Tag Archives: Adrian Granados

Unbeaten Prospect & Cincinnati-Native Jamontay Clark Battles Nicaragua’s Santos Benavides in Undercard Action Saturday, February 18 From the Cintas Center  at Xavier University in Cincinnati

 
Exciting Prospects Round Out Night of Action Headlined by
Adrien Broner Facing Hard-Hitting Adrian Granados 
in Main Event
 
CINCINNATI (February 15, 2017) – Unbeaten prospect Jamontay Clark (10-0, 6 KOs) meets Nicaragua’s Santos Benavides (25-11-2, 19 KOs) in an eight-round bout that highlights an exciting undercard on Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
The event is headlined by former four-division world champion Adrien Broner taking on hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan facing former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson and unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Additional action will feature unbeaten Indianapolis-native Curtis Hill Jr. (9-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout against Cory Dulaney (5-3-1, 1 KO) and unbeaten Cincinnati-native Santino Turnbow (3-0, 2 KOs) taking on Joe Miller Jr. (1-1) in a four-round cruiserweight showdown.
Rounding out the night is Cincinnati’s Desmons Jarman and Honduras-native David Quay in a four-round super featherweight and Atlanta’s Tra-Kwon Pettis (5-2, 1 KO) facing Milwaukee’s Mike Fowler (5-4, 2 KOs) in a four-round lightweight contest.
An unbeaten prospect fight at home in Cincinnati, the “Quiet Assassin” Clark picked up two victories in 2016 over increasingly quality competition as he stopped Elvin Perez in six rounds and earned a unanimous decision over Edgar Ortega. The 22-year-old last fought in his hometown in 2015 when he recorded a second round TKO of Joe Wilson Jr. and his fight on February 18 will make his third pro appearance in Cincinnati. He prepares to take on Benavides out of Chontales, Nicaragua who owns victories over Jay Krupp, Cody Richard and Joel Cerrud.
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ABOUT ADRIEN BRONER vs. ADRIAN GRANADOS
Adrien Broner vs. Adrian Granados will take place Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH live on SHOWTIME. Televised coverage on begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown. Also featured will be WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

ADRIAN GRANADOS REVEALS HIS MOTIVATION FOR FEBRUARY 18 BOUT IN AN INTIMATE CONVERSATION WITH MARK KRIEGEL

“I broke down and cried and screamed to coach, ‘I’m going to win this fight. I’m going to win this fight for him.’” – Adrian Granados

 

THE REVEAL with Mark Kriegel: Adrian Granados

http://s.sho.com/2kXNzH2

Photo/Video Credit: SHOWTIME

 

Top-rated contender Adrian Granados opens up in an intimate interview with Sports Emmy® Award-Winning writer Mark Kriegel in the latest edition of the reoccurring SHOWTIME Sports® digital series, THE REVEAL with Mark Kriegel.

 

As Granados prepares to meet four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, Feb. 18, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) in Cincinnati, Ohio, he talks about his struggles, the loss of his long-time friend Ed Brown and what lies ahead for him on fight night.

 

A tough Mexican-American from Chicago, Granados enters this fight on a five-bout winning streak, including his impressive stoppage over then unbeaten top contenderAmir Imam in November 2015. Most recently, the 27-year-old dominated Ariel Vasquez over eight rounds in July. With a win over Broner, Granados can position himself for his first career world title shot.

 

Below are excerpts from the interview:

 

MARK KRIEGEL: “What does this fight represent to you?”

 

ADRIAN GRANADOS: “Cubs just won. This is my own World Series, you know. It took me this long to finally get a big fight, but I got it. This is going to be my coming out. I know a lot of people don’t know who I am. Those who do know me, they know I come to fight.”

 

KRIEGEL: “One of the guys who does know you is Adrien Broner. You were in his camp for Marcos Maidana. What stands out to [you] about him?”

 

GRANADOS: “He’s a great fighter. I mean, it’s no fluke that he is a four-division world champion.”

 

KRIEGEL: “Did he ever hurt you?”

 

GRANADOS: “Definitely, we are humans. He can crack. He just had that explosive power. He had 16-ounce gloves and it felt like he was hitting me with his bare fist. He just hits hard.”

 

KRIEGEL: “Did you ever hurt him?”

 

GRANADOS: “Definitely. I know I did. He may not admit it. Yeah, I know I had him bloodied a couple times. I know I had him backing up a couple of times. You just know as a fighter when you crack somebody.”

 

On the passing of top prospect and friend Ed Brown…

 

GRANADOS: “I believe it was a Sunday. I was in a barbershop…They were like, ‘I heard about your boy.’ And I’m … trying to keep it together. I just called George, our coach. He told me, ’Yeah man, Ed has died. Ed is dead.’ And right there I broke down and cried and screamed to coach, ‘I’m going to win this fight. I’m going to win this fight for him.’”

