been through some things in my career that have helped me leading up to this fight. I’m well-seasoned and ready for the test.
“I’m training with my coach Manny Robles in Norwalk, California and it’s been going really well. We’re adding a few things for this fight but mostly just putting in the same hard work that we always do.
“I’m blessed to be in this position. I feel like all my hard work is paying off now that I’m on a big card like this. I worked hard and I deserve this chance.”
JERMELL CHARLO
“I’m honored to be in Brooklyn. This is another exciting fight card like the last card I was on here. I did what I had to do in April. I let the opponent run his mouth and then I took care of him. I’m going to let that happen again.
“I have to take advantage of this opportunity. I know that I have a lot of advantages but I just need to go seize the moment. He’s a tough, strong fighter who’s going to be ready to take my title.
“It’s interesting to see a guy as young as he is come for a world title. I’ve been here a long time in the pro game. It’s a big stage for both of us. I’ve fought a lot of tough guys up to this point. This is what I’ve been preparing for.
“I want to fight Jarrett Hurd after this. I’d also like to get an opportunity to unify against Miguel Cotto. I want to show the old guard that the Charlo twins are as good as anyone.
“I got my hands full with Ericskon Lubin and I know he comes to fight. He’s a dog, but I’m an animal as well. I’m going to step up and do what I’ve done each time before.
“I’m doing this for Houston. Houston is going through a lot. My friends and family are all affected. It really doesn’t seem real to me. I’m ready to help however I can.”
ERICKSON LUBIN
“This is the fight I asked for. I said I wanted to go the WBC route and when it was officially announced I was really excited. I’ve been training for this since my last fight. I’m even more motivated now to go get the belt.
“I’ve been sparring with bigger guys. Guys who throw one-two combos like Jermell. I’m getting prepared mentally and physically for this fight.
“Jermell has some power. He moves pretty well, but I’ll be prepared for everything. Whether he pressures or boxes me I’ll be prepared.
“I laugh at people who say this is too soon for me. Mike Tyson was 19 when he dared to be great. This is the perfect time for me to show that I’m not a regular 21-year-old.
“This is a stacked card we have here and I’m ready to showcase my talent. I want to prove I’m the best in this division. I think we’re bringing back the era of all fighters going out there and giving it their all each time they step into the ring. I always steal the show and I’m planning to do that October 14.”
JARRETT HURD
“It means everything to be defending my belt on a card like this. I fought here at Barclays Center on the Keith Thurman vs. Shawn Porter undercard so to be back here against a veteran in Austin Trout is great. I can’t wait to put on a show.
“We’re going to have two buses of fans coming up here. The ‘Swift’ fans will be in the house. It’s going to be a great atmosphere on fight night.
“In my last bout, Tony Harrison won some early rounds by boxing me, so we’ve known that my next opponent is going to try to outbox me. We expect him to move around and use the ring against me.
“This has been a long training camp. We’ve had this bout set for a long time. We’re more than prepared.
“We’ve been training to catch a ‘Trout.’ We’ll put the bait out there and let him come in. If he doesn’t take the bait, we’ll step right in the water and get him out of there.
“I’m going to keep the pressure on him. I’m planning on attacking the body and making sure I cut off the ring. He’s going to be on the move so I have to be prepared.
“My fans can expect a stoppage on October 14. He’s got three losses against great opponents but none have been able to stop him. I’m going to separate myself by being the first to do it.”
AUSTIN TROUT
“This is going to put me back to where I belong. Right back on top. This is for my legacy so this is of the utmost importance.
“It’s an honor to be on a card like this. I’m blessed to be a part of this great lineup of fighters. This place is the new hotspot of boxing and I can’t wait to perform.
“Hurd is tall, he’s a big guy who I think is going to come forward. We’re preparing for the best possible Hurd that there could be.
“I’m ready to take my career to a whole new level. I’ve been in big fights, but none like this. There is so much riding on this fight. He wants to make a name for himself off of my name.
“He didn’t have to take this fight and I’m happy he did. But he messed up. I’m leaving the ring with his belt and his ‘0.’ I want to stake my claim as the best in the division.
“I’m coming home as a world champion. I’ll be a two-time world champion who’s going to unify this division. I’m going to have my hand raised at the end of the night.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“This is going to be a sensational show. If you’re a boxing fan this is going to be an amazing show. It’s going to bring some clarity to the division with six talented guys matching off. It’s a boxing fan’s fight and it’s priced that way.
“What boxing needs is the best matchups. Boxing needs shows like this. These are the kind of shows that SHOWTIME has been showing for the last few years. There is no question that they’re the number one network in boxing.
“This card is about finding out who will be the last man standing in the 154-pound division. It starts on October 14 and it’ll all go down on SHOWTIME.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“Last week we had the world’s attention for an unprecedented event in Mayweather vs. McGregor. What this sport needs to do to continue to expand is to follow that up with high quality boxing matchups. That’s why this card is so important. It was critical that we had a top to bottom high quality card to capture those people who started paying attention to boxing on Aug. 26.
“Over the last couple of years, SHOWTIME along with Barclays Center and DiBella Entertainment have brought fans the biggest and best fights in boxing. This might be the highest quality card from top to bottom since we started working with Barclays Center.
“This tripleheader will be the 18th, 19th and 20th world title fights this year on SHOWTIME. More than anyone else. More important and meaningful fights than anyone else. This is a talent-rich division we’ve been showcasing for years.
“I’ve never had any doubts about boxing’s future. Boxing is very healthy. All you have to do is look at these six fighters in their prime, taking on top competition. I know that this sport is in very good health.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“It has been an incredible year for BROOKLYN BOXING. Probably the best since we opened Barclays Center. On October, 28, we will celebrate our fifth anniversary. We’re very committed to boxing, not only showcasing the best and brightest talent, but to use it as a platform for those who aspire to get in this ring. We’re committed to their futures.
“There are a lot of championships on the line which should make it a great night. All of these fights promise to bring action to our great fans. We look forward to seeing everyone on the 14th.”
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,
and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Boxing Doubleheader Features Two Blockbuster Shows on Separate Networks from Both Coasts & Showcases  Five World Championship Matches on Saturday, October 14 Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

