boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Jesus Cuellar vs. Abner Mares Media Conference Call  Transcript & MP3

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Richard Schaefer
Thank you very much, and thank you to all the media for being on today’s call. It was an interesting weekend, but boxing goes on and boxing goes on in a big way here on Saturday, December 10 as a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader with two toe-to-toe fights that will electrify the sport, and I’m really excited to be able to host and promote this card here from Galen Center in Los Angeles.
The fight we are discussing today is for sure going to be one of those potential Fight of the Year candidates, and I know these days those words are being used quite a bit, but I really feel these fighters are right for each other. This is a fight in one of the most stacked divisions in boxing. Before I introduce the two fighters, just some other things, the card will take place from the Galen Center at the USC Campus in Los Angeles.
The Galen Center is a first-class arena. It’s actually the newest indoor arena in and around Los Angeles. Televised coverage will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT for those people who can’t make it to the Galen Center. The co-main event is really a main event in its own. It’s one of the most anticipated and asked for fights in another great weight class, the junior middleweight division where you have arguably two of the best, if not the two best fighters in that division against each other:  Jermall Charlo defending his title against top-rated challenger Julian Williams.
This is a fight Julian Williams has been waiting for, for a long time, and it’s a battle of unbeaten up and coming stars in their prime. There’s going to be a terrific, non-televised card as part of this event, as well. So, those people that are going to be able to make it out to the Galen Center, they’re going to really be in for a treat. I’m going to tell you about some of those fights, which my co-promotor, Tom Brown from TGB, has put together and I want to thank Tom for a job very well done. These are greatly matched fights, and I’m excited and looking forward to seeing them.
Included on the undercard is junior welterweight title eliminator featuring unbeaten Sergey Lipinets, with a record of 10-0, with 8 KOs, taking on Australia’s Lenny Zappavigna with a record of 35-2 with 25 KOs. Great match ups. They will also see a pair of undefeated prospects who are looking to cement their status as championship contenders. In the super welterweight division Erickson Lubin, who is 16-0, with 11 KOs of Orlando, Fla., and junior lightweight Mario Barrios, with a record of 16-0, with 8 KOs out of San Antonio.
The card will also include an array of local talent from Los Angeles or the greater Los Angeles area, including Oxnard’s Hugo Centeno, Jr. with a record of 24-1 with 12 KOs, former title challenger Josesito Lopez with a 33-7 record, with 19 KOs and personally one of my favorites. He’s always there to give a fight, just an amazing warrior and I’m happy to see Josesito Lopez on this card. Then we also are going to see Abner Mares’ younger brother, Adan Mares, who has a record of 14-3. I’m looking forward to having him there as well. It really is a can’t-miss night, and for those people here in Southern California, please come and see this card. It’s going to be great fighters, great matchups.
The doors are open at 3:30 pm, and the fights begins shortly thereafter. Tickets for the live event are on sale now, and they start at $35, yeah 35, what a steal. Students get a special $10 off. There’s a $25 student ticket available as well, and they’re available at www.galentix.com.
Now, the man who made is all happen and is not only a very close friend of mine but really a man with a passion for the sport of boxing, the Executive VP and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports, Stephen Espinoza.
Stephen Espinoza
This fight is one of the fights I’ve been most excited about on this year’s schedule. As many of you remember, this was a fight that was originally set for June and had to be rescheduled. It was such a strong fight that we didn’t want to lose that, and I know that required some sacrifice from both fighters, and we’re deeply appreciative for that. That they’re willing to wait shows what kind of guys both these guys are, as they’re looking for a challenge and neither one wanted to walk away from what, as Richard mentioned, could be one of the best fights of the year.
This is the fifth featherweight fight that SHOWTIME will be televising this year. It is one of the most talent, deep divisions, and we’re thrilled to have such a wealth of talent and thrilled to be focusing on it this year. It is a 50-50 fight between two fighters that are, in the consensus top six of the division supported by an incredibly strong undercard, and we are very happy and very proud to be ending the year on such a strong note. We look forward to December 10, and I’ll turn it over back to Richard.
R. Schaefer
Right, thank you very much Stephen. Now, it is a privilege for me to introduce to you Abner Mares. Abner Mares, as you all know is certainly one of the greatest fighters at this time to come out of Mexico. He was born in Guadalajara, Mexico. He was a 2004 Mexican Olympian and that is how long I’ve known him and how long I’ve been involved with his fights. He lives now and fights out of Downey, California and trains with one of the best trainers in his corner, Robert Garcia. If you look at his resume, it is as impressive as it comes. He is a former world champion at 118, 122 and 126 pounds, has really fought everybody and from Ponce de Leon, from Oquendo, from Moreno, from Darchinyan and the list goes on and on.
He will be fighting in California for the 10th time in his career, including his last bout which was a terrific Fight of the Year candidate against Leo Santa Cruz. Abner Mares is the kind of fighter, who in all the fights, has never been in a boring fight because he knows how to entertain. He wants to give it his best, and he has the will to win. Here he goes, at this point in his career, for yet another world title and it is a pleasure now to turn it over to Abner who can talk a little bit about training camp, what this fight means to him and maybe give us some Thanksgiving thoughts as well. Abner.
Abner Mares
Definitely, Richard. How you doing? I want to start out by thanking God. All you guys for making this possible, Richard, Stephen Espinoza and obviously, the great boxing fans out there who are always supporting and even the ones who are not there to support, they just give you a bad time, but you know at the end of the day, they support the sport in a way.
So, I’m really honored and privileged to be fighting December 10 in my hometown in LA. It’s going to be a great fight against a great fighter, Jesus Cuellar, a puncher, a guy who has a lot of strength, a guy that has lots to prove. Like Richard has mentioned, I’m just really looking forward to this fight. As you guys know, I’ve never been in a boring fight. I always entertain. I find a way to give you guys explosive fights and this will be just that. It will be an exciting fight, like Richard mentioned, this is perfect for an entertaining fight and I’m going to give you just that.
An early Christmas present to everyone, hopefully a late birthday present for me, since it’s going to be a week after my birthday. It’s going to be great. You can’t miss it, like Richard mentioned; in this stage of my career, I think this is my second wind. I’m looking forward to showing you guys a different Abner and what you guys don’t know already. This is going to be a year since I started training with well-known coach Robert Garcia, a whole year we had to train and get to know each other, so you will see the difference. So with that said, I think this is a fight you can’t miss on SHOWTIME. You can’t miss live at the USC Galen Center.