ADRIEN BRONER OPENS UP IN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MARK KRIEGEL

 

 

 

“Somedays you are just feeling good. Then you got some days that you just feel like, you know, the worst ever…I’m just glad to God that I got out of that mind state and I’m back on a more positive path.” – Adrien Broner

 

The Reveal with Mark Kriegel: Adrien Broner

http://s.sho.com/2kOYX86

 

Photo/Video Credit: SHOWTIME

 

Former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner opens up in an extensive interview with Sports Emmy® Award-Winning writer Mark Kriegel as he prepares for his welterweight showdown against top-rated contender Adrian Granados Saturday, Feb. 18, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio.

 

This interview is the latest in a reoccurring SHOWTIME Sports® digital series, THE REVEAL with Mark Kriegel, featuring exclusive and in-depth interviews with boxing’s emerging stars.

 

Broner is one of the most accomplished and outspoken young stars in the sport of boxing. After picking up world titles at 130, 135 and 147 pounds, Broner earned a belt in a fourth weight division (140 pounds) in October 2015 when he defeated tough Russian Khabib Allakhverdiev via a stoppage in the 12th round in his last hometown appearance. He’s 9-1 in world title fights and this will be the 15th time he fights as a pro in front of his hometown crowd.

 

Below are bites from the interview:

 

KRIEGEL: “You’ve been around a lot of death. You’ve seen a lot.”

BRONER: “Yeah.”

KRIEGEL: “Do you care to remember for me?”

BRONER: “I remember, but I try to forget. You know, I found out the hard way. And I’ve seen that I gotta maneuver different and that’s why I’m maneuvering differently. That’s why I put as many positive people in front of me as possible.”

MARK KRIEGEL: “Let me ask you about this year. It’s been a tough year for you. You did 30 days for contempt. What was that like?”

 

ADRIEN BRONER: “You know, I did a year at that place. Fighting a case.”

 

KRIEGEL: “As a juvenile?”

 

BRONER: “No, they tried me as an adult. I was only 17 at the time… I missed on the pre-trials. Boom. I beat it. I get out and I become Adrien Broner. My lifestyle is totally different. And then, one day, I wake up back in the same place—I was in one of the same [cells] I was in when I did the year.”

 

KRIEGEL: “What did you tell yourself?”

 

BRONER: “I made it the best that I can make it. But, you know, when I was in there. I used to be by myself. I used to try to be by myself as much as possible. But, I told them to put me in general population—because they wanted to put me in protective custody. I can’t do 30 days like that… I helped the whole unit…I just made it a better place at the time. If somebody needs something to eat, I gave them something to eat.”

 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSportsand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Adrian Granados Chicago Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Hard-Hitting Contender Battles Former Four-Division World Champion Adrien Broner in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Main Event Saturday, February 18 From the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati & Live on SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Barnes/SHOWTIME
 
CHICAGO (February 7, 2017) – Hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados hosted Chicago media at the Garfield Park District Fieldhouse Tuesday as he prepares for his main event showdown with former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati and live on SHOWTIME.
Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown and also features WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Granados has pledged to dedicate the fight to his friend and former training partner Ed Brown, who fell victim to the violence on Chicago’s West Side in December 2016.
Here is what Granados, along with his trainer George Hernandez, had to say Tuesday:
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“We finally have a huge opportunity. I feel I paid my dues. I know Amir Imam wasn’t a fluke. And the robberies on my record were just that – robberies. You get in the ring with Adrian Granados and you’re going to get a hell of a fight.

“I wasn’t intimated by Broner when we sparred and I’m not intimidated by him now. I know I belong in this fight, at this level.

“It’s a tough fight. People are saying I’m going to have to fight like Marcos Maidana.  But I’m going to be Adrian Granados and I’m going to win my way.

“With our two styles it’s going to be a firefight. It can’t be anything but exciting. I have a great team behind me and I can’t wait to make everyone proud.

“Ed Brown was the heart of this neighborhood, and now I need to carry on his legacy. This is my opportunity to do something for my career, but also this community. I have to be twice as great, for me and him.

“Winning this fight not only changes my life, but it changes a lot of other lives. Beating Broner would change the sport in Chicago.

“It’s very motivating to know that I’m an inspirational figure for people in Chicago. It helps me get through those long days in the gym, when you don’t want to get up and train. I know what I’m fighting for and I use it as motivation.
“I started fighting in high school just shadowing my friends when they went to the gym. I asked my mom and dad if I could keep going and luckily they helped me get started and get on this path to where I am.”
GEORGE HERNANDEZ, Granados’ Trainer
“Broner puts his gloves on the same way we do. This is what we want. We want the big names. Beating Broner can get us to the next level.

“No one is going to give us anything. We need to earn it. We’re going to his backyard and we’re going to take it from him.

“This is one of the toughest areas to train in. If you can persevere through that you know you can make it in this sport. We could have gone away for camp but we wanted to stay here because it’s home. The only way to make this city better is by staying here and leading the charge and showing these kids that we can get away from that norm and bring better attention to this area.