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Action Kicks Off With Leo Santa Cruz & Abner Mares Defending Their Titles in Separate Matches In Primetime On FOX & FOX Deportes from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. At 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. ET
 
Nightcap Features a Thrilling Tripleheader of
World Championship Matches in the 154-pound Division
Live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn at
10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
 
LAS VEGAS (September 6, 2017)  – Let’s play two! Boxing fans will have the rare opportunity to enjoy a boxing doubleheader with two separate live shows on different networks that will showcase five world championship matches from coast to coast on Saturday, October 14 presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
In the first show, sensational featherweight champion Leo Santa Cruz (33-1-1, 18 KOs) will defend his world title against Chris Avalos (27-5, 20 KOs), while three-division world champion Abner Mares (30-2-1, 15 KOs) defends his 126-pound belt against once-beaten Andres Gutierrez (35-1-1, 25 KOs) at StubHub Center in Carson, California in primetime on FOX & FOX Deportes at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.
Following that will be a scintillating 154-pound world championship tripleheader on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Erislandy Lara (24-2-2, 14 KOs), arguably the most-skilled boxer in the division and the longest reigning world champion, will headline and defend his title against undefeated 2012 U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha (20-0, 9 KOs).  Hard-hitting undefeated champion Jermell Charlo (29-0, 14 KOs) will take on top contender Erickson Lubin (18-0, 13 KOs) while Jarrett Hurd (20-0, 14 KOs) will make his first title defense against tough former world champion Austin Trout (30-3, 17 KOs).
“It’s a common occurrence in Major League Baseball, the NFL and the NBA to be able to watch two or three games back-to-back on the same day, but it is rare in boxing to watch back-to-back live shows from two locations on the same day,” said Tim Smith, VP of Communications for Haymon Boxing. “This is a unique opportunity for boxing fans to watch two separate live cards on two different networks from both U.S. coasts, featuring five world championship matches in the 126-pound and 154-pound division – two of the hottest divisions in boxing.  If you’re a boxing fan you’re going to want to get your popcorn ready for October 14.”
All five of the featured championship matches hold major significance in the future for the winners.
If Santa Cruz and Mares win their respective matches, they have both agreed to terms to meet in a highly anticipated rematch and featherweight title consolidation bout in early 2018.  Santa Cruz won a hard-fought, narrow decision against Mares in 2015.
The 154-pound title tripleheader features four undefeated boxers and the very best the division has to offer. The winners in each match will face each other in the future to determine which one will eventually be the undisputed 154-pound world champion.
boxing, World Boxing Super Series

Usyk vs. Huck launches World Boxing Super Series

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AIRING LIVE IN CANADA THIS SATURDAY
EXCLUSIVELY ON SUPER CHANNEL

(All Pictures Courtesy of World Boxing Super Series)
 
