Tag Archives: California

boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Unbeaten Bantamweight Damien Vazquez Takes on Former Champion Juan Carlos Payano & Rising Welterweight Prospect & 2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis Battles Once-Beaten Sammy Figueroa Saturday, March 9 in Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS1

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Beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT From
Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.

WBC Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter Makes First
Title Defense Against Mandatory Challenger Yordenis Ugas in
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Main Event

CARSON, Calif. (February 19, 2019) – Undefeated bantamweight prospect Damien Vazquez battles former world champion Juan Carlos Payano in an eight or 10-round attraction while unbeaten welterweight prospect and 2016 Lithuanian OlympianEimantas Stanionis will face once-beaten Sammy Figueroa in an eight-round fight on Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS1 Saturday, March 9 live from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California.
 
Prelims begin at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT and lead into a PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes show that’s headlined by WBC Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter making his first title defense in primetime against mandatory challengerYordenis Ugas.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
Born in Colorado and training in Las Vegas, Vazquez (14-0, 7 KOs) is the younger brother of former three-time champion Israel Vazquez. The 21-year-old has fought professionally since 2013 and picked up two wins in 2018. He most recently won his first 10-round fight with a unanimous decision over then unbeaten Luis Gollindano last April.
 
Payano (20-2, 9 KOs) became a world champion in 2014 when he defeated Anselmo Moreno by technical decision before defending and then losing the title in a pair of exciting fights against Rau’shee Warren. Originally from the Dominican Republic, but training in Miami, Payano put together three-straight victories before losing a title challenge to unbeaten Naoya Inoue last October.
 
After representing his native Lithuania at the 2016 Olympics, Stanionis (7-0, 5 KOs) relocated to Southern California where he has trained while compiling his unbeaten record. The 24-year-old took a step up in competition last time out and dominated tough veteran Levan Ghvamichava to earn an eight-round unanimous decision last August on FS1.
 
The 28-year-old Figueroa (11-1, 4 KOs) returns to action for the first time since defeating Ismay Eynullayev in March 2017. The Puerto Rican fighter had picked up wins over previously unbeaten foes Javontae Starks and Fernando Paliza before suffering his only defeat to Miguel Cruz in May 2016.
 
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boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

FRANCISCO ‘CHIA’ SANTANA TO MAKE PBC DEBUT

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WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDER ADDED TO THE TELEVISED UNDERCARD OF PORTER VS. UGAS – LIVE ON FOX – MARCH 9TH



Ventura, California: February 18, 2019


Francisco ‘Chia’ Santana (25-6-1, 12 KOs) will make his PBC debut on the televised undercard of the WBC Welterweight World Championship Fight between Shawn Porter and Yordenis Ugas live on Fox on March 9th at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.


Santana will face Arizona’s Abel Ramos (23-3-2, 18 KOs) in what promises to be an action packed battle between two aggressive fighters both coming off victories, with the winner in line to face an opponent from PBC’s deep welterweight stable later this year.


Santana, who is coming off one of the biggest upsets of 2018 when he defeated Olympic Gold Medalist and world title challenger, Felix Diaz, is currently ranked #14 in the WBC.


“It’s crazy how much can change in a year.” explains, Santana.


“Last year at this time I was coming off back to back controversial losses that I felt I had won. My promoter had dropped me. I couldn’t find a fight. I had been out of the ring for a year. It looked like my career was over. I actually landed the Diaz fight because a friend entered me in an online contest to be an alternate fighter for a WBC tournament. The fans voted me in and when a fighter was injured, I was bumped up into the main tournament. I knew no one was giving me a chance to beat Diaz who was the favorite to win the whole tournament but when I’m overlooked that’s when I’m the most dangerous. The win landed me in the WBC’s Top 15 rankings allowing me to now be able to fight for their world title. I believe I am only one or two fights away from that opportunity and no one is going to stand in my way.”


Having worked with several promoters throughout his 14 year professional career, Santana is happy to be featured on a major Premier Boxing Champions event.


“The amount of world class welterweights that PBC has is unreal, including 4 of the 5 current world champions. It’s literally a who’s who of the division. I’m beyond excited to be able to make my PBC debut on Fox in primetime on the undercard of the WBC welterweight title fight. I have nothing but respect for a fellow hard working fighter like Ramos and I expect a war but I intend to make a statement on March 9th and come out victorious.”


Santana, a Santa Barbara native who lives and trains in Ventura, California atKnuckleHeadz Boxing Gym with trainer, Joseph “Hoss” Janik, is a favorite amongst hardcore boxing fans for his relentless in ring style and his fight anyone, anywhere, anytime attitude that has seen him give multiple future world champions all they could handle. In addition, he’s widely considered one of the friendliest fighters in the entire sport.