“If Adrian can beat the hell out of this kid in his hometown that will send a message to all the kids in this community. It will let them know that you can succeed and do great things. Every kid that’s in here dreams of this opportunity. We’re ready and we’re not going to let it slip away.”

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

Former Two-Time World Champion Lamont Peterson Washington, D.C. Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
D.C.-Native Battles WBA Champion David Avanesyan
Saturday, February 18 From the Cintas Center
 at Xavier University in Cincinnati & Live on SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Wallace Barron
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 7, 2017) – Former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson hosted a media workout in his hometown of Washington, D.C. as he prepares to take on WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan in a 12-round matchup that serves as the co-main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown. The event is headlined by former four-division world champion Adrien Broner taking on hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Here is what Peterson and his longtime trainer Barry Hunter had to say Tuesday from the Bald Eagle Recreation Center:
LAMONT PETERSON
“I’m going through a full-blown training camp and I’ve had a lot of energy. I think the strength will be there too but I’m an energy fighter. I like to put pressure and use my energy. Look for an improved Lamont Peterson.
“People are going to talk a lot about my layoff but honestly that only affects people who aren’t always in the gym. I have been in the gym working hard this entire time. I’ve been working on my craft. I got better and you’ll see on February 18.
“Avanesyan is a good fighter. He keeps his hands up high, so even though he’s there to be hit, it doesn’t mean I’m going to get good clean shots. It should be a good entertaining fight and a good first step at welterweight for me.
“Big fights are what matters to me. When you’re coming up it’s all about winning a title. Having fought for 12 years, it doesn’t matter to me as much. The way I’m looking at is, if I get this win then I’m the No. 1 contender for the belt.
“I have no concern about ring rust. It’s not even a thought in my head. I would be shocked if that was a problem for me.
“You never know what the right time is to move up in weight, but the time is now for me to move up to welterweight and I’m happy about it. Making 140 pounds was getting tough. I think it hampered my performances a bit and that let us know it was time.
“I’ve been wanting to move up but it seemed like my opportunities were down in weight. Now I’m ready to mix it up with the best guys here.
“For me, it’s all about the joy of getting in the ring and competing. I want to do it at the highest level and I’m looking forward to getting big fights.”
BARRY HUNTER, Peterson’s Trainer
“Sometimes having time off like Lamont had is not a bad thing. It gives you space and time to work on your mental game, shore up some things you could be weak at and of course it lets you heal up. It’s served us well and I’m happy with what I see from Lamont so far.
“We always approach an opponent, no matter the record, like they are a world champion. We prepare for war. If anything less than that takes place, so be it. We’re going to be ready. To me Avanesyan is a guy who is an obstacle in our way. If we can’t go around him, we’ll go right through him.
“We want all of the top 147-pounders. I always thought Lamont and Danny Garcia was a fight that warranted a rematch. Because it was a great fight that had a little bit of controversy around it. I still would like to see the rematch.”
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan Battles Former Two-Time World Champion Lamont Peterson & Unbeaten Contender Marcus Browne Takes On Former Title Challenger Thomas Williams Jr. Saturday, February 18 Live on SHOWTIME

WBA Champion David Avanesyan Battles 
Former Two-Time World Champion Lamont Peterson 
in Welterweight Title Defense
&
Unbeaten Contender Marcus Browne Takes On 
Former Title Challenger Thomas Williams Jr. In
 Light Heavyweight Showdown
Live on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
Saturday, February 18 From the Cintas Center
 at Xavier University in Cincinnati
 