EDMONTON, Canada (September 6, 2017) – The much-anticipated World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) launches this week and Canadian boxing fans will be able to watch all the tournament action live on Super Channel.
Super Channel acquired the rights in Canada to broadcast the World Boxing Super Series from MP & Silva, a leading international media company that provides media rights, digital, technology and sponsorship services.
Planned to take place on an annual basis, the WBSS tournament will commence this Saturday (Sept. 9) in Berlin, starting at 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT, with the first quarter-final match as World Boxing Organization (WBO) Cruiserweight World Champion Oleksandr “The Cat” Usyk (12-0, 10 KOs) defends his world title against former world cruiserweight champion Marco “Kapt’n” Huck (40-4-1, 27 KOs) in the 12-round main event.
The inaugural season of the World Boxing Super Series will feature two weight classes (cruiserweight & super middleweight), 16 fighters, and a total of 14 main events. An expert panel invited the world’s best boxers to compete, namely the top 15-ranked fighters of the four   major federations: WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO. In each weight class, eight boxers will battle it out in a bracket-style elimination tournament, with four quarterfinals (September & October 2017), two semifinals (January & February 2018) and one championship final (May 2018).
World Boxing Super Series is a new revolutionary bracket-style elimination tournament featuring the world`s best boxers and a total of $50 million in prize money. The knockout format of the competition will see the best boxers ultimately compete for the Muhammad Ali Trophy, the greatest prize in boxing. The tournament is organized by newly-founded Comosa AG, a Swiss-registered company with principal owners Highlight Event & Entertainment, Modern Times Group and Team Sauerland. Comosa AG is working in partnership with boxers, promoters and managers around the world, and in alignment with the four major world boxing federations, to create a new global platform for the sport.
Five exciting fights on the “Usyk vs, Huck” card, promoted by Sauerland Event, will air exclusively in Canada on Super Channel.
(L-R) — Oleksandr Usyk & Marco Huck
 
Usyk, 30, is the No. 1 WSBB seed and consensus pre-tournament favorite. The Ukrainian is a two-time Olympian who struck gold at the 2012 Olympics in London.   The powerful southpaw captured the WBO cruiserweight world title September 17, 2016, taking a 12-round unanimous decision in Poland from the previously undefeated, defending champion Krzystof Glowacki (26-0). Usyk has made two successful world title defenses, stopping challenger Thabiso Mchunu (17-2) last December in the ninth round, and winning a 12-round unanimous decision this past April fromMichael Hunter (12-0).
“Marco Huck is the most famous and prestigious opponent I could have chosen,” Usyk said. “He has accomplished most title defenses in the history of the cruiserweight division, an extremely experienced man. Huck does not fear anything or anyone and goes for the victory through the fire. He marches constantly forward and tries to determine his fights by all means.
“I have a tactic specifically aimed at Huck. This is necessary because in my opinion he is one of my toughest competitors in this tournament. But why should I talk about it now and give Huck an advantage that he does not deserve? The surprising moment is on my side now, and I will take this advantage with me in the ring. Huck, by the way, has an advantage because he is at home in front of his audience in Berlin. This definitely makes him stronger but I love this challenge!
“I can fulfill my dream of unifying all the cruiserweight belts! I had previously thought about how it would be possible to achieve this goal. Fortunately, the door is now open for the road to glory. In this tournament with all the world champions participating and the winner can rightly be described as the best cruiserweight in the world. On top of that the winner gets the Muhammad Ali Trophy. I admire Ali, because he is the biggest role model in boxing. I will thank God if I win a trophy with his name on it.”
Serbia-born Huck has two distinct advantages over Usyk: fighting at home in Berlin as well as being much more experienced against world-class opponents. The 32-year-old Huck is 13-4-1 (6 KOs) in world title fights and he has five victories against former or present world champions.
One of Huck’s four career losses as a professional, however, is to Glowacki, who lost the WBO title he won in 2015, by knocking out Huck in the 11th round, to Usyk a year ago.
“It is going to be very nice to fight in Berlin, but I would also fight Usyk on the moon,” Huck noted. “Usyk is a well-schooled boxer and I cannot wait to step into the ring with him.
“When I fight, there’s always something going on, it’s never boring but spectacular. Huck fans around the world know that a Huck fight means entertainment. When I reach my potential on
fight night, I can beat everyone. I am optimistic and confident that I will beat Usyk.”
In the 10-round co-featured event, former WBO International and World Youth cruiserweight champion Noel Gevor (22-1, 10 KOs), fighting out of Germany by way of Armenia, takes on American Isiah Thomas (15-1, 6 KOs) in the WBSS Cruiserweight Substitution Fight.
Undefeated German middleweight prospect Patrick Wojcicki (9-0, 4 KOs) faces FrenchmanFouard El Massoudi (14-9, 1 KO) in an eight-round bout, while German super middleweight Denis Radovan (5-0, 2 KOs) meets Yasnn Binanga Abogho (6-1-1,) and German light heavyweightLeon Bunn (5-0, 5 KOs) squares off with Tomasz “Temera” Gargula (18-7-1, 5 KOs), of Poland, in a pair of six-round matches, all scheduled to air live on Super Channel.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
 
