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CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. CHRISTINA HAMMER NEW YORK PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Middleweight Champions Shields & Hammer Battle for Undisputed Women’s Middleweight World ChampionshipSaturday, April 13 Live on SHOWTIME® from Boardwalk Hall
 in Atlantic City

SHOWTIME Sports® Announces Two-Part ALL ACCESS: SHIELDS vs. HAMMER with Installments on Social Media Platforms March 29 and April 5

Tickets For Live Event on Sale This Friday, March 1 at 
11 a.m. ET!

Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos from Marilyn Paulino/Salita Promotions

NEW YORK (February 26, 2019) – Two undefeated middleweight champions went face-to-face Tuesday as Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer met in New York at a press conference ahead of their battle for the undisputed women’s middleweight championship Saturday, April 13 live on SHOWTIME from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.
 
The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT and will feature a long-awaited unification in what is arguably the most significant event in women’s boxing history. In addition to world titles from all four sanctioning bodies, this fight will be for the Ring Magazine Women’s Middleweight Championship, the first time a Ring divisional title has been at stake in a women’s boxing match.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are priced at $150, $100, $55 and $35 and are on sale Friday, March 1 at 11 a.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster and at boardwalkhall.com. Pre-sale tickets are available now at the link HERE by using the code BOXING.
 
Also on Tuesday, SHOWTIME Sports announced that it will chronicle the buildup to Shields vs. Hammer with a two-part digital installment of the Sports Emmy® Award winning programing ALL ACCESS. ALL ACCESS: SHIELDS vs. HAMMER will premiere on March 29 with the second installment on April 5 on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and take viewers into the training camps of both champions. Cameras will be embedded with Shields at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., and with Hammer in the town of Seefeld in the Austrian Alps as the undefeated rivals prepare for the most significant fight of their careers.
 
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday from Dream Hotel Downtown in Manhattan:


 
Download the Shields vs. Hammer Press Kit at bit.ly/ShieldsvsHammerPressKit
 
CLARESSA SHIELDS
 
“This has been long overdue. I’m just glad that Hammer is here and the fight is set. She’s been at my fights before but I can’t wait to get inside the ring and show her I’m the real champion.
 
“I’ve traveled to many different countries and dethroned champions around the world. At the end of the day, I’m coming to fight and I recognize that she’s a great champion. To be a champion for all those years shows that she’s a good fighter. But I also look at resumes, and her resume is not as good as mine.
 
“I’m not someone coming to lay down. I’m not afraid of her. You don’t win belts by talking. You have to fight. I said two years ago I want to fight Christina Hammer in my seventh fight. It would have been if it weren’t for her medical issue. But now we’re here and ready for April 13.
 
“April 13 you’re going to see someone fold. I promise you, it will not be me. Make sure you all tune-in.
 
“I think for women’s boxing this is a true super fight that we’ve never gotten before. We’ve never had a fight like this in women’s boxing. It’s great to make this happen and us being from two parts of the world makes this fight even better.
 
“She’s not the tallest girl I’ve ever fought. I’m stronger than her and I know it. I got up from a knockdown and won. She can’t do that. I don’t believe she knows how to fight on the inside, but she better learn.
 
“I want to make her quit. I don’t want her to just know I’m a good fighter, I want her to know I’m great. I wish we could go 12 rounds, but I’ll be prepared for all 10 rounds.”
 
CHRISTINA HAMMER
 
“I’m very glad to be here and make this fight happen. I’m looking forward to April 13. I want to show the world who I am.
 
“This is a big risk to come from Germany to the U.S., but I believe the best should fight the best and I did what I had to so that this could happen. This fight can be a game changer for our sport.
 
“I will give everything to step out of the ring as a winner. I know Claressa Shields is also a great champion. She’s undefeated like me and that’s why people want to see the fight and that’s why we made it happen.
 
“I want to thank everyone who made this fight a reality and brought us to this stage. It’s huge for me to be here in New York and I am looking to win on April 13.
 
“This fight is the real deal. This is going to be a game changer for women’s boxing. I think we’re going to inspire a lot of female athletes who want to live their dream. It’s motivation for everyone.
 
“I’ve had the title for a long time. I always push myself. This is the fight I wanted to show everyone who is the best. I will be the undisputed champion.
 
“Shields is beatable. Hanna Gabriels caught her in the first round of their fight and I am taller and stronger than Gabriels. I want to finish the job if I get the chance.
 
“Anything can happen in boxing. I’m prepared to go the distance. Knockout is the goal but most importantly, I want to win.”
 
DMITRIY SALITA, President of Salita Promotions
 
“I’m honored to bring to the fans the first super fight in women’s boxing history. A lot of questions surround this fight. Will this be a classic like Leonard vs. Hearns, where the gold medalist handles the experienced pro, or like Mosley vs. De La Hoya, where the boxing pro took the gold medalist down. This fight is going to be for all of the belts and this recognizes the true value and impact of this fight.
 
“Christina Hammer has been a world champion for over nine years and has won titles in two divisions. She’s charismatic and a superstar in Germany and Europe. As a champion that she is, she’s traveling to the other side of the world to prove that she’s the best.
 
“Claressa made the Olympic team when she was 17 years old, winning our only boxing medal at the 2012 Olympic games. She’s the only boxer in U.S. history to win two Olympic gold medals in boxing. She’s had a very impressive pro career, beating world champions and top contenders in all her fights. She’s on her journey to be the best and this fight is a big step toward cementing herself as the GWOAT (greatest woman of all time).
 
