Tag Archives: boxing

Erickson Lubin Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Unbeaten Super Welterweight Battles
Once-Beaten Contender Jorge Cota Saturday, March 4 on
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
From Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Douglas DeFelice/Prime 360
 
ORLANDO (February 16, 2017) Undefeated rising star Erickson “Hammer” Lubinhosted media at his gym in his hometown of Orlando Thursday as he prepares to face once-beaten contender Jorge Cota Saturday, March 4 in a 12-round super welterweight world title eliminator on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented byPremier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
 
Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by the welterweight world title unification showdown between unbeaten fighters Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman.
 
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 Lubin and his trainer had to say Thursday:
 
ERICKSON LUBIN
 
“I haven’t stopped training since my last fight on December 10. We have been full throttle since.
“This is a big fight. It is a title eliminator. It is at Barclays Center. It is on CBS. You’ve got Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman in the main event. It is 12-rounds. This is definitely what I’ve dreamed of. This is the kind of opportunity that I’ve wanted. Getting to seize the moment. Going out there, dominating the fight and going on to become the mandatory challenger for the title.
“We always say that we aren’t training for the fight coming up, we’ve training for the title. I’ve prepared for this. To be the youngest world champion, we just saw Gervonta Davis do that and make history like that is a blessing. I can’t wait to go for that.
“The fans can expect straight fireworks. I am going to go out there and dominate the fight. A lot of fighters say they’re going to do something, but I am the type of guy that says it and lives up to it. March 4 fans definitely want to tune in.
[On the “Hammer” ring name] “There are hammers in my hands. They punish and do damage. A hammer with fireworks is dangerous isn’t it?
“It is my first time fighting in Brooklyn. I expect a lot of stars to be there. A lot of people having their eyes on me. I am expecting to become the mandatory for the belt and for everyone to know my name.
“2017 is a big year. To be in this position right now is a great start for the year and to become a mandatory challenger is bigger and becoming a world champion is the biggest. I want to be undisputed.”
 
JASON GALARZA, Lubin’s Trainer
“I’ve known Erickson since he was eight-years-old. He had an aura about him back then and he still has it. He continues to be a hard-working individual. He has this drive that most athletes don’t have, but the great ones do.
“There are a lot of people that don’t know of him, but there are actually a lot that do. We are going to go up to Brooklyn and show the fans at Barclays Center and the world, what we do and what he is made of.
“We have a family-based gym here. The guys that have been around Erickson from the beginning. We hit the road for the first two years of his career. We did our homework. I learned from a lot of top coaches, what to do and what not to do.
“I learned what I should and shouldn’t do to train a professional, but you can’t teach the chemistry that he and I have. When you are in with him, you are all the way in.
“People have told me that Erickson isn’t ready for Cota. I believe this is the right time. He pushes himself, he is a student of the game and always has been. The difference with this training camp from others is that we know who our opponent is. We have focused on that one individual, so we know.
“I’m from Brooklyn and I haven’t been there in about seven years. So Erickson is bringing me home.
“Fans can expect fireworks. This kid is very explosive. They will see a mature fighter at 21 years old. He will have so many more fans after March 4th.”
# # #
ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA
Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Adrien Broner vs. Adrian Granados Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® This Saturday, February 18 From the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati
 
Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME
CINCINNATI (February 16, 2017) – Four-division world champion Adrien Broner and hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they enter the ring Saturday, February 18 live on SHOWTIME® from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Also in attendance Thursday and competing in televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT were WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan and two-time world champion Lamont Peterson, who meet in a 12-round welterweight fight, and light heavyweight contenders Marcus Browne and Thomas Williams Jr., who battle in a 10-round contest.
Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader airs during a SHOWTIME FREE PREVIEW WEEKEND during which the premium network will be available to more than 73 million television households nationwide from Friday, February 17 through Monday, February 20.  Viewers can sample the network’s award-winning programming on SHOWTIME, SHOWTIME On Demand®, SHOWTIME ANYTIME® 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Here is what the participants had to say Thursday from the Cintas Center:
ADRIEN BRONER
“I know everyone is used to me coming up here and being boastful. That’s not me anymore. I have a lot of respect for Adrian Granados and he’s a great fighter.
“A businessman that can fight. That’s what I am nowadays. I’m not a sh*t talker anymore. I’m a businessman that knows how to fight.
“My best knockouts come when I don’t go for the knockout. I look at my last fight and think to myself that it was terrible because I was looking for the knockout. I watch the Khabib fight, I didn’t look for the knockout and it came. That’s when the biggest knockouts come. I just want to go in there and put on a great performance for the hometown crowd.
“I just want to put on a great performance for everyone in Cincinnati. It’s going to be a special atmosphere and I want to give them their money’s worth.
“I’ve had an amazing training camp and I feel great right now. I’m very thankful to my team who has helped me get to this point in my career.”
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“I’m excite for this weekend. I’m ready to go. I’ve been through a lot but we’re ready. I’m not here to lay down. I’m here to take home a victory for Chicago and for my people.
Saturday I’m expecting a great fight. It is going to be a kill or be killed-type of fight. It is going to be a very exciting night for all of us.
“People that think I’m an underdog don’t know me. They don’t know the tricks I have up my sleeve. I plan on thriving in the underdog position.
“I’ve watched Adrien fight live on TV and in the arena many times. Spending eight weeks with him [in camp], I think I know him more than most people.
“I plan on winning in a stoppage or a unanimous decision. No matter what I’m leaving with a victory.”
“It’s going to be a great fight. We have a lot of mutual respect. Mixed with my style, I know it’s going to be a good fight. I hope everyone is ready for a great show.”
DAVID AVANESYAN
“I’m very happy to have this fight in America. This is my second time fighting in the U.S. and I’m looking forward to keeping my belt after fighting Lamont Peterson on Saturday.
“I am excited to be fighting on a show like this. I hope that if I can get another win I can get even bigger fights and prove that I’m the best.
“I’m ready for this challenge. I know Lamont Peterson is looking to make this a great fight and I hope he brings it in the ring on Saturday.”
LAMONT PETERSON
“I had a great camp. I’m thankful to my team for getting me ready for this one. We got some great sparring that has me ready for this fight.
“I’m ready to take care of business on Saturday night. I’m looking forward to it and I hope everyone enjoyed it.
“We always want to be in good condition. Avanesyan switches from southpaw to orthodox a lot, which is something we had to be prepared for. We’ve sparred with guys from both sides and gotten a lot of good rounds there.
“He’s a strong fighter too. You know a Russian fighter is going to come in with power. We made sure I’ll be able to match him anytime the fight gets rough. I’ll be ready for anything.
“I think my speed will give him trouble. He’s been able to handle everything in the past, but that doesn’t mean I won’t have advantages. I’m the more experienced fighter and I have the skills to get the win.
“I feel like I’m going to get him out of there. I’m predicting a late stoppage.”
MARCUS BROWNE
“Top Dog can say what he wants to say. On Saturday night we’ll be Dog Whisperers. Make sure you tune-in for this one.
“I’ve had a great training camp and I feel ready to get in the ring. Saturday night can’t come soon enough for me.
“I’m thankful to have this opportunity to fight on a great card like this. I’ve seen guys like Adrien and Lamont in the ring for a lot of years and I’m proud to be up here with them.”
THOMAS WILLIAMS JR.
“I’m feeling great. It was an awesome camp. Everyone should buy a ticket or watch it on TV. Get there early and don’t miss my fight.
“Marcus is a boxer and I know he’s going to try to kick and scratch every now and then. If you let him get comfortable, he’s going to get in a zone. My job is to make him uncomfortable and make him do the things that I want him to do.
“Everybody who knows me, knows what I bring to the table. When I get in the ring you know what’s coming. Saturday night, ‘Top Dog’ will reign.”
RAVONE LITTLEJOHN, About Billions Promotions
“It’s finally fight time. Tickets begin at $30 for this great card. We’re excited to be promoting big events in Adrien’s hometown and the great boxing fans here.
“Adrian Granados is a guy who we’ve had in camp with Adrien before. We know what he’s capable of and how hard he works. Everyone knows he’s coming to bring it.
“Adrien has done a lot in this sport and he has a lot more left to do. I know he’s going to do it, and it starts Saturday night.
“Both guys are going to get in that ring and give it their best. Adrien Broner will be victorious, but we like the challenge.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“We’re very excited to be here in this wonderful city. It’s a great boxing town with a history of very good fighters from this area. Saturday night is an outstanding show from top to bottom.
“Both of the Adrien/Adrian’s know each other very well. You want to watch Adrien Broner Saturday night. He’s going to put on a phenomenal performance that I can’t wait to see.
“From top to bottom this is an incredibly exciting card and we’re excited to work with About Billions to give boxing fans another great event.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“At SHOWTIME our mission is to bring fans the biggest, best and most meaningful fights in boxing. This Saturday is no exception. These are three all-action and evenly matched fights. This is our third time in Cincinnati with Adrien Broner and this is the strongest card we’ve had here yet.
“When we announced our slate of winter fights, there was one event that I circled and said, ‘this is going to be the sleeper.’ This is an all-action card.
“Adrian Granados and his team did not hesitate one bit to jump at this fight. We know what type of fighter Adrien Broner is. He is a guy who will never shy away from a challenge. Whether you like him or not, Adrien always entertains and he always fights hard. I can’t wait for a great night on Saturday.”
# # #
ABOUT ADRIEN BRONER vs. ADRIAN GRANADOS
Adrien Broner vs. Adrian Granados will take place Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH live on SHOWTIME. Televised coverage on begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown. Also featured will be WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Jermall Charlo Vacates IBF Junior Middleweight World Title

