Tag Archives: boxing

Russia’s Umar Salamov to Face Germany’s Denis Liebau in Explosive Light Heavyweight Clash on September 5 in Grozny

On Wednesday, September 5, fearless Russian light heavyweight contender Umar Salamov (21-1, 16 KOs) will risk his IBF #11 and WBO #15 rankings when he takes on treacherous KO puncher Denis Liebau (23-2, 21 KOs) of Frankfurt Germany, for the WBO International Light Heavyweight Championship.

 

 

 

The explosive 10-round showdown will be held in the Amphitheater at the five-star Grozny City Hotel in Salamov’s hometown of Grozny, Russia, and televised live in Russia on Match TV.

 

 

 

Eager for a shot at the world championship, Salamov has lately been honing his craft at the world-famous Kronk Gym in Detroit, while issuing public challenges to dangerous world champions Eleider Alvarez (WBO) and Dmitry Bivol (WBA). He was last seen in the ring in June, winning the IBF North American Championship by scoring an impressive ninth-round knockout over Brian Howard, live on Showtime.

 

 

 

“I love training in Detroit,” said Salamov. “I am excited to be back in the ring fighting for the prestigious WBO International belt. I’ve already held this title and I feel it belongs to me. I am the best light heavyweight in the world and look forward to proving that point in an impressive way on September 5, in front of my hometown fans.

 

 

 

Already known for going right at every hard-punching opponent he faces, Salamov says he’s going to be even more relentless against Liebau.

 

 

 

“I will be looking for another knockout,” he said. “Working with Head Trainer Javan “Sugar” Hill Stewart and my co-trainer Rick Philips has taught me so many new things. I am in incredible shape and I feel like it is impossible to beat me right now.”

 

 

 

“Umar’s world-class experience, skills and now a world class training regimen make him one of the best light heavyweights in the world,” said Salamov’s co-promoter, Dmitriy Salita (along with Kazbek Aslambekov of KA-Promotions). “Umar is facing a real experienced challenger in Denis Liebau, but I know he is poised for an impressive victory. He wants to make a statement and put the names in the division on notice. I know that he will put his skill set on display and will be impressive September 5.”

Great night for Fresh Productions Boxing

Before a euphoric crowd at the Tomás Donés Coliseum of Fajardo, Puerto Rico, Abimael ‘Hands of Stone’ Ortíz (6-0-1, 4 KOs) of Cidra, won by way of a sudden 5th round technical knockout over former Olympian Jantony Ortíz (8-1, 4 KOs) of Humacao, in a scheduled eight rounds fight at the super bantamweight division.

 

 

 

Jantony visited the canvas twice in the fifth round by body shots.

 

 

 

“Thanks to the fans that came together to the fight. Jantony is a great opponent, but we knew we had to beat him, but that was not going to be a easy task because of his great boxing abilities. Thanks to Fresh Productions Boxing for trusting me and giving me this scenario to show what can I do and grateful to Jantony for the opportunity to fight him” said an excited Abimael Ortiz, who in his last bout beat defeated Promotions Miguel Cotto prospect and localist Josean ‘El Tren’ Figueroa, by technical knockout in the eighth and final round of an exciting fight.

 

 

 

For the vacant WBC FECARBOX Lightweight title, Dominican Alfredo ‘Ojo’ Santiago (10-0, 3 KOs) looked impressive by winning by 4th-round TKO over dangerous Argentine Cristian Miño (19-2, 17 KOs) in 10 rounds agreed duel.

 

 

 

“Thanks to the CMB and Fresh Productions for this opportunity. Now with the victory I will be among the best lightweights in the world and ready to fight them” said Santiago.

 

 

 

Santiago, has notable victories over former Mexican Olympian Arturo Santos Reyes and world contender Jayson Velez, of Puerto Rico.

 

 

 

The freshly ranked # 20 by the World Boxing Council (WBC) at junior welterweight Subriel Matias (11-0, 11KOs), of Fajardo, scored a impressive 4th-round TKO victory over Breidis Prescott (31-13, 22 KOs).

 

 

 

Matias sent Prescott to the canvas in the third round with a resounding left hook to the face and the next round, Matias landed a upper to the jaw that sent the Colombian to the canvas again, and after overcoming the referee eight count, he retired from combat.

 

 

 

In his last presentation, Matías defeated Mexican prospect Adrián ‘Diamante’ Estrella (28-1, 24 KOs) by technical knockout in the fourth round. In addition, the Puerto Rican puncher has fast wins over Jeffrey Fontánez, former Venezuelan Olympian Patrick López, Brazilian puncher Joaquim Carneiro and world challenger Daulis Prescott, brother of Breidis.

 

 

 

Jovanie ‘El Lobito’ Santiago (11-0-1, 8 KOs), of Dorado defeated by technical knockout in the fifth round the Colombian Andres Figueroa (9-3, 5 KOs) in a duel scheduled for 8 rounds in the maximum weight of 142 pounds.

 

 

 

Santiago, defeated in his last fight former world champion DeMarcus Corley by unanimous decision. Also in his resume he has a victory over Antonio ‘El Cacique’ Ortíz, who was unbeaten in six starts.

