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boxing

Introducing Puerto Rican Heavyweight Jose Medina

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Winter Haven, FL (March 21, 2016) – As a young boy growing up in Puerto Rico, Jose Medina looked up to the same fighters that are forever etched in their rich boxing history.

 

From Felix Trinidad to Miguel Cotto and Juan Manuel Lopez, Medina had many outstanding fighters to admire. There was one major difference however. Medina was significantly larger than all of the greats that grew up on the boxing crazed island that sits 1,100 miles south of Key West.

 

At 6’3 260 lbs, Medina is more than 75 pounds bigger than the largest native Puerto Rican to capture a world title in Jose Torres. Those sizing up Medina before seeing him in action may question his conditioning but the 19-year-old is not just sheer bulk though. In the gym, stablemates called him “Kung Fu Panda” due to his shockingly impressive agility and nimbleness inside the squared circle.

 

As an amateur, Medina captured three Puerto Rican National Championships before relocating to Florida in 2015 where he captured the Florida State Police Athletic League (PAL) title along with Silver in the Paul Murphy Championships. He also quickly gained a large following, as the Orlando area has one of the largest Puerto Rican populations in the US.

 

However, that doesn’t mean there weren’t doubters.

 

“When he first came here, he never did strength training before,” said trainer Marco Fazzani. “People saw him when we first went into gyms and they thought he was a slouch because of his appearance. That until we got him in the ring and everybody realized Medina is no joke. Since he’s been training here, he grew two inches and became a lot physically stronger. We’re also working every day to improve his physique.”

 

On March 4, Medina made his professional debut at the A La Carte Event Pavilion in Tampa against Richard White. Admittedly nervous, Medina overcame the expected jitters that came with removing the headgear for the first time and scored a second round knockout.

 

Having gone through the White bout without incident, Medina is fighting for the second time in less than 30 days when he meets Todd Bradley of Brandon, FL in a four round bout as part of Mad Integrity Fight Sports’ “Bombs Away 5” Saturday, April 2at the Bayfront Hilton in St. Petersburg, FL. As a fighter who is still developing in many aspects, Medina understands the importance of staying busy and is excited rather than nervous for his second professional fight.

 

“I’m very thankful to be fighting on this card,” said Medina. “We’re expecting a great turnout on April 2. I’ve seen Bradley fight before but I never give my game plan away. Most importantly, I want to give my fans great entertainment and emerge victorious.”

 

Promoter Joey Orduna of Mad Integrity Fight Sports, who was admittedly surprised when seeing Medina in action, is looking forward to having him on the card.

 

“Jose has a ton of talent and he is definitely going to be a staple in the Tampa-St Petersburg area as he develops. He’s already got a very good fan base and as a heavyweight with speed and power, the amount of people that follow him will only grow. I’m excited to see him go to work on the 2nd and believe those that haven’t seen him before are in for a treat.”

 

The Medina-Bradley matchup is featured on a ten bout card promoted by Mad Integrity Fight Sports at the Bayfront Hilton in St Petersburg, FL. The card includes a number of Sunshine State scraps including the main event between welterweight Ali Tareh, 13-11-5 (6 KO’s) of Tampa against Juan Aguirre, 6-16-1, of Jacksonville in an eight rounder along with the highly anticipated lightweight matchup between St. Petersburg’s Jose “Lil’ Pacquiao” Resendez, 4-0 (2 KO’s), and Raul Chirino, 7-1 (3 KO’s), out of Miami. The card features a total of ten bouts and tickets from $35 are on sale now by calling 813-507-5110.

 

For more information and updates, please visit Facebook.com/Madintegrityfightsports.

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LaManna stops Mena in four in front of sold-out crowd at Claridge in Atlantic City