 
UPCOMING WBSS EVENTS AIRING LIVE ON SUPER CHANNEL
 
Sept. 9 – Cruiserweight Quarter-Final in Berlin, Germany
WBO Cruiserweight World Championship 

 

Oleksandr Usyk (12-0, 10 KOs), Champion, Kiev, Ukraine

vs.
Marco Huck (40-4-1, 27 KOs), Challenger, Berlin, Germany
 
Sept. 16 – Super Middleweight Quarter-Final in Liverpool, UK
WBC Super Middleweight Diamond Championship
Callum Smith (22-0, 17 KOs), Liverpool, Merseyside, UK
vs.
Erik Skoglund (26-0, 12 KOs), Nykoping, Sweden
Sept. 23 – Cruiserweight Quarter-Final in San Antonio, Texas, USA
WBA Cruiserweight World Championship
Yunier Dorticos (21-0, 20 KOs), Champion, Miami, Florida, USA by way of Cuba
vs.
Dmitry Kudryashov (21-1, 21 KOs), Challenger, Volgodonsk, Russia
Sept. 30 – Cruiserweight Quarter-Final in Riga, Latvia
WBC Cruiserweight World Championship
Mairis Briedis (22-0, 18 KOs), Champion, Riga, Latvia
vs.
Mike Perez (22-2-1, 14 KOs), Challenger, Cork, Ireland by way of Cuba
All WSBB fights will also be available on Super Channel On Demand.
Super Channel has recently aired major boxing events live like Brook vs. Spence Jr., Pacquiao-Horn, Eubank, Jr. vs. Abraham, Lomachenko vs.Marriaga and Crawford vs. Indongo.
To watch all the World Boxing Super Series action live, as well as more exciting boxing to come, fight fans in Canada can contact their local cable provider to subscribe to Super Channel and all that it offers, including premium series, movies and much more, for as low as $9.95 per month.
About Super Channel
 
Super Channelis a national premium pay television network, consisting of four HD channels, four SD channels, and Super Channel On Demand.
 
Super Channel’s mission is to entertain and engage Canadian audiences by providing a unique and exclusive entertainment experience.  With a core foundation of integrity and accountability, we dedicate ourselves to implementing innovative programming strategies and unparalleled team work that provides viewers with exceptional value and variety.
 
Super Channel is owned by Allarco Entertainment 2008 Inc., an Edmonton-based media company.
 
Super Channel is currently available on Bell TV, Shaw Direct, Rogers Anyplace TV, Shaw Cable, Cogeco Cable, Access Communications, Bell Alliant TV, Source Cable, SaskTel, MTS, Novus, EastLink, TELUS, Videotron, Westman Communications and other regional providers.
 
Connect with Super Channel:
Twitter: @SCSportsTV
Instagram: @SuperChannelTV
Facebook: /SuperChannel
boxing, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE

EMPIRE STATE PROSPECTS HIGHLIGHT SATURDAY’S EVANDER HOLYFIELD REAL DEAL FACEBOOK FIGHTNIGHT LIVE OFFERING

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Hall of Fame Broadcaster Barry Tompkins and Michael Woods call the action as fan-friendly, interactive platform’s fifth show opens at 7 p.m. on Sept. 9.
NEW YORK (Sept. 6, 2017) – After sizzling this summer with fight cards that drew as many as 200,000 viewers, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series looks to stay hot with a full September lineup. The tech-forward, fan-friendly Facebook broadcast platform opens its fall slate on Saturday, Sept. 9, by collaborating with Evander Holyfield’s Real Deal Championship Boxing for a five-bout card featuring eight New York up-and-coming prospects, plus others.
“We’re very excited to partner with Linacre Media and the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE team,” said Eric Bentley, COO of Real Deal Sports and Entertainment. “It’s a great opportunity to partner with each other in order to organically and strategically build our audiences. We want to bring as much exposure as we can to our fighters, our initiatives and our brand, and FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is a perfect way to do so.”
Highlighting the Facebook/TheRealDealBoxing.com simulcast is Brooklyn native Julian Sosa (8-0-1, 3 KOs), as he takes on Detroit’s James Lester (11-12-1, 4 KOs). Also appearing on the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE/Real Deal Boxing card in separate bouts: undefeated fighters Greg Outlaw of Bowie, Md. (3-0, 1 KO), Cesar “Rain Man” Francis of Brooklyn (1-0), Khalid “Pure Gold” Twaiti (1-0, 1 KO) of the famed Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn, pro-debuting Saleh “Yemen Boxer” Almulaki of Queens, and others.
“We’re pleased to begin a partnership with Hall of Famer Evander Holyfield and Real Deal Sports and Entertainment this Saturday, with an action-packed show containing something for everyone,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “Fight fans can watch the first five bouts of The Real Deal’s Empire State card on Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE or on TheRealDealBoxing.com, and then catch the PPV fights exclusively through The Real Deal’s Verizon Digital Media service, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting Hurricane Harvey victims in their time of need. A great night of action showcasing NYC and area prospects, Hall of Fame announcer Barry Tompkins, plus the ability to help others – what’s better than that?”
Following the Facebook slate, fight fans are encouraged to continue watching Real Deal’s featured bouts of the evening, exclusively at TheRealDealBoxing.com via the promotion’s Verizon Digital Media Pay-Per-View service ($5.99). A $1.00 donation from every PPV purchase will be made to support those affected by Hurricane Harvey, and the three featured bouts include a clash between Ian “The Young General” Green of Patterson, N.J. (12-1, 9 KOs) and Kingston, Jamaica’s Kemahl “Hitman” Russell (11-1, 9 KOs) for the vacant Junior NABF Middleweight title. Popular area pugilist and New York State middleweight champion Devaun “Unique” Lee (8-2-1, 3 KOs) takes on veteran Giovanni Lorenzo (37-7, 28 KOs) of NYC, plus a matchup between undefeated prospects Edgar Berlanga of Brooklyn (4-0, 4 KOs) and Rochester’s Saadiq Muhammad (4-0) will also be shown in its entirety via TheRealDealBoxing.com PPV.
Over the first four months of programming, the numbers on the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series have showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of more than 85,000 fight fans tuning in per event. The August “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (202,000), the July Roy Jones Jr. “Desert Showdown” from Phoenix (63,000), the May “Slugfest at the Sun” from Mohegan Sun (46,000) and the June “Rosemont Rumble” from Chicago (32,000) saw a total of more than 8,000 total hours of Facebook video consumed by 342,000-plus users across all devices.
In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 33,000 collective live post engagements, including more than 3,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 10,000 comments and 3,000-plus shares. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE broadcasts are viewed by 76 percent men, 24 percent women. The top demographic is comprised of males aged 25-34, which encompasses approximately 30 percent of the audience, on average.
The Aug. 26 Foxwoods “Super Saturday” show stands out individually with 201,935 views across 3,336 live hours of content, with 8,224 viewer interactions including 1,133 “likes” or “loves,” 1,570 comments and 1,392 shares.
            Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has been delivered to fans absolutely free since its May 2017 launch courtesy of corporate partners like Barbour One 9, Talent Management and Entertainment Production (www.barbourone9.com) and Northeastern Fine Jewelry (www.nefj.com).
On Saturday night, Sept. 9, live from Resorts World Casino in Queens, N.Y., fans can expect a high-impact, multi-camera streaming experience complete with graphics, animations, replays, interviews and an announce team anchored by Hall of Fame blow-by-blow announcer Barry Tompkins of Showtime and analyst Michael Woods of the TalkBox Podcast, NYFights.com and The Ring. To provide spectators with a fully-interactive ringside experience, commentators will ask and respond to questions from the Facebook audience throughout the broadcast.
Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.
More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Fall 2017 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.
FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/
Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag#FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or#LinacreMediaOnTV.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Caleb Plant Wraps Up Final Days of Training Camp, Talks New Opponent

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Photo by Sean Michael Ham – Premier Boxing Champions
 
Download more photos Click Here
LAS VEGAS, NV (September 5, 2017) – Unbeaten middleweight contender, Caleb “Sweethands” Plant (15-0, 10 KOs) is just a few days away from making his SHOWTIME debut this Friday at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Plant will face late opponent, Andrew Hernandez (19-6-1, 9 KOs) in a ten-round bout.  Tune inthis Friday on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT).
With just a few days away from the fight, Plant gives is thoughts on facing Hernandez, training, and more, as he wraps up the final days of camp.
On his matchup with late opponent Andrew Hernandez…
“To be honest, it doesn’t matter who they put in front of me, I’ll fight anyone.  I was originally supposed to fight Alan Campa, but he pulled out, like most of my opponents.  Hernandez recently fought so I know he’s in good shape.  I’m happy that he stepped up, but I’m going to put tips on him.  There’s no two ways about it, I’m coming out on top.”
On his recent training camp…
“Training camp has been unbelievable.  It’s no doubt, one of my best training camps ever.  My weight is perfect and I couldn’t be happier with the way I’ve been looking in the gym.  My trainer Justin Gamber is doing a phenomenal job, as well as my dad Richie.  Larry Wade, my strength and conditioning coach, has got me in tip top shape.  We are going to dictate our game plan on Hernandez, and try to get him out of there before the final bell.  If it goes the distance, I’ll be ready.”
 