 

 

 

In other matches, Angel ‘El Gallo’ Suárez (8-2, 3 KOs) of Guaynabo, defeated by unanimous decision Francisco ‘Monkey’ Rodríguez (4-4-1) of Santa Isabel. The judges scored 60-54, 60-54 and 59-55.

 

 

 

Four round bouts:

 

 

 

At the maximum weight of 153 pounds, Patrick Cora won by technical knockout in the second round over Orlando Fernandez. At 135 pounds, Steven Ruidiaz, of Canovanas, knocked out Héctor González of Coamo in two rounds. At 130 pounds, Jose Aguirre, of Arecibo, dominated Michael Estrada, of Fajardo. The three judges scored 40-36. In the bantamweight division Alexis Diaz beat Luis Torres by majority decision. The judges scored 40-37, 39-37 and 38-38. Debutant Bryan Álvarez of Cayey, won by unanimous decision over Emilio Rivera at 122 pounds.

 

WATCH ALL THE FIGHTS HERE:

 

https://www.facebook.com/1487002747979662/videos/303800300377598

CARL FRAMPTON & TYSON FURY WIN WITH DOMINANT PERFORMANCES SATURDAY IN DOUBLEHEADER STREAMED LIVE FROM BELFAST ON SHOWTME SPORTS® SOCIAL PLATFORMS

 

 

 

Lineal Heavyweight Champion Fury Shuts Out Francesco Pianeta To Line Up 2018 Showdown With WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder

 

Primetime Encore Presentation Airs Tonight At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME

Click HERE for photos; Credit: Chris Roberts/Frank Warren

 

BELFAST (August 18, 2018) – Former two-division world champion Carl Frampton knocked out Luke Jackson to retain his interim featherweight title Saturday at Windsor Park in Belfast in a doubleheader that streamed live on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms.

 

 

 

In the opening bout of SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL, lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury shut out Francesco Pianeta to line up a 2018 showdown with WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder.

 

 

 

An encore presentation will air in primetime tonight at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME®.

 

 

 

Frampton (26-1, 15 KOs) turned in an impressive performance and scored his first knockout as a featherweight in what was a “dream” homecoming fight at the home of Northern Irish football.  The former 126 and 122-pound champion now has his sights set at becoming a champion yet again in one of boxing’s deepest divisions.

 

 

 

After a dominant seven rounds, Frampton scored a knockdown via a body shot with 30 seconds left in the eighth.  Jackson (16-1, 7 KOs) survived the eighth but was clearly hurt.  With Jackson absorbing continued punishment in the ninth, and down big on the scorecards, Jackson’s corner threw in the towel at 1:21.

 

 

 

“This was unreal,” Frampton said. “The atmosphere was special, the crowd was fantastic and they made my dream come true. It was unbelievable from start to finish.”

 

 

 

Fury (27-0, 19 KOs) established his jab against Pianeta (35-5-1, 21 KOs) and displayed the movement, hand speed and footwork that a prime “Gypsy King” utilized to dethrone Wladimir Klitschko in 2015 to become the unified and lineal heavyweight champion.

 

 

 

“I think it was a calculated boxing performance, as promised,” said Fury, who was fighting for just the second time in nearly three years.  “We were able to get 10 good rounds in with a tough man. I was working on my boxing, trying to slip and slide, use the jab and get the rounds in. I was very happy with the performance.

 

 

 

“It’s no secret I need the rounds. I need to prove that I can go 10 rounds and have plenty left in the tank, and I did that tonight.”

 

 

 

After the fight, Wilder entered the ring to announce that the two undefeated heavyweights have agreed to a 2018 showdown for Wilder’s WBC title.  A date and venue for the event, which will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV, will be announced shortly.

 

 

 

“We’re ready now,” Wilder said during the post-fight interview.  “This fight will happen. It’s on. This fight is official. This is what we’ve been waiting for, the best fighting the best.

 

 

 

“There’s one thing Tyson Fury has never had. He’s won a lot of belts but he’s never had the WBC belt. If he ever even thinks about having this belt he better wake up and apologize to me because it will never happen. I can’t wait to fight you because I am going to knock you out. This I promise you. Every man who has ever stepped in the ring with me, I’ve knocked them out in devastating fashion. You’ve never been knocked out, but you’re going to feel the experience of what it’s like to be hit by the Bronze Bomber.”

 

 

 

The 6-foot-9 Fury, who never lost his titles in the ring, will now face the 6-foot-7 Wilder, who has 39 knockouts in his 40 professional fights.

 

 

 

“We are two men who will fight anybody,” Fury said.  “This man has been trying to make a big fight with the other chump, I think we all know who I’m talking about. They called, I answered. I said to send the contract, they sent me the contract. I said yes. And now he gets his chance to fight the linear heavyweight champion of the world.

 

 

 

“My promise is that when we go to Las Vegas, I’m knocking you out.”

