Tag Archives: boxing

Petr Petrov to host Q and A, TOMORROW at 12 PMnoon Eastern time live on Twitter

WBO World Lightweight Championship Bout streamed LIVE exclusively in the United States on Twitter this Saturday

 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WBO number-two ranked lightweight in the world, Petr Petrov will be taking questions from boxing fans live on @BannerBoxing at 12 PM Eastern time on Friday.  Petrov will take on undefeated WBO world Lightweight champion Terry Flanagan on Saturday in a fight that can be streamed exclusively in the United States on Twitter.
Fans can ask Petrov questions on @BannerBoxing by using any of the following hashtags:
#Petrov
#Boxing
#AndNew
#FlanaganPetrov
#BannerPromotions

The live stream of Saturday’s Championship fight will be available for free to logged-in and logged-out users exclusively on Twitter and connected devices in the United States. Access to the live stream will be available Saturday night at boxing.twitter.com and on @BannerBoxing. Follow at @BannerBoxing to find out the exact timing of the live stream in the coming days.

Terry Flanagan – Petr Petrov Press Conference Photos

WBO World Lightweight Championship Bout LIVE on Twitter this Saturday

Below are images from Thursday’s Press conference featuring WBO Lightweight world champion Terry Flanagan and number-2 contender Petr Petrov.  Flanagan and Petrov will meet this Saturday, and the fight will be streamed in the United States Live on Twitter.

The live stream of Saturday’s Championship fight will be available for free to logged-in and logged-out users exclusively on Twitter and connected devices in the United States. Access to the live stream will be available Saturday night at boxing.twitter.com and on @BannerBoxing. Follow at @BannerBoxing to find out the exact timing of the live stream in the coming days.
(Click Pictures to enlarge)

Photos by Kyte Monroe

Ricky Burns meets Julius Indongo in an IBF/WBA 140 pound unification bout live on Saturday, April 15th, live on AWE & www.klowdtv.com 

 

SAN DIEGO, CALIF. – April 5, 2017 – Ricky Burns and Julius Indongo will clash in a bout that will unify the WBA and IBF 140-pound world titles. The match-up takes place on Saturday, April 15th and will be featured live and exclusively on AWE, A Wealth of Entertainment and www.klowdtv.com in the United States.

Burns will have the home fan advantage. The bout originates from the SSE Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland. The undercard fights begin at 2:30 PM EST / 11:20 AM PT.

“We’re thrilled to bring this very exciting world unification fight to our fans,” stated Robert Herring, CEO of AWE.

Burns of Coatsbridge, Scotland has been a world champion in three weight-classes, and has been competing in world title bouts for seven years.

The 33 year-old has a record of 41-5-1 with 14 knockouts. He has taken part in 12 world title bouts with a record of 10-1-1 in those contests.

Burns has wins over Colin Bain (8-0), Graham Earl (22-0), Haider Ali (4-1), Osumanu Akaba (21-4-1), Yakuba Amidu (16-1-1), Michael Gomes (38-9) and Kevin O’Hara (16-4).

On September 4, 2010, Burns won the WBO Super Featherweight title with a 12 round unanimous decision over Michael Katsidis (28-4). He won the full title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Paulus Moses (28-1). Burns defended that title 3 times with wins over Kevin Mitchell (33-1) & Jose Gonzalez (22-0) and a draw with Raymundo Beltran (28-6), before dropping his title to Terence Crawford.

Burns became a 3-division champion with an 8th round stoppage over Michele Di Rocco on May 28, 2016. He has made one defense, which came on October 7th with a unanimous decision over Kiryl Relikh.

“When Julius Indongo knocked out Eduard Troyanovsky he was immediately an opponent I was interested in,” says Burns. “Indongo can clearly punch and that’s an impressive way to win a World title, especially in Russia. It was some shot he hit Troyanovsky with.

“It’s a huge fight in the division and the kind of fights I need to be involved in at this stage of my career. There were other names talked about but I wanted the toughest, most dangerous fight out there. Indongo with his two belts was that man.

