Lossis Archives: boxing

boxing, FITETV, women's boxing

HISTORIC BRITISH ALL FEMALE PRO BOXING EVENT SET FOR 21ST NOV – LIVE ON FITE TV

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Five division World Champion and Promoter Lee Mcallister and the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) jointly announced an historic all female professional boxing event, that will take place in the United Kingdom on Saturday 21st November 2020 as part of theLET BATTLE COMMENCE Series, in association withPAPA JOHN’S PIZZA thiabNEON ENERGY DRINK and broadcast exclusively live onFITE TV.

To date the LET BATTLE COMMENCE series, which are broadcast live on FITE TV and delayed broadcast in the UK on Sports Channel Network (Freeview/Youview Channel 265), has featured female contests on all events.

The first took place on the 18th July 2020 and hosted the professional boxing debut of ten time Kick Boxing World Champion Caitlin Foran against PBC International Silver Champion Jaime Bates.

LET BATTLE COMMENCE II, which was broadcast live on Friday 4th September, featured three female contests, the first featured PBC International Silver Super Flyweight Champion Nicola Hopewell versus Tasha Boyes, also featured on the card were Elite Amateur Stars Hollie Towl and Ellie Coulson who made their respective professional boxing debuts against Jaime Bates and Beccy Ferguson.

The upcoming LET BATTLE COMMENCE III, which takes place on the 3rd October features two female contests; Sophie Varley versus Tasha Boyes and Elite Amateur Estelle Scott makes her professional Boxing debut against Carly Mackenzie.

The interim card for the 21st NovemberLET BATTLE COMMENCE – THE LIONESSES event sees WIBA Minimum-weight World ChampionDenise Castle and MBC International ChampionMarianne Marston co-headlining, against yet to be named opponents.

The stacked card hosts the rematch betweenNicola Hopewell thiabTasha Boyes, following Boyes’ unfortunate retirement during their previous encounter due to an arm injury.

Former ten time Kick Boxing World ChampionCaitlin Foran will make her second appearance in the series and will face Shrewsbury’sBeccy Ferguson.

Former English National Amateur ChampionEllie Coulson will also be making her second appearance in the series, this time she facesEster Konecna from the Czech Republic.

Ellie’s esteemed team mate at the Xbox Academy in Worksop, Hollie Towl, faces Italy’sAngela Cannizzaro.

World Boxing Council (WBC) Muay Thai World ChampionNatacha De Almeida from Switzerland, will be making her professional boxing debut against York’sCarly Mackenzie.

Former Elite Amateur, South Shields’Estelle Scott, is back in action against debutingKirsty Biswas from Middlesbrough.

Manchester’sSophie Varley, who now competes at Super Flyweight, will face debutingIvette Garcia.

Shrewsbury’s PBC International Silver Bantamweight ChampionJaime Bates will go toe-to-toe with the highly experienced KenyanJane Kavulani.

Further contests are planned, including a second World title fight between American Heavyweights Carlette Ewell and Gwendolyn O’Neil, subject to UK Government travel restrictions permitting.

Currently this event is being planned as a ‘Behind Closed Doors’ special event at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen, however it is expected that Spectators will be permitted to attend events by November, subject to government restrictions, and if they are then it is expected that the event will take place in London, subject to suitable size venue availability.

LET BATTLE COMMENCE – THE LIONESSES, in association withPAPA JOHN’S PIZZA thiabNEON ENERGY DRINK, will take place on the 21st November 2020 and will be broadcast exclusively live onFITE TV (PPV @ $12.99)

www.letbattlecommence.com

Bellator, mixed martial arts

BELLATOR TO HOLD FIRST MAJOR MMA EVENT IN FRANCE ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 AT ACCOR ARENA IN PARIS

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WITH FANS IN ATTENDANCE, FRANCE’S CHEICK KONGO FACES TIM JOHNSON AT HEAVYWEIGHT, WHILE MICHAEL ‘VENOM’ PAGE TAKES ON THE DEBUTING ROSS HOUSTON

Tickets on sale Tuesday, Sept. 15!

LOS ANGELES – France has approved the practice of mixed martial arts and has placed the sport under the supervision of the French Boxing Federation (FFB). With these recent government approvals, Bellator is pleased to announce that it will become the first promotion to hold a major MMA event in France with a monumental show on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at Accor Arena in Paris. Bellator Paris will feature 13 MMA bouts and three boxing matchups.

Among the athletes competing atBellator Paris, 10 French fighters will appear on the card, including the renownedCheick Kongo (30-10-2, 1 NC), who will face off againstTim Johnson (14-6) in a heavyweight clash. Additionally, an exciting welterweight bout betweenMichael “Venom” Page (17-1), better known to fans as “MVP,” and the debuting undefeatedRoss Houston (8-0,1 NC) is also booked for the event.

A limited number of fans will be allowed in attendance for this historic event. Tickets will be available beginning at 10 a.m. CEST on Tuesday, September 15 tomaccorarena.com thiabbellator.fr.

Following the governmental decree, the French Boxing Federation is responsible for the implementation of MMA in France. “If I made the choice to initiate a delegation procedure for MMA, it was for its recognition; it is to liberate, supervise and develop its practice,” indicates the Minister of Sports, Roxana Maracineanu. This is a turning point in the history of French sport, as MMA is a discipline that is enjoying growing success, proven by these events capable of bringing together thousands of people and attracting millions of spectators.

 

“This is a monumental moment in the history of the sport, as well as our organization, and I am honored that Bellator will promote the very first MMA event in France by a major promotion,” said Bellator President Scott Coker. “Many people have worked tirelessly to bring this to fruition, and it would not have been possible without the support of the Minister of Sports, Roxana Maracineanu, as well as the French Kickboxing Federation sanctioning body. I would also like to thank Accor Arena, who have been an incredible venue partner, and I cannot wait for the French fans to be in attendance and join us live for what will be an unforgettable night of action in Paris on Oct 10.”

Holding an impressive MMA record of 30-10-2, 1 NC, France’s Cheick Kongo returns to action following a title fight against heavyweight champion Ryan Bader last September. The former kickboxer remains unbeaten since 2015 and will enter the Bellator cage on home soil for a rematch against a familiar opponent in heavyweight contender, Tim Johnson. With the most fights (15) and wins (12) in Bellator heavyweight history, as well as victories over Vitaly Minakov, Mirko Cro Cop, Antoni Hardonk and Matt Mitrione, the Parisian is planning for a successful homecoming on Oct. 10.

On the heels of a dominant TKO victory over veteran Matt Mitrione atBellator 243 in August, Tim Johnson is set to compete for the third time in 2020 seeking revenge in a rematch from 2018 against Cheick Kongo. Now training out of Las Vegas, Johnson has quickly earned his place near the top of the Bellator heavyweight division with his recent wins, including a viral knockout over top prospect Tyrell Fortune in February. Boasting a career record of 14-6, nrog 11 coming by way of finish, the Minnesota-born military veteran looks to carry his momentum into a fight that has future world title implications.

Currently riding a three-fight win streak, Michael “Venom” Page, better known to fans as “MVP,” returns with the intention of spoiling the debut of European welterweight prospect, Ross Houston. Holding a career record of 17-1, nrog 14 wins coming by way of stoppage, the pride of London Shootfighters looks to remind people why he is one of the most exciting strikers in all of MMA. In addition to his MMA accolades, Page is a 10-time kickboxing world champion and also undefeated as a professional boxer.

