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SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® REPORTER JIM GRAY CALLS INDUCTION INTO INTERNATIONAL BOXING HALL OF FAME AN ‘UNLIKELY AND TREMENDOUS HONOR’

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Veteran Reporter Joins Former Play-By-Play Announcer Steve Albert As Sixth From SHOWTIME Sports® Since 2012 To Be Presented With Boxing’s Highest Honor

 

NEW YORK (June 11, 2018) – SHOWTIME Sports® veteran reporter Jim Gray was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame on Sunday in Canastota, N.Y., joining former colleague and longtime SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING play-by-play announcer Steve Albert in receiving boxing’s most prestigious honor.

 

 

 

Gray and Albert became the fifth and sixth SHOWTIME Sports talent enshrined in the Hall of Fame since 2012. They join boxing analyst Al Bernstein (2012), ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. (2013), analyst and historian Steve Farhood (2017) and play-by-play announcer Barry Tompkins (2017).

 

 

 

In front of a large crowd that included close friends Mike Tyson, Don King, Deontay Wilder, Julius Irving, Jerry Richardson, Stedman Graham, Bob Costas and many others, the 59-year-old Southern California resident Gray reflected on 40-plus years of covering the sport of boxing. “My journey today has been an unlikely one,” Gray said during his induction speech. “The Boxing Hall of Fame immortalized all of these great fighters. So this magnificent honor comes with tremendous humility. How could this happen? I never took a punch.”

 

 

 

Gray, who started with SHOWTIME in 1994, was honored with a Special Individual Achievement Emmy Award – he currently has 12 Emmy’s in total – in 1997 for his interview of Mike Tyson following the heavyweight’s second loss to Evander Holyfield, the infamous “bite fight.” The National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association also named that interview the “Sports Broadcast Story of the Year.” Additionally, the American Sportscasters Association has voted Gray “Sportscaster of the Year” in 1998 and ‘99.

 

 

 

Gray chose Tyson to introduce him on Sunday during the induction ceremony. “It’s ironic,” said Gray. “The man who threatened to kill me in public is now inducting me into the Hall of Fame.”

 

 

 

“This award is way, way overdue,” an emotional Tyson said of his good friend. “I’m very proud of you. Well-deserved.”

 

 

 

With this past weekend’s induction ceremony, SHOWTIME Sports now boasts five current Hall of Famers featured on the network: Gray, Bernstein, Farhood, Tompkins and Lennon Jr.

 

 

 

“I am so pleased for Jim and Steve that they received this great honor,” said David Dinkins Jr., Senior Vice President and Executive Producer of SHOWTIME Sports. “Jim Gray’s interviews and reporting have been an integral part of our SHOWTIME telecast from the beginning. Because of his skills and instincts we have been able to cover the events in depth. There have been countless times that Jim’s dogged pursuit of a story has enabled us to paint the complete picture of the event.”

 

 

 

Gray has forged one of the most memorable sports broadcasting careers in recent history, which includes a deep boxing resume. Gray has worked more than 1,200 fights and interviewed over 1,500 fighters throughout his career, including 20 of his fellow Hall of Famers, such as Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, George Foreman and future Hall of Famer Floyd Mayweather Jr. and many others ringside.

 

 

 

Outside of the ring, Gray has covered nearly every sport and landed some of the industry’s most lucrative interviews, including sit-downs with Michael Phelps, Tiger Woods, Tom Brady and Michael Jordan.

 

 

 

Albert spent two decades calling fights for SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. Albert called more than 300 fights during his tenure with SHOWTIME, including Julio Cesar Chavez vs. Greg Haugen in front of 130,000 fans at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, Tyson-Holyfield I & II and the epic Corrales vs. Castillo series.

 

 

 

“Steve Albert’s incredible preparation and perfect timing were the reasons for his memorable fight calls,” Dinkins said. “Steve was the voice of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING through the high profile fights of the Tyson and Chavez eras. He will be forever linked to those shows which helped establish our network as a major broadcaster of boxing.”

 

 

 

Both Gray and Albert earned induction into the Observer category, which recognizes outstanding achievements of print and media journalists, publishers, writers, historians, photographers and artists.

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Mike Lee Breaks Rib in 1st round and despite not being able to breathe, defeats Jose Hernandez to claim NABO Light Heavyweight title

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Chicago, Illinois (June 9, 2018) -WBO number-3 ranked light heavyweight contender Mike Lee Broke his rib in the 1st round, but still claimed the NABO Light Heavyweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jose Hernandez at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois.

 

 

 

Lee pressed the action as he looked to land power shots early.  Hernandez fought gamely, but Lee was consistent with his right and left hands.

 

 

 

Lee showed incredible heart, as in round one, he suffered a broken rib and had trouble breathing throughout the whole ten round fight.

 

 

 

Hernandez was cut from Lee’s work, and the Notre Dame graduate cruised home with the victory by scores of 97-93 on all judges’ cards.

 

 

 

With the victory, Lee remains perfect with a record of 21-0, and will now look to face any of the world champions in either the light heavyweight or super middleweight divisions.

 

 

 

“I came out wanting the knockout,” said Lee.  “I give credit to Jose, he was tough.  I got a little excited early, and I was a little sloppy.  In the beginning, I was just throwing power shots, I wasn’t double jabbing and using my athletic ability.  Every fight is a learning lesson, and tonight I had to bite down and get the win.”

 

 

 

With the win, Lee will now look to challenge any of the champions and big names in and around his weight class.

 

 

 

“Let’s go.  I want a shot at the world title.  Whether it is at 168 pounds or 175 pounds, I am just waiting on a phone call.  We wanted to fight Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr., but I don’t know what happened with that.  I just want someone with the belt.”

boxing, CBS Boxing, CBS Sports Network

Hall of Fame broadcaster Barry Tompkins chimes in on world-ranked light heavyweight Mike Lee

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Lee takes on Jose Hernandez this Friday night at The Allstate Arena in Chicago and Live on

CBS Sports Network (9 PM ET)

Chicago, Illinois (June 4, 2018) -When WBO number-3 ranked light heavyweight contender Mike Lee (20-0, 11 KOs) takes on Jose Hernandez (19-3-1, 9 KOs) this Friday night at The Allstate Arena in Chicago.  The card will be broadcast live on CBS Spots Network (9 PM ET) with an all-star announce team of International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins and renowned Teddy Atlas.

