Tag Archives: Boxing

Boxing, Mayweather ni igbega, Showtime Boxing

FLOYD MAYWEATHER AND LOGAN PAUL BATTLE TO THE DISTANCE IN SPECIAL EXHIBITION THAT HEADLINED SHOWTIME PPV SUNDAY NIGHT

Fi kan ọrọìwòye

Two-Division Champion Badou Jack and Veteran Contender

Luis Arias Collect Victories in Pay-Per-View Undercard Bouts

Former NFL Star Chad Johnson Makes Boxing Debut In Exhibition Fight Against Brian Maxwell

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TẹNIBI fun Awọn fọto lati Amanda Westcott / Showtime

TẹNIBI Fun awọn fọto lati Soan Michael Ham /

Mayweather ni igbega

Miami(June 7, 2021) – All-time boxing greatFloyd "Owo" Mayweatherand social media sensationLogan “The Maverick” Paulfought to the distance in their eight-round special exhibition bout Sunday night that headlined a SHOWTIME PPV from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

“O si wà lagbara, tough and better than I thought he was,"Mayweather. “I was surprised by him tonight. That was some good little work.”

“It’s an honor to share the ring with Floyd,” said Paul. “He’s one of the GOATs. This is one of the coolest things ever.”

After weeks of buildup, the star-studded event pitted superstars from two different worlds in a highly anticipated showdown for sports and entertainment fans around the globe.

Mayweather displayed his typical patient and clinical boxing style, feeling out Paul in the opening round, before allowing Paul to come forward with a flurry of power shots at the end of the round that were mostly blocked, but excited the crowd nonetheless. As the fight wore on, Mayweather began to find a spot to land numerous power shots on Paul’s head and body.

Despite sustaining punishment in the middle rounds, Paul was able to use his over 30-pound weight advantage to frequently tie Mayweather up and avoid being stopped or sent to the canvas.

“Even without much experience, he knew to use his weight to tie me up tonight,"Mayweather.

Lẹhin ti awọn ija, the fighters expressed gratitude and inspiration to the fans who have helped them reach the tremendous heights that allowed this match to become reality.

“I had fun tonight,"Mayweather. “I thank all the fans who came out, you’re all unbelievable.”

“I don’t want anyone to tell me anything is impossible ever again,” said Paul. “The fact that I got in here with one of the greatest boxers of all time, it proves the odds can be beat. Anyone can beat the odds and do great things in life. This is one of the greatest nights of my life, Inu mi dun. "

In the co-main event former two-division world championBadou Jack(24-3-3, 14 KOs) delivered a dominating fourth-round stoppage of previously unbeatenDervin Colina(15-1, 13 KOs) in their light heavyweight duel.

“The game plan was just to outbox him,” said Jack. “Everything else will come. Pato, hit the body. He was a little soft in the body but I give him respect. He came out on short notice. He was supposed to fight next week but this is a different level.”

Known as a slow starter throughout his accomplished career, Jack came out faster in this fight and was sharp from the outset against the replacement opponent Colina, who stepped in for Jean Pascal after Pascal failed a pre-fight drug test.

“He was trying to hold a lot and survive,” said Jack. “I fight better when I fight better opponents. I was a little sloppy. The world class fights are when I perform the best.”

Jack’s effectiveness forced Colina to try to hold to stop the incoming attack, but he was only able to use that strategy briefly, as referee Frank Santore Jr. took away points for holding in rounds two and three, warning Colina that one more infraction would end the fight in disqualification.

Ni yika mẹrin, Jack landed a straight right hand that put Colina on the mat in the opening minute of the frame. Colina fought valiantly to stay in the fight, but the body attack from Jack helped him finally earn the stoppage. A combination to the body put Colina down for the second time and a counter right hand dropped Colina for a third and final time as the referee halted the fight at 2:57 in the round.

“I’m a big guy and I walk around heavy, so I might move up to cruiserweight,” said Jack post fight about his future plans. “My goal is to become a three-division champion and I fight better when I don’t have to cut a lot of weight.”

The pay-per-view telecast also saw veteran contenderLuis Arias(19-2-1, 9 KOs) score a split-decision victory over former unified 154-pound champion“Swift” Jarrett Hurd(24-2, 16 KOs) in an action-packed 10-round affair.

“I’m not sure what went wrong tonight,” said Hurd. “I believe I won the fight. I had a knockdown. I could make a hundred excuses but it wasn’t a great performance.”

Arias controlled the early rounds of the duel, attacking Hurd with numerous combinations that landed flush. His clean power punching was an advantage throughout, as he out landed Hurd in power punches by a total of 153 si 120 while landing over 40% of those shots.

“The game plan was to jump on him, get the early lead and keep it,” said Arias. “I felt like in the middle rounds I was winning the fight but you never know because I wasn’t the A-side in this fight. I buzzed him a lot, especially on the inside.”

Hurd began to attempt to mount a comeback in rounds five and six, closing the distance effectively and finding a home for short right hooks and right uppercuts, with Arias even acknowledging that he was made unsteady after the action.

“I came in here and challenged the number one guy at 154 pounds and we fought somewhere halfway and I was able to edge a decision,” said Arias. “Props to Jarrett Hurd. You fought a great fight. Nitootọ, you could have had me out of there. I was definitely buzzed. If you would have found a way, I definitely would have gone down.”

In a fight that had two brief delays to weather affecting the ring surface, Hurd scored a knockdown in round nine with a glancing right hand after Arias appeared to slip on the ring. Despite the advantage on the scorecard, the uneasy footing affected Hurd’s plan to box Arias from the outside.

“The plan coming out in the first round was to box,” said Hurd. “I wasn’t as confident in my feet as the rain came down, so I had to go toe-to-toe more. That wasn’t really what we trained for, so I was a bit sloppy.”

Arias bounced back effectively from the knockdown in the final round, with his onslaught eventually forcing Hurd to look to hold on in the final minutes to reach the final bell. In his first outing with new trainer Ismael Salas, Arias ended the night victorious, with one judge scoring the fight 95-94 for Hurd, overruled by scores of 97-93 ati 96-93 for Arias.

“I would like to thank Ismael Salas,” said Arias. “I came to him semi-late. About six or seven weeks and I needed to change something in my game plan to beat Jarrett. The things I was doing before would have gotten me a loss tonight. I needed somebody to just tweak a little bit and put my game up a little bit so I could beat this champion.”

“I’ll take the rematch at whatever weight,” said Hurd. “I know I’m the better man.”

In the opening bout of the pay-per-view, former NFL starChad Johnsonmade his boxing debut in an exhibition that went the four-round distance against versatile pro fighterBrian Maxwell.

“I had fun,” said Johnson. “I had two months to get ready for this and I want to thank God for keeping us safe out there. I want to thank Floyd, Leonard Ellerbe and my whole team for allowing me to check this off my bucket list.”

“Ask the world who Brian Maxwell is now,” said Maxwell. “Brian Maxwell is here. E dupe, Chad. It was an honor fighting my idol and I appreciate it.”

Johnson showed off the “sweet feet” that made him a six-time Pro Bowler, landing some strong jabs and check hooks from distance, while avoiding serious damage from Maxwell over the first three rounds.