“This is going to be a historic night of boxing. If you watch this fight live and in-person, you will want to hold onto your ticket as a memento.”
 
MARK TAFFET, Claressa Shields’ Manager
 
“The media support for this fight is outstanding. This is a very special time. This fight is one of the most significant fights I’ve worked on in my career, because of the place it will hold in history.
 
“Two years ago I met Claressa Shields and we discussed her turning pro. We made a list of dreams and I promised Claressa I would do everything in my power to fulfill every one of them. We’ve had a wonderful journey together. One of those dreams was to make this undisputed championship fight happen. We’re going to keep making dreams happen.”
 
TOM LOEFFLER, Christina Hammer’s Advisor
 
“Without the fighters wanting this fight, events like this wouldn’t happen. Christina Hammer wants this challenge and she wants to prove she’s the best middleweight champion out there.
 
“These two fighters can be an example for a lot of male boxers. These are two undefeated fighters in their prime putting it all on the line to show who is the best. You don’t see that very often these days.
 
“This is going to be a fun promotion. This is a fight that’s a real 50-50 fight. Claressa will be coming forward with her style and tenacity, going up against Christina’s experience. It’s for all the marbles”
 
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.
 
“Let’s get one thing straight here. This isn’t just an important women’s fight. This isn’t just a high-quality women’s boxing match. This is a high-quality boxing match. This is an important fight. So certainly we have two very skilled women, we’re not going to ignore that fact. But this is one of the best fights that can be made in this sport. Two pound-for-pound boxers, the best fighting the best. If you are not interested in this fight, then candidly, you are not a boxing fan. This is as good as this sport gets.
 
“We at SHOWTIME have a long history showcasing the best in women’s boxing and MMA. Names like Laila Ali, Christy Martin, Ronda Rousey, Miesha Tate, Gina Carano, Cris Cyborg.; those are all fighters who made their debuts and that became stars on SHOWTIME. This has been a long-time commitment.
 
“The first nationally televised women’s MMA event was on SHOWTIME. The first domestic televised MMA women’s main event was on SHOWTIME. The first women’s boxing match that was nationally televised was on SHOWTIME. The first women’s main event boxing bout was also on SHOWTIME, and that obviously was Claressa just a couple of years ago.
 
“So here on this stage you’ve got two of the most elite athletes in the sport. Not two of the elite women’s fighters in the sport, but two of the elite athletes within this sport. Two-time gold medalist, the only American to do that consecutively, and a two-belt world champion versus a longtime middleweight champion who has dominated this division for nearly a decade.
 
“This is one of the best fights that can be made in the entire sport. We have two of the elite athletes in boxing and they are deserving of having everything that comes with a marquee event on SHOWTIME, including our Emmy Award-winning All Access series.”
 
JIM WYNKOOP, General Manager, Boardwalk Hall
 
“We are so excited to have this great fight coming to Boardwalk Hall. It will be our first championship fight in several years and we can’t wait.
 
“There is a huge history of boxing at Boardwalk hall in Atlantic City and we look forward to writing another chapter on April 13.”
 
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boxing

WBO Belted Yomar Álamo in Puerto Rico

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Aguas Buenas – In an emotional activity held at the Aguas Buenas Urban High School, the World Boxing Organization (WBO), together with its president, Francisco “Paco” Valcárcel, Esq., delivered the WBO North America (NABO) Jr. Welterweight title to boxer Yomar “The Magic” Álamo which he won last Friday in Florida, after defeating Mexican Manuel Méndez by unanimous decision in an event promoted by All Star Boxing.

“When Yomar fought the previously, we were not pleased, Yomar’s people made the decision for him to train with Iván Calderón so that he learned some techniques that Iván had already used very well. Iván is the architect of this and I recognize his work as a coach who charge of polishing this diamond. As a fighter, Iván made 18 world title defenses in the 105 and 108 pounds of the WBO and will be a safe bet for the Hall of Fame”, Varcárcel said.

An excited Álamo said: “I am very happy with this tribute. This fight was for my people of Aguas Buenas and Puerto Rico, who so need moments of happiness. Everything can be done in life, just set some goals and fight for them, no matter how strong the winds are. If you are at the hands of Jesus Christ, our savior, nothing will be missing and I know that many young people will achieve it”.

Álamo’s trainer Iván Calderón said: “I want to thank Ángel Cotto, who was the one who physically prepared Yomar Álamo for the fight and without that work, you can’t do what you did. Thanks to Efraín Román and Armando for giving me the confidence to join the team. The discipline that Yomar had to represent Aguas Buenas with a lot of pride, knowing that his people are behind him, motivated him a lot”.

“From the Cagüitas neighborhood, we have a young man who, since he was a child, trained in the municipal gym of Aguas Buenas with Efraín Román and his father Armando Álamo. His dedication is remarkable throughout the town. Always running at 4:00 in the morning and that fills us with pride. His title is well deserved and thanks to the WBO for this great activity”, said the Aguas Buenas mayor Javier García Pérez, who was joined by the representative Jorge Navarro, on behalf of the House of Representatives of Puerto Rico.