CINCINNATI (January 24, 2017) -WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan (22-1-1, 11 KOs) will defend his title against former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson (34-3-1, 17 KOs) in a 12-round matchup that serves as the co-main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender “Sir” Marcus Browne (18-0, 13 KOs) meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. (20-2, 14 KOs) in a 10-round showdown. The event is headlined by former four-division world champion Adrien Broner taking on hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados.
“It is a great pleasure for me to be defending my world title in the U.S. against a very good opponent in Lamont Peterson,” said Avanesyan. “I am the champion and come February 18 I will remain champion. This fight gives me a great opportunity to let the U.S. know what I’m about and put me in a position to fight the top fighters in the division. This will be a difficult defense but I am ready to show everyone how good I am.”
“I’m extremely excited about getting back in the ring and fighting on SHOWTIME again,” said Peterson. “I’ve been working hard in the gym and I’m ready to give my fans the kind of show they deserve. I know this guy is coming in with a lot of confidence from that belt, but I believe I’m the better fighter and I’ll prove it on February 18.”
“I’m ready to go to work and fight,” said Browne. “It doesn’t matter if I am the underdog; so be it. Let me be the underdog. I just want to beat this guy up. This is who I wanted to fight. I am fired up about this one and I can’t wait until February 18.”
“On February 18, I’m not leaving anything up to the judges,” said Williams Jr. “I think Marcus has gotten some gifts in the past, so I’m not leaving this up to anyone but myself. I wanted to stay in the mix. I don’t need a tune-up. I’ve been fighting since I was five-years-old. I just need to get in there and fight. I think this is going to be a really good battle.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Boxing, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Fighting out of Russia, Avanesyan defended his interim world title in his last outing when he defeated former three-division world champion Shane Mosley by unanimous decision last May. The 28-year-old is undefeated in his last 22 pro fights since dropping a six-round decision in his second pro fight.  Avanesyan picked up his interim belt with a ninth-round stoppage of Charlie Navarro in November of 2015.
Discovered as a child by trainer Barry Hunter while homeless on the street with his brother Anthony, Peterson has one of the best rags to riches stories in the sport. A pro since 2004, he owns victories over Victor Manuel Cayo, Kendall Holt and Dierry Jean in addition to the world title winning performance against Amir Khan, which he successfully defended three times. The Washington, D.C. native defeated previously unbeaten Felix Diaz in his last outing in October 2015.
The 26-year-old Browne defeated previously unbeaten Radivoje Kalajdzic in April 2016 after a big 2015 that saw him defeated veteran contenders Gabriel Campillo, Aaron Pryor Jr., Francisco Sierra and Cornelius White. The 2012 U.S. Olympian fights out of Staten Island, New York after an exceptional amateur career that saw him win the 2012 U.S. amateur championship at light heavyweight.
The 29-year-old Williams returns to the ring after dropping an exciting contest to light heavyweight world champion Adonis Stevenson in July. Williams earned his title shot after dominant second-round stoppages of Umberto Savigne and former title challenger Edwin Rodriguez. The Fort Washington, Maryland-native was introduced to boxing by his father, a former pro fighter and he will look to start his path back to world title contention with a win on February 18.
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Adrien Broner, Adrian Granados & Floyd Mayweather Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
Super Lightweight Showdown Headlines Action
Saturday, February 18 from Cintas Center at Xavier University
In Cincinnati & Live on SHOWTIME
®
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ian Bedgood/About Billions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions
 
CINCINNATI (January 10, 2017) — Former four-division world champion Adrien Broner hosted a press conference in his hometown of Cincinnati Tuesday as he prepares to return home to face hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados on Saturday, February 18from the Cintas Center at Xavier University and live on SHOWTIME®.
The press conference featured Mayweather Promotions President Floyd Mayweather, who will help promote the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING card that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Here is what the participants had to say on Tuesday:
ADRIEN BRONER
“I’ve fought at home a lot and to come back with another fight like this is an awesome feeling. I know it’s going to be a great night. It’s going to be a great night for Cincinnati and for my career.
“We’ve brought Granados into camp for sparring before but I’m a much different fighter now. I know he is too and I think it’s going to make an exciting, explosive fight. Granados is no pushover. He’s not an opponent that anybody can just pick up a win. I knew Adrian Granados will bring the best out of Adrien Broner.
“I know that I have what it takes to take over boxing. To do that I need to focus 100 percent on boxing and crafting my skills. That’s my mindset and that’s what I’m focused on.
“I’m here to do less talking, and more fighting and smiling. I’m going to put on a great show on February 18. It’s all about putting on great performances and winning.
“I go into every fight with the confidence to be myself. If I do what I have to do, I can be victorious. Granados is coming to fight. I have to be focused because he won’t lay down.
“It’s just about me doing better. It’s about changing for the better and being as positive as can be. I’m not bringing negativity to anything I do.
“I won’t have any distractions fighting at home. I know how to block everything out and stay focused on what’s in front of me.
“I’ve been on the downside and the upside of boxing, but my name has made it through. I’m not going to take my talent for granted and I’m going to change for the better.
“It’s great to have Floyd and Mayweather Promotions involved in this event. Floyd has always supported me and I owe him a lot. He’s really been a mentor to me.  He’s helped me stay level-headed throughout everything.
“Right now I’m all about my future, my kids, my team and putting on a great performance as a boxer. I’m always going to be entertaining, because I’m always going to be me.”
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“I’m confident that I’m more determined than any other fighter I’ll face. I’ll also have a few tricks up my sleeve on fight night. I haven’t shown everything in my arsenal.
“I was in camp with Adrien Broner when he fought Marcos Maidana, so I know him pretty well. I’ve been compared to Maidana, but everyone has their own style. I’m going to get this win my own way.
“I’m focused on what I have to do as a fighter. We have different weapons and we can mix it up and fight in different ways. The accumulation of my punches can wear a fighter down.
“It’s a great honor to be here and I’ve let Adrien know that I’m grateful for the opportunity. This is a great fight for boxing. There are a lot of great big fights out there and our fight isn’t as well-known, but if you know boxing, you know that I come to win.
“Adrien Broner is a great fighter. He’s a four-division champion and that’s no fluke. He’s fought everybody at the championship level. Now he’s giving me this opportunity and I’ve let it be known that the best man will win.
“We’re going to wait and see round by round. I don’t like going to the judges’ scorecard and fighting in his hometown, I’m going to try to get a knockout. I have to do anything in my power to keep the fight out of the judges’ hands.
“I’ve mostly fought at home in Chicago but I’ve always wanted a tough challenge on the road like this. I’m excited to step into someone’s backyard and be the villain who ruins the day.”
FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions
“These are going to be two hungry lions in the ring, and that’s what it’s all about. It’s about giving the people entertainment. Adrien Broner is flashy, flamboyant and outspoken. He’s still young and has a lot to go out there and prove. He doesn’t just want to show that he’s one of the best, but that he’s the best in the sport.
“You have to go out there every day and prove you’re the best. Adrian Granados is always in action-packed fights and he brings excitement. This is a great matchup. These guys know that they aren’t fighting pushovers. It’s the best versus the best.
“Both fighters have great trainers and great teams. I’ve helped pave the way for these guys, but so have these trainers. They’ve helped bring these men to this point. I think they both have potential to be stars.
“The sport of boxing is so interesting and there are so many great fights coming up. This is an important fight for the sport in a stretch where there are a lot of exciting matchups.
“I’m proud of Adrien Broner. He’s had a minor setback leading to major comeback. He’s going to come back better than ever. But he can’t overlook this opponent. You can look up and all of a sudden you’re down.
“No one can overlook Adrian Granados. It’s a really good matchup. This guy definitely reminds me of Marcos Maidana. I don’t know if he can punch like him, but the style and aggressiveness is there. He’s always in action packed fights.
“Adrien has speed and power, but I’m looking to see Adrien throwing combinations. That’s what some fighters lack nowadays. We think too much about ‘Money’ Mayweather, and forget about ‘Pretty Boy’ Floyd. He had a 90 percent knockout rate. I think we need to see an aggressive Adrien that will throw combinations while staying smart.
“I love being a promoter and giving back to young fighters. I didn’t become a promoter to make money. I did it because I want to make money for fighters and make their dreams come true. My company is easy to work with, because we’re only focused on the fighters.
“I want both fighters to give Cincinnati and the whole world a great fight. You’re young, hungry and dedicated. Show the world what you’re about.”
 