 
After Going Undefeated At 154 Pounds, Charlo
Moves To 160 pounds In Search of Bigger Challenges And World Title In
Tough Middleweight Division
 
HOUSTON, TEXAS (FEBRUARY 16, 2017) – Undefeated champion Jermall Charlo relinquished the IBF junior middleweight title this afternoon in order to pursue bigger challenges and another world championship in the middleweight division.
Charlo, 26, who lives and trains in Houston, has a sterling record of 25-0 with 19 KOs. He won the title with a TKO victory over Cornelius Bundrage on Sept. 12, 2015, and successfully defended it three times, defeating Wilky Campfort, former 154-pound champion Austin Trout and top contender Julian Williams. Charlo leaves the division after an impressive KO victory over Williams at the Galen Center on the USC campus in Los Angeles on Dec. 10, 2016.
Tony Harrison (24-1, 20 KOs) and Jarrett Hurd (19-0, 13 KOs) will battle for the vacant IBF 154-pound title on the undercard of Deontay Wilder defending his heavyweight title against Gerald Washington on primetime on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes at the Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama on Saturday, February 25. Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
Charlo’s twin brother, Jermell, still has the WBC 154-pound title and will defend it against Charles Hatley at the MGM National Harbor in Maryland on Saturday, March 11.
“I’ve been thinking about moving to 160 pounds for a while now,” Charlo said. “It was a struggle for me to make the weight for the last title fight. Once I captured the title I defended it immediately, because I wasn’t sure how long I could hold the weight. I held it an extra year to fight Austin Trout and Julian Williams. I feel there are bigger and better things for me at 160 where I can still hold my weight and be stronger. The idea of being a two-time world champion is a big goal for me.
“If there were a big fight at 154 pounds left for me, I’d stick around and wait for it. But there isn’t anything there that can be made quickly. And I wouldn’t fight my brother or my gym mate and close friend, Erislandy Lara.”
Charlo’s trainer, Ronnie Shields, is in favor of the move up to a higher division.
“It’s a move that has to be made,” said Shields. “He was definitely having trouble making that weight. No sense in holding himself down in making that weight. Going up to 160 pounds is a must. I think he does well there. He’s big enough to handle the weight. It’s not like we have to do anything special to compete at 160 pounds. That’s basically what he is – a middleweight.”
Charlo doesn’t anticipate any problems with moving up. He plans to make his middleweight debut soon.
“I’ve been training for a couple weeks now. It’s like a mini-camp. I’ve been shaking out,” Charlo said. “We’re looking at May to be completely ready. I’m a big athlete already. I’m just looking forward to taking my superstar status and competing with the big boys up there.”

 

 Terry Flanagan – Petr Petrov press conference video and Pictures

   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA / Manchester, UK (February 16, 2017)–Below is the video plus pictures from Wednesday’s Press Conference announcing the Terry FlanaganPetr Petrov WBO World Lightweight championship bout that will take place at The Manchester Arena onSaturday, April 8th.
There was a photo shoot inside and outside the famed Manchester City Football Stadium
Media outlets may use the video on their digital platforms by copy/paste the embedded link.
Embedded Link:  <iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/AixgeFYX5Ks” frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen></iframe>