 

 

 

Tompkins, who has been calling the biggest fights in the world for nearly 40 years, has seen his share of fighters, but not many with the versatility of a fighter who could be speaking to corporate America one day, and competing at a championship level in the ring…. the very next day.

 

 

 

“This fight will be a nice little test for Lee.  This is something that he has been striving for a long time, and I will be happy to see him get that chance that he has been wanting.  It is a real opportunity for him to show himself as one of the great fighters around,” said Tompkins.

 

 

 

Lee, who is one of a real select few that is able to give motivational speeches to Fortunate-500 companies, is a national spokesperson for major cooperation’s, and be a world class fighter all wrapped up in one.

 

 

 

Lee, who is holds a finance degree from Notre Dame, spends time and money for kids diagnosed with terminal cancer, so he is always fighting for a higher cause

 

 

 

“He is a very sellable guy whether he fights or not, and that’s the thing.  He has the opportunity to be a real spokesman, not only for himself but for the sport of boxing in general.  He is that in general He can really fill a room and he is excellent at dealing with all walks of life and all generations of people.  I haven’t been around too many that can do that.  “Sugar” Ray Leonard comes to mind who can do that. Leonard has a very galvanizing personality, and Mike has a lot of that in him.  He is very good spokesperson for the sport.”

 

 

 

With a win on Friday night, Lee could be just a fight or two away for fighting for a coveted world championship.

 

 

 

“I know that is something he has looked forward to.  I am in favor of him getting an opportunity.  His record says that he is worthy of an opportunity.”

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JIM GRAY AND STEVE ALBERT ELECTED TO INTERNATIONAL BOXING HALL OF FAME

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Veteran SHOWTIME Sports® Reporter Jim Gray and Former Play-By-Play Announcer Steve Albert Join 2018 Class Alongside Vitali Klitschko, Eric Morales and Ronald “Winky” Wright

 

 

SHOWTIME Sports veteran reporter Jim Gray and former, long-time play-by-play announcer Steve Albert were elected to the 2018 class of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, it was announced by the Hall on Tuesday. 

 

Gray and Albert earned induction into the Observer category, which recognizes outstanding achievements of print and electronic media journalists, sportscasters, publishers, writers, historians, photographers and artists. Gray and Albert will join SHOWTIME Sports boxing analyst Al Bernstein (2012), ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. (2013), analyst and historian Steve Farhood (2017) and announcer Barry Tompkins (2017) in the International Boxing Hall of Fame.  

 

Former heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko, four-division world champion Eric Morales and former undisputed super welterweight world champion Ronald “Winky” Wright headline the 2018 induction class. The newly elected class will be inducted during Hall of Fame Weekend June 7-10, 2018, in Canastota, N.Y.

 

“All of us at SHOWTIME Sports who have worked with Jim and Steve over the years are thrilled that they are receiving this well-deserved honor,” said David Dinkins Jr., Executive Producer, SHOWTIME Sports.  “Both were instrumental in building the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® franchise.  Jim’s interviews have become classic post-fight drama while Steve’s fight calls are integral to some of the most significant moments in boxing history.”

 

Gray has been a reporter for SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING since 1994, and has earned 11 Emmy Awards throughout his career, including one for his interview of Mike Tyson following the heavyweight’s infamous “bite fight” loss to Evander Holyfield. The National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association also named that interview the “Sports Broadcast Story of the Year.” Additionally, the American Sportscasters Association voted Gray “Sportscaster of the Year” in 1998 and 1999.

 

Throughout his four-decade career as a reporter, Gray has covered numerous Super Bowls, World Series, Olympics, NBA Finals and NCAA Final Fours, and has interviewed many of the most lauded sports figures of this era including Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Kobe Bryant, Tom Brady, Pete Rose, Michael Jordan and many others. 

 

One of the most recognizable voices in sports, Albert joined SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING shortly after its inception in 1986. In a tenure that spanned over two decades, the world-famous broadcaster called over 300 title fights, including Julio Cesar Chavez vs. Greg Haugen in front of 130,000 fans at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, and Tyson-Holyfield I & II. In 2007, Albert received The Sam Taub Award for excellence in broadcast journalism by the Boxing Writers Association of America.

 

In addition to boxing, Albert spent 19 seasons covering the NBA, spending 13 of those years with the Nets, five with the Golden State Warriors and one with the New Orleans Hornets. Albert has also done play-by-play for the New York Mets, Jets, Islanders and Rangers, as well as the New Jersey Devils.  

 

The recognition by the International Boxing Hall of Fame is the result of a career’s worth of hard work and accomplishments for Gray and Albert.

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MIKEY GARCIA OUTPOINTS ADRIEN BRONER BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MAIN EVENT SATURDAY  ON SHOWTIME®  FROM  BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