On making his Showtime debut…
“I’m very excited to be making my debut on Showtime.  This is the first of many as I believe I can become a household name on their network.  Showtime is looking for their next star and I believe it’s me.  I’m going to put on a spectacular performance.  Everyone watching can expect to see a very skilled and determined fighter when they see me fight this Fridaynight.”
On fighting in his new hometown of Las Vegas…
“This will be my third time fighting in Las Vegas, the mecca of boxing, and I want to stamp my legacy here.  Since moving here from Nashville about a year ago, I’ve been getting some great work with some top-level fighters.  Nashville will always be home, but Vegas is where I’m at right now.  I have a lot of new fans out here and I can’t wait to put on a great show for them.”
On what a victory will do for his career…
“A win this Friday will get me one step closer to a world title shot.  I’m currently ranked WBA #7 and #11 by the IBF.  I’m right there knocking on the door.  David Benavidez is fighting for the WBC title in the main event, and he’s definitely someone I want to fight.  J’Leon Love, who’s world ranked, is also on the card.  Both are on my radar. I’m want all the champions in my division.  I’m going to be a world champion when I get my opportunity.”
boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

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

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Leo Santa Cruz vs. Chris Avalos & Abner Mares vs. Andres Gutierrez Saturday, October 14 from StubHub Center in 
Carson, Calif.
 
Click HERE for Photos from Erick Ramirez/Ringstar Sports
 
LOS ANGELES (September 5, 2017) – Three-division world champion Leo Santa Cruz and former title challenger Chris Avalos spoke to media at the Conga Room at L.A. Live Tuesday ahead of their world title showdown Saturday, October 14 that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
Also in attendance Tuesday was four-time world champion Abner Mares, who takes onAndres Gutierrez as he looks to setup a rematch with Santa Cruz in early 2018.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Promotions and TGB Promotions, are priced at $30, $50, $75, $100, $150, and $250 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit AXS.com HERE.
Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“Hopefully I can come out victorious and then face all of the big names. I want to rematch Mares and Carl Frampton then unify the division. I’m going to be ready to face anyone.
“Some fighters when they take long layoffs feel a little bit rusty. I wanted to get in there and test my body and see how I feel heading into the bigger fights in the future.
“Chris Avalos is a tough fighter. He has 20 knockouts so I’m not going to underestimate him. Up there in the ring anything can happen. I’m going to be smart, be patient and do what I have to do to win the fight.
“I’ve known Avalos since the amateurs. I beat him the one time we fought but it was a really good, close fight. We went toe-to-toe. He definitely thought he had won the fight. They’ve wanted a rematch since the amateurs.
“I’m very happy to be back fighting here in Southern California. I owe all of this to me team and all the fans who make this possible. I love fighting here and I’m going to give you a great show.
“A lot of people think this will be easy for me, but I don’t see it that way. I’ve been in there with him so I know. I’ll never underestimate an opponent. Anyone who gets in that ring with me is dangerous.
“Avalos has good power that I have to be prepared for. I’m really focused on beating him. We both like to come forward so I’m thinking it’s going to be a war.
“If I can get the win, I’m going to rematch Abner Mares. It was a really close fight the first time and I think the fans will really enjoy the rematch, especially now that he’s working with Robert Garcia.”
CHRIS AVALOS
“I’m not a big talker but I’m ready for this battle. It’s going to be a good fight. This is going to be a war. I like going toe-to-toe and so does he.
“I think fighting close to home is exciting, but it doesn’t matter where the fight is. I think there is certain motivation to do better. I have been working hard in this training camp for this fight.
“My last world title fight I wasn’t really focused. I was running around with the wrong crowd. I am more focused. I stopped talking to everyone I used to. I am a new person. I am a new fighter. Seeing this opportunity in front of me is a blessing. I’m really excited for this fight.
“We did spar in the past and I’ve been wanting to fight him. We aren’t enemies by any means, but it has been forever that I have been waiting for this opportunity.
“I have a lot of tactics on how to fight him strategy wise. It is going to be a good fight and I appreciate they gave me the opportunity.
“We are going to see the best Chris Avalos. I am going to bring the best. It is going to be a fight to remember.”
ABNER MARES
“Andres Gutierrez is a tough fighter and he’s only got one defeat. He’s no tune-up fight. He’s going to give me a good fight. I’m going to learn a lot and try to make the best of it and put on the best performance that I can.
“Leo and I have two tough opponents in front of us. My opponent was ready to fight Carl Frampton and Richard even said that he thought Gutierrez was going to win that fight. I’ve been training hard for this fight because we all know that young fighters like Gutierrez are warriors.
“Gutierrez is no easy test, but he doesn’t have the talent that I have. He doesn’t have the heart that I have. He doesn’t have the corner that I have. I’m going to come out victorious and give the fans a good fight.
“I’m excited to be back fighting in Southern California to perform in front of my fans. I think that Robert Garcia brought the best out of me and we’re going to continue to shine on October 14.
“Having the new relationship with Robert Garcia has really changed my career and given me a whole new outlook. It’s made me a better fighter. I’m more mature and I still feel fast and strong.
“I’m excited to show-off a new Abner Mares. I say this before most of my fights but it’s really true. I’m always learning more and you will be able to see it in the ring when I defend my title.
“I’ve been sparring a lot of young guys and it’s got me feeling great in the gym. I can still hang with the 18 and 19-year-olds coming out of the amateurs. So I’m feel rejuvenated heading into this fight.”
RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports
“This is a great fight card on October the 14 from StubHub Center in Carson, California. Los Angeles has clearly become the fight capital of the world. Not only do we have several world champions making Los Angeles their home, but we really have some of the best venues and the absolute best fight fans.
“This is a great doubleheader. Double trouble I have been calling it. Two of the most recognized names in the sport. Two Mexican-American world champions defending their world titles. This is going to be a special night for fight fans.
“This is amazing to have these two fights live on a major network like FOX, and also on FOX Deportes. The StubHub Center is nicknamed the “War Grounds” and I really can’t remember a bad fight at the venue. It truly brings out the best of the fighters.”
#          #          #
Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 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.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Ringstar, @TGBPromotions, @FOX, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/RingstarSports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT TRAINING CAMP NOTES