“I follow the golden rule. Treat others how you want to be treated. I’m a boxer but I’m a also massive boxing fan. Nothing is better than going to the fights and talking boxing with other fans. I’m no different than them. I wake up and run. I go to work all day with an hour commute back and forth. I hit the gym at night. I spend what little time I have left with my family. Then I go to sleep exhausted. I haven’t caught many breaks in this sport but I still haven’t given up on my dream of being a world champion. In life or in boxing, my motto is train, fight, win. I think that’s something everyone can relate to.”
FRANCISCO ‘CHIA’ SANTANA CAREER HIGHLIGHTS


Former WBA International Champion
Has wins over 4 former world champions and challengers
Has a draw against world title challenger, Julian Williams
Has gone the distance with world champions like Jermell Charlo
Has taken the “O” from 3 different prospects including Eddie Gomez
His 1st round KO of undefeated Kendal Mena was ESPN’s #2 Play of the Day
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Veteran Contender Andrzej Fonfara Withdraws from Fight Against Edwin Rodriguez Slated for Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, March 9 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California

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Hard-Hitting Abel Ramos and Battle-Tested Francisco Santana Step In for All-Action Welterweight Showdown In Co-Feature

WBC Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter Makes First

Title Defense Against Mandatory Challenger Yordenis Ugas In

Main Event – Coverage Begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

CARSON, CALIF. (February 14, 2019) – Veteran contender and two-time title challenger Andrzej Fonfara has withdrawn from his match against Edwin Rodriguez that was scheduled to be part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes on Saturday, March 9 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California.

Stepping in as the replacement co-feature is a 10-round, all-action welterweight showdown between hard-hitting Abel Ramos and battle-tested Francisco “Chia” Santana. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by WBC Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter making his first title defense in primetime against mandatory challenger Yordenis Ugas.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com.

The 31-year-old Fonfara announced that he is retiring from boxing, prompting him to withdraw from the fight against Rodriguez on Wednesday.

“There is no more enthusiasm and above all no more of the motivation and adrenaline that gave me the desire to go into the ring and compete,” Fonfara said. “I am healthy. Everything is okay. But I no longer have the heart for boxing.”

Ramos (23-3-2, 18 KOs) has put together four technical knockout victories since losing a hard-fought majority decision to welterweight contender Jamal James in front of James’ hometown crowd in Minneapolis on April 13, 2018. The 27-year-old from Casa Grande, Arizona proved against James that he’s a formidable opponent for anyone in the 147-pound division.

Santana (25-6-1, 12 KOs) needs an impressive victory over Ramos to remain a force in the welterweight division. The 31-year-old Santana of Santa Barbara, California is coming off a majority decision over the always-tough Felix Diaz and owns victories over then unbeaten fighters Eddie Gomez and Kendal Mena.

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports &www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

GERVONTA DAVIS DEFENDS WBA SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE WITH THRILLING FIRST-ROUND TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT OF HUGO RUIZ SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM DIGNITY HEALTH SPORTS PARK IN CARSON, CALIF.

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Mario Barrios Remains Undefeated With Fourth-Round TKO Of Richard Zamora
 
Javier Fortuna Scores Unanimous Decision Against Sharif Bogere In Telecast Opener
 
 Watch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 P.M. ET/PT
On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

Click HERE for Photos; Credit: Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME


Click HERE for Photos; Credit: Sean Michael Ham/Mayweather Promotions
 
CARSON, Calif., (February 9, 2019) – Gervonta Davis defended his WBA Super Featherweight World Championship with a thrilling first-round TKO of former world champion Hugo Ruiz before a sellout crowd of 8,048 at Dignity Health Sports Park Saturday non SHOWTIME.
Knockdown video highlight: https://s.sho.com/2URYn8t
 
Baltimore’s Davis (21-0, 20 KOs) recorded his eighth career first-round knockout as referee Jack Reiss called off the fight with one second remaining in the first round following a devastating sweeping right hook by Davis connected cleanly and sent Ruiz (39-5, 32 KOs) down to his knees.
 
Davis, who entered the ring to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”, wasted little time showing why he is one of boxing rising super stars with his impressive fourth win in a world title fight. The 24-year-old Davis is the youngest U.S.-born world titlist in boxing and was headlining for the first time.
 
With his promoter Floyd Mayweather looking on, Davis made quick work of his late-replacement opponent. “I knew it was coming,” he said. “I wanted to go more rounds, but I knew if I got him out of there early I could fight again sooner. When I touched the jab I saw his arm was in front of his face so if I threw a hook or uppercut it was right in line.”
 
Davis, who has now stopped his last 12 opponents, connected on 50 percent of his power punches, just under the 51 percent power accuracy he logged in his last four fights.
 
The late substitute 32-year-old Ruiz was fighting for the second time in three weeks as he replaced the injured Abner Mares. Ruiz was used to being on the other side of first-round knockouts having recorded 18 of his own during his career.
 
