Tag Archives: boxing

Super-featherweight Prodigy Mario Barrios Has New Opponent in Jose Cen Torres

SAN ANTONIO, TX (September 2, 2015) – Super-Featherweight prodigy, Mario Barrios (10-0, 5 KOs), has a new opponent for his upcoming bout this Sunday, September 6, 2015 at the American Bank Center, in Corpus Christi, Texas.  Barrios who was slated to face Jonathan “Popeye” Perez, will now face Jose Cen Torres (13-8, 1 KO) in an 8-round bout.  Barrios speaks on his new opponent.
“Late substitutions are part of boxing,” said Barrios. “That’s why you must be prepared for any style. Nothing has changed as far as what I’m going to do in the ring.  Our game plan is set and we will be ready for anything Torres brings to the ring.  I’m just excited to be fighting in Texas once again.  I’m looking forward to fighting in front of the fans who will be there to support me.  Texas boxing fans are great!”
The event is headlined by former world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (27-1-1, 22 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Marco Antonio “El Veneno” Rubio (59-7-1, 51 KOs) and features the rematch between bantamweight world champion Jamie McDonnell (26-2-1, 12 KOs) and exciting brawler Tomoki “El Mexicanito” Kameda (31-1, 19 KOs).  Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on CBS will air the event live from the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas Sunday, September 6. The telecast kicks off at 4 PM ET/1 PM PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are priced at $109, $93, $49, $38 and $15, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com, the American Bank Center Box Office or by calling Leija Battah Promotions at (210) 979-3302. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000

 