RAVONE LITTLEJOHN, CEO of About Billions
“This is going to be a great fight for the city of Cincinnati. Adrien is undefeated when he fights in his hometown. We can’t wait to do it again.
“It’s been a year since Adrien’s last fight in Cincinnati and we’re excited that the time is now. It’s going to be a tough fight. Adrien knows that Granados isn’t easy at all.
“We’ve brought Granados in as a sparring partner before so we know what we’re up against. I think this is a perfect matchup for Adrien and the fans to enjoy a great night of action.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“We know on February 18 that Adrien Broner is going to bring his best. He’s one of the top stars in the sport and I know that he’s going to put on a great show for his city.
“Adrian Granados has only lost by split or majority decision, no one has ever dominated this man. We know that he’s going to be there to make this a competitive fight.
“We’re looking forward to working with About Billions on making this a great, sold-out event. This venue is fabulous and we think it will be electric on fight night.”
 
MIKE STAFFORD, Broner’s Trainer
“Adrien has been training hard for this fight. This is about winning. Adrien wants to win and he wants to compete. This is a going to be an exciting and explosive fight.
“This is going to be a great fight with a great undercard. It’s going to be a fun atmosphere and we hope that everyone comes out and supports us on February 18.”
GEORGE HERNANDEZ, Granados’ Trainer
“Mike Stafford and I go all the way back to about 1978 at the Olympic training center. We’ve trained a lot of guys together and I know him very well. I’ve come here to bring fighters for sparring since Adrien Broner was a little kid.
“Adrien Broner has the big name and every fighter needs a big name so that he can take that step up. It’s a business and we’ll mean business inside the ring.”
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Former Four-Division World Champion Adrien Broner  Returns To Cincinnati Saturday, February 18 to Battle  Hard-Hitting Contender Adrian Granados From  the Cintas Center at Xavier University   Live on SHOWTIME®

 
Tickets on Sale Today at 3 p.m. ET!
 
