Tag Archives: boxing

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Hard-Hitting Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson Defends His Title Against Two-Division Champion Badou Jack Saturday, May 19 Live on SHOWTIME® at Air Canada Centre in Toronto in an Event Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

Leave a comment

SHOWTIME Presents Two Main Events In a Split-Site Telecast on May 19 As Featherweight Champion Gary Russell, Jr. Defends Title Against Top Contender Joseph Diaz from

MGM National Harbor in Maryland

 

 

 

Tickets on Sale for Toronto Event Friday, April 27

 

 

 

TORONTO (April 24, 2018) – Undefeated knockout artist Adonis Stevenson, the longest reigning light heavyweight world champion, will defend his title against two-division champion Badou Jack on Saturday, May 19 live on SHOWTIME from the Air Canada Centre in Toronto in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

The showdown between Stevenson and Jack is one of the most intriguing matches in the light heavyweight division as Jack, a former 168-pound and 175-pound champion, has relinquished his title for the chance to challenge one of the hardest hitters in the sport. Both men are looking to make their claim as the class of the division.

 

 

 

Stevenson vs. Jack is part of a split-site SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/PT with featherweight champion Gary Russell, Jr. defending his title against mandatory title challenger Joseph Diaz from the MGM National Harbor in Maryland on Saturday, May 19.

 

 

 

Tickets for the Toronto show, which is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale Friday, April 27 and will be available at www.ticketmaster.ca.

 

 

 

“It is the second time that we will come to Toronto to promote a WBC world championship fight with Adonis Stevenson,” said Yvon Michel, President of Groupe Yvon Michel. “If you found the first event to be spectacular, be sure not to miss the second one as it will be a real firework! Badou Jack is a two-division world champion and an Olympian. He is dangerous and by far the biggest challenge for Adonis since he won the title against Chad Dawson in 2013. We are confident that ‘Superman’ has what it takes to defend his title successfully for the ninth time.

 

 

 

“I would also like to give thanks to our co-promoter Lee Baxter. This event would not have been possible without his collaboration. In addition, I am grateful for Lee and Wayne Zronik from MLSE, who are providing great support for this event and has opened the doors of the Air Canada Centre to us.”

 

 

 

“Mayweather Promotions is looking forward to partnering with Groupe Yvon Michel to pull off this highly anticipated matchup,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Adonis Stevenson has been a reigning champion in this division since 2013. Badou Jack has risen to every challenge he’s faced in his career. Now, he has an opportunity to become a three-time world champion and that raises the stakes for him. I predict two confident, hard-punching and highly skilled fighters will enter the ring at Air Canada Centre on May 19, both determined to walk away a champion.”

 

 

 

“We are looking forward to hosting this spectacular event at Air Canada Centre,” said Wayne Zronik, Senior Vice President, Music and Live Events at Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. “It is the first title fight that the venue will host. We’ve worked with this group before to bring world class boxing to the city and are excited for the return of championship boxing to Toronto, and to Air Canada Centre in particular.”

 

 

 

Stevenson (29-1, 24 KOs) owns one of the most powerful left hands in boxing and goes by the ring moniker “Superman”. The 40-year-old Stevenson has made eight successful defenses of his title since winning it with a knockout victory over Chad Dawson in 2013. The lineal 175-pound champion most recently defended his title with a second-round stoppage of Andrzej Fonfara last June and delivered a third round TKO over Tommy Karpency in his most recent defense in Toronto in 2015.

 

 

 

“I’m definitely excited and hungry to get into the ring and perform,” said Stevenson. “I’ve trained very hard for this fight against Badou Jack. I’m looking forward to winning this fight by knockout. I’m from the Kronk Gym and we always look for the knockout. Jack is a good, technical boxer. He was a world champion and he has done very well. He’s tough and I won’t underestimate him. I’ll be prepared for anything he brings in the ring.

 

 

 

“I’m fighting him at home in Canada, so I’m looking to give the fans a good show. I’ve got power and I’ve got the best left hook in boxing. I’ve got 12 rounds and I just need to touch you once to end it. It’s not complicated. I don’t need three or four shots. I just need one shot and you’re not going to recover. I’m going to finish you.”

 

 

 

The 34-year-old Jack (22-1-2, 13 KOs) relinquished his 168-pound world championship following a majority draw against James DeGale in 2017 to move up to light heavyweight. He made a successful debut at 175 pounds by knocking out Nathan Cleverly for the light heavyweight championship last August. Jack then relinquished that title to seek out this challenge against the division’s heaviest hitter. Born in Stockholm, Sweden, a 2008 Olympian for his father’s native Gambia and now residing in Las Vegas, Jack is looking to become a three-time world champion on his opponent’s home turf on May 19.

 

 

 

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to fight for my third world title against one of the division’s best, Adonis Stevenson,” said Jack. “I’ve been asking for this fight for a long time and was willing to fight him anywhere, including his backyard. I know he’s good and very dangerous and that’s the reason I want to fight him. I’m all about the best fighting the best and come May 19th, I’m bringing the WBC belt back to Las Vegas. My newborn son, Malik was born just before training camp so now I have two children to fight for, which gives me all the motivation I need to get this win.”