This is a Fight of the Year to close the end of the year and I’m looking forward to that — not so much looking forward to Thanksgiving like Richard said because we will still be on a diet, we won’t be able to eat as much, but obviously spending time with the family being thankful for everything that God has given us. It’s been a blessing. Thank you all for tuning in and thank you all again. I can’t wait for December 10th to make history once again and become a four-time world champion.
Q
Abner, you mentioned the year with Robert Garcia. How has it transformed you? How has it changed you from who you were?
A. Mares
I know once you get a new coach they tend to get a fight right away, and they tend to fight the next six to eight weeks, and you don’t see much of a difference. Why? Because you only have that small period of time to train and get to know each other, and I just mentioned a whole year with Robert and not only a whole year with Robert, a whole year of getting ready for this fight against a southpaw and you guys know what type of coach Robert is. Not only does he bring  education to your boxing skills but also that motivation, it’s always good to have that motivation knowing that you have one of the best in your corner. So, you will see a different Abner and I think the best way to answer your question is you will just see a more mature fighter in me.
Q
A lot of people who are looking at this fight are saying that dealing with Cuellar’s strength and power is going to be the most difficult thing for you. How do you get through that and what are your own thoughts?
A. Mares
Once you get hit hard or anything that you can’t think of happens in the ring, I don’t think it’s based on your experiences, it’s more based on your willingness, your heart and the desire to continue. I think that comes from deep inside, and I think I have that. I think I’ve showed it in many fights. I’ve had difficult times in different fights, so I think it just comes from inside. You can’t teach that, but again, yes, experience has helped a lot to get you out of certain things but, again, I think this is going to be one of the smartest fights we’re going to be able to fight.
Q
How disappointed were you and how surprised were you that you would were not allowed to fight that particular bout in Brooklyn because of the location of the match?
A. Mares
Well, it was difficult. It’s not the first time something like this has happened to me — not in the sense of me being injured or anything but a fight being cancelled. I’ve had fights being cancelled or postponed, years back so it’s nothing different. But I am a human being, I have feelings, obviously, and I just felt sad at the moment because I love to fight.
Yes, I was disappointed, not so much in myself, just the situation, but, again, I have to take people back. I’ve got them pretty much fighting this whole year. I was supposed to fight in March, that got postponed because of an injury and then it got postponed for June and then that June fight got postponed so here we are December 10th, and again it’s just a way of seeing that mental strength and that circle you have around you. You know my family kept me strong and those long talks with my advisor kept me going and again here we are and still healthy and we will continue to give you guys good fights.
Q
Abner, could you at all just explain the situation with the eye. For whatever reason, they have different rules in New York, but can you explain what that situation is with that eye and which eye is it?
A. Mares
It’s like you said, different rules for different states. We know they’re stricter on that side. I think that tells you they’re stricter and then, obviously, the issues they’re having at the moment and it’s nothing bad. It’s something that happened in 2008. I have been fighting since. I’ve been cleared in every state I’ve fought in, other than New York. I fight in California, I fight in Texas, I fight in Vegas. I fight in Philly, too. I think there was a red flag for them because, obviously, I had surgery done again in 2008 and they just didn’t want to take the risk, but again I think, like Richard, myself and my doctor said, we’re good to go. We have been. I have the same risk. I don’t have it higher or less than any fighter out there. My surgery is done. I’m good and like any other fighter I have the same risk of getting one open in the ring, so there’s no risk higher of me getting one.
Q
Abner, which eye was it you had the surgery on back in ’08?
A. Mares
It was in my left eye.
Q
Abner, do you have any concern whatsoever about rust?
A. Mares
Not at all, you have to see it and look at it on the positive side. Obviously, I haven’t been in the spotlight, no cameras around me, no lights, but I’ve been active. Since March, I’ve been getting ready for the fight. Every single fight has been postponed the week of the fight, so I’ve practically done training camps for two fights. So, that does not worry me, but if it happens you will feel it in the ring, and it’s just a matter of adjusting to it. It wears off within one or two rounds and just getting the rhythm of the fight going. I think we’re safe and we’ll be good.
Q
Richard, when you started to go and work on this fight did you have any issues with Abner’s medical situation or were you were sort of like surprised it was postponed and then, when he went through the testing you were very satisfied that everything was okay? What was your take on the postponement because of New York?
R. Schaefer
I think, first of all, New York has other issues related to boxing to well. With the insurance requirement they had a very difficult year, New York, as it situates to what happened with all the ins and outs of the commission and I think anybody in boxing or anybody would agree it’s a bit of a mess out there. Then you look at California. I think California is one of the best run if, frankly, not the best-run commissions and so of course when the fight was postponed or cancelled or whatever in New York, I not only talked to Abner and his wife. They were both in my office and I talked to them, but I asked Abner for permission to actually talk directly with his attorney and with his doctor, who is one of the most recognized surgeons and specialists as it relates to eyes and eye injuries in the world.
When I talked to the doctor I asked him straight out, is Abner okay? He said yes. I asked him is Abner at a higher risk than any fighter who enters the ring and he said absolutely not and that gave me the confidence to go forward and promote this fight. I had the same conversations with the California Commission and their medical board was satisfied with their requirements to make sure Abner was okay because of course if it’s the commission or anyone involved in this fight, first and foremost is fighter safety and Al Haymon, Abner’s advisor, asked me numerous times, I mean numerous times, and he said look if we’re going to do this fight, make sure Abner is okay and make sure he is absolutely okay, and I feel confident that I did that and so we’re ready to go.
R. Schaefer
Okay, great. We’re going to have Jesus make some comment and then opening up for both fighters to answer any questions.
It’s a pleasure for me to introduce to you the current WBA Featherweight World Champion with a record of 28-1 with 21 knockouts. He’s one of those other tough, hard hitting, fighters coming out of Argentina, in this case Buenos Aries and he’s in his first fight under legendary coach Freddie Roach, so you’re going to have an interesting matchup there also with Robert Garcia’s trained fighter, Abner Mares, against a Freddie Roach trained fighter Jesus Cuellar and you know those two guys, Roach and Garcia are very competitive, and so I think that adds some extra spice to the matchup. Cuellar won his world title in 2013 and has gone to defend it five times since then, including victories over Rico Ramos, Vic Darchinyan and Juan Manuel Lopez. It is a pleasure now to introduce Jesus Cuellar.