“He is a big tall, rangy, southpaw but bring it on – I have no fear of anyone and it is only the massive fights for me now.

“Fighting in Glasgow is special for me, the crowd at the SSE Hydro has been electric the last two occasions and I expect it to be no different this time round.”

Indongo of Windhoek, Namibia has a perfect mark of 20-0 with 11 knockouts.

The 34 year-old is an eight-year professional, who was the WBO African Super Lightweight champion as he had wins over Zolani Marali (4-5), Ibrahim Class (12-1) and Ishmael Kuchocha (12-3).

On December 3, 2016, Indongo scored one of the biggest upsets of the year, when he scored a stunning and explosive 40 second knockout over classy and undefeated IBF Champion Eduard Troyanovsky (25-0) in the former champion’s backyard of Moscow, Russia.

Indongo added: “It’s an absolute honor for me to fight Ricky, who I regard as an accomplished champion. I respect what he has achieved so far but I’m going to Scotland to rob him of his belt. I know it won’t be easy but I’m comforted by the fact that I have a good team and passionate Namibian fans, and I have every intention of making them smile and unifying the division on April 15.”

(AWE’s promo for the fight may be downloaded at: https://vimeo.com/210975681)

About AWE LIVE BOXING

AWE LIVE Boxing features live world title championship and elimination bouts showcasing today’s most exciting fighters. Since the inception of AWE’s live boxing events in 2011, AWE has featured over 50 world title fights.

AWE has brought boxing fans some of the most exciting and controversial bouts, including the matchup of Ricky Burns against Ray Beltran for the world title. AWE featured live and exclusively the crowning of American Terence Crawford over Ricky Burns. AWE fans have witnessed the explosive power of undefeated heavyweight Tyson Fury multiple times on the network, including Fury’s victory over Kevin Johnson.

In 2017, AWE was the exclusive United States television provider of the historic matchup between legendary British heavyweight David Haye and Tony Bellew.

About AWE – A Wealth of Entertainment

A Wealth of Entertainment (“AWE”) features a wide range of lifestyles and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is available on over a hundred cable systems, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 147 and 1147 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 169 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.

Shawn Porter Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Former World Champion Faces Andre Berto in Welterweight World Title Eliminator Saturday, April 22 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Live on SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Greene/
Premier Boxing Champions
 
LAS VEGAS (April 5, 2017) – Former world champion Shawn Porter hosted a media workout in Las Vegas Wednesday as he prepares for his welterweight world title eliminator showdown against Andre Berto that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions event Saturday, April 22 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME.
Televised coverage of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features unbeaten super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo defending against top contender Charles Hatley.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what Porter and his father and trainer, Kenny Porter, had to say Wednesday from the Porter Hy-Performance Center:
SHAWN PORTER
“Every time I see this fight in my head, I feel good about it. I feel like my speed and my boxing ability is going to take care of the first half of this fight. Once we get going and establish the pace of the fight, which is what we’re going to do, after that, we’ll start working in our feints, our head movement, it’s gonna be beautiful. I know that much.
“I’ve seen him in fights where he goes past the fifth and sixth round, and things start to fall apart for him. So if we can get to his body early, and you see everything we do here in the facility, these guys work me almost to death. We’re ready for the 12 rounds plus. We’re always ready to take more out of our guy’s tank and have a lot more at the end.
“I really think there’s an understanding we both have. He tells me what to do and I listen. Like he always says, as long as I listen, everything will play out the way it’s supposed to. We have that one understanding, and the rest just carries itself.
“I’ve seen myself hurting him to the body, but haven’t seen myself stopping him. I can see him going down, but I can’t see him not getting up. Maybe that’s too much respect for him, but I know in the moment, in the fight, I’m going after this dude. I feel like right now, he has the heart of a lion. He’s Haitian, he carries that blood with him, he’s proud of it and I respect that, so I’m ready for a full fight.
“I think my coaches keep me at the peak. My dad keeps me where I need to be. A big part of what we work on is the focus and mentality approaching the fight, as well. I feel like where other guys lack, I have it all. We’re in better condition than most guys. And we work on the mental fortitude just as much as we do on the physical.
“I think when opportunities like this come up, that’s when I really get going. For me, there’s nothing better than fight night. Everything leading up to it is just part of the process. I can tell you that right now, we’re talking the fight, I’m excited and I want it.”
KENNY PORTER, Shawn’s Father & Trainer
“I think we got the right sparring partners. We’ve had Brandon Adams, who is like a bigger version of Shawn, in here. He does a good job of emulating Berto. We also now have Hank Lundy in. Lundy is a guy that’s bringing speed, quickness, power and an attitude every time they spar. He’s saying things to Shawn, popping off at Shawn, and if Shawn lands a good punch on him, he’s coming right back. And we’ve been using Mickey Bey on the back end of our sparring sessions. It’s working out pretty good. We’re just looking to push Shawn really hard.
“We’re never satisfied about anything. My thing is more than anything else, is we’re asking him to do the things we’ve worked and practiced and put it all together so we can take that to the next fight and the next camp instead of starting over and restarting. It’s coming together, and we’re liking what we’re seeing. Never satisfied, but I would like to see him out-box him, out-punch him, out-hustle him, then I would like to see him punish him. That would be the ultimate scenario. You do all these things we worked on, then you punish him.”
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ABOUT BERTO vs. PORTER                     
Andre Berto vs. Shawn Porter is a WBC welterweight world title eliminator between former 147-pound world champions. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday April 22 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event, undefeated super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo battles top rated challenger Charles Hatley, with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @AndreBerto, @ShowtimeShawnP, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes  This Sunday, April 9 From The Novo at L.A. Live in  Downtown Los Angeles & Live on FS1 & FOX Deportes