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,mayweatherpromotions.com and www.groupeyvonmichel.ca follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @AdonisSuperman, @BadouJack, @MayweatherPromo, or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, ,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionsandwww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing

Bahamian Sons Promotions bringing live Professional boxing to Grand Bahama on May 26 in Freeport

Leave a comment

FREEPORT, Grand Bahamas (April 24, 2018) – Bahamian boxing icon Sherman “Tank” Williams and Bahamian Sons Promotion presents live professional boxing, “Backyard Rumble”, on May 26 at A Social Affair and Convention Center in Freeport, Grand Bahamas.

 

 

“Bahamian Sons Promotions seeks to create an exciting venue in Freeport and across the Bahamas for live and televised professional boxing,” said Kimberly Williams, Sherman’s wife and president of Bahamian Sons Promotion. “Easy access to the beautiful islands of the Bahamas are the perfect place to train and get away.”

 

 

Fighting at home in the 10-round event, Williams (39-15-2, 1 NC, 21 KOs) takes on former world light heavyweight title challenger Epifanio “Diamante” Mendoza (43-26-1, 37 KOs), the Colombian knockout artist.

 

 

Williams has been stopped only once in 57 pro fights, extending former world champion Joseph Parker and Ruslan Chagaev, as well as top contenders Christian Hammer,Robert Helenius and Manuel Charr, the full distance in their fights. “Tank” defeated former world cruiserweight champion Al “Ice” Cole, fought world title challenger Jameel McClineto a draw, and was leading Hall of Famer Evander Holyfield until their 2011 fight was stopped due to questionable referee decision and declared a “no contest.”

 

 

During his 20 ½-years pro career, Williams has used his vaunted “conch (overhand right) punch” to knockout 21 opponents. His many heavyweight titles have included World Boxing Organization (WBO) China National, Oriental and Asia Pacific, PABA, World Boxing Council (WBC) Caribbean Boxing Federation, World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedecaribe and World Boxing Foundation Intercontinental championships.

 

 

Mendoza lost his world light heavyweight title fight in 2007 to Chad Dawson. The still dangerous Colombian defeated previously undefeated Rubin Williams (19-1). He has fought world champions Jeff Lacy, Beibut Shumenov, Yunier Dorticos, as well as world title challengers Sullivan Barrera, Luis Ortiz and BJ Flores.

 

 

Popular Florida heavyweight Chris Vendola (8-6, 8 KOs) faces former Mid-American cruiserweight champion Terry Porter (15-26-3, 9 KOs) in a six-round bout. Porter, a veteran boxer from Arkansas, has been in the ring with world champions James Toney, Samuel Peter and William Guthrie, in addition to infamous Ike Ibeabuchi.

 

 

Texas heavyweight Eugene “Mean Gene” Hill (34-1, 22 KOs), a former World Boxing Association International champion, meets an opponent to be determined.   Hill is unbeaten in his last 19 fights (18-0-1).

 

 

Also fighting on the “Backyard Rumble” undercard is Houston (TX) super welterweight Star Johnson (6-28-1), Vero Beach, Florida welterweight Johnathan Pierre (2-0), and New Providence, Bahamas heavyweight Amron “Sandman” Sands (3-0, 3-0).

 

 

All fights and fighters subject to change.

boxing

Great test for the undefeated prospect Matías against Estrella in Cataño

Leave a comment

After an impressive third round win over world title challenger Daulis Prescott, Puerto Rican prospect Subriel Matías (9-0, 9 KO’s) from the Maternillo neighborhood of Fajardo has a big test in his young career when he faces the Mexican puncher Adrian “Diamante” Estrella (28-1, 24 KO’s) on Saturday, May 19 at the Pedro “Perucho” Cepeda ballpark in Cataño, Puerto Rico.

 

 

 

 

The Matías v. Estrella bout is scheduled for 10 rounds in the junior welterweight division (140 pounds).

 

 

 

 

“Subriel is the most developed prospect in Puerto Rico. They told us we were crazy when we put him up against Jeffrey Fontánez, but Subriel knocked him out in two rounds. In each fight, we raise the quality of the opponents and he continues to dispatch them easily. His fighting style confuses his opponents with his various rhythms and power in his punches. I understand that on May 19, he will show that he is at a great level”, said promoter Juan Orengo of Fresh Productions, who also promotes the career of the highly-ranked boxer Emmanuel “Manny” Rodríguez, who will fight on May 5th in London for the IBF bantamweight world title against local and former champion, Paul Butler.

 

 

 

 

“I like challenges,” said Matías, “I want fans to know that my fights are to help me in my development and keep moving forward to the big fights. When that moment arrives to be in the big stages, I will be ready. It’s not worth having easy fights that don’t help my development and even deceive the fans who, with so much sacrifice, they pay for their tickets. My respects for Adrian Estrella for accepting the fight. He is a Mexican warrior who comes to give everything and I come with that same mentality. ”

 

 

 

 

With only nine fights in his professional history, Matías has strong victories over the world title challenger Daulis Prescott of Colombia, former Venezuelan Olympian Patrick López, the rising prospect Fontánez of Puerto Rico, and the strong Brazilian puncher Joaquim Carneiro.

 

 

 

 

Estrella, on the other hand, has victories over former world champions Celestino Caballero, DeMarcus Corley and over world title contenders Balweg Bangoyan and Dante Jardón.