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Jermall Charlo KO’s Jorge Sebastian Heiland in Four Rounds In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Co-Feature
Catch The Replay Monday At 10:30 p.m. ET/PT On 
SHOWTIME EXTREME® 
Click HERE for Photos; Credit Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos: Credit Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
BROOKLYN (July 30, 2017) – Three-division world champion Mikey Garcia kept his undefeated record intact with a dominant 12-round performance against four-division world champion Adrien Broner in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, Saturday on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.
In what could be considered one of the best performances of his career, Garcia (37-0, 30 KO’s) won a unanimous decision by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice.
“We trained for 10 weeks, we had a great training camp and great sparring, we knew it was going to be a tough fight,” Garcia said.
Garcia took the lead early on, showcasing fundamentally sound technique and backing Broner into the ropes midway through the second frame. A flurry of body shots put Broner in trouble in the second round. While Broner was able to stay on his feet, Garcia emerged with another round in his favor.
“I think I controlled the fight in the early rounds and I kept the activity up,” Garcia said. “Broner is a great fighter and he has great skills but I was the superior fighter tonight.”
Garcia showed a combination of jabs, power punches and body shots all night long. He cornered Broner on the ropes with a huge left hook halfway through the third frame, and backed him in to the ropes again with 39 seconds remaining in the round.  While Broner showed some movement in the fourth round and hit Garcia with a succession of 1-2 combinations, Garcia’s bodywork kept Broner at bay.
“It was part of the strategy to be a little busier in this fight than in the fights I have previously had,” Garcia said.
Broner (33-3, 24 KOs) looked to get back in the fight as he started the eighth round with a succession of sharp combinations, however his lack of consistency couldn’t withstand Garcia’s phenomenal body shots and overall punch output. Through eight rounds, Garcia had thrown a total of 500 punches, while Broner had just thrown 291.
“It was a good fight at the end of the day, I come to fight I come to win and I put my heart on the line,” Broner said. “But it was Tom & Jerry; I had to catch the mouse.”
Although Garcia had amassed an early lead from the first three-quarters of the fight, Broner continued to walk through heavy fire from Garcia in an attempt to connect with a big punch and change the tide of the fight. While he was able to ignite the crowd and land several big punches over the final three rounds, none of it proved to be enough to slow down Garcia.
“It was my timing, I’ve always said I have very good timing,” said Garcia. “It is underestimated when you are outside the ring but once you get inside the ring with me, I’m a step ahead.”
Undefeated Jermall Charlo (26-0, 20 KOs) made his debut at 160-pounds with a stoppage of Argentine contender Jorge Sebastian Heiland (29-5-2, 16 KOs) in the co-featured event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. The stoppage came at 2:13 of the fourth round after Charlo delivered a devastating left hook followed by a big right to end the fight.
Charlo, of Houston, Texas, dominated the pace from the beginning. He landed the sharper and more accurate punches throughout the fight, especially in the first round where he landed 50 percent of his power shots to Heiland’s 13 percent. Charlo’s straight right was his power weapon throughout the contest.
“I felt good at this weight. I was in good shape all camp,” said Charlo. “I just had to keep my composure in the ring. That’s always something I have to work on and I was able to do it.
“After I dropped him the first time they said he fell on top of his ankle. That’s just part of the boxing game. I had to just stay consistent and get the work done.”
Heiland, of Buenos Aires, Argentina, had issues with his left leg after injuring his knee in the first round. His discomfort was clear in his awkward footwork and lack of power behind his punches. Referee Benjy Esteves had the doctor examine him twice throughout the fight, once before the third round and then again before the fourth.
“I turned my left knee in the first round, but I did not want to give up,” said Heiland. “I tried to give it my all, but it was not my night. I had bad luck but I am going to work harder than ever to get back and get another opportunity to achieve my dream and win a world title.”
Charlo stayed focused on his game plan despite seeing his opponent injured. “Sometimes the injury can be a decoy, you never want to just jump in and think it’s part of his game plan,” Charlo said. “My coach told me to stay behind my jab like I did; continue to work and it’s going to come.”
With this win, Charlo becomes a mandatory challenger for the WBC Middleweight World Championship.
“I’m ready for anyone. I’m ready for whoever wants to fight me,” Charlo added. “Bring on the biggest names at 160. I’m the real Tommy Hearns. I feel it’s my turn and I’m going to go get it.”
Headlining the “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims,” heavyweight Jarrell Miller (19-0-1, 17 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y., stopped former world title challenger Gerald Washington (18-2-1, 12 KOs) after eight-rounds.
Miller used his significant size advantage and effective power-punching to break down the former collegiate football player. Washington had some success early with his jab and body attack, but was not able to stay out of punching range of Miller
Washington surged in the sixth round with a series of power shots that staggered Miller, however the Brooklynite countered and further broke down Washington, who landed just 20% of his jabs overall.
Miller, who landed almost half of his power punches, continued the onslaught in the seventh and eight rounds, and while Washington was able to stay on his feet, he took enough punishment that his corner called the fight after the eighth round.
“I definitely felt the ring rust,” said Miller, who was making his third appearance on SHOWTIME. “Gerald was very tough. It was a very good fight that had me thinking. My power was there, but I couldn’t put it together the way I wanted to today.
“I took the hard way back coming in off of a layoff. Gerald definitely pushed me and motivated me. I had to rely on my brain and my power.
“I knew there would be a give and take in this fight. It’s one thing to fight when you have stamina, it’s another to fight when you’re tired. I was trying to outthink him.”
In the opening bout of “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims” on Facebook Live, Irish sensation Katie Taylor (6-0, 4 KOs) stopped Jasmine Clarkson (4-9) after three rounds of action in the latter fighter’s U.S. debut.
The Olympic Gold medalist was dominant from the outset, stalking her opponent around the ring and consistently trapping her in the corner. Taylor was effective with both hands and did most of her work to the head of Clarkson. After three rounds of damage, Clarkson’s corner stopped the bout and gave Taylor her first stateside win as a pro.
“It was a fantastic experience being my first time competing here in the U.S,” said Taylor. “There were definitely some nerves before the fight. It was great to go in there and get a stoppage.
“I hope that I made some fans tonight. I loved hearing the Irish fans in the crowd. I hope that there will be even more next time I fight here. The more fights I have here in the U.S. the better.
“I thought I performed pretty well. I definitely got caught with a few silly shots. I could have been cleaner but overall it was a good performance. I felt good and strong. I’ll be ready to get back in there as soon as possible.”
Additional action saw former world champion Rau’shee Warren (15-2, 4 KOs) earn a unanimous decision victory over former champion McJoe Arroyo (17-2, 8 KOs) and became the mandatory challenger for the IBF Junior Bantamweight World Title.
Warren attacked the body throughout the bout and landed the cleaner, more effective punches over the 12-round contest. The judges concurred and gave him the decision by scores of 118-10 and 117-111 twice.
“I would give myself a B+ for that performance,” said Warren. “I wanted to make sure to use my jab and I felt like it really helped me win the fight.
“I feel really good at this weight. Now it’s time for me to go get a strap. I haven’t been at this weight since the Olympics. I want to get these titles and then go down to 112 pounds for another title. First I want to take care of Jerwin Ancajas.”
Saturday’s fights will replay on Sunday, July 30 at 8:35 a.m. ET on SHOWTIME and on Monday, July 31 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME on DEMAND® and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®.
#          #          #
ABOUT BRONER vs. GARCIA
Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia is a 12-round super lightweight showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME. Broner vs. Garcia is presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®. PBC was sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina and this event was promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MikeyGarcia, @AdrienBroner, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, , www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionsand www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment
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Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Premier Boxing Champions Event Saturday, July 29 from

 Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Live on SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

 

BROOKLYN (July 27, 2017) – Four-division world champion Adrien Broner and three-division world champion Mikey Garcia went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference two days before they headline a Premier Boxing Champions event Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten former world champion Jermall Charlomeeting top contender Jorge Sebastian Heiland in a middleweight world title eliminator.