Ni yika mẹrin, Maxwell provided an exclamation to the bout, landing a counter overhand right that connected and put Johnson onto the canvas with 40 aaya osi ni yika. In his first foray into the sweet science, Johnson was able to recover from the shot, get to his feet and make it to the final bell.

Always willing to step into uncomfortable waters throughout his career, Johnson post-fight expressed hope that his venture into the ring will serve as a positive example for those watching.

“My life has always been about taking chances and doing crazy stuff and this is just another one off my bucket list,” said Johnson. “It’s a message for a lot of people who are scared to fail, scared to lose, scared to take chances to go out there and live. Don’t be scared to fail, it’s okay. I don’t box. I fight but it ain’t in the ring, so of course I was a little sloppy.”

Tonight’s blockbuster pay-per-view event will air on SHOWTIME this Saturday, June 12 ni 10:05 p.m. ET/PT. The delayed telecast of Mayweather vs. Paul will be immediately followed by the premiere ofINSIDE MAYWEATHER VS. PAUL – EPILOGUE. The epilogue spotlights the festive fight week in Miami, goes inside the ropes during the fight and reveals the dramatic aftermath of an event that captured the sports world’s attention.

The SHOWTIME PPV telecast from Miami was hosted by veteran sportscaster Brian Custer while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handled blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein, three-division world champion Abner Mares and unofficial scorer Steve Farhood. The award-winning comedic duo Desus Nice and The Kid Mero, the hosts of the SHOWTIME hit late-night programDESUS & MERO, provided unique and entertaining commentary throughout the event while MMA fighter and comedian Brendan Schaub of SHOWTIME Sports’ digital seriesBELOW THE BELT served as roving reporter. World–renowned Boxing Hall of Famer Jimmy Lennon Jr. provided in-ring announcing throughout the blockbuster event. The Executive Producer was David Dinkins, Jr. and the Director was Bob Dunphy.

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ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. LOGAN PAUL

Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul was a special exhibition bout presented by Mayweather Promotions, FANMIO and Mavathltcs that took place on Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The telecast, which was produced by SHOWTIME PPV, aired live beginning at 8 p.m. ATI / 5 p.m. PT and could be purchased at SHOWTIME.com atiFANMIO.com. The undercard featured two-division world champion Badou Jack in a 10-round contest against the undefeated Dervin Colina, plus former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd against Luis Arias in a 10-round bout and in a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson made his boxing debut in a four-round exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell.

Fun alaye diẹ ẹ ibewobit.ly/mayweatherpaul,  www.SHO.com/sports, www.FANMIO.com. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, MayweatherPromo, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromotions, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO.

Boxing, Olimpiiki

Three Fighter Locker stable members competing in The Olympics

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Boston (June 6, 2021) – Ryan Roach’s Fighter Locker managerial company will have three representatives competing in Tokyo this summer in the Summer Olympic Games.

Colombian light flyweight Yuberjan “El Tremendo” Martinez, who captured a silver medal at the 2018 Olympics in Brazil, is currently rated fourth in the world by AIBA. His main opposition figures to be Artur Hovhannisyan (Armenia), Oscar Collazo (Puẹto Riko) ati Nodirjon Mirzakhmedov (Uzbekistan).

Martinez lost in the 2018 Olympic championship final to Uzbekistan’sHasanboy Dusmatov, 3-0.   A decorated amateur, Martinez won gold medals at the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games and 2018 South American Games, silver at the 2019 Pan American Games and 2014 Central American and Caribbean Games, and bronze at the 2017 World Amateur Championships.

Another 2-time Olympian is Dominican Republic lightweightLionel de los Santos, ti o ni won won No. 3 by AIBA behindLazaro Jorge Alvarez (Cuba) atiTsendbaster Erdenebat (Mongolia).  Santos, who was eliminated in the last Olympics in the preliminary round, is already 3-0 as a professional with three first-round knockouts.

Santos, 26, was a silver medalist at the prestigious Pan-American Games in 2019, where he lost to 3-time Pan-Am gold medalistLazaro Alvarez, the 3-time World amateur champion and 2-time Olympic bronze medalist.

The third Fighter Locker Olympian is Colombian middleweightJorge Vivas, a 33-year-old who won a silver medal at the 2015 Pan American ere.

“Adding these fighters to the Fighter Locker family was a huge accomplishment,” managerRyan Roach said. “These guys are the best of the best in the world. You’re talking less than one-percent chance of making an Olympic team and two of three of my fighters are going back to the Olympics for the second time.

“After the Olympics, I will quickly transition these fighters into the professional ranks, as long as they are healthy and so forth. We have four fight dates set for them and representing their homelands proudly. I am very honored to represent these young men and guide their careers.”

Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers include California super flyweightRocco "Nitorina Cal Kid" Santomauro (21-1, 6 KOs), Troy, NY ABF American West super lightweightRay Jay "Apanirun" Bermudez(12-0, 9 KOs), Toronto, Kanada welterweight West Haven, CT Super welterweightJimmy "Quiet Storm" Williams (17-5-2, 6 KOs), Super middleweight"Awọn Kayeefi" Shawn McCalman(7-0, 4 KOs), U.S. Army Super bantamweightDaniel Bailey, Jr. (5-0, 4 KOs), lightweightLeonel de los Santos(2-0, 2 KOs), a 2-akoko Dominican Republic Olympian, Boston featherweightTroy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), pro-debuting Dominican Republic welterweightJuan Solano, ati Ilu Salt Lake, 2016 Brazilian Olympic silver medalistYuberjen Martinez, Brazilian OlympianJorge Vivas, Colorado super middleweight Marvin “Too Much” Cordova, Jr. (23-2-1, 12 KOs), West Palm Beach, FL light heavyweight Robert Daniels, Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs),  Awọn arakunrin Utah, Super lightweightIgnacio Chairez (8-0-1, 5 KOs) ati iwuwoGabriel Chairez (3-0-1, 2 KOs).

ALAYE:

Wẹẹbu:  fighterlocker.com, punch4parkinsons.com

FACEBOOK:  /fighterlocker

TWITTER:  @RoachRyan

INSTAGRAM: @ RyanRoach82

NIPA ITAJI IJA: Ti iṣeto ni 2019, Alagadagodo Onija jẹ ile-iṣẹ ere idaraya ti okeerẹ ti o ṣakoso awọn afẹṣẹja amọdaju. Atimole Onija tun ṣe iranlọwọ lati ṣe iyasọtọ awọn afẹṣẹja nipa wiwa ohun wọn pẹlu iṣẹ adani ida-ọgọrun kan. Alagadagodo Onija ko gbagbọ gaan ninu awọn awoṣe ṣiṣẹ. O gbagbọ ninu awọn awoṣe ti o dara ju ti ajọṣepọ ni iṣipopada.

Alagadagodo Onija nlo awọn igbesẹ ẹda mẹrin nitori o gbagbọ ninu “ipilẹ jẹ ohun gbogbo”: 1. ogbon loyun, 2. idasilẹ ẹda, 3. Fi igberaga ṣe idajọ, 4. sharply targeted.

Boxing, adalu ti ologun ona, New England njà

NEF TO DEBUT IN NEW HAMPSHIRE; WELTERWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT ANNOUNCED

Fi kan ọrọìwòye

FUN lẹsẹkẹsẹ Tu: Milford, New Hampshire (June 7, 2021) - New England njà (NEF) announced today that the fight promotion will return with its next event, "NEF 44: Back in Black,” on August 21, 2021.  The show will originate from the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire and will feature a mix of both mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and kickboxing fights. It will be NEF’s long-awaited debut in the Granite State, and it will also be the promotion’s first event since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in the spring of 2020.

