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Leo Santa Cruz vs. Abner Mares 2 Los Angeles Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Featherweight World Champions Battle Saturday, June 9 In World Title Rematch Live on SHOWTIME from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

 

LOS ANGELES (April 10, 2018) – Featherweight world champions Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares met face to face at a press conference in downtown Los AngelesTuesday and discussed their world championship rematch taking place Saturday, June 9 live on SHOWTIME from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

 

Santa Cruz and Mares first battled in August 2015 at STAPLES Center with Santa Cruz earning the majority decision and a vacant featherweight title. Now, Santa Cruz will put his WBA Super World Featherweight Title on the line against the WBA Regular Featherweight World Champion Mares.

 

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions, begin at $50, plus applicable fees, and are on sale now To purchase tickets visit AXS.com or click HERE.

 

 

 

 

Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday at the open to the public press conference from STAPLES Center in Star Plaza in Los Angeles:

 

 

 

 

 

LEO SANTA CRUZ

 

 

 

 

“It was a really close fight the first time. Before the fight, I told him I would give him the rematch, just like I would have wanted if I lost. Now is the time and I think this fight is going to be even better than the first fight. Mares will be better with Robert Garcia. He has many champions and I’ve seen the improvement. That’s great motivation for me.

 

 

 

 

“I know he’s going to seek revenge, but I’m not going to let that happen. My dad is a smart man too and he always knows how to send me to the ring with the right style.

 

 

 

 

“When two Mexicans get in there, you know it’s going to be a war. I hope everyone comes out June 9 because it’s going to be a fight to remember.

 

 

 

 

“Every time I step into the ring, I do it for the fans. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be here. I always want the fans to go home happy. I want to give the fans a great show onJune 9 just like in the first fight.

 

 

 

 

“I think that Abner is going to be a little smarter than the first fight. He said in the first fight he didn’t train for the right fight. I know Robert Garcia will have him bring a smarter fight. We’ll be able to adjust and do what we have to do to win this one.

 

 

 

 

“I have to make some little changes. There will be adjustments. We have to be prepared to box. I’ll listen to what my dad tells me to do. We’ll know early and take it from there. I know how to fight different styles, but brawling is what the fans love. I’m going to do that while still being smart in the ring.

 

 

 

 

“This fight is dedicated to my dad as he battles cancer. The only way I can pay him back or try to lift his spirits is to train hard in the gym and give him this win. If he sees me not giving up, I think it will give him the courage to keep fighting his battle.

 

 

 

 

“It was hard after the loss to Carl Frampton. I got a lot of fan support that inspired me to get back to training and win my title in the rematch. My plan was to retire undefeated, but at the end of the day, the loss means nothing. As long as I give the fans great fights, that’s all that matters.”

 

 

 

 

ABNER MARES

 

 

 

 

“This is going to be another great one. Leo Santa Cruz is a great person and a humble guy. You have to be the bad guy against Leo. I could talk about what I’m going to do in the ring, but my fists and my brain will do the work for me.

 

 

 

 

“Once we get in the ring, you already know what it’s going to be. It was war from the first bell last time. Nothing could stop either of us. We pleased the fans and gave them a great night. This is going to be the same thing. We’re two young fighters, fighting for pride.

 

 

 

 

“The fight is here now and it’s official. I’m eager to get this win and get redemption. There were things I could have done that would have made the fight easier for myself. Once you get in there, I know we all have a plan, but once you hear the crowd, it can go out the window. I’m a warrior and that type of fighter who’s looking to get the win no matter what.

 

 

 

 

“I’m not worried about the decision in the first fight. I think he landed the clearer punches but it was definitely a close fight. I was happy with my performance as far as pleasing the crowd. I’ve moved on to the rematch. I’m going to make adjustments and get the win.

 

 

 

 

“I can talk about how I’ve changed, but you just need to look at my last two performances. People thought Jesus Cuellar was going to knock me out, but I was the one who dropped him That lets you know what type of team I have and what kind of Abner Mares you will see on June 9.

 

 

 

 

“It feels good to be back fighting Leo for the second time at STAPLES Center. Every time I fight here in Los Angeles the people show me love. This is my hometown and STAPLES Center is my house.

 

 

 

 

“I’ve always seen holes in Leo’s game that I can take advantage of. It’s a matter of going in there with the perfect game plan. I feel like there’s no way I can lose this fight. That makes it a more exciting fight. If he wants to box, I’m more natural than him doing that. We’ll see who’s done their homework and who can translate it to the ring.”

 

 

 

 

JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’s Father & Trainer

 

 

 

 

 

“My fight with cancer is the toughest one of all. But I’m fighting very hard and I’m not going anywhere. I’m right there by Leo’s side all the way for this fight.

 

 

 

 

“For the first fight for Frampton, I had to try to prepare Leo from a distance. This fight is different because I’m right there every step of the way. I’m telling him what to do and guide him every day.

 

 

 

 

“I think Leo is even more prepared this time than for the first fight with Mares. Leo is doing great mentally because he’s such a brave kid. I tell him not to worry about me and to keep working hard. He seems really motivated right now. He knows he’s doing well.

 

 

 

 

“Right now we’re working on maintaining speed, being smart and not looking for too much of a clash of a fight. I know Leo can win with his speed and his brain. He’s learning and growing as a fighter. I think Mares has reached his peak. Robert Garcia is a great trainer, but at a certain point, there’s nothing the fighter can do to surprise anyone.”