After signing with Bellator in February, Scotland’s Ross Houston will make his promotional debut against one of Bellator’s biggest stars in Michael Page. “The Hitman” plans on keeping his 8-0, 1 NC undefeated record intact and moving one step closer to Bellator gold in the toughest test of his career to date. With three submission victories to his name, Houston’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills make him a viable threat if the fight goes to the ground against one of Bellator’s most feared strikers.

Follow Bellator France on Instagram@BellatorFrance and on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/BellatorFrance/.

Please visitwww.Bellator.fr thiabBellator.com for additional information.

UpdatedBellator ParisCard:

Heavyweight Feature Fight: Cheick Kongo(30-10-2, 1 NC) vs.Tim Johnson(14-6)

Welterweight Feature Fight: Michael Page(17-1) vs.Ross Houston(8-0, 1 NC)

*Card subject to change.

****

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DANNY ROMAN TRAINING CAMP QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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Former Unified Champion Danny Roman Previews Showdown Against Juan Carlos Payano and More Ahead of SHOWTIME PPV® Doubleheader on Saturday, September 26, Presented by Premier Boxing Champions


Nyem qhov OS for Photos from Kyte Monroe/Thompson Boxing

NEW YORK, – September 9, 2020 – Former unified super bantamweight champion Danny Roman anticipates an action packed showdown as he previewed his upcoming WBC super bantamweight title eliminator bout against former world champion Juan Carlos Payano taking place Saturday, September 26 in part two of a first-of-its-kind SHOWTIME PPV doubleheader presented by Premier Boxing Champions.


“Payano is one of the toughest and roughest fighters in the division,” said Roman. “His only losses are to elite fighters. This fight will be all action because Payano likes to mix it up, as do I. The fans will get to see two warriors going at it as I’m fully prepared for a grueling fight. This will be an explosive twelve-round battle, and that’s if it goes the distance, which I highly doubt.”


Roman and his longtime trainer Eddie Gonzalez have prepared for the Payano fight at the Fundamentals Gym in Los Angeles, studying their opponent and aiming to put on an impressive performance on September 26.


“It’s been a very productive training camp thus far,” said Roman. “We’ve been going strong, but smart, since early August. Coach Eddie has been studying Payano and we see some flaws in his game that we feel we can capitalize on. I’m in great shape and its full steam ahead for Payano showdown.”


The Los Angeles-native Roman will return to the ring for the first time since dropping a narrow split-decision, and his super bantamweight titles, to Murodjon Akhmadaliev in January. Roman knows that with a win in this title eliminator, he will be in a prime position to regain his status in the division.


“A victory will put me right back on the doorstep for a world title,” said Roman. “I feel that I’m still one of the best fighters at super bantamweight, but I must get past Payano. There are so many big fights at super bantamweight, because this division is one of the deepest in boxing. My mind is set on becoming a world champion again, and a victory against Payano will bring me closer to that goal.”

The September 26 doubleheader is stacked with champions and top talent in the 122-pound division, presenting an abundance of opportunities for Roman should he emerge victorious. The 30-year-old relishes the opportunities in front of him to fight for the top spot at super bantamweight.

“I’m excited about this next chapter of my career with PBC and fighting on SHOWTIME®,” said Roman. “I know there will be a lot of big fights that can be made, and I want to thank my promoter Thompson Boxing for always believing in me. At the end of the day, I’m an entertainer and I want to give the fans great fights.”

The unprecedented pay-per-view twin bill features six compelling fights in all, five of which are world title fights, on the same night for one price. Part one of the SHOWTIME PPV telecast begins live at a special time of 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT with the three-fight card topped by unbeaten WBC Champion Jermall Charlo facing top contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko. WBA Super Bantamweight Champion Brandon Figueroa will defend his title against 122-pound contender Damien Vázquez in the co-featured bout, while WBO Bantamweight World Champion John Riel Casimero faces off against unbeaten Duke Micah in the pay-per-view opener.


Following a 30-minute intermission, the second three-fight card, headlined by the historic unification matchup between WBC Super Welterweight ChampionJermell Charlo and IBF and WBA 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario, will begin. Unbeaten former champion Luis Nery will battle undefeatedAaron Alameda for the vacant WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship in the co-feature, while former unified champion Román faces off against former champion Payano in a WBC Super Bantamweight title eliminator bout to open the second installment of the pay-per-view.


The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.


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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
boxing, FITETV

Promoters Paco Presents and Fabrica De Campeones to Livestream All-Action Night of Mexican Boxing on September 21, Live on Fite.TV

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On Monday, September 21, 2020, co-promoters Paco Presents and Fabrica De Campeones will proudly present “SANTIAGO VS. GARCIA” a five-fight night of world-class professional boxing, livestreamed from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, rau FITE.TV (9 pm ET/6 pm PT) for just $6.99.

In the 10-round main event, WBC #8 bantamweight contender Alejandro “Peque” Santiago (21-2-5, 11 KOs) will return to his home base of Tijuana to defend his WBC International Bantamweight Championship against streaking contender Willibaldo Garcia (10-3-1, 5 KOs) of Copala, Guerrero, Mexico.


24-year-old Santiago has not lost a fight since 2014 (going 13-0-4, 7 KOs) and has made a career out of surprising his favored opponents, often in their backyards. The skillful Santiago first came on the boxing radar by battling to a 10-round draw with then undefeated prospect Antonio Nieves for the NABO Championship. Fighting live on ShoBox: Lub cim tshiab, Santiago took control over the back half of the fight and many say deserved the decision.


Txij thaum ntawd los, he has fought to two controversial draws against highly touted Puerto Rican Jose Martinez (both fights in Martinez’s backyard of Puerto Rico), the second for the NABO Super Flyweight Championship.


In September 2018, Santiago had his most impressive performance to date by again fighting to a highly controversial draw, this time against long-time reigning and defending IBF Super Flyweight World Champion Jerwin Ancajas. Many boxing insiders who have watched the fight feel Santiago is now the uncrowned world champion, with one judge even scoring the fight 118-111 for Santiago.


Santiago knows that he has to keep winning while he bides his time for a much-deserved rematch against Ancajas or another world-title opportunity at bantamweight.


“I am very excited to make my first defense of the WBC International Bantamweight Title,” said Santiago. “I know my opponent is very tough and I know he is preparing for the opportunity of a lifetime. I like that! That way there will be no excuses. I have had a great camp and I am ready! There are only two weeks till the fight, and I can hardly wait to prove why I am ranked eighth in the world by the WBC!”


A very live underdog in this intriguing fight, 30-year-old Garcia is undefeated in his last 10 contests. After winning his pro debut, Garcia went a disappointing 0-3-0 (1 NC) in his next four, before turning things around and going 9-0-1 (4 KOs), including an impressive unanimous decision over former world title challenger Dewayne Beamon in his last fight in February of this year.


“I know that this is the opportunity of a lifetime,” said Garcia. “Winning will open doors for me. Camp is going great! I have had some great sparring and I am in the best shape of my life! I hope Santiago is ready because this is going to be a war! I am going to make him fight for the entire fight! His promoter made a big mistake giving me over two months to prepare and I already told him that I am going to knock him out!”