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, subscribe to the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

 

 

 

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Amazon, Apple®, Google, LG Smart TVs, Oculus Go, Roku®, Samsung and Xbox One. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Amazon’s Prime Video Channels, DirecTV Now, FuboTV, Hulu, Sling TV, Sony PlayStation Vue, and YouTube TV. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel, and offers Smithsonian Earth™ through SN Digital LLC. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.

DEONTAY WILDER vs. TYSON FURY HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP ANNOUNCED FOR LATER THIS YEAR

WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder and lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury announced on Saturday that they have agreed to a heavyweight showdown later this year.  The announcement was made in Belfast immediately following’s the undefeated Fury’s shutout decision of Francesco Pianeta.   VIDEO:https://s.sho.com/2vVYtlj

 

 

 

Wilder vs. Fury, a 12-round matchup for Wilder’s WBC Heavyweight World Championship, will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.  A date and venue for the event will be announced shortly.

 

 

 

The 6-foot-7 Wilder is 40-0 with 39 knockouts and American’s only heavyweight champion since 2007.  The 6-foot-9 Fury is a former IBF, WBA and WBO Champion who has never been defeated in 27 professional fights. 

 

3-time, 2-division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera returns with a bang KO winner in his first fight in 7 years

         
HOMECOMING
 
Featuring the return of 3-time, 2-division world champion
“El Gallo” JOSE ANTONIO RIVERA
 
FRIDAY, AUGUST 17, 2018
The Palladium, Worcester, Massachusetts
 
 
OFFICIAL RESULTS 
THE CHAMP IS BACK: referee Bob Benoit (L) and Jose Antonio Rivera

WORCESTER, Mass. (August 19, 2018) – Seven years after his last fight, “El Gallo” Jose Antonio Rivera returned to the ring in grand fashion last night (Saturday) to headline “Homecoming, presented by Granite Chin Promotions in association with Rivera Promotions Entertainment, at The Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

 

 

 

The 45-year-old Rivera (42-6-1, 25 KOs), 35 pounds lighter than he was in February when he started training, packed the house in his hometown, fully entertained his supportive fans. Three-time, two-division world champion Rivera pressured Larry “Slomoshun: Smith (10-38-1, 7 KOs) from the opening bell and he never let up.

 

 

 

It took a few rounds for Rivera to wear off the rust, but he fed Smith a steady diet of body shots, gradually breaking down his opponent, as he won round after round on points. Twice in the sixth round it looked like Smith was done, but the tough Texan showed a lot of heart to survive.

 

 

 

Finally, Rivera closed the show in the seventh round, when Smith broke his hand in the fifth round and was unable to continue, kneeling in his corner, obviously in pain.

 

 

 

“I’ve always been tough,” Rivera said after the fight, “but I was a little rusty. He tested me early but, once he saw I wasn’t going anywhere and knew he was in for a fight. I started warming up in the fourth round. I was always a 12-round fighter. I didn’t know he broke his hand until after the fight. I feel great. We gave a good fight to the fans who have always supported me.”

 

 

 

“I give myself a C+ tonight. I’m going to talk with my family, but I’m thinking about one more fight, to make it 50 for his pro career).”

 

 

 

Jose Antonio Rivera (R) had a successful comeback fight

 

 

 

In the co-featured event, Worcester super middleweight Kendrick Ball, Jr. (10-1-2, 7 KOs) demolished Fabian “El Lobo” Valdez (2-4), flooring him with a right uppercut and soon after finished him with a vicious body shot for a technical-knockout victory in the opening round. The popular Ball was fighting at home for the first time as a professional

 

 

 

The rematch between Worcester junior middleweight Khiary Gray (16-4, 12 KOs) and Antonio Chaves Fernandez (9-34, 4 KOs) ended in the same fashion as their first encounter did three years ago. Also fighting at home for the first time, Gray blasted out his game opponent, cracking him with a picture-perfect, left-fight combination that put Fernandez on his back. Fernandez beat the count, but referee Bob Benoit halted the action.

 

 

 

Southbridge, MA junior middleweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (5-0, 3 KOs) remained undefeated, using a relentless body attack to drop Engelberto “Guarura” Valenzuela (11-15, 3 KOs) three times, the last ending the fight midway through the third round.

 

 

 

Springfield, MA junior lightweight Joshua Orta (1-0, 1 KO) turned in an impressive pro debut in a barn-burner that ended when (1-8-1, 1 KO), of Worcester, was unable to continue fighting after the third round.

 

 

 

Worcester welterweight Eslih Owuso (1-0) pitched a shutout in his pro debut, decking veteran  Bryan “The Brick” Abraham (6-31-2, 6 KOs) twice in the second round, en route to a unanimous decision win.

 

 

 

In the opening bout of the night, 45-year-old Jose Angel “KO” Ortiz (5-14-1, 2 KOs) dropped Patrick Leal (0-5) 10-seconds into the fight, once more later in the opening round, and stopped him in the second. Oritz, fighting out of Springfield, MA by way of Puerto Rico, was fighting for the first time in five years, and he registered his first victory in seven.