 

 

 

 

ROBERT GARCIA, Mares’ Trainer

 

 

 

 

“I was there live for the first fight and it was a great matchup. I knew then that Abner was much better than the fight he gave that night. He left the fans happy, which is all that matters to him. But with me in the corner, it should be a different fight.

 

 

 

 

“I think the fans have seen what we’ve done with Abner for his last two fights and they know that it’s going to lead to a totally different outcome in this fight.

 

 

 

 

“Abner tried to blitz Leo from the first bell and he knows that was a mistake. Leo is a tremendous fighter and you can never count Leo out. He takes a great punch and throws a lot. I think working with me for three years now will work out in Abner’s favor.

 

 

 

 

 

“Leo always goes out and pleases the crowd. That’s what he loves to do. It’s my job to get Abner to fight smart and not focus on the crowd. He has to focus on what I’m telling him. I’ll do what I have to to make sure he is.

 

 

 

 

 

“We’ve been training already for a little over a month. Sparring will start next week. Having Abner in the gym, we’ve taken his strength and conditioning to a level where he’s really doing the right work. He’s giving me good work each day so I know he’s focused.”

 

 

 

 

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports

 

 

 

 

“This is one of the most anticipated fights of the sport. It’s a rematch we’ve all been waiting for between great warriors in Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares.

 

 

 

 

 

“STAPLES Center has a rich tradition of bringing the best and biggest fights in Los Angeles here to this fantastic venue. STAPLES Center always seems to bring out the best in fighters as they fight under the brightest lights.

 

 

 

 

 

“Week after week we are witnessing great battles and great matchups on SHOWTIME. Every week is another ‘Fight of the Year’. They are pushing the best to fight the best and that is what we are going to see with these two great fighters on June 9 in Los Angles.

 

 

 

 

 

“We all witnessed the great first fight. Over 2,000 punches were thrown between these two fighters. It’s impossible when you have Leo and Abner in the ring to see a boring fight. We are going to have the pleasure of seeing these two guys going again. Once again, it’s a 50-50 fight. We don’t know who’s going to win, but we do know it will be all action here at STAPLES Center.

 

 

 

 

 

“Abner is a tremendous fighter inside of the ring and one of the most decorated fighters in recent history to come out of Mexico, but he’s equally impressive outside of the ring. He has a fantastic family and is truly one of the good guys in the sport of boxing.

 

 

 

 

 

“I’ve known Leo and his family for a long time and have been involved in many of his fights. He is truly, just like Abner, a family man who just so happens to be one of the best fighters in the world. He’s certainly one of the most exciting fighters in the world and it’s my pleasure to be able to watch him fight again on June 9.”

 

 

 

 

 

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

 

 

 

 

“This is going to be an incredible night. Los Angeles has always been a great fight town going back more than a hundred years. Any time you put two Mexican warriors together like this, you can’t help but get another great fight night in Los Angeles.

 

 

 

 

“In the first fight, Santa Cruz won an incredibly hard fought decision over Mares. From the opening bell they blasted away at each other, the crowd went wild and there was an all-out brawl underway for 12 grueling rounds.

 

 

 

 

 

“The last fight with this kind of significance in Los Angeles was when Bobby Chacon stopped Danny ‘Little Red’ Lopez in a now legendary featherweight fight in 1974. They fought for the mythical city championship on that night. While there are world titles on the line in this fight, I also know that these fighters have a lot of pride in Los Angeles and they’ll be fighting for the championship of this city on June 9.”

 

 

 

 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.comand www.staplescenter.comfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @LeoSantaCruz2, @AbnerMares, @Ringstar, @TGBPromotions@STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions andwww.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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Robinson wins 10th straight this past Friday night in Philadelphia

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Aleem decisions Bates in a battle of undefeated super bantamweights
 Knight, Ortiz, Okoth and Cannida remain undefeated
Philadelphia, PA (April 10, 2018) – This past Friday night, super middleweight Brandon Robinson won his 10th straight bout as he won a eight-round unanimous decision over Oscar Riojas in the headline bout of a seven-bout card at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
The show was promoted by King’s Promotions.
Robinson dropped Riojas with a left hand in the first round, and he was never challenged against the awkward veteran Riojas.
Robinson, 167.3 lbs of Philadelphia, PA won by scores of 80-71 twice, and 79-72 to rise his mark to 10-1.  Riojas, 168.8 lbs of Monterrey, Mexico is 16-9-1.
In a battle of undefeated super bantamweights Raeese Aleem was impressive in winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Marcus Bates.
Aleem scored a knockdown in the opening frame from a left hand.  Aleem continued to push the action by taking the lead, while Bates tried to counter, but it was the effective punching Aleem.  Aleem won by scores of 80-71 & 79-72 twice.
Aleem, 121.9 lbs of Las Vegas is now 11-0.  Bates, 122.9 lbs of Washington, DC is 8-1-1.
Colby Madison and Guillermo Del Rio battled to a six-round majority draw in a heavyweight bout.
Madison was able to draw blood from Del Rio’s right nostril in round three, but Del Rio was able to match Madison punch for punch.  Madison took a card 58-56, while two cards read even at 57-57.
Madison, 247.9 lbs of Owings Mills, MD is 6-0-2.  Del Rio, 198.8 lbs of South Houston, Texas is 2-2-1.
Poindexter Knight went the distance for the first time, but still came out with an a easy four-round unanimous decision over Vincent Floyd in a welterweight bout.
Knight knocked Floyd down in round one with a nice left-right combination.
Knight, 149.3 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 3-0.  Floyd, 148.3 lbs of Philadelphia is 3-5-1.
Joshafat Ortiz remained undefeated by pounding out a four-round unanimous decision over Evgueny Metchenov in a junior light bout.
Ortiz landed hard shots that drew blood from the nose of Metchenov in round two.  Ortiz won by 40-36 scores on all cards.
Ortiz, 131.5 lbs of Reading, PA is 3-0.  Metchenov, 130.7 lbs of Forrestville, MD is 0-2.
Denis Okoth won a four-round split decision over Rasheed Johnson in a welterweight fight.
Okoth took two cards by scores of 40-36 and 39-37, while Johnson won a card 39-37.
Okoth, 143.9 lbs of Siaya, KEN is 2-0-1.  Johnson, 147.3 lbs of Philadelphia is 3-2.
Kendall Cannida won a four-round unanimous decision over Carlos Villenueva in a light heavyweight bout,
Cannida sealed the fight with a final round knockdown that came from a nice three-punch combination, and won by scores of 39-36 on all cards.
Cannida, 178.1 lbs of Philadelphia is 2-0.  Villenueva, 173.2 lbs of Philadelphia was making his pro debut.
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boxing, Fox, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Super-Sized Super Welterweight, Sebastian Fundora, Relaxed and Confident Going Into Action This Friday Against Also Undefeated KO Artist Veshawn Owens