 

 

 

 

In another of the stellar matches of the card, Abimael “Manos de Piedra” Ortiz (5-0-1, 3 KO’s) of Cidra, will face former London 2012 olympian Jantony Ortiz (8-0, 4 KO’s) of Humacao, in a duel scheduled for eight rounds at 122 pounds.

 

 

 

 

In his last performance in February, Abimael Ortiz defeated local fan favorite Josean “El Tren” Figueroa (Miguel Cotto Promotions), who fell by technical knockout in the eighth round.

 

 

 

 

 

On the other side, Jantony Ortiz defeated Dominican Lucián González by unanimous decision in his last fight in March.

 

 

 

 

The combined record of the fighters of these confirmed stellar fights is 51-1-1 with 40 knockouts.

 

 

 

 

Information about the remaining fights and the tickets sales will be available soon.

boxing, Ring 8

Stars coming out for this Sunday’s New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Dinner  

Leave a comment
Kid Chocolate, James J. Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Sam Taub, Bob & Murray Goodman head new class

NEW YORK (April 23, 2018) – Many boxing stars are coming out this Sunday afternoon,12:30-5:30 p.m. ET, for the seventh annual New York Stare Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) induction dinner at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

 

 

 

Among those boxers who’ve committed are NYSBHOF past inductees Vito Antuofermo, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland and Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, as well as Monte Barrett, Zab Judah, Chris Algieri, Ray Mercer, Dennis Milton and Alicia Napoleon.

 

 

 

Limited tickets are still available through this Thursday and priced at $150.00 per adult and $70.00 for children (under 16) and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. To purchase tickets, contact NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com. Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include (Long Island) WBA light heavyweight Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle (36-6-2, 22 KOs), (Central Islip) IBF Junior Welterweight World Champion Jake Rodriguez (28-8-2, 8 KOs), (Brooklyn) world lightweight title challenger Terrence Alli (52-15-2, 21 KOs), undefeated, No.; 1 heavyweight contender “Baby” Joe Mesi (Buffalo) and former world cruiserweight champion Al “Ice” Cole (Rockland County).

 

 

 

Posthumous participants being inducted are NBA & NYSAC World Featherweight Champion (Manhattan) Kid “Cuban Bon Bon” Chocolate (136-10-6, 51 KOs), (New York City) 20thcentury heavyweight James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett (11-4-3, 5 KOs), (Williamsburg) World Lightweight Champion Jack “The Napoleon of The Prize Ring” McAuliffe, (Kingston) WBC Super Lightweight Champion Billy Costello (40-2, 23 KOs), (Beacon) NYSAC Light Heavyweight World Champion Melio Bettina (83-14-3, 36 KOs), (Brooklyn/Yonkers) world-class middleweight Ralph “Tiger” Jones (52-32-5, 13 KOs) and (Port Washington) heavyweight contender Charley “The Bayonne Bomber” Norkus (33-19, 19 KOs).

 

 

 

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are (Troy) Pulitzer Prize-winning sportswriter Dave Anderson, (Brooklyn) trainer/advisor Pete Brodsky, (Rockaway) boxing historian/editor Herb Goldman, (Bronx) matchmaker Bobby Goodman, (Ardsley) NYSAC chairperson/judge Melvina Lathan, and (Brooklyn) NYSAC Chairperson/matchmaker/promoter Ron Scott Stevens.

 

 

 

Posthumous non-participant inductees are (Brooklyn) ring announcer Johnnie Addie, (Brooklyn) matchmaker Johnny Bos, (Bronx) boxing publicist Murray Goodman, (New York City) boxing writer/historian Bert Randolph Sugar and (Lower East Side) radio & television announcer/journalist Sam Taub.

 

 

 

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

 

 

 

The 2017 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: ,Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Ron McNair, andNeil Terens.

 

 

 

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

 

 

 

 

NYSBHOF

 

 

 

CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

 

 

 

CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

 

 

 

CLASS OF 2014: Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

 

 

 

CLASS OF 2015: Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.

 

 

 

CLASS OF 2016: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.

 

 

 

CLASS OF 2017: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.

boxing

CANTU REMAINS UNDEFEATED

Leave a comment
SAN ANTONIO, TX (April 23, 2018) -This past Saturday TMB & PRB Entertainment presented, “Whose “O” Will Go”, another successful boxing event that took place at the Mi Mercado Event Center in San Antonio, TX.
In the 6-round main event, James Cantu (11-0, 4 KOs), defeated Jairo Castaneda (9-1, 3 KOs), by unanimous decision, to remain undefeated in the welterweight division. Cantu, with his aggressive style, took the fight to the inside, making it uncomfortable for Castaneda throughout the whole bout. Although Castaneda had his moments, Cantu was the busier fighter who landed the cleaner shots. Scorecards read 59-54 twice, and 57-56, all in favor of Cantu, who recorded his second fight in four years.
The 4-round co-main event showcased Daniel “Da Beast” Baiz (13-1, 5 KOs) versus Isai Mireles (8-9, 6 KOs). Baiz dropped Mireles with a left hook to the body in round two, before cruising to a unanimous decision victory. Scorecards read 40-35 across the board for Baiz.
San Antonio TV (KSAT) ABC’s local digital channel, aired the event live on devices such as Roku, Amazon, and Apple TV.  Subscribers were able to watch the fights for free over the internet.
Underdard Results:
4-Round Featherweight Bout
Gregory Morales (3-0, 2 KOs) defeated Jahaziel Vasquez (1-7) by unanimous decision. Scorecards read 40-36, 39-37, 39-35
4-Round Super Lightweight Bout
Joe Sambrano (3-11) defeated Frank Brown (2-2, 1 KO) by split decision. Scorecards read 39-37 twice for Sambrano and 39-37 for Brown.
4-Round Featherweight Bout
Omar Rangel (1-0, 1 KO) defeated Vicente Loredo (1-1, 1 KO) by first round knockout at the 1:56 mark.
4-Round Super Middleweight Bout
Steven Ramos (3-0, 2 KOs) defeated Rudy Lozano (3-6) by majority decision. Scorecards read 40-35, 38-38, and 39-37.
4-Round Bantamweight Bout
Abraham Flores (2-0, 1 KO) defeated Manuel Rubalcava (4-27) by unanimous decision. Scorecards read 40-35 twice, and 40-36.
boxing