For the WBO, other from Valcárcel, Treasurer Adolfo Flores, Vice-Chairman of the Championship Committee Enrique Mendoza, Esq, Ratings Committee Chairman Edgardo López Sasso, Esq, and adviser Gustavo Olivieri, Esq, were also in attendance. ��7D���z5üH

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JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER, GREG VENDETTI RETURNS MARCH 29TH IN HOMECOMING MURPHYS BOXING EVENT

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JR. MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER, GREG VENDETTI TO FACE
MANNY WOODS IN HEADLINING HOMETOWN AREA SHOW


RYAN KIELCZWESKI RETURNS IN CO-MAIN EVENT


UNDEFEATED WELTERWEIGHT, MIKE OHAN JR. TO APPEAR


FRIDAY, MARCH 29TH AT MEMORIAL HALL
IN MELROSE, MASSACHUSETTS


TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT WWW.MURPHYSBOXING.COM



Boston, Massachusetts (February 26, 2019):


Murphys Boxing is proud to announce the return of junior middleweight contender and fan favorite, Greg Vendetti (20-3-1, 12 KOs) who will take on Manny Woods (16-8-1, 6 KOs) on Friday, March 29th at Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts in a 10 round bout.


Vendetti, who last summer pulled off a massive upset against former world title challenger,Yoshihiro Kamegai on ESPN2, found himself in the Top 10 rankings and was offered the chance to fight France’s Michel Soro for the WBA Interim Super Welterweight Championship in Paris this past December.


‘The Villain’, who was on an incredible 16 fight winning streak, came up short in his first shot at a title but is looking to get back in the winning column in front of his hometown fans at Memorial Hall in a tough match up against upset specialist, Manny Woods.


“Despite the loss, 2018 was an amazing year for me. I fought 5 times and I had the biggest win of my career as a B-side against Kamegai which landed me in the Top 10. We were offered the Soro fight for the Interim world title and even though I felt like my body needed some time off, you can’t say no to that kind of opportunity. You never know when or if it will come again.”, explains the Stoneham, Massachusetts native.


“It was a rough camp. I trained too hard. My body was falling apart. As for the fight, it was an ugly knockout but that’s part of the game. I’m proud of how I handled it. No shame. No embarrassment. I wasn’t phased by it. Of course I wasn’t happy about it but my first thought was what do we do to get better? The fight showed me I have to get sharper. Continue to be aggressive but be smarter and more tactical about it. It was only one battle in a long war.”


As for taking on a seasoned veteran like Woods when he could have easily asked for a tune up, Vendetti shows the attitude that has made him such a fan favorite.


“I like to fight and wanted to be in a real fight in my return. Knocking out a ham and egger in the first round isn’t enjoyable for me or the fans. It’s a waste of a camp and a weight cut not to mention you don’t learn anything. Woods is a durable, legit guy who is coming to win. That’s what I need and want.”


And after going 50/50 against against world class opposition last year, would Vendetti be willing to take on a top 10 fighter again in 2019?


“100%. I want to make a statement against Woods then keep improving with each fight. I don’t want to take any steps back with the opposition. Everything forward. As long as I’m healthy, I will fight anyone in the division.”


In the co-main event, fellow Murphys Boxing stablemate and Massachusetts fan favorite, Ryan Kielczweski (29-4, 11 KOs) will take on an opponent to be named in an 8 round contest in the lightweight division.


‘The Polish Prince’ is coming off his show stealing back and forth battle with Tommy Coyle at TD Garden in Boston this past October on the undercard of the Demetrius Andrade WBO world middleweight title fight.


Despite dropping the decision, Kielczweski, who hails from Quincy, Massachusetts, showed world class talent and massive heart in an all out war that had the arena crowd on it’s feet.


Also featured on the card will be the most recent addition to Murphys Boxing’s growing roster, Mike Ohan Jr. (8-0, 5 KOs).


The son of a popular New England area professional fighter in the 1990s, Ohan Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps going 82-10 in the amateurs and picking up multiple New England Golden Gloves titles.


Fighting a remarkable 8 times in 2 years and upping the competition level in each outing, including a unanimous decision over veteran, Daniel Sostre in his last fight, Ohan has been on the fast track as a professional. The impressive win lead to the young fighter, who hails from Holbrook, Massachusetts, being offered a contract with Murphys Boxing.


“I am beyond excited to be a part of the Murphys Boxing family.”, says Ohan, Jr. who will fight an opponent to be named in a 6 round bout on the card.


“Being with such an active promotional company will give me the opportunity to grow as a fighter and showcase my skills as I move towards my dream of one day being a world champion.”


In addition to the three headlining local favorites, the card will feature a 4 round super lightweight women’s bout between Jillian DiAuto (1-1, 1 KO) and Sarah Click (0-1-1), as well as the east coast debut of Venezuelan super lightweight sensation, Luis Arcon (5-0, 5 KOs) who will take on an opponent to be named in a 6 round bout.


3 more undercard bouts will be announced shortly to kick off the night at the beloved throwback venue which has become a mainstay of Murphys Boxing.


“Memorial Hall is my favorite fight venue.”, says Ken Casey, founder of Murphys Boxing.


“It gets incredibly loud in there when Greg fights and with the bowl seating, it feels like a mini coliseum.”


Vendetti, who will be making his 7th appearance at the always sold out venue, couldn’t agree more with his promoter.


“It’s intense. I really do feel like a gladiator fighting in a coliseum when I’m at Memorial Hall and for a gladiator there’s only two options… victory or death.”