CINCINNATI (January 10, 2017) – Former four-division world champion and Cincinnati-native Adrien “The Problem” Broner (32-2, 24 KOs) will headline in his hometown as he takes on hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados (18-4-2, 12 KOs) in the 12-round main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING live from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature exciting undercard action that will be announced shortly.
“I’m back at home and excited to get back in the ring,” said Broner. “I’m ready to fight. The boxing game isn’t the same without me. Granados is a solid guy who beat someone that no one thought he would beat. I know him well and I know there’s no doubt he’ll be ready to fight.”
“I’m fully prepared to go to war with Adrien Broner on February 18 in Cincinnati,” said Granados. “I’m very thankful to Tom Brown of TGB promotions and my manager Andy Zak for helping me get this big opportunity on SHOWTIME. I’m training hard and I will come out victorious on fight night.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale today at 3 p.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
“This is going to be a great fight and a great step forward for our company,” said Ravone Littlejohn, CEO of About Billions. “Cincinnati appreciates when Adrien fights at home. Boxing provides a thrill that exceeds other professional sports in our area.”
“Mayweather Promotions is looking forward to co-promoting another event with About Billions, as Adrien Broner looks to put on a big show in his hometown of Cincinnati,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “We’re anticipating a big crowd to support Adrien as he takes on the very tough Adrian Granados, in addition to the exciting undercard bouts that should make this a great night of boxing at Cintas Center and live on SHOWTIME.”
“Adrian Granados has demonstrated his skill and his ability to compete in this sport multiple times,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This is proven with his record of huge upsets. I am confident that February 18 will be no different. It will be another win and another big upset.”
At 27-years-old, Broner is one of the most accomplished and outspoken young stars in the sport today. After picking up world titles at 130, 135 and 147 pounds, Broner earned a belt in a fourth weight division in October 2015 when he defeated tough Russian Khabib Allakhverdiev via a stoppage in the 12th and final round in his last hometown appearance. Broner boasts a 9-1 record in world title fights on his way to picking up belts in four weight divisions. He will be fighting in his hometown for the 15th time in a pro career that has seen him defeat the likes of Paulie Malignaggi, Daniel Ponce De Leon, Ashley Theophane, John Molina Jr., Antonio DeMarco and Gavis Rees. Broner compiled a 300-19 amateur record under the guidance of his trainer Mike Stafford, who continues to train him throughout his pro career.
A tough fighter representing Chicago, Granados enters this fight on a five-bout winning streak, including his impressive stoppage over then unbeaten top contender Amir Imam in November 2015. Most recently, the 27-year-old dominated Ariel Vasquez over eight rounds in July. Granados has picked up wins over previously unbeaten fighters Mark Salser, Antonio Canas, Antton Slaughter and Imam. Granados’ defeats have all come in close contests and by either split or majority decisions. With a win over Broner, Granados can position himself for his first career world title shot.
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

CLASH OF TITANS! Lucian Bute vs. Eleider Alvarez Feb. 24 at Videotron Centre of Quebec City

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lucian Bute

MONTRÉAL (December 12, 2016) Group Yvon Michel (GYM) and Gestev are very happy to confirm the Clash of Titans mega-event as former International Boxing Federation (IBF) super middleweight world champion Lucian Bute (32-3-1, 25 KOs) will face World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver light heavyweight champion Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (20-0, 10 KOs), Friday, February 24, in a 12-round light heavyweight bout at Vidéotron Centre of Québec City.
 
This event is a presentation of Vidéotron, in association with Mise-O-Jeu.
 

Eleider Alvarez
 
Alvarez will put his WBC mandatory challenger position to champion Adonis“Superman” Stevenson (28-1, 23 KOs) in danger with an end of April date for this world title fight having already been reserved.
Bute has also set his goal to challenge Stevenson.  The veteran southpaw plans to clearly demonstrate that he deserves another wotld title shot, taking on the No. 1 conternder in undefeated Alvarez. Whatever the final outcome, the winner will be the most popular and legitimate challenger for Stevenson, dramatically increasing interest and notoriety of a totally Québécois world championship showdown.
 
All the ingredients are gathered to heighten popular interest in this fight, which will prove to be one of the most significant in the history of Quebec.
 
It is a local confrontation between two athletes who chose Quebec as their adopted home, fully integrating in the loal culture and learning French, as well as where they’ve fought the vast majority of their bouts. The result of this major clash will also have enormous repercussions at the international level in the light heavyweight division.
 
In one corner is former world champion Bute, who has delivered many inspirational performances during his 13 world championship fights (10-2-1, 8 KOs) to become a great star and admired celebrity in Quebec.
 
The other corner finds unbeaten Alvarez, a world-class fighter for the past three years who has delivered his most brilliant performances abroad, albeit mostly in the shadows of other great stars of Quebec.  The former Colombian Olympian wants to establish his true value after having prepared for Stevenson by fighting opponents for more than the past year.  He will earn his highest purse, which is similar to what he would have received to fight Stevenson first.
 
“It is the fans of Quebec in their entirety who will first be delighted with this mega fight and I am convinced that there will be no losers,” GYM president Yvon Michel said. “Although it is difficult to predict the outcome of this confrontation, most likely this fight will be so interesting and close that, eventually the two could get, one after the other, a world championship fight against the powerful southpaw champion of Montreal, Adonis Stevenson.”
 
“It was important for us to have this fight at the Vidéotron Centre,” added Vice-President Shows & Creative Content of Québecor, Michel Granger. “The last time (the Stevenson-Williams fight) was a success and it will be the same on February 24.”
 

“The last six months have been tough for me,” Bute explained. “After the Washington situation was settled, I was happy to finally sit down and discuss my next fight. I accepted as soon as I was offered the fight. We’re talking about an undefeated guy ranked number 1 by the WBC. It’s quite a challenge. I tip my hat to Alvarez for putting his position in peril.
 
“I was expecting the winner of the unification title fight between James Dégale and Badou Jack, but I had no guarantees and I could not afford to wait. My goal is to fight again for a world championship, whether it’s at 168 or 175 pounds, and I did not want to just take a meaningless preparatory fight.
 