Josesito Lopez, Alejandro Luna, Misael Rodriguez & 
Maricela Cornejo Media Workout Quotes & Photos
 
 
 
Click HERE for Photos from Arnold Turner
 
LOS ANGELES (April 5, 2017) – Southern California-based fighters Josesito LopezAlejandro Luna, Misael Rodriguez and Maricela Cornejo hosted a media workout at the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy in Riverside Wednesday ahead of their bouts this Sunday, April 9 from the Novo at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles.
Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes action is headlined by the former title challenger Lopez taking on Mexico’s Saul Corral in a welterweight matchup. Televised coverage begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT and features the unbeaten Luna facing former title challenger Andrey Klimov and the pro debut of 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports, are priced at $30 general admission, $60 balcony reserved, $100 VIP balcony reserved and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased through AXS.com HERE.
The 2016 Mexican Olympian and bronze medalist Rodriguez and the former title challengerCornejo will both enter the ring in separate undercard attractions.
Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday in front of over 100 attendees including media, civic leaders and boxing fans from the community
JOSESITO LOPEZ
“First thing is that I can’t look past my opponent on Sunday night. If all goes well, I know that bigger things are coming. I want to give fans fights that they’ll remember for years to come. I’m that guy who wants to make great fights.
“I know that I’m facing a tough fighter from Mexico. I always know that these guys come with a real hunger to win. I’ve prepared very well and I’m ready to put on a show Sundaynight.
“I’ve taken advantage of opportunities given to me in the past and I’m looking to take advantage of every one I get. I’m going to show off my abilities on Sunday.
“I’m in a good state of mind right now. I’ve been working for several months and I really feel 100 percent physically.
“This is going to be a good fight. He’s going to come with the will to win. I’ll be smart and use my abilities. I’ve been working on some new things and Sunday will be a glimpse of what’s left to come.
“It’s an honor for me to be the main event on a card with so many great young fighters. I remember that moment many years ago. These fighters are the future. This is just the beginning. I’m the present right now and I’m going to show that on Sunday.”
ALEJANDRO LUNA
“More than anything I think that the fans can expect fireworks. I’m fighting a crafty veteran guy in Klimov who has fought the best. He’s fought guys like Terrence Crawford and Jose Pedraza. Our styles are meant for each other and I think they’re going to clash. The fans are going to be the real winners.
“I say yes to every challenge they put in front of me. This is a big test. I feel confident in my training and I believe I can get past Klimov. I think getting this win shows that I’m ready to fight any champion in the lightweight division.
“I train 100 percent every time. I had a smooth camp and I’m ready to go. My work ethic is my secret weapon. I’m a believer that fights are won in the gym.
“I fight for the people every time I’m in the ring. They’re paying money to see a great fight and I want them to get their money’s worth.
“I’ve been under the radar but I think that in 2017 I’m going to put myself in the world title picture. I give it my all in the ring.”
MISAEL RODRIGUEZ
“I’m excited because I have a great team behind me with Richard Schaefer, Abner Mares and Robert Garcia. I feel strong and ready for this fight.
“I’m so happy to be fighting in Los Angeles, because it’s like a second Mexico. I hope the fans all come out to see me because I’m going to work hard to be the next Mexican superstar.