Vendetti vs. Woods takes place on Saturday, March 29h at Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts (590 Main Street). Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are on sale now at: www.murphysboxing.com


2019 MURPHYS BOXING RESULTS


1/26 – William Foster III (9-0, 6 KOs) UD over Angel Suarez
*Foster defended his NABF Jr. Super Featherweight Title


2/9 – Carlos Gongora (15-0, 12 KOs) KO 5 over Jesus Aviles
*Gongora won the WBC South American Middleweight Title


UPCOMING MURPHYS BOXING EVENTS


3/16/19 – Boston, MA. St. Patrick’s Day Clash
3/29/19 – Melrose, MA. Vendetti vs. Woods


ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING


Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Mark DeLuca, Charles Foster, Greg Vendetti, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan and prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, Abraham Nova, William Foster III, Mike Ohan Jr. and more!


For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Bryan De Gracia to Face Eduardo Ramirez in 12-Round Featherweight Showdown on Saturday, March 2 Live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn – Edner Cherry Forced to Withdraw from Fight Against Ricardo Núñez Due to Medical Issue

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Former World Champion Erislandy Lara Battles WBA Super Welterweight Titlist Brian Castaño in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Main Event

BROOKLYN (February 25, 2019) – Hard-hitting Bryan De Gracia will face once-beaten contender Eduardo Ramirez in a 12-round featherweight match live on SHOWTIME Saturday, March 2 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
Bryan DeGracia, Eduardo Ramirez, Edner Cherry, Ricardo Nunez,

De Gracia vs. Ramirez replaces the previously scheduled Ricardo Núñez vs. Edner Cherry match after Cherry was forced to withdraw due to a medical issue. The winner of De Garcia vs. Ramirez will capture the WBA Gold Featherweight Championship and be in line to face WBA (Regular) Featherweight World Champion Can Xu.
 
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by former world champion Erislandy Lara challenging undefeated WBA Super Welterweight Champion Brian Castaño and also features Cuban heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz battling Christian Hammer.
 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com,barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
 
The Panamanian De Gracia (24-1-1, 20 KOs) will be fighting for the first time in the United States on March 2. The 25-year-old has knocked out seven of his last eight opponents and scored four straight stoppage victories since his one loss to Jorge Sanchez in 2017. De Gracia, who is ranked No. 2 by the WBA at 126 pounds, picked up two victories in 2018, including most recently stopping previously unbeaten Edinso Torres Jr. in August.
 
Ramirez (21-1-3, 8 KOs) suffered the only loss of his career when he dropped a unanimous decision to then-featherweight champion Lee Selby in December 2017. The 26-year-old southpaw from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico had fought unbeaten Leduan Barthelemy to a draw prior to the Selby fight and most recently bounced back from that loss with a TKO victory over Carlos Jacobo in November.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @LouDiBella and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
boxing

RICKY “EL CASTIGO” MEDINA REMAINS UNDEFEATED WITH DOMINATE PERFORMANCE

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Photos By Robert Elizondo

FLORESVILLE, TX (February 24, 2019) – Last night at the sold out Floresville Event Center, in Floresville, TX, Prince Ranch Boxing’s rising star and 5-Time National Champion, Ricky “El Castigo” Medina (3-0, 2 KO), was dominate in defeating Jose Casiano (1-1-1), going the distance (4-rounds) for the first time in his career.  The event titled “Small Town Big Showdown” was promoted by Medina’s promoter, TMB & PRB Entertainment.

In the first round the 18-year old high school senior Medina, who resides in San Antonio, Texas, dictated the pace using his jab to set up his power shots. Casiano did his best to apply pressure throughout the fight but was unsuccessful as Medina used his superior boxing skills to counter his attack. Medina finished off the final round boxing on his toes as he cruised to victory.
 
“Casiano came to fight and was my toughest opponent so far in my career,” said Medina. “He kept coming forward, so I had to use my boxing ability to set up my shots. I know I’m not going to knock everyone out so going the distance for the first time was good for my confidence. I want to thank my team for all their hard work, and I can’t wait to get back in the ring.”
 
“Medina was spectacular and showed he can box his way to victory,” said Greg Hannley, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “He had a great crowd that came up from San Antonio and all of them got their money’s worth. Medina is a rising star in this sport, and we will have him back in the ring very soon.”
 
“Ricky Medina has all the tools to be something special in boxing,” said Rick Morones, of TBM & PRB Entertainment who promotes Medina. “His amateur pedigree showed in this fight as he boxed beautifully for the full four rounds. He dominated this fight and we are all happy with his performance.”
 
“I was really impressed with how Medina handled Casiano’s pressure,” stated Alex Draghici, of TMB & PRB Entertainment. “He countered his attach with a nice jab, throwing his power shots off angles. His future is bright, and we have big plans for him.”

boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

ANTHONY DIRRELL DEFEATS AVNI YILDIRIM BY TECHNICAL SPLIT DECISION TO WIN WBC SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE IN MAIN EVENT OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON FS1 & FOX DEPORTES FROM THE ARMORY IN MINNEAPOLIS, MN

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HOMETOWN FAVORITE JAMAL JAMES SCORES TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT WIN OVER JANER GONZALEZ

Click HERE for Photos from Andrew Dobin/Minneapolis Armory
(Photos to be Uploaded Shortly)

MINNEAPOLIS (February 24, 2019) – Anthony Dirrell (33-1-1, 24 KOs) defeatedAvni Yildirim (21-2, 12 KOs)by technical split decision (96-94 X 2 for Dirrell, 98-92 for Yildirim) for the vacant WBC Super Middleweight World Championship in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes from the Armory in Minneapolis. Referee Mark Nelson stopped the contest in the tenth round due to an accidental clash of heads and a cut over Dirrell’s left eye with the decision going to the scorecards.
 