In the night’s 10-round co-main event, popular hometown veteran Victor “Chucky” Sandoval (33-3, 21 KOs) will take on fellow Mexican Kevin “Desvalagado” Villanueva (16-2-3, 12 KOs) for the WBC International Super Flyweight Championship.


23-year-old Sandoval, already a seven-year professional veteran, is a fan favorite in his hometown of Tijuana. “Chucky” has won 21 straight fights, dating back to 2016. He was last seen scoring an eighth-round stoppage of countryman Javier Alejandro Rendon (then 10-3-3) in November of last year.


“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity,” said Sandoval. “I know that it is going to be an incredibly good fight because I have a high-quality opponent. We are preparing very strongly for this fight, despite the challenges since most gyms have been closed. I like to box, show my skills however I also like to brawl. I am preparing to give the fans a great fight and come out victorious!”


20-year-old Villanueva, from Guasave, Sinaloa, has lost just one fight in his last 16. A strong puncher with an aggressive style. Since turning pro in 2017, Villanueva has fought exclusively in Mexico, but hopes to use a victory over Sandoval as a steppingstone to the international stage.


“I am ecstatic for this opportunity,” said Villanueva. “It means a giant step forward in my career. We are working extremely hard and I have a trainer that pushes me to the limit. Come September 21, I will be ready to give and take, and there is no doubt in my mind that I will come out on top! He has a great record, but he hasn’t fought anyone at my level. My objective is to become a world champion.”


Also scheduled for action that night is a fantastic early crossroads fight between up-and-coming Mexican prospects as the ever-improving Cristian “Lacandonsito” Cruz (12-5, 6 KOs), the son of former IBO and IBF Featherweight Champion Cristóbal “Lacandón” Cruz, will face once-beaten Diego “FlaKO” Aleman (12-1-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight war. This fight, between all-action battlers, has potential “Fight of the Night” written all over it.


“I am focused and ready for this fight,” said Cristian Cruz. “My opponent has been in the ring with some good fighters, but so have I. When I heard my opponents name, I got very motivated because I know this is going to be one of my most difficult fights yet.”
To open the broadcast, Tijuana’s Gilberto Espinoza (11-2, 6 KOs) will take on Ensenada’s power-punching Saul Guardado (8-1, 7 KOs) in a highly competitive six-round lightweight brawl and to open the show, two undefeated flyweights will do battle for four rounds, as Los Mochis, Sinaloa’s Bryan Luna (5-0, 3 KOs) will face Ensenada’s Felipe Ayon (1-0-1, 1 KOs).


FITE.TV is the premiere digital network for direct-to-consumer digital live streaming for combat sports, specializing in professional wrestling, mixed martial arts and boxing events. To millions of fans around the world, FITE.TV streams a rich array of live pay-per-view events, subscription packages and thousands of hours of live and on-demand free programs with a mission to help fans discover and watch premium live events. FITE.TV is the leading digital distributor for the industry’s marquee events, including AEW, Impact, WWE, KSI-Logan Paul 2 from Matchroom, Canelo vs GGG 1 & 2 from GBP / HBO, Pacquiao-Thurman from PBC / Hma liab, Plaws sab saum toj / ESPN PPV, ROH, BKFC, NWA, GCW, ONE, Combate, RIZIN, MOTO FITE Klub and FMX FITE Klub, Rumble on the Rooftop, Major Concerts, Tennis, Basketball, Soccer events and more.


“This is our first event on FITE.TV,” said event co-promoter, Paco Damian of Paco Presents. “Fans can expect a night of all action-packed fights. Alejandro Santiago is a top contender who has fought successfully against many first-class fighters in their backyards. However, he has to take care of business against a tough competitor in Willibaldo Garcia. Tune in on Monday, September 21. This is a show that you don’t want to miss!”


For more information please go to our website at pacopresentsboxing.com. Follow us on Twitter at @PacoPresentsBox, Instagram @PacoPresents, as well as like us on Facebook atfacebook.com/PacoPresentsBoxing.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

TOP SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDERS COLLIDE AS ERICKSON LUBIN AND TERRELL GAUSHA MEET IN TITLE ELIMINATOR LIVE ON SHOWTIME® SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 IN EVENT PRESENTED BY PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

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Hard-Hitting Tugstsogt Nyambayar Battles Unbeaten Cobia Breedy in Co-Main Event and Unbeaten Welterweight Jaron Ennis Takes On Juan Carlos Abreu in Telecast Opener

NEW YORK – September 3, 2020 – Top 154-pound contenders go toe-to-toe as hard-hitting Erickson “Hammer” Lubin battles 2012 U.S. Olympian Terrell Gaushain a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator headlining a three-fight event presented by Premier Boxing Champions on Saturday, September 19 live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

Tus SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features Mongolia’s Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar stepping in to face unbeaten Cobia “Soldier” Breedy in the 10-round featherweight co-main event bout. The telecast opener will see one of the top prospects in boxing, unbeaten welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis, squaring off against the Dominican Republic’s Juan Carlos Abreu in a 10-round matchup.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The Ennis vs. Abreu bout is promoted in association with D & D Boxing.

“The super welterweight division is red-hot, and the winner between Erickson Lubin and Terrell Gausha on September 19 will be in a prime position to be the next 154-pound world champion, including a possible matchup against the following week’s Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario winner,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Erickson Lubin has been on a tear since his only loss, showing his growth from the Prospect Of The Year to a top contender. Terrell Gausha has an impressive pedigree dating back to his time as a U.S. Olympian and like Lubin, he can earn a second world title opportunity with a win on September 19. Add in two exciting undercard attractions, and this is yet another fight card on SHOWTIME that boxing fans won’t want to miss.”

The 24-year-old Lubin (22-1, 16 KOs) has put together an impressive four-bout winning streak since a loss to Jermell Charlo in 2017. He became the first person to stop former champion Ishe Smith, and most recently, he dominated Nathaniel Gallimore to earn a decision in October. A native of Orlando, Fla., Lubin is trained by renowned coach Kevin Cunningham as he continues his quest to another title opportunity. After a stellar amateur career, Lubin turned pro at 18 years old in 2013, eventually being named Prospect Of The Year by ESPN and Ring Magazine in 2016.

“I’m focused and ready to make my 2020 debut on SHOWTIME,” said Lubin. “Terrell Gausha has been in the ring with a few good fighters and he’s also an Olympian, so I know he has the experience, but I’m expecting to dominate him. My mindset will be to execute my game plan and come out on top. I’m going to show the world that I’m one of the best 154 pounders out there and I’m ready to put a strap around my waist. It’s Hammer time!”

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (21-1-1, 10 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif., where he is trained by Manny Robles. The 32-year-old is coming off a split draw against former world champion Austin Trout in May 2019. Gausha won his first 20 professional fights, before suffering his only career defeat in a 2017 world title showdown against Erislandy Lara.

“Training camp has obviously been a little different ahead of this fight, but we’ve done what we need to, and I’ll be ready on September 19,” said Gausha. “This is a big fight for me, being my second chance at getting to a world title. I know Lubin is a young, good fighter and I’m sure he’ll also be ready. But this is my fourth southpaw in a row, so I’m very prepared for this fight and I’m going to show that I’m on another level.”