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Seldon & Pasciolla pick up Tri-State title belts; Rainone decisions Chalmers
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (March 21, 2016)–This past Saturday night, welterweight contender, Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna thrilled a sold-out crowd at The Claridge in Atlantic City when he scored  fourth round stoppage over Kendal Mena that highlighted a action-packed nine bout card.
The card was promoted by Rising Promotions and Vincent M. Ponte’s Gulfstream Promotions.
With all of the seats occupied, fans were jammed on the walls and they enjoyed LaManna’s performance, which was action-filled from the opening bell.
LaManna used hard right hands to continuously rock Mena.  In round one, LaManna set the tone by buckling Mena with one of those rights.
LaManna was sitting down on his punches to the point where he sent Mena’s mouthpiece firing out oh his mouth several times and finally in round three, referee David Fanciosi had to deduct a point from Mena.  LaManna continued to rock Mena with hard shots and had him wobbled throughout round four.  LaManna had Mena on the ropes and one more hard right hand pummeled into Mena and Franciosi stopped the bout at 2:23 of round four.
LaManna of Millville, NJ is 20-1 with eight knockouts.  Mena of San Cristobal, Dominican Republic is 20-4.
“It felt good to get the stoppage.  I can only see bigger and better things coming for my career,  I am only getting better and stronger, and I predict more knockouts to come,”  Said LaManna.  “I felt real composed and I knew he was hurt in the first round and I took my time to break him down and get him out.  Rising Promotions and Gulfstream Promotions has three more dates at The Claridge (May 27, September 17 and November 12) and I am still building.  I am still young and am taking my time to get where I want to be.”
Isiah Seldon (8-1) came back after a 33-month layoff with a six-round unanimous decision over Michael Mitchell to capture the Tri-State Super Middleweight title.
Seldon of Atlantic City almost had a stoppage in round one as he landed a hard flurry of punches and had Mitchell hurt on the ropes.  It looked like referee Mary Glover was stepping in to stop the fight, but she just separated the fighters.  Seldon got the best of the action over the game Mitchell and came home with the victory to the tune of 58-56 on all cards.
Dan Pasciolla (7-1-1) won the Tri-State Heavyweight title with a shutout six-round unanimous decision over comebacking former IBF Cruiserweight champion Imamu Mayfield (25-10-2)
Scores were 60-54 on all cards.
Popular Long Island welterweight Tommy Rainone (25-7-1) made his boardwalk debut a successful one as he scored a hard fought unanimous decision over Maurice Chalmers (14-13-1) in a eight-round bout.  Rainone used effective punching to open up a cut over Chalmers left eye in round two.  Chalmers tried to make the fight, but Rainone used effective counters and won by scores of 79-73 on all cards.
Daryl Bunting (1-0-1) started the card off with a four-round unanimous decision over Darryl Watkins (0-3) in a super middleweight bout.
Bunting win by scores of 40-36 twice and 40-35.
Omar Brito (3-2, 2 KO’s) scored a explosive one-punch knockout over Bienvenido Diaz (2-2) in a scheduled four-round super featherweight bout.
Brito landed a perfect right hand that sent Diaz to the canvas.  Diaz got to his feet but was wobbling around the ring and the bout was stopped at 2:20 of round one.
Quian Davis (2-0-1) won a four round unanimous decision over Corey Morley (0-2-1) in a heavyweight bout.
Scores were 40-36 on all cards.
Alvin Vermall Jr. (8-0-1)  remained perfect by winning an entertaining four round unanimous decision over D’Quan Morgan (3-3-1) in a cruiserweight bout.
There was good back and forth action throughout the bout.  Vermall, who is from Catskills, New York has an exciting style reminiscent to another former Catskills fighter in Mike Tyson.  Morgan was bleeding from his nose in round three.  The two fought a spirited affair with Vermall winning by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37.

Hakim Bryant (6-0) remained perfect with a six-round unanimous decision over Rick Graham in a middleweight bout.
Bryant (6-0) dominated the action, and dropped Graham in round six from a flurry on the ropes and won by scores of 60-51, 60-52 and 60-53.
The show is available for viewing for $14.99 on GFL.TV by CLICKING HERE
Facebook.com/risingstarboxing
Instagram: @risingpromo
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Dillon Cook Counting Down Days for ShoBox Debut!

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D Cook.jpg

Seneca, MO (March 18, 2016) – On March 25, junior middleweight prospect Dillon “White Lightning” Cook will find himself in a familiar place but with a new challenge when he battles Justin DeLoach in an eight round bout on ShoBox: The New Generation at the Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, OK.

 

Tickets for the event promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Holden Productions are $45, $55 and $75 and can be purchased by logging onto Buffalorun.com or Stubwire.com.

 

Unbeaten in 16 professional bouts with six wins by knockout, Cook’s fought five of his last seven matches at the Buffalo Run, winning handily each time. A member of Holden Productions’ “Four State Franchise”, the popular Cook is from nearby Seneca, MO and fought in front of sellout crowds on multiple occasions. While these are definite advantages for Cook, DeLoach comes into the ring with an impressive background.

 

Against DeLoach, 13-1 (7 KO’s), Cook is taking a significant step up in competition and will do so before a national audience. Hailing from Augusta, GA and based in Houston, TX, DeLoach trained alongside top fighters including IBF junior middleweight champion Jermall Charlo, undefeated Jermell Charlo, Bryan Vera and Edwin Rodriguez amongst others. Recently, Team DeLoach announced that his new chief second is former two division champion Paul Williams and highly respected George Peterson will work as an assistant.