“I was upset with the stoppage because I wanted finish the fight like a champion,” said Dirrell. “It feels great getting my WBC belt back. We want to unify against Caleb Plant or any of the champions. I’m just going to go home, take some time, talk to my camp and then we’ll go from there. If the Benavidez fight comes calling then I’ll fight him.
 
“I thought I was winning this fight by more than what the judges had,” added Dirrell. “I was jabbing him and he was applying some pressure, but that’s just what he does. I won the fight though and that’s all that matters.”
 
Minneapolis-native Jamal James (25-1, 12 KOs) scored a crowd-pleasing technical knockout win over Janer Gonzalez (19-2-1, 15 KOs). Midway through the sixth stanza, James appeared to drop Gonzalez with a straight overhand right, but referee Gary Miezwa declared it a slippage. Near the end of the sixth round, James landed another knockdown and this time it counted and hurt Gonzalez. At the close of round six, Gonzalez went to his corner and never came out with the fight being declared a sixth-round stoppage as Gonzalez was unable to answer the bell for the seventh round.
 
“This is the best crowd I’ve ever fought in front of,” said James. “We packed this place out. Middle of winter, snow all around us and they still came out and showed a lot of support. I can’t even explain the feeling to come out here and stop (Gonzalez). The only question I have is where’s my belt? I’m ranked third in the WBA. Keith Thurman got the belt, Pacquiao got the belt. But in all honesty, whoever gives me that opportunity I’m stepping in there with them.
 
“He gave me a great fight, but at the end of the day I had too much to offer and he couldn’t get back up,” continued James. “I just kept my range and was able to counter on him. And when he was coming in he was coming in real wild and opening himself up for some big shots that I was able to take advantage of. The first time he went down I thought it was a legitimate knockdown, but the ref was a good ref. I definitely caught him with a good combination and a nasty body shot for the second knockdown. After that, I knew that took the rest of the fight out of him and all I had to do was finish the job.”
 
“I was thinking this was a very important fight for my career,” said Gonzalez. “I was so happy for this fight, it just didn’t go my way. I am going to fight again, though. Every fight is a learning experience for me.”
 
The FS1 and FOX Deportes opening bout featured a hard-fought rematch betweenJeison Rosario (18-1-1, 13 KOs) and Marcos Hernandez (13-2-1, 3 KOs). In February of 2018, the two fought to a draw. In the rematch, Rosario was able to secure a technical knockout with referee Celestino Ruiz halting the action 2:45 into the ninth frame. At the time of the stoppage, Hernandez was up on judge Kyle Shiely’s scorecard (77-75) with Rosario ahead on judges John Mariano’s and Tim Taggart’s scorecards (78-74, 77-75).
 
“He let his guard down and he kept making the same mistakes,” said Rosario. “When I saw the opportunity, I dropped him.
 
“The first time we fought I wasn’t ready,” added Rosario. “I was weak. But I learned from the first fight what to do in the second one. That’s how I took him out.”
 
“It was a close fight that could have went either way,” said Hernandez. “He hit me with a good shot. I got up and felt O.K. I was just trying to dodge some shots and he hit me with a left. He was firing and I just should have thrown back.
 
“I think the ref stopped the fight early, but that’s not my job,” continued Hernandez. “I’d definitely welcome a third fight with Rosario, though. I’ve never been afraid to fight anyone, so fighting him a third time wouldn’t be a problem at all.”
 
In the Premier Boxing Champions on FS2 prelims, Bryant Perrella (16-2, 13 KOs) won a unanimous decision (78-74, 79-73 X 2) over Breidis Prescott (31-16, 22 KOs).
 
“I’m very happy with my performance tonight,” said Perrella. “I felt great going the distance. My endurance was fantastic. I would have been much more aggressive and thrown harder shots, but I hurt my hand in the second round and it was hurting the rest of the fight. I just used my jab and ring generalship to control the fight and get the win.”
 
The FS2 co-feature saw Money Powell IV (9-0, 5 KOs) stop Javier Frazier (8-9-1, 4 KOs) by third-round technical knockout (2:03). Powell landed 86 punches in the bout, 36 of which were to Frazier’s body.
 
“This training camp we really worked on a lot of body shots,” said Powell. “I feel like body shots are neglected nowadays and body shots pay the bills, break you down real quick.”
 
In the FS2 swing bout, Austin Dulay (13-1, 10 KOs) scored a very quick first-round knockdown of Yardley Cruz (24-13, 14 KOs) before cruising to a third-round stoppage (:27).
 
“I just listened to my coaches and they told me to be a dog and come forward,” said Dulay. “I thought I had him stopped with that first knockdown after the opening bell, but I didn’t want to rush into anything because he has a ton of experience.
 
“I want a rematch with Chris Colbert right away on the April 13 card here at the Armory,” added Dulay. “I got back in camp after that loss, figured out what was wrong, got a nutritionist and moved up to 135 pounds. I feel better than ever, so I’m definitely ready for that rematch.”
 