“As soon as he started landing punches, I could feel them,” Ruiz said. “I have a lot of first round knock outs, today was my turn to lose in the first round. It happens in boxing.”
 
Next up for Davis could be the winner of the March 2 Ricardo Nunez-Edner Cherry WBA Eliminator on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center. “We could do that,” Davis said. “At the end of the day I’m a fighter. I’m a fighter and I have a great team. One of the best in the sport. I believe in my team and whatever they line up, I’m ready.
 
Davis told SHOWTIME reporter Jim Gray he’s ready for a sweet homecoming for his next fight. “Yes, sir. We’re coming to Baltimore. We’re going home, baby.”
 
In the co-feature, Mario Barrios (23-0, 14 KOs) knocked out his seventh consecutive opponent as the 23-year-old from San Antonio stopped Mexico’s Richard Zamora (15-3, 10 KOs). The stoppage came at 2:16 in round four as referee Ray Corona waved off the fight after a barrage of Barrios punches landed cleanly and dazed the game Zamora.
 
With noted trained Virgil Hunter in his corner, the accurate Barrios landed a staggering 59 percent of his power punches, including 37 of 58 (64 percent) in the fourth and final round.
 
“He wasn’t an easy target at all,” said Barrios, who sparred with Amir Khan and Devin Haney in training camp and is the WBA’s No. 1 ranked fighter at 140 pounds. We just used everything we worked on in camp to find my range.”
 
He added: “It was an amazing fight. I tip my hat to Zamora – he’s a hell of a warrior. I wish him nothing but the best for the rest of his career. Like he said at the press conference, he wanted a war and I brought it to him. Total respect to him.”
 
Zamora was making his United States debut. “I came to fight,” he said. “I didn’t come to lay down. I thought I still could have fought more. I don’t want to criticize the referee. He did what he had to do.”
 
Barrios said he’s ready for the next big step-up in his career. “That’s up to my managerial team,” he said. “Whenever they feel I’m ready I’ll fight for a world title. Any one of them. I am knocking down the door for a world title right now.”
 
In the telecast opener, Javier Fortuna (34-2-1, 23 KOs) won a unanimous decision against Sharif Bogere (32-2, 20 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight bout. All three judges scored the fight 96-93 in favor of Fortuna.
 
The southpaw Fortuna, of Braintree, Mass, by way of the Dominican Republic, knocked down Bogere in the sixth round, the same round Bogere suffered a nasty cut above his right eye after an accidental head clash.
 
The knockdown occurred after a powerful left uppercut by Fortuna dazed Bogere, who appeared to be pushed down and touched his glove on the canvas. Referee Edward Collantes scored it a knockdown, giving Fortuna the 10-8 round.
 
“(The knock down) was correct,” said Fortuna, who said he would love a future shot against Davis. “I saw his eyes were a little glossy and his legs buckled a bit. When I saw that he was cut, the game plan changed again and we had to work again to attack the cut.”
 
Originally from Uganda but now living in Las Vegas, Bogere gave himself a seven out of 10 grade. “I think I won the fight,” he said. “Even the knockdown was bull. He kept coming at me with the head. He kept trying to head butt me. The challenge was that there was blood in my eye. The first couple of rounds I was boxing him easily.”
 
At the midway point of the fight, Fortuna began pulling away winning rounds six, seven and eight on SHOWTIME Steve Farhood’s unofficial scorecard as Bogere continued to fade, although coming back to win round nine on Farhood’s card.
 
In the power punch category, Fortuna connected on 89 of 310 punches for 29 percent while Bogere landed 59 of 317 for just 19 percent. Bogere was riding a 13-fight winning streak over the past six years coming into the fight.
 
“What I want right now is a contract so I can fight Gervonta Davis wherever. Lomachenko, any of them,” said Fortuna, who had a No Decision against Adrian Granados last June on SHOWTIME after falling out of the ring in the fourth round suffering a head and neck injury.
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN featured two live undercard fights on social media platforms leading into the televised tripleheader. Former world title challenger Erickson Lubin (20-1, 15 KOs) knocked down Ishe Smith (29-11, 12 KOs) a total of four times before the fight was stopped at the end of round three in a scheduled 10-round super welterweight bout. Undefeated super lightweight Juan Heraldez (16-0, 10 KOs) stopped Eddie Ramirez (17-3, 11 KOs) in round seven of a scheduled 10-round fight.
 
Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer hosted SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. Versatile combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo called the action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi. Three Hall of Famers rounded 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. Alejandro Luna and former world champion Raul Marquez hosted the telecast in Spanish, available via Secondary Audio Programming (SAP). The Executive Producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was David Dinkins Jr., with Bob Dunphy directing.
 
Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader will replay on Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and www.premierboxingchampions.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
 
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

GERVONTA DAVIS VS. HUGO RUIZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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Super Featherweight Champion Davis Joined by Promoter Floyd Mayweather Ahead of Title Defense Against Former Champion Ruiz This Saturday Live on SHOWTIME®From Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. and Presented By Premier Boxing Champions

Click HERE for Photos from Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham
/Mayweather Promotions

LOS ANGELES (February 7, 2019) – WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Gervonta Davis and former world champion Hugo Ruiz went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they go toe-to-toe this Saturday night in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, Calif. and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
Also facing off on Thursday were fighters who will enter the ring live on SHOWTIME in televised undercard attractions. Undefeated super lightweight Mario Barrios will be facing Mexico’s Richard Zamora, while former world champion Javier Fortuna will step in against lightweight contender Sharif Bogere as part of live SHOWTIME action kicking off at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing and tickets are sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
Davis was joined on-stage by his promoter, legendary boxer and Mayweather Promotions President Floyd Mayweather. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday at the Westin Los Angeles Airport before Saturday night’s event:
 
GERVONTA DAVIS
 
“I’m so excited to come back strong in 2019. This is the year that could put me over the top and put me at the highest level.
 
“The opponent change didn’t really affect me. In the amateurs we fought four or five times a week so we always had different opponents. I had been sparring someone taller than me in training camp anyway. I think a fighter should be ready and able to adapt to anything that is in front of him in the ring. I’m ready and I hope Ruiz is too.
 
“Training camp has been great. I’m ready for Saturday night. We planned on fighting Abner Mares, but he had an injury and we hope to still get him down the line if everything is okay with his health.
 
“Hugo Ruiz is a great opponent. He’s going to come to fight on Saturday night. He’s been telling the media he’s going to knock me out, so I hope we get an action packed fight for the fans. I’m glad Ruiz is coming for the knockout. We owe it to the fans and I’m praying that he comes ready to give them a great show.
 
“I feel like I’m the fighter that can be the next big star. I’m working towards it. I’m just a kid soaking it all in right now. Saturday night, I hope everyone is ready, because it’s going to be action.
 
“Ruiz’s record speaks for itself. I’ve watched him and he has some pop. He’s accurate and I’m ready for it. I don’t think I’ll have any ring rust. I’ve worked with a lot of great fighters in the gym. I’m just excited to get back in the ring.
 
“I want to give my fans all over the world a great show. Everyone tuning in is going to see a great performance. Hopefully Hugo will live up to his word, because I’m going to live up to mine.”
 
HUGO RUIZ
 
“I’m very happy to have this opportunity. I’m going to leave everything in the ring. I have a lot of faith in my boxing skills. I trust and believe that there is going to be a new world champion on Saturday night.
 
“I’m in rhythm and in shape. I’ve been very active leading into and since my last fight. Davis is a tremendous champion, but he doesn’t intimidate me. I’ll be ready for him come Saturday night.
 
“This is a great opportunity to fight a southpaw, as I had originally been training for a lefty before my opponent changed in my last fight. I also fought a southpaw in November. I’ve been training with a lot of lefties for a while. I’m more than ready for this opportunity.
 
“Davis is a strong champion and I know this is a big opportunity for me to fight someone of his caliber. I’m ready mentally and physically for the greatest opportunity that has been given to me.
 
“At 130-pounds I feel more power than ever and I will demonstrate that on Saturday night. This is a big challenge for me. This is the opportunity that I’ve been waiting for throughout my 12-year career. I don’t plan on wasting it.”
 
MARIO BARRIOS
 
“This is a huge opportunity and I’m very excited for it. I’m looking forward to going out there and putting on a great show for the boxing fans.
 
“I’m ready and I’m prepared to take full advantage of this chance to make a statement on Saturday night. I want any one of the champions in this division, but I’m not looking past Zamora. I just know that the work that I put in will pay off.
 
“I have big things on the horizon and Zamora is in my way. I’m focused and ready to make this a great night. If he wants a war, I’ll give him a war.”
 
RICHARD ZAMORA
 
“I’m very happy and thankful to be in this fight. This is the opportunity I’ve been looking for. I’m ready to compete and I’m not going to let this opportunity pass me by.
 
“This is definitely a big step for me in my U.S. debut. If I can get a win over Mario Barrios, then I would be able to reach a lot of dreams that I have.
 
“I come well prepared and I’m expecting a war. I’m going to be ready to go and battle until the end. You’ll see that I’m going to leave it all in the ring.”
 
JAVIER FORTUNA
 
“I’m going to give the best that I have in the ring. I’m going against a good boxer with a good record, but it doesn’t matter what obstacles are in front of me. I’m going to come through with a big win on Saturday night.
 