NEF’s previously-scheduled event, “NEF 43: Rampage,” which was postponed indefinitely due to the pandemic, is still awaiting a rescheduled date at the Collins Center for the Arts at UMaine Orono. NEF executives hope that date will be sometime later in the fall, but at press time they were still waiting on a decision from the Combat Sports Authority of Maine on re-opening the regulation of MMA and boxing events in the state without restrictions.

“Fighters and fans have waited long enough,” declared NEF promoter and co-owner Nick DiSalvo. “With Maine not fully open for combat sports events yet, the Hampshire Dome and the New Hampshire Boxing Commission presented the perfect opportunity to get fighters back in the cage and active again before summer was over.”

NEF further announced today the first fight confirmed for the “NEF 44” card in Milford would be an amateur welterweight title contest. Duncan “The Highlander” Smith (5-3), who has held the promotion’s 170-pound championship since June 2018, is scheduled to defend against number-one-contender Mike “All Class” Bezanson (5-0).

“Coming out of COVID we’re going to find out who really wants it and is serious about accelerating in the sport,"Wi NEF àjọ-eni ati matchmaker Matt Peterson. “Who was working during quarantine, grinding away in their basements and garages and backyards and getting better while the world was shut down? Duncan and Bezanson both believe they are those guys and we’re going to find out on August 21st. These are two of the best in the Northeast welterweight division and I can’t wait to see which one proves that they are ready to punch through into the professional division before the end of 2021.”

Reigning champion Duncan Smith is a perfect 3-0 in the NEF cage. His last defense of the title was at “NEF 38” in April 2019 when he defeated John Tefft (2-1) via unanimous decision. Smith represents Evolution Athletix based in Saco, Maine.

“I’ve never felt more complete and confident in all aspects of living,"Wi Smith. “I am extremely excited to showcase my skills against a game opponent before I enter the pro ranks. A lot can change in two years.”

Undefeated Mike Bezanson is regarded by many as one of the most exciting competitors on the entire New England scene. He is known for his flashy striking style and explosive finishes. Bezanson represents Team Kaze of Lancaster, New Hampshire.

“I’ve been sitting like a caged lion this last year because of COVID,” stated Bezanson when reached for comment. “Waiting eagerly for everything to open up just like everyone else. I’m very excited to be able to get back in there to perform for everyone!  I can assure you this will be the same game plan as all my previous fights. I’m going in there for two reasons, to knock out whoever is in front of me and walk out with a belt over my shoulder.”

“With everything opening up and restrictions being lifted, there is a lot to get excited about,” said Bezanson’s coach and Kaze Dojo owner Greg Williams. “That being said, nothing excites me more than seeing Mike Bezanson bringing his unique brand of violence back to the NEF cage! He is a rare talent and I believe he will eventually realize himself on the highest level. Another amateur belt is just icing on the cake. We all look forward to seeing New England’s best amateur 170 prospect and how he has evolved in the past year!"

Tickets for “NEF 44: Back in Black” are on sale now atwww.NewEnglandFights.com/Tickets/.  The hybrid MMA and kickboxing event will take place at the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire on Saturday, August 21, 2021, pẹlu kan Belii-akoko ti 7 pm.

Nipa New England njà

New England njà ("NEF") ni a ija iṣẹlẹ ni igbega ile. Iṣẹ NEF ni lati ṣẹda awọn iṣẹlẹ didara ti o ga julọ fun awọn onija ati awọn onijakidijagan bakanna. NEF ká executive egbe ni o ni sanlalu iriri ni ija ogun idaraya isakoso, isele gbóògì, media ajosepo, tita, ofin ati ipolongo.

Boxing

The Unnatural Return of JD “The Natural” Chapman

Fi kan ọrọìwòye

June 4, 2021, Fort Smith, Arkansas—In a year of surprising boxing returns, nothing is more surprising than the return of retired heavyweight contender JD “The Natural” Chapman (29-0).


Born John David Chapman in March of 1983, Chapman did not fight as an amateur. Dipo, he started fighting in Toughman Contest competitions before he turned pro in 2002. He chose the name “The Natural” as Chapman hails from Arkansas, “The Adayeba State”.


JD did many of his early professional fights close to home, namely as part of the Slugout Series promoted by Stacy “Goodnight” Goodson. Goodson and Scott Hirsch, who were managing Chapman, built Chapman into a heavyweight contender.


In the process, Chapaman accumulated 29 AamiEye ati 26 knockouts. He beat several notable contenders and gatekeepers. His most notable opponents were Chicago-based Edward Gutierrez who was 15-0-1 coming into the bout, New York veteran John Carlo who possessed a 14-1 gba, and fellow undefeated Mid-West prospect Matt Hicks 7-0.

Chapman also captured several regional heavyweight titles including the IBF Southern Regional title, the North American Boxing Council title, the WBC Latino title and the Arkansas State title. Just when it seemed that Chapman was at the cusp of stardom, he hung it all up and rode into the sunset.

At the time of his retirement Chapman was an up and coming contender, and a darling of the boxing press. He received tremendous coverage and exposure in the boxing press as a heavyweight prospect, and was featured on national television. Siwaju, Chapman was rated by just about every major sanctioning body including the lineal sanction body, the WBC, which gave him a World Rating of 14.

Chapman will return on an untelevised club show this Saturday, June 5, 2021, and in a fight close to where it all begun in his home state of Arkansas. Chapman was called in as a last minute replacement opponent to fight Tony “Kryptonite” Lopez at the Springdale Convention Center.
It will be a clash of big men. Chapman weighed in at 294 lbs, while his opponent Lopez weighed in at 259. It will be a battle of big men as Chapman is 6’5” while Lopez is 6’6”.

Although he has had only two professional boxing fights, Lopez is a veteran pugilist with nearly a 100 fights under his belt, spanning multiple combat sports disciplines, Adalu ologun Arts, kickboxing and bare knuckle fighting.

Said JD, “I was only offered the fight on Thursday but decided to take it anyway. Even though I’ve been off for so long, I was already training for a July event, and I think I’m ready enough. I accepted the fight with such short notice because I just could not pass on the opportunity to get back in the ring. I did not realize how much I missed fighting.”

In his prime, Chapman had some high profile trainers, pẹlu Michael Moorer, Jeff Mayweather and Norman Wilson. Lọwọlọwọ, he is trained by former MMA fighter Brian Foster and Chapman’s return is being guided by Edward Mendy of Lion Heart Boxing Productions.

Boxing, Mayweather ni igbega, Asiko Iworan, Showtime Boxing

MAYWEATHER vs. PAUL PAY-PER-VIEW UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

Fi kan ọrọìwòye

(Photo Ike: Amanda Westcott / IWỌN NIPA)

Featuring Badou Jack, Dervin Colina, Jarrett Hurd and Luis Arias

Die! Former NFL Star Chad Johnson Ahead of Boxing Debut Against Brian Maxwell

Fighters Competing on Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV® Undercard Preview Respective Showdowns Taking Place This Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens

TẹNIBI fun Awọn fọto lati Amanda Westcott / Showtime

TẹNIBI Fun awọn fọto lati Soan Michael Ham /

Mayweather ni igbega

Miami(June 4, 2021) – Fighters competing on the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV undercard previewed their respective showdowns during a final press conference Friday before they enter the ring this Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Friday’s press conference featured two-division championBadou Jackati unbeatenDervin Colina, who meet in the 10-round light heavyweight co-main event, and former unified champion“Swift” Jarrett Hurdand veteran contenderLuis Arias, who square off in a 10-round attraction.