BROOKLYN BRAWL RECAP:  BOXING STANDS OUT AMONG THE ATTRACTIONS IN CONEY ISLAND

Salita Promotions succeeds with world-class show which ran live on ESPN3.
·         ESPN3 VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
·         PHOTO GALLERY PART I
·         PHOTO GALLERY PART II
·         ESPN3 FULL REPLAY
BROOKLYN, N.Y. (Sept. 2, 2015) – Boxing came back to Coney Island last Tuesday night, and by all accounts, it was a smashing success.
Boxing champion-turned-promoter Dmitriy Salita put together a 10-bout Brooklyn Brawl card, and fans assembled at the Brooklyn Cyclones’ MCU Park were blown away by the shocker ending to the main event.
Veteran Cornelius “Lightning” Lock of Flatbush, Brooklyn, found a home for a nasty left hand, and finished off favorite Alex Miskirtchian in round three of their scheduled ten. Pro boxing came to Coney Island for the first time in 14 years, and didn’t disappoint with a win for the local fighter, who trains at the famed Gleason’s Gym in the County of Kings.
Other winners included Junior Wright, the cruiserweight contender from Chicago aiming at another world title shot; Dimash Niyazov, the NYPD officer moonlighting as a pro hitter; “Trigger” Treysean Wiggins, the fighting pride of Newburgh, N.Y., opening eyes as a solid prospect to watch.
A national, live viewing audience was able to scan the fistic fury as ESPN3 carried three and a half hours of the Brooklyn Brawl, with blow-by-blow man Michael Woods and analyst Brian Adams on the call for Boxing at the Beach. The event will also run on MSG Networks during the month of Sept.; fans can check local listings for the latest broadcast schedule.
“The main event was a very competitive fight and there was an explosive ending,” said Salita, who was blessed with beautiful night, in addition to a bevy of compelling bouts. “Lock scored an upset over a world-ranked, world-class featherweight in Alex Miskirtchian. I believed before the fight that the winner of that one deserves an opportunity at a world title. So, Cornelius Lock put it all together and with such a performance shows he is a threat to all the big names in the division.”
Lock was busy and effective and proved that his left hand puts all future foes on notice. The 36-year-old veteran (23-7-2, 15 KOs), said, “It was a good win against a good fighter rated No. 10 by the IBF. I really took this fight seriously. I had to make a statement that I’m not done, that I still have a lot left. So I knew I had to fight smart, and that’s what I did, use my experience.”
In addition, fans at the ballpark were impressed with the skills of two-time Irish Olympian John Joe Nevin, who scored a stoppage win over Victor Capaceta. Heavy hitter Bahktiyar Eyubov went to 8-0 with 8 KOs, powering past Cory Vom Baur. Brighton Beach brawler Giorgi Gelashvili had the crowd stunned when he overwhelmed DeLoren Gray-Jordon with a lightning-fast salvo of blows in round two, and the colorful “Brooklyn Buddah” Gary Beriguette showed effective aggression in scoring a decision victory over Anton Williamson. Rounding out the card, FDNY firefighter Jose De La Rosa got the W over Kamal Muhammad, and heavyweightEmilio Salas opened things up with a second round TKO at the expense of Glenn Thomas.
Respected former fighter Adams touched on the event from his broadcast position. “I truly believe the card Salita put on was great for the sport,” he said. “There isn’t a great deal of room for local promoters to blossom, but the promotion Salita held was at a world-class level!”
Blow-by-blow man Woods, who is editor of TheSweetScience.com and a contributor for RING, weighed in, saying “We were all pleased and honored to showcase these fights on ESPN3. The stoppage win by Lock was a fitting ending and thriller of a finish, for the entertainment and thrill-seeking destination that is Coney Island!
“I am grateful to ESPN that the fighters on the show had the chance to be seen nationally. I couldn’t have asked for a better evening of boxing in such a stunning venue. Our next show will be Oct. 24 and we are always looking to improve and bring a tremendous level of excitement to the fans,” said Salita, summing up the exciting Boxing At The Beach event.
Brooklyn Brawl Makes Charitable Contributions
When some of the toughest brawlers in the Borough of Brooklyn brandished black and pink gloves last Tuesday, it wasn’t because they were making a fashion statement. The boxers joined their brethren from the NFL, Major League Baseball and the NBA in generating awareness for breast cancer, and the “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” campaign.
The affiliation was announced at the public Brooklyn Brawl weigh-in at MCU Park, as the Brooklyn Brawl and Brooklyn Cyclones donated 50 tickets to cancer charities in Midtown Manhattan, reaching families who have members undergoing cancer treatment in New York City.
Additionally, throughout last Tuesday evening’s event, boxing fans at MCU Park and those watching the live broadcast on ESPN3 were presented with facts about breast cancer and the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer program. Cancer awareness programs are of distinct importance to Brooklyn Brawl promoter Dmitriy Salita.
Said Salita, “I lost my mother to breast cancer when I was 16-years-old. Boxing was a tremendous resource for me, it gave me an outlet and something to lean on. Now we can use boxing as a tool to raise awareness and support for those battling this terrible disease. This very important cause is closest to my heart.”
In addition to the Brooklyn Brawl’s charitable partnership with cancer charities, the Brooklyn Brawl and Brooklyn Cyclones donated 200 Boxing At The Beach tickets to the NYPD and FDNY Widows and Orphans Foundations, and local precincts and fire stations.
“With a Brooklyn police officer and a FDNY firefighter on the boxing card, it was fitting that we gave a special salute to our everyday heroes and families by inviting them to our Brooklyn Brawl event,” said Steve Cohen, Vice President of the Brooklyn Cyclones.  “Our organization always looks for ways to thank the men and women who serve our great city.”
About Brooklyn Brawl
Brooklyn Brawl is a series of electrifying New York City-based boxing events showcasing the talents and skills of fighters from throughout the city, across the country and around the world. Brooklyn Brawl fighters include veteran boxers working their way toward a world title shot, as well as talented prospects, many of whom have already won prestigious national and international amateur titles, including Golden Gloves championships and others. Young contenders often challenge veteran boxers in exciting crossroad title fights that bring winners one step closer to a world title.
ABOUT STAR OF DAVID PROMOTIONS
Star of David Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature the brightest prospects, as well as seasoned pugilists, in and around the New York City area. Viewers have enjoyed watching Star of David fighters in recent years on Spike TV, ESPN2, MSG, and Universal Sports Network. Please visitwww.Salitapromotions.com for more information.
Salita’s stable includes future heavyweight star Jarrell Miller, from Brooklyn; cruiserweight contender Junior Wright, from Chicago; fleet fisted Dimash Niyazov from Staten Island; new signee Bakhtiyar Eyubov, a KO hitter from Kazahkstan, middleweight contender Steven Martinez; Serdar Hudayberdiyev and other rising stars on the Salita roster.