In the opening televised bout on FS2, Justin Pauldo (12-1, 6 KOs) scored a first-round knockdown and stoppage (1:17) against Federico Malespina (16-11-2, 2 KOs) who was unable to continue.
 
“I landed a solid straight right hand,” said Pauldo. “I saw him fall back into the ropes and I knew I had him hurt. So, I touched the body and got him out of there quickly.”
 
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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

CHRIS EUBANK JR. SCORES CAREER-DEFINING VICTORY OVER JAMES DEGALE IN SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT GRUDGE MATCH SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM THE O2 IN LONDON

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Undefeated Heavyweights Joe Joyce Knocks Out Bermane Stiverne In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Opener


 
Watch The Encore Presentation Tonight At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®


 
Click HERE
 For Photos; Credit: Ian Walton/SHOWTIME


 
LONDON – February 23, 2019 – Chris Eubank Jr. earned a career-defining victory with a hard-fought unanimous decision over British rival and former two-time world champion James DeGale in a super middleweight grudge match Saturday on SHOWTIME from The O2 in London. 


 
Eubank, the son of British boxing legend and former two-division world champion Chris Eubank Sr., floored DeGale twice en route to the clear decision, which was scored 114-112, 115-112, 117-109.  VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: https://s.sho.com/2E6mWI8


 
Working in his first bout with a full-time trainer, Eubank fought a controlled fight.  The former world title challenger floored DeGale in a rough moment in the second, stunning his rival with a big left hook against the ropes and flooring him moments later with a strong right cross that sent DeGale to the canvas for just the second fight of his career.


 
DeGale, who established his championship career as a slick southpaw, was unable to jab at range and couldn’t handle the constant pressure from Eubank.  The former Olympic Gold Medalist resorted to lunging from the outside and was largely ineffective on the inside, often clinching while in close quarters. 


 
“I knew he was going to come at me like that,” Eubank said.  “He’s a slick southpaw, but my game plan worked. Smart pressure and not getting too ahead of myself.  He’s a hell of a fighter, hell of a competitor but at the end of the day my head and my heart won this fight.”


 
“There was a lot of animosity leading to this fight.  I told him, ‘This is my time,’ and it was.  He’s a veteran of the game, he throws big shots and he manages to stay up.  To get up after those knockdowns is a statement about his tenacity and the type of fighter he is.”


 
The second knockdown came in the 10th as Eubank landed a powerful left hook that buckled DeGale with just 30 seconds left in the round.  Once again, DeGale tried to clinch to avoid the knockdown, but his hand touched the canvas and was ruled just the third knockdown of his career.


 
After the fight, DeGale, who was the first British fighter to earn an Olympic Gold Medal and a world championship, appeared to be leaning toward retirement. 


 
“I definitely I didn’t do enough,” DeGale said.  “He was on it and I didn’t do enough.  You have to do more than enough to counter someone that came forward like Chris. 


 
“I’m going to go back and talk to my team, my family, and decide.  I left my mark in boxing.  I won an Olympic Medal, two world titles and it may be the time to hang it up.”


 
While DeGale contemplates retirement, Eubank has his sights set on another shot at a world title. 


 
“This was the most important fight of my career, and I made a statement.  I’m back where I’m supposed to be, at the top of the food chain. I’m coming for all the belts in the middleweight and super middleweight division.  I’m fighting everyone they put in front of me.


 
“I’m glad to make my American debut here on SHOWTIME. I’m glad to be introduced to the American public this way – making a statement.”


 
In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader, undefeated heavyweight Joe Joyce kept his knockout record intact with a sixth-round TKO of former heavyweight world champion Bermane Stiverne.


 
After an exciting first round, Joyce opened up the action in the second with a monstrous straight right and unloaded from bell to bell against a defenseless Stiverne, who continued to punch back despite eating damaging shots.  After a series of combos in the opening minute of the third, Joyce caught Stiverne with a straight right hand to send him to the canvas for the fifth time in his professional career. Stiverne survived the round while throwing looping shots but failed to return any meaningful punches.


 
Joyce, the 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist, consistently set up a powerful straight right behind an accurate and effective left jab throughout the fight.  With Joyce (8-0, 8 KOs) continuing to tee off against a largely defenseless Stiverne, referee Howard Foster stepped in to halt the contest at 2:26 of the sixth.  Stiverne (25-4-1, 21 KOs) did not protest the stoppage.


 
“Big respect to Stiverne – like a true champion, he’s very tough and was still throwing shots, but I guess I was just a bit too much,” Joyce said.  “It was about being patient.  He’s such a tough guy that he took those shots no problem. 


 
“I was hitting him with everything I had, including the kitchen sink.  I listened to Abel (Sanchez) in the corner, did everything he said and it went well.  My jab was really effective.  I’m a seasoned vet. I picked up my poise and remained calm along the way.


 
“Big things are coming.  My next one will be for the WBA Regular (Title) and I’ll be back in the gym soon. I need to have a couple more fights like this and then I’ll be ready for the big champions.”


 
Highlights of former world champion Lee Selby’s lightweight debut were featured during Saturday’s telecast.  A former champion at featherweight, Selby (27-2, 9 KOs) overcame a second round accidental head butt to win a 12-round unanimous decision (116-112, 116-112, 115-114) over Omar Douglas (19-3, 13 KOs).