“I’m going to keep working and getting stronger and better. I have to be consistent and have good training camps so I can reach my goals.
“Training with Robert Garcia has been great. He has had a lot of champions and I hope that I will be next. Him and his whole family are good people and they’ve treated me like family. I’ve learned a lot already.
“I have to be smart in the ring. I’m a Mexican fighter in my heart and I always will be. But I have to be smart and be ready for anything in the ring.”
MARICELA CORNEJO
“Joel Diaz has helped me so much with the mental side of the game. The way he speaks so passionately about the sport, he transfers that to me. I feel that belief and trust. He gives me the right words to keep me going and unleash anything I was holding back.
“I work really hard at this sport. People didn’t see me when I was coming up, but It’s been a real journey. I’ve never backed down from anything. I’m proud to be a female fighter in the sport right now. Female athletes are getting more attention across the world than they ever have.
“Boxing means a lot to me. I’ve overcome a lot of obstacles. Getting in the ring and getting hit in the face is a lot easier than what I’ve had to go through. I love boxing because it’s all about going for the win no matter what is thrown in front of you.”
RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports
“All of these young fighters we’re letting loose on Sunday are coming to fight. This won’t be ‘Dancing with the Stars’, they will come to engage and destroy. These guys all have advanced skills and I look forward to seeing them in the ring.
“Misael Rodriguez is a very charismatic person. He’s an entertainer and a fighter. With Abner behind him as a manager and Robert Garcia as a trainer, this is a kid who wants to surround himself with the best. Watching his career will be very exciting.
“Josesito had his biggest win, over Victor Ortiz, right across the street at Staples Center and he is ready for the next step in his career in a stacked welterweight division. I also believe that Alejandro Luna is on the cusp of being in world title contention if he can get through Klimov on Sunday. In addition, you have one of the most charismatic female stars in Maricela Cornejo going along with an incredible group of young talent making their debutson Sunday.
“With this new young class of fighters coming out of Southern California combined with world champions like Leo Santa Cruz, Mikey Garcia and Abner Mares, Los Angeles is on its way to being the fight capital of the world again.
“I’ve never done an event on a Sunday and it definitely doesn’t happen very often. I want to challenge the status quo and try different things. I am equally excited about this Sunday card as I have been for any card I’ve promoted because of all the great young talent.”
ABNER MARES, Rodriguez’s Manager
“I’m nervous and excited to see Misael in the ring on Sunday. He’s a fighter with a lot of heart and the desire to become a world champion just like I was coming out of the Olympics.
“Our goal is to have Misael fight six times this year. We’re going to go step-by-step to make him a champion.
“Misael is the future. He brings excitement and he’s likeable. He’s in a great weight class and the team he has behind him will get him to where he needs to go.
“Seeing Misael grow from the manager’s side will be as exciting if not more than my own progression. I can’t wait to take him to a world championship.”
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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.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Ringstar, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/RingstarSports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