Please log on to www.salitapromotions.com for more information on the Salita fighters and upcoming promotions.

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON CBS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

 
Click HERE For Photos From SKIP Entertainment
 
CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS. (September 3, 2015) – Premier Boxing Champions onCBS fighters were joined by media and fans Thursday at a workout at the PAL Gym in Corpus Christi as they prepare for their Sunday, September 6 showdowns at American Bank Center.
The event is headlined by former world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (27-1-1, 22 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Marco Antonio “El Veneno” Rubio (59-7-1, 51 KOs) and features the rematch between bantamweight world champion Jamie McDonnell (26-2-1, 12 KOs) and exciting brawler Tomoki “El Mexicanito” Kameda (31-1, 19 KOs) with televised coverage beginning at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are priced at $109, $93, $49, $38 and $15, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com, the American Bank Center Box Office or by calling Leija Battah Promotions at (210) 979-3302. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.
Here is what the participants had to say Thursday:
ANTHONY DIRRELL
“Training was great. No complaints. It was a fantastic camp and all the hard work is done.
“I know Rubio is a great fighter. He’s fought the big names and he’s a great veteran. I’m excited to get in the ring with him.
“I was flat last fight. No excuses. Everyone has their days. You can’t pick and choose, it just happens. Anybody that knows me knows that I don’t fight like that. It’s in the past and I’m ready to fight Rubio.
“I did some more sparring earlier in the camp and that got me into a good rhythm. I’m sharp now and our plan has worked great. Now it’s just about bringing it to the ring on fight day and putting on a show.
“I’m looking to go out there and do what I do, which is send people to the doghouse. Whether it’s a statement or not, I just want the victory.”
MARCO ANTONIO RUBIO
“I have put all my effort into this training camp. We’re prepared to fight Dirrell. He’s tall, he’s strong and he’s very difficult in the ring. I have prepared the way I was supposed to. I love the challenge of a tough opponent.
“I was physically tired after my last fight after so many years in boxing. I always knew I would come back, because boxing is my life. I’ve been working for 5 months to get back in shape and I am in great shape.
“It was hard to make 160 for the last two or three fights. I left too much in the sauna to make weight. But now at 168 I feel great. This won’t affect my punching power. It’s something new that I’m looking forward to.
“I’ve had the right sparring partners this camp. I’m in good shape and I definitely have the right strategy for this fight.
“I am coming back at full strength. I see more big fights in the future. I feel great and ready to take on all other fighters.”
JAMIE MCDONNELL
“I’ve been working on some new techniques and I’m sure he will bring some new things to the table that I don’t expect, but I think I will be able to surprise him too.
“I’ve been working on sitting on my punches and creating more power, but also a lot of work on my movement. Defense is important because I got tagged with that right hand that knocked me down last fight.
“I just have to put it all together. On fight night it will come together in the ring. I’m feeling fit, the best I’ve ever felt.
“We’re looking forward to getting in there and making a statement this time. I want to make a real statement on the world stage. No close victory this time, I’m ready for the big boys.”
TOMOKI KAMEDA
“Everything in camp has been going well and we know that we will be successful on Sunday night.
“This time we have an even better plan than last time. I’m ready for my opponent’s style and anything he can bring to the ring.
“I’ve studied McDonnell and I know his weaknesses. We’re planning on taking him out this time. I won’t stop until I have the stoppage.
“I thought I won last time and I plan to prove that I am the better fighter and the best at my weight. It was very close, but this time my power and strategy will be too much for him.
“We didn’t get the win last time, but I’m lucky to have this opportunity just a few months later on national TV.  It’s a big fight for me and I need to win.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.americanbankcenter.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing @AnthonyDirrell, @MAVenenoRubio, @JamieMcDonnell1, @TomokiKameda, @SHOSports,  @WarriorsBoxingProm, @LeijaBattahPR, @AmericanBankCtr and @Swanson_Comm,