 

 

 

Official results below:

 

 

 

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

 

 

 

MAIN EVENT – MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Jose Antonio Rivera (42-6-1, 25 KOs), Worcester, MA

WTKO 7 (1:07)

Larry Smith (10-38-1, 7 KOs), Dallas, Texas

 

 

 

CO-FEATURE – SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Kendrick Ball, Jr. (10-1-2, 7 KOs), Worcester, MA

WTKO1 (2:21)

Fabian Valdez (2-4, 0 KOs), Cananea Sonora, Mexico

 

 

 

MIDDLWEIGHTS

Jose Angel Ortiz (5-13-1, 2 KOs), Springfield, MA

WTKO2 (1:03)

Patrick Leal (0-5), Somerville, MA.

 

 

 

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Khiary Gray (16-4, 12 KOs), Worcester, MA

WTKO1 (2:27)

Antonio Chaves Fernandez (9-34, 4 KOs), Brockton, MA

 

 

 

Wilfredo Pagan (5-0, 3 KOs), Southbridge, MA

WTKO3 (1:29)

Engelberto Valenzuela (11-15, 3 KOs), Agua Prieta, Mexico

 

 

 

WELTERWEIGHTS

Eslih Owusu (1-0), Worcester, MA

WDEC4 (40-34, 40-35, 40-36)

Bryan Abraham (6-31-2, 6 KOs), Schenectady, NY

 

 

 

 

JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS

Joshua Orta 1-0, 1 KO), Springfield, MA

WTKO3 (3:00)

Edwin Rosado (1-8-1, 1 KO), Worcester, MA

 

 

 

 

Event sponsors included Lundgren Honda, Elm Wealth Group, Atty. Maria M. Rivera-Cotto Championsofhealth@USANA.com, Chieftain Liquors, Centro Las America, Baystate Savings

Bank, Pamela Laporte Realty, Worcester Vocero, ChrisFIT Xperience and Grille 57.

 

 

 

A portion of the proceeds was donated to Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com: /RiveraPromotionsEntertainment, /GraniteChinPromotions

Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_, @Granite_Chin

UNDEFEATED KNOCKOUT ARTIST JON FERNANDEZ TO FACE FELLOW 130-POUND PROSPECT O’SHAQUIE FOSTER FRIDAY, SEPT. 21 LIVE ON SHOWTIME® IN FIRST OF BACK-TO-BACK WEEKS OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION ACTION

 Fernandez-Foster Headlines ShoBox Tripleheader Live at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

 

NEW YORK (August 16, 2018) – Undefeated super featherweight prospect Jon Fernandez will face O’Shaquie Foster in the main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader on Friday, September 21 live on SHOWTIME® at 9:45 p.m. ET/PTfrom Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

 

 

 

The telecast, headlined by two ShoBox veterans, is the first of back-to-back ShoBox: The New Generation telecasts on Fridays in September.  The following week, September 28, will mark the sixth telecast in 2018 of the popular developmental series that has produced 77 world champions including the likes of Errol Spence Jr. and Deontay Wilder.

 

 

 

The event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment, is likely to see knockout stoppages, with six prospects boasting a combined record of 68-2-1 and 47 KOs.

 

 

 

“I’m thrilled to promote what will be an exciting edition of ShoBox: The New Generation, on Friday, September 21, at FireLake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “This tripleheader features WBC Silver champion Fernandez, one of the hottest prospects in boxing, facing Foster, a tough Texan trained by the renowned Bobby Benton. The co-feature will be explosive while it lasts between Gonzalez, a New England knockout artist newly signed to DiBella Entertainment, and Ramos, an all-action pressure fighter from Spain promoted by Sergio Martinez. One of Brooklyn’s finest prospects, Ferrer will open the telecast against fellow unbeaten Ortiz, a stablemate of world champion Tevin Farmer from Philadelphia. I’m grateful to ShoBox Executive Producer Gordon Hall and SHOWTIME for continuing to provide a platform to showcase these top prospects.”

 

 

 

The powerful Fernandez (16-0, 14 KOs), a prospect from Bilbao, Spain co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and MaravillaBox Promotions, will be making his third ShoBox appearance when he faces Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in the 10-round main event contested at 130 pounds.

 

 

 

In a battle of two featherweights packing punching power, Worcester, Massachusetts’ Irvin Gonzalez Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) will take on Carlos Ramos (9-0, 6 KOs) in a scheduled eight-rounder. Rounding out the tripleheader, Wesley Ferrer (12-0-1, 7 KOs) of Brooklyn, N.Y., collides with undefeated lightweight prospect Steven Ortiz (8-0, 3 KOs) in the eight-round telecast opener.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event are priced at $60 for ringside, $40 for floor seats and $30 for general admission. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 24 and can be purchased online at www.firelakearena.com.

 

 

 

JON FERNANDEZ vs. O’SHAQUIE FOSTER – 10-Round Super Featherweight Bout

Fernandez, the protégé of former unified middleweight world champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez, scored two sensational knockouts on ShoBox in 2017, stopping Ernesto Garza in the third round and knocking out Juan Reyes with a highlight-reel right hook. VIDEO: https://youtu.be/IC2HRJqxa-Q

 

 

 

Making a name for himself as one of the best prospects in the sport, “Jonfer” has knocked out 14 consecutive opponents. The 5’11” Spaniard, who holds an 88 percent knockout ratio, is traveling to the U.S. for the fourth time with an eye on a statement victory.