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It takes a big man to go into another undefeated fighter’s hometown and take him down, but as the biggest super welterweight in boxing history, Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora is more than up to the task.

 

 

 

 

The 6-foot-6 Fundora (8-0, 4 KOs) will face Minnesota-based KO artist Veshawn Owens (9-0, 9 KOs) this Friday, April 13, in an eight-round showdown at the Armory in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The pair will meet on the undercard of the Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes event featuring hometown welterweight Jamal James taking on Abel Ramos (9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT)

 

 

 

 

Presented by Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions, the event will also see rugged veteran Edner Cherry battling rising lightweight Dennis Galarza in a 10-round bout and Austin Dulay and Chris Colbert clashing in an eight-round match between unbeaten super featherweight prospects. Also appearing on the card is sensational 17-year-old 154-pound prospect Joey Spencer (1-0, 1 KO), a former No. 1 ranked amateur and nine-time national champion.

 

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is, are on sale now and are available by visiting www.ArmoryMN.com.

 

 

 

 

“I’ve fought in other people’s backyards and I’ve already beaten undefeated fighters too, so I’m used to this,” said Fundora, a confident 20-year-old southpaw from Coachella, California. “I don’t know much about Owens, but it feels great being able to fight tougher opponents. People are now able to view my full capabilities, instead of knocking guys out in the first round and it doesn’t mean as much.”

 

 

 

 

With a heavyweight’s reach and height, Fundora is massive for a 154-lb fighter… a natural gift he works on in the gym to its full advantage.

 

 

 

 

“We trained hard and worked a lot on distance and a lot more power and strength for this fight. I’m not just the biggest, I’m also stronger than anybody else. We started training for this in January. After my last fight, in Argentina, I took a week off and then started working on conditioning in Big Bear. It’s been a great camp.”

 

 

 

 

Fundora’s promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing, says “The Towering Inferno” is more than a “gimmick fighter.”

 

 

 

 

“He’s for real,” said Lewkowicz. “He’s already beaten some good fighters. How he puts all that size and strength into 154 lbs., I do not know, but Fundora is too big for anyone at this weight. You have to get inside on him and it’s just too far to go because he’s punishing you for every inch you try to take.”

 

 

 

 

“I’m more than happy with the way things are going,” continued Fundora. “A victory in this fight would be a good stepping stone to hopefully fight for a regional belt next. I will have a lot of opportunities after I win.”

boxing, Fox, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 Kicks Off 2018 Season With Three-Hour Action Packed Extravaganza From The Armory in Minneapolis on Friday, April 13

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Welterweight Contender Jamal James Returns to Hometown to Battle Abel Ramos in Welterweight Clash

 

 

 

Rugged Veteran Edner Cherry Takes on Dennis Galarza

In Lightweight Showdown in Co-Main Event

 

 

 

Plus! Austin Dulay and Chris Colbert Square-Off in Matchup of Unbeaten Super Featherweights & Sensational

Prospects Sebastian Fundora & Joey Spencer In

Action in Separate Matches

 

 

 

MINNEAPOLIS (April 10, 2018) – Premier Boxing Champions kicks off the 2018 season on FS1 and FOX Deportes on Friday, April 13 with five action-packed bouts on a three-hour televised show from the Armory in Minneapolis, featuring welterweight contender Jamal James battling Abel Ramos in a 10-round main event in front of his hometown crowd.

 

 

 

In the co-main event, rugged veteran Edner Cherry clashes with rising lightweight Dennis Galarza in a 10-round bout and unbeaten super featherweights Austin Dulay and Chris Colbert square off in an eight-round match.