AHMED ELBIALI TO FACE PENA ON FOX SPORTS 1

 Photo By Team Elbiali
MIAMI, FL (September 2, 2015) – On Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at the Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California, undefeated light heavyweight power puncher, Ahmed Elbiali (11-0, 10 KOs) is scheduled to fight on the televised portion of the Premier Boxing Champions on Fox Sports 1 card headlined by Austin Trout (29-2, 16 KOs) vs. Joey Hernandez (24-3-1, 14 KOs).  Elbiali will face an Fabiano Pena (12-3-1, 8 KOs) in an 8-round bout.  The PBC telecast will begin at 9PM ET / 6PM PTlive on Fox Sports 1.
Elbiali, who’s known for having heavy hands, is one of the most exciting fighters in the light heavyweight division. With a 90% knockout ratio, Elbiali is being touted as the next great knockout artist.  He’ll look to continue that trend against Pena.
“I’m always looking to end the fight early if I get my opponent hurt,” said Ahmed Elbiali. “A couple of fights ago I went the distance for the first time and I felt good knowing I can fight into the later rounds if need be. I love to let my hands fly and bring exciting fights to the fans. That’s what I try to do in all my fights. On September 8th, I’ll be looking to do the same.”
With Al Haymon guiding the career of Elbiali, sky is the limit.
“Working with Al Haymon has been great for my career.” Elbiali continued. “Fighting on TV once again is bringing great exposure my fighting style, and I’m very appreciative to Haymon for all his hard work.  My goal is to become a world champion and be known as one of the most exciting fighters in my division.”
Tickets priced $28.50 – $78.50 not including fees, are on sale in person at the Palladium box office or online at here.  Doors open at 5PM PT, with the first televised fights starting at 6PM PT.

King’s Promotions to complete 4 shows in 7 days with card at Reading Fightin Phils First Energy Stadium on Thursday, September 24

Undefeated Erik Spring & Nick Valliere in separate bouts
For Immediate Release

Reading, PA (September 2, 2015)– On Thursday night, September 24, King’s Promotions will present a special night of boxing at Reading Fightin Phils First Energy Stadium.

The show will culminate a busy week for King’s Promotions as the company, founded by Marshall Kauffman, will be promoting its’s fourth event in sieven days.

In 6-round Bouts:

Nick Valliere (5-0, 2 KO’s) of Forked River, NJ will take on Maurice Amaro (2-9, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA in a Middleweight bout.

Erik Spring (6-0, 1 KO) of Reading, PA battles James Robinson (3-3-2, 1 KO’s) of York, PA in a Super Welterweight bout.

In 4-round bouts:
Eliezer Mendez (1-1) of Reading, PA will fight Jonathan Acosta (0-1) of Lebanon, PA.

Randy Easton (3-7-1, 3 KO’s) of Sunbury, PA will fight pro debuting Corey Morley of Philadelphia, PA.

Santario Martin (0-1) of Gainesville, FL takes on Fitzgerald Johnson (3-7, 1 KO) of Newark, NJ in a Middleweight bout.

More Bouts will be announced shortly

Tickets cost $50 and $25 and be purchased at 610-375-8469 or www.Fightins.com/boxing

Mad Integrity Fight Sports Presents “Bombs Away 4” October 10 in Lakeland!