World featherweight contender Toka Kahn-Clary heads to Hollywood To work with Freddie Roach

Leave a comment
(L-R) – Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, Toka “T-Nice” Kahn-Clary & manager Seth DeRobbio

PROVIDENCE, RI (April 22, 2018) – World-rated featherweight Toka “T Nice” Kahn-Clary(24-1, 17 KOs) has graduated from prospect to world contender. To fully develop, Kahn-Clary recently shifted his training camp from the smallest state in the country, Rhode Island, to the second-largest city in America, Los Angeles, where he has started working with Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach.

 

 

 

Fighting out of Providence (RI), Kahn-Clary made the six-week move to Roach’s famed Wild Card Boxing Club to receive fine tuning from Roach, avoid any potential distractions at home, and have an opportunity for world-class sparring sessions.

 

 

 

 

The chemistry was there right away between Roach and Kahn-Clary. After his first day working with Kahn-Clary, Roach said the following: “Today was a very good day. Toka has great ring-generalship, footwork and speed. I was impressed.”

 

 

 

 

“Freddie is very precise,” Kahn-Clary reported after a few days with New England native Roach. “Sometimes I get a little lazy on the ropes. No, no, not with him. I wanted to prove right away that I listen. We were working on the pads and Freddie said, ‘You’re not as dumb as you look.’ I thought that was cool coming from him and took it as a compliment. He’s working on me being in total control in the ring.   I’m not really going to learn anything too new from him, but it always helps to add a new move here and there. He saw that I’m fast and work the angles. He’s not changing my style, just sharpening my tools.

 

 

 

 

“When there is sparring, the gym is packed with fighters from 122 pounds up to heavyweight. Not just two or three, but a whole lot of guys, and the competition between everyone is great We’re working on my next opponent. Right now, I’m just preparing for my next fight, and then we can focus on my opponent when we know who that will be.”

 

 

 

 

 

Toka-Kahn’s remarkable life story started in his native Liberia, where he knew very little about his real mother as a child, or how many siblings he has in his family. When his father moved to the United States and in 1998, six-year-old Toka Kahn and his younger sister joined him there in Philadelphia.

.

 

 

 

His father, though, was later shot to death, leaving Toka and his sister alone. In 2000, they moved to Providence (RI) to live with a family that, frankly, didn’t really care what happened to them. All signs led to him falling in with the wrong crowd and getting into serious trouble. He was homeless for a while but, fortunately, he found boxing and that became his salvation.

 

 

 

 

Saved the day his friend first took him to Manfredo’s Gym in Pawtucket, RI, when boxing trainer Peter Manfredo, Sr., USA Boxing/New England president Jim Perella and the couple that eventually adopted him, Andrea Watson and Ron Clary, all became key parts of Toka’s dramatically changed life.

 

 

 

 

No matter the weather, including snow and freezing conditions, Toka always rode his bike seven miles each way to the gym from his residence, which didn’t even have electricity. He never told anybody, never complained. One day, Andrea told the quiet, private kid in the gym that Christmas was coming, and she had a present for him – an extra bedroom. He was adopted and proudly changed his name to Toka Kahn-Clary.

 

 

 

 

A decorated amateur boxer, who registered a 131-11 record, Kahn-Clary collected numerous medals at national tournaments, highlighted by a gold-medal performance at the 2010 U.S. National Golden Gloves Championships. He was also a silver medalist at the 2009 National Golden Gloves Championships and 2011 U.S. National Championships, as well as a bronze medalist at the 2012 U.S. Nationals Championships.

 

 

 

 

Kahn-Clary arrived in LA on April 16 and he will remain there until May 25. “At this point in his career,” Toka’s manager Seth DeRobbio explained, “he had to make this move to position himself for a world title shot. There’s no quality sparring in New England in his weight class. Freddie is one of the best, if not the best trainer in boxing. Toka is going to benefit from working with Freddie. No distractions out there, either. Toka is going to eat, sleep, wake-up, run, strength train and box. That’s it, all boxing, 24/7.”

 

 

 

 

 

“I’m excited to see what my friend Freddie is going to do with one of our star fighters,” remarked Kahn-Clary’s promoter, Hall of Famer Evander Holyfield. “Toka is ready for anybody in the 126-pounds division and Freddie is going to bring out the best in him.”

 

 

 

 

Manfredo, Sr. remains involved in Toka’s career, working his corner with chief second Roach for his next fight, hopefully, June 2nd in Atlantic City (NJ) on his promoter’s (The Real Deal Boxing) proposed card.