 

Undercard action on “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims” will stream live on Facebook and YouTube and will feature heavyweight contenders Gerald Washington and Jarrell Miller in a 10-round match, plus Irish sensation Katie Taylorin her U.S. debut.

 

Tickets to the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees), are on sale now, and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Dream Hotel Downtown:

 

ADRIEN BRONER

 

“Just know that I’ll be ready on Saturday night. I’m not worried about how much he’ll weigh when we step into the ring. I’m ready for anything.

 

“Camp was tough, but it was great. I did a lot of things differently and made sure that I was doing everything right. I made sure not to cut any corners this camp.

 

“This is going to be a great fight for boxing. I’ve done my due diligence. I’m going to take care of business. I just know myself and know what I’m capable of.

 

“Every fight is a must-win in this sport. There’s no fight you go into with a loss on your mind. I’m going to put on a show on Saturday.

 

“I laugh when people write me off. I’m used to being the underdog coming from where I come from. People don’t know what I’ve been through to get to this point. I’m blessed to be where I’m at. Saturday night there will be a lot more room on the bandwagon.

 

“We’ll see who’s on the pound-for-pound list after Saturday night. We could have fought years ago but the time is now and I’m ready.

 

“I’m glad that the Garcia team took this fight as quickly as we did. I’ve been taking everything seriously in Colorado. I know Mikey will be ready too. Robert Garcia definitely has some confidence from beating me with Marcos Maidana. But Mikey is not Maidana.

 

“I just don’t feel like Mikey will be able to do anything to stop me from getting the victory. I’m sure he’s confident too. After I make it look easy, I want everyone to write about it and say something good.

 

“I can make anybody quit in the ring. Mikey is no different. If I execute and stay focused, don’t be surprised. I’m ready for this fight.

 

“Saturday is going to be a special day for me. My birthday is tomorrow. I’m almost 30. I want to dedicate this victory to my twin brother Andre. Seeing his smile will make it even more special for me.”

 

MIKEY GARCIA

 

“I’m prepared to go 12 hard rounds with Adrien Broner. This is a high profile fight. Probably more than my other fights. It’s created a lot of buzz amongst fans and media. Everyone is anticipating a great fight. This is a great matchup that can take me to the next level.

 

“I don’t think that he’s going to be desperate but he knows that I’m not an easy opponent. That’s why he’s taken camp so seriously. I expect him to be at his best and be ready. He knows that if he beats me he can launch his career back to where it was.

 

“He’s a four-division world champion so clearly he has the skills. I need someone who is hungry and motivated to bring out the best in me. My main focus is getting the win by any means necessary.

 

“I’m going to lo look to box effectively and show that I’m the better fighter. We’re both smart fighters but neither of us will run from the other. When you have styles like ourselves, with two guys who like to exchange punches, you’re in for a great battle.

 

“I think Adrien will be fine with the weight. He’s a pro and he knows that he really has to make weight. He’s learned from his mistakes. Sometimes he jokes around but that’s just part of his character. He takes things a lot more seriously because he’s facing me.

 

“If I can get this win, I just want to keep moving forward and fulfilling my dreams. I want to be in huge fights consistently. This is a crossroads fight for both of us to get to that level.

 

“I’m very excited to be here. Brooklyn was very kind to me when I fought here last year. I expect the fans to be here and show up like they always do on Saturday. There are incredible boxing fans in New York.

 

“I’m here to prove that I’m back and stronger than ever. This is another opportunity to show the kind of fighter that I am. I won’t let Adrien Broner stand in my way. This is my chance to show the best version of myself.”

 

JERMALL CHARLO

 

“I feel great and ready to make my debut at 160 pounds. Camp has gone smoothly. I’m ready to dominate this division like I did 154 pounds. My plan is to care of Heiland and then everything else will fall into line from there.

 

“This is a bigger, better and stronger version of Jermall Charlo. Everything has come together during camp. Ronnie Shields runs a great camp and I believe he’s continuing to bring the best out of me.

 

“I’m completely focused on this matchup. I know that I can’t get any of the big fights that I crave without taking care of Heiland. I’m going to break him down and if the knockout comes, I’ll make sure to take advantage.

 

“My hat is off to Adrien Broner and Mikey Garcia for bringing out all the fans and media for this great show. It’s a real thrill to be a part of this event.”

 

JORGE SEBASTIAN HEILAND

 

“I’m thankful to everyone who has welcomed me to New York. I’m happy to have this big opportunity and I’m 100 percent prepared for whatever Jermall Charlo brings. Jermall is a great fighter and I know that he is going to bring everything he has.

 

“I’ve had an amazing camp and I’ve never felt more prepared for an opportunity than this. I was very patient and I will take full advantage. My plan is to leave everything in the ring on Saturday.

 

“My team has been with me for a long time as I waited for this opportunity. Be ready because it’s going to be a battle and a great matchup on Saturday. You won’t want to miss it.”

 

GERALD WASHINGTON

 

“I came here to go to work. I’m going to shut that big mouth of his up. I hope someone is holding him accountable for all the words he’s been saying. You’re in there with a real one on Saturday night. I’m going to welcome you to this game for real.

 

“I’m sure he’ll try to bring some extra pressure. I’m going to introduce him to a new class of boxing. I’ve taken a lot from my experiences in training camp with Wladimir Klitschko and in the ring with Deontay Wilder. You’ll see the difference on Saturday.