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Unbeaten Rising Contender David Benavidez & Former European Amateur Star Ronald Gavril Battle for Vacant WBC Super Middleweight World Title

in Main Event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION® Friday, Sept. 8Live on SHOWTIME at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT

 

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 5, 2017) – Fight Week is here for the six boxers competing in this Friday’s SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast, headlined by unbeaten rising star David Benavidez and contender Ronald Gavril who will battle for the vacant WBC Super Middleweight World Championship live on SHOWTIME (10:05 p.m. ET/PT) from The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas.

 

The event, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, will feature two additional showdowns in the super middleweight division. Once-beaten J’Leon Love (23-1, 13 KOs) will battle Texas-native Abraham Han (26-3, 16 KOs) in a 10-round bout while unbeaten prospect Caleb Plant (15-0, 10 KOs) takes on 31-year-old Phoenix, Ariz., switch-hitter Andrew Hernandez (19-6-1, 9 KOs), who steps in for Alan Campa for the 10-round attraction.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are priced at $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale Tuesday, Aug. 22. To purchase tickets visit AXS.com or the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Box Office.

 

The following is a training camp update from each of the fighters on this Friday’s tripleheader.

 

David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez

  • He trains out of The Summit Gym in Big Bear, Calif.
  • His trainer is his father, Jose Benavidez Sr.
  • With a victory, Benavidez (age 20) would become the youngest Super Middleweight to ever win a world title and the youngest current world champion.
  • He’s very familiar with the gym because his brother Jose Benavidez Jr. (former WBA interim super lightweight champion) used to train there when he was active.

 

Benavidez on training camp:

“My training camps are always fairly long. I only take a week off after every fight and go back into training. For the first couple weeks, it’s just moving around, then we slowly work into the hard training. For this one, I probably had like a month and a half, two months.”

 

On his opponent:

“I feel like he [Ronald Gavril] has a really good style for me to showcase my skills, like how I did against Rogelio Medina. With our sparring partners, we have brawlers and we have boxers, as well. Whatever style he fights on that night, I’m going to be prepared for it.”

 

Ronald “The Thrill” Gavril

  • He trains at the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas.
  • He is a former European amateur standout.
  • His trainer is Eddie Mustafa Muhammad (65 years old; former WBA light heavyweight world champion, retired in 1988 with a record of 50-8-1, 39 KOs).