The 28-year-old Nyambayar (11-0, 9 KOs) won a silver medal representing his native Mongolia in the 2012 Olympics. He now lives and trains in Las Vegas. Nyambayar ascended the featherweight rankings after his extensive amateur career with victories over then unbeaten Harmonito Dela Torre and former interim champion Oscar Escandon. Nyambayar earned his first world title shot before earning the title shot when he defeated former champion Claudio Marrero in January 2019. The Mongolian dropped his most recent fight against long-reigning WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. in February on SHOWTIME.

“I am excited to step in the ring and perform on September 19,” said Nyambayar. “The change in opponent to Breedy will have no effect on me. This is the fight game, so you always have to be prepared. I was already working hard and I will continue to work day by day to be at my very best when I compete on fight night.”

The 28-year-old Breedy (15-0, 5 KOs), from Bridgetown, Barbados and fighting out of Hyattsville, Md., turned pro in 2014 and trains in Barry Hunter’s Headbangers Gym in Washington, D.C. Fighting under the nickname “Soldier”, Breedy served three years in the Barbadian military. Inside the ring, he most recently stopped Titus Williams in December, capping off a successful 2019 where he added three wins to his unblemished record. Having campaigned at both 130 thiab 135 pounds, Breedy is looking to make a name for himself in the competitive 126-pound division.

“I’m very grateful for this opportunity and I’m thankful to my team for getting me this fight,” said Breedy. “I stay in the gym and I’m always prepared and staying ready. I have that mindset so I can take advantage of any opportunity that comes my way. My opponent is a good fighter, but on September 19, tune in and watch me go to war. The world will get to know who I am. I’m going to give 100 percent. I can do anything in the ring, and I will show it on fight night.”

A native of boxing-rich Philadelphia, Pa., the supremely talented Ennis (25-0, 23 KOs) returns to the ring after stopping Bakhtiyar Eyubov in January. Ennis scored two emphatic knockout victories on ShoBox: Lub cim tshiab nyob rau hauv 2018 before adding two more KO wins to his ledger in 2019. As his level of opposition has steadily increased since turning professional in 2016, the switch-hitter has scored 15 consecutive knockouts and 13 knockdowns in his six most recent bouts. “Boots,” who has yet to be pushed past the sixth round, was a standout amateur who won the 2015 National Golden Gloves and was ranked as the No. 1 amateur at 141 pounds before turning pro.

“I’m getting better every single day, sharper every single day, and smarter every single day during training camp,” said Ennis. “I don’t know much about my opponent, but not too many guys have been able to withstand my power and I don’t expect this to be any different. I’m just focused on myself, preparing so I can go into the ring, have fun, look phenomenal for everybody tuning in on SHOWTIME and come out victorious.”

Born in the Dominican Republic, Abreu (23-5-1, 21 KOs) has now lived and trained in Salem, Mass., for the last five years. The 33-year-old has battled a slew of top welterweights throughout his career, including Jamal James and Egidijus Kavaliauskas, while also earning a TKO victory over Jesus Soto-Karass. Abreu has never been stopped.

“Jaron Ennis is a great contender with good boxing IQ, speed and decent power, but this is not my first rodeo,” said Abreu. “I have fought first-class opposition and I would like to dance some good Merengue with him. I am having a great camp and I am excited and motivated by this opportunity. It is clear to me that this is a do-or-die fight for me, and therefore, come September 19, I am preparing mentally and physically to leave everything in that ring.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JERMELL CHARLO vs. JEISON ROSARIO KICK-OFF PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AHEAD OF FIRST-EVER SHOWTIME PPV®DOUBLEHEADER ON SEPTEMBER 26

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Nyem qhov OS for Action Photos / Credit: SHOWTIME
And OS for Action Photos / Credit: TGB Promotions

NEW YORK – September 1, 2020 – WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBA and IBF 154-pound world champion Jeison Rosario previewed their blockbuster unification showdown during a virtual kick-off press conference Tuesday as they near their main event battle on part two of the first-ever SHOWTIME PPV doubleheader on Saturday, September 26 in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Five of the six fighters who will be competing in part two of the unprecedented event participated in today’s media call. Unbeaten former champion Luis Nery will battle undefeated Aaron Alameda for the vacant WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship in the co-feature, while former unified champion Daniel Roman faces off against former champion Juan Carlos Payano in a WBC Super Bantamweight title eliminator bout to open the second installment of the pay-per-view. Nery was unable to participate in the call due to technical issues.

Here is what the virtual press conference participants had to say Tuesday:

JERMELL CHARLO:

“I’m stronger and faster than I’ve ever been. Camp has been amazing. I can’t believe I got in shape so fast, but I really never got out of shape. I make investments in myself and I do my homework.

“Congratulations to Rosario for getting the chance to move up to this level. But I know what I possess in the ring when I choose to let it out of me. I’m more ready for this fight than any fight I’ve ever had.

“My legacy is on the line. I feed my family this way. It’s not about what we’re going to say. It’s no secret about how I fight. I’m dangerous and I feel even more dangerous now. I’m excited to go 12 muab suav. My capacity and skills are exceeding all of these guys in the division. I’m way hungrier now. The fire has been lit in me.

“A lot of people were surprised Jeison won against Julian Williams, but I actually wasn’t. Williams was dealing with a lot. But I’m a different kind of fighter. My dedication is different than everyone.

“Me and my brother have always been doubted. As I mature, I don’t care about what anyone on the outside says. I don’t care who makes the rankings. My job is to box. That was once my hobby. I’ve been doing this forever and I’ve grown into this. I’m a different animal. Just like Rosario had to come up the levels, I did that as well. I’m maintaining where I’m at because of my hard work and the way I fight. All you have to do is put me out there and I’m going to go get it for you.

“I believe my last two fights and the different styles that Tony Harrison had have helped me. Tony is a great fighter. You look at his record and you know he can punch, but I’m just different. That’s what made me come out on top and made the first fight close. The experience I had in those fights will give me even more of an edge coming into this fight.

“There’s so many things I do that make me believe I’m the best in the division. I can go on and on, but I’m a lion in the cage, let me out and see what happens.

“I’m strong from the first round to the end. If it goes to 12, then it goes that far. I’m smart and know how to set up traps. I’m not going to divulge the game plan, but I’m not playing around in the ring.”

JEISON ROSARIO:

“This is going to be a great war. I’m dedicated and motivated for this fight and I know what it means to face a fighter of Jermell’s quality, so the training has been going great. I’m so ready.

“I am even hungrier now than I was before I won the titles. I’m more motivated. The desire inside of me and the fire inside of me is burning to win this fight against a great fighter in Jermell Charlo. Like the Dominican people say, ‘we have to keep moving forward’ and that’s what I plan to do in this fight.

“Jermell Charlo and Julian Williams are definitely two different types of fighters. I think Williams has a little more quickness but Jermell is definitely stronger and has more power. That’s why I’ve had to prepare a little differently for this fight. In regards to who I feel is the better fighter – I don’t want to take anything away from either guy. Williams was a great fighter and he was considered No. 1 when I fought him, which is now the same position that Jermell Charlo is in. They both have their merits but I wouldn’t say which one is the better fighter. Jermell is considered the best fighter at 154 right now.