 

 

 

“O’Shaquie Foster is a very good fighter and although he was the underdog he put on a great performance by beating Frankie Alba in his last fight,” Fernandez said.  “This is a big fight for both of us. I’m grateful to Lou DiBella for this opportunity to again show why I’m one of the best prospects in boxing.”

 

 

 

Fernandez, ranked WBC No. 10 at 130 pounds, won the vacant WBC Youth World Super Featherweight Title in 2016 and the vacant WBC Silver Super Featherweight Title in 2017. The former amateur standout, who landed on the ESPN Top Prospects of 2017 list, is currently trained by Tinín Rodríguez in Madrid.

 

 

 

O’Shaquie Foster, of Orange, Texas, is making his fourth appearance on ShoBox, last appearing on the series in July 2016. Since falling to Rolando Chinea in a close split-decision in that ShoBox appearance, Foster has bounced back with three consecutive victories, including a majority-decision victory over veteran Frank De Alba last time out in April.

 

 

 

“This is a great opportunity for me,” said Foster. “I know how good Fernandez is and how well thought of he is, but once we get in the ring, I’ll show the world that I’m a future world champion. I’ve been in training and will be ready for victory on September 21.”

 

 

 

A highly decorated amateur standout who compiled a record of 162-18, the 24-year-old Foster advanced to the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials where he lost to once-beaten professional prospect, Joseph “Jo-Jo” Diaz. Before that, Foster was a 2010 PAL National Champion, a five-time Ringside National Champion and two-time National Junior Golden Gloves Champion.

 

 

 

IRVIN GONZALEZ JR. vs. CARLOS RAMOS – Eight-Round Featherweight Bout

A 22-year-old from Worcester, Mass., Gonzalez turned pro in 2016 after a standout amateur career where he compiled a 90-15 record. He was a 2015 New England Golden Gloves champion and qualified for the 2016 Olympic trials.

 

 

 

Gonzalez, who will be making his ShoBox debut, has knocked out all but one of his professional opponents. He scored an impressive unanimous decision victory over Raul Lopez and a body shot knockout of previously undefeated Marlon Olea in back-to-back bouts in 2017.

 

 

 

“This is an opportunity to show the world what I’ve been working my whole life for,” Gonzalez said.  “With hard work anything is possible and I will show on September 21 that I have what it takes to become a world champion.  This is just the next step for me.  I’m entering and leaving the ring with an undefeated record.”

 

 

 

Undefeated featherweight prospect Carlos Ramos, born in Ecuador but fighting out of Madrid, Spain, has compiled a perfect record of 9-0 with six knockouts. The 22-year-old southpaw will be making his U.S. debut against a serious step-up in competition in the undefeated Gonzalez.

 

 

 

Ramos, also under the tutelage of Sergio Martinez, fought on the undercard of Jon Fernandez’s WBC Silver title bout in September 2017, outpointing Lesther Cantillano. Relatively unknown stateside, the young Spanish prospect will be looking to make a splash in his U.S. debut.

 

 

 

 

“I’m excited to fight in America for the first time and face Irvin Gonzalez,” said Ramos. “I know he’s a big puncher and has a lot of knockouts but all the great sparring I’ve had has built my confidence for a fight like this. I’m sharper than ever and ready to hand him his first loss.”

 

 

 

WESLEY FERRER vs. STEVEN ORTIZ – Eight-Round LIGHTWEIGHT Bout

Ferrer, a Brooklyn, N.Y. native, will be making his ShoBox television debut in his first fight of 2018. The skilled lightweight has started his professional career unbeaten through his first 13 fights, and will be facing his second consecutive undefeated opponent. In December 2017, Ferrer, who is trained by his father Mateo De La Cruz, fought to a hotly contested draw with Will Madera in Times Square.

 

 

 

“This is exactly the fight I need against another undefeated prospect so that I can show how good I am,” said Ferrer. “This is my first fight of 2018, my first on ShoBox and hopefully the first of many big wins.”

 

 

 

An accomplished amateur boxer in New York City, Ferrer was a two-time New York Golden

Gloves champion, 2012 New York Amateur Boxing champion and New York City Metro Tournament champion, as well as a participant at the 2013 National Golden Gloves.

 

 

 

Steven Ortiz, signed to Evander Holyfield’s The Real Deal Boxing, has made a name for himself in Philadelphia, winning five straight bouts in his hometown. Last time out, Ortiz registered an impressive second round knockout of Joshua Davis, sending his opponent to the canvas three times. Compiling a record of 45-5 as an amateur, Ortiz is a five-time Pennsylvania Golden Gloves Champion and National Silver Gloves Winner.

 

 

 

“I am excited to show my talents on ShoBox and promise to bring an exciting fight against Wesley Ferrer,” Ortiz said.  “The world is going to see the new face of the lightweight division on Sept. 21.  I can’t wait to show everyone who Steven Ortiz is.”