Also participating in the press conference was former NFL starChad Johnsonand versatile fighterBrian Maxwell, as Johnson makes his boxing debut in a special exhibition against Maxwell to kick off the pay-per-view telecast at 8 p.m. ATI / 5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Friday from the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry:

Jack BADOU

“I’m just thankful that I’m still fighting on Sunday night. Now we have a new opponent and it’s going to be the same outcome. I’m in great shape and I can’t wait.

“Colina is just another guy. I respect him for coming in and stepping up as a late replacement. But I was going to win this fight on Sunday whether it was Pascal or anyone.

“I’m very frustrated about Jean Pascal. But I’m a pro and I can adjust no matter who is in front of me. I’m disappointed because I won the first fight against Pascal and I waited 18 months to get my revenge.

“I have a little anger that might get taken out on Colina, but it’s nothing personal, just business that I’m here to take care of on Sunday night.

“I don’t really care about the title too much, I really just cared about getting that revenge against Pascal. I waited so long for this and I could have taken different fights while I waited.

“He’s an undefeated guy so he’s going to come in here with a lot of confidence looking to show off his power. We’ll be ready though regardless how he comes into the fight. I had great sparring like always, so I’m prepared for what he’s going to bring.”

DERVIN COLINA

“I’d like to thank Team Badou Jack for the opportunity. Eleyi jẹ ohun ti emi o ṣe. I was born for this. Come Sunday you guys will see what I do.

“I was scheduled to fight June 11 on a different card. The fight came a little bit earlier on June 6. But I’m ready to fight and there are no excuses for this fight. I’m coming to win at all costs. And you’ll see what I do on Sunday.

“I respect Badou and what he’s done in this sport, but I know that I have everything I need to shock the world come Sunday night.

“I have nothing to lose and that makes me dangerous. I’m going to leave everything in the ring and announce to the whole world that I’m a fighter you’re going to be hearing from.”

Itọju Jarett

“Everyone knows I have unfinished business at 154-pounds. I’m not looking past Arias though. This fight is just a stop at middleweight because I’m going back down to take care of that business.

“We’ve had an amazing training camp with my new trainer Kay Koroma in Colorado Springs. I have a chip on my shoulder. I think a lot of people forgot who I was. I had the best resume in the weight class. Come Sunday, I’m going to remind everyone who I am.

“It’s always strictly business and it’ll be the same on Sunday. Arias is obsessed with my weight and thinks I’m struggling. But he needs to focus on what he needs to do on Sunday night.

“I don’t know where I’m rated right now, but I’m the best fighter at 154 poun. Showing that to the world is the goal on Sunday.

“We just took it back to the basics in training camp with my coach Kay Koroma. You can always learn more in the sport.

“I’ve been boxing for 15 years now and coach Koroma just helped me evolve the things I already knew. He’s got me not just coming forward and using my strength, but moving around and boxing a little bit.”

LUIS ARIAS

“I think the narrative is they needed an opponent for Jarrett Hurd, and I wasn’t looking so great lately. But people tend to forget I was 18-0 before I got my first blemish. When I was with Floyd Mayweather, Mo ti wà 9-0 and that’s when I was most comfortable. That’s the mentality I’m taking into this fight.

“I’ve been around Floyd since December. I’ve been in Vegas training in the altitude, just like Hurd. I’m in tip-top shape for this fight and he still has to figure out how he’s going to fight.

“Now the boxing world is going to be watching this fight. I’m going to be on my Ps and Qs and he won’t have to look for me. He will have to pick and choose once he gets hit on Sunday what style he wants to fight.

“This is a must-win for me. This is a great name for my resume. I haven’t ducked anyone. I’ve taken every name that’s been brought to me. When his name came up I said absolutely. I’m ready and I’m an old-school fighter. I’d fight you in this backyard, that backyard, any backyard. On Sunday it will show.

“He’s the one who has got the issue with the weight. The fight doesn’t really make much sense at 160 because he’s not ranked and wants to go back down to 154. But it’s too big of an opportunity and too big of a card to complain about the weight. We’re going to put the gloves on and whatever he weighs, he weighs. This is going to be the best fight on the card.”

CHAD JOHNSON

“I feel really good. I’ve been using boxing to prepare for football throughout the years, but I’ve never done it to this magnitude. To prepare for an actual fight, is something new. I’m facing a guy who does this for a living, so I’m not taking this lightly at all.

“I was always nervous before every kickoff. So I’d be a fool to say I’m not nervous going into something where I’m out of my element.


“One thing I’m extremely good at, is when there’s lights, cameras and a crowd, is going in there and entertaining.

“I’ve been working with Jorge Masvidal a little bit, but the last few weeks have been in Houston with Jermall and Jermell Charlo. That’s where most of my work has been. I’ve been doing everything possible to make sure I look the part Sunday night.

“I’m out of my element, so of course I’m approaching this fight humbly. He’s coming to knock my head off. Football is something I did all my life, that’s why I walked the way I did. I can’t be arrogant and take this fight lightly.”

BRIAN MAXWELL

“I don’t know how my name came up for this fight. But like everyone has said, ‘Who is Brian Maxwell?’ That’s been a trending topic on every social media. Ṣugbọn ohun ti gboju le won? Loni, you all know who Brian Maxwell is. And I’m excited about this. It’s a perfect matchup for me. It’s a perfect matchup for Chad. The best of both worlds. Coming from a fan. My hashtag on social media has become ‘Idols Become Rivals.’ And this is the perfect time and the perfect moment for me and him. Like I told him over the phone, I’m a huge fan. But the fanboy has gone out the window. Now we have to entertain and that’s what we’re going to do.

“This is an exhibition, so we are coming to entertain the fans and put on a show. But at the same time, we are two men who are coming in front of each other and have to fight. No matter the outcome, we’re going to put on a great fight.

“I’ve followed this man since Day 1. I know his every move. I’ve modeled myself after him and it’s like fighting myself. I’m going to be humble about this and we are going to put on a show for everyone.

“That has been the question, what round am I going to knock him out. I’m here to entertain and to have fun. This is a great opportunity.”

Leonard ELLERBE, CEO ti Mayweather ni igbega

“We have a stacked undercard on Sunday night. I’ve promoted tons of events and this is one that I’m really looking forward to, because it gives us an array of great fights in addition to a little something different.

“I’m really looking forward to this card. South Florida has been buzzing since we announced this event. We can’t wait for the great crowd and the tons of fans tuning in from all around the world.

“When I think of Chad Johnson, he’s a showman. He does so many different things really well. He’ll be making his foray into the boxing industry in what should be a terrific bout against Brian Maxwell. Chad is looking to possibly steal the show, which is what he’s known for doing.