“One thing that has changed since my loss to Nathaniel Gallimore in 2017 is my maturity. As the fights get bigger and more important, I definitely stepped up to the occasion and to the challenge. I’m training harder and there is more focus on this fight coming up.

“This fight means a lot to me. It’s definitely the most important fight of my career and I’m very thankful. I’m thankful to my trainer and for this opportunity that’s been given to me to fight the best fighter in the division. This is a great moment and some people think I won’t win. I know it’s going to be electric.

“I consider this to be my time. Empires fall. Presidents fall. Kingdoms fall. It’s all very interesting because under Charlo’s brand, you have the lion and you have the hunter and all that. But during the fight, you’re going to find out who really is the hunter. I’m a warrior and we’re going to see that night who really is the hunter and who is the one that’s going to be hunted.”

AARON ALAMEDA:

“We’ve been training very hard and we know we have a tough opponent in Luis Nery, but we’re ready for him.

“In all honesty, maybe the names that you see on paper that I’ve faced are not in Nery’s class, but when you see me on September 26, you’re going to know what I’m made of.

“It’s true that Nery has had trouble making weight before but that’s his problem. If he makes weight or if he doesn’t, I’m not bothered by that. I’m focused on what I need to do on September 26, so I haven’t really focused on whether he is going to make weight. I am the one who is going to be ready.

“This is definitely a step-up for me, we aren’t denying that. But strategically, we have worked on certain things that we know are going to help come fight night. We’ve seen a lot of video on Luis Nery and learned how we need to approach this fight. We’ve seen a couple things that we can do and that’s what we’re going to do on September 26.

“There were a few opponents that I fought that were difficult but one in particular was [Enrique] Bernache in Guadalajara. He was fighting in his hometown and he had his people behind him but we still won that fight. The person that has hit me the hardest? His name was [Juan] Jimenez, and we still overcame the power he showed that night to win.

“I have fought a couple southpaws in my career and I actually feel better against southpaws than I do against orthodox fighters.

“There’s no doubt that Nery is a powerful puncher but we have to see how he’s going to come out – if he’s coming out boxing or if he’s going to look for the knockout immediately. We have a strategy for whichever way he comes out. We’ll be ready for it.”

DANIEL ROMAN:

“Everything is going great in training. We’ve made some adjustments due to the pandemic, but I’ll be at my best on September 26. We’re two former champions, so this is going to be a quality fight. We’re going to try to make it our night.

“The goal is to get back to the world title, but I’m not overlooking Payano. He’s a quality fighter. We have to get past him and then hopefully we can get the rematch with Murodjon Akhmadaliev.

“Payano lost to big names and quality fighters. Anything can happen in a fight, so I’m getting ready for anything. I’m prepared to fight the best Payano possible. I’m not taking him lightly. This is like if I was defending the belt against another world champion.

“I’m more focused than ever now. I didn’t think I lost my last fight, I thought I took it. Now my mind is set on Payano, so we’re just continuing to work as hard as when I was champion. It’s one step at a time. First it’s Payano, then we’ll see after that.

“Losing my titles has motivated me even more. I know what my next goal is. I’m not overlooking Payano, but I’m looking to get that rematch next.”

JUAN CARLOS PAYANO:

“We definitely respect Danny Roman. He’s a great fighter, but this is the opportunity of a lifetime. We’ve trained hard and you’re going to see the best of Payano for this fight.

“We committed errors in those two fights we lost to Inoue and Nery where they took me down but we’ve come in prepared knowing that we are fighting another good fighter in Danny Roman and we have really prepared well so that it doesn’t happen again. You do learn from your errors in these fights so that’s why when I come out, you’ll see a different Juan Carlos Payano on September 26.

“I’ve always fought hard in all my fights, but especially this one because we are looking at the end of my career. I know I need a great showing for the fans, so there is definitely an extra urgency to show the best of me.

“A boxer never reveals what he is going to bring into the ring but I’m definitely going to be more precise. That’s something I didn’t have in my two losses. I can’t be too desperate. I found that I was desperate in those two fights when I could have been more precise and do a better job in those aspects of the fight.

“I’ve been boxing since I was six years old and I’ve given my life to boxing. It’s been a great run. I respect Danny Roman enormously and the people can expect two warriors to get in the ring on September 26 and give their all. The fans know that this is what I always give them and that night will be no different.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer:

“Training camp has been good. Jermell’s been getting better and better. I’ve been pleased with what I’m seeing and it’s still early in training camp. We’re going to continue to build leading up to the fight. We know we have a very tough guy we’re facing, but I believe everyone we’ve faced is tough. We’re going in there to be at our best.

“I think that the victory would be beautiful, but I’m not thinking about what it would do for me. The best things is what it would mean for Jermell to have three belts. This is about legacy. It’s about a legacy fight for Jermell and myself.

“Rosario is a good fighter. He’s had a gradual progression from when I watched him fight Justin DeLoach and then moving on to fight Williams. He’s getting better. We know what we’re looking at. We know as the champ, he might come in as a different fighter. So we have to be better also. It’s a great challenge but we’re looking forward to it.

“I saw Rosario’s fights before Williams, so I knew he would be tough. I was surprised how it went down because Williams is a strong fighter. But Rosario really showed out and he had the right shots to get him out of there. We expect a great fighter on September 26.”

LUIS “CHIRO” PEREZ, Rosario’s Trainer:

“Training camp has been great. Everything went exactly the way we wanted it to and then some. Even through these times, we were able to do our full training camp the way we wanted it. There have been no obstacles.

“Jeison is stronger and smarter than ever. We’re looking forward to showing that we belong with this competition. We know it’s a tall order against the best 154-pound fighter in the world, but we want his position. He’s the man at this weight class and we want to prove to the world that we belong on that level.

“Jeison had never done a real training camp in his life until recently. He trained any way he could figure out and he would take a lot of last minute fights. That changed for the Williams fight and that’s changed for this fight. Everything he’s overcome, he’s done with desire. He’s doing the proper training camp now and eating the proper way. I think you have to knock Rosario out to beat him. September 26, we’re going to see if I’m right.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.:

“Top to bottom, this is the highest quality card I’ve ever been associated with. Over the last few years, there have been a lot of new companies and a lot of activity in boxing and even with all the money, the deals, the companies, and everything they’re supposedly bringing to the table, no one has been doing this kind of event. No one else is doing cards at this level — this big and with this much quality. This is an event for the true fight fan. World champion after world champion, a collection of some of the best fighters in the world all on one card. Six fights, five of them world title fights, all on one pay-per-view.

“This is a card full of bangers. The one fight that’s not a world title fight, the one between Danny Roman and Juan Carlos Payano, is a matchup between a former unified champion and a former world champion – so there’s no shortage of accomplishments there. You have unbeaten former champion Luis Nery, who is coming off a streak of 11 consecutive knockouts, moving up into a new weight class to take on undefeated Aaron Alameda. Our second main event of the evening, Jermell Charlo and Jeison Rosario, like the first one, is a matchup between the top two boxers currently fighting in the division. We don’t need exaggeration or hyperbole. Simply put, this is the best fight that can be made in the super welterweight division.”