Mad Integrity Logo.png
For Immediate Release
Lakeland, FL (September 2, 2015) – Mad Integrity Fight Sports returns to Lakeland with an action packed card Saturday, October 10 at the Florida Orange Event Center.
The card will feature a number of solid local rising stars in exciting match ups. $30 general admission and $60 VIP tickets for this family friendly event are on sale at Madbombsaway4.bpt.me or by visiting Atomic Tattoos in Lakeland and Bulldog Boxing & Fitness in Tampa. All VIP ticket holders 21 years and older will receive free beer from Brew Hub. Doors open at 6:30 pm with the opening bell scheduled for 7:30.
In the main event of the evening, lightweight prospect Ruben “Chino” Ozuna battles 28 fight veteran Bobby Hill of Mississippi. Ozuna, 4-1, is fresh off a thrilling slugfest with Yasmani Calzadilla where he came off the canvas to grind out a decision. The popular Wauchula, FL native is going for his fourth straight victory and will do so in front of a large group of supporters. Best defined as fearless, Hill’s battled many notable fighters including world champion Jose Benavidez, Mason Menard, Antonio Capulin, Bahodir Mamadjonov, Devonte Williams, Rashad Ganaway and Karim Martinez among others.
Undefeated Junior Middleweight Armando “The Gentleman” Alvarez risks his 7-0 record against Jacksonville’s Juan Aguirre in a bout for Sunshine State bragging rights.
Former football star turned welterweight prospect Leanthony “Tyga” Fleming faces iron chinned Randy Heddrick. Fleming, who lives and fights out of Lakeland, played football for Kutztown University and Central Connecticut State before injuries derailed his career on the gridiron.
In four round undercard bouts, Rafael “Junito” Rivera of Tampa faces Orlando’s Cleveland McClean and Quincy, FL’s Leonardo Kenon squares off against Georgia native Greg Faust. Paul “Pay Per View” Parker, “King” Kenmon Evans, Ricky Cowboy” Tomlinson and Tori “Ruthless” Ramirez will all appear against opponents to be announced.
All bouts are subject to change.
We’re excited for another show in Lakeland,” said Joey Orduna of Mad Integrity Fight Sports. “We received a great response from our last show in May. Fighters and fans were both asking about our next card almost immediately. I’m expecting a number of barburners on this card since we’ve got a lot of locals looking to prove themselves. Lakeland is also a great location since it’s between Tampa and Orlando. Tickets start at $30 so make sure to bring the whole family!”
Other bouts will be announced shortly and updates are also available by going to https://www.facebook.com/MadIntegrityFightSports.

Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN’s Santa Cruz vs. Mares Delivers Largest Boxing Audience on ESPN Since February 1998


Highest-Rated and Most-Watched Boxing Telecast Ever on ESPN Deportes
ESPN Classic to Air Instant Classic Tonight
 
The third edition of ESPN’s Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN presented by Corona Extra (PBC on ESPN) series-headlined by Leo Santa Cruz’s majority decision win over Abner Mares-on Saturday, Aug. 29, delivered the largest boxing audience on ESPN since February 1998 (02/22/98 Mark Johnson vs. Arthur Johnson).
The telecast was seen by an average of 1,217,000 viewers (P2+)-up 30 percent from the average of the previous two PBC telecasts on ESPN. The telecast peaked from 12:00-12:15am with 1,641,000 viewers (P2+) according to Nielsen.
ESPN’s Spanish-language telecast of the event on ESPN Deportes averaged a 1.3 Hispanic HH US Rtg and 355,000 Hispanic viewers-making it the highest-rated and most-watched boxing telecast to ever air on ESPN Deportes. The telecast peaked from 11:15-11:30 p.m. with 453,000 viewers.