 

To prepare for DeLoach, Cook’s been training out of the Heartland Boxing Gym and travels to various gyms for sparring as he anxiously waits for the opening bell on March 25.

 

“I’m excited for the fight but trying not to let the pressure of fighting on TV get to me,” said Cook, a former National Junior Golden Gloves titlist and six time Kansas City Golden Gloves winner. “(To specifically prepare for DeLoach) we’re working on (technique to counter) his style. DeLoach is a good fighter I’ve seen him fight a few times he’s fast and a busy fighter but I’m pretty fast myself. I expect to match his speed, if not beat it.”

 

Cook also acknowledges his advantages and never second guessed taking the step up in competition.

 

“I’m a smart fighter and can adapt well (plus the) hometown crowd is definitely a benefit. I knew we’d step (up the competition in the near future) and this is a great time for it. I’ve had 16 professional fights and am ready to show the world that I’m capable of going to the next level.”

 

Cook’s promoter, Tony Holden, is confident in his fighter and believes the locals will come out droves to support him.

 

“I’m proud to see him get a shot on a national stage. He’s a key part of the “Four State Franchise” and is a big crowd draw. He’s worked very hard and I expect him to put forth a tremendous performance. I’d like to personally thank Showtime as well for this incredible opportunity.”

 

The Cook-DeLoach bout opens up a quadrupleheader live on Showtime (10:30 PM ET). The card also features highly regarded junior welterweight Regis Prograis (16-0) against Aaron Herrera (29-4-1), two showdowns where somebody’s 0 must go between unbeaten welterweights Ivan Golub (10-0) and Marlon Aguas (9-0) and junior welterweights Ivan Baranchyk (9-0) vs Nicholas Givhan (16-0-1).

 

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Isiah Seldon back and looking for big opportunities

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Seldon battles Michael Mitchell this Saturday at The Claridge Hotel for the Garden State Super Middleweight title

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna battles Kendal Mena in main event
1ST BOUT —7 PM SHARP
For Immediate Release
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (March 18, 2016)–TOMORROW NIGHT at The Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City,super middleweight Isiah Seldon returns to the ring after  a 33-month layoff when he challenges Michael Mitchell  as part of an 11-bout card that is promoted by Rising Promotions and Vincent M. Ponte’s Gulfstream Promotions.
In the main event, Thomas LaManna takes on Kendal Mena in a eight round welterweight bout.
Seldon is eager to be back in the ring after much soul searching over the past two-plus years.
“I have been working a job and staying in the gym.  I have been keeping sharp but I just needed to get my life in order, ” said Seldon.  “We have been looking for the right fight.  I was offered some good financial opportunities in Russia, but I want to do this the right way.  I am not in this for the money.”
Seldon feels at age 27, the time is now to concentrate on in his ring career.
“I am not getting any younger, and when I got the call from Rising Promotions and they offered me the right fight, I jumped at it.”
When asked about the veteran Mitchell, Seldon really doesn’t know alot.
“I don’t know much.  I saw a couple video snippets of him and I see a tough guys who comes forward.  It should be a good fight.  I trained very hard for this and I am ready.”
When asked what he sees in the next few years, Seldon, believes that with Rising Promotions looking to do stage multiple fight cards on the boardwalk property, he sees an active 2016.
“I am looking at two or three more fights this year.  Rising Promotions said I could be on their cards going forward.  I am just trying to stay busy.  I am 27 years-old and it is time to go.  The Beast Mode is turned on and I am excited to show a new Isiah Seldon.  Before I was just a brawler but in the time off, I have developed my boxing skills and I am a much better fighter.”
In an eight-round welterweight bout, Tommy Rainone (24-7-1, 5 KO’s) of Long Island, NY battles Maurice Chalmers (14-12-1, 8 KO’s) of Lynchburg, VA.
In six-round bouts:
 
Lamont Capers (5-7-2) of Hawley, PA will fight Willis Lockett (14-16-5, 5 KO’s) of Takoma Park, MD in a cruiserweight bout.

Former cruiserweight world champion Imamu Mayfield (25-9-2, 18 KO’s) of Perth Amboy, NJ returns to the ring after an eight year absence when  he takes on Dan Pasciolla (6-1-1) of Brick, NJ in a heavyweight bout for the Garden State Heavyweight title.
In four round bouts:
Quian Davis (1-0-1, 1 KO) of Mays Landing, NJ battles Corey Morley (0-1-1) of Philadelphia in a Heavyweight bout.
 