 
An encore presentation of Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader will air tonight/Saturday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME, Sunday at 9 a.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.


 
Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer hosted the doubleheader from London with versatile combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein.  Two Hall of Famers rounded out today’s telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr.  The Executive Producer was David Dinkins Jr. with Rick Phillips directing.  Saturday’s telecast was a co-production with ITV. 


 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,
 
subscribe to the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

 

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Former Heavyweight Champion Charles Martin Battles Unbeaten Dallas-Native Gregory Corbin in Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS1 Leading up to the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Mikey Garcia PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View Event

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Saturday, March 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas
Prelims Begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Tickets On Sale Now at SeatGeek.com

ARLINGTON, TX. (February 22, 2019) – Former heavyweight world championCharles Martin will square off against unbeaten Dallas-native Gregory Corbin in a 10-round bout on Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS1 leading up to the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Mikey Garcia PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event Saturday, March 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
 
Prelims begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will lead up to the pay-per-view event at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT that is headlined by unbeaten IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. defending his title against undefeated four-division champion Mikey Garcia in a highly anticipated and historic showdown.
 
Tickets for this showdown, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now, and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.
 
Born in St. Louis but now fighting and training out of Southern California, Martin (25-2-1, 23 KOs) showed heavy hands in racking up 20 knockouts in 23 fights before he captured a heavyweight world title with a victory over Vyacheslav Glazkov in January 2016. The 32-year-old bounced back from a defeat against Anthony Joshua to score two stoppage victories before losing a close decision to unbeaten Adam Kownacki in September.
 
Fighting out of his hometown of Dallas, Corbin (15-0, 9 KOs) will look to remain unbeaten in front of a friendly crowd. The 38-year-old has stopped five of his last six opponents, including his most recent victory over Homero Fonseca in August. He will fight in his home state for the ninth time as a pro on March 16.
 
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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JAMES DEGALE vs. CHRIS EUBANK JR. FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS FOR SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT SHOWDOWN THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHOWTIME® FROM THE O2 IN LONDON

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“It’s retirement time.  Whoever loses this fight is finished.” – DeGale


 
“There’s nothing he can do in that ring that I can’t handle.  I’m going to box his head off.” – Eubank


 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Begins Live At 3:45 p.m. ET/12:45 p.m. PT



Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Ian Walton/SHOWTIME


 

 
LONDON – February 21, 2019 – Former two-time super middleweight champion James DeGale and former world title challenger Chris Eubank Jr. faced off at the heated final press conference on Thursday for their 12-round showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING this Saturday, February 23 live on SHOWTIME (3:45 p.m. ET/12:45 p.m. PT) from The O2 in London.


 
DeGale (25-2-1, 15 KOs) and Eubank (27-2, 21 KOs) will finally settle their long-running score when the two outspoken rivals meet in London. In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature bout, Olympic Silver Medalist and top prospect Joe Joyce (7-0, 7 KOs) will measure against former WBC Champion Bermane Stiverne (25-3-1, 21 KOs) in a 12-round heavyweight clash.


 
Former two-division world champion, Chris Eubank Sr., was in attendance and not shy about stating this is not going to be an easy fight for his son. “This is a 50/50 fight and for the first time I am petrified of what the outcome can be.  I am petrified that Junior may not win this fight,” he said.


 
The event is promoted by Poxon Sports and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Joyce-Stiverne is promoted in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions. The doubleheader will air live in the U.S. exclusively on SHOWTIME and on ITV Box Office in the U.K.


 
Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will host the doubleheader from London with combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein.  Three Hall of Famers will round out the telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial ringside scorer, and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. 


 
Here’s what the fighters and their respective camps had to say during Thursday’s press conference at Intercontinental at The O2: 


 
JAMES DEGALE:

“I vacated my title for fights like this.  Chris Eubank has been calling my name for a long time and finally I get a chance to punch him in his face.


 
“I have no respect for him.  None.  This guy is a diluted idiot.  And on Saturday night I can’t wait to deal with him.  I’m going to come and give it to him properly.  He can’t box.  We’ve all heard this before. 


 
“This is the biggest fight of his career.  It’s retirement time.  Whoever loses this fight is finished.  It’s do or die on Saturday…His retirement fight is here.  It’s his last fight, I promise you that.


 
“I’m proven.  I’ve been there, done that.  I’ve won everything.  He’s done nothing.  And I’m going to retire him.


 
“Eubank is a tough fighter, he’s strong.  He has a lot of good attributes, but I’m too good for him.  To mix it up and go to the very top you need more than strength and toughness.  Every time he’s stepped up, he’s lost. 


 
“The fear of losing is because I know what’s on the line.  This is do or die.  If I can’t beat him, if I can’t beat Chris Eubank Jr., I’m done. 


 
“A lot of people think I’ve seen better days.  A lot of people think I’m on the decline.  I’ve had issues in the past, but I can honestly say I’m fully fit.  I’m in the best shape I’ve been for a long, long time, physical and mentally.  When I feel like I feel no one can beat me.


 
“If I can’t beat Chris that means I’m shot, that means I’m over the hill.”


 
CHRIS EUBANK JR.:

“This guy is a bum.  He talks a good game.  He’s going to have a good go, but at the end of the day I’m going to be too much for him. 


 
“We are both at a stage where we can’t lose.  We are both fighting for our careers.  He knows he can’t handle me.  He’s asking himself, ‘Can I survive?’  And the answer is absolutely not.