ESPN Classic will reair the fight tonight at 7 p.m. ET as an Instant Classic. In addition, ESPN Deportes will re-air the entire card on Saturday, September 5, at 7 p.m.

PHILADELPHIA BOXING LEGEND JOE FRAZIER STATUE TO BE UNVEILED AT XFINITY LIVE! ON SEPTEMBER 12

TWEET IT: Philadelphia Boxing Legend Joe Frazier statue to be unveiled at @XFINITYlive on

Sept 12 during free open-to-the public ceremony #JoeFrazierDay

 
Philadelphia, PA (September 1, 2015) – XFINITY Live! Philadelphia is set to unveil a new 12-foot bronze statue commemorating Joe Frazier, one of the most iconic Philadelphia athletes in history, during a free, open-to-the-public ceremony at XFINITY Live! on Saturday, September 12 at 1 p.m.  XFINITY Live! and Joe Hand Promotions were the lead contributors for this memorial.

Statue artist Stephen Layne recreated Frazier in mid-punch, depicting the moment after Frazier landed the punch that knocked down Muhammad Ali in the 15th round, on March 8, 1971. Frazier was the first fighter to defeat Ali.

“I found my inspiration in a photo of Frazier flooring Ali with his powerful left hook,” Layne said. “The moment captured in the sculpture reflects the work ethic of Frazier and the city he called home.”

Frazier won the 1964 Olympic gold medal in Tokyo and later finished with a professional record of 32-4-1, with 27 knockouts. Two of the losses were epic rematches with Ali, including the “Thrilla in Manila” in 1975. Frazier also participated in the first sporting event ever at the Spectrum, on October 17, 1967, winning with a knockout over Tony Doyle.

The City of Philadelphia commissioned Layne as the sculptor of the Joe Frazier Memorial Statue.  He began with a 12-foot tall clay model, and upon approval, constructed a silicone mold. He then began the highly skilled bronze foundry work, finishing the over 1,200-pound bronze monument in 14-months. The process was proudly produced, created and constructed in the United States by Stratton Sculpture Studios of Philadelphia.

The new Frazier statue joins five other iconic Philadelphia sports moments, including Philadelphia Flyers’ Gary Dornhoefer’s overtime playoff goal against the Minnesota North Stars in 1973; longtime Flyers’ good luck charm Kate Smith singing her iconic version of God Bless America; 76ers legend Julius Erving taking a signature shot, Flyers’ greats Bobby Clarke and Bernie Parent hosting the Stanley Cup commemorating of the team’s 1974 and 1975 championships, and Flyers all-time winningest coach Fred Shero.

XFINITY Live! Philadelphia
XFINITY Live! Philadelphia is a dining and entertainment district centered in the heart of the South Philadelphia Sports Complex. The one-of-a-kind venue features over a dozen restaurant and entertainment choices, including:  Broad Street Bullies Pub, PBR Bar & Grill (Professional Bull Riders), Philly MarketPlace, Victory Beer Hall and the first-ever NBC Sports Arena. XFINITY Live! is a joint partnership between Philadelphia-based Comcast Spectacor and Baltimore-based The Cordish Companies.

MIGUEL COTTO AND CANELO ALVAREZ CLOSE OUT EPIC FOUR-CITY INTERNATIONAL PRESS TOUR

 

COTTO VS. CANELO WILL TAKE PLACE SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 AT MANDALAY BAY EVENTS CENTER IN LAS VEGAS
PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW®

 

Click HERE for Photos
Photo Credit: Tom Hogan Photos/Roc Nation Sports/Golden Boy Promotions

 

Click HERE for Videos

Video Credit: RingTV Live

 

BAYAMÓN, PUERTO RICO (Sept. 1, 2015) – Closing out a five-day, four-city international press tour which had already made stops in Los Angeles, Mexico City and New York City, WBC,Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs) and former Two-Time Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) hosted a press conference on Friday, Aug. 28 in front of a hometown audience in Cotto’s native Puerto Rico. Hundreds of media members and thousands of screaming fans filled Coliseo Rubén Rodríguez to see Cotto and Canelo and their teams despite the area being hit by Tropical Storm Erika the night before.