* * *

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
boxing, Granite puab tsaig

Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe crowned N.E. heavyweight champion

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Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe (L) punched his way to the N.E. heavyweight title
(all pictures courtesy of Emily Harney/Fitography)

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DERRY, N.H. (Lub yim hli ntuj 30, 2020) – Two regional title bouts, supported by several stay-busy fights, highlighted Granite Chin Promotion’s first pro boxing event since this past November, ‘Return to Derry,” last night (Sat., Aug. 29), in front of a near capacity crowd at New England Sports Center in Derry, New Hampshire.

Two world champions were in attendance to support the fighters, undefeated reigning World Boxing Organization (WBO) middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade thiab“El Gallo” Jose Antonio Rivera, the retired 3-time, 2-division title holder.

“I’m glad that tonight we took as step forward towards normalcy,” promoter Chris Traietti commented. Sports help to bring people together and tonight we had a packed house with people of all races, religions, and creeds. I’m happy these Americans enjoyed themselves here tonight.”

Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe was crowned New England heavyweight champion by way of an 8-round unanimous decision over Tracey “Titan” Johnson in the main event.

Rolfe vs. Johnson II was a rematch of a 6-round majority draw last November in Quincy, Massachusetts. A lot more was at stake in the rematch, though, because the N.E. heavyweight title was on the line. Boston southpaw Johnson, the half-brother of Andrade, methodically boxed, while Maine-resident Rolfe came forward throwing bombs, and their contrast of styles made for a entertaining fight.

The elusive Johnson started finding his range in the fourth round, connecting with combinations as Rolfe appeared to tire, but he got his second wind and continued to be aggressive, often pinning Johnson on the ropes. The two evenly matched fighters went back and forth in the latter half of the fight, although Rolfe pressed the action and Johnson countered. Neither appeared to be hurt at any point during the bout., Both let loose in the eighth and final round, leaving nothing in the tank. Rolfe’s non-stop attack and turned out to be the difference in this match-up.

Ryan DiBartolomeo captured the vacant New Hampshire welterweight title, taking a 6-round split decision over Kris Jacobs, in the co-featured event. “I live in Massachusetts but all my fights (3-0-1) have been in New Hampshire and I train in Nashua (NH),” DiBartolomeo said after the fight. “Fighting in New Hampshire is like fighting at home and now I’m the New Hampshire welterweight champ.”

DiBartolemeo quickly came out of the corner and soon dropped Jacobs for an 8-count. Jacobs made it through the opening round, but he was unable to avoid the free-swinging DiBartolemeo’s strong right hand, peppering his opponents head, in round two. Jacobs settled down in the third, picked-up the pace in the fourth, and started letting his hands go more in the fifth, landing more effectively on his aggressive foe. The two fighters went at it toe-to-toe in the final round and DiBartolemeo closed the show.

New England middleweight champion Kendrick Ball, ❏ Jr ❏., fighting light heavyweight Tahuk Taylor, displayed his skill set to the maximum, blasting his opponent to the mat with a sweet straight right, again with a beautiful left hook, and he was about to close the show when refereeJackie Morell mercifully ended the fight with 13-seconds left in round one.

Popular junior welterweight Mike “Bad Man” OHan, ❏ Jr ❏. did just about everything but stop gritty DeWayne Wisdom, who was penalized two points and officially floored once. But he survived, albeit losing a lop-sided 6-round unanimous decision to Ohan.

New England Golden Gloves champion Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan dismissed Rashan Wisdom, who went down on the canvas twice before his corner threw in the towel. Hogan is a tall, lanky southpaw who is well schooled and now 2-0 (2 KOs).

In a spirited fight, undefeated light heavyweight Edet “Papito” Mkpanam (4-0, 3 KOs) was relentless against a game Saul “Spider” Almeida, one of the top mixed-martial-arts fighters in New England. Mkpanan dropped Almeida in the first two rounds on his way to a tough 4-round unanimous decision.

Promising Boston lightweight prospect Jonathan Depina outclassed Theo “The Unholy Truth” Desjardin, flooring him early and finishing him off soon after with a blistering shot, to improve to 2-0 (2 KOs).

Middleweight Anthony Concepcion won by way of a third-round disqualification when his opponent, pro-debuting Caleb Denham, ignored the referee’s instructions to continue fighting.

Middleweight Larry “Slomoshun” Smith, fighting out of Dallas, recorded his first victory in more than nine years, taking a 4-round unanimous decision from Jesus “The Juice” Cintron. The 41-year-old Smith, 0-39-2 during his winless streak, dropped Anderson in the first round.


Larry Smith celebrated after his first win in 9 xyoo

Texas light heavyweight Bryan Vera knocked out Mike Anderson with a big right hand early in round one. Referee Leo Gerstel immediately waved off the count right after Anderson hit the mat. Vera, who is known for his participating in The Contender reality television show, has defeated world champions Sergio Mora (twice), then-undefeated Andy Lee thiab Serhiy Dzinziruk during his 16-year pro career.

Veteran junior middleweight Cliff “Magician” McPherson had no tricks for Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey because he was disqualified in the second round by referee Morrell for repeated holding.

Opening the night was a cruiserweight match between Larry “Hitman” Pryor thiab Francisco Neto. It didn’t take long for Pryor, whose cousin was the late, Hall of Famer Aaron “Hawk” Pryor, put down Neto with a nicely placed left hook. Neto beat the count but stood on wobbly legs, leading referee Gerstel to halt the fight at the 35-second mark of the opening round.

Complete results below:


OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – VACANT NEW ENGLAND. HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Justin Rolfe (4-1-1, 3 KOs), Fairfield, ME
WDEC8 (79-73, 79-73, 78-74)
Tracey Johnson (4-8-6, 0 KOs), Boston, MA
(Rolfe won the N.E. heavyweight title)

CO-FEATURE – VACANT NEW HAMPSHIRE WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Ryan DiBartolomeo (3-0-1, 1 KO), Leominster, MA
WDEC6 (59-54, 59-54, 56-57)
Kris Jacobs (2-1-1, 0 KOs), Fall River, MA
(DiBartolomeo won vacant N.H. welterweight title)

CRUISERWEIGHTS
Larry Pryor (12-22, 6 KOs), Frederickson, MD
WTKO1 (0.35)
Francisco Neto (1-9), Woburn, MA

SIB HEAVYWEIGHTS
Kendrick Ball, ❏ Jr ❏. (15-1-2, 11 KOs), Worcester, MA

Tahuk Taylor (3-12-1, 1 KO), Greensboro, NC

Edet Mkpanam (4-0, 3 KOs), New Bedford, MA
WDEC4 (40-35, 39-36, 39-36)
Saul Almeida (0-12), Framingham, MA

Bryan Vera (27-16, 17 KOs), Auston, TX
WKO1 (1:01)
Mike Anderson (0-6), Philadelphia, PAJ

MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Francis Hogan (2-0, 2 KOs), Weymouth, MA
WTKO1 (1:37)
Rashan Blackburn (8-54-2, 4 KOs), Columbus, OH

Larry Smith (11-44-2, 7 KOs), Dallas, TX
WEC4 (40-35, 40-36, 40-36)
Jesus Javier Cintron (1-14-2, 0 KOs), Asbury Park, NJ

Anthony Concepcion (5-0-1, 4 KOs). Providence, RI
WDQ3 (152)
Caleb Denham (0-1, 0 KOs), Jamaica Plain, MA

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Tyrone Luckey (10-12-4, 7 KOs), Little Egg Harbor, NJ
WDQ2 (2:51)
Cliff McPherson (2-41-1, 1 KO), Cleveland, OH

Mike Ohan, ❏ Jr ❏. (10-1, 5 KOs), Holbrook, MA
WDEC6 (60-52, 59-54, 59-54)
DeWayne Wisdom (7-54-2, 3 KOs), Indianapolis, IN
LIGHTWEIGHTS
Jonathan Depina (2-0, 2 KOs), Boston, MA
WKO1 (2:17)
Theo Desjarden (0-12), Wrentham, MA
boxing, women's boxing

SUPERSTAR CLARESSA SHIELDS NAMED WOMEN’S BOXING #1 POUND-FOR-POUND BY THE RING AND ESPN

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Women’s boxing superstar Claressa Shields has added two more impressive distinctions to her already unparalleled boxing career laurels.