 

 

 

Plus, exciting 6-foot-6 super welterweight Sebastian “Towering Inferno” Fundora(8-0, 4 KOs) will take on Veshawn Owens (9-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round match of unbeaten prospects. Sensational 18-year-old, 154-pound prospect Joey Spencer (1-0, 1 KO), a former No. 1 ranked amateur and nine-time national champion, battles Ousmane Sylla (1-2, 1 KOs) in a four round match. The televised action starts at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

 

 

The event marks the return of boxing to the Minneapolis Armory, a historic venue that hosted nearly 100 cards between 1915 and 1973, including a show headlined by all-time great Sugar Ray Robinson in 1942.

 

 

 

“This show is the perfect example of what Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes is all about – boxers at various stages of their career, each with something to prove in all action matches,” said Tim Smith, Vice President of Communications for Haymon Boxing. “The stakes are raised for Jamal James because he’s fighting in front of his hometown crowd and yo get in title the mix at 147 pounds and Abel Ramos wants to spoil all of that.

 

 

 

“Veteran Edner Cherry, who has tangled with Paulie Malignaggi and Timothy Bradley, and Dennis Galarza are both looking fighting to get into title contention. And it’s rare for unbeaten prospects like Austin Dulay and Chris Colbert to clash this soon in their careers. It all promises to be an exciting night of boxing on a night when the sports calendar isn’t crowded.”

 

 

 

James (22-1, 10 KOs) is coming off the biggest victory of his career – a knockout over tough veteran Diego Chaves on Dec. 15. The 29-year-old James joined unified 147-pound champion Keith Thurman as the only boxer to have knocked out the durable Argentine. It was James second straight victory since suffering the only loss of his career – a unanimous decision defeat to Yordenis Ugas on Aug. 12, 2016. James hasn’t fought in his hometown of Minneapolis since he scored a unanimous decision over Mohammed Kayongo in 2013.

 

 

 

Ramos (18-2-2, 13 KOs) will complete his move to the welterweight division by taking on James after making his welterweight debut with a stoppage of Emmanuel Robles last July. The 26-year-old out of Arizona has won three of his last four fights and his only pro defeats have come at the hands of top 140-pound contenders Regis Prograis and Ivan Baranchyk.

 

 

 

Cherry (36-7-2, 19 KOs) has defeated once-beaten contenders Haskell Rhodes and Omar Douglas since losing a split decision to Jose Pedraza in a 130-pound world title match in 2015. The 35-year-old Cherry of Wauchula, Florida has previously challenged Tim Bradley and Paulie Malignaggi during his career that included a 10-fight win streak after the Bradley bout.

 

 

 

Galarza (16-2, 9 KOs), an outstanding amateur boxer, is stepping up in competition with this matchup against the more experienced Cherry. The 25-year-old Galarza, who’s from Brooklyn but trains in Orlando, has won three straight fights since losing a split decision to Cesar Alan Valenzuela on Sept. 16, 2016.

 

 

 

Dulay (11-0, 8 KOs) was busy last year, fighting four times with only one fight going the distance. The 22-year-old southpaw from Nashville, Tennessee most recently scored a TKO victory over Carlos Padilla last August.

 

 

 

Colbert (7-0, 2 KOs) has one of the most decorated amateur careers in New York City as he fights out of the renowned Atlas Cops and Kids Gym in Brooklyn. The 21-year-old is noted for his blazing hand and foot speed and he enters this fight coming off a unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten Titus Williams last November.

 

 

 

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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @WarriorsBoxProm, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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CASEY “THE LADY HAWAIIAN PUNCH” MORTON Signs Management Contract With Prince Ranch Boxing

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SAN FRANCISCO, CA (April 9, 2018) – Prince Ranch Boxing (PRB) is happy to announce the signing of undefeated flyweight contender, Casey “The Lady Hawaiian Punch” Morton(7-0-3, 1 KO). Morton joins a stellar group of fighters under the (PRB) management team, which include Damien “Sugar” Vazquez (13-0, 7 KOs), Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (8-0-1, 6 KOs) and Issac “Canelito” Avlar (14-0, 9 KOs) to name a few.

 

 

 

 

“After signing with Greg Hannley and Prince Ranch Boxing, I feel my career is headed in the right direction,” said Casey Morton, of San Francisco by way of Honolulu, Hawaii. “I’m going to take full advantage every opportunity that comes my way. I’m hungry to get to the top and I’m hoping to be fighting for a world title by the end of the year.”

 

 

 

“Casey is a sensational fighter with a great team behind her,” stated Greg Hannely, president of (PRB). “In addition to her tremendous fighting talent, she’s also got the image to transcend across all aspects of multimedia. She’s knocking on the doorstep of a world title and we want to get her in back in the ring as soon as possible.”

 

 

 

Morton, who trains out of the SNAC Research & Training Facility owned by Victor Conte, is coached by Nonito Donaire Sr., father of 2012 Fighter of the Year, Nonito Donaire Jr. Morton and Donaire Sr. have two fights together, and she couldn’t be happier.

 

 

 

“Working with Nonito Sr. has been a tremendous blessing to my career,” Morton continued. “Although we’ve only been together for a couple of fights, I’ve learned so much in that short period of time. I’m starting to sit down on my punches, which has added a significant amount of power to my punches. We are working great together.”

 

 

 

In her last fight on March 25, 2018, Morton, with Donaire Sr. in her corner, traveled to Manila, Philippines, and captured the WBO Asia Pacific title, winning by a shutout unanimous decision against Nongmuay Kokietgym (13-4-3).