 

 

 

 

“I was involved in this decision and I’ve worked with Freddie before (with Peter Manfredo, Jr.),” Manfredo, Sr. remarked. “It is the right move to advance his career. Toka is probably the best fighter I’ve ever trained. He’ll be away from distractions at home and get quality sparring. Freddie is a top-notch trainer, who I have nothing but admiration and respect for. Freddie will teach him more and we work well together. He’s so knowledgeable and a great guy, too. Freddie is a teacher and I’ll learn more as well.”

 

 

 

 

Kahn-Clary recently became a father for the first time, but he understands the sacrifice he’s making for his pro boxing career will payoff sooner rather than alter for his family.

 

 

 

 

“I talk to my daughter every day,” the affable Kahn-Clary concluded. “Thank God for technology. I facetime because she’s five months old and I don’t want her to forget my face. I don’t know how fighters used to go away to camp.”

 

 

 

 

 

The 25-year-old Kahn-Clary is world rated by the International Boxing Federation (#11) and World Boxing Federation (#13). In his last two fights, Kahn-Clary defeated a pair of undefeated opponents, David Berna (13-0) by way of a second-round technical knockout in Louisville (KY for the interim North American Boxing Association (NABA) featherweight title, adding the NABA USNBC featherweight crown to his growing display case this past December, when John Vincent Moralde (19-0) was unable to continue after seven rounds of punishment in Providence.

 

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

 

Twitter & Instagram: @TokaKahnClary

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/tokakahn.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ADRIEN BRONER & JESSIE VARGAS FIGHT TO HIGHLY ENTERTAINING MAJORITY DRAW SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

Leave a comment

Jermall Charlo Sends Statement To Middleweight Division With KO Of Hugo Centeno Jr.; VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2vxBnDM

 

 

 

Gervonta Davis Reclaims 130-Pound Title With TKO Of Jesus Cuellar; VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2vusWsW

 

 

 

Watch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 P.M. ET/PT On 

SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

(Photos to be added shortly)

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Janer Bigio/Mayweather Promotions

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

 

 

BROOKLYN (April 22, 2018) – Four-division world champion Adrien Broner and two-division world champion Jessie Vargas fought to a highly entertaining 12-round majority draw Saturday night on SHOWTIME in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING in front of 13,964 fans at Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

The back-and-forth battle was a tale of activity vs. accuracy. Vargas was by far the more active fighter, throwing 839 total punches, 300 more than his opponent. Yet the flashy Broner was supremely accurate, connecting on 44 percent of his power shots and 38 percent of his total punches, compared to just 27 and 24, respectively, for Vargas.

 

 

 

Broner (33-3-1, 24 KOs) came on strong in the second half of the fight, picking up rounds eight through 10 on all three of the judges’ scorecards. The 12th round was crucial in determining the draw, which was scored 115-113 Broner and 114-114 twice. The judges agreed on eight of the 12 rounds but couldn’t agree on the final round, which was ruled differently by the two judges who scored the fight a draw.

 

 

“I want to thank Jessie Vargas. He’s a two-time world champion for a reason,” said Broner, who was working for the first time with Kevin Cunningham as his head trainer. “He came to fight but at the end of the day, you all know I beat him. Point blank, period.

 

 

 

“I was connecting with rights. I got warmed up in the early portion of the fight. My trainer was a big help tonight. I want to thank Coach Cunningham as well as my original coach, Mike Stafford, for realizing I needed to do something different.

 

 

 

“I would love to fight Vargas again, but let’s go back to my town to do it.”

 

 

 

Vargas (28-2-1, 10 KOs) worked off the jab and was incredibly effective with his body shots in just his second fight with trainer and former world champion Mike “The Body Snatcher” McCallum.

 

 

 

“I thought I won the fight,” Vargas said. “At the end of the day I can’t argue because I was fighting on the inside of the ring so I don’t know what you saw from the outside. I was landing clean blows. It was a good fight but at the end of the day I can’t dispute the decision.

 

 

 

“It must have been a close fight for the judges to have scored it the way they did. I felt that I won the fight and I was up two rounds. I’m relying on the judges to make the right decision.”

 

 

 

Former 154-pound champion Jermall Charlo sent a statement to the middleweight division in the co-main event, knocking out previously once-beaten contender Hugo Centeno Jr. to capture the interim WBC 160-pound title. VIDEO:https://s.sho.com/2vxBnDM

 

 

 

Charlo is now the mandatory for Gennady “GGG” Golovkin and didn’t shy away from calling out the WBC, WBA and IBF Middleweight World Champion.

 

 

 

“It’s been an amazing journey to get here,” said Charlo, the twin brother of WBC 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo. “I’m a two-time world champion. Bring on ‘GGG.’ I want that fight. I’m 27-0 with 21 knockouts. Everybody sees it. What more can I say?”

 

 

 

Charlo (27-0, 21 KOs) proved that his power translates to middleweight as he knocked out his second opponent since relinquishing his title and moving to 160 pounds. The Houston native has now won via knockout in five of his six bouts since initially becoming champion in 2015. A series of shots opened up a huge left hook in the opening minute of the second round, flooring Centeno (26-2, 14 KOs), who failed to beat the 10-count and was counted out at :55.