“We have a new team and a new trainer that is going to give the fans the best Javier Fortuna possible on Saturday.
 
“A victory against Sharif Bogere is very important for me and a stepping stone to where I want to get. It’s going to be a difficult fight, but I’m ready to make this a very tough night for him.”
 
SHARIF BOGERE
 
“We are going to make this a great fight on Saturday. Fortuna is a good fighter and tough guy. I expect him to bring a lot of fireworks. I’m prepared for it and I have the game plan to win.
 
“Every day is a tough test in life. This is going to be just another fight. I’m prepared and I have a great team behind me. I’m coming on Saturday night for what belongs to me.
 
“Fortuna has a big name and is a step up for me. This win will put me up there toward the top and I’ll be prepared for whatever challenge comes after that.”
 
FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions
 
“It’s great to be here with so many young talented fighters. I could remember 23 years ago when I was in that same position. When you’re in this position you have to take advantage of it. Opportunities like this come once in a lifetime. You must go out there and give it your all.
 
“I want to see these fighters become great and become stars. The records that I’ve set were made to be broken.
 
“I remember when Gervonta Davis first came to my gym. He worked hard and believed in himself. Sometimes we did two-a-days. If we didn’t think the job was done right, we’d come back and correct it. We continue to strive every day to be the best we possibly can be. Gervonta works extremely hard, but he can’t take anything for granted in this fight.
 
“I think Hugo Ruiz is more dangerous opponent than Abner Mares. Abner is a tremendous fighter, but Ruiz is very tough and he has good knockout power. This is a great matchup and the kind that people want to see. It’s all about putting on great shows and Saturday will be another blockbuster.”
 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
 
“We have a great event this Saturday night with great fights from top to bottom of this card. This is going to be a great night of boxing.
 
“Gervonta Davis has reached goals beyond just the boxing ring. I know the impact that Gervonta has on the youth all around the world. When it comes to excitement, explosiveness and knockout power, this is something new that the fans are getting a chance to witness.
 
“At the young age of 24, fans have come to know Gervonta for his punching power. But he’s also a very skilled boxer. This is one of the things that he’ll be able to showcase moving forward in a number of big fights he’s going to have.
 
“We know he has a tough challenge in front of him. Anytime you have a last minute replacement who’s an excellent fighter, it’s a big challenge. Ruiz is an aggressive fighter and we expect nothing but a great fight.
 
“Gervonta Davis has the full arsenal. In my opinion, he’s the most exciting fighter and the biggest puncher in the entire sport. It takes more than knockout power and I think you’ll see an array of his skillset.”
 
SAMPSON LEWKOWICZ, President of Sampson Boxing
 
“It really is an honor for me to be involved in this great show. These are going to be three great fights. Hugo Ruiz had been training for a southpaw before an opponent switch led to him fighting a right hander last fight. After a few more weeks leading into this fight, Ruiz is 100 percent ready for this challenge.
 
“Trust me, this is going to be a rough fight. I believe that Davis will have his hands full with Hugo Ruiz. Ruiz comes from a family of fighters and he is a true Mexican warrior who will leave it all in the ring on Saturday.”
 
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ABOUT DAVIS VS. RUIZ
Gervonta Davis vs. Hugo Ruiz pits the WBA Super Featherweight World ChampionDavis against the former world champion Ruiz in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on Saturday, February 9 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features undefeated super lightweight Mario Barrios taking on Mexico’s Richard Zamora and former world champion Javier Fortuna battling lightweight contender Sharif Bogere.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.premierboxingchampions.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ERICKSON LUBIN TRAINING CAMP QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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Super Welterweight Contender Takes on Former World Champion Ishe Smith This Saturday in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN Action From Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. and Presented By Premier Boxing Champions

Digital Presentation Streams Live on SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page Beginning 
at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Click HERE for Photos from Team Lubin


LAS VEGAS (February 5, 2019) – Super welterweight contender Erickson Lubin will enter the ring under the guidance of coach Kevin Cunningham for the first time when he steps into the ring this Saturday against former world champion Ishe Smith as part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
The digital presentation will stream on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, and will also feature a showdown between super lightweights Juan Heraldez and Eddie Ramirez, all leading up to that evening’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event. The three-fight SHOWTIME telecast begins live at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT headlined by super featherweight world champion Gervonta Davis defending his title against former world champion Hugo Ruiz.
 
Lubin will fight for the second time since losing his first world title challenge to Jermell Charlo in 2017, and for the first time with his new coach. The Orlando-native began training camp in West Palm Beach, but has been training in Las Vegas for the last month since the team moved west to finish the training camp for Adrien Broner’s fight against Manny Pacquiao.
 