 

 

 

“I have a tremendous team behind me,” Morton concluded. “I want to thank Victor Conte, Nonito Donaire Sr., all my family and friends, and last by not least, Greg Hannley for supporting me on my journey to become a world champion. I give all credit to God for my blessed career.”

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Card set for This Friday night’s King’s Promotions show at The Sands Bethlehem Event Center

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Frank De Alba battles O’Shaquie Foster in main event

 

 

 

Luther Smith takes on Elvin Sanchez in co-feature

 

 

 

Undefeated fighters Jesus Perez fights Anthony Snonnier

 

 

 

Plus undefeated Juan Sanchez, Denis Okoth, Martino Jules & Laured Stewart

 
 

Bethlehem, PA (April 9, 2018) –  A terrific eight-bout card has been assembled for THIS FRIDAY NIGHT!! at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

 

 

 

6 undercard bouts have been added to the already announced eight-round super featherweight main event that will pit Frank De Alba (22-2-2, 9 KOs) of Reading, PA taking in O’Shaquie Foster (12-2, 8 KOs) of Houston, TX.

 

 

 

Also previously announced is the six-round co-feature pitting cruiserweights Luther Smith (9-2, 8 KOs) of Bowie, MD taking on Elvin Sanchez (8-3-1, 6 KOs) of Paterson, NJ.

 

 

 

The show is promoted by King’s Promotions.

 

 

 

The 30 year-old De Alba has a six-year professional who has wins over Andrew Bentley (1-0), Jose Bustos (8-2-3), Bernardo Gomez Uribe (16-3), Kiun Evans (12-2-1), De Alba has had some tough luck as he has had several fights fall through for different reasons.  This will be his 1st bout in just over a year as in his last bout where he won a eight-round unanimous decision over Ryan Kielczewski (26-2) on April 4th at The Sands Bethlehem Event Center.  De Alba has won five straight.

 

 

 

Foster, 24 years-old, was a highly decorated amateur standout.  Foster advanced to the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials where he lost to unbeaten contender, 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.

 

 

 

Foster is a six-year professional who won his first eight bouts.  Foster has wins over three undefeated fighters including Devin Parker, Lavisis Williams, and his last bout when he defeated Kaylen Alfred on January 20th in Houston.

 

 

 

Smith, 39, is a three-year professional, who has stoppage wins over two undefeated foes Mike Marshall and Darnell Pierce.

 

 

 

Smith is coming off a 4-round split decision loss to perennial spoiler Lamont Capers on November 30, 2017 in Oxon Hill, Maryland.

 

 

 

The 37 year-old Sanchez is a 10 year professional who has knockout wins over undefeated Venroy July (13-0-2) and in his last bout when he stopped Khalib Whitmore (6-1) on August 11, 2017 in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

In an eight-round welterweight fight, Craig Callaghan (17-1, 7 KOs) of Houston, TX will fight Cesar Soriano Berumen (28-37-2, 17 KOs) of Iztacalco, MX.

 

 

 

In six-rounds bouts:

 

 

 

Juan Sanchez (5-0, 2 KOs) of Allentown, PA takes on Vincent Jennings (5-4, 4 KOs) of Grand Rapids, MI in a featherweight bout.

 

 

 

In a battle of undefeated welterweights, Jesus Perez (3-0, 1 KO) of Reading, PA squares off against Anthony Sonnier (3-0, 2 KOs) of Seattle, WA

 

 

 

In four-round bouts:

 

 

 

Denis Okoth (2-0-1) of Siaya, KEN fights Greg Jackson (8-5, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia in a welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Martino Jules (3-0) of Allentown, PA will take on Phillip Davis (1-1-1) of Worcester, MA in a featherweight bout.

 

 

 

James Robinson (4-9-4, 1 KO) of York, PA will look to upend Laured Stewart (3-0, 1 KO) of Brooklyn, NY in a junior middleweight bout.

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at

 

 

$50, $75 and $100, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.
boxing

Al “Ice” Cole & “Baby” Joe Mesi Honored to be inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame

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Sunday, April 29, Induction Dinner

         

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

NEW YORK (April 9, 2018) – Former world cruiserweight champion Al “Ice” Cole and undefeated, No.; 1 heavyweight contender “Baby” Joe Mesi are both extremely honored and grateful to be inducted, along with 21 others in the Class of 2018, into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF).

 

 

 

The seventh annual NYSBHOF induction dinner will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 29, once again at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

 

 

Cole (35-16-3, 16 KOs), who is from Rockland County, fought professional between 1989 and 2011, won his first 15 and 27 of his initial 28 pro fights. He captured the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Cruiserweight World Championship in 1992, when he won a 12-round unanimous decision over James Warring (14-1). Cole made four successful world title defenses before moving up to heavyweight.

 

 

 

 

 

“I knew I’d get in one day and I’m honored to be inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame, especially with this class because I know a few other fighters going in like Lou Del Valle and Terrance Alli.” Cole said. “I was known as a crowd-pleasing, exciting fighter, and people who watched me always knew I’d be in a good fight with good exchanges. I did fight in the shadows of (Mike) Tyson and Roy (Jones. Jr.).

 

 

 

“I fought in the Army with Ray Mercer, stung Evander Holyfield in sparring. My best fight, though, hurt me the most. I was so sharp against a fighter from Kronk Gym, Vincent Boulware, in my third world title defense that year (1993). Boulware had won six of his last seven fights with four knockouts and I was just becoming a decent name, If I beat him, I was supposed to fight Tommy Hearns or Iran Barkley, who were both moving up to cruiserweight. I had the best fight of my career, but I couldn’t get any of the other world cruiserweight champs to fight me. I only had four fights in the next three years. I moved up to heavyweight because the same guys who I beat when they were my mandatory challenger (Uriah Grant & Nate Miller) worked their way back into the mandatory position.”