 
“After evaluating all the options, we came to the conclusion that we had to take this fight,” Alvarez’ head trainer Marc Ramsey remarked. “Of course, there are risks … but it’s worth it. Eleider has long awaited an opportunity to box against someone recognized in Quebec, and people have not yet seen his full potential. He was all smiles when he received the offer.”.
 
“When Marc called me into his office,” Alvarez commented, “I was wondering what was going on. Generally, when he calls me into his office, it’s not good news. He asked me to sit down and if I wanted to face Bute. I smiled and said, yes. He is the most popular boxer in Quebec, so my motivation will be different. I’m doing this for myself and my family. I want to be world champion and now it’s going through Lucian. I’ve been looking a long time for a big fight like this and for the first time I will be the headliner.”
 
Tickets went on sale today (Monday, Dec. 12) on the Websites of Vidéotron Centre, Evenko and on Ticketmaster.ca
ABOUT GROUPE YVON MICHEL (GYM):


Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) was founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel and his associates. The organization’s mission is the development of high-level boxers through coaching support and especially by competitive management. To achieve its objectives, GYM actively recruits talent and organizes events and it is associated with the popular series, “Premier Boxing Champions (PBC),” and has developed major Videotron partnerships with Loto Quebec, TVA Sports, Centre Videotron, Casino de Montreal and Lac Leamy, Tonik GroupImage and Lapointe Dental Centre, in addition to collaborating closely with Rixa Promotions.

ABNER MARES OUTPOINTS JESUS CUELLAR TO WIN FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

UNBEATEN JERMALL CHARLO RETAINS IBF BELT WITH
FIFTH-ROUND KNOCKOUT OVER NO. 1 JULIAN WILLIAMS
ON SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
®

 

Sergey Lipinets, Erickson Lubin Triumph on SHOWTIME BOXING on FACEBOOK LIVE

 

 IBF Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua Retains Crown

With Third-Round KO over Eric Molina on SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL

 

Watch The Replay Monday, Dec. 12, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO EXTREME®

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME®

 

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 10, 2016) – Abner Mares (30-2-1, 15 KOs) scored an impressive, upset 12-round split decision over defending champion Jesus Cuellar (28-2, 21 KOs) to capture the WBA Featherweight World Championship and become a four-time boxing titlist Saturday in the main event of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader.

 

In the co-feature from Galen Center on the campus of USC in Los Angeles, Jermall Charlo (25-0, 19 KOs) retained his IBF Junior Middleweight World title with an emphatic fifth-round knockout over previously unbeaten, top-ranked Julian “J-Rock” Williams (22-1-1, 14 KOs). (VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: http://s.sho.com/2hqXDr8)

 

Earlier in the day on SHOWTIME, unbeaten IBF Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua (18-0, 18 KOs) knocked out Eric Molina (25-4, 19 KOs), of Weslaco, Texas, in the third round in Manchester, England.  (VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: http://s.sho.com/2hqHTo8)

 

Mares, of Huntington Beach, Calif., by way of Guadalajara, Mexico, was victorious by the scores of 117-110, 116-111 and 112-115. Judge Kermit Bayless was the lone descender to score the hard-fought match for the Argentine.  Mares scored the bout’s lone knockdown in the 11th round. Cuellar, of Buenos Aires, had an 11-fight winning streak end.  (VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: http://s.sho.com/2hbJayp)

 

Mares, making his first start in 16 months and first with renowned trainer Robert Garcia, executed a technically sound game plan and was the more accurate puncher than Cuellar, who was under the tutelage of Hall of Famer Freddie Roach for the first time in his career.

 

“I feel so good, it’s been a long time.  I’m champion, baby,’’ said Mares, 31, a former WBC featherweight and super bantamweight world champion and IBF bantamweight world champion, who became Garcia’s 10th world champion. “We had the perfect game plan.

 

“I never doubted myself.  I felt it in my heart.  When I fought Leo (Santa Cruz) I beat myself because I fought the wrong fight.  I fought smart tonight.  I thought it would be a unanimous decision, but at the end of the day I’m champion.’’

 

Cuellar is known as a devastating puncher, but he was unable to land his power shots or cut off the ring against Mares, who seemingly pocketed rounds with accuracy and a solid left hook. Mares floored Cuellar with a straight right in the opening minute of the 11th, sending Cuellar to the canvas for the third time of his career.  The onslaught continued, with a resurgent Mares teeing off on Cuellar until he raised his hands following the final bell.

“They said he was a power puncher, they said he was going to knock me out, but I proved that I have some power, too,’’ said Mares, who dropped a majority 12-round decision to Santa Cruz in his last fight on Aug. 29, 2015.  “I want Leo, I want (Carl) Frampton, I want anyone.  I’m a champion.  I’m not afraid of anyone.”

 

Cuellar stated his case for a rematch afterward.