‘Premier Boxing Champions’ Series Springs Forward With Loaded Slate of Telecasts

 
Schedule Includes Five Shows In April
Showcasing Champions, Contenders &
Top Prospects in Competitive Matches
LAS VEGAS (April 5, 2017) – The Premier Boxing Champions series rolled into April with a hotly contested match between Edner Cherry and Omar Douglas on FS1 “TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS” last night and will continue with an outstanding slate of shows, featuring matches in some of the deepest divisions in boxing.
“Premier Boxing Champions will present a busy schedule in April, involving prospects, rising stars and established champions,” said Tim Smith, Vice President of Communications for Premier Boxing Champions. “It’s the kind of schedule that contains matches for every type of boxing fan.”
The impressive run started with Cherry besting Douglas in a close and competitive super featherweight clash from Sands Bethlehem Events Center in Bethlehem, Pa., on “TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS “on FS1 and FOX Deportes last night.
Next up, former title challenger Josesito Lopez will meet Mexico’s Saul Corral in the main event on FS1 and FOX Deportes from the Novo at L.A. Live in Los Angeles at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT on Sunday, April 9. Unbeaten lightweight contender Alejandro Luna will battle former title contender Andrey Klimov in a 10-round bout in the co-feature. Also, 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas will make his pro debut in a six round super featherweight match.
A welterweight world title eliminator between former champions Andre Berto and Shawn Porter will highlight an action-packed PBC card on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on Saturday, April 22. Undefeated 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo will defend his title against top contender Charles Hatley in the co-feature. Also in action is heavyweight title contender Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz taking on rugged veteran Derric Rossy.
Exciting contenders Oscar Molina and Levan Ghvamichava will square-off in the main event, while rising star Brandon Figueroa also enters the ring, in an action-packed “TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS” show on FS1 and FOX Deportes at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on April 25.
Beibut Shumenov defends his cruiserweight title against Yunier Dorticos while Carlos Zambrano will battle Claudio Marrero in a featherweight showdown on FS1 and FOX Deportes at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas on Saturday, April 29.
The PBC schedule for May promises to be just as jam-packed with exciting matches. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements.
About Premier Boxing Champions
Premier Boxing Champions is a live boxing series created for TV and cable by Haymon Sports, LLC. The series features the greatest array of international boxing talent in all weight divisions, with fighters representing over 10 countries including the United States and Mexico. From former Olympians to Champions of all nationalities, the series can be seen on over 10 networks in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the U.K.

Banner Promotions Partners with Twitter to stream WBO Lightweight World Championship Bout  

Banner Promotions is pleased to announce that it will live-stream the WBO Lightweight world championship bout between undefeated champion Terry Flanagan and number-two contender Petr Petrov live exclusively on Twitter in the United States this Saturday.

The live stream of Saturday’s Championship fight will be available for free to logged-in and logged-out users exclusively on Twitter and connected devices in the United States. Access to the live stream will be available Saturday night at boxing.twitter.com and on @BannerBoxing. Follow at @BannerBoxing to find out the exact timing of the live stream in the coming days.
“I am very excited about the opportunity to bring the WBO Lightweight World Championship exclusively to Twitter in the United States on April 8th ,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.  “This is a great opportunity to partner with Twitter on this unique medium, in order to reach a broader fan base and to reach potential new fans of boxing.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Banner Promotions to bring more live boxing to Twitter,” said Anthony Noto, COO at Twitter. “Our passionate boxing fans can view the live stream of the WBO Lightweight World Championship and join the live conversation all on Twitter.”

Saturday’s title bout features the undefeated Flanagan, who will be attempting to make the 5th defense of the title that he won on July 11th, 2015 with a 2nd round stoppage over Jose Zepeda.  Flanagan, 27 years-old, has made defenses of former world champion Mzonke Fana as well as his last bout when he stopped Orlando Cruz in eight-rounds on November 26th.

Petrov of Madrid, Spain has a record of 38-4-2 with 19 knockouts, and has won six straight bouts.  The 2014 Boxcino Lightweight champion has victories over undefeated Fedor Papazov (14-0), Chris Rudd (13-1), former world champion Gamaliel Diaz, and Marvin Quintero (28-6). In his last bout, he stopped Michael Perez in six rounds on September 30th.