 

 

 

Cole grew up in Atlantic City, where he fought 18 times, and he got to know a casino owner, Donald Trump. “We hung out,” Cole remembered. “Trump invited me to some of his private parties. I never thought he’d be president!”.

 

 

 

Mesi (36-0, 29 KOs) was so popular in Buffalo, he was considered the upstate New York city’s third sports franchise (Bills and Sabres). A top American amateur, “Baby Joe” fought professionally between 1997 and 2007, racking up 36 victories without a defeat, yet he never to a world title shot due to a medical issue. Ranked as high at No. 1 by the World Boxing Council (WBC) Mesi was suspended by the Nevada Commission, after he defeated former world champion Vassily Jirov by way of a 10-round unanimous decision, due to a head injury (brain bleeds).

 

 

 

Mesi was virtually blacklisted in boxing, losing two full years in the ring, while he pursued legal action to get re-licensed, which he eventually was but only by a few commissions. Joe fought seven times after being re-licensed, but he was unfortunately limited in terms of where he could fight, and he never regained the lofty status he had once held.   In addition to Jirov, Mesi defeated notables such as Monte Barrett, DeVarryl Williamson and Jorge Luis Gonzalez.

 

 

 

“This is a great time for me,” Mesi commented about his upcoming induction. “I’m humbled and honored to be going into the same Hall of Fame with the great names that are already there. I’m soaking it all in right now.

 

 

 

“I’ve been somewhat removed from boxing, but just the business end. I’m still a big boxing fan and follow the sport. Today, I’m married with three kids and sell medical devices for a living. Boxing is still my passion, my love, and since I got the call (that he’s going in the NYSBHOF), I’ve been thinking about all the memories. I’d like to do some more TV announcing in boxing and, maybe someday, get into promoting. I’m really looking forward to the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame induction ceremony.”

 

 

 

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), and (Brooklyn) world lightweight title challenger Terrence Alli (52-15-2, 21 KOs).

 

 

 

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 Bob 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, and Neil 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.

 

 

 

 

Tickets are 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. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF/Ring 8 president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 ordepcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $80.00 to $200.00, by contacting Duffy. Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

boxing, Granite Chin

“Fight Night at The Zone” RESULTS from Derry, NH

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stops Larry Smith in 5

 

 

 

Undefeated New England prospects

Richard Rivera & Irvin Gonzalez

Register sensational 1st round knockouts

           

 

 

“Fight Night at The Zone”

OFFICIAL RESULTS

 

 

 

 

DERRY, N.H. (April 8, 2018) — The official weigh in was held today for tomorrow (Saturday) evening’s “Fight Night at the Zone,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions, at The Sportszone in Derry, New Hampshire.

 

 

 

 

In the main event, Dorchester, MA junior middleweight Gabriel Duluc (12-3, 3 KOs) used a vicious body attack to stop veteran Texas fighter Larry “Slomoshun” Smith in the fifth round. A right to the liver put Smith down, but he beat the referee Mike Ryan‘s count. Smith was unable to recover as he was pinned on the ropes by Duluc, who reeled off a dozen unanswered punches, forcing referee Ryan to end the fight.

 

 

 

 

New England’s hardest hitter is unquestionably UBF N.E. light heavyweight champion Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (7-0, 6 KOs), who knocked out cruiserweight Randy “The Rattler” Campbell (3-19, 2 KOs) with the first punch in their non-title fight, a lethal right that broke Campbell’s lower right ankle.

 

 

 

 

Flashy Worcester, MA prospect Irvin Gonzalez (9-0, 8 KOs) overwhelmed his Mexican opponent, junior welterweight Francisco “El Mono” Medel (12-13, 8 KOs), blasting him from every angle en route to a first-round technical knockout, in which Medal went to the canvas twice.

 

 

 

 

New England cruiserweight champion Chris Traietti (26-4, 21 KOs), also the co-promoter, pounded “Jammin” James Morrow (12-23-3, 5 KOs) from pillar to post until referee Leo Gerstel halted the action in their non-title fight for a third-round technical knockout.

 

 

 

 

Irish junior welterweight Paddy McGee, fighting out of Dorchester, MA, landed only two punches in his pro debut, both flooring Bardraiel Smith (0-4), for a quick first-round knockout.

 

 

 

 

Stoughton, MA welterweight Travis “The Outlaw” Demko (6-1, 1 KO) outclassed Paul DeSouza (0-11), of Somerville, pitching a six-round shutout decision.

 

 

 

 

With former world champion Wilfredo, Vasquez, Jr. supporting him, Springfield, MA welterweight Anthony Velasquez (2-0, 2 KOs) needed only 43 seconds to finish off Shavonte Dixon (0-3).

 

 

 

 

Danbury, CT junior welterweight Omar “The Beast” Bordoy, Jr. (5-0, 1 KO) remained undefeated, taking a four-round unanimous decision from a game Carlos Galindo (0-2).

 

 

 

 

Local favorite, Ricky Ford (2-1-1), fighting out Claremont, NH, dropped Woburn, MA junior middleweight Jaco Matsos (0-2) twice before the fight was stopped by referee Mike Ryan.