Here is what Lubin had to say about Saturday’s fight and more:
 
On his matchup against Ishe Smith:
 
“Ishe Smith has been in the ring with the best of them and he’s never been stopped. He knows how to fight and I’m expecting him to be at this best. I will have to dictate the pace right from the opening bell. My goal is to be the first person to take him out, but if it goes the distance, I’m okay with that as well. I’m going to win this fight and win it impressively.”
 
On training with new coach Kevin Cunningham:
 
“Kevin is a no-nonsense type of guy. He’s going to tell you the truth if you like it or not. If I’m doing something wrong in his eyes, he’s going to speak on it right away. He’ll do the same if I’m doing something right, so I like his style of training and I’m learning more each day we are together. This will be our first fight together and I’m excited to get back in the ring. We have a nice game plan in place that we will execute on fight night.”
 
On training in Las Vegas for the first time in his career:
 
“Training in Las Vegas is no joke, because we are training in higher elevation than what I’m used to in Florida. Getting away from the distractions at home has been relaxing. I’ve been getting great sparring and my timing is right on point. Las Vegas is definitely the place to be for high level sparring and training.”
 
On fighting in Southern California for the second time in his career:
 
“I really like fighting on the west coast. The fans are great, and the weather is beautiful. I know we’ll be fighting outdoors so I’m looking forward to that. Everyone knows this venue has hosted some really good fights. I’m looking to steal the show on Saturday night.”
 
#          #          #
ABOUT DAVIS VS. RUIZ
Gervonta Davis vs. Hugo Ruiz pits the WBA Super Featherweight World ChampionDavis against the former world champion Ruiz in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on Saturday, February 9 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features undefeated super lightweight Mario Barrios taking on Mexico’s Richard Zamora and former world champion Javier Fortuna battling lightweight contender Sharif Bogere.
 
Tickets for the event, promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.premierboxingchampions.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

MARIO BARRIOS TRAINING CAMP QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Unbeaten Super Lightweight Barrios Takes on Mexico’s
Richard Zamora Live on SHOWTIME® This Saturday From
Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. & Presented By
Premier Boxing Champions

Click HERE for Photos from Brett Ostrowski/Team Barrios

OAKLAND, Calif. (February 4, 2019) – Undefeated super lightweight contender Mario Barrios will look to continue his push toward a world title shot when he faces Mexico’s Richard Zamora (19-2, 12 KOs) live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, February 9 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, Calif, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
The three-fight SHOWTIME telecast begins live at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and is headlined by super featherweight world champion Gervonta Davis defending his title against former world champion Hugo Ruiz.
 
The 23-year-old from San Antonio can increase his knockout streak to seven on February 9, all since he moved up to 140-pounds. Here is what Barrios (22-0, 14 KOs) had to say about his upcoming matchup and more from training camp in Oakland, Calif.:
 
On his matchup with Richard Zamora:
 
“Zamora is my toughest opponent to date in my opinion. He’s won his last five fights, so I know he’s coming into this fight with a lot of confidence. He has power in both hands and he’s very tough. But I’m going into this fight with a lot of confidence myself. This is going to be a war and one I’m looking forward to. I have no doubt in my mind that I’m going to come out on top.”
 
On his recent training camp:
 
“Camp started back home with my dad Martin and he really got me ready before I left for California. I’ve spent the last six weeks training in the Bay Area with Virgil Hunter. I’ve also been training with Victor Conte and Remi Korchemny at the SNAC facility. Right now, my body is in the best shape of my life. I got good sparring with Devin Haney and a few other top-level fighters. All the hard work is almost done. We have one week left and then its fight week. Virgil and I are working great together and I’m ready to go.”
 
On fighting in the co-main event on SHOWTIME:
 
“I’m very excited to be fighting on SHOWTIME on a big card once again, this time in the co-main event. I’m going to bring a lot of excitement to those watching on TV. My style is fan-friendly and everyone tuning in is going to see the next superstar in boxing. I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity fighting on the big stage.”
 
On when he’ll be fighting for a world title:
 
“I’m currently ranked No. 1 in the WBA, so I know a world title shot is very close. Right now, my main focus is defeating Zamora. I must get past this fight and then it’s time to face all the top guys in the super lightweight division. I’m looking to be in a world title fight sometime this year.”
 
#          #          #
 
ABOUT DAVIS VS. RUIZ
Gervonta Davis vs. Hugo Ruiz pits the WBA Super Featherweight World ChampionDavis against the former world champion Ruiz in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on Saturday, February 9 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features undefeated super lightweight Mario Barrios taking on Mexico’s Richard Zamora and former world champion Javier Fortuna battling lightweight contender Sharif Bogere.
 
The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing and tickets are sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.premierboxingchampions.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Unbeaten Super Featherweight Xavier Martinez Clashes With Deivi Bassa & Lightweight Contender Ladarius Miller Battles Daulius Prescott In Non-Televised Action This Saturday, At Dignity Health Sports Park In Carson, Calif.