Jesus Cuellar
I feel very good. We’ve had a great training camp with Freddie and my entire team. I have been concentrating on this matchup and looking forward to the fight with Abner.
R. Schaefer
Okay, very good so let’s open it back up to questions now from the media. Any more questions for Abner or Jesus Cuellar please.
Q
What did that fight against Santa Cruz tell you about what you have left to offer in boxing?
A. Mares
I think that part itself tells you what I have left. I gave it my all. I think it was a close fight and it lets you know I have a lot left. I gave a hell of a fight and it’s just different styles. It didn’t really tell me anything other than that I’m ready for anything. It was a great fight against a great fighter and that’s it.
Q
Abner, without giving away any strategy or anything, what do think are some of the biggest improvements you’ve made working with Robert Garcia?
A. Mares
Wow. So, many but I think that number one is definitely on my basic punches, the one, two, hook, three-punch combination. I think we perfected those plus sitting down more, turning more on my punches. It’s crazy how you might think you’re throwing your punches good, and you’re not this whole time. So, I think I’ve learned how to turn more on my punches, how to sit better on my punches and I think my power is coming out really good. My sparring partner has helped me and I think you will see improvement in my power and my defense.
Q
I know he probably doesn’t speak to you about this much, but can you tell me what it would mean for you, because as Richard mentioned before, there’s an obvious rivalry between Robert and Freddie. What would it mean for you to win one for him?
A. Mares
Yes, like you said we don’t talk about that. It has nothing to do with Freddie Roach. I think it’s a fight between a fighter and myself and just winning the fight for us as a team will mean the world to us. We have no desire on throwing this in anyone’s face. It’s just a win, and there’s no rivalry.
Q
Abner, when you think back about your journey and the opportunities you’ve had in boxing, what are you most grateful for? What are some of the things you’re most grateful for this month, in advance of Thanksgiving?
A. Mares
First, all of the great people I have around me. My circle, my friends, the opportunities I’ve had, and just the opportunity to be fighting for another world title before the end of the year is something I’m really grateful and then I thank, obviously, the great team, SHOWTIME, my advisor and then everyone for this opportunity. I’m really looking forward to making myself and my family proud for everything overall. Like you said, I came from nothing to something and there is something I’m trying to do in this sport and that’s to just try and be an example for my kids and for the young kids growing up that anything is possible.
Q
Jesus, how long have you been with Freddie Roach so far in camp and how has that made a difference in your style and your confidence going into this fight?
J. Cuellar
I’ve definitely learned a lot. I feel extremely improved. We have a lot of confidence heading into this fight. I want to thank God for the all the blessings I’ve had. It’s been nice to go back to Argentina, but this was a great opportunity to come up with Freddie and get ready for December 10th.
Q
Do you think that your power and your size advantage make you different from southpaws Abner has faced in any way? What do feel separates you from those southpaws and or anyone else that Abner has faced?
J. Cuellar
I know that I have the size advantage and I’m the bigger fighter but I certainly cannot rely on that. I realize this is going to be a difficult matchup, and I have to bring my best because Abner is a heck of a talent.
Q
What are you thankful for in advance of Thanksgiving?
J. Cuellar
I’m relaxed, I’m calm and I’m thankful that I’m going to spend the time with my family and friends.
Q
This past Saturday we saw a very controversial decision with Ward and Kovalev. Abner, I’ll begin with you, when you see a very controversial decision like that, as a boxer, does it bother you the fact that we’re still seeing controversy when it comes to the judges and does that motivate you at all to try to go for the knockout, not to leave it in the judges hands?
A. Mares
I’m sorry, I’m not going to lie. I did not watch the fight. I wasn’t able to see the fight, because I had a turkey drive the following day on Sunday, so I was getting ready for that, but obviously I saw the tweets, I saw everything. I heard about it, and I heard it was a really controversial decision, but I think there’s no judges like the people. I think those are the ones that you have to prove something to, not so much the actual judges in the ring.
Though, I think it’s divided. I think 50 percent think Kovalec won and another 50 percent think Ward won. Coming from the ground and getting back up and just winning the fight speaks a lot for him. So, again I did not watch the fight. I can’t go into detail, and for myself you just take that and put it on my fight. I don’t have to do anything to impress the judges. I think just my boxing itself. I think we have professionals up there, and they’re going to do their jobs, so I don’t even have to think about that or put that in my head that I have to do something different just to impress the judges. No, I’m going to go in there and just do my job.
Q
You mentioned before, after your last fight was cancelled, that you spoke with Al Haymon and he gave you some advice and counsel to lift your spirits. What advice did he give you after your last fight was cancelled?
A. Mares
Just having him as a friend, as an advisor, just being positive, him saying Abner ‘we’re in this together.’ Just hearing those words, ‘we’re in this together, we’re going to get through it, we’re going to get you a fight soon. Do not worry.’ That did it all. I was, obviously, I was still worried but it calmed me down. It calmed me down and like I said here we are a couple of weeks away and, again, I’m really thankful for my team.
Q
Jesus, everyone who saw you at the news conference was talking about how big you were. Is weight going to be a problem for this fight and traditionally have you ever had any weight difficulties?
J. Cuellar
No, I’ve never had any issues when it comes to weight and I’m very thankful again for the training camp we’ve had and continue to have and I’m ready for the fight.
Q
How much do you weigh right now?
J. Cuellar
130.
Q
Jesus, why did you want to fight Abner specifically?
J. Cuellar
Well, Abner is a fantastic fighter and you have to beat the best in the world to be the best. Now we just have to get ready for December 10th in Los Angeles.
R. Schaefer
Okay, great. I want to thank all of the media members again. I know that many of you from the East Coast are planning on being here for this fight. I just want to say, I know you guys are going to be treated to a very special night. I am going to host a spectacular media dinner on Friday night as well. This is my first fight back, and I really couldn’t have asked for a better doubleheader with Cuellar and Abner Mares and Charlo and Williams and all the other fights I mentioned before. So, I’m really excited about the fights, but I’m really excited to see you guys from the East Coast as well and appreciate the relationship that we have and look forward to working with you. I’ll see you in a couple of weeks and Happy Thanksgiving to all of you and all of your families. Thank you very much.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and www.premierboxingchampions.com
,follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing,@JesusCuellarBOX, @AbnerMares, @FutureOfBoxing, @JRockBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.
PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Boxing Stars Badou Jack, James DeGale, Jose Pedraza & Gervonta Davis Give Back Before Thanksgiving Holiday & January 14 Showdowns