 

 

 

 

New Jersey super middleweight Chris “Sandman” Thomas improved his pro record to 8-0-1 (5 KOs), when John Hantzopoulos (0-2) failed to answer the bell for the third round.

 

 

 

 

Complete results below:

 

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

 

 

MAIN EVENT – JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Gabriel Duluc (12-3, 3 KOs), Dorchester, MA
WTKO5 (1:40)
Larry Smith (10-35-1, 7 KOs), Dallas, TX

 

 

 

CO-FEATURE – CRUISERWEIGHTS
Richard Rivera (7-0, 6 KOs), Hartford, CT
WKO1 (0:37)
Randy Campbell (3-19, 2 KOs), Bowerston, OH

 

 

 

HEAVYWEIGHTS
Chris Traietti (26-4, 21 KOs), Quincy, MA
WTKO3 (0:53)James Morrow (12-23-3, 5 KOs), Lafayette, IN.

 

 

 

SUPER MIDDEWEIGHTS

Chris Thomas (8-0-1, 5 KOs), Beechwood, NJ

WTKO2 (3:00)

John Hantzopoulos (0-2), Lynn, MA

 

 

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Ricky Ford (2-1-1, 1 KO), Claremont, NH

WTKO1 (1:47)

Jaco Matos (0-2), Woburn, MA

 

 

 

WELTERWEIGHTS
Travis Demko (6-1, 1 KO), Stoughton, MA.
WDEC6 (60-54, 60-54, 60-54)
Paul DeSouza (0-11), Somerville, MA

 

 

 

Anthony Velasquez (2-0, 2 KOs), Springfield, MA
WTKO (0:43)
Shavonte Dixon (0-3), Philadelphia, PA

 

 

 

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS
Irvin Gonzalez (9-0, 8 KOs), Worcester, MA
WTKO1 (1:57)
Francisco Medel (12-13, 8 KOs), Sonora, Mexico

 

 

 

Paddy McGee (1-0, 1 KO), Dorchester, MA
WTKO1 (1:12)

Bardraiel Smith (0-4), Philadelphia, PA

 

 

 

Omar Bordoy, Jr. (5-0, 1 KO), Danbury, CT
WDEC4 (40-35, 40-35, 40-36)
Carlos Galindo (0-2), Woburn, MA

 

 

 

 

Sponsors included Betley Chevrolet, Tobin Scientific, Matrix Aerospace, TownPlace Suites, Manchester Monarchs and Cars.com

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

 

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JARRETT HURD UNIFIES THE 154-POUND DIVISION WITH SPLIT DECISION OVER ERISLANDY LARA IN ACTION PACKED FIGHT SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO IN LAS VEGAS

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James DeGale Earns Back IBF Super Middleweight World Championship With Unanimous Decision In Rematch With Caleb Truax

 

 

 

Julian Williams Wins IBF 154-Pound Eliminator with Decision Over Nathaniel Gallimore In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®Opener

 

 

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

 

LAS VEGAS (April 7, 2018) – Jarrett Hurd unified the 154-pound division with a 12-round split-decision victory over Erislandy Lara in an all-action fight Saturday on SHOWTIME before a sold-out crowd of 2,579 at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

 

 

 

 

Hurd (22-0, 15 KOs), who entered as IBF Champion, dethroned WBA Champion in just the seventh unification in division history.  The difference in the Fight of the Year candidate was a short left hook that floored Lara in the final minute of the fight.  Had the 27-year-old Hurd not scored the knockdown, the fight would have been ruled a majority draw.

 

 

 

 

“It was a tough one, but I went out there and did exactly what I said I was going to do – fight all 12 rounds and get the victory,” Hurd said.  “I didn’t feel like that (I needed the knockdown). I feel like I was in control the whole fight, applying the pressure.

 

 

 

 

“I don’t think it had anything to do with age.  I think it was me and the game plan we had to apply the pressure.”

 

 

 

 

Following the thrilling bout, SHOWTIME Sports reporter Jim Gray asked Hurd if he’d like to face WBC 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo, who was ringside, to further unify the division.

 

 

 

 

“’Swift’ isn’t ducking anyone,” Hurd responded.  “I’m No. 1 now.  We’re calling the shots.”

 

 

 

 

Hurd applied relentless pressure from the opening round, pressing forward against the crafty southpaw.  He pounded the body, yet often neglected defense and ate punishing counter shots for 11 rounds.  But the difference for Lara (25-3-2, 14 KOs), who was making the seventh defense of his title, was the brutal 12th round.  With blood seeping from a swollen right eye, Hurd connected on a short left hook that floored Lara for the first time in nearly five years.

 

 

 

 

“Besides the last round, I thought I was winning this fight easily,” Lara said.  “That’s not to decide the fight.  I was winning the fight.  One punch in a fight doesn’t determine the fight.

 

 

 

 

“It was a great fight for the fans. I stood there, fought and it was fun. I thought I clearly won the fight. Once again a decision goes against me, but h​ey we just have to do the rematch.”

 

 

 

 

Entering the fight, Charlo was the consensus No. 1 fighter at 154-pounds.  He stated his case for a chance to unify against Hurd.

 

 

 

 

“I’m down.  Let’s go.  We want that work,” Charlo told SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING host Brian Custer.  “I feel Hurd only took the fight with Lara because he realized the harder fight is with Jermell Charlo.