Dib-Evans showdown; 2016 US Olympian Conwell pro debut tops Buffalo Run fight card April 21

Miami, OK (April 5, 2017) – World-ranked junior lightweight Billel “Babyface” Dib and former WBC Youth titlist Yuandale “Money Shot” Evans will square off in an important ten round bout Friday, April 21 at the Buffalo Run Casino In Miami, OK.
Promoted by Holden Productions and DiBella Entertainment, the card also features the highly-anticipated pro debut of 2016 US Olympian Charles Conwell. Tickets are on sale now at the Buffalo Run Box Office or by logging onto Stubwire.com/event/fourstatefranchiseboxing/buffaloruncasino/miami/14694.
Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Dib has an outstanding 21-1 record with 10 victories by knockout. Currently ranked #7 by the WBO and #13 by the WBA, Dib impressed in his debut at the Buffalo Run Casino last December, outpointing Colombian contender Carlos Padilla over eight rounds. A victory on the 21st will move him closer to fighting for a world title.
Living and fighting out of Cleveland, OH, Evans is 18-1 with 14 KO’s. He has eight first round knockouts and captured the WBC Youth title via fifth round KO of Ruslan Berchuk in his native Russia. Defeating the highly-regarded Dib would put Evans in the picture at 130 pounds.
Middleweight Charles Conwell fights for the first time as a pro against an opponent to be named in the four round co-feature. The 19-year-old represented the United States in Rio at the 2016 US Olympics and is now a member of Holden Productions’ “Four State Franchise” team. Named Ohio’s Amateur Athlete of the Year for his remarkable 2016, Conwell has a fan-friendly style that is expected to quickly make him a crowd favorite.
We are pleased not only for Charles Conwell’s pro debut but also to have a quality main event between two very good fighters,” said Tony Holden. “Charles is already generating buzz locally and the fans are eager to see him in action.”
Kenzie Witt-Morrison of Tulsa, OK looks to avenge a prior draw against Oklahoma City native Aaron Chavers, 7-2-1 (3 KO’s), in six round heavyweight rematch. The son of late heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison and half brother of fellow “Four State Franchise” member Trey Lippe-Morrison, Witt-Morrison is 10-0-2 and has 9 victories by knockout.
Undefeated welterweight Jarrett “The Legacy” Rouse of Bartlesville, OK will face an opponent to be named. Representing the “Four State Franchise,” Rouse is a multi-sport standout, compiling a 10-0-1 record with 4 KO’s in the ring along with a 3-0 professional record as a mixed martial artist. In December 2016, he scored a career best victory by outpointing once-beaten Shadi Shawareb. 
 
Dillon “White Lightning” Cook was also scheduled to appear but had to withdraw due to an elbow injury.
Opponents and additional bouts will be announced shortly.

Veteran manager Stan Hoffman Honored to be inducted into New York State Boxing Hall of Fame 