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(Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME)

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Fighters Deliver Thanksgiving Meals at

Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger in Brooklyn

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, January 14

from Barclays Center in Brooklyn

 

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/Mayweather Promotions/

DiBella Entertainment

 

BROOKLYN (November 22, 2016) – In the spirit of the Thanksgiving holiday, super middleweight world champions Badou Jack and James DeGale, plus junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten challenger Gervonta Davis, donated and distributed Thanksgiving meals at the Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger in Brooklyn before their press conference last Wednesday to discuss their respective January 14 showdowns taking place at Barclays Center and live on SHOWTIME.

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(Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME)

 

The fighters handed out 100 turkeys along with other Thanksgiving foods to help aid the organization that has provided millions of meals for people in the area. Hailing from countries all around the world, the fighters got together to give back in the borough that they will be competing in come January. To learn more about the Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger visit www.bedstuyagainsthunger.org.

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(Photo Credit: Tom Casino/Mayweather Promotions/DiBella Entertainment)

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

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(Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME)

 

# # #

 

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @ShowtimeBoxing @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing

ATLANTIC CITY BOXING HALL OF FAME WILL HOST ITS FIRST INAUGURAL INDUCTION WEEKEND MAY 26, 27 & 28, 2017

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*SAVE THE DATE*
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Atlantic City, NJ (November 22, 2016) – Calling all boxing fans! The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame will host their first inaugural Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Memorial Day Weekend 2017 at The Claridge – A Radisson Hotel located at Park Place & Boardwalk Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401.
The Claridge Hotel serves as the primary Corporate Sponsor for this knockout weekend which takes place May 26, 27 & 28, 2017 and will provide an exciting itinerary for participating guests. This historical weekend will include: On Friday May 26th An Exclusive Rooftop Cocktail Reception with the 2017 Honorees, Saturday May 27th, By Day, The ACBHOF Ultimate Fight Fan Experience! A winning combination of a highly interactive boxing & entertainment experience, engaging exhibits, collectors merchandise and memorabilia for purchase from some of the top industry fighters and brands in boxing, as well as picture and autograph sessions. By Evening,The Inaugural Red Carpet Meet & Greet, and an incredible event party with delectable food, live music, art & entertainment: At this Induction kickoff event, participating guests will witness The Historical Procession of Honorees. Sunday May 28th, The Official Induction Ceremony of The Atlantic Boxing Hall of Fame 2017 Honorees in Brighton Park, overlooking the beautiful Atlantic Ocean for a spectacular finish. A true boxing fans dream come true!
Atlantic City is known as one of the original boxing meccas, so it’s only fitting that some of boxing’s most iconic fighters and colorful personalities be honored and recognized for all they have done to help Atlantic City be known as a boxing destination.  A lineup of former and current boxing greats as well as celebrities from music and sports are anticipated.
“The Claridge is proud to be in partnership with the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame and to continue to promote professional boxing’s exceptional history in Atlantic City,” says Cem Erenler, vice president of Operations and Business Development for TMJ Properties, the owner and developer of The Claridge. The iconic hotel, which is now part of the global Radisson brand. first opened  in 1930. “Hosting this signature event is in the best traditions of The Claridge, which for more than 80 years has been Atlantic City’s center for exciting events in sports and entertainment,” Mr. Erenler said.
“There have been great fighters and other iconic figures such as “Iron” Mike Tyson, Atlantic City’s own Leavander Johnson, as well as Arturo “Thunder” Gatti and Don King who have participated in some of boxing most memorable boxing events right here in Atlantic City” stated Ray McCline President/Founder of the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.  “My core team of Roy Foreman, Rodrick Green and the esteem ACBHOF Nomination Committee will be announcing all future inductees on Monday November 28, 2016 via an official press release to the general public”

Over the next several months leading up to the ACBHOF  “2017” Induction weekend, updates on room packages, schedule of events and celebrity appearances will be posted on the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame and the Claridge Hotel websites.