 

The press conference audience was thrilled as the fighters made their entrance to an impressive pyrotechnic display. The excitement in the crowd continued as both fighters faced off and spoke about their upcoming 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, which takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. In addition, Jose “Chepo” Reynoso, manager and trainer for Canelo Alvarez, serenaded the crowed with an a capella rendition of the favorite Puerto Rican tune “Que Bonito Puerto Rico,” in a show of respect to the fans in the audience.

 

The press conference stop in Bayamón, Puerto Rico capped a busy week for Teams Cotto and Canelo.  By the end of the week, Cotto and Canelo visited four cities in two countries, spanning four time zones, traveling 9,500 miles and encountering thousands of screaming fans in five days.  Wherever they went, fans and the media were a buzz about the anticipated showdown between Cotto and Canelo, with many making early predictions that the Nov. 21 middleweight championship will be crowned ‘Fight of the Year.’

 

Both fighters are now heading off to their respective training camps in Los Angeles at Wild Card Gym for Miguel Cotto and San Diego, Calif. for Canelo Alvarez to prepare for their epic showdown on Nov. 21.

 

Below are photo highlights from the four-city international Cotto vs. Canelo press tour. For the complete Cotto vs. Canelo press tour image gallery, click HERE.

 

 

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA ON AUG. 24:

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ABOVE: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (second from left) and former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (right) pose on August 24, 2015 in Los Angeles after the press conference to kick off their four-city international press tour.

 

“The world is talking about this fight. The rich history between Mexico and Puerto Rico makes this truly exciting,” Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya on Aug. 24 in Los Angeles.

 

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO ON AUG. 25:

  Macintosh HD:Users:Kristen:Desktop:Mexico City_01.jpeg

ABOVE: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (left) and former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (right) pose on August 25, 2015 in Mexico City at a press conference to announce their world title fight on November 21, 2015 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada which will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.

 

“I am very grateful that I am always welcomed here in Mexico and shown great respect. The support of Mexicans is unmatched. It is an honor to fight Miguel Cotto,” saidformer Two-Time Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez on Aug. 25 in Mexico City.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK ON AUG. 26:

 Macintosh HD:Users:Kristen:Desktop:CottoCaneloNYPC_Hoganphotos2.jpg

ABOVE: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (left) and former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (right) face off at the start of their New York City press conference to promote their upcoming HBO Pay Per View fight on Nov. 21 in Las Vegas.

 

“This is a match-up of epic proportions, can’t-miss action styles and passionate fans bases, as is evident by the crowd here today,” said Roc Nation President and Chief of Branding and Strategy Michael Yormark on Aug. 26 in New York City.

  

BAYAMÓN, PUERTO RICO ON AUG. 28:

  CottoCaneloPRPC_Hoganphotos

ABOVE: WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (center left) and former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (center right) pose on August 28, 2015 in Bayamón, Puerto Rico at a press conference to announce their November 21, 2015 world championship fight at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.

 

“I’m going to get this victory for all Puerto Ricans around the world,” said WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto on Aug. 28 in Bayamón, Puerto Rico.

 

 

With seven world titles between them, impressive resumes and high levels of popularity in their home countries, Cotto vs. Canelo is shaping up to be the biggest fight in boxing this year and the biggest fight in the history of the famed Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry. 

 

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The Cotto vs. Canelo press tour was sponsored by JetSmarter. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

 

Click HERE to access the Cotto vs. Canelo electronic press kit using password “CottovsCanelo”.