25-year-old “T-Rex” Shields (10-0, 2 KOs), currently the unified WBC and WBO World Female Super Welterweight and WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO Middleweight Champion, has been named #1 in both The Ring and ESPN’s inaugural pound-for-pound women’s rankings of the best female fighters in the world.


During an exciting renaissance for the sport, Shields was able to best a strong lineup of female fighters including Irish unified lightweight champion Katie Taylor, seven-division champ Amanda Serrano, Norway’s long-time undisputed queen Cecilia Braekhus and her recent conqueror Jessica McCaskill.


Among her many accomplishments, Shields is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and the first American boxer – female or male – to win consecutive Olympic boxing gold medals. She became Unified Super Middleweight World Champion in her fourth professional fight, Unified Middleweight World Champion in her sixth professional fight and Unified Super Welterweight World Champion in her tenth. She also holds the record for becoming a two and three-weight world champion in the fewest professional fights and is one of only seven boxers in history, female or male, to hold all four major world titles in boxing—WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO—simultaneously.


“Claressa is the driving force for women’s boxing!” said her promoter, Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions. “I am happy to see that ESPN, the worldwide leader in sports, and the well-respected “Bible of Boxing” Ring Magazine unanimously and indisputably recognize Claressa’s incredible accomplishments as the best in the world.”


“I’m proud to see two more Herstoric achievements added to the unprecedented resume of Claressa Shields,” said her manager, Mark Taffet, President of Mark Taffet Media. “She continues her march toward equality for female boxers using her broad shoulders from both an athletic and a social perspective. I look forward to the day when she appears on the top pound-for-pound list among the men with no gender labels.”
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime

RISING STAR DAVID BENAVIDEZ REMAINS UNDEFEATED WITH DOMINATING STOPPAGE WIN OVER ALEXIS ANGULO SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®

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Mayweather Promotions’ Rolando Romero Scores Unanimous Decision Over Previously Unbeaten Jackson Maríñez for Interim WBA Lightweight Title; Otto Wallin TKOs Travis Kauffman In Heavyweight Scrap

Nyem qhov OS For Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
(Photos will be uploaded shortly)

UNCASVILLE, Conn. – August 16, 2020 – David Benavidez kept his unbeaten record intact after 23 fights with a dominating performance against Alexis Angulo in the main event of an exciting night of boxing live on SHOWTIME Saturday night from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
(For highlights, click OS)

In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader card, the 23-year-old Benavídez (23-0, 20 KOs) – who lost his WBC world title belt on the scale on Friday – scored a stoppage victory against the former world title challenger Angulo (26-2, 22 KOs), whose corner threw in the towel after the 10th round.

“I rate myself a solid eight,” Benavidez said. “I could have done some stuff better, but overall it was a great performance. I didn’t want to go too fast and leave myself exposed for some big shots. He’s a heavy puncher. But like I said, I like to do the stuff that nobody has ever done. Nobody has ever stopped him and I’m pretty sure nobody is ever going to make him look like that again. I demolished him from round one to round 10.”

A seven-year pro at the age of 23, Benavidez landed 56 percent of his power punches in the fight and averaged 29 of 70 punches thrown per round. Benavidez closed the show by landing a career high 54 punches in round 10.

Colombia’s Angulo, now fighting out of Miami, Fla., entered his second world title opportunity riding a three-fight winning streak, but was unable to come counter anything Benavidez threw at him.

Benavidez said he was disappointed and embarrassed by not making the 168-pound weight limit on Friday. “Everything everyone said about me is true,” Benavidez said. “I should be a professional and come in on weight, but this time I couldn’t do it. It’s my first time not making weight in eight years of being a professional.”

“I really have to talk to my promoter to see what’s next,” Benavidez added. “I’ll fight anybody to get back to the spot I was. You could see by this performance tonight, I could put on a great performance against anybody and people will pay to see that. I’m probably going to go right back into training camp to make sure I don’t miss weight.”

In the co-main event, rising lightweight Rolando “Rolly” Romero (12-0, 10 KOs) scored a controversial unanimous decision over previously fellow unbeaten Jackson Maríñez (19-1, 7 KOs) to capture the interim WBA Lightweight Title. The scores were 115-113, 116-112 thiab 118-110, all in favor of Romero.
(For highlights, click OS).

The story of the fight was Maríñez’s reliable jabs as the Dominican fighter won the battle in that department (14 percent compared to Romero’s 10 percent). It was Romero, however, who held the advantage on power punches connecting on 24 percent (31 of 228) compared to 18 percent for Maríñez (72 of 401).

“I don’t think I had a bad performance,” said Romero, who confidently predicted a brutal knockout would end the bout in his pre-fight comments. “I thought I won the fight. Regardless of everything, I’m the world champ now. I’m happy.”

Romero suffered a slight cut above his left eye in the ninth round on a head butt, but it didn’t seem to affect his performance in the championship rounds. “He came out a little bit tougher and slicker than what I thought,” Romero said. “But all he did was move around the entire fight. He didn’t even try to engage. It’s hard to knock out someone who doesn’t try to engage. I hurt him multiple times with body shots and a few hooks. There was one moment I hurt him with a right hand and he pulled my head down. It was just hard to finish him off.

“Yeah [I would give him a rematch]. He didn’t do anything special.”

The 29-year-old Maríñez, who holds the WBA’s No. 6 ranking, is trained by Robert Garcia, who was not present in the Maríñez’s corner electing not to travel cross country from his Southern California home.

“That was pure robbery,” Maríñez said. “I won the fight. I out-jabbed, out-boxed him. You could tell he didn’t think he won the fight right afterwards. It’s a robbery.”

In the opening bout of the telecast, heavyweight contender Otto Wallin recorded a TKO at 2:32 of the fifth round against Travis Kauffman, who re-tore his left labrum at the start of the fifth round and was unable to lift his arm. Referee Michael Ortega signaled the end of the fight and afterwards Kauffman announced he was retiring from boxing, just days ahead of his 35th birthday.
(For highlights, click OS)

The 29-year-old Wallin (21-1, 14 KOs) who had a four-inch height advantage over Kauffman, said he felt for the injured Kauffman, but was dominating the fight. “I was breaking him down. I had a lot left,” Wallin said. “Too bad he hurt his shoulder in the end, but I was breaking him and hitting him with good clean shots.”

Wallin looked sharp in his return to the ring for the first time since he nearly defeated Tyson Fury in September 2019. He landed 12 jabs per round and 54 percent of his power shots throughout the fight. Currently living in New York City and originally Representing his native Sundsvall, Sweden, Wallin had former champion Joey Gamache in his corner for the bout.