“Former unified champ Jarrett Hurd is a great champion and I’ve known him for many years. He’s looking to get back and make his mark where he left off. He’s let it be known that after this fight, he’s going to take control of the 154-pound division again. He’ll be up against Mayweather Promotions own Luis Arias and I’ve had the opportunity to witness Arias preparation firsthand. I can tell you right now he’s more than prepared to upset Jarrett.

“In the co-main, I can’t say enough about Badou Jack. He’s a great champion in the ring and a terrific example outside of the ring. He does so much to help people around the world and Floyd and I are really proud of him. We know he’s going to put on a great show Sunday.

“When it comes to this undercard, the fans are in for a great treat. It’s going to be nothing but action from top to bottom.”

#        #        #

ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. LOGAN PAUL

Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is a special exhibition bout presented by Mayweather Promotions, FANMIO and Mavathltcs that will take place on Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The telecast, which is being produced by SHOWTIME PPV, yoo air ifiwe ibere ni 8 p.m. ATI / 5 p.m. PT and can be purchased now atSHOWTIME.com atiFANMIO.com. The undercard will feature two-division world champion Badou Jack in a 10-round contest against the undefeated Dervin Colina, plus former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd against Luis Arias in a 10-round bout and in a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in a four-round exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell.

Fun alaye diẹ ẹ ibewobit.ly/mayweatherpaul,  www.SHO.com/sports, www.FANMIO.com. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, MayweatherPromo, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromotions, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO.

Boxing, Mayweather ni igbega, Asiko Iworan, Showtime Boxing

TWO-DIVISION CHAMPION BADOU JACK TO FACE UNBEATEN DERVIN COLINA IN MAYWEATHER VS. PAUL SHOWTIME PPV

Fi kan ọrọìwòye
MIAMI – (June 3, 2021) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack yoo koju undefeated Dervin Colina in a 10-round light heavyweight bout that serves as the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV co-main event this Sunday, June 6 from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Colina replaces Jean Pascal, who was originally slated to face Jack before failing a pre-fight drug test.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin live at 8 p.m. ATI / 5 p.m. PT and will feature former unified 154-pound champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd mu lori Luis Arias in a 10-round showdown, plus former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in an exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

Born in Stockholm, Jack (22-3-3, 13 KOs), who represented his father’s home country of Gambia in the 2008 Olimpiiki, now lives in Las Vegas. Jack won the 168-pound world title with a majority decision against Anthony Dirrell in 2015 and successfully defended the belt three times before being handed a hard-fought majority draw against James DeGale in one of 2017’s best fights. In his first bout at 175 poun, Jack stopped Nathan Cleverly to pick up the WBA light heavyweight title before fighting to a majority draw against then WBC champion Adonis Stevenson in May 2018. After dropping a narrow fight to Pascal in 2019, Jack’s most recent outing saw him earn a unanimous decision over Blake McKernan in November 2020.

The 33-year-old Colina (15-0, 13 KOs) lives in Medellin, Colombia, and is a native of Venezuela. He steps in on short notice to make his United States debut against Jack. Colina has competed at both super middleweight and light heavyweight in recent years and is riding a six-fight knockout streak into June 6. Colina has been training with renowned coach Stacy McKinley for the last two months in Pompano Beach, Florida.

# # #

ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. LOGAN PAUL
Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is a special exhibition bout presented by Mayweather Promotions, FANMIO and Mavathltcs that will take place on Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The telecast, which is being produced by SHOWTIME PPV, yoo air ifiwe ibere ni 8 p.m. ATI / 5 p.m. PT and can be purchased now at SHOWTIME.com ati FANMIO.com. The undercard will feature two-division world champion Badou Jack in a 10-round contest against the undefeated Dervin Colina, plus former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd against Luis Arias in a 10-round bout and in a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in a four-round exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell.

Fun alaye diẹ ẹ ibewo bit.ly/mayweatherpaul, www.SHO.com/sports, www.FANMIO.com. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, MayweatherPromo, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromotions, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO.
Boxing

DJ Zamora III Scores TKO in USA Debut

Fi kan ọrọìwòye
Las fegasi, NV (June 1, 2021) – 18-year-old featherweight sensation, “The War Machine” DJ Zamora III (4-0, 3 KOs), was impressive in his USA debut, scoring a third round TKO against Brandon Trout, an MMA fighter, who was making his pro debut in boxing. The event took place at the Outlaw Saloon in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and was promoted by Iwon 4 Pound Promotions.

Zamora, who is managed by Bob Santos, showed great ring generalship as he dictated the pace of the fight from the opening round. Eja, a southpaw, did his best to apply pressure but was denied as Zamora kept his distance with an educated jab. Ni yika mẹta, Zamora, who is also a southpaw, caught Trout with a damaging right hook that stunned him. Zamora saw that Trout was hurt and unloaded a flurry of punches, forcing the referee to stop the bout in the third round.

“It felt great to make my USA debut against a tough opponent like Trout,” said Zamora III, who is trained by his dad, Demler Zamora II. “I’m happy that I was able to get some good rounds in. My first three fights have been in Mexico, so it was nice to fight in my home country. I’m ready to take my career to the next level.”

“My son showed a lot of maturity in this fight,” stated Demler Zamora II, father and trainer of DJ III. “Trout was not an easy fight. This kid was in great shape and he was coming. I was pleased that DJ kept his composure when Trout was coming in aggressive. My son stuck to the game plan and caught him with a nice check hook, and finished him off like a true pro.”

“DJ is a very skilled fighter with a tremendous amount of talent.” Bob Santos wi. “You never know what you got in a fighter until he steps up against tough opposition. This was a good test to see where he’s at and he passed with flying colors. My next move for him is to get him an opportunity on a PBC card. I’m hoping he can fight four more times by the end of the year.”

Awọn Barrientes Twins, Chavez ati Angel, as well as super middleweight Angel Chavez, who were scheduled to fight on this card, had their fights cancelled due to their opponents coming in ten pounds overweight. Angel Chavez’ opponent never showed up.
Boxing, Granite Chin

“Breakout” Possible swan song for Steve Vukosa, Statement time for Mike Marshall

Fi kan ọrọìwòye
KIAKIA, Ibi. (June 1, 2021) – The main event on the June 26th “Breakout” card, gbekalẹ nipasẹ Granite Chin igbega, matches two New England heavyweights heading in opposite directions, Steve "The Gentle Giant” Vukosa (13-1, 5 KOs) ati “Fly” Mike Marshall (5-1, 4 KOs).

The evening card of another Granite Chin day-night doubleheader (separate admissions) is headlined by the 10-round main event for the vacant NABA United States Heavyweight Championship between Vukosa (13-1, 5 KOs) who will possibly be fighting for the final time – win, padanu tabi fa — and reigning New England heavyweight champion Marshall.

Vukosa, fighting of out Quincy, MA, is a former WBC U.S. Heavyweight Champion, which he captured in 2019 when he won an 8-round unanimous decision against Joe Cusumano (18-2, 16 KOs). During his 20-year pro boxing career, Vukosa’s gained invaluable experience sparring at the famed Wild Card Boxing gym in Los Angeles as a sparring partner for world champions James Toney, Evander Holyfield ati Wladimir Klitschko. He’s also driven a bus for the past 15 years for the Mass Bay Transportation Authority, ti o bere ni 4 p.m. and finishing around 2 a.m., after which he does his run in. But he’s now 44 with a wife and three children and his boxing clock is ticking.