Erislandy Lara Gains U.S Citizenship

HOUSTON, TX (February 16, 2017) – WBA and IBO super-welterweight champion, Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara, is truly living the American dream since he has now completed all the eligibility requirements to become a U.S citizen.  Erislandy, along with his wife Yudi, took an oath of allegiance to the United States today, solidifying their citizenship.
Lara, who made his U.S. boxing debut in Primm, Nevada, in January of 2009, is elated about gaining his U.S. citizenship.  He reflects on the long journey it took to become a U.S citizen.
“When I arrived in the United States in 2008, my main goal was to become a citizen of this great nation.” said Erislandy Lara.  “It brings me great joy to know that I am now a legal citizen of the United States of America.  It’s been a long journey to get where I’m at today, and I couldn’t have done it without my beautiful wife Yudi.  Together, we fulfilled all the legal requirements that were mandated to become a U.S citizen.”
“Living in here in the States has been a tremendous blessing to me and my family.” Lara continued. “With hard work, and the help of many good people around me, I’ve been able to provide for my loved ones.  My goal is to continue my boxing career with my core team, and someday, God willing, become a Boxing Hall of Famer.”

Greg Cohen Promotions Signs Heavyweight Contender Joey Dawejko to a Promotional Agreement

Greg Cohen Promotions proudly announces the signing of heavyweight contender Joey Dawejko (17-4-3, 10 KOs).

Dawejko (pronounced Da-Vayko) of Philadelphia, has been a classic underachiever, thus far, in his professional career, but says the addition of Cohen as his promoter is just one of the changes he has made.

The 26-year-old Philadelphian has always been a talent but, admittedly, hasn’t always been in the best shape for his fights. “My manager, Mark Cipparone, changed my life,” he explained. “I used to take fights on a week’s notice for no money, so I never gave it 100%. Plus, I was working 12-14 hours a day as a roofer. The first day I got with him, I told him I can’t make the gym today because I’m going to be working and couldn’t get there in time. He said ‘Quit. This is your full-time job now.'”

“Everything is going to be different from now on,” said Dawejko. “I’m a different person, a different fighter, different everything and I’m getting a lot better. I have a new team and I’m training out in Los Angeles. I’m living a new life and happy to finally be working with Greg Cohen. He can get me the big fights I need. It’s going to be great because I just need a chance at another big-name opponent.”

Despite his relatively young 26 years, Dawejko has been boxing since age nine, where he debuted as a junior flyweight. The lifelong experience enables him to use his 5′ 10″ height to work move in under the punches of today’s heavyweight giants and do solid work. He managed to hold top contender Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller to a draw in 2013.

It was a decision loss to top contender Amir Mansour in 2015, however, that brought him forward leaps and bounds as a fighter.

“It was my first 10-round fight and I just wasn’t myself that night. It cost me a loss, but it was probably a good thing because I learned so much from that fight. As soon as it was over, I was a better fighter. I realized what I have to do better and different.”

“Joey is still young for a heavyweight,” said Greg Cohen. “In the past, he hasn’t been as well-prepared as he should have been and still managed to beat almost everyone he faced. A focused and determined Joey Dawejko is a problem for anyone in the world and I’m 100% sure Joey can win a world title. I’m excited to be guiding his career along with his dedicated manager, Mark Cipparone.”

Dawejko says that while he’s happy to be away from the distractions of home to train and finally in a position to reach his potential, he misses his young and growing family.

“My fiancée is home with my children. I have three girls, age 11, 4 and one that is 2 in April. Plus, I’ve got another on the way. Its’ tough being away from them. I’m giving it all for them.”

Clash Between Hard-Hitting Tony Harrison and Undefeated Jarrett Hurd Is Now For The Vacant IBF Junior Middleweight World Title

Clash Between Hard-Hitting Tony Harrison and
Undefeated Jarrett Hurd Is Now For The
Vacant IBF Junior Middleweight World Title
 
The 12-Round, 154-Pound Title Battle Is Part of A Stacked Show To Be Televised in Prime Time
 
Live on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX &
FOX Deportes at8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
 