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sportsfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

 

 

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

TWO UNDEFEATED FIGHTERS COLLIDE ONCE AGAIN

SELINA BARRIOS vs. PATRICIA JUAREZ
NABF LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE ON THE LINE FOR SEPT 22 SHOWDOWN

 

SAN ANTONIO, TX (August 18, 2018) – Undefeated NABF Lightweight champion, Selina “Aztec Queen” Barrios (4-0, 2 KOs), has an opponent for her Corpus Christi Showdown on September 22, 2018.  Barrios will face Patricia Juarez (4-0), sister of WBC Bantamweight champion, Mariana “Barbie” Juarez (50-9-4, 13 KOs).

 

 

 

On the line will be Selina’s NABF Lightweight title.  The 10-round bout will take place at Whataburger Field, home to the Corpus Christi Hooks, the double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros.

 

 

 

“Patricia Juarez asked to fight me, and I feel that part of being a champion is accepting fights with worthy opponents,” said Selina Barrios, who hails from San Antonio, TX. “She is an undefeated fighter with the same record as me, and her sister is a future Hall of Famer.  I look forward to making a title defense against a worthy challenger like Patricia Juarez.”

 

 

 

“I want to represent Mexico and fight on behalf of my country, and win this title for my people,” said Patricia Juarez, who trains in Denver, Colorado. “I asked for this fight, and now I have it.  I can’t wait to take advantage of this opportunity and follow in the footsteps of my sister Mariana.  I’m going to bring home a victory for my people back home in Mexico.”

 

 

 

In her last bout, Barrios, who is a devastating power-puncher, scored a sensational knockout against previously unbeaten, Aida “Lady Sparta” Satybaldinova (3-1-1). The knockout has already been featured on many boxing publications list for knockout of the year, as Barrios showed off uncanny punching power for the women’s lightweight division.

 

 

 

“Selina Barrios is one of the most talented fighters in the world and will be a force for anyone in her division,” said Kerry Daigle, Selina Barrios’ advisor. “What separates Selina from the rest of her peers, is her high-level ring intelligence, along with devastating punching power”

 

 

 

Barrios, who captured the NABF Lightweight title in only her third pro fight is taking a Vasyl Lomachenko approach to women’s boxing as she is facing her third undefeated fighter in a row.

 

 

 

“Corpus Christi fell in love with Selina’s style and power in her last fight, and what she is doing in women’s boxing, hasn’t been done before,” said Colin Campbell, who co-manages Barrios with his dad Charles. She is fighting the best opposition she can and knocking them out in dramatic fashion.

 

 

 

“There is no doubt in my mind, Selina will be the next female fighter to showcase her talents on a major network,” stated co-manager Charles Campbell. “She has the fighting style that everyone wants to see. She truly is the Roberto Duran of women’s boxing.

 

 

 

This event titled Heavyweight Boxing Showdown” is brought to you by CCC ENTERTAINMENT in conjunction with CC HOOKSHOUSTON ASTROS, and KEEPPUNCHING ENTERTAINMENT.

 

 

 

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTED PRICING FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST ONLY

Tickets priced General Admission $8Reserved Seating $12Premium Reserved Seating $20VIP Seating $150 are on sale now and can be purchased online at ticktreturn.com.

 

 

 

REGULAR PRICING IN SEPTEMBER

General Admission $10Reserved Seating $18Premium Reserved Seating $25.  Doors open up at5:30 PM, first fight is at 6:30 PM.  Whataburger Field is located at 734 E Port Ave, Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

CARL FRAMPTON vs. LUKE JACKSON FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR INTERIM TITLE BOUT THIS SATURDAY LIVE FROM BELFAST ON SHOWTIME SPORTS® SOCIAL PLATFORMS

SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL Begins At 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. On SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook And SHOWTIME Sports YouTube

 

Click HERE for photos; Credit: Chris Roberts/Frank Warren

 

BELFAST (August 16, 2018) – Former two-division champion Carl Frampton and undefeated Australian contender Luke Jackson faced off on Thursday in Belfast during the final press conference for their featherweight showdown Saturday from Windsor Park. Frampton’s first defense of the WBO interim belt he won in April will stream live exclusively to U.S. audiences on the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT. SHOWTIME will air an encore presentation later that evening on SHOWTIME EXTREME® (10 p.m. ET/PT).

 

 

 

An expected 25,000 fans in Frampton’s hometown will witness the first boxing event at the home of Northern Irish football. In the opening bout, former IBF, WBA and WBO Heavyweight World Champion Tyson Fury will square off against two-time heavyweight title challenger Francesco Pianeta in Fury’s second comeback fight after a two-and-a-half-year layoff.

 

 

 

Studio coverage of SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL from New York begins at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT with host Brian Custer and Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood providing pre-and post-fight analysis. Live coverage from Belfast, which will be provided by BT Sport, will begin with the Pianeta ring walk shortly after 3:30. U.K. sportscaster John Rawling will call the action with Barry Jones providing analysis, and Ronald McIntosh conducting post-fight interviews for Fury-Pianeta.