Both fighters have recovered from injury in the recent past, as well as the COVID-19 virus. “I didn’t feel anything from COVID,” Wallin said. “I had great training. I was sick in March, but COVID didn’t hit me very hard. I was lucky. I’m sorry for everyone who lost their lives due to COVID.

“I want to go back to New York next and relax a little bit. I’ve been training for a long time now, almost a year. So I want to relax a little bit and hopefully I can fight again by the end of the year.”

The 34-year-old Kauffman (32-4, 23 KOs) from Reading, Pa., was fighting for the first time in five years and seven fights without his trainer Naazim Richardson, who died unexpectedly last month. After the fight, Kauffman said he was retiring from boxing.

“I tore my left labrum getting ready for the [Luis] Ortiz fight,” Kauffman said. “Like a dummy, I waited five months to have surgery on it after the Ortiz fight [December of 2018]. I started feeling better and was going to do a tune-up fight in March, but then COVID happened. This opportunity came up and I didn’t want to pass it up and I felt good. In the first round I hurt it. I felt it, but then it went away and I thought maybe it’s just my mind and it went away. Then in the fifth round I heard it and that was it. It was torn again.

“I’m done. I’m retiring. I have kids. I’ve been doing this a long time,” Kauffman said.

During the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast, there were several important updates to the upcoming September 26 SHOWTIME PPV twin bill featuring the world champion Charlo twins, which will start live at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Five of the six bouts of the unique doubleheader all for one price will be contested with a World Championship belt at stake.

The first card is headlined by Jermall Charlo defending his WBC Middleweight title as he will face No. 1-ranked contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko. All-action Brandon Figueroa will defend his WBA Super Bantamweight title against Damien Vasquez. WBO Bantamweight titlist John Riel Casimero will defend his 122-pound belt against an opponent to be named.

After an intermission, the pay-per-view will feature three more fights with a 154-pound unification serving as the main event as WBC champion Jermell Charlo takes on WBA and IBF titlist Jeison Rosario. Luis Nery faces Aaron Alameda for the vacant WBC Super Bantamweight title and former unified world champion Danny Roman takes on Juan Carlos Payano in a Super Bantamweight special attraction.

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast, the second of a nine-event television lineup taking place over the next five months, will replay on Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

An industry leading production team and announce crew delivered all the sights, sounds and drama from Mohegan Sun Arena. Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer hosted the telecast, versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo called the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion and Olympian Abner Mares providing expert analysis. Two Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer was David Dinkins, ❏ Jr ❏. and the Director was Bob Dunphy.

The telecast was available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programing (SAP) with Alejandro Luna and former world champion Raul Marquez calling the action.

Saturday’s fights are presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing and the Wallin-Kauffman bout is promoted in association with Salita Promotions and Kings Promotions.

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
boxing

Undefeated Super Middleweight Prospects Juan Barajas & Jose Resendiz Headlining RJJ Boxing Promotions card

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BOUTS WILL STREAM LIVE & EXCLUSIVELY ON UFC FIGHT PASS®

AUG. 27 FROM MARINATERRA HOTEL & SPA IN SAN CARLOS, MEXICO

LAS VEGAS (Lub yim hli ntuj 11, 2020) – Undefeated super middleweight prospectsJuan “Just Business” Barajas (11-0, 7 KOs) thiabJose “Toro” Resendiz (11-0, 8 KOs) headline the August 27th RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS® event, starting at 10:30 p.m. LI / 7:30 p.m. PT, from Marinaterra Hotel & Spa in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico.

RJJ Boxing’s first show since January 30th at Yakima Legends Casino in Toppenish, Washington, will be held two nights prior to this event, Aug. 25th at the same venue, headlined by undefeated Mexican knockout specialistSantiago “Somer” Dominguez (21-0, 16 KOs) againstJose Rosario Cazarez (20-5-1, 10 KOs), also streaming live on UFC FIGHT PASS.

Barajas, fighting out of Victorville CA, is a relatively tall super middleweight, standing 6’ 4” with an advantageous 80” reach, whose should feel at home fighting for the 8th time in Mexico. Barajas registered his statement victory, to date, back in May 2019, when he won a 10-round majority decision against 18-4-3Lanell Bellows in Memphis. In his UFC FIGHT PASS debut a year ago, Barajas followed up with an impressive 8-round unanimous decision win versus 20-7-1 Fidel Hernandez in Tucson, AZ.

Upset-minded Resendiz, who hopes to take advantage of this great opportunity, is riding an 8-fight knockout streak into this battle of undefeated prospects.

Another power puncher, Mexican lightweightLuis “Sparring” Gallegos (16-0, 15 KOs) steps up in terms of fighting a quality opponent in fellow MexicanOscar “Terrible” Flores (12, 12 KOs) in the 8-round, co-featured event. This fight doesn’t figure to go the distance, because the two Mexican fighters have 27 combined knockouts in 28 wins. 15 for 16 (Gallegos) thiab 12 12 (Flores).  Gallegos, 22, was a 14-time Mexican National champion who was unable to qualify for the Mexican Olympic Boxing Team due to an unfortunate injury.

Rising-starLester Martinez (4-0, 4 KOs) facesAbraham “Pan” Hernandez (8-2, 4 KOs), of Mexico, in a six round lightweight fight. Last year, Martinez made his pro debut at home in Guatemala City under extremely rare conditions, taking on 3-time, 2-divisionRicardo “El Matador” Mayorga (32-11-1, 26 KOs), who hasn’t fought again since he was stopped in the second round by Martinez. The 24-year-old Martinez, who was a standout amateur boxer, is on a mission to become World champion prior to his 10th pro fight.

Undefeated Colorado welterweightJose Arellano (8-0, 5 KOs), a Mexico native, meetsFlavio Cesar Santos (6-1) in a 6-round match opening live UFC FIGHT PASS streaming.

Also scheduled to fight on the card, off-UFC FIGHT PASS, is Phoenix’ pro-debuting lightweightJose Miguel Valenzuela against his Mexican opponent, Guillermo “El Gratano” Borboa (1-2-1, 1 KO), in a 4-round bout. Other undercard fights will soon be announced.

Card subject to change.

To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visitwww.ufcfightpass.com, or download the UFC app.

INFORMATION: 

Websites:   www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufcfightpass.com 

Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre

Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre

Facebook: /KeithVeltre, /UFCFightPass

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, BOXING PROMOTIONS: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, ❏ Jr ❏. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, ❏ Jr ❏. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing.  RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years.  Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.


Based in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable: NABF super flyweight champion, WBC #16, WBA #14 and IBF #7 Jade Bornea (15, 10 KOs), two-time world title challenger WBO #11 bantamweight Aston Palicte (26-4-1, 22 KOs), former NABA welterweight champion Kendo Castaneda,  former Interim World middleweight title challenger John Vera (19-1 (1 KO), undefeated middleweight prospect Connor Coyle (12-0, 5 KOs), undefeated super middleweight prospect Juan Barajas (11-0, 7 KOs) and former WBC World Youth heavyweight Alexander Flores (18-2-1, 16 KOs).  

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS®: UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. Xav paub ntau ntxiv, please visitwww.ufcfightpass.com.