Omar Brito (2-2, 1 KO) of Pleasantville, NJ will fight Bienvenido Diaz (2-1, 2 KO’s) of Prospect Park, NJ in a super featherweight fight.
Alvin Vermall (7-0-1, 7 KO’s) of La Place, LA will take on D’Quan Morgan (3-2-1, 3 KO’s) of Hamlet, NC in a cruiserweight tilt.
Undefeated middleweight Hakim Bryant (5-0, 4 KO’s) of Asbury Park, NJ will fightRick Graham (3-11-2, 1 KO) of Detroit, MI.
 
Darryl Bunting (0-0-1) of Asbury Park, NJ will tussle with Darryl Watkins (0-2) of Temple Hills, MD. in a super middleweight fight.
Ubdefeated lightweight Steven Ortiz (2-0) of Philadelphia, PA will box Jose Miguel Castro (5-7, 3 KO’s) of Carolina, Puerto Rico.
Tickets for the March 19th fight card are $50 GA,  $75 Stage (very few remaining)& $125 VIP (SOLD OUT) (Booths of 5 available for $500—SOLD OUT) and are available at RisingBoxingPromotions.com or 609-487-4444.
The Claridge Hotel is located at  123 S. Indiana Ave. Atlantic City NJ

Facebook.com/risingstarboxing
Instagram: @risingpromo
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

Ashley Theophane & J’Leon Love Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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PBC on Spike Begins At 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT
 
Click HERE For Photos From Dave Nadkarni/PBC &
Esaiah Gomez/Mayweather Promotions
 
LAS VEGAS (March 18, 2016) – 140-pound contender Ashley “The Treasure” Theophane and super middleweight contender J’Leon Love hosted a Las Vegas media workout Thursday as they prepared for their respective showdowns on Friday, April 1 from the DC Armory in Washington, D.C.
Theophane takes on super lightweight world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Spike beginning at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Love will compete in a non-televised undercard attraction.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with HeadBangers Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visitwww.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations or call (800) 745-3000.
Theophane and Love held court at the Mayweather Boxing Club as they went discussed their upcoming showdowns with media.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
ASHLEY THEOPHANE
“The focus is to go in there and outwork him on fight night. At the end of the day I have to set the pace. I can’t go out there and outbox him because he’s got tremendous skill and speed. So I have to be able to go out there and outwork him and make it a war.
“When he sees that I’m still there in round 5, he’s going to start to get worried. My whole thing on fight night is to work and bring a war.
“As a boxer, you want to fight the best, and you want these big nights. For me, it’s been a hard road to get to this point, and I’m actually looking forward to fight night because I know it’s going to be a very hard fight, and I know in order for me to win I have to be at my best, and that’s what I have prepared for.
“I’ve been sparring a lot of strong young men in camp; a lot of guys who many believe will be future stars of boxing, and I’ve been doing very well, so I’m more than ready. It’s just a matter of counting down the days now.
“My career shows that if you believe in yourself and never give up, you will get your opportunity. At that point, it’s just up to you to take it.
“I feel I will be able to match him come fight night. I know I’m the big underdog, I know I’m not being given the chance to win, but I really believe we are going to prove the doubters wrong and be world champ come April 1.
“It just became real to be in the same place with him [Broner] at the press conference. It was more motivation to come back in the gym. Once we got back, the guys here at the gym saw me sparring the next day and said they can tell he had motivated me. He can talk, but on fight night, we have to fight. He said he’s going to stop me in 4 rounds, so I’ll be looking forward to seeing that because I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to be there for the whole 12 rounds.
“Mayweather Promotions believed in me from the very start and they flew with me in the deep end. I have improved from being around Floyd, and watching him. You have to improve with being around him-the best fighter of all time-you have to improve.”
J’LEON LOVE
“Training has been great; I’m healthy, I’m focused, my weight is not bad, I can’t complain. I actually took a week off in September of last year, and have been right back in the gym. We’ve been training ever since for 5 or 6 months now, so we were already ahead.
“This guy [Gbenga], despite his record, has been in the ring more times than me, so he is a lot more experienced. He can survive, or do little things that can upset my game plan, but at the same time, I’ve been there done that, and just ready to showcase my talent.
“Every fight is important, whether it’s the first couple of fights, or now. To me, this is a stay busy fight-stay busy, showcase my talent, look impressive, and show that we’re ready for a world title. Not just fight for a world title, but win a world title. Be a world champion. Continue to reach different levels in the game.
“I’m hungry, I feel like this is already written for me. I didn’t make it this far for nothing, or to be a contender. For a world championship fight, I’m going to definitely seize the moment so I’m going to go out there and do what I do best, and that is to fight.
“I’m a pretty slick fighter, very smart fighter, so I’ve dissected him already and he makes a lot of mistakes. I think he’ll fall into the trap, and I feel like I will get him out of there. I’m very confident in my training and my ability.”
# # #
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @AshleyTheophane, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports,@MayweatherPromo, and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and
 www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

IRELAND’S PATRICK HYLAND CELEBRATES ST. PATRICK’S DAY WITH FAMILY AS HE PREPARES FOR SATURDAY, APRIL 16SHOWDOWN WITH FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION GARY RUSSELL JR.