 

 

 

Here’s what the fighters had to say at Windsor Park, the site of Saturday’s fight, on Thursday:

 

 

 

Carl Frampton

 

 

 

“This is a dream. It’s soon going to be a reality to fight at Windsor Park in front of my passionate fan base. It’s special not only for me but for the city as well. Everybody’s talking about it and there’s a buzz in the city.

 

 

 

“I’m ready for this. I’ve seen a few things that Luke has said and I truly have not been overlooking him at all this whole camp. With all due respect, this is about more than Luke Jackson. This is about me at Windsor Park and I’ve trained very hard. I’m fitter than I was against Nonito Donaire.

 

 

 

“I know a fair bit about Luke. He’s very highly ranked by the WBO, I think he’s a solid professional. I just believe that I’m a different level. It doesn’t matter what anybody says, whatever happens on the night is all that matters. It’s all about who gets their arm raised at the end of the night and I believe that’s going to be me.

 

 

 

“Since I’ve teamed up with Jamie and his team, I feel like a different person. I wish I would have done it years ago. I’m so happy now and I’m enjoying boxing and I’m ready to put on a big performance.

 

 

 

“People ask me about (Josh) Warrington and (Oscar) Valdez so I mention them and those are the fights I want, but Luke Jackson is the only guy who’s been on my mind this whole training camp.”

 

 

 

Jamie Moore, Frampton’s trainer

 

 

 

“Carl Frampton is the consummate professional. Obviously, we wanted a big unification fight but it just wasn’t possible. What you’ve got to understand is that this has been a dream of Carl’s for a long time and it doesn’t matter who’s in the opposite corner. I understand why Luke Jackson’s camp is hoping that we’re overlooking him because it’s the only way they can gain any sort of confidence. It’s just not the case. Statistics show that he is 10 percent fitter than he was when he fought (Nonito) Donaire.

 

 

 

“Carl is in his prime. Boxing isn’t just about your technique or your fitness, it’s a combination of those two things and your mentality. He’s still improving which is just a scary thought.”

 

 

 

Luke Jackson

 

 

 

“At the start, I thought Carl was overlooking me a bit but I think he understands what’s at stake and if he loses to me his career is pretty much over.

 

 

 

“We’ve trained extremely hard and smart this camp and I’ve spent a lot more time with Billy Hussein than what I normally do. I’ve got to fight the perfect fight and I believe I can do that.

 

 

 

“A world title for me would be a real life “Rocky” story. I’ve come from nothing and there’s a lot I’ve had to deal with in my life to get to this position. I’m very proud of myself to be here. My father is 67 years old and he’s never left the country of Australia and for me to give my father a reason to fly halfway across the world fills me with pride.

 

 

 

“It’s no surprise that it’s going to be a hostile environment on Saturday. At the end of the day, I’ve just got to deal with it. I’ve tried to prepare for it mentally and we just have to wait and see if it works. I’m ready to weigh in and fight.”

 

 

 

Billy Hussein, Jackson’s trainer

 

 

 

“We’ve had a real good training camp. Carl is a great fighter so it’s an honor to be here and train Luke for such a massive fight. This is huge for us and we really want to win this fight. Australian boxing is on a high at the moment. We really want to win this fight for the fans who have supported Luke and it’s great to see the whole of Australia getting behind him for this fight.

 

 

 

“I’ve been around boxing my whole life. I’ve been involved in over a hundred world title fights, this is nothing new to me as a trainer so I’m able to guide Luke through all of this. He’s the ultimate professional and does everything right. His training camp has been more about being smart and I believe Carl Frampton is overlooking Luke and looking ahead to a Warrington fight. Just two weeks ago they were building (Sergey) Kovalev to fight (Dmitry) Bivol and he got beat and I believe we’re going to do the same thing.”

 

 

 

Frank Warren

 

 

 

“Luke’s not come here for just a sightseeing trip, he really fancies the job. It’s a big opportunity to upset Carl and put himself in position for some even bigger fights. But Carl’s a true professional and at the end of the day he knows what’s at stake here. He’s looking to make a statement and put himself in position for a possible unification fight. It’s no secret Josh Warrington is coming here – there are big things that can happen for the winner of this fight.”

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, subscribe to the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

 

 

 

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Boxing photographer Emily Harney Enters ring to KO Cancer

 
Haymakers for Hope: Belle of the Ball, Oct. 10, House of Blues Boston
  Emily “The Educator” Harney
(Photo credit: Cassandra Sanchez)

SALEM, Mass. (August 16, 2018) – Award-winning boxing photographer Emily Harney will swap her Nikon camera for a pair of Society Nine boxing gloves for one night –Wednesday, October 10 — when she fights in a charity event to KO cancer, the sixth annual Hayemakers for Hope: Belle of the Ball, at House of Blues Boston.

 

 

 

Fighting out of Salem, MA, Harney is entering her fourth year as a visual arts teacher at Gloucester High School, where her students learn photography, graphic design and integrated media.