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WBA Super Featherweight Champion Gervonta Davis Battles Former Champion Hugo Ruiz In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Main Event Presented By Premier Boxing Champions
 
CARSON, Calif. (February 4, 2019) – Unbeaten Super Featherweight Xavier Martinez will clash with Colombia’s Deivi Bassa and lightweight contender Ladarius Miller is set to battle Daulius Prescott in non-televised undercard action on Saturday, February 9 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California.
 
The main event of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader features unbeaten WBA Super Featherweight Champion Gervonta Davis defending his title against former world champion Hugo Ruiz in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
The unbeaten Martinez (12-0, 8 KOs) has stopped his last four opponents, including a technical knockout victory over Oscar Bravo in his last fight in September. The 21-year-old from Sacramento, Calif. will be looking to do the same when he steps in for a 10-round bout against Bassa (20-7, 12 KOs), a 37-year-old southpaw from Monteira, Colombia. Bassa is looking to rebound from a unanimous decision loss to Jonathan Oquendo in his last fight in December.


 
Miller (18-1, 5 KOs) has used his boxing ability to make a steady climb up the lightweight ladder with impressive victories over Jamel Herring and Dennis Galarza. The 25-year-old, a southpaw who was born in Memphis and now lives in Las Vegas, is coming off a majority decision victory over Ricardo Garcia in his last fight in December. He is catching Barranquilla, Colombia’s Prescott (32-10, 24 KOs) as he is trying to rebound from a decision loss to Matt Conway in December.
 
In other non-televised undercard action undefeated featherweight Angelo Leo (15-0, 8 KOs) meets Alberto Torres (11-1-3, 4 KOs) in an eight-round bout, unbeaten Jose Balderas (5-0) competes in a six-round super bantamweight fight against Jerrod Miner(1-3-2, 1 KO), flyweight Ava Knight (17-2-4, 5 KOs) takes on Luna del Mar Torroba(12-9-2, 2 KOs) in an eight-round match, Mexican lightweight Francisco Ochoa (13-0, 8 KOs) steps in against Luis May (21-11-1, 8 KOs) for a six-round bout and Maurice Lee(9-1-1, 5 KOs) faces Lennard Davis (4-1-4, 3 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight bout.
 
The fights continue with undefeated welterweight Emmanuel Medina (15-0, 9 KOs) against Carlos Velasquez (26-33-2, 16 KOs) in an eight-round bout, Lorenzo Simpson(1-0, 1 KO) meeting Jonell Christmas (0-1) in a four-round super middleweight bout and Genisis Libranza (17-1, 10 KOs) taking on Gilberto Mendoza (11-6-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round super flyweight match.
 
Rounding out the night of action is undefeated Israel Luna taking on Angel Carvajal in a four-round super bantamweight match.
 
#          #          #
ABOUT DAVIS VS. RUIZ
Gervonta Davis vs. Hugo Ruiz pits the WBA Super Featherweight World ChampionDavis against the former world champion Ruiz in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on Saturday, February 9 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features undefeated super lightweight Mario Barrios taking on Mexico’s Richard Zamora and former world champion Javier Fortuna battling lightweight contender Sharif Bogere.
 
The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing and tickets are sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.premierboxingchampions.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Three-Division, Four-Time World Champion Abner Mares Sustains Injury; Forced To Withdraw From Match Against WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Gervonta Davis – Davis Now Set To Take on Former World Champion Hugo Ruiz in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Main Event Saturday, February 9

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LOS ANGELES (January 30, 2019) -Three-division, four-time champion Abner Mares has been forced to pull out of the WBA Super Featherweight title match against two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta Davis on Saturday, February 9 after suffering an injury while training.

Davis will now defend against former world champion Hugo Ruiz in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, with coverage beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Ruiz is an all-action brawler who previously picked up a world title at super bantamweight in 2015 and most recently defeated Alberto Guevara in January on the Pacquiao vs. Broner PPV event in a featherweight fight. Ruiz, who owns 18 first round knockouts, floored Guevara in the opening minute and cruised to a near-shutout decision victory.

He had originally been slotted for an interim title shot against Jhack Tepora in January before Tepora missed weight, but will now have his chance to fight for a belt against one of the most-feared punchers at 130-pounds on February 9. The 30-year-old from Sinaloa, Mexico stands at five feet, nine inches tall, nearly four inches taller than Davis, and has won three straight fights leading up to this fight.

“I trained for three months to fight a southpaw when I fought in January,” said Ruiz. “When the opponent changed, it was hard to adjust in 24 hours. After the fight I immediately went back to the gym, because you never know what’s going to happen in boxing. I’m 100 percent ready to knockout Gervonta Davis.”