All interested sponsors, business, organizations, exhibitors, and vendors looking be involved the induction weekend or to reserve a booth at it are encouraged to contact the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) at:

Tele: 1+ (609) 318 -3188 (USA)
P.O. Box #7221 Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401
Website: www.acbhof.com
Follow us: @ACBHOF on Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

A Very special thank you to our early sponsors
amateur mixed martial arts, Amateur MMA, CBS Sports Network, charity, Tuff-N-Uff

“Round 7, Operation Knockout” charity event for Randy Couture’s G.I. Foundation To air Sunday, Nov. 27 on CBS Sports Network

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LAS VEGAS (November 22, 2016) – The “Round 7, Operation Knockout” amateur mixed-martial-arts and grappling card, presented by Tuff-N-Uff in association with Neon Star Media, will air Sunday, November 27 (11 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. PT) on CBS Sports Network.
The seventh annual “Operation Knockout,” held this past Nov. 19th at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, was created to help Randy Couture’s G.I. Foundation raise funds and awareness for wounded soldiers and their families.
This exciting, unique charity event featured a night of amazing fights and a fabulous silent auction that featured gloves signed by Randy Couture, Luke Rockhold, Miesha Tate and Gray Maynard, tickets to Criss Angel, Rock of Ages and Legends in Concert, and many more items. There was something for everyone with nine amateur MMA fights, four of which were for title belts, and six super-fight grappling bouts featuring Bellator’s Ryan Couture, ex-UFC fighter Ulysses Gomez and current UFC fighter Anthony Birchak, former Bellator fighter and active military, Michael Parker, former Lion Fight fighter Fanny Tommasino, and current Combate Americas fighter and former Tuff-N-Uff fighter, Kyra Batara.
Veteran MMA announcers Sean Wheelock, Joey Varner and living legend Couture called all the action live from ringside.
“Tuff-N-Uff is honored to have a hand in helping to raise funds for and bring awareness to our brave service members who have sacrificed so much for our great country,” Tuff-N-Uff CEO Jeff Meyer said. “Any little bit helps and the least we could do was put together a fight card with the Future Stars of MMA, as well as some big names in MMA who participated.  We can’t thank everyone enough for helping put this amazing event together for a good cause.”
Xtreme Couture G.I. Foundation provides necessary support and services for wounded soldiers and their families, many of whom return with traumatic amputations, gunshot wounds, burns and blast injuries. One-hundred percent of the proceeds are given as Operation Knockout continues to build on its efforts to raise more money and help more wounded soldiers and their families. With help of its generous sponsors and donations, “Operation Knock” had raised more than $170,000 going into this year’s event.
“I can’t tell you how thankful I am for the support from Tuff-N-Uf, Downtown Las Vegas Events Center and the D Las Vegas of ‘Round 7, Operation Knockout’ and wounded veterans through xcgif.org,” Couture commented. “We at XCGIF appreciate your help and support of this cause.
“We train our warriors to suppress strong emotional reactions in the face of adversity, to tolerate physical and emotional pain, and overcome the fear of injury and death. The military can’t decrease the intensity of that conditioning without negatively affecting the fighting capability of our military. It is a Catch-22.  A chilling truth is service members are, simply put, more capable of killing themselves by sheer consequence of their professional training and we are losing 22 a day. This must change. We need to retrain our warriors on what defines success for them.”
“It’s going to be a great night of fighting and grappling. Thank you all for your contributions.”
CBS Sports Network is available across the United States through local cable, video and telco providers and via satellite on DirecTV Channel 221 and Dish Network Channel 158. For more information, including a full programming schedule and how to get CBS Sports Network, go to www.cbssportsnetwork.com
 
INFORMATION:
 
Twitter: @tuffnuff, @Neonstarmedia, @randy_Couture

 

 About Tuff-N- Uff:  A 22-year old combat sports organization, the Las Vegas-based TUFF-N- UFF presents the best amateur mixed martial arts (MMA) action in the nation. It has given rise to some of the biggest stars in the sport today, including former UFC bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, as well UFC and Strikeforce veteran Ryan Couture and UFC welterweight Alan Jouban. TUFF-N-UFF has helped grow the careers of many other MMA athletes including Jessamyn Duke, Ashlee Evans-Smith, Tonya Evinger, Jon Fitch, Jesse Forbes, Chris Holdsworth, Brad Imes, Jimmy Jones and Jesse Taylor. In 2013, TUFF-N- UFF became the first combat sports organization to be included on the UFC International Fight Week schedule of events. In 2014,

TUFF-N- UFF presented a second event Thursday, July 3 live from Texas Station, earning status as the first event promotion to be listed on the UFC International Fight Week schedule two years in a row. TUFF-N- UFF celebrated its historic 20th anniversary Saturday, June 7, 2014, with over 15,000 fans, in a sold-out live event inside the Thomas and Mack Center. In 2014, TUFF-N- UFF partnered with the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) to present, as part of UFC International Fight Week 2014, the first-ever amateur MMA World Championships. Jeff Meyer is the CEO of TUFF-N- UFF and runs the organization in dedication to his late brother, Barry Meyer, who founded TUFF-N- UFF in 1994. TUFF-N- UFF is committed to growing the sport of MMA and building the “Future Stars of MMA”.
 