Sunday, April 30 Induction Dinner
Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo Snipes & Arthur Donovan head new class
NEW YORK (April 5, 2017) – Veteran boxing manager Stan Hoffman is honored to be selected for induction in the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF), sponsored by Ring 8, as a member of 15-member Class of 2017. The sixth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 30, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
Hoffman, 86, has managed, advised or promoted 38 world champions during nearly 50 years working in the boxing industry.  A product of Brooklyn and Bronx, Hoffman still advises some boxes and attends fights, but he enjoys spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
“I’m told that I’ve had 38 world champions and I have a story for each one of them,” Hoffman said. “Almost from the beginning, in 1980, I had success in boxing.  Joe Manley is special because he was the first fighter I signed and also my first world champion.  Team USA didn’t send a team to the 1980 Olympics (because of a boycott) and Joe was lost.  Nobody expected him to on to win the world junior welterweight title like he did.  The pinnacle of my career was my first heavyweight champion, Michael BennttBob Arum called asking if I wanted to make some money using Bentt in a tune-up fight for Tommy Morrison, who had a big money fight lined up with Lennox Lewis.  Michael knocked him out in the first round (for Morrison’s WBO heavyweight title).  AndHasim Rahman is like my kid.  From Iran Barkley to James Toney, I have stories about all of them.”
Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include Manhattan welterweightGaspar “El Indio” Ortega (131-39-6, 69 KOs), Yonkers’ world heavyweight title challenger Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes (39-8-1, 22 KOs), Yonkers middleweightDoug “Cobra’ Dewitt (33-8-5, 19 KOs), and “The Bronx Bomber,” world middleweight title challenger Alex Ramos (39-10-2, 24 KOs)
Posthumous participants being inducted are Queens’ former middleweight and light heavyweight world champion Dick Tiger (60-19-3, 27 KOs), Brooklyn/Manhattan light heavyweight world champion Jose “Chegui” Torres(41-3-1, 29 KOs), and Williamsburg’s middleweight world champion, “The Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey (51-4-11, 23 KOs).
Non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF along with Hoffman are Queens’ International agent Don Majeski, Long Island matchmaker Ron Katz, and past Ring 8 president/NYSAC judge Bobby Bartels.
Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn boxing historian Hank Kaplan, Long Island cut-man Al Gavin, Bronx referee Arthur Donovan and New York City columnist Dan Parker.
Each inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his induction into the NYSBHOF.
The 2017 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:  Jack Hirsch, Steve Farhood, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Ron McNair, Angelo Prospero 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.
“After spending so many years of my life in boxing,” Hoffman concluded, “I was fortunate to have so many world champions.   It was a lot of hard work but I had a lot of luck, too.  I’ve met so many good people in boxing.  I’ll tell you, I’m going to enjoy being inducted into the New York State Hall of Fame, now (he joked), a lot more than if I’d been dead going in.  I’m honored. It’s also special for me to be inducted in the same class as Ron Katz, who was my matchmaker, Doug DeWitt – I worked with him as a manager and he won the world title – and my good friend, Reynaldo Snipes.  The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame induction dinner is a great time and I’m really looking forward to it.”
 
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 Giambra, 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.
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 PM/ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the evening.  Tickets are available to purchase by calling NYSBHOF/Ring 8 president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304.  Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $80.00 to $250.00, by contacting Duffy. Go on line atwww.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.
About Ring 8: Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto still remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.
RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.
Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August.  All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership.  Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.

ANDRE WARD VS. SERGEY KOVALEV II “NO EXCUSES” SET FOR SATURDAY, JUNE 17 AT MANDALAY BAY EVENTS CENTER IN LAS VEGAS

PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW®

 

NEW YORK, NY (April 4, 2017) – Roc Nation Sports, Main Events, Andre Ward Promotions and Krusher Promotions are pleased to announce the highly anticipated rematch between the unified Light Heavyweight Champion of the World, Andre “SOG” Ward (31-0, 15 KOs) and former title holder Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-1-1, 26 KOs). Ward vs. Kovalev II “No Excuses” will take place Saturday, June 17 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The championship event, presented by Corona Extra, will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

 

Team Ward and Team Kovalev will partake in a three-city press tour the week of April 10 to officially announce the fight, including New York City, the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Further details will be available in the coming days.

 

“I’m going to keep it short and sweet. You got what you asked for – now you have to see me on June 17. This time…leave the excuses at home,” said Ward.

 

“I’m glad to know that rematch will happen. I really hope that Andre Ward will get into the ring for this rematch. Fans of boxing will see the real Krusher–the one they have missed for couple of my last fights. For me this rematch is very important as no other bout in my entire boxing career. Thanks a lot to all of boxing fans,” said Kovalev.

 

“Roc Nation Sports is proud to be the lead promoter behind a boxing rematch for the ages,” said Michael Yormark, Roc Nation President & Chief of Branding and Strategy. “Last November, Andre showed the world he was boxing’s best. No doubt he will build upon his legacy come June 17 in another historic night. There’s no excuses, the rematch is on.”

 

“After the last fight, we are preparing for another unbelievable experience. Can’t wait for the bell to ring! This is sure to be another nail-biting roller coaster ride,” said Kathy Duva, CEO, Main Events. “This is the only fight that Sergey wants right now and he refused to settle for anything less than the chance to get his belts back. I’m told that Roc Nation and Andre Ward have lots of great ideas for the promotion and we can’t wait to see them in action!”

 

“After a razor thin decision last November in their first meeting, the boxing community has been eagerly waiting for a Ward-Kovalev rematch,” said Tony Walker, Vice President, HBO Pay-Per-View. “These are two world class prizefighters who embrace being on the sport’s biggest stage. Like Andre and Sergey, we can’t wait for June 17th at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.”

 

“This spectacular rematch of pound-for-pound champions will be a ‘can’t-miss’ fight at the Mandalay Bay Events Center,” said Richard Sturm, President of Entertainment and Sports for MGM Resorts International.  “We look forward to working with both Roc Nation Sports and Main Events once again on this championship event which should be one of the most thrilling fights of 2017.”

 

Known for his strong character and integrity outside the ring and his warrior’s instinct inside it, 33-year-old Andre Ward’s skill and talent were apparent early in his outstanding amateur career. He racked up every title in the books, culminating in a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. As the only male American boxer to claim Olympic gold in the past decade, Ward joined the likes of Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard and Oscar De La Hoya. He turned professional on December 18, 2004, scoring a second round technical knockout victory over Chris Molina at Staples Center in a fight that was televised live on HBO. He has gone on to rack up an undefeated record since then, building an ever-growing legion of fans in the process. After becoming the Ring Magazine and WBA Super Middleweight World Champion, rising to the number two spot on the pound-for-pound list and winning the 2011 Fighter of the Year Award (ESPN, Sports Illustrated, Ring Magazine and the Boxing Writers Association of America), it was announced that Ward signed an exclusive promotional agreement with Roc Nation Sports in January 2015, opening a new chapter in his storied boxing career. Ward returned to the ring on June 20, 2015 at the Oracle Arena in front of his hometown fans in Oakland, California and scored a ninth-round knockout over Paul Smith. On March 26, 2016, Ward made his highly publicized 175-pound debut against Cuba’s undefeated and IBF number one rated light heavyweight contender Sullivan Barrera and came out victorious. Ward continued his conquest of the light heavyweight division on August 6, 2016, with a unanimous decision over Alexander Brand. Immediately following the win, Ward announced that he will be taking on unified Light Heavyweight Champion Sergey Kovalev in the ultimate showdown for division supremacy and recognition as the best pound-for-pound fighter. In the most anticipated fight of 2016 on November 19 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Ward would prove to the world his dominance as one of boxing’s top pound-for-pound fighters by becoming the unified World Light Heavyweight Champion with a unanimous decision win over Kovalev, the reigning WBA, IBF and WBO titleholder.

 

Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev, the Russian Wrecking Ball, 34, is currently ranked #2 Pound-for-Pound by Ring Magazine and has been dominating boxing’s light heavyweight division with his aggressive, fan-friendly style since his breakout performance against then-unbeaten Nathan Cleverly in 2013 when he won the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title. One year after winning his WBO title Sergey went on to defeat future Hall-of-Famer Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins in a 12-round unanimous decision victory to add the WBA and IBF Light Heavyweight World Titles to his mantle. His rise to boxing stardom has been meteoric, as he has gone from an unknown fighter from Chelyabinsk, Russia to headlining HBO Pay-Per-View in just four years after signing with his first promoter, Main Events. In his last fight, Kovalev went the distance against former two-time world champion Andre “SOG” Ward. The bout ended in a highly-contested unanimous decision against Sergey even though Kovalev managed to knock down Ward and many thought the cards should have gone in his favor. Out of Kovalev’s 30 career victories 26 have come by way of knockout. Additionally, he has entered into championship rounds only three times in his professional career. Kovalev has always sought to test himself against the best boxing has to offer; he wants to prove in the ring that he deserves that mantle.

 

Ward vs. Kovalev II “No Excuses, a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA light heavyweight championships, is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Main Events, Andre Ward Promotions, Krusher Promotions and Corona Extra, and is sponsored by Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. The championship event takes place Saturday, June 17 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

 

Follow the conversation using #WardKovalev.