Saturday, February 25 From Legacy Arena in
Birmingham, Alabama
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL (February 16, 2017) – The stakes have been raised in the already highly-charged junior middleweight showdown betweenTony Harrison (24-1, 20 KOs) and Jarrett Hurd (19-0, 13 KOs). The clash between Harrison and Hurd has been elevated to a battle for the vacant IBF 154-pound world title and is part of an exciting night of action Saturday, February 25.  on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes.
The title become vacant after titlist Jermall Charlo dropped the belt to move up to middleweight to seek bigger challenges in a new division.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT live from Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Alabama and is headlined by undefeated heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his title in his home state for the fourth time, as he faces undefeated contender Gerald Washington.
“These guys have already shown their mettle by agreeing to fight each other – No. 2 versus No. 3 – for the No. 1 spot,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “Having this match be for a world title is a great reward for two young guys who have shown a willingness to face each other.”
“Boxing writers and fans are already buzzing about Harrison versus Hurd, an explosive matchup,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The winner will now be the IBF champion, bringing greatly increased significance to what should already be a war.”
The 26-year-old Harrison comes into this fight after scoring an explosive ninth-round stoppage of Sergey Rabchenko in July that put him in line for the world title. Harrison, who took down Cecil McCalla, Fernando Guerrero and Rabchenko in his last three contests, faces a tough challenge in the undefeated Hurd. The Detroit-native was unbeaten in his first 21 pro fights and recorded 10-straight knockouts between 2013 and 2015.
“I’ve been waiting on this for a long time. This the biggest shot of my life. It’s like my son being born all over again,” Harrison said. “This just made the fight that much more interesting. As a boxer this is what you dream of – the day you fight for a world title. Santa came early. We’re both 26 years old. It’s a dream come true for both of us. It doesn’t change the approach. It just makes it much sweeter and puts that much more respect on the winner of this fight.”
“This is the moment every boxer dreams of, becoming the world champion,” said Hurd. “I finally get that opportunity on the big stage – on the Deontay Wilder heavyweight championship card and on FOX in prime time on national TV. I’m blessed. I want to thank everyone for getting me to this point. Tony Harrison is a great fighter. It’s not going to be an easy fight. Tony Harrison is top-level competition and I’m a top level competitor. Two great fighters going after something they want.  But I have to say my pants are falling and I need my belt.”
Hurd fights out of Accokeek, Md., just south of Washington, D.C. and is perfect since entering the pro ranks in 2012. The 26-year-old defeated three straight unbeaten fighters, including a sixth-round stoppage of Frank Galarza in 2015 and a 10th round TKO over Oscar Molina in the co-main event of the Keith Thurman vs. Shawn Porter card in June 2016. Most recently, Hurd stopped former title challenger Jo Jo Dan in the sixth-round of their fight in November of last year, positioning himself to fight for the title.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TBG Promotions in association with Bruno Event Team, start at $25 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster and by visiting AlabamaTitleFight.com.
For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.com,www.dbe1.com,http://www.tgbpromotions.com/http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/FoxSports andwww.Facebook.com/FoxDeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Final.

Heavyweight Izuagbe Ugonoh Ready To Power His Way Onto The World Championship Scene With An Explosive Performance Against Hard-Hitting Dominic Breazeale

 
 Premier Boxing Champions in Primetime On FOX & FOX Deportes On February 25 At Legacy Arena In Birmingham, Alabama
 
The Polish Contender Makes U.S. Debut On The Undercard Of Deontay Wilder Defending His WBC Heavyweight Title Against Unbeaten Gerald Washington
 
Click HERE for Photos from Premier Boxing Champions
LAS VEGAS (FEB. 15, 2017) – You may not have heard of Izuagbe Ugonoh…yet. But the Polish-born heavyweight contender plans to change that when he takes on Dominic Breazeale in a 10-round match on the undercard of WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder’s title defense against Gerald Washington in primetime on FOX and FOX Deportes, at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama on Feb. 25.
“I’m looking forward to displaying my skills and letting the U.S. boxing fans get a look at what I’m bringing to the heavyweight division,” Ugonoh said. “I’m very excited to be making my U.S. debut in primetime on FOX and FOX Deportes. Dominic Breazeale is a tough opponent, but he is also the kind of boxer that will allow me to put on an entertaining show for the fans in the arena and those watching on FOX and FOX Deportes.”
Ugonoh, who prefers to be called Izu (pronounced E-Zoo), has a unique blend of athleticism, speed and power that he honed as a kickboxing champion in Poland before switching over to boxing in 2010. Starting with his match against the hard-hitting Breazeale (17-1, 15 KOs), Ugonoh has an ambitious timetable as he works his way toward fighting for a boxing world title.
“This is my moment and 2017 is my year,” Ugonoh said. “I want to challenge myself and show the world how good I am. I believe the heavyweight division is wide open right now, and the top fighters are going to bring the best out of me. If I do what I’m supposed to do, I can see myself fighting for a world championship in the next 18 months.”
“I’ve been hearing great things about Izu internationally for years,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “He’s a big, strong athletic heavyweight with good power. But Dominic isn’t a pushover. Plus, he is coming off his first loss. He is in a make or break type fight. It’s the classic case of a guy with something to prove against a guy with a lot to lose.”
The 30-year-old Ugonoh was born in Szczecin, Poland, to Nigerian parents, and has a 17-0 record with 14 knockouts. Ugonoh has a master’s degree from Jedrzej Sniadecki School of Physical Education and Sports in Gdansk, Poland. He grew up playing soccer, before focusing on becoming an elite, all-around fighter by training in kickboxing, boxing and martial arts.
“Izu is a big, physically imposing, strong heavyweight who, while virtually unknown here, has developed a reputation abroad,” said Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment. “In his first fight on American soil, he will take on a legitimate heavyweight contender and world title challenger in Dominic Breazeale. We’re going to find out in Birmingham whether Izu is the real thing; if he’s able to shine, the mystery man is an immediate factor in the heavyweight division.”
Not afraid to step out of his realm, Ugonoh was a contestant on the past season of “Dancing With the Stars” in Poland, making it to the final two rounds.
“It was a lot of work,” he said. “I trained for 35 hours a week to dance for 1 minute 15 seconds on the show. Dancing was more work than boxing,” he laughed. “People laugh when I say that because they think I’m joking, but it was as much work as training camp. One of the key benefits is it improved my footwork in the ring.”
Ugonoh is trained by Kevin Barry, the corner man for WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker and former heavyweight title challenger David Tua. Ugonoh has been fighting out of New Zealand for the last two years, but now he will train in Las Vegas and is ready to make a name for himself in the U.S.
With Barry in his corner, Ugonoh is anxious to power his way into the heavyweight championship ranks.
For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.com,www.dbe1.com,http://www.tgbpromotions.com/http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/FoxSports andwww.Facebook.com/FoxDeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Final.

Alvarez represents shortest road to Bute’s 14th world title fight

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
“BUTE VS. ALVAREZ”
Live on PPV in North America
Feb. 24 at Videotron Centre of Quebec City
Lucian Bute (L) is fighting for a chance at his 14th world title fight
MONTREAL (February 16, 2017) – Former world super middleweight champion Lucian Bute plans to parlay his February 24th Canadian showdown with undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver light heavyweight champion Eleider “Storm” Alvarez into his 14th world title fight later this year.
The 36-year-old Bute (32-3-1, 25 KOs) is challenging Colombia-native Alvarez (21-0, 10 KOs) for his WBC Silver title belt in the 12-round main event headlining “BUTE VS. ALVAREZ”, promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) and Gestev, a presentation of Videotron and Mise-O-Jeu, at Videotron Centre in Quebec City, Canada.
Bute also hopes to become the first Romanian-born boxer to capture world titles in two different weight classes as the Bute-Alvarez winner in this final WBC eliminator will become the mandatory challenger for his GYM stablemate, reigning WBC and lineal light heavyweight champion Adonis “Superman” Stevenson (28-1-0, 23 KOs).
Integrated Sports Media will distribute “BUTE VS. ALVAREZ” live in the United States, starting at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, on cable, satellite and internet pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and the FITE app for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.
In Canada, “BUTE VS. ALVAREZ” will be available to watch, in English or French, on Canal Indigo, Shaw TV and Bell TV; English-only on Rodgers PPV, as well as in many of the top Canadian sports bars.
Outside of North America, “BUTE VS ALVAREZ” is being distributed by leading boxing television rights distribution firm, Protocol Sports Marketing Ltd.
Bute was one of the world’s top pound-for-pound fighters for nearly five years (Oct. 19, 2007-May 26, 2012) as the International Boxing Federation (IBF) 168-pound division champion.  The classy southpaw is 10-2-1 (8 KOs) in world title fights and he has defeated six world champions: Dingaan ThobelaSakio BikaAlejandro BerrioWilliam JoppyBrian Magee and Glen Johnson during his outstanding 13-year pro boxing career.
Now ranked No. 7 by the WBC, Bute is as hungry as he’s every been for one more world title shot opportunity.  “I am fighting an undefeated Olympian who is the No. 1 ranked light heavyweight,” Bute said.  “A win will conform that I deserve a 14th world championship fight.  It means everything to me.  I took this fight because it’s the shortest road for me to get a world title shot.
“I expect a technical fight.  Alvarez is gifted and he has a good jab, but my experience and speed will make the difference.  I will definitely win!”
Tickets for “BUTE VS. ALVAREZ” are on sale and available to purchase by going on line to www.Videotron.centrequebeccity.cpm/tickets and www.Ticketmaster.ca
 
 
 
 
 
 
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @yvonmichelgym, @gestevinc, @IntegratedPPV  #ButeAlvarez
Follow these fighters on Twitter: @Stormalvarez, @Butelucian

Roy Jones – Bobby Gunn Press Conference quotes

“Skill vs. Will”

LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW–FRIDAY FEBRUARY 17TH
Wilmington, DE (February 16, 2017)Below are quotes from Wednesday’s press conference in advance of Friday night’s “Skill vs. Will” Pay-Per-View showdown between Roy, Jones, Jr. and Bobby Gunn.
Roy Jones Jr.
On Bobby Gunn as an opponent:
“The thing I stand for and respect and represent – I love a person who won’t quit, and [Bobby Gunn] won’t quit for nothing. He has 72 wins with 72 knockouts – bare-knuckle – you’re really a professional bully! You just beat people up for the hell of it… It’s what I love. People ask why I’m so motivated to fight Bobby Gunn – it’s because what I stand for in boxing, he is in bare-knuckle. I respect that.”
On the opportunity to be in the ring on Friday:
“We are getting an opportunity to share the ring, and entertain the people while we share the ring, and I am at-heart an entertainer. And this man is a killer. I’m not saying that this man is not a killer, it’s just that I trust in my abilities to go out and do things differently because that’s who I am.”
On his conditioning:
“I am in very good shape for the first time in four or five years. I feel better than I have felt in a long time. I know I have my hands full, and I know my hands are ready for battle. I know this man is coming to bring it. But that’s what we live for; that’s what we love. Come Friday night be ready for a very entertaining fight.”
Bobby Gunn


On Roy Jones Jr. as an opponent:
I’m born and bred a fighting man, since birth. I’m fighting one of the greatest fighters who ever lived. I’ve seen a lot of horsesh!t on the Internet, people running him down. Saying he’s too old, this or that. Why don’t you guys get in the ring and fight him, then? Let me tell you something right now – I respect him more today than [the fighter he was] 20 years ago. Because he’s more dangerous, he’s cagey, he’s a veteran. There’s nothing you can do to him he hasn’t seen.”
On his mental and physical condition coming into the fight:
“I’m coming here to fight my guts out. I’m in good shape. I’ve been training hard for this one for a long time – this man’s been in my head a long time. I go to sleep with Roy, and I wake up with Roy. He’s part of my family, we’re sick of talking about Roy. I can’t wait to see him Friday night and get it over with! I’m coming here to fight.”
On critics of the matchup:
“In a few days here, me and Roy are going to battle. We’re doing to prove a lot of critics wrong, a lot of doubters. When that bell rings, it’s only me and him in there. To be honest with you, critics mean zero. Their opinions mean nothing… [Roy Jones Jr.] said he’d come and fight me, and he’s here. He has the heart of the lion. But we’re going to get it down. I’ll shake your hand today, but I’ll tell you [to Jones Jr.] we’re in for a good fight, both of us. Roy Jones won’t forget my name for the rest of his life.”

In the main event the legendary Roy Jones, Jr. takes on Bare Knuckle legend Bobby Gunn for the WBF Cruiserweight title LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW at the Chase Center in Wilmington, Delaware.
Media Week Schedule 
 
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16TH–OFFICIAL WEIGH IN–DELAWARE PARK CASINO–6PM

5:00 PM–Media Check in
6:00 PM–Fighters on the scales

Delaware Park Casino
777 Delaware Park Blvd.
Wilmington, Delaware 19720

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH–FIGHT NIGHT–THE CHASE CENTER

6:00 PM–Doors Open
7:00 PM–1st bout
9:00 PM–Pay Per View Broadcast begins

The Chase Center
815 Justison Street
Wilmington, Delaware  19801

Scheduled to be in attendance are former Heavyweight champions Larry Holmes, Tim Witherspoon, Michael Spinks and Tyson Fury