 

 

 

 

“We’ve been there before with Lara.  I know what he possesses.  Hurd has to get his defense together because he cannot get hit like that by me.   Lara doesn’t move like he used to.  If he moves like he used to he wins that fight.”

 

James DeGale earned back the IBF Super Middleweight World Championship with a unanimous decision in a rematch with Caleb Truax, taking back the title he lost last December in the near-universal upset of the year.

 

 

 

 

The 12-round championship affair was scored 117-110 and 114-113 twice.  DeGale, who was deducted a point in the 10th for pushing, won the championship rounds – 11 and 12 – on all three judges’ scorecards to win the decision.

 

 

 

 

“Two-time world champion.  It feels great,” DeGale said.  “But full credit to Caleb – he shows he can mix it with the top fighters.

 

 

 

 

“I’m just happy that I’m a two time world champion and I got my IBF world title back.  I’m back, Team Chunky, we’re back.  Two-and-a-half years I had it and I lost it to Caleb.  He embarrassed me, but we’re back.”

 

 

 

 

DeGale (24-2-1, 14 KOs) overcame a massive cut from an accidental head butt in the third, which was mistakenly ruled as the result of a punch from referee Robert Byrd.

 

 

 

 

“I couldn’t see from my right eye, DeGale said.  “I like Robert Byrd (referee), but today he was a bit wrong.  I couldn’t see.  But I’m just glad I got through it.  I showed some heart.  In my last fight, I was like a weak little kid.”

 

 

 

 

DeGale connected on 37 percent of his power shots compared to 28 percent for Truax.  He now returns to London a world champion with some massive potential fights in the future.

 

 

 

 

“I want to be busy,” DeGale said.  “I have a couple years left in this sport.”

 

 

 

 

Truax (29-4-2, 18 KOs), who fought for the first time as a world champion, was disappointed and advocated for a rematch after the scores were announced.

 

 

 

 

“I thought I did enough to win the fight, but I also thought I was pretty flat and didn’t get my shots off like I wanted,” Truax said.  “I was just a little bit flat.  I felt really good coming in but I just couldn’t get my shots off like the last fight.  He never hurt me, but it is what it is.

 

 

 

 

“I gave him a rematch straight away so why not do it again.”

 

 

 

 

In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader, Julian Williams scored a career-best win, defeating Nathaniel Gallimore via majority decision in an IBF Junior Middleweight World Title eliminator.  Williams, who edge Gallimore 116-112, 117-110, 114-114, is now in position to challenge Jarrett Hurd.

 

 

 

 

Williams (25-1-1, 15 KOs) set the pace with a strong left jab in the opening rounds of the fight, keeping Gallimore at bay and the action on the outside.  That changed around the fifth round as Williams abandoned the jab and the fight moved to the inside.  Williams had his best round in the 11th, connecting on a massive left hand that set up a barrage of combos that nearly had Gallimore out on his feet.  Gallimore (20-2-1, 17 KOs) survived the round, and Williams wasn’t able the finish him in the 12th, but it was clear Williams deserved the decision.

 

 

 

 

“I wasn’t surprised a judge had a draw,” Williams said.  “Sometimes when you’re fighting real close like that, it is hard for judges to score.  I knew I won. Once I heard 116-112 and 117-111, I knew I won because I knew he didn’t win eight rounds.

 

 

 

 

“He is a strong fighter, but I knew he was going to do what he did. Start strong early, but I knew he wasn’t strong after six rounds.

 

 

 

 

“The hits to the body was all in the game plan. You have to go to the body in a 12 round fight.”

 

 

 

 

Williams connected on 50 percent of his power shots and landed 37 percent of his total shots.

 

 

 

 

 

“I didn’t really think I won the fight,” Gallimore admitted.  “I just let too many early rounds go.  I just gave him too many rounds.  I had him hurt a couple of times, but he was tough. I should have done more combinations. I will look at the fight and review it, and will make adjustments.”

 

 

 

 

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will replay on Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

 

# # #

 

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxingand  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing

Lenin Castillo grabs WBO Gold in Ponce, Puerto Rico

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Ponce, Puerto Rico – Former Dominican Olympian Lenin Castillo (18-1-1, 13 KO’s) won the WBO/NABO vacant light heavyweight title in impressive fashion. Castillo defeated Aaron “Homicide” Mitchell (27-3-1, 21 KO’s) of Florida by way of technical knockout in the 10th and final round.

 

 

 

 

As a result of the victory, Castillo will now be ranked among the best 175 pound fighters in the WBO.

 

 

 

 

The fight was televised by DIRECTV PR as part of a card promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions at the Complejo Ferial, Ponce, PR.

 

 

 

 

“I am very grateful to my manager Raúl Pastrana from Spartan Boxing Club, Miguel Cotto Promotions and the WBO for making this fight possible with an important title at stake that will place me among the best fighters of my weight,” said Castillo, “This victory is for my Dominican people, my dad, my mom and also for the Puerto Ricans who made me feel at home since I arrived on the island for the fight”.

 

 

 

 

“I prepared myself to the max and these are the results of working hard in the gym. Since I landed a good shot at Mitchell, he decided to survive the whole fight and did not let me use everything I had saved for him. But the important thing was that we won all the rounds without losing concentration”, expressed Castillo, who was training in Florida under the supervision of Maury Ramos of KMJ with the assistance of Chiro Pérez from 5th St Gym.