 

“I’m still growing in this sport. I’ve been learning on the job this whole time and each experience just means so much to me. I wanted to take on a tough undefeated fighter because I knew that it would make it a great fight.

 

“This is most definitely ending inside of the distance. I’m coming after him. I’m going to wear him out. Then it’s time to take him out.”

 

JARRELL MILLER

 

“If you don’t know who “Big Baby” is, you soon will. I’ve never seen anyone get knocked out and get praised for it, but that’s what people are doing for Washington. I’ve never been hurt in my life in the ring and I’ll prove it on Saturday.

 

“This guy said he’s going to introduce me to big-time boxing. I’ve been in front of huge crowds and I’ve come through with knockout wins. I’ll be more than ready on Saturday night.

 

“I’ve got big plans in this sport and this is only the start. Brooklyn fans loved their hometown heavyweights Mike Tyson and Riddick Bowe. I’m going to be next in that line and this city will love me.”

 

KATIE TAYLOR

 

“It’s incredible to be here in New York and to make my US debut on this incredible card. It’s truly a privilege.

 

“Training has gone so well and I’m so happy that SHOWTIME will stream the fight. It’s incredible for my fans overseas and all fans of women’s boxing.

 

“I hope to make a strong statement this weekend and I hope everyone enjoys the fight on Saturday night.”

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

 

“This is definitely a must-see event on Saturday night. Two great fighters, fighting at the right time, both in the prime of their careers. It’s going to be a great show.

 

“One of the main reasons why boxing is going to the next level is because the people at the top have a vision of seeing great fights. We have another great example of that this Saturday night at Barclays Center

 

“Anytime you have a great event, it’s going to start with the undercard. We have a lot of young fighters looking to show off their skills. We’re thrilled to have our very own Richardson Hitchins and Kenny Robles competing in exciting undercard action.”

 

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

 

“A month from now there will be a huge event in Las Vegas, but two days from now there is the best fight card of the summer, the best fight of the summer, and a great show from top to bottom at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

 

“This is a great summer of boxing for SHOWTIME and it’s great to be in this room and see all the great attention that this fight card is getting. This is one of the best representations that we can have of our sport. This is one of the most stacked cards I’ve ever been involved with.

 

“There are a lot of good reasons to get a ticket and come to Barclays Center on Saturday night. There will be a strong Irish presence on the card Saturday with both Katie Taylor and Noel Murphy entering the ring.”

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

 

“Saturday is a testament to SHOWTIME’s commitment to boxing and boxing fans. We’ve worked hard to deliver the most important bouts from around the world. We have three separate telecasts, five fights, across two continents.

 

“We will also be streaming Katie Taylor’s U.S. debut. People know Katie from reputation alone, and we thought it was important to have her fight seen. The heavyweight fight between Gerald Washington and Jarrell Miller is another one that deserves to be seen and I think it could be the fight that steals the show.

 

“The main event has two of the brightest young stars in boxing. They both feel like they’ve been on this stage for a while. You know their resumes and you have to give them all of the credit in the world for taking this fight. Neither had to take this fight, but it will be one of the most exciting matchups of the summer.

 

“We have had 19 live presentations and 15 world title fights so far and we’re proud of what we’ve done accomplished so far. Boxing has had a great year and much of that has been carried by SHOWTIME boxing. That will continue this Saturday.”

 

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment

 

“This card is our fourth major card this year. It’s been an incredible year for BROOKLYN BOXING. We’ve made a commitment to bring the best boxing to the borough. With all of our partners help, we have been able to accomplish that.

 

“We welcome both of these fighters back to Brooklyn. They’ve both built fan bases and we’re excited to see both of them back in the building and in the ring on Saturday.

 

“The whole night of boxing is going to be incredible. I welcome Jermall Charlo to Brooklyn, your brother had a great night in April and I’m sure you will follow in his footsteps.”

 

 

#          #          #

 

ABOUT BRONER vs. GARCIA

Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia is a 12-round super lightweight showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME. Broner vs. Garcia is presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina and this event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MikeyGarcia, @AdrienBroner, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, ,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment

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VIDEO: ADRIEN BRONER FLUSHING OUT THE NEGATIVE AS HE PREPARES TO FACE MIKEY GARCIA THIS SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®

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“I feel like my back is against the wall.  Everybody is counting me out once again.” – Adrien Broner

 

SHOWTIME Sports® Video Feature: http://s.sho.com/2tKCUR0

 

Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Four-division world champion Adrien Broner has taken a unique approach as he prepares to face undefeated three-division titlist Mikey Garcia this Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).  One of only 16 four-division champions in boxing history, the outspoken Broner is practicing yoga in his Colorado Springs-based camp as he attempts to minimize the distractions and focus on perhaps the biggest fight of his career. 

 

“I feel like my back is against the wall,” Broner says in this SHOWTIME Sports video feature.  “Everybody is counting me out once again.

 

“Don’t get me wrong, he can fight, he can box.  But, at the end of the day, I just don’t see him beating me.” 

 

Broner faces Garcia in a matchup of two of boxing’s biggest stars in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®.  Televised coverage begins live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT as unbeaten former world champion Jermall Charlo returns to face Jorge Sebastian Heiland in a middleweight world title eliminator.  The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  

 

# # #

 

ABOUT BRONER vs. GARCIA

Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia is a 12-round super lightweight showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME. Broner vs. Garcia is presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina and this event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MikeyGarcia, @AdrienBroner, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, ,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionsand www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment

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SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO DELIVER THREE SEPARATE LIVE BOXING PRESENTATIONS ON SATURDAY, JULY 29  

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Live Coverage of Broner vs. Garcia Undercard Plus Carl Frampton Homecoming Bout Available On Digital Platforms Preceding SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®

 

NEW YORK (July 25, 2017) – SHOWTIME Sports will offer three separate boxing presentations on Saturday, July 29, delivering two digital live streams preceding the evening’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING televised doubleheader.  The digital-only offerings will be available on Facebook Live and YouTube prior to the live SHOWTIME® telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, as the network continues its unrivaled commitment to boxing.