 

“I thought the fight was pretty even until he threw me down, and that’s when he took control,” said Cuellar, who was making his third title defense.  “He definitely had the boxing skills going today.  I would have preferred a rough fight, but Mares had his skills today. I want a rematch. I gave him the opportunity and now I think it’s fair that he gives it to me.”

 

In the co-main event, Charlo dropped Williams three times, once in the second and twice in the fifth. Williams, who had not lost a round in 10 consecutive fights, went down for the first time in his career from a strong counter left-hand midway through the second round.

 

Williams, who established his counter right early, performed well for the next two rounds in the first title fight between undefeated 154-pound champions since Floyd Mayweather dismantled Canelo Alvarez in 2013.

 

But Charlo decked him again with a brutal right uppercut midway through the fifth round that sent Williams collapsing face-forward onto the canvas.  Williams got up, but he was clearly in trouble. Charlo floored him seconds layer with a left hook, forcing referee Wayne Hedgepath to instantly halt the contest at 2:06.

 

Charlo was ahead with scores of 38-37 on the three scorecards entering the fifth round in a highly skilled matchup between two fighters in their prime.

 

Afterward a fracas broke out in the ring between the fighters and their cornermen after Charlo wouldn’t acknowledge Williams’ congratulatory hand shake. Williams immediately stormed from the ring. The fans booed Charlo loudly throughout his post-fight interview with SHOWTIME reporter Jim Gray.

 

“I did what I was supposed to do, I’m very happy with my performance, I listened to my trainer,’’ said Charlo, the identical twin brother of WBC 154-pound titlist Jermell Charlo. “I trained hard for this fight, I stayed in the gym the whole time.

 

“No matter what, people have to respect my accomplishments. He just wasn’t on my level. I told everyone what I was going to do since the fight was announced. I knew I was going to win; he was badly hurt after the knockdown.

“I just want to tell Julian Williams, I’m sorry.  Leading up to this fight Julian talked, and I held it in.  I did what I had to do to become the champion of the world and I deserve my respect.   He disrespected me all the way up to the fight.  I made the fight happen; I gave the fans what they wanted to see.  I stayed at 154 pounds, although I do want to move up to 160, just to fight someone the world said I couldn’t beat.

 

“I said I don’t want your congratulations; I want your apology.  I don’t care what they say, I knocked him out.  No matter what they say about me I’m going to continue to work hard.  I did what my trainer told me to do, I stayed in there and bang the shot came home.  I’m never disrespected this dude, never, until I knocked him out.

 

“Yes, I want to unify.  I want to prove I’m the best junior middleweight in the world, none of them are on my level.”

Williams offered no excuses. “I just got caught,’ he said. “I was fine after the second round and kept going. He just caught me. He wasn’t too big. He just caught me.

“I didn’t care about any of that [post-fight drama]. I just wanted to win.”

 

Charlo-Williams was the fourth 154-pound title fight on SHOWTIME in 2016.

In one off the fights streamed earlier Saturday on FACEBOOK LIVE, Sergey Lipinets (11-0, 9 KOs) knocked out Lenny Zappavigna(35-3, 25 KOs) to become the mandatory challenger for the IBF Junior Welterweight World Title.

 

After flooring Zappavigna midway through the fourth, Lipinets finished off the Australian with an overhand right in the eighth in a closely contested and bloody affair.

 

“Yes, this was my toughest fight, it’s bloody and rugged but no problem for me,’’ Lipinets said. “This was an eliminator and now I want my next fight to be for the world championship. Julius Indogo has the IBF title and now I’m the mandatory.

“I’m very happy with my performance. We’ve worked on adjusting during fights and that worked very well for me tonight. I was hoping for the knockout but my trainer said to keep working and the stoppage will come.”

“I left it all in the ring,’’ Zappavigna said. “I fought my heart out and I came here to give it my best. Even though I’m disappointed with the loss, I am at peace with the result because I know I couldn’t have done anything else.

“I wish Sergey all the best in his world title fight.

“I know my fans are behind me and I’m bringing pride back to Australia. I know I was in control of the fight, but my Australian ‘white line fever’ kicked in and I tried to take his head off.”

In the opening bout on Facebook Live, talented undefeated middleweight Erickson Lubin (17-0, 12 KOs) knocked out previously once-beaten Juan Ubaldo Cabrera (23-2, 15 KOs) at 2:09 of the second round.

 

“He was a little awkward in the first round,’’ Erickson said. “I set him up with my jab and I knew I hurt him in the second. That’s when I knew it was time for him to go.

 

“I think that fight definitely proves that I’m in the discussion as one of the top up and comers in the sport, but I don’t feel any pressure. I’m back in the gym on Monday.

 

“I want to be undisputed champion. I want all of the belts. Give me the Charlos, Julian Williams, any of them.

 

“I’ll take whoever is in front of me next, but those names and put them in bold letters and you know I’ll be front and center for that Charlo-Williams fight.”

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader and SHOWTIME INTERNATIONAL telecast will re-air on Monday, Dec. 12, 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME. The fights were promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Corona.

 

 

 

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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.