About Neon Star Media LLC:  Neon Star Media is a marketing and content company that creates highly effective brand-integration experiences for our clients, executed through a unique “story-telling” approach that empowers client’s product messaging to soar while delivering results. At Neon Star Media, we maximize client media spends by leveraging our relationships with various sporting events, cable channels, digital platforms and other social media outlets.  We work with our clients to engage, endorse and advance their message with audiences on all platforms 24/7.
 
About the D Las Vegas:  the D Las Vegas delivers the fresh, energetic attitude and fun atmosphere synonymous with downtown Las Vegas. The new casino hotel boasts 629 remodeled rooms and suites and a unique two-level casino featuring modern and vintage floors. Cocktails, beer and frozen beverages abound inside the casino at LONGBAR and on the Fremont Street Experience at D Bar.  the D offers contemporary American fare at D Grill, Detroit’s legendary Coney Dogs at American Coney Island and premium steaks and authentic Italian dishes at Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse. The Showroom at the D Las Vegas features outstanding entertainment ranging from award-winning dinner theater and Broadway productions to music, comedy and more. Follow the D on Facebook and Twitter.
About Downtown Las Vegas Events Center:  Located at the corner of Third St. and Carson Ave. across from the D Las Vegas, the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center can accommodate up to 11,000 guests and features state-of-the-art stage, sound and lighting. The open-air design is inviting to both tourists and locals and offers the perfect spot for concerts, conventions and other large-scale events. Embracing the uninhibited spirit of Downtown Las Vegas, the new venue plays host to a line-up of curated events including premier concerts, food festivals and more. The venue is also the first entertainment arena in Las Vegas to accept Bitcoin as currency. For more information, visit www.dlvec.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @dlveventscenter.
Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, WMMAA

2016 World MMA Championships November 26-27 in Macau

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

MONTE CARLO, Monaco (November 22, 2016)- The best amateur mixed-martial-arts fighters in the world will compete Nov. 26-27 at the World MMA Championships in Studio City, Macau, China.
Close to 100 fighters have registered to compete.  The 2016 European (Russia) and Asian (Kazakhstan) team champions head a list that includes Spain, Australia, Belgian, China, Colombia, France, Czech Republic, Hong Kong, Tajikistan, Germany, Hungary, Macao, Nepal, India, South Korea, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Taiwan and Uzbekistan.
We’re looking forward to the World MMA Championship in Macau on November 26-27,” WMMAA president Vadim Finkelchtein said. “We expect spectacular, competitive fights.”
The WMMAA Congress will also be held to discuss MMA issues relative to children and women, as well as countries being decided to host the 2017 European, Asian and World MMA Championships. A judicial committee will also be created and seminars held for coaches, judges and medical specialists in each country.”
INFORMATION:
Twitter:  @theWMMAA
Instagram: @worldmmaa
ABOUT WMMAA:  The goal of the World MMA Association is to provide unbiased structure and guardrail the growth of MMA as the official world governing body for Mixed Martial Arts.  A non-profit organization founded in 2012, WMMAA is on a mission to develop a standardized and regulated organization, including competition, training, officiating, testing and growth when necessary.  More than 50 countries have been granted WMMAA membership.
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Undefeated Contender Sergey Lipinets Battles Australia’s Lenny Zappavigna in Junior Welterweight World Title Eliminator as Part of Undercard Action Saturday, December 10 from Galen Center at USC in Los Angeles

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Plus! Undefeated Rising Prospects 
Erickson Lubin & Mario Barrio in Action 
While Local Talent including Hugo Centeno Jr.,
Josesito Lopez and Adan Mares Enter the Ring
 
LOS ANGELES (November 21, 2016) – An exciting night of undercard action comes to Los Angeles on Saturday, December 10 and is highlighted by hard-hitting unbeaten contender Sergey Lipinets (10-0, 8 KOs) in a 12-round junior welterweight world title eliminator against Australia’s Lenny Zappavigna (35-2, 25 KOs) from Galen Center at USC.
The December 10 event is headlined by a featherweight world championship showdown between WBA titleholder Jesus Cuellar and former three-division world champion Abner Mares. The live SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXINGâ telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with junior middleweight world champion Jermall Charlo taking on undefeated top contender Julian Williams in a matchup of undefeated rising stars in their prime.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are priced at $35, $50, $75, $150 and $200. To purchase tickets go to www.galentix.com.
Also featured as part of the jam-packed night of fights are undefeated rising contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin (16-0, 11 KOs) in a junior middleweight bout and Mario Barrios (16-0, 8 KOs) battling Argentina’s Claudio Rosendo Tapia (24-18-4, 9 KOs) in junior lightweight action.
An array of talented fighters from the Los-Angeles area round out the evening as Oxnard’s Hugo “The Boss” Centeno Jr. (24-1, 12 KOs) competes in a middleweight attraction, former title challenger Josesito Lopez (33-7, 19 KOs) of Riverside in a six-round welterweight fight and Abner Mares’ younger brother, Adan Mares (14-1-3, 3 KOs) enters the ring in a lightweight bout.
An accomplished amateur who was born in Kazakhstan but fights out of Russia,Lipinets turned pro in April of 2014 with a decision victory over Franklin Varela. The 27-year-old recorded six knockouts in a row before stepping up in competition and impressing with a victory over Haskell Lydell Rhodes in March 2015 and a knockout of Levan Ghvamichava in March. He kept the momentum going in July when he stopped established contender Walter Castillo in the seventh round. He will challenge the 29-year-old Zappavigna out of New South Wales, Australia. He enters this fight the winner of his last 10 contests, including his most recent triumph, a sixth-round stoppage of Ik Yang in July.
A highly regarded prospect with an exciting style, the 21-year-old Lubin burst onto the scene looking to finish opponents early as he cements his status as an elite contender. Fighting out of Orlando, he has already taken down experienced veterans including Orlando Lora, Ayi Bruce, Michael Finney and Norberto Gonzalez. He was sensational in November 2015 when he knocked out Alexis Camacho and in January he headlined his first card and dominated Jose De Jesus Macias in his first 10-round bout. He has kept the hot streak going in June by stopping veteran Daniel Sandoval in the third round and dominating veteran Ivan Montero in July.
A tall junior lightweight at more than six feet, the 21-year-old Barrios picked up seven victories in a jam-packed 2015 in which he stopped five opponents inside the distance, including an uppercut left hook combo that ended the night for Manuel Vides last December. The San Antonio-native turned pro in 2013 and is on the fast track towards a world title shot as he most recently defeated Devis Boschiero in a title eliminator in July. Now he looks to stay unbeaten in a matchup against Tapia out of Mendoza, Argentina.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.premierboxingchampions.com,follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing, @JesusCuellarBOX, @AbnerMares, @FutureOfBoxing, @JRockBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports andwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing

Michael Dutchover remains perfect with 51 second stoppage

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Philadelphia, Penn./Ontario, Calif. (Nov. 21, 2016) -Junior lightweight Michael Dutchover (2-0, 2 KOs) kicked off this past Friday’s “New Blood” boxing event in Ontario, CA. with a devastating first round knockout of Sergio Campos (0-1). Dutchover bolted out of his corner with a fierce attack that put Campos, who was making his professional debut, on the defensive immediately. Dutchover unloaded power shots to the body and landed a left hook that dropped Campos for good at the :51 mark.
Dutchover fights out of Midland, Tex. and is trained by Danny Zamora. He is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

PHOTO CREDIT: CARLOS BAEZA / THOMPSON BOXING PROMOTIONS
amateur mixed martial arts, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

BLOOD REIGNS SUPREME ON FINAL LEWISTON FIGHT CARD OF 2016

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lewiston, Maine (November 19, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF) held its latest mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 26: SUPREMACY” on Saturday night at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine.  The promotion presented a total of 14 MMA bouts before a robust crowd of fight fans.

 

Blood flowed early and it continued to flow liberally throughout the night.

 

In the main event of the evening, Ryan Sanders (12-8) defeated Jon Lemke (5-7) via unanimous technical decision.  The fight was stopped in the third round when Lemke suffered a deep cut on his head.  With the fight being in the third round, under the Unified Rules of MMA the judges’ scorecards were called upon for a verdict.  Sanders won 20-18 on all three judges’ scorecards, having scored only the first two rounds.

 

The co-main event saw Josh Parker (5-8) submit Derek Shorey (4-8) in the first-round of a highly-anticipated “coach vs. coach” battle.

 

Rounding out the professional portion of the card, Aaron Lacey (4-0) remained undefeated with a verbal submission win over veteran Taylor Trahan (6-7).

 

Nick Gulliver (4-0) of Farmington, Maine captured the NEF Amateur Heavyweight Title with a victory over Yorgan DeCastro (2-3) as the headliner of the amateur card.

 

The results from Lewiston, Maine:

 

PROFESSIONAL MMA

 

Ryan Sanders def. Jon Lemke via unanimous technical decision

Josh Parker def. Derek Shorey via guillotine, round 1

Aaron Lacey def. Taylor Trahan via verbal submission, round 1

 

AMATEUR MMA

 

Nick Gulliver def. Yorgan DeCastro via TKO, round 3

Chris Smith def. Nash Roy via guillotine, round 1

Angelo Rizzitello def. Ken Dunn via TKO, round 1

Fred Lear def. Robby Fraser via standing guillotine, round 2

Mike Williams def. Mike Swan via TKO, round 2

Ras Hylton def. Kevin Smith via TKO, round 2

Tom Burgess def. Darren Ducharme via TKO, round 1

Fernanda Araujo def. Hannah Sparrell via armbar, round 2

Shawn Lunghi def. Alex Clark via rear-naked choke, round 2

Jessica Borga def. Brianne Genschel via unanimous decision

Chad Pierce def. Lyman Curtis via unanimous decision

 

NEF’s next event, “NEF 27: RESURGENCE” takes place on Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 7 p.m.  Tickets start at $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisee box office at 207.783.2009, extension 525.

 

For more information on the event and fight card updates, please visit the promotion’s website at www.NewEnglandFights.com.  In addition, you can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

 