 

Gavril on training camp:

“I feel really sharp and I’m really happy with how everything has gone during training. This is the opportunity that I’ve worked so hard to get to and I’m definitely not letting it slip by. I know that everything needs to be 100 percent on fight night so I’m pushing myself to be ready to do whatever it takes to leave with the belt.”

 

On his opponent:

“Benavidez is a strong guy who’s coming in with a lot of support behind him, but I’m not going to let any of that distract me from my preparation. Me and my trainer are going to have a great game plan for him. I know he wants to be active and smother me and we’re going to show him all of the parts of my game.”

 

Eddie Mustafa Muhammad:

“I got Ronald sparring with the IBF’s number-one super middleweight contender, Jose Uzcategui. He’s giving us good work, too—he can fight. We also sparred Badou Jack for a couple rounds. We’ve got an abundance of guys that we’re working with.

 

“The way they’re talking about Benavidez, it’s like he’s King Kong. But it’s good—perfect! Ronald is a boxer-puncher, he can adapt. That’s the whole key. He has a wealth of amateur experience. This is our opportunity. We’ve talked about this for a while now, and Ronald is at a point where he’s ready right now…It’s going to be a great fight.”

 

J’Leon Love

  • He trains at the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas.
  • His trainer is Theo Chambers.
  • He’s been in training camp for about five months

 

Love on training camp:

“My training camp—it’s been months! I started training in April. Being that we had fights fall out, I always stayed in the gym. That’s the hardest part, because I feel like I’ve had bad luck with fights falling out. But one thing I can say—we train our ass off! I just want to go on vacation after this.”

 

“We’ve had a lot of good sparring—Lionell Thompson and Denis Douglin have been in here working. We’ve had so many sparring partners throughout this camp, and we’ve just been working, working, working.

 

On his opponent:

“I remember Abie Han from the amateurs. He’s always been a tough fighter. You can’t look past anybody. Everybody comes in that ring to fight. Everybody comes in with a different mode or a different drive, so this may be the drive he has to really come out and explode on the scene and beat me. So, I’m taking him absolutely, positively serious, like he’s a world championship fighter and we’re fighting for the world title.”

 

Abraham “The Sun City Warrior” Han

  • Trains out of his father’s martial arts studio in El Paso, Texas (Han’s Martial Arts).
  • He is trained by Louie Burke — 56 years old; former pro junior lightweight, retired in 1985 with a record of 19-3, 12 KOs; won the “ESPN Junior Lightweight Title” on Apr. 14, 1983, with a 12-round unanimous decision against Freddie Roach; also won a 10-round decision against Roach in the rematch on Nov. 10, 1983.
  • He has sparred with former world champion Austin Trout.

 

Han on training camp:

“I train at my dad’s martial arts studio in El Paso – Han’s Martial Arts. I’m sparring mostly with local people from El Paso, and I also sparred with Austin Trout.

 

“I’ve been working hard and working with Austin (Trout) and that makes a big difference. Austin makes me so much better. He’s been a world champion and he will be a world champion again. His expertise and his knowledge is amazing. He’s been in those situations and he tells me little things along the way and I think that will make all the difference in this fight.”

 

Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant

  • Moved to Las Vegas from Nashville about a year ago to train
  • He is trained by Justin Gamber and his father Richie Plant.

 

Plant on training camp:

“I’ve been living in Las Vegas for more than a year now – since August 24th, 2016. I’ve been in the gym consistently this whole time since my last fight, but my ‘official’ training camp will be seven or eight weeks. We bounce around to a couple of different gyms for sparring. I’ve had good work this camp – great sparring, good strength and conditioning, good gym work, and I’ve had good rest. I have a good diet.

 

“I know every boxer says, ‘Oh, this is my best camp,’ and a lot of times they don’t mean it. But this has literally been my best camp. Things are very smooth.”

 

Andrew Hernandez

  • He is managed by his wife Jacquie Hernandez and trained by Alan Beirs.
  • Alfred Quintana serves as his cut man and strength and conditioning coach.
  • A late replacement, Hernandez got the call on Aug. 29 and accepted the fight; contract signed the next day.
  • Trains at Gents Gym in Arrowhead, Ariz.

 

What Hernandez has to say:

“I’ve known my trainer, Alan Beirs, for a while. He actually helped me with my last couple of fights – we’ve only been together maybe six months or so. He worked my corner in February, but we weren’t working completely together. Then when I got back in the gym in March, that’s when we really started working together.

 

“I train at a place called Gents Gym in Arrowhead, Ariz. I trained there with the Busted Knuckles Boxing crew – that’s Alan Beirs’ crew. We’re all pushing each other to get better and I know they’ll have me ready for fight night.”

 

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