 

 

 

Haymakers for Hope is a 501 (c) (3) charity that organizes charity boxing events to raise money for cancer research, care, awareness and survivorship. Emily, whose goal is to raise minimum of $5,000 to KO Cancer, is one of 32 women preparing to step into the ring Oct. 10.

 

 

 

“I’ve worked in and around boxing for 18 years as a photographer and consultant to promoters,” Harney said, “but I have never stepped into the ring to fight. When the time was right, and for the right reasons, I’ve always said I’d get in the ring. This is also the one part of the business of boxing that I am not familiar with: to train, fight, hit and be hit. I’ve covered some of the greatest fighters to ever step in the ring from all aspects of their lives, respecting their dedication, work ethic and privacy. Just in a few short weeks of training, my respect for their knowledge, dedication and lifestyle choices has elevated.

 

 

 

“In 2016, I attended my first Haymakers for Hope event and I was blown away by the energy and support for a cause that means so much to so many of us. I knew if given the opportunity to fight it would be a great honor and it truly is.”

 

 

 

Emily trains at Tomasello’s Boxing Gym in Saugus, MA, where she is trained by Joe Ricarrdi.

 

 

 

Harney is fighting in honor of her late grandmother, Susan Harney; friend and mentor Samuel E. Zoll, Chief Justice of the Massachusetts District Court; and Mason Silva, the son of Emily’s childhood friend, Alissa Collins-Silva, and her husband, Kevin Silva. Mason was diagnosed at six months old with myelodysplastic syndrome and AML leukemia. After months of treatment, Mason sadly passed away only 23 days after his first birthday.

 

 

 

“This past December,” Harney added, “I was asked by another childhood friend to come and photograph his children for their Christmas card.  His daughter Dior (7) was in Boston Children’s battling leukemia.  Getting the kids into a photo studio was not an option; and realizing we were confined to her hospital room, we transformed her room into a studio and made some spectacular photographs. Dior was resilient and positive during the time we shared that day. Dior is continuing to fight each and every day with resilience and grace.”

 

 

 

Tickets, ranging between $85.00 and $500.00, are on sale now and available to purchase at Emily’s personal fundraising page: https://haymakersforhope.org/event/boston/2018/belles-of-the-brawl-vi/emily-harney Go to “BUY Tickets” and type in HARNEY under “OFFER CODE” to purchase tickets and credit Harney’s fundraising efforts. Sponsorship opportunities and how to send donations if you’re unable to attend are also on this page.

 

 

 

Doors open at 6:30 with the first bout scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. This is a 21+ event. All U.S. citizens must have a valid DMV-issued photo ID or USA passport to enter the House of Blues and international guests need a valid passport.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.hayemakersforhope.org

Greg Cohen Promotions Signs Undefeated Canadian Heavyweight Champion Mladen ‘Monster’ Miljas to a Promotional Contract

Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions proudly announces the signing of Canadian Heavyweight Champion Mladen “Monster” Miljas to a promotional contract.

 

 

 

Undefeated Miljas, a perfect 8-0, 8 KOs, stands an impressive 6’ 6” and weighs in around 240 lbs. The 25-year-old Mississauga, Ontario, native won the Canadian title last December with an upset two-round stoppage of long-time champion Dillon Carman.

 

 

 

Cohen, a well-established promoter in the sport, has worked with several world champions and gained a reputation for finding hidden gems like Miljas in boxing’s less-travelled areas.

 

 

 

“It feels great to sign with a real promoter,” said Miljas. “For a long time, I didn’t have anyone arranging my fights, so it feels really good having someone on my team now. I’d like to be active and fight every month if I can.”

 

 

 

Having had just 20 amateur fights (17-3) and eight pro fights, Miljas is still a work in progress, despite being national champion in a country that has produced several world champions including Matthew Hilton, Donny Lalonde and George Chuvalo. Canada is also where several other champions learned to box, including Arturo Gatti and Lennox Lewis.

 

 

 

“I did martial arts, starting when I was four and got in a lot of fights as a kid, so it comes naturally,” he explained. “I’ve always been a hard puncher. I was that kid nobody wanted to play sports with because I played too rough. I don’t have too much in-ring experience, so I’m still learning in every fight. I get better and better, so I want to learn as much as I can in the ring and get in with a good variety of opponents.”

 

 

 

Cohen says he’s impressed by Miljas’ accomplishment already and sees tremendous potential in a fighter that big who can punch.

 

 

 

“Mladen is working hard every day to reach his full potential,” said Greg Cohen. “He’s a giant with unbelievable power and a natural gift for fighting. For a fighter with less than 30 fights in his life to take out the Canadian champ of the last four years in under two rounds, that is an amazing achievement. We are going to keep him fighting as regularly as possible and help him develop into a new force in the division. Mladen has all the gifts you need.”

 

 

 

“It felt amazing,” said Miljas of winning the championship. “It shows you I’m on the right track so far. I like to put myself in the underdog position. It’s good when you can overcome adversity. I like proving people wrong. Everyone expects you to lose and you go out there and win it anyway. I want to win bigger and better titles now. I want world titles now!”