 

For more information, visit www.rocnation.com, www.goldenboypromotions.com,www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.canelopromotions.com.mx www.hbo.com/boxing andwww.mandalaybay.com; follow on Twitter at @RocNation, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @RealMiguelCotto, @Canelo, @HBOBoxing, and @MandalayBay; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation, www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/RealMiguelACotto, www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxingand www.facebook.com/MandalayBay; and follow on Instagram @rocnation, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @realmiguelacotto, @Canelo, @HBOboxing and @MandalayBay. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

ROMAN MARTINEZ AND JONATHAN OQUENDO PUERTO RICO MEDIA DAY QUOTES & PHOTOS

 

Description: 9-12 High Stakes LH

 

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Credit: Angel Vazquez/PR Best Boxing Promotions

 

DORADO, PR (Sept. 1, 2015) – WBO Junior Lightweight Champion Roman “Rocky” Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) and WBO/IBF featherweight world-ranked Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (25-4, 16 KOs) worked out for the press in Puerto Rico on  Monday, Aug, 31 in advance of their SHOWTIME PPV® fights against former world champions Orlando “Siri” Salido (42-13-2, 29 KOs) and Jhonny Gonzalez (58-9, 49 KOs), respectively. The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas highlighted by HIGH STAKES: Floyd Mayweather vs. Andre Berto.

 

Martinez and Oquendo worked before the media at the Dorado Municipal Gym in Dorado, Puerto Rico. Both fighters completed a full training session with their respective trainers Raul Torres and Dennis Pantojas.

 

This is what the fighters had to say during Monday’s workout:

 

Román “Rocky” Martínez

“I’m preparing for a big fight on September 12. Everyone saw that the first fight against Salido was a true ‘War.’ This time around, I’m planning to give my fans the same type of fight. I predict a non-stop action slugfest.

 

“My team and I are working and have been working really hard in training camp. I believe that we are doing everything that needs to be done. I’m in the best shape of my career and I’m planning to win once again, either by knockout or decision, but I’ll win.

 

“We have worked more on side-to-side and in-and-out movement. If I see him hurt early I’m going to finish him.”

 

Raul Torres, Martinez’s Trainer

“Rocky is a 100 percent prepared for [Orlando] Salido. I have no doubt that we will emerge victorious once again.

 

“[Orlando] Salido is a fighter that likes to go forward. He stands in front of you and he goes at it. He’s tough, but we are tougher. We are ready.”

 

Jonathan Oquendo

“This is very important fight for me.  This is my opportunity to put myself in the world title landscape. I’m not going to let this opportunity slip away from me.

 

“Jhonny Gonzalez is a veteran of 60 fights, so you can’t take him lightly. Preparation is key.

 

“This will be the first fight at 130 pounds for me and I can say that the training camp has been very good, better than expected.

 

“I’m feeling strong. I think this is a good weight for me, I’m comfortable because I don’t have to lose much weight and can train better.”

 

Dennis Pantojas, Oquendo’s trainer

“We have had a very good training camp. Jonathan [Oquendo] has not had any problems and he’s right on weight that we want.

 

“I see Jonathan [Oquendo] more focused and stronger than ever. We are not only hitting the gym, we are also swimming a lot and that has helped him lots. “

 

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Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC., are priced at $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300 and $150 and are on sale now. Tickets are limited to eight (8) per household for all ticket prices except the $150 ticket category, which is limited to four (4) per household. To charge by phone or with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase atwww.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

 

“HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto,” a 12-round welterweight world championship bout for Mayweather’s WBC and WBA 147-pound titles, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC.  The event will take place Saturday, September 12 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and will be televised by SHOWTIME PPV.  The undercard features aWBO Junior Lightweight World Championship fight, which is a rematch between Roman Martinez and Orlando Salido, which is promoted in association with PR Best Boxing.  Also featured on the PPV telecast will be a WBC Super Middleweight title bout between Badou Jack and George Groves, which is promoted in association with Team Sauerland. The opening PPV bout pits former world champion Jhonny Gonzalez against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round junior lightweight bout.