 

 

 

“Everybody has always avoided me and from now on, this is how it’s going to be,” said Charlo. “You see what you get.”

 

 

 

Following the fight, Centeno was aware of the mistakes that led to the loss.

 

 

 

“I thought I started off pretty well. I wanted to go out on my shield but it wasn’t my day,” Centeno said. “He caught me and got the knockout. I was trying to work my jab. I thought I got him with a couple good shots but I lingered too long in the pocket and I didn’t get out in time.”

 

 

 

In the opening bout of the telecast, Gervonta Davis became a two-time world champion in empathic fashion with a third round TKO of former champion Jesus Cuellar to capture the vacant WBA 130-pound World Championship. VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2vusWsW

 

 

 

The undefeated Davis (20-0, 19 KOs), who lost the IBF 130-pound title on the scales last August, scored three knockdowns in less than three rounds to win his second title in the super featherweight division. The 23-year-old connected on 49 percent of his power shots in his first bout with new trainer Kevin Cunningham.

 

 

 

“On the undercard of the Mayweather-McGregor fight, I just wasn’t focused,” Davis said. “It was the second time fighting on Mayweather’s card so it got to my head and it showed. After the fight, I went home and talked to my team and we decided it was time to leave Baltimore. I’m focused and it showed because I’m a champ again.

 

 

 

“There’s always bumps in the road when you want to become successful. It’s all about how you bounce back and tonight I showed that I’m a true champion.”

 

 

 

Davis utilized a combination of body shots, uppercuts and effective counterpunching to break down Cuellar, a former titlist at 126-pounds. Baltimore’s Davis floored Cuellar with a body blow in the second round and didn’t relent from there. The southpaw pressed forward in the third, stalking Cuellar against the ropes and sending him down for the second time with a series of combinations. Cuellar (28-3, 21 KOs) got up, but was in serious trouble and referee Benjy Esteves stepped in to halt the contest at 2:45 with the Argentine falling to the canvas for the third time.

 

 

 

“The game plan was to box a little bit and open him up with some shots,” Davis said. “When it was time, I went forward and caught him with enough shots to get him out.

 

 

 

“I want the IBF belt back and I’m ready to unify it with whoever wins the [Tevin] Farmer vs. [Billy] Dib fight.”

 

 

 

On Saturday’s telecast, it was announced that Errol Spence Jr. will make the second defense of his IBF Welterweight World Championship against undefeated mandatory challenger Carlos Ocampo June 16 on SHOWTIME in a homecoming fight in Dallas.

 

 

 

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader will replay on Mondayat 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, ,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionsandwww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. PBC was sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by Mayweather Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

CARL FRAMPTON WINS INTERIM WBO FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE WITH CONVINCING WIN OVER NONITO DONAIRE LIVE ON SHOWTIME SPORTS SOCIAL PLATFORMS

Leave a comment

  

 

 

NEW YORK (April 21, 2018) – Carl Frampton earned the interim WBO Featherweight Title with a clear unanimous decision victory over former four-division world champion Nonito Donaire from SSE Arena in Belfast in a bout that was streamed live to U.S. audiences via SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page. All three judges scored the fight 117-111 in favor of Frampton.

 

 

 

Frampton (25-1, 14 KOs), of Belfast, was the sharper fighter from the opening bell and imposed his will on the veteran Donaire (38-5, 24 KOs) in front of his hometown fans. Frampton controlled the distance well and was strong on the inside, landing a fierce right hand that caused swelling to Donaire’s left eye in the second round.  Donaire showed glimpses of why he was named the consensus 2012 Fighter of the Year, landing a vicious uppercut in the seventh and a big left hand in the latter stages of round number 11 that hurt Frampton. However, the hometown favorite was comfortable throughout the majority of the match, using his jab efficiently and implementing the gameplan of trainer Jamie Moore to perfection. The victory puts Frampton in position to challenge WBO Featherweight Champion Oscar Valdez, who is recovering from injury following his fourth title defense, a unanimous decision win over Scott Quigg on March 10.

 

 

 

“I think Jamie deserves a lot of credit because the gameplan was perfect,” said Frampton. “As you saw in the 11th round, Nonito Donaire is a dangerous opponent. I survived the round and stuck to the gameplan. At times, my boxing was beautiful.

 

 

 

 

 

“Donaire was a sharp puncher throughout. I was definitely hurt in the 11th round, people could see it. But champions survive and that’s what I did. The only thing on my mind is fighting at Windsor Park. I can’t wait to get there”

 

 

 

Frampton’s victory over Donaire was the first of four high-stakes featherweights’ fights on SHOWTIME® platforms featuring seven of the consensus top-10 ranked featherweights, including three world champions and four former multi-division champions. On May 19, WBC World Champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his belt against JoJo Diaz Jr. live on SHOWTIME and IBF World Champion Lee Selby will defend his 126-pound title against undefeated Josh Warrington live in the U.K. on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms. Finally, on June 9, Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares will meet live on SHOWTIME in a highly anticipated rematch for the WBA Featherweight World Title.