 

The full day of high-stakes boxing will begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT with streaming coverage from Belfast, Ireland as 2016 Fighter of the Year Carl Frampton makes his long-awaited homecoming.  The former two-division titlist Frampton (23-1, 14 KOs) will face once-beaten Andres Gutierrez (35-1-1, 25 KOs) in a 12-round featherweight bout, his first since splitting a par of slugfests with three-division world titlist Leo Santa Cruz.  Coverage of Frampton vs. Gutierrez will be provided by Channel 5, a television station in Northern Ireland.

 

SHOWTIME Sports will then deliver live coverage from Barclays Center in Brooklyn beginning at 7:15 p.m. ET/4:15 p.m. PT with “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims”.   The two-fight live stream will feature former world title challenger Gerald Washington (18-1-1, 12 KOs) against Brooklyn native Jarrell Miller (18-0-1, 16 KOs), plus the U.S. debut of female boxing star and Irish Olympic Gold Medalist Katie Taylor (5-0, 3 KOs).  Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins will call the live streaming fights from Brooklyn alongside former world champion Daniel Jacobs.

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims and Frampton vs. Gutierrez will be available to U.S. audiences only.

 

The July 29 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast is headlined by a blockbuster matchup between two of boxing’s biggest stars as three-division world champion Mikey Garcia moves up to 140 pounds to face four-division champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner.  Televised coverage begins live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT as unbeaten former world champion Jermall Charlo returns to face Jorge Sebastian Heiland in a middleweight world title eliminator.  The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims is an extension of SHOWTIME BOXING on SHOWTIME EXTREME, which is the first premium television series to offer live undercard coverage.  Both offerings provide bonus bouts to viewers at home, delivering an experience that was previously available only to fans in arena.  Via SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims, viewers are afforded the unique opportunity to interact with the boxing community during the event in real time.

 

SHOWTIME Sports also will live stream the Broner vs. Garcia final press conference on Thursday and the official weigh-in on Friday across digital platforms, including Facebook Live and YouTube.

 

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REGIS PROGRAIS SCORES CONVINCING KNOCKOUT OF JOEL DIAZ JR. IN MATCHUP OF PREVIOUSLY UNBEATEN 140-POUNDERS ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®

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Steve Rolls Edges Demond Nicholson & Jon Fernandez KOs Juan Reyes At Turning Stone Resort Casino In Verona, N.Y.

 

An Encore Presentation Of Friday’s Tripleheader Will Air Monday At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

 

VERONA, N.Y. (June 10, 2017) – Undefeated super lightweight Regis Prograis made an emphatic statement Friday onShoBox: The New Generation, knocking down previously undefeated Joel Diaz Jr. four times in the second round as he stamped his arrival as a legitimate contender in the 140-pound division. 

 

The southpaw Prograis (20-0, 17 KOs), who was making his fourth start on the prospect developmental series, called out the top names at 140 after the second round demolition (TKO 2:55) at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

 

The special Hall of Fame edition of ShoBox: The New Generation featured four members of the International Boxing Hall of Fame: ShoBox mainstays Barry Tompkins and Steve Farhood and special guests Al Bernstein and Jimmy Lennon Jr.  Tompkins and Farhood will be inducted just down the road in Canastota on Sunday in a 2017 class headlined by boxing greats Evander Holyfield, Marco Antonio Barrera and Johnny Tapia.

 

The super lightweights, Prograis and Diaz, entered the main event with a combined record of 42-0, but it was clear they were in a different class after the first round.  Prograis knocked down Diaz in the opening 30 seconds of the second in an exchange that appeared to be the result of a clash of feet.  Regardless, Prograis smelled blood and pounced on Diaz, flooring him again with a straight left midway through the round. 

 

The Houston resident, who relocated from New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, knocked down Diaz again just 15 seconds later with a straight left.  The fourth and final knockdown, courtesy of a left hook, sent Diaz (23-1, 19 KOs) tumbling back and was enough for referee Mark Nelson to halt the bout with just seconds left on the clock.

 

It was a convincing statement for Prograis, who landed 62 percent of his power shots in the toughest test of his career. 

 

“Tonight I proved I graduated from ShoBox,” Prograis said.  “I’m ready for the bigger stage. I’m ready for the big show.  I want to fight best the best in the division.  I want (Terrance) Crawford, (Victor) Postol, (Adrien) Broner.  I want them all.  None of these guys have fought anybody like me.  The boogeyman is coming.  They better get ready.

 

“He was tough, he was strong and hit hard, but I went through it.  That’s another opponent I ran through.  I run through everybody.  I’m ready for my shot.  I’m coming for everybody at 140.” 

 

Diaz, who became the 164th fighter to suffer his first defeat on the series, was clearly disappointed with his game plan.

 

“I went out there too hyper, trying to kill him,” Diaz said.  “I went out too aggressive.  I should have toned it down a bit.  I had 10 rounds but I just went out there trying to take him out.  I should’ve calmed down.

 

“I should have used my jab a bit more to knock him down but I came out swinging.”

 

Super middleweight prospect Steve Rolls managed to maintain his undefeated record with a closely contested eight-round slip decision victory over Demond Nicholson scored 77-75 Nicholson, 77-74 Rolls, 77-74 Rolls.  

 

Rolls got off to a quick start, flooring Nicholson with a left hook in the closing seconds of the first to pocket a 10-8 round.  He came out attacking to sweep the second, but the fight appeared to change course in the third when Nicholson hurt Rolls in the final minute with his first meaningful punch of the fight.  

 

Nicholson (17-2-1, 16 KOs) carried the momentum to sweep the fourth, but the remaining four rounds featured back-and-forth action and were difficult to score.  Rolls (16-0, 9 KOs) was the slightly busier fighter, connecting on 412 total punches compared to 390 over eight rounds, but Nicholson edged his opponent 134-117 in total connects.

 

ShoBox announcers Tompkins, Farhood and Raul Marquez all had Nicholson winning the final six rounds and edging Rolls 77-74 on their unofficial scorecards.