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

Undefeated M-1 Challenge Welterweight Champion Alexey Kuchenko decisions Murad Abdulaev in rematch 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
M-1 CHALLENGE 72 RESULTS
MOSCOW (November 19, 2016) – In his first title defense, M-1 Challenge welterweight champion Alexey Kuchenko(15-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0) won a five-round decision over challenger Murad “Hunter” Abdulaev (15-5-0, M-1: 3-3-0) last night in a rematch to headline M-1 Challenge 72 in Mowcow.
Kunchenko, fighting out of Tyumen, Russia, defeated defending champion Abdulaev, of Russia, last April at M-1 Challenge 65 when he was unable to continue in round four.
Rising Russian middleweight star Artem Frolov (8-0-0, M-1: 5-0-0) also remained unbeaten, stopping veteran American fighter Luigi “The Italian Tank” Fioravanti (26-15-0, M-1: 4-4-0), a former M-1 Challenge middleweight title challenger, on punches in the opening round.
Former M-1 Challenge lightweight champion Artiom Damkovsky (22-10-0, M-1: 12-7-0), of Belarus, may have positioned himself for another title shot by defeating Russian Alexey “Ataman” Makhno (13-5-0, 3-2-0), whose corner stopped the fight in the third round.
Kazak lightweight Damir Ismagulov (9-2-0, M-1: 5-1-0), fighting out of Russia, won a three-round unanimous decision over Brazilian Rubenilton “Rubinho” Pereira (16-4-0, M-1: 0-2-0), while Croatian middleweight Kristijan “Pacman” Perak (9-3-2 (M-1: 0-2-2) and Talekh “The Azerbaijan Terminator” Nadzhafzade (4-1-1, M-1: 2-0-1) fought to a three-round draw.
In preliminary card action, Russian featherweight Timor Nagibin (8-2-0, M-1: 3-2-0) knocked out Russian Kurbanali Abdusalamov (6-3-0), M-1: 4-1-1) ibn the third round, French bantamweight Moktar “Le Kabyle” Benkaci (12-6-0, M-1: 2-1-0) punched out Ukrainian Alexey Naumov (13-4-0, M-1: 1-3-0) in three rounds, Russian welterweight Danila Prikaza (5-1-1, M-1: 3-1-0) won a hard fought three-round decision over Croatian veteran Ivica “Terror” Truscek (31-28-0, M-1: 0-4-0), Ukrainian bantamweight Alexsandr Lunga (9-8-0, M-1: 1-0-0) took a three-round split decision from Russian Bair Shtepin (3-2-0, M-1: 0-2-0), Russian light heavyweight Artur Tyulparov (1-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0) won his pro debut by way of an opening round submission by way of a guillotine choke over Czech Michal Kotalik (2-1-1, M-1: 0-1-0), and Russian welterweight Adam Bakaev (1-1-0, M-1: 1-0–0) submitted Maksim “Mad Max” Melnik (2-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0).
 
Results and photo gallery below:
 
 
 
MAIN CARD
MAIN EVENT — M-1 CHALLENGE WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Alexey Kuchenko (15-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0), Russia
WDEC5
Murad Abdulaev (15-5-0, M-1: 3-3-0), Russia
(Kuchenko retained M-1 Challenge welterweight title)
MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Artem Frolov (8-0-0, M-1: 5-0-0), Russia
WTKO1 (Punches – 2:11)
Luigi Fioravanti (26-15-0, M-1: 4-4-0) USA
Kristijan Perak (9-3-2, M-1: 0-2-2, Croatia
D3
Talekh Nadzhafzade (4-1-1, M-1: 2-0-1), Azerbaijan
LIGHTWEIGHTS
Artiom Damkovsky (22-10-0, M-1: 12-7-0), Belarus
WTKO3 (Corner Stoppage – 1:01)
Alexey Makhno (13-5-0, M-1: 3-2-0), Russia
Damir Ismagulov (9-2-0, M-1: 5-1-0), Russia by way of Kazakhstan
WDEC3
Rubenilton Pereira (16-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Brazil
PRELIMINARY CARD
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Artur Tyulparov (1-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia
WSUB1 (Guillotine Choke – 0:47)
Michal Kotalik (2-1-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Czech Republic
WELTERWEIGHTS
Danila Prikaza (5-1-1, M-1: 3-1-0), Russia
WDEC3
Ivica Truscek (31-28-0, M-1: 0-4-0), Croatia
Adam Bakaev (1-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia
WSUB (Choke)
Maksim Melnik (2-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Ukfaine
FEATHERWEIGHTS
Timor Nagibin (8-2-0, M-1: 4-1-0), Russia
WTKO3 (Punches – 4:03)
Kurbanali Abdusalamov (6-3-0, M-1: 4-1-0), Russia
BANTAMWEIGHTS
Alexey Naumov (13-4-0, M-1: 2-2-0), Ukraine
WTKO3 (Punches – 4:08)
Moktar Benkaci (11-7-0, M-1: 1-2-0), France
Alexsandr Lunga (9-8-0, M-1: 1-0-0) Ukraine
WDEC3WDEC3DEC3
Bair Shtepin (3-2-0, M-1: 0-2-0), Russia
 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEXT SHOW: Dec. 17, M-1 Challenge 73, Igushetia, Russia
INFORMATION:

www.M1Global.tv

Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
@VFinkelchtein
@M1Global
HBO Boxing, Roc Nation

SERGEY KOVALEV VS. ANDRE WARD OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN VIDEO, QUOTES & PHOTOS

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KOVALEV-WARD “POUND FOR POUND”

SET FOR SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19

AT T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW®

 

 

Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Main Events/David Spagnolo

 

Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Roc Nation Sports/Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos

 

Sergey Kovalev vs. Andre Ward Official Weigh-In (Click to Watch)

 

LAS VEGAS, NV (November 19, 2016) – In front of a packed crowd at MGM Grand Garden Arena, WBO, WBA and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-0-1, 26 KOs) and Two-Time World Champion Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (30-0, 15 KOs) faced off at the official weigh-in ahead of their ultimate showdown on Saturday, Nov. 19 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Joining them at the public event were all of the undercard fighters.

 

Kovalev vs. Ward “Pound For Pound”, a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA light heavyweight title at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, is presented by Main Events, Roc Nation Sports, Krusher Promotions and Andre Ward Promotions and is sponsored by the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Corona Extra, Monster Products, JetLux, Zappos, Jordan Brand and Shoe Palace. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Tickets are available on axs.com and the T-Mobile Arena box office.

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