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports
 follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.To become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Former World Champion Ishe Smith Battles Exciting Contender Tony Harrison in 154-pound Clash that Headlines Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce Live on Friday, May 11 from Sam’s Town in Las Vegas

Leave a comment

Plus! Top Contender Andrew Tabiti Faces Lateef Kayode

 

 

In Cruiserweight Attraction in Co-Main Event

 

 

 

Tickets On Sale Monday, April 23 at 12 p.m. PT

 

 

 

LAS VEGAS (April 20, 2018) – Former super welterweight champion Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith will battle top 154-pound contender Tony Harrison in a 10-round match that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce on Friday, May 11 from Sam’s Town in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, top contender Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti will meet Lateef Kayode in a 10-round cruiserweight attraction. Smith and Tabiti, both Las Vegas residents, will be fighting on their home turf and looking to impress their hometown fans.

Tickets for the event, which is being promoted by Mayweather Promotions, begin at $25, are on sale Monday, April 23 at 12 p.m. PT and will be available at www.samstownlv.com/entertain.

“Mayweather Promotions has had a busy year thus far and the momentum isn’t slowing down with May 11th at Sam’s Town Live right around the corner,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “This venue is certainly one of the local properties that we enjoy working with and have made it our home over the past few years.”

“I’m looking forward to seeing Ishe Smith back in the ring after the stellar performance that he put on against Julian Williams to close out 2017.  I know that he is physically and mentally prepared to take on Tony Harrison and will not disappoint. Andrew Tabiti is a young talented fighter that is on track to have a bright future. He will look to build upon his flawless record in the co-feature against Lateef Kayode on May 11.”

The 39-year-old Smith (29-9, 12 KOs) became the first Las Vegas-born boxer to win a world championship when he defeated Cornelius Bundrage for a super welterweight title by majority decision in 2013. He lost the title by split decision to Carlos Molina in his next fight before earning another title shot against Erislandy Lara in 2014, that he lost lost by decision. Smith most recently dropped a competitive contest on Bounce against Julian Williams last November.

“I picked up right where I left off from my last fight. I’m back in camp. I didn’t take any time off since my last fight,” Smith said. “This will be the second fight in a row where I am bringing in a strength and conditioning coach. I credit my strength & conditioning coach, who played a major role in my last performance being one of my career best. It was no question, before I had a date I was back working with my team. I feel younger, I feel great – I’m the modern day Benjamin Button. I felt great in my last fight and I’m going to continue to bring it.

“I don’t feel like I’m approaching 40, I actually feel younger and in the best shape of my life. This camp I’m focused on not leaving anything into the judges hands like last time. I can’t allow another bad call against me. It’s time for me to make a statement, dominate, and get this guy out. I don’t know much about my opponent, but I’m going to make him fight my fight.”

Harrison (26-2, 21 KOs) is a heavy-handed 154-pound contender from Detroit, Michigan who has put together two strong victories since suffering a KO loss to unified super welterweight champion Jarrett Hurd in 2017. Harrison most recently scored a KO victory over George Sosa on Feb. 17 in El Paso.

“It’s about time for me to get back into the loop. This is a tough fight against Ishe, who is coming off of a good performance for himself against Julian Williams,” Harrison said. “I’ve been wanting to fight Ishe since my early days as a pro, and this is exactly the kind of fight that I need. This is definitely going to be a good one.

“Ishe is almost 40 years old, but that makes no difference to me. Ishe’s been a world champion, and in order for me to become a world champion, I’ve got to go through one. It’s a difficult task, and there is definitely no way that I’m taking Ishe lightly. I’m the ultimate competitor, and there’s not a fight in the world that I wouldn’t take. I’m ready to lay it all on the line in this fight, and that’s what makes it all worthwhile when I get the win.”

Tabiti (15-0, 12 KOs) has used his punching power to make a steady climb up the cruiserweight ladder. The 28-year-old, who was born in Chicago and now lives in Las Vegas, took a major step forward in his last fight when he scored an impressive unanimous decision victory over former world champion Steve Cunningham on Aug. 26. A win against the veteran Kayode will further solidify his position among the top cruiserweight contenders.

“My last fight I showed everyone that I’m a smart boxer,” Tabiti said. “I think a lot of guys expect me to just go in the ring and knock guys out but I feel like it’s important to show that I’m versatile. I can box with you or I can use my power and get a guy out.

“This camp, my goal is to focus on targeting the body plus using the IQ I gained from my last camp and fight. This guy is older, he’s coming off two losses, he’s on his way out, but I can’t overlook him. My last opponent was a lot older so I’m going to take the tools and experience and put it all together to bring the fans a great performance.”

The 35-year-old Kayode (21-2, 16 KOs) is looking to bounce back from back-to-back losses, including a unanimous decision loss to Keith Tapia in his last fight on Sept. 23. Kayode, who was born in Lagos, Nigeria and now lives in Hollywood, California, dropped down to cruiserweight after his match against heavyweight Luis Ortiz was declared a no contest due to Ortiz failing his post-fight drug test for performance enhancing drugs in 2014. His last victory was a unanimous decision against Nick Kisner in 2015. That paved the way for a shot at the cruiserweight world title later that year, which he lost by knockout to Denis Lebedev.

“Tabiti has absolutely no experience compared to me and his opponents have been less than formidable,” said Kayode. “I will show him why I’m in a completely different class of fighter!”

#  #  #

 

 

 

Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce will be available to be streamed live via Bounce’s new subscription-video-on-demand service Brown Sugar, which features an extensive and one-of-a-kind library of iconic black movies as well as Bounce original programming and series. Brown Sugar is available on Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Channels, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Kindle, Android and Apple smartphones and tablets and web browsers via BrownSugar.com. Brown Sugar also has Google Chromecast capabilities which allow video to play on televisions directly from mobile devices and tablets for consumers with Android and iOS devices. There is a free initial trial period for subscribers with a retail price of $3.99/month thereafter.