 

“What made the difference for me tonight was my jab, my patience, my overall boxing ability,” Rolls said.  “I came in to this fight having no doubts.  Nicholson was talking beforehand about my last fight, he was talking about my footwork, and I knew he was going to be in for a big surprise. I adapt for each fight.

 

“I knew I had him from the first round.  My corner calmed me down and told me to take my time.”

 

Nicholson, who has mostly competed at 160 pounds, disagreed with the judges’ decision.

 

“I’m not going to make any excuses.  He won the fight,” Nicholson said.  “That’s what the judges saw, but I don’t agree.  He hurt me in the first round.  He hit me viciously in the head.  I was dizzy but I recovered and I went on.  I think I did a very good job but clearly not enough.

 

“I can’t fight at 160 – I’m a 168-pounder.  Fighting at that weight drained me.  I wasn’t at my best.”

 

In the opening bout of the telecast, undefeated lightweight prospect Jon Fernandez scored a brutal knockout of Juan Reyes at2:36 of the second round. 

 

Fernandez stepped on the gas from the opening bell, utilizing superior activity and accuracy to pick apart the game yet outmatched Reyes.  The pair combined to throw 240 punches in the opening stanza but Fernandez landed his right at will and was clearly the more effective fighter. 

 

The Sergio Martinez protégé had a bloodied Reyes hurt in the opening minute of the second and closed the show in the final minute with a sharp right to the ear that sent Reyes (14-4-3, 2 KOs) falling back toward the canvas.  The perfectly placed punch had Reyes seemingly out before he hit the floor.

 

The Spaniard Fernandez (13-0, 11 KOs) landed a staggering 55 percent of his power shots and 40 percent of his total punches.

 

“The one-two, one-two was the key to opening the door,” Fernandez said.  “The straight right hand is one of my best punches and I caught Reyes in the perfect spot.  I hope he is OK.  I feel that I am ready for the next level.  I’ll fight wherever there is an opportunity, but I believe the big fights are here in the U.S.”

 

Reyes was responsive but taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure.

 

Friday’s tripleheader will replay on Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®.

 

The event was co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment (DBE) and AASHA Record Breakers.

 

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins called the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, @loudibella and @DiBellaEnt or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, andwww.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.

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REGIS PROGRAIS vs. JOEL DIAZ JR. FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION HALL OF FAME WEEKEND TRIPLEHEADER LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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Friday, June 9 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

 

Click HERE For Weigh-In Photos; Credit Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

Click HERE For Hall of Fame Opening Bell Photos; Credit Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

 

VERONA, N.Y. (June 8, 2017) – Regis “Rougarou” Prograis and Joel Diaz Jr. made weight on Thursday just hours after the “Opening Bell” to kick off festivities for the 2017 International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend.

 

The undefeated Prograis (19-0, 16 KOs) and fellow unbeaten Diaz (23-0, 19 KOs) will square off in the 10-round super lightweight main event of a Hall of Fame edition of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, June 9, live on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

 

The ShoBox tripleheader will celebrate longtime analysts Barry Tompkins and Steve Farhood just two days before their induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.  Farhood and Tompkins were joined at the Opening Bell on Thursday by a handful of their fellow 2017 inductees: boxing legend Marco Antonio Barrera, Australian trainer Johnny Lewis, and the wife of the late Johnny Tapia, Teresa Tapia.

 

In the ShoBox co-feature, undefeated super middleweight Steve Rolls (15-0, 9 KOs) will take on the hard-hitting Demond Nicholson (17-1-1, 16 KOs) in an eight-round bout.  In the opening bout of the telecast, Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez’s protégé, Jon Fernandez, (12-0, 10 KOs) faces Juan Reyes (14-3-3, 2 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight matchup.

 

Tickets for the event, co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment (DBE) and AASHA Record Breakers, are priced at $65 for ringside, $50, $40 and $30 (may be subject to additional fees) and are available at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877-833-SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster.com. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m., with the first bout scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

 

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

 

10-Round Super Lightweight Main Event:

Regis Prograis – 139 ½ pounds

Joel Diaz Jr. – 137 ¼ pounds

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Don Ackerman, Tom Schreck, John McKaie

 

Eight-Round Super Middleweight Co-Feature:

Steve Rolls – 161 pounds

Demond Nicholson – 162 ½ pounds

Referee: Benjy Esteves; Judges: Glenn Feldman, Don Trella, Wynn Kintz

 

Eight-Round Lightweight Telecast Opener:

Jon Fernandez – 132 ½ pounds

Juan Ramon Reyes – 131 ½ pounds

Referee: Charlie Fitch; Judges: Don Ackerman, Glenn Feldman, John McKaie

 

FINAL QUOTES:

 

Regis Prograis

“The person that wins this fight goes up, hopefully, to a title fight.  I’m 19-0, he’s 23-0.  I feel like this is a real big fight.

 

“I take all my opponents seriously, but I’m taking this one even more seriously than others in the past.  He’s 23-0, and there’s a reason he’s undefeated.  He’s good, and he has the best record I’ve ever faced.

 

“I’m at a stage in my career where every fight can lead to the next big thing and I think this fight may be it for me.  I’m patient, but I’m ready for more.  I want a shot at a title.

 

“He’s a brawler fighter, but I have the better punching power, and the speed.

 

“If I feel like he [Diaz] can’t hurt me from the first round, I’ll probably just walk him down the whole night and punish him.

 

“Seeing what [Errol] Spence did motivates me, especially the way he did it in his opponent’s hometown.  It got me thinking: that can be me one day.  We went at it in the amateurs, so I know how good he is, but I’m good too.  Just seeing him go over there and take the title away, I know my time is coming next.

 

“I grew up watching Macho Camacho, Roberto Duran, Mike Tyson, but I watched more Duran than anything.  I really liked his style.  I learned a lot watching the boxing greats on tape.

 

“Terence Crawford, Adrien Broner, Victor Postol.  Those are the type of guys I want to fight.

 

“I started boxing in New Orleans, and if it wasn’t for Katrina, I probably wouldn’t be where I am right now.  When I moved to Houston, I got into the boxing scene and started taking it seriously.  It was a horrible situation [in New Orleans], but it changed my life.