 
“There’s nothing he can do in that ring that I can’t handle.  I’m going to box his head off. 


 
“I’ve got a full time trainer now.  For the first time in my career, I have a trainer day in and day out focusing on strategy to prepare me for what James is – a slick southpaw.  That’s why I’m so confident.  If he wants to run, we have the gameplan.  If he wants to stand and swing, we have the gameplan.  We have a plan for everything. 


 
“What matters is that James’ career is over in a few days.  I sent him a message after he lost to [George] Groves saying he needs to keep up because we are going to fight one day.  And now that we’re finally here I look into his eyes and I don’t see a confident guy. 


 
“It’s my time.  I’m expecting the best he’s ever been and that’s still not going to be enough. 


 
“I’m a world-level fighter.  Anyone in the boxing game knows that.  This is my opportunity to prove that once and for all to set the record straight and prove I’m the real deal.  I know this is a defining fight in my career.  It is do or die and I’m ready for that. 


 
“James knows what’s coming.  At the end of the day, his last performances haven’t been up to par, but i don’t think he respected his [past] opponents.  He respects me, and I respect him and that’s why this is a real fight.


 
“I’ve been in the game for a long time but this is just the beginning of a long journey for me.  This is my biggest fight.  I have to win.  If I win, I’m back on the world stage.  Beating James DeGale sets me up for a world title which is the whole reason I started in this game.”


 

 
JIM MCDONNELL:

“There are levels to boxing.  Chris was a good prospect coming through but he’s not on the same level as James.  He’ll find out what it takes to be a world champion.  James DeGale is levels above Chris Jr.


 
“Chris may have all the drive he needs but he doesn’t have the skills to beat James DeGale. 


 
“I know James is not losing.  James DeGale is probably the best British fighter I’ve seen in my country.”


 

 
CHRIS EUBANK SR.:

“I’ve seen the pinnacle of James and it’s intoxicating. With Chris, not everything I’ve said has been applied.  It may have been heard, but not applied.  What I said works. I wouldn’t have 19 championship wins if it didn’t. 


 
“I’m not convinced [Chris will win] because James DeGale has pedigree.  Being an [Olympic] Gold Medalist and former world champion is real.  I respect the man’s abilities.  Junior hasn’t. 


 
“My son looks at the physical aspect of boxing and, from a physical point of view, I don’t think there is anyone who can stand with him.  But boxing isn’t just physical – it’s also spiritual, and that’s where Junior lacks.  I don’t know whether he has that. 


 
“This is a 50/50 fight and for the first time I am petrified of what the outcome can be.  I am petrified that Junior may not win this fight. 


 
“This is the wisdom of someone who has been here.  You never underestimate your opponent based on past performances.  Anyone who thinks this guy is on a slide because of past performances is making a mistake. 


 
“From a physical aspect, Junior has the upper hand.  From a spiritual aspect and pedigree aspect, James has the upper hand, and that’s why this is a 50/50 fight.


 
“I do know Chris has learned and let’s see what is produced.  It can be a brilliant fight.”


 

 
PAULIE MALIGNAGGI:

“I like our chances.  I know the guy that I have been in camp with.  The things I’ve seen, I like. They are much more positive this time around. 


 
“You can’t underestimate a guy like Eubank.  He always comes to win.  But, regardless of the gameplan, there is a certain mentality and my guy has it.  He’s a Gold Medalist and he knows what mentality to bring on Saturday.


 
“James has won two major world titles, an Olympic Gold Medal.  Chris has had some good wins but when he went to that elite level, he lost.  Chris is a good fighter but he’s not beaten this level of opposition.”


 
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EROS CORREA RETURNS TO THE RING THIS SATURDAY IN MEXICO

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SAN JOSE, CA (February 21, 2019) – Undefeated super bantamweight prospect and rising star, Eros Correa (5-0, 5 KOs), returns to the ring this Saturday in Tijuana, Mexico. The 4-round bout is being promoted by GM3 Boxing Promotions and Gonzalez Boxing Promotions, and will take place at Cheer’s Bar, in Tijuana.  Correa will face Jose Pech, a veteran of over 30 fights.

 
“I’m looking forward to this fight,” said Eros Correa, who’s guided by Cali Boxing Management. “My last fight in Tijuana was my toughest opponent to date so I’m not looking past Pech. Fighting in Mexico has been great for my career.  With each fight I feel I’m getting better and better. I’m gaining a lot of experience and my confidence is at an all time high. I’m also starting to build a fan base out there. I want to thank my team for all their hard work.  This Saturday I’ll be going for another knockout.”
 
Since signing with Cali Boxing Management last summer, Correa has been fighting on a consistent basis, going undefeated in four fights, all by knockout.  This will be Correa’s second fight of 2019.  In his last bout he scored a fourth round TKO.
 
“We are happy with Eros’ progress and we feel he’s developing into a great fighter, one that we believe will make some serious noise in the super bantamweight division,” said Andrew Bocanegra, of Cali Boxing Management. “After this bout we have plans to have him fight in the Bay Area, where all his family and friends will be in attendance.  He’s an incredibly talented fighter to say the least.”
 
“Eros’ amateur pedigree being an alternate on the 2012 Olympic team is evident and its transitioning in the pros,” said Jessie Sanchez, of Cali Boxing Management. “Fighting in Mexico has been tremendous for his development.”