“I’m still fighting because I love it,” Vukosa explained. “It’s hard to walk away from something you’re good at. This one fight and it could be the end. My wife will be happy. My body is starting to fall apart: ọwọ, back and knees. They’ve been killing me. I used to be quick and fast, now I’m slow. I just want to have a good fight, win, or lose, but I want to win. I really enjoyed by days at Wild Card, those sparring sessions were like real fights, and my amateur days with trainer Jimmy Farrell.

“I saw my opponent when he won the New England title, I was impressed. (olugbeleke)Chris (Traietti) called asking if I’d fight him, I accepted because I like to fight and a good challenge. I’m looking forward to the fight.”

The 36-year-old Marshall, fighting out of Danbury, CT, has won his last two fights, both on Granite Chin shows at the same venue as his upcoming match with Vukosa, including his N.E. title-winning performance last November against Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe. Marshall isn’t looking at his opponent as over the hill because of Vukosa’s advance age, but he does plan to make a statement that, hopefully, will get him positive exposure outside of New England.

“I know he’s a veteran pugilist, a pupil of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, who was an awesome fighter in his own right,” Marshall remarked. “This is boxing, ohunkohun ti o le ṣẹlẹ. My job is to prepare for anything. I’ve had the best quality sparring in house with the No. 1 amateur heavyweight, Fernely Felix, Jr. My team works very hard, My manger, A.J. Galante, asked me to be sharper in my last fight (3-round KO of Tracey Johnson this past April), so I did what he asked me to do. My cornerman Austin Ampeoquio keeps me sharp with the mitts, and my head coaches David McDonough ati Bennie ‘The Jet’ Little do a good job pushing me as well.

“I know Steve comes to fight and I’m looking forward to an exciting night of boxing. We are two warriors going toe-to-toe in the ring, putting on a show for boxing fans who really enjoy the sport of boxing, not this YouTube celebrity garbage that’s going on right now.”

“Steve ran into some bad luck after the Cusumano win,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti commented. “A few fights fell through, then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. We literally had a fight in Germany fall out the day we were set to leave for the airport. After that we lost a lot of the steam from the Cusamano fight and kind of had to reassess. He picked up a tune-up fight a few months ago, but we now have to either regain some momentum by winning a fight like this or finally have Steve ride off into the sunset. This fight with Marshall will be no picnic. He has burst upon the local scene with some impressive performances.

“Like many coming to the fight, I have no idea how this fight shakes out, which makes for a great main event. One thing I will say, despite what Steve like to make people believe, in the event he wins this fight, it won’t be his final fight. Zero chance of that! If Marshall wins, I have no doubt he will get a television fight in the very near future on a major network.”

In the 8-round co-featured event, former N.E. heavyweight champion Rolfe (5-2-1, 4 KOs), ti Fairfield, ME, will takes on Mexican challenger Jose Humberto “Olimpico” Corral (20-26, 12 KOs) for the vacant ABF Atlantic heavyweight title.

New England welterweight champion Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (12-1, 6 KOs), fighting out of Holbrook, MA, will defend his title in an 8-round match against upset-mindedTyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (13-14-4 (9 KOs).

Undefeated Holyoke, MA welterweight Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (4-0, 3 KOs) will be in his first scheduled 6-rounder versus Anthony Andreozzi (0-1), ti Swansea, MA. Indianapolis junior welterweight Dewayne Wisdom will be in his 66th pro fight against Nelson “Chino” Perez (2-0, 2 KOs) in a 6-rounder.

Also slated to be in action on the undercard, all in 4-round bouts, is Weymouth, MA welterweight Eric “Gladiator” Goff (1-0) la. Aquilando Brandao (0-3), Holyoke junior middleweight Carlos Abel Castillo (1-0, 1 KO) la. Jay Gregory (0-3), Woburn, MA middleweight Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (2-0, 2 KOs) la. Rodrigo Almeida (2-10, 2 KOs), Framingham, MA light heavyweight Saul “Spider” Almeida (0-13-4) la. Pro-debuting Steve Sumpter, Lawrence, MA junior lightweight Kevin Rodriguez (0-1) oju Ryan Venable (2-4), undefeated Puerto Rican Super middleweight Jelame Garcia (7-0, 6 KOs) la. Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (12-47-2, 8 KOs), and Worcester’s (MA) 3-time New England Golden Gloves champion Demek “Hightower” Edmonds (1-0, 1 KO) la. Pro-debuting Wallace Nass Silva.

The pro segment of the afternoon’s Pro-Am card will be headlined by ABF Atlantic Cruiserweight Champion Yan “Wild Thing” Pellerin (11-1, 5 KOs) defending his title against Lewiston, ME challenger Cristiano Pedro, fighting out by way of Angola, in an 8-round fight.

Other pro fights, all 4-rounders, include Canadian heavyweight Alexis Barriere (1-0, 1 KO) la. New York’s pro-debuting Andrew Nolan, Methuen (MA), ina heavyweightAndrew Perez in his pro debut vs. Jesus Cintron (1-18-2), Springfield (MA) Super lightweight Ian “Dinamite” Garcia (0-0-1) la. Andy Aiello (1-4-1), of Bridgewater, MA, New York light heavyweight Scott Lampert (1-2, 1 KO) la. Yhago Goncalves (0-3), of Portsmouth (ME) by way of Brazil, and Springfield’s pro-debuting super middleweightLaurent Humes vs.pro-debuting Philipe Martins, of Marlborough, MA.

The inaugural “Granite Chin Invitational” tournament, pitting some of the best amateur boxers in New England in the semifinals round, in the USA Boxing-sanctioned event during the afternoon portion of the day-night doubleheader. The semifinals winners will advance to the tournament’s championship final August 28th at New England Sports Center.

Some of the top N.E. amateur boxers expected to compete include 2021 USA National Championships gold medalist Arika Skoog, the 2-time N.E. Golden Gloves champion out of Newton (MA); 2-time N.E. Golden ibọwọ asiwaju Tashawn Ward, a featherweight from Providence (RI); ati awọn middleweights James Maner, 2019 N.E. Golden Gloves champion from Providence, and 2-time N.E. Golden ibọwọ asiwaju Mike Fontanez, of Nashua (N.H).

Tiketi ni o wa lori tita ati ki o wa ni owole ni $25.00 (Day Show) / $40.00 (Night Show) for general seating (unassigned). Unassigned ringside seating will be available at $35.00 per seat during the day show. The night show will offer ringside tables (assigned and seats 4) fun $300.00 and are available to purchase online at www.ticketriver.com(Search: Granite Chin Invitational for the day show, Breakout for night show).

Ilẹkun ìmọ ni 12:15 p.m. ATI ati 7:15 p.m. ATI (night) with the first bouts, lẹsẹsẹ, ni 12:30 p.m. ATI ati 7:30 p.m. ATI.

ALAYE:
Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin
Boxing

McAllister KOs Djarbeng – Adds a WBO Title To His Collection of Championship Accolades

Fi kan ọrọìwòye
Ringside Iroyin: Gianluca Di Caro
Photographs courtesy of Alistair Campbell




Six time, Five Division World Champion Lee McAllister not only successfully defended the Professional Boxing Council (PBC) Intercontinental title he secured in Accra, Ghana back in March this year, but also added the vacant World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Africa Zone Championship belt to his huge collection, following a fourth knockout of Ghanaian Richmond Djarbeng on the LET BATTLE COMMENCE IV event that took place at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen on Saturday 29th May 2021.