 

“My family went back [to New Orleans], but not me.  I stayed in Houston to box.  I feel it’s not time for me to go back home just yet.  I’ll come back when I become a superstar, like I’m supposed to be.”

 

Joel Diaz Jr.

“This is my chance, this is my opportunity.  I’ve been told, ‘you only get one chance’, and this is it for me.  I know Regis is good, but we’re going to put it on him.  I’m going to be on him like flies on shit.  This is one of the opportunities I can’t let pass.

 

“We’re going to break him down mentally, find our way in, and drop the bomb.

 

“He throws combos, and that’s what I have to take away from him.  I have to be on him and be the first to attack.  My power will take care of his speed.

 

“This means a lot to me, getting to show the world who the ‘secret’ is.  People haven’t really seen what I have, but there will be no more secrets after tomorrow.

 

“I’m going to show the world who the real Joel Diaz is.  I’m now at the right weight for me and I’m 110 percent.  I didn’t waste four weeks of training camp trying to lose weight.  I feel strong.

 

“A world championship after this fight, that’s what I want.  This is my opportunity to actually show who I am and I can’t let it go.  If I let this go, I might as well go back to school.  This is going to open all the doors for me.

 

“We’ve been ready for this step for a while.  I’d like to fight the winner of [Adrien] Broner- [Mikey] Garcia, but we’ll see.  I know Broner doesn’t want to fight me.  I tried to fight him and he turned it down.  He knows I’ll give him trouble.

 

“I changed trainers. I used to be with Abel Ramos, now I’m with Chris Byrd.  With Coach Chris, it’s more defense than offense.  Working with Chris is amazing.  He was a fighter, so he knows what it takes to step in that ring.  He’s been there, so he understands me from a fighter’s perspective and that’s very important for me.  The bond we have inside and outside the ring is special.

 

“You’re going to see a more active Joel Diaz and a more defensive Joel Diaz.  I’m going to show the world who Joel Diaz is at 140 and trust me, they will ask for more after they see it.”

 

Steve Rolls

“My last fight on ShoBox [against Steed Woodall in December 2015] was a learning experience. I was knocked down in the third, but I rebounded.  You never know how you are going to react in the face of adversity until you are put in that position.  I’m glad that happened early on in my career.  It taught me a lot.

 

“I’m know I’m 33, but I feel better than when I was younger.  I take care of myself.  I have a clean lifestyle.  Age is not a thing for me.

 

“Nicholson has a good jab.  I’ve seen him fight before.  I’m not sure if he’s made adjustments or if he’s coming with a different game plan.  I’m ready for whatever he brings.

 

“From what I’ve seen, he can fight.  He knows what he’s doing in there and it looks like he has some experience.”

 

Demond Nicholson

“This guy [Rolls] is not as experienced as me.  I’m a big step-up for him.

 

“My last fight [against Immanuwel Aleem] was a big step up, and I fought to a majority draw.  It was a slow start, but I’m a fighter, and I soldiered through. That fight really opened my eyes up to better my career, my future.

 

“Look at what Aleem has done since we fought.  He knocked out an undefeated guy [Ievgen Khytrov] that no one wanted to face.

 

“My experience is going to get us over the hump against this guy.  He has a dangerous right hand, but I’m going to take that away from him.

 

“I’m a natural boxer, but people were calling me a brawler after my performance with Aleem and that’s not who I am.  But I get it – I didn’t box at all in that fight.  That’s why I had to go back to the drawing board.

 

“I learned a lot training at Head Bangers in Washington, D.C. with Barry Hunter, Lamont Peterson and all those guys. I’ve learned from Lamont, from Adrien Broner, from Austin Trout. They spar with top fighters and that’s why they perform at the highest level – because they’ve sparred with the best. So I’m doing the same.”

 

“I have one loss, and that taught me a lot.  I had to lose 15 pounds in three days for that fight and that took a toll on me. There are no issues making weight for this fight.”

 

Jon Fernandez

“This is my second fight with my new trainer Tinin Rodriguez.  I always try to get better and changing trainers seemed to be the best path for me.  He’s helping me round up the fundamentals of boxing.

 

“I know I’m tall for my weight class, but I feel OK.  I think 130 is my ideal weight, but I might go up in weight in the future.  We’ll see.  I’m still young and I have a long career ahead of me.

 

“I used to watch tape of Maravilla when I was growing up.  He inspired me to be serious about boxing.  He was so good.  It’s such of honor to be working with him.  I respect him a lot.”

 

Juan Reyes

“I haven’t fought anybody that tall, but I have a good game plan. I know he’s a volume puncher, but that’s just going to get me excited.  It’ll get my adrenaline pumping.

 

“I’m excited that I’m fighting on TV and in such special weekend, it’s the Boxing Hall of Fame.  This is a dream come true.  If I beat this guy it could change my life.”

 

Sergio Martinez – Jon Fernandez Co-Promoter

“Jon is a thinker.  He knows when to attack and when to defend himself.  He’s truly gifted.

 

“Some may draw comparisons of him with Paul Williams, but I fought Williams twice and let me tell you they are not alike.  Paul was the type of fighter that would get in the ring and go from first, to second, to third gear without thinking. JonFer will read you, will go to whatever gear he needs to be to defeat his opponent.  He has a very high boxing IQ.”

 

Chris Byrd – Diaz’s Trainer

“Joel is an aggressive machine, so my main focus has been on developing his defense.  He’s a talented boxer, but his aggressiveness sometimes opens holes in his defense.  In this training camp, we worked on that.  We have a good strategy going.

 

“He already knew how to fight, but you just have to push him a little bit on defense.  He’s still aggressive as ever, but he needed to think about what’s coming back at him.

 

“My main thing is life after boxing.  I have two brothers that are messed up from boxing. That’s why I focus on defense so much.  He has an aggressive style, but he also has talent, good feet and eye coordination.  He’ll go on to do great things.

 

“You’re going to see something special.  Regis is good, I give him props, but you’re going to see something special from Joel.  And a great fight.”

 

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, @loudibella and @DiBellaEnt or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, and www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.