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Featherweight Title Showdown Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING At 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT from Foxwoods Resort Casino In Mashantucket, CT.

 

MASHANTUCKET, CT (March 17, 2016) – Patrick “The Punisher” Hyland spent St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland with his family, trading green beer for his son’s green bib, as he prepares for his featherweight world championship showdown against Gary Russell Jr. on Saturday, April 16live on SHOWTIME® from Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT.

 

“I spent St. Patrick’s Day with family and friends,” said Hyland. “We just got back from dinner after bringing my son up to the parade in Rathcoole.

 

“It was a lovely, sunny day for the beer garden, but none for me. I’ll have to celebrate April 17. I’m looking to bring that title back to Ireland.”

 

The Irish born and raised Hyland has won four fights in a row as he prepares for his world title opportunity stateside with the expectations of his nation on his shoulders.

 

“This win would be massive for the Irish boxing community,” said Hyland. “I want to become a world champion like Carl Frampton and Andy Lee and this is a prime chance. I’m going to proudly represent the Irish people and leave everything in the ring.”

 

Hyland has extra motivation, along with fighting for his wife, Lorna, and newborn son, Callum, he will be honoring the memory of his late father and longtime trainer who passed away recently.

 

“This fight means the world to me and it’s why I got into boxing,” Hyland said. “I’m dedicating this to my late father and after I win I’ll look up and say ‘Dad, we did it!’ ”

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING begins at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT with undefeated IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Jose Pedrazadefending against mandatory challenger Stephen Smith.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $150, $90 and $45 not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.comand www.foxwoods.com or by visiting the Foxwoods’ Box Office. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. The Pedraza vs. Smith bout is promoted in association with Gary Shaw Productions, Universal Promotions and Matchroom Boxing.

 

For more information, visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @MrGaryRussellJr, @PajPunisher, @Sniper_Pedraza, @SwiftySmith, @LouDiBella, @FoxwoodsCT and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.

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Anthony Crolla defends the WBA Lightweight title on Saturday, May 7 against Ismael Barroso LIVE on AWE–A Wealth of Entertainment

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SAN DIEGO, CALIF.- March 17, 2016 – On Saturday afternoon, May 7, Anthony Crolla will make the first defense of the WBA Lightweight championship when he takes on hard punching and undefeated challenger Ismael Barroso in a bout that will headline a full afternoon of boxing on AWE–A Wealth of Entertainment.

“We are very excited about this great fight coming to AWE,” said AWE President Charles Herring.
“Crolla won his title on AWE in November with a stunning knockout over Darleys Perez and now we are happy to bring the fans in the United States his first defense.  Barroso has a great style and it should make for an action packed fight.”
The bout will originate from the Manchester Arena.

Crolla of Manchester, England has a record of 30-4-3 with 12 knockouts.

He turned professional on October 14, 2006 with a win over Abdul Rashid (1-0).

The 29 year-old has amassed wins over 4-time world title challenger Michael Brodie (36-3-1), Andy Morris (19-3), John Watson (13-1), Willie Limond (34-3), Syephen Jennings (5-1-1), Kieran Farrell (14-0), former Junior Welterweight world champion Gavis Rees (37-2-1), Stephen Foster (31-4-1) & Former world title challenger John Murray (33-2).

On November 21, he won the WBA Lightweight title with a one-punch body shot knockout over reigning champion Darleys Perez (32-1-1) in the same Arena will he will make his first defense in Manchester.

Barroso of El Tigre, Venezuela has a undefeated mark of 19-0-2 with 18 big knockouts.

The 33 year-old is an 11-year veteran who has victories over Alfonso Perez (4-1), Addir Sanchez (7-1), Abraham Gomez (16-3-1), Oscar Arena (22-3), Winston Campos (17-2-4), Issouf Kinda (17-2) and in his last bout, he captured the WBA Interim world championship with a fifth-round stoppage over Kevin Mitchell (39-3) onDecember 12 in London.