“Hugo Ruiz has another opportunity to fight for a world title because he’s demonstrated that he’s devoted to boxing and his career,” said Sampson Lewkowicz, Ruiz’s Promoter. “He went right back to the gym after his last fight. He’s ready for another great opportunity to be a world champion and he’s going to take advantage of that opportunity.”

Mares injured his right elbow during sparring at the Robert Garcia Boxing Gym in Riverside, Calif. Mares said he had experienced soreness in his elbow following the past two fights, but nothing that had ever given him nor his team concern.

“I’m not going to sugarcoat this. I’m disappointed and devastated that I’ve injured my right elbow in sparring,” Mares said. “This is something that I haven’t had happen to me during my career and the feeling is just horrible. I will be going to see my doctor about this and am prepared to follow whatever recommendations and rehab that gets me back into the ring. I’m healthy, not afraid of doing the work and I will be back. This is a temporary setback. Don’t count me out.”

“Boxing is a sport of brains, passion and physical punishment,” said Mares’ trainer Robert Garcia. “When you’re in the ring sparring with talented, top-class sparring partners, the chances of injuries are very high. That was the situation in this case. He was sparring top young fighters and he injured his elbow. He cannot fight like that, especially in a fight against Davis.”

Mares, who has engaged in numerous memorable fights throughout his storied career, was seeking to move up in weight and looking to capture his fifth world title in a fourth weight class.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and www.premierboxingchampions.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. ڪ�ɑP?

boxing

Aston Palicte vs. Jose Martinez WBO Jr. Bantamweight World Title Eliminator

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Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019 * Viejas Casino & Resort * Alpine, CA

LAS VEGAS (December 20, 2019) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions will co-promote a potential early candidate for the 2019 Fight of the Year, when world title challenger “Mighty”
Aston Palicte (24-2-1, 20 KOs) takes on unbeaten Jose “Chiquiro”
Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs) in a World Boxing Organization (WBO)
junior bantamweight title eliminator on Thursday, January 31, at Viejas Casino & Resort in Alpine, California.
 

 
Palicte vs.Martinez will headline a soon-to-be-announced card in the 12-round main event, held on the Thursday night of Super Bowl week, in the Oak Ballroom. Viejas Casino & Resort is located 35 miles outside of San Diego.
 
 
 
The winner of the Palicte vs. Martinez title eliminator will become the
mandatory challenger for the winner of the New Year’s Eve match in
China for the vacant WBO Junior Bantamweight World Championship,
between No. 1 contender Donnie Nietes (41-1-5, 23 KOs) and No. 3
rated Kazuito Ioka (23-1, 13 KOs).
 
 
 
Palicte and Martinez will continue a Philippines-Puerto Rico boxing
rivalry that dates back many years, perhaps, highlighted by the 2009
showdown between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto, in which the
fabulous Filipino defeated the Puerto Rican warrior by way of a 12th 
round technical knockout. It marks the first time Jones and Cotto, two
of the greatest boxers of all-time, will be in opposite corners, in terms of competing fighters they promote, respectively, Palicte and Martinez.
 
 
 
“Having our new partnership with Viejas Casino & Resort allows us to
host these great fights,” Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions
CEO/Co-founder Keith Veltre remarked. “Having a Roy Jones Jr. and
Miguel Cotto fighter face-off makes this fight even more exciting. 2019 is going to be the biggest and most active year for RJJ Boxing.”
 
 
 
“This is the type of fight that changes your career,” Hall of
Famer/promoter Cotto said. “We know ‘Chiquiro’ Martinez is ready for
the challenge and it will be an exciting fight. Promoting this fight,
together with Roy Jones, Jr., will be great for boxing. We really look
forward to start 2019 with a great fight like Martinez vs. Palicte.”
 
 
 
“All of us at Viejas are excited to be working with Roy Jones, Jr. and look forward to this amazing event,” added Jimmy Wild, GM Viejas Casino & Resort.
 
 
 




Palicte (WBO No. 2) heads the latest wave of world-class Filipino boxers, who is coming off a controversial 12-round split draw with his fellow
countryman, 3-division world champion Nietes, for the vacant WBO
Junior bantamweight title this past September in Inglewood, California. Many at ringside felt that Palicte should have won the Filipino showdown, based on his relentless pressure and considerably higher activity rate, throwing 300-plus more punches than Nietes.
 
 
 
Palicte is also ranked No. 9 in independent world ratings by The Ring 
magazine.
 
 
 




Martinez (WBO No, 4), who captured the vacant WBO North American Boxing Organization (NABO) Championship on November 16, 2017,
knocking out Jesus Martinez (23-2-1, 11 KOs) in Cancun Mexico, has
also held the World Boxing Council Latino and WBC USNBC Silver
crowns.
 
 
 
“I want to thank God for this great opportunity,” Martinez commented. “Thank you, Miguel Cotto and the WