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boxing, Las Vegas, Roc Nation

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

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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.

boxing, Las Vegas

THE NEVADA BOXING HALL OF FAME CONFIRMED FOR THIRD EDITION OF BOX FAN EXPO TAKING PLACE ON CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 6, IN LAS VEGAS

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Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite
For Immediate Release
Las Vegas (April 4, 2017) – The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame has confirmed that they will appear and have a booth to Meet & Greet fans at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 3rd edition of Box Fan Expo that will take place Saturday May 6, 2017 during Cinco De Mayo weekend. The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Julio Cesar Chavez jr, that will take place later that evening.
The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame will appear once again at this years’ Expo and will be joined by top fighters, legends and boxing celebrities that will be signing gloves, photos and merchandise.

The NVBHOF was founded in 2012 by President Rich Marotta and presently operated by New President Michelle Lewis-Corrales. Their mission is to honor boxers and those associated with the sports who have contributed to the advancement of boxing in Nevada. They are a non-profit organization with proceeds, after expenses, being distributed to boxing-related charities, special-needs former boxers, youth boxing, Nevada boxing gyms, and other worthy organizations. Their mission is a Threefold: 1) Connect with nonprofits and community organizations 2) Host boxing events and celebrations 3) Preserve boxing history in Nevada and beyond

NVBHOF joins, Yuriorkis Gamboa, Al Bernstein, Thomas Hearns, Kronk Boxing, WBC, Christy Martin, Mia St.John, Fernando Vargas and Joel Casamayor among early commitments to this year’s Box Fan Expo.

Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last two Expo’s such as Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Vinny Pazienza, Mikey Garcia , Mia St.Johns, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks and many more…
Exhibitors such as boxing gear, apparel, new equipments, energy drinks, alcohol, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans, media and the boxing industry.
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to Meet and Greet Boxing Superstars of today, current and former world champions, Legends of the sport and other boxing Celebrities at their booth. On Site, fans will experience different activities from Autograph Sessions, Photo Sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, as well as a chance to purchase merchandise and memorabilia from their booth, plus so much more… you won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!
Box Fan Expo will also feature top boxing organizations, promoters, ring card girls, famous trainers and commentators as well as boxing gear companies “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”.
Throughout the next 6 weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like more information on sponsorships opportunities or reserve a Booth, contact Box Fan Expo:
Telephone number: (514) 572-7222 or Las Vegas Number (702) 997-1927
For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com
More information on the Box Fan Expo is available at: http://www.boxfanexpo.com
You can follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter at: https://www.twitter.com/BoxFanExpo\
boxing

BARRIOS BACK IN BAY AREA TRAINING WITH VIRGIL HUNTER

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Photos by Team Barrios
BAY AREA, CA (April 3, 2017) – Unbeaten super-lightweight prospect, Mario Barrios (18-0, 10 KOs), is back in the Bay Area, CA, training with coach Virgil Hunter.  After scoring a TKO in his last bout on March 4th, Barrios returns to the gym, motivated to get back in the ring.
“It feels good to be back in the gym training with Virgil.” said Mario Barrios a native of San Antonio, TX. “Seeing all the guys in the gym, getting ready for their fights, has me fired up.  As soon as my team lets me know when I’ll be fighting next, I’ll be ready to get back in the ring and continue my march toward a world title.”
Look for Barrios to get back in the ring shortly.  No date is set, but an announcement will be coming soon.
“Although I don’t have a date set, my goal is to be ready at all times.” Barrios continued. “Coming out to California from Texas, to start training early, will only make me a better fighter.  I know all the hard work and sacrifice will pay off in the end.
boxing, charity

Melson to serve as keynote speaker at the New York Future Business Leaders of America Annual State Leadership Conference April 5-7

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Boyd Formal Photo.jpg

New York, NY (April 3, 2017) – Retired professional boxer, present-day motivational speaker and United States Army Public Affairs Reserve Officer, Capt. Boyd Melson will be a keynote speaker at the 2017 Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference April 5-7 in Rochester, NY at the Riverside Convention Center.

 

A former WBC-USNBC boxing champion at 154 pounds, Melson helped raise more than $400,000 for Spinal Cord Injury research and other causes between his fight purses and charity galas. In March, the 2003 West Point graduate completed the Army’s Public Affairs Qualification Course now officially allowing him to serve in the Army Reserve as a Public Affairs Officer. Melson has served in the U.S. Army Reserve for eight years after he completed five years of Active Duty service in the United States Army.

 

As a public and motivational speaker, Melson’s addressed diverse audiences including elementary to college aged students, Army Battalions, Army Corps level leadership, college sports teams, Fortune 500 companies and religious organizations.

 

Earlier this year, the well-rounded Melson announced he plans on running for United States Congress during the 2018 elections. Melson, with the help of tremendous individuals on Staten Island, NY stepping up to volunteer their time and space, is currently running free weekly boxing clinics on Staten Island to help men and women battling or overcoming addiction.

 

The largest career student organization in the world, FBLA is for middle school, high school, and college students interested in learning about free enterprise systems. Nationally recognized throughout the United States, FBLA helps prepare students for careers in business and to become better employees and citizens. Melson was told he’ll address 600-800 high school students.

 

Melson will close out the three-day event by providing a half-hour speech to all in attendance. He will also serve as a judge during the FBLA’s student competitions.

 

“I received an email a few months back from the NY FBLA leadership stating that they were present when I spoke at Congressman Patrick Maloney’s Service Academy Nomination Workshop for high schools students,” said Melson. “They said that that speech is what prompted them to invite me to speak at this event and share my story. I was told that the theme for this year’s conference is “Suit Up, Step Up.” Well I have a great deal of internal fire I am happy to share with members of our nature’s future attending the conference. I thank the love in this universe dearly for giving me another opportunity to use my abilities hopefully offering a perspective that helps at least one person want to suit up and step up. If I was independently wealthy, I would wish my life would be me traveling around to students each and every day hoping to help them lift their own lives up.”

 

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Undefeated Justin Hurd added to non-televised card on Friday, April 14th at The Theater at MGM National Harbor in National Harbor, Maryland

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Tickets On Sale Now!
 NEW YORK (March 31, 2017) – Undefeated junior middleweight, Justin Hurd has been added to the non-televised undercard on Friday night, April 14th at MGM National Harbor in National Harbor, Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C.
The ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader will feature undefeated former Russian amateur standout Dmitry Bivol (9-0, 7 KOs, 2-0 WSB) defending his interim WBA Light Heavyweight Title against Samuel Clarkson (19-3, 12 KOs) in the main event and a matchup of undefeated welterweights in the co-feature, Juan Ruiz (18-0, 11 KOs) and Malik Hawkins (10-0, 7 KOs) squaring off in an eight-round bout. Super bantamweight prospect Glenn Dezurn will meet unbeaten two-time national amateur champion Leroy Davila in the eight-round telecast opener  live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) .
Tickets for the event, which is co-promoted by Greg Cohen Promotions and Banner Promotions in association with World of Boxing and Uprising Promotions, are priced at $103, $73 and $48 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 800-745-3000.
Hurd of Accokeek, Maryland has a record of 2-0 with one knockout, and is the brother of current IBF Junior Middleweight champion, Jarrett Hurd.
The 23 year-old Justin Hurd had an 18 bout amateur career, and like his brother, he is trained by Ernesto Rodriguez.
“My training has been great  I have been staying ready, and I am excited to fight at MGM National Harbor.  I expect to have a lot of fans at the fight,” said Hurd.
Being around an accomplished brother, Hurd is grateful for the success that Jarrett has achieved and has learned a lot from the journey that garnered Jarrett a world title.
“Jarrett has opened a lot of doors, but when people see us fight they will see that our styles our different.  He has power, and I go by the name of “Slick” Justin Hurd.  I like to use my combinations and I show my quickness.”
That is a sentiment that trainer Rodriguez echoes.
“Justin is different then Jarrett.  He uses hand-speed, Jarrett uses his size.  You will see that Justin fights in much of the same manner of Meldrick Taylor, and he mixes in some deceiving power,” said Rodriguez.  “Justin is electric, and is calculating with good reflexes.  He will be a force to be reckoned with.  He is fighting at 154 pounds now, but we will slowly be taking him to 147.”
Justin Hurd considers himself a real student of the game and has followed the advice of both his big brother and trainer.
“What I have learned by watching Jarrett go through his run is to listen to our trainers.  I learned that my trainers tell us what to do for good reason.  With that in mind, I just am ready to put on a show and am grateful to be added to the card on April 14th.”
Hurd joins Hasim Rahman, Jr., Ruben Villa and Michael Dutchover on the non-televised undercard.
# # #
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @GCPBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,
boxing, CBS Sports Network

U.S. Olympian Nico Hernandez Building Wichita into a fight town

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins”
Encore presentation this Saturday night on CBSSN
 

(photo by Charles Yellowfeather)
WICHITA, Kansas (March 31, 2017) – Last Saturday night at Kansas Star Arena in nearby Mulvane, 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez planted a seed in hopes of growing Wichita into a fight town, as world champions Terence Crawford and Deontay Wilder have already accomplished in the respective hometowns, Omaha (NE) and Birmingham (AL).
More than 3,100 fans purchased tickets Hernandez’ successfully professional debut, stopping Pat Gutierrez in the fourth round.  To put that attendance figure in its proper perspective, Wichita has a population of less than 400,000 and in this hoop-crazed state, the appropriately named “KO Night Boxing: History Begins” went head-to-head with the popular Kansas Jayhawks quintet playing on national television in the Elite Eight of the NCAA college basketball championship, as well as The Wichita Force playing at home in indoor football.
The 21-year-old Hernandez is practically a sports franchise in Wichita, second only to the Wichita State University (WSU) men’s basketball team.  The city turned out in force at a parade honoring Hernandez upon his return home from the Olympics and WSU awarded him an open-ended four-year college scholarship.
 
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins” Encore Presentation this Saturday night
The encore presentation of last Saturday’s “KO Night Boxing: History Begins,” featuring the pro debut of 2016 Olympic Bronze medalist Nico Hernandez, will air this Saturday (April 1), starting at 8:30 p.m. ET, on CBS Sports Network.
“The show was a huge success and Nico, as a pro fighter, produced a more complete body of work than we had expected,” Hernandez’ promoter John Andersen (KO Night Boxing) said.  “I was very impressed.  His amateur background converted to an even better pro style.  It really showed his potential and that’s one of the primary reasons we signed him. We really believed in Nico.  He is the only fighter we have signed, right now; Nico is our stable!  We see things from a different angle than big-time promoters.  We understood that he’s a hometown hero, so we had him headline at home his pro debut on national television (CBS Sports Network).  We produce our shows on television and we enjoy telling stories like Nico’s.  We’d like to come right back to Wichita with Nico fighting in June.”
Lifelong Kansas Sean Wheelock, a non-paid member of the Kansas Athletic Commission that oversees boxing, in addition to calling last Saturday’s fights as a member of the KO Night Boxing announcing team on CBS Sports Network, has a unique perspective on the significance of last Saturday evening’s in terms of local boxing history.
“It was huge for Kansas boxing,” Wheelock explained, “the biggest show in this state since the Tommy Morrison Era (early-to-mid 1990’s).  Morrison was an adopted son, though. Nico was born here and he has a deep investment in the Wichita community.  Drawing 3000-plus for his pro debut, in a non-boxing market, was phenomenal and he has the potential to do what Crawford has done in Omaha and Wilder in Birmingham.  Boxing has strong roots in Kansas and across the Midwest, but MMA has taken over and lately, most boxing in Kansas has been on hybrid shows with MMA and kickboxing.
“Fans were loudly chanting, ‘Nico’ and ‘316’ (Wichita’s area code) before, during and after his fight. I’ve never heard fans chanting for a city like they did, ‘Wichita’, for an individual athlete.  And they were also chanting ‘USA’.  As a native Kansas, I’m proud that this state has become more ethnically and culturally diverse with more Hispanics living in Wichita.  Nico is engaged in the Hispanic community and he is a fantastic kid, too.  Because of his personality and fighting style, he can draw locally from Wichita, throughout all of Kansas, and nationally among Hispanics and Americans across the country because of his accomplishment in the Olympics.”
Hernandez is also fighting in one of the hottest divisions in boxing — 115-pound junior bantamweight/super flyweight — showcasing name fighters such as Naoya Inoue, Roman Gonzalez, Carlos Cuadras, Juan Francisco Estrada and recent addition Srisaket Sor Rungvisai.  Conspicuously absent, however, are top 20 ranked American fighters in this weight class, excluding 36-year-old Brian Viloria, the four-time, two-division (junior flyweight and flyweight) world champion.  The opportunity is right there for Hernandez to quickly establish himself as the preeminent American boxer in this weight class.
“There’s no reason for Nico to fight outside of Wichita for a couple of years as he develops,” Andersen noted.  “I feel that he can win a regional title next year. Our goal is to have him in a world title fight position within three years.  Our goal is to get him 13 to 15 fights and then promote a super fight in Wichita.  He started out in a six-round fight.  I think he’ll only have a couple more and then move up to eight-round bouts.
“Nico doesn’t waste a lot of punches, so the number of scheduled rounds won’t be a problem for him. Another fighter would have punched himself out in two rounds, fighting at home in front of a crowed like he had supporting him, but Nico showed tremendous poise, settling down and putting his punches together very well.  He didn’t chase Gutierrez, he effectively cut off the ring, and his powerful body attack was something he didn’t do as an amateur.  We wanted to see how he reacted to resistance and he passed that test with flying colors.”
Andersen noted that his company has promoted several successful shows, noting the big difference is last weekend’s show featured a world-class fighter in Hernandez.  “Making the Olympics was a big deal for Nico,” Andersen added, “whether he medaled or not.  Nico is to us what Manny Pacquiao is to Top Rank, ‘Canelo’ Alvarez to Golden Boy. We’re lucky to start out with a fighter like Nico.  Fighting in Wichita was risk for everybody but it’s already paying dividends.
“We know who and what we are as a promotional company.  Nico is our top priority, our only fighter right now, and now we have a great opportunity to build off last weekend’s success.  We give Nico all the attention he deserves and he’s going to take advantage of this situation.  And we also discovered that there’s some other talented boxers in this market. Whit Hayden did a wonderful job making very competitive fights.  That’s his history, he never has blowouts.  Whit is one of the most knowledgeable people I know in boxing.  He’s the perfect matchmaker to guide Nico’s career, along with Nico’s father (head trainer) Lewis Hernandez, who we work closely with in many ways, in and out of the ring.”
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Neonstarmedia, @KONightBoxing
Follow on Twitter & Instagram: @Nicomhernandez
About Neon Star Sports & Entertainment (NSSE)
NSSE is a content company whose focus is creating original and joint venter media properties – unscripted, scripted, events and digital programming – for cross-platform distribution.  In this highly competitive digital age, NSSE specializes in the development and production of corporate branding designed with your target audience and accelerated consumer growth in mind.  Visit us on Twitter @Neonstarmedia or Facebook www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media. REV Sports Entertainment Inc. (MAVTV Canada) and Neon Star Media LLC are subsidiary companies of Neon Star Sports & Entertainment Inc.
boxing

DAMIEN VASQUEZ FACES VETERAN LORENZO TREJO APRIL 1ST

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LAS VEGAS, NV (March 31, 2017) – This Saturday, April 1, 2017, undefeated flyweight prospect, Damien “Sugar” Vasquez (9-0, 4 KOs), will step in the ring against Lorenzo Trejo (35-32-1, 22 KOs), a veteran of sixty-eight fights.  The 8-round main event, will take place at the Riverebend Sports Complex in Salt Lake City, UT.
Damien, the nephew of former two-time super-bantamweight world champion, Israel Vazquez, fights out of Las Vegas, NV, with trainer, Bones Adams.  Adams, a former super-bantamweight champion himself, feels Damien Vasquez has all the talent to follow in the footsteps of his uncle Israel.
“Since I’ve been training with Damien, I’ve watched him grow as a fighter,” said Clarence “Bones” Adams. “He’s getting better with each fight and I really believe he can win a world title someday.  He definitely has the talent and work ethic to do so.  He reminds me of his uncle Israel in many ways.”
Facing a veteran like Trejo, is just the type of fight Damien is looking for.  Vasquez wants to face fighters with a lot of experience.
“I’m sure Trejo has a lot of tricks up his sleeve with all his experience,” said Damien Vasquez. “These are the type of fights I look forward too, where a young fighter like myself can learn a few things.  I’m going to set the pace early, and go from there.  By no means am I taking him lightly.”
Vasquez’s father Oscar, has been in his sons corner from day one.  He’s thrilled, knowing his son has progressed since his first pro fight.
“I’m very proud of my son because I know how hard he works, and I can see the improvement after every fight,” said Oscar Vasquez. “My brother and I always knew he had the talent to become a good professional boxer.  I’m confident he’ll come out victorious against a tough veteran like Trejo.”
boxing, mixed martial arts, MMA, Rich Bergeron, Tom Padgett, Tony Penecale

March 30, 2017 FNU Combat Sports Show: King Mo vs. Rampage Preview, Arum says UFC will take half of Conor’s purse against Floyd

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Tom, Rich and Tony break down last week’s big fights and preview the upcoming week’s combat sports cards. The main focus is Bellator 175 in MMA this week. We also discuss some of the latest news, such as a claim made by Bob Arum that the UFC wants to take half of Conor MacGregor’s purse when and if he fights Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a boxing match. We also have a good laugh about Rampage Jackson being mad at King Mo Lawal for “fat shaming” him..  Rampage’s defense is vintage Cartman from South Park: “I’m not fat, I’m just big boned.”

boxing

 PHILLY PROMOTER ARTIE PELLULO: “FLANAGAN-PETROV STEALS THE SHOW AND COULD BE FIGHT OF THE YEAR!”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA / Manchester, UK (March 30, 2017)–Legendary Philadelphia fight face Artie Pellulo lands in the UK early next week confident of adding a 45th world champion to his stellar CV.
The 61 year old Italian-American’s highly regarded lightweight Petr Petrov (38-4-2) makes a mandatory challenge to home hero ‘Turbo Terry’ Flanagan, the undefeated WBO king, at Manchester Arena on Saturday week and he looks like being frantic. BT Sport and BoxNation screen live in the UK.
Last Wednesday, Glynn Evans spoke to the Philly-based promoter.
It’s been extremely difficult to find any background info regarding Petrov’s personality. Can you enlighten us?
I’ve been promoting fighters for almost 30 years now, including 44 world champions and I have to say that Petr is one of the nicer individuals I’ve come across; the type you’d have over your house. He’s just married the girl he’d been dating for a very long time. He’s a gentleman, a pleasure to work with.
Psychologically, how will he cope performing before thousands of baying Brits?
I’ve consistently gone on record as saying that the British fight fans are terrific. You’ll recall I had dealings with Ricky Hatton. They support their heroes like no other. But I guarantee that the crowd will not adversely affect Petrov.
Being on the road is actually like being at home for him because he’s never ever fought in Russia and hasn’t featured in his adopted homeland of Spain for five years. He’s won all six of his fights in the US and, before that, he competed in Germany, Argentina and Montenegro. I guarantee that facing a partisan crowd in Manchester will not affect his job. In fact, it will energize him, excite him.
And I’ve no problem whatsoever with the officials in the UK. Matter of fact, I won my first world title in Britain when Otis Grant outpointed Ryan Rhodes in his hometown of Sheffield for the vacant WBO Middleweight title way back in (December) 1997.
Before that, my fighter Tyrell Biggs was officially ahead on the referee’s card before Gary Mason knocked him out on a Mickey Duff show at the Royal Albert Hall (October 1989) and John Thompson was up on the cards before Liam Smith put him to bed at this very venue 18 months back. You always get a fair shake with the Brits.
What are Petrov’s qualities as a fighter?
I discovered him during his involvement in the ESPN Boxcino Lightweight tournament in early 2014 and, trust me, between the ropes, he’s the real deal. You only have to watch his tapes to appreciate that he’s relentless, smart, can box or punch and he’s blessed with a very good eye. Petr has a real understanding of what is going on in the ring at any given moment and he can adopt accordingly. He gives a 110% effort every time.
What is your assessment of champion Flanagan? What does Petrov need to be mindful of?
I was ringside the night Terry Flanagan hammered Diego Magdaleno in two rounds because John Thompson challenged Liam Smith that night and what I saw was a very, very good fighter. Terry’s a smart southpaw who’s very tough and keeps coming. No doubt, he’ll be looking to extend his very impressive unbeaten streak.
What course did you see the fight taking? What key factor will determine the winner?
This fight steals the show and could well be Fight of the Year, seriously. It’s that good a match up. Both Terry and Petr are TV friendly and fan friendly. It’s gonna be great theatre.
There’s no main factor that distinguishes one over the other. It’ll be about how two fighters at the very top of their games handle the pressure and stay with their game plan.
Tickets for April 8 priced £50, £70, £100, £150, £200, £300 and VIP £500 are available from eventim at www.eventim.co.uk and 0844 249 1000 and the Manchester Arena at www.manchester-arena.com and 0844 847 8000.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

Undefeated Heavyweight Contender Luis Ortiz Battles Long Island’s Derric Rossy Saturday, April 22 in Premier Boxing Champions Event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn

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Plus! Brooklyn’s Amanda Serrano Looks to Make History When She Fights for a World Title in a Fifth Weight Class

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Undefeated Prospects Jose Miguel Borrego & Jonathan Alonso Battle While Unbeaten Julian Sosa & 2016 Haitian Olympian

Richardson Hitchins Enter the Ring

 

Click HERE for Press Conference Photos from Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Press Conference Photos from Ed Diller/

DiBella Entertainment

 

BROOKLYN (March 30, 2017) – Unbeaten heavyweight contender Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz (27-0, 23 KOs) will return to the ring to take on Long Island’s Derric Rossy (31-12, 15 KOs) in a 10-round showdown Saturday, April 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event live from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

Also competing in undercard action is four-division world champion Amanda “Real Deal” Serrano (31-1-1, 23 KOs) who will look to make history by becoming the first woman and the first Puerto Rican fighter to win a fifth world title in five different weight classes. Both the Ortiz vs. Rossy and Serrano bouts were announced at a press conference in New York City on Thursday.

 

SHOWTIME Boxing coverage of the Ortiz vs. Rossy and Serrano bouts will be announced in the coming days.

 

The April 22 event is headlined by former world champions Andre Berto and Shawn Porter battling in a welterweight world title eliminator. Televised coverage of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME and also features unbeaten super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo defending against top contender Charles Hatley.

 

Additional undercard attractions feature a group of unbeaten prospects as Mexico’s Jose Miguel Borrego (11-0, 10 KOs) battles 2012 Spanish Olympian Jonathan Alonso(12-0, 4 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight showdown, Julian Sosa (7-0-1, 2 KOs) entering the ring in a six-round welterweight fight and 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round junior welterweight bout.

 

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.com, www.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. The Charlo vs. Hatley fight is co-promoted by TGB Promotions and Don King Promotions.

 

One of the most feared heavyweights in the world, Ortiz has worked his way into the WBA’s mandatory position to fight the winner of the Anthony Joshua-Wladimir Klitschko, who fight for Joshua’s IBF and the vacant WBA Super World Championship. The Cuban-born fighter had previously picked up the interim title in 2015 with a stoppage of Matias Ariel Vidondo and defended the title with a dominant knockout of former title challenger Bryant Jennings later that year. Last year saw Ortiz continue to run through heavyweight contenders as he earned TKO victories over Tony Thompson and David Allen plus a victory over Malik Scott.

 

Fighting out of Medford, New York, Rossy was a 2004 Golden Gloves champion and a defensive end for Boston College before turning pro in October 2004. Rossy owns victories over Axror Muralimov, Ray Mercer and Carl Drumond in addition to challenges top heavyweights Eddie Chambers, Vyacheslav Glazkov and Bermane Stiverne. This will be the ninth undefeated fighter that Rossy faces in his pro career.

 

Raised in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn, Serrano gravitated toward boxing from watching her older sister Cindy, also a professional fighter. She picked the sport up quickly, amassing a 9-1 record during a brief amateur career in which she won the New York Golden Gloves title in 2008. The 28-year-old would go on to fight all over the world, seizing her first world title in 2011 when she defeated Kimberly Connor to grab a super featherweight belt. In 2014, she went to Argentina and defeated Maria Elena Maderna to become a world champion at lightweight. Her world title climb continued in 2016 as she stopped Olivia Gerula in the first round to capture her featherweight championship and followed that up with a victory over Alexandra Lazar to add a super bantamweight title to her collection. She most recently put on a show at Barclays Center in January when she defeated two-division champion Yazmin Rivas by unanimous decision.

 

Here is what the participants had to say Thursday from Gallagher’s Steakhouse in Manhattan:

 

LUIS ORTIZ

 

“I’m not a man of many words, but yesterday was my birthday, so with that extra year of experience, I’ll speak a little bit more.

 

“I’m ready to fight right now. I’m waiting for the opportunity to fight the winner of Anthony Joshua vs. Wladimir Klitschko. They better get ready, because ‘King Kong’ will be waiting for them.

 

“I work very hard to stay in shape. All year round I am in the gym and staying ready. When the time comes and I have a fight offered, I will always be ready.

 

“My plan is to become the heavyweight champion of the world. I feel like I’m with the right team now that will open those doors for me. Whoever they put in front of me, I will take care of them.

 

“I love fighting in New York because there are such smart fans here who really love boxing. They love the knockout and I’m excited to be here to do my job.

 

“I’ve been working hard and waiting to get a victory on April 22. Once I get past this bout, it’s on to bigger and better things. I’ll find out everything about Rossy that I need to know on April 22 and put on a great show.

 

“Age is nothing to me. So many fighters have competed into their late age. I still have a lot left in the tank.

 

“I would love to fight Deontay Wilder. We’re both big, tough fighters. These are the kind of fights that people want to see. I know that my time will come.

 

“We’re looking forward to this new relationship and this first fight on April 22. I can’t wait to get out there in front of the fans and show my skills. I believe it will finally be time for ‘King Kong’ to come out of the jungle.”

 

DERRIC ROSSY

 

“When they brought the fight to me, I said let’s do it. We’re doing it right by fighting at Barclays Center.

 

“This is a real fight. I’m always ready. The fans are who pays us and they want to see a legitimate fight. This is going to be a quality matchup on April 22.

 

“I think our styles will match up well. He throws his hands well and I think I do the same. I sometimes try to be more evasive and I’m anticipating him bringing it. There might be some bull in a China shop, but then it could turn. We both adapt well in the ring.

 

“You can’t ask for anything better than this kind of fight. We’re both top-notch heavyweights and we’re going to go at it. It’s a thrill for me to be there regardless, but I think the fans are really going to be the winners.

 

“I’ve fought a lot of really good heavyweights. I won’t know how he stacks up until I get in there with him. All I know is that he’s tough, rugged and good.

 

“My situation is that I always have to stay ready in the gym. I happened to be ready when the call came and I said yes as soon as I could.

 

“I’m going to win this fight and it’s going to set up some big things. I’m in this business to get a world title. I have to go through Luis Ortiz to get there.”

 

AMANDA SERRANO

 

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and put on a show in front of the fans. That’s what I love to do and it’ll be great to do it at Barclays Center.

 

“I’m motivated to make history. This would be my sixth world title in five weight divisions. This is a goal that my whole team has had. We want me to be the first Puerto Rican fighter to conquer five divisions. I want to be known as the girl who made history.

 

“I think every fighter wants to be known as the best in the world. If I’m not the best, I want to be one of the best. I want to be remembered and open the door for girls around the world.

 

“I’m very thankful for everyone who came out here today. This is a great opportunity for me on April 22. I’m going for history. I want this so badly. I train hard and I have a great team taking care of me.

 

“What better place to make history than at Barclays Center in Brooklyn? No matter who they put in front of me, it’s going to be a night of fireworks. I’m doing this for female boxing. I’m going to show how much talent we have. This is the one that I want more than anything. I always put on a show for my fans in Brooklyn and my eyes are on the prize.”

 

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

 

“I’m really happy today to announce some great additions to a terrific card on April 22 in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME. Everyone knows the main event is a great fight in the welterweight division. We also announced a 154-pound matchup as the co-main event with Jermell Charlo vs. Charles Hatley.

 

“The biggest announcement is that a very big man, is going to be on this card. All Luis Ortiz has done as a professional fighter is knock guys out. He’s one of the most feared and avoided men in the heavyweight division. Ortiz and his team want the biggest fights out there. He knows that being seen on a card of this magnitude is a tremendous opportunity.

 

“I know that Luis Ortiz has a big victory in mind on April 22 that will propel him to a bigger fight and eventually to the biggest fights in the world. This guy deserves the opportunity.

 

“Amanda Serrano is a great champion. She’s one of the best pound-for-pound female fighters I the world today. No female fighter in history has ever won five titles in five weight classes. But it’s even more amazing, given the long history of the sport on the island, that no Puerto Rican fighter has ever become a five-division world champion. On April 22 Amanda Serrano will attempt to make history.

 

“Amanda has won titles as heavy as 135-pounds and now she’ll be fighting at 118-pounds. That’s an amazing achievement. She’s always fought the best out there and she’s always proven that she is the best. She deserves the attention she’s getting. She may be the best fighter I promote, period. This woman stands should-to-shoulder with any of them.”

 

“I know that Derric Rossy is going to give a test to Ortiz. But he’s never been predicted to win. Every time I watch his fight against Bermane Stiverne, I saw him winning the fight. This guy is a real professional and he deserves this opportunity.

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

 

“We’re thrilled to be here announcing such a fantastic undercard from top to bottom. Amanda Serrano is looking to become the first woman and Puerto Rican to win world titles in five weight classes. A card this deep, you know that it is a SHOWTIME card.

 

“These are the kind of cards that SHOWTIME, Lou DiBella and Barclays Center are working on every day. This was a good event and now it is a great event.”

 

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment

 

“It’s been a special start to the year for Brooklyn Boxing. You think about January 14 and March 4 and what great nights those were. Now we have April 22 and it has become a special card. We’re excited about what we’re building in Brooklyn. We’re making great strides.

 

“I want to welcome Luis Ortiz to Barclays Center for the first time. I’m sure it will be a special night. We’re thrilled to welcome back Amanda Serrano as well for what should be a historic night.

 

“We’re going to continue to put on the biggest and best events we can. It’s been a great start to the year and we’re looking forward to more to come.”

 

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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 at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.