A Full undercard and start time will be announced shortly
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Chris Algieri Supporting Alma Mater Stony Brook University Ahead Of First NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Game in School History

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“It’s an inspiration to see their hard work and determination. They can be the latest ‘Cinderella’ 
story to come out of the tournament.” – Algieri
 

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/Star Boxing)
 
Algieri takes on rising star Errol Spence Jr. in primetime as
Premier Boxing Champions on NBC returns to
Barclays Center in Brooklyn
Saturday, April 16 (8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT)
BROOKLYN (March 17, 2016) – Former world champion Chris Algieri is excited to cheer on his alma mater, the Stony Brook University Seawolves, as they hit the court for the first men’s basketball NCAA Tournament game in the school’s history.
“The older I get, the less I believe in luck, but I want to wish good luck to my alma mater, the Stony Brook Seawolves, in the opening game of the NCAA tournament later tonight,” said Algieri.
The Long Island-native graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Health Care Sciences and is currently on the advisory board of the Seawolves United Athletic Department. In 2015, he established the “Chris Algieri Champion Lifestyle Scholarship Fund” in 2015.
“The program has come such a long way over the past few years,” Algieri continued. “It is an inspiration to see what hard work and determination can do. This is their first ever trip to March Madness and I think they can be the latest ‘Cinderella’ story to come out of the tournament.”
The 13th-seeded Seawolves will take on the fourth-seed Kentucky Wildcats in Des Moines, Iowa tonight in the first round of the East Regional, with tip-off scheduled for 9:40 p.m. ET.
“I know what it’s like to be the underdog,” said Algieri. “I’ve been the underdog numerous times in my life and career and it’s all about digging deep and having the heart of a champion. I know those guys on the Stony Brook team have that championship mettle.”
Algieri takes on Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBCtripleheaderon Saturday, April 16 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn with televised coverage beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Star Boxing, start at $25, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com,www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ErrolSpenceJr, @ChrisAlgieri, @USSCunningham, @Marcus_Browne, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @NBCSports, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/NBCSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing

Building a Better Heavyweight: The Medical Dream Team Behind Undefeated Heavyweight Justin ‘Jawbreaker’ Jones

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A prominent group of experts has been assembled to form the team behind undefeated boxer Justin “Jawbreaker” Jones and together, they are building a better heavyweight.
 
Louisiana-born and Houston-based heavyweight Justin Jones is still a relative unknown on the world boxing scene, but based on the support he receives in training, that may be about to change.
 
Heading up the team is Jones’ advisor, a man once known as the youngest promoter in Louisiana State history, Kerry Daigle.
 
Daigle, a long-time respected staple of the Southern boxing scene, as well as a top executive for Juice Plus personal health and safety products, brought in some medical heavy hitters to assist coaches Maurice “Termite” Watkins and Eleazar Renteria with the hidden side of training a fighter: nutrition.
 
Dr. Roy Vartabedian is a best-selling international author who has specialized in the field of health promotion and disease prevention for over 30 years. He also holds a Master of Public Health degree in Health Education and Nutrition.
 
Vartabedian’s book, Nutripoints, was a New York Times Best-Seller, and has been used in a total of 13 countries in 10 languages worldwide.
 
“The challenge is when these guys are working out so much, once or twice a day, they’re actually having a problem with losing muscle because it’s hard for them to eat enough calories to maintain their weight,” said Vartabedian, “or the way they do it is unhealthy which will decrease their stamina and endurance.”
 
The average person, says Vartabedian only needs 2000 to 2500 calories per day. Heavyweight fighters in training need somewhere in the neighborhood of 4000 to 4500.
 
“Justin is at 232 lbs right now. He’s at his best at 238. So, he wants to be on an alkaline diet, which supposedly creates alkalinity in the body which is healthier than acidity for peak performance. That’s means a plant-based and unprocessed food diet. The problem with that kind of diet is it’s very high in bulk and low on calories. What I’ve done is fine tune it for him. I’ve given him a list of high-calorie, good fat foods and added them to his diet so he’s getting more calories and good fats and more fiber. I’m recommending to increase calories in a healthy way with lots of almonds, cashews, sunflowers seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, macadamia nuts, all unsalted. This will add about 500 calories to a person’s diet in about three handfuls a day.”
 
Dr. Charles H. Campbell is a Board Certified Ophthalmologist, specializes in retinal disease. A world-renowned surgeon and the founder and Medical Director of South Texas Retina Consultants, Campbell has given his life to the treatment of macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments and tears, macular holes and puckers, floaters, retinal vein occlusions, complications of cataract surgery, vitritis/uveitis.
 
Campbell has also lent his talents and know-how to the management of fighters, including former heavyweight contender Skip Scott.
 
“We’re making sure he stays in shape by maintaining a clean lifestyle,” said Campbell. “We make sure he’s eating right. I feel like athletes think they can get all the protein they want, but most of us get 110 grams a day, which is way too much. So, we can regulate his water and protein intake. He probably needs 10-12 servings of fruit, so we give him Juice Plus which is proven to put about 6 ½ servings into your body.”
 
Campbell says a common mistake fighters make is in their fluid intake.
 
“Most of these athletes don’t drink enough water. For his size he probably needs a gallon and a half a day. But mostly, I hope to help him make sure he doesn’t get off track and eat bad foods.”
 
Daigle has big plans for Jones, who recently signed with Warriors Boxing and Leon Margules, one of the top promotional firms in the world. It was Warriors Vice-President Dominic Pesoli who first gave Jones the added moniker of “Triple J.”
 
“There is no heavyweight that has better foot movement and throws more combinations than Triple J,” said Daigle. “Once given the opportunity Justin will surprise the world. There are a lot of taller heavyweights that are rated in the top 10 in every sanctioning body. These guys are made-to-order for him. We are excited about his future in the NEW heavyweight division.”
 
The fighter himself says the help of his medical dream team has been immeasurable already.
 
“The difference has been incredible,” said Jones. “I don’t want this secret to get out to other fighters! They both got me on Juice Plus for all its healthy vegetables and fruits and they’ve really changed my diet and given me a world of information on how to be healthy. I’ve changed how I eat with their help and it’s really benefitting me. I feel better more energized. When I started training I was 264. My last fight I was 230. It’s just getting me fit. Like a machine that can just go and go and go. That’s what they’re doing for me. I’m eating the right things to stay big but be in perfect shape at this size. I’m eating to gain weight and turning it to athletic muscle. They’re awesome. They’ve made a believer out of me.”
 
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For more information on Juice Plus, visit www.kerrydaigle.com. For more information on Kerry Daigle and Keeppunching Entertainment, visit his Facebook Page.  Look for a newwww.keeppunching.com site coming soon!

boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Long-Awaited Victor Ortiz & Andre Berto Rematch Set for Primetime Saturday, April 30 As Premier Boxing Champions On FOX & FOX Deportes Comes To StubHub Center In Carson, Calif.

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Plus! Highly Anticipated Light Heavyweight Showdown Between 
Edwin Rodriguez & Thomas Williams Jr.
& Former Multiple Division Champion Fernando Montiel Takes On Unbeaten Jorge Lara In Featherweight Action
 
Televised Coverage Begins At 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
 
Tickets On Sale Now!
 
CARSON, CALIF. (March 17, 2016) – Former welterweight world champions “Vicious” Victor Ortiz (31-5-2, 24 KOs) and Andre “The Beast” Berto (30-4, 23 KOs) will meet again in a 12-round welterweight rematch in primetime on Saturday, April 30 as Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX and FOX Deportes comes to StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features two exciting undercard attractions. Light heavyweight sluggers Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (28-1, 19 KOs)and Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. (19-1, 13 KOs)meet in a 10-round brawl plus former three-division world champion Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel (54-5-2, 39 KOs) faces unbeaten Mexican brawler Jorge Lara (27-0-2, 19 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight battle.
Ortiz and Berto first faced off in their 2011 welterweight world title barnburner that garnered significant Fight of the Year buzz. The bout saw both men hit the canvas twice, including a thrilling round six in which each fighter was knocked down.  In the end, Ortiz walked away with a unanimous decision.  A victory in the rematch will propel the winner to the forefront of the world title picture in this stacked with talent division.
“I know I’m in for another war,” said Ortiz. “I’ve always been open to a rematch because Berto has a big mouth and something to prove. After our fight, he went on a losing streak, because I gave his opponents a blueprint on how to beat him. My losses have been unfortunate, but I wouldn’t want to come up against me at this stage in the game. My name is Victor and that’s no coincidence.”
“This is the fight the people have been waiting for and it’s time to give it to them,” said Berto. “I am in a good place mentally, physically and spiritually. I’ve never wanted my story to be perfect, that’s boring. Life is filled with ups and downs and I’ve embraced them all in my career.  Everything I’ve been through has turned me into a savage. It’s time to close this chapter once and for all. I want his head!”
The undercard bouts are sure to feature exciting two-way action as the experienced veterans Rodriguez and Montiel look to hold-off rising contenders in Williams Jr. and Lara.
“This is a very big fight for the light heavyweight division,” said Rodriguez. “Thomas brings it, but so do I. You can expect fireworks from the opening bell as we are both looking to put on a sensational performance. That being said, the light heavyweight championship is right around the corner, and there is nothing that is going to stop me from getting there.”
“I’m thrilled to be fighting on this card,” Williams said. “When they called me about this fight, I said, ‘I love it, let’s make it happen.’ I think that it’s going to be a really exciting and fan-friendly matchup. Edwin is a strong fighter who I know is going to be prepared to bring it on fight night, and I’ll make sure I’m ready to do the same.”
“It’s a pleasure to be on this fight card and I promise an exciting night for the fans,” said Montiel. “I came up short in my last fight, but I am determined to become a world champion in a new weight class. I always come to fight and I will be throwing punches non-stop until I’m victorious on April 30.”
“I’m blessed to be back in the ring as part of this great night of fights,” said Lara. “My dream is to be a world champion, and to do that I have to beat fighters like Montiel. I respect my opponent, but right now he is on my way and nothing is going to stop me.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $209, $105, $53, and $27, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.
PBC on FOX in primetime debuted on January 23 and featured a thrilling three-fight card that was topped by undefeated star Danny Garcia conquering former world champion Robert Guerrero to claim a welterweight world title in a back-and-forth brawl. Another exciting contest in the welterweight division is sure to thrill those watching at home and the Southern California boxing fans in attendance.
“We are proud to be bringing this long awaited rematch to the StubHub Center and the Los Angeles boxing fans,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto battled back in 2011, and their meeting on April 30 will take care of unfinished business.”
“After the overwhelming success of the return to boxing on FOX in January, after an almost 20 year absence, FOX Sports and FOX Deportes are thrilled to present the second Premier Boxing Champions fight on April 30,” said David Nathanson, FOX Sports Head of Business Operations.
“StubHub Center is excited to host this welterweight bout on Saturday, April 30,” said Katie Pandolfo, General Manager of StubHub Center. “We look forward to an exciting rematch and an electric atmosphere at the premier outdoor boxing venue in the United States.”
An exciting fighter who never shies away from action, Ortiz returned to the ring in December 2015 one year after injuring his hand during a third round stoppage of Manuel Perez. The 29-year-old stopped Gilberto Sanchez Leon in his last bout for his second victory in a row. Ortiz was a 147-pound world champion when he defeated Berto in 2011 to set up a showdown with Floyd Mayweather. The Kansas-native has spent time in recent years to film roles in movies such as “Southpaw” and “The Expendables 3” but is now fully focused on a return to the pinnacle of the welterweight division.
Berto is a former amateur standout and Olympian for his native Haiti. He challenged now-retired pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather in September. The offensive-minded Berto always makes for sensational scraps as his 2012 slugfest with Robert Guerrero was another Fight of the Year candidate. The 32-year-old thrilled in his PBC debut last March when he stopped Josesito Lopez in the sixth round of their welterweight showdown.
An accomplished amateur who won a 2006 National Golden Gloves gold medal and a 2005 U.S. National Championship gold medal, the 30-year-old Rodriguez enters this fight a winner of his last four fights. Born in the Dominican Republic but fighting out of Worcester, Massachusetts, Rodriguez’s only loss came to the undefeated Andre Ward in 2013. He owns impressive victories over previously unbeaten fighters Will Rosinsky, Jason Escalera, Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna, Craig Baker and Michael Seals. Against Seals, in his most recent bout on November 13, Edwin rose from the canvas to score a devastating third-round TKO in what was a ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate.
Williams Jr., a 28-year-old from Fort Washington, Maryland, was introduced to boxing by his father, a former pro fighter. A dynamite puncher, Williams Jr. has registered seven of his 13 knockouts in the first round. However, the southpaw has also proven his endurance with unanimous decision victories over warriors like Michael Gbenga, Yusaf Mack and Otis Griffin. Most recently he earned two victories, including a second-round TKO over world-ranked contender Umberto Savigne last November.
The veteran Montiel won his first world title in 2000 over Isidro Garcia and went on to have title winning performances over Pedro Alzacar, Ivan Hernandez, Z Gorres, Ciso Morales and Hozumi Hasegawa.  Born in Sinaloa, Mexico, Montiel rode an eight-fight win streak heading into his October world title shot against Lee Selby.  Montiel’s aggressive style frustrated Selby but it was not enough for him to grab a title in his fourth weight class.
Undefeated out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Lara made his U.S. debut on March 7, 2015 with a first round stoppage of Mario Macias in Las Vegas. The 25-year-old has ended seven of his last nine opponents early including experienced contenders Jovanny Soto, Jairo Hernandez and Oscar Ibarra. He looks to rebound from a technical draw in his last outing after the fight was stopped in six rounds due to numerous cuts Lara had received from accidental headbutts.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage andfoxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto,@LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.