For more information visit: www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BounceTV, @MayweatherPromo, , and @Swanson_Comm , become a fan on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV. Follow the conversation using #PBConBounce. PBC on Bounce is sponsored by Corona: La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Bounce is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more. Bounce has grown to be available in more than 94 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all of the top AA television markets. Among the founders of Bounce are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.

For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. Battles Unbeaten Top Contender Joseph ‘JoJo’ Diaz Jr. from MGM National Harbor in Maryland

Leave a comment

 

Two Main Events to Air Live on SHOWTIME

in a Split-Site Doubleheader Saturday, May 19

 

 

 

Hard-Hitting 175-pound Champion Adonis Stevenson

Defends Title Against Two-Division Champion

Badou Jack From Canada &

Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

 

 

 

Tickets on Sale Now for MGM National Harbor Show

 

 

 

NATIONAL HARBOR (April 20, 2018) – Two exciting main events will be presented on the same night, Saturday, May 19 live on SHOWTIME as part of a split-site doubleheader telecast.

 

 

 

Featherweight world champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his WBC title against undefeated mandatory challenger Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. on Saturday, May 19 in a clash live on SHOWTIME from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

 

 

 

The other half of the split-site SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will feature WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson defending his title against two-division world champion Badou Jack in a main event from Canada presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

Tickets for the MGM National Harbor show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Golden Boy Promotions, are on sale now and are available by visitinghttp://mgmnationalharbor.com/.

 

 

 

Russell Jr. and Diaz Jr. have both had sensational professional and amateur careers, including representing the U.S. at two different Olympic Games – Russell in 2008 and Diaz in 2012. Russell is noted for having some of the fastest hands in boxing but will be tested by a young, hungry contender in his first world title fight.

 

 

 

“The featherweight division is one of the most talent laden in boxing and Gary Russell, Jr. is at the head of a class of terrific boxers at 126 pounds,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “Joseph Diaz Jr. is young, hungry and undefeated and he’s coming for the title and he’s going to have to beat Russell in front of his hometown crowd to take it. It has the makings of an instant classic. Boxing fans will be the real winners on May 19.”

 

 

 

“SHOWTIME continues to deliver the most meaningful and action-packed fights in boxing, week after week,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming for SHOWTIME. “On May 19, we have two events that demand top-billing, with world champions facing their toughest challengers in an international split-site doubleheader.  Gary Russell and JoJo Diaz will meet in the latest of what has become a de facto featherweight tournament this spring on SHOWTIME. Over the next two months, SHOWTIME will deliver four pivotal matchups featuring three world champions and seven of the consensus top-10 featherweights in the world. Adonis Stevenson vs. Badou Jack is by far the biggest fight at light heavyweight in 2018, fellow 175-pound champs facing off in what has the makings of a lasting rivalry.”

 

 

 

The 29-year-old Russell (28-1, 17 KOs), who was born in Washington, D.C. and now lives in Capitol Heights, Maryland, will be defending his title before a hometown crowd. This will be Russell’s second straight fight at MGM National Harbor following his knock-out win over Oscar Escondon in his first title defense there on May 20, and second defense overall. It was his third straight knockout victory in a world title fight since dropping a majority decision to Vasyl Lomachenko in his first world title shot in 2014.

 

 

 

Russell, who is trained by his father, Gary, Sr., is part of a boxing family. Two of his younger brothers, Gary Antonio and Gary Antuanne, are currently unbeaten professionals, are also trained by their father and will be fighting on their older brother’s undercard on May 19.

 

 

 

“I don’t see this being a long night,” said Russell Jr. “If he gets reckless, it might end early. I don’t plan on going the distance with anyone I step in the ring with. I know he’s in for a rude awakening. I don’t feel as though he has the punching power, the hand speed or the ring IQ to do anything to me. At the end of the day he’ll have the opportunity to say he got in the ring with Mr. Gary Russell, Jr.

 

 

 

“It will be an early birthday gift for my Dad. Last year I fought on his birthday, May 20. That’s pretty cool. I love fighting at the MGM. I love the convenience. I love that all my friends and fans, and the people who honk at me from their cars when I’m running can hop in their cars rather get on a plane to come and see me fight.”

 

 

 

Diaz Jr., who is also trained by his father, Joseph, Sr., was a two-time amateur national champion in the bantamweight division. He represented the U.S. at the 2012 Olympic games in London. Immediately after, Diaz Jr. signed with Golden Boy Promotions and began a stellar career that has earned him a spot at the pinnacle of the featherweight division.

 

 

 

“I’m happy to be fighting for my first world title against the best 126-pound world champion,” said Diaz Jr. “I’ll prove to everyone that I belong on that featherweight throne come May 19.”

 

 

 

“I will be the bigger man come fight night, and I will break him down physically and mentally. He just better give me the credit I deserve once I beat him, and not blame his inactivity for being a factor in his loss.”

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MrGaryRussellJr, @JosephDiazJr, @TGBPromotions, @MGMNatlHarbor and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing andwww.Facebook.com/MGMNationalHarbor. The event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.