Fifty lucky fans were ringside to watch the UK’s most decorated boxer in action, as LET BATTLE COMMENCE IV was the first boxing ‘test’ event in Scotland, which hopefully will lead to more fans, preferably up to full capacity, being able to attend boxing events from next month as the pandemic restrictions are relaxed further.


Millions more tuned in to watch the live and free to view the Globally broadcast event on FITE, VIVA LIVE, PPV LIVE as well as the numerous digital and linear channels that also carried the live broadcast.


There wasn’t that much action initially in the first round, so much so that world renowned Championship Referee Roger Barnor stepped in and ‘encouraged’ the protagonists to stop tentatively testing and throw some real punches in anger, which they did in style during the dying seconds of the round.


The first minute of the second stanza contained more action than the entire first round, albeit much of it being testing shots, well that is until around mid-point when McAllister burst into action, letting rip with a succession of blistering shots to send Djarbeng down to the canvas.


Have to say I was mightily surprised that Djarbeng was able to beat the count, ṣugbọn o ṣe, and on the restart the ‘Aberdeen Assassin’ calmly strode over and let rip another flurry of scintillating powerful Exocets to body and head to send the Ghanaian to the deck for a second and surely final time – sugbon ko, much to everyone’s surprise Djarbeng, ti o wà kedere ni kan pupo ti irora, once again managed to make it to his feet before Roger Barnor finished the count.


On the restart once again McAllister went on the attack, yet somehow Djarbeng managed to survive the onslaught and even let rip with some shots of his own.


Round three was an edgy affair, with both fighters working off their jabs, Djarbeng proved to be quite durable, I for one was surprised when he shrugged off some seriously vicious shots to the head as the round progressed.


The fourth was by far the best round so far, action wise, and once again the Ghanaian showed just how tough he was as once again he survived some seriously powerful shots, to both body and head, that clearly hurt him.


As the round progressed McAllister landed more big shots, after which Djarbeng would grab hold of the increasingly aggressive McAllister. This tactic didn’t do the Ghanaian many favours as the Aberdeen Assassin just kept letting rip and the inevitable happened, Djarbeng crashed to the deck for a third time following a huge right-left combination to the head, this time though Djarbeng just couldn’t rise to his feet and was clearly in a lot of pain. Referee Roger Barnor waived the fight off with just twelve seconds of the round remaining.


WBO Africa’s Samir Captan presented both Championship belts as PBC President Russell Jaques was busy co-commentating alongside Sportanarium Radio’s Trevor Lake.


Preceding McAllister-Djarbeng was a fantastic lightweight contest between Denny’s Kevin Traynor and Tilbury Village’s debuting Jay Cartwright, who stepped in with just a day notice after Traynor’s original opponent Nicaraguan Jose Aguilar failed to gain entry into the UK after flying in from Spain.


The first round was phenomenal, it was all action with both protagonists giving everything for virtually every second of the round. I couldn’t split them and neither could referee Roger Barnor.


Round two was another full on war, boy oh boy did these warriors go for it! However the pace had a seriously detrimental affect on Cartwright, he was out on his feet as he headed back to his corner at the end of the round, so much so that his corner summoned over Roger Barnor and retired his charge in the corner.


Plaudits to Jay Cartwright, he was expecting to be making his professional debut in Colchester on the 31st July 2021, yet bravely agreed to take the fight at very short notice, even though he had not had any time to prepare fully for this contest.


The third bout of the evening see Aberdeen’s Nathan Beattie in action against another late replacement, Belfast’s Marty Kayes who stepped in when Nicaraguan Christian Narvaez, who like Aguilar was refused entry to the UK after flying in from Spain as a replacement for original opponent Dundalk’s Michael Kelly.


At this point I think I should mention that it was Kayes’ wedding anniversary the following day and somehow got his wife Julia’s permission to cancel their planned evening out to take the fight, I think that may just set the scene perfectly.


Kayes was clearly in the mood for a good scrap, right from the opening bell of the contest he took control of centre ring and just kept forcing Beattie onto the back foot before letting rip with shot after shot.


It really wasn’t that much different in the second, don’t get me wrong Beattie landed the best shots by far in each round, just not enough of them to secure either of the rounds.


Beattie started to get more proactive in the third and again landed the most telling shots, but still it was the Irishman that was dictating the proceedings, the same in the fourth and final round.


At the end of four action packed rounds Nate Dog’s fans were clearly expecting their hero to secure the win or at worse a draw, but when Referee Lee Murtagh’s scorecards were announced they fell into a stunned silence as they declared a 40-38 points victory in favour of Marty Kayes


The second fight of the night pitted Aberdeen’s Craig Dick (2-0-0) against Essex based Lithuanian hard-man Tomas Vaicickas (1-2-0) in a four round Heavyweight contest.


Dick is a renowned heavy hitter and Vaicickas is extremely durable, so nobody could or would have expected the contest to come to it’s conclusion after just 47 -aaya, but it did, following Dick letting rip with a huge powerful hook to the body that sent the Lithuanian to the canvas just twenty seconds into the round.


I was surprised when Vaicickas made the count and continued but not that surprised he was to return to the deck seconds later following another big hook to the ribs.


The opening contest featured local big hitting youngster Liam Allan in action against Belfast’s Darren Burns


What a cracking opening round, both lads vying to control centre ring, some very tasty bombs were thrown by both protagonists, a cracking round to watch.


Both lads started the second stanza more cautiously, Burns was the first to throw a big shot, but Allan, who is remarkably agile for a big lad, moved just enough to prevent it landing, Allan then took to the front foot backing up Burns before letting rip with a huge right to send the Irishman to the canvas.


Burns made the count, but on the restart Allan moved in and let rip with a big left, followed by a left-right combination that rocked Burns, Allan continued the assault with another powerful left-right to send Burns down for the second time .


Again Burns made the count, this time Allan stepped in on the restart and let rip with a massive right to send the tough as nails Irishman down to the canvas where he ended doubled up, Referee Lee Murtagh was so concerned he immediately waived the fight off and summoned Burns’ corner and the medical team to the ring.


I’m pleased to say the medical team wasn’t needed and the official time of the stoppage was one minute and fifty four seconds off the second round.


Have to say it was really great to be at an event with fans in attendance again, even though there was only fifty allowed, it may sound crazy but even though the fans were instructed by the authorities to stay seated and just offer polite clapping at the end of the fights, the atmosphere was so different from the ‘behind closed doors’ events that had preceded over the past year.


For reference, as I am sure a lot of people will be wondering how Lee Mcallister was eligible to compete for the WBO Africa region Championship, this was explained on the British & Irish Boxing Authority’s website on the result page, which states; It should be noted that Mr McAllister was eligible to compete for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Africa Championship due to his Ghana National Championship (and PBC Intercontinental Championship) victory over Collinson Korley on the 7th March 2021 in Accra, Ghana – it should also be noted Mr McAllister was eligible to compete for the Ghana National Championship as well as the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Africa Zone Championship due to family heritage.


Finally if you missed the live broadcast of LET BATTLE COMMENCE IV, you can still catch up as free to view replays are available on FITE athttps://www.fite.tv/watch/let-battle-commence-iv/2p9er/ – or check listings for replays on your local TV listings or if in UK the entire event will be available on demand via Sports Channel Network (Channel 265 on Freeview.YouView) from next weekend.
Boxing, Ijoba Boxing Awọn aṣaju-ija, Asiko Iworan, Showtime Boxing

NONITO DONAIRE MAKES HISTORY, CAPTURES WBC BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH FOURTH-ROUND KNOCKOUT

Fi kan ọrọìwòye

Subriel Matias and Gary Antuanne Russell Notch

Big Knockout Wins

A picture containing person, sport, Boxing, jumping Description automatically generated

TẹNIBI fun Awọn fọto lati Esteri Lin / Showtime

TẹNIBI for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions

Carson, Calif.(Le 29, 2021) -Nonito Donaire is champion once again. Fourteen years after he won his first world title, the “Filipino Flash” cemented his Hall of Fame credentials with a sensational fourth-round KO win overNordine Oubaalito capture the WBC World Bantamweight title Saturday night in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“The king has returned,” Donaire beamed afterward. “I just love the crowds. All my friends, ebi, all the boxing fans that came out thank you so much. You guys are wonderful.”

The 38-year-old Donaire (41-6, 27 KOs) is now the oldest world champion ever at 118-pounds. He accomplished it with the left hand that has been the calling card of his career as he dropped Oubaali (17-1, 12 KOs) three times in total.

“Being at this age is not the question, it’s about my performance,” said Donaire. “About my ability to grow. I believe it matters not what your age is, but how mentally strong you are. What I learned from the [Naoya] Inoue fight is that I’m back. I can still compete at this level. The whole time I was not fighting, I was learning. I’m ready for the next one.”

Following a feel-out first round, Donaire went to work in the second, walking Oubaali down and countering with thudding effect. Donaire scored the first knockdown early in the third, dropping Oubaali with his trademark counter left hook. The Frenchman rose on unsteady legs and Donaire pounced, landing more big shots until another left hook floored Oubaali just a split second before the round ended. Lẹẹkansi, Oubaali struggled to his feet, dazed yet willing to fight on.

The end came swiftly in the fourth. Donaire expertly maneuvered Oubaali around the ring, pinning him against the ropes where a left uppercut sent Oubaali crumpling to the canvas for a third and final time. Referee Jack Reiss immediately called it off. The official time of the stoppage was 1:52 of the fourth round.

“Three decades of being world champion. Nine-time world champion. That’s amazing,” said Donaire. “I came in here and I felt really good. Today I knew exactly what was going to happen. I knew exactly what I was going to do. I think I was just very focused in the gym. I was very, very focused. I just felt really good coming in and I was grateful to get this opportunity.

“Tonight was something that I had to prove to the world that I’m back and I’m stronger than ever. He was a very tough guy. I think ultimately for me, there was a level of should I be more patient? Or should I go for it? Something I learned in the Inoue fight was to go for the kill. And that’s exactly what I did. I was patient, but I knew he was hurt enough that I could take him out.”

Ni awọn àjọ-ẹya-ara, Puerto Rico káSubriel Matias (17-1, 17 KOs) delivered another power-punching display, breaking down previously-unbeatenBatyr Jukembayev (18-1, 14 KOs) until Jukembayev’s corner stopped the bout after eight riveting rounds.

“I think this is what everybody expected. Everybody knew it was going to be a great war,” said Matias. “This was going to end by knockout whether I was going to get knocked out or Jukembayev was going to get knocked out. I’m just glad it was me who knocked him out.”

Matias establishes himself as one of the best in a stacked division, but this latest win wasn’t easy. Kazakhstan’s Jukembayev came out strong, landing a right hook-right uppercut combination upstairs from his southpaw stance that got Matias’ attention in the first.

Jukembayev pushed the pace in the second. Matias began letting his hands go in the third, throwing in combination to the head and body. Both combatants were now fully warmed up, setting the stage for a fourth round that could be a candidate for “Round of the Year.”


It began when a hard left hook staggered Jukembayev and drove him to the canvas. Matias sought to close the show but Jukembayev held on, cleared his head and started landing his own shots. With a minute left in the stanza, Jukembayev stunned Matias with a left cross. Instead of clinching, Matias fought fire with fire, bringing the crowd out of their seats with toe-to-toe action until the bell sounded.

Matias never stopped coming forward. Following a one-sided sixth, Jukembayev returned to his corner with both eyes swelling shut. The back and forth ensued in the seventh as Jukembayev buzzed Matias with two right hooks toward the end of the round.

Matias returned to the driver’s seat in the eighth round, pounding away at Jukembayev with both fists. Ni lapapọ, he out-landed Jukembayev by 100 punches (234/608 si 134 /409) and was more accurate (38.5% si 32.8%). The accumulation of blows was enough to convince Jukembayev’s corner to request the bout be stopped.

“He knew he had nothing to lose. He came in and was doing everything strong,” said Matias. “He knew that all he could do was knock me out to win. I would have done the same thing. That’s a warrior’s heart and he has all my respect.

“After that fourth round, I mean he is a very competitive fighter, so it turned into a war after that point. My hands go up to him as well. O je kan nla ija. I definitely have had other opponents that were very good, but this is the one that has given me the hardest test.”

Ninu aṣii tẹlifisiọnu, Gary Antuanne Russell (14-0, 14 KOs) continued his ascent up the super lightweight ranks. The undefeated Russell became the first to stop the ruggedJovanie Santiago (14-2-1, 10 KOs), dominating Santiago until referee Sharon Sands halted the contest following the sixth round at the suggestion of Santiago’s corner.

“The objective is to get the man out as soon as possible and come out unscathed,” said Russell. “I just want to say that Santiago was a class-A opponent. A lot of people think he beat Adrien Broner. I want Adrien Broner now.”

With older brother and WBC World Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. working his corner, Gary Antuanne controlled the action from the opening bell. Awọn 2016 Olympian worked the jab and straight left behind the southpaw stance, snapping Santiago’s head back several times in the first.

Russell, 24, continued to land the left in the second and third. Early in the fourth, he followed up a straight left to the ribs with a short right hook upstairs that dropped Santiago to a knee. Puerto Rico’s Santiago gamely rose to his feet and survived the follow-up onslaught to make it out of the round.

“The importance to me is to execute round-by-round, and round-by-round, I was executing more and more. My father told me to go to the body, right hook upstairs. He was open to that,” said Russell.

Russell showed no signs of slowing despite being extended beyond four rounds for the first time in his pro career. The Capital Heights, Aṣalẹ. product battered Santiago in the sixth, landing punishing combinations throughout the frame. Asiko nigbamii, the bout was stopped.

“It’s definitely important to me to perform so I’m not just known as Gary Russell’s younger brother,” said Russell, ti o gbe 146 ti 444 punches (32.9%). “I come from an excellent background of fighters. We’re building a dynasty.

“How soon do I want to get back in the ring? If I could fight on the Deontay Wilder card, that would be great.”

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will replay Sunday, Le 30 ni 9 a.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and Monday, Le 31 ni 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handled blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer was David Dinkins, Jr., the Producer was Ray Smaltz and the Director was Chuck McKean. Three-time super bantamweight world champion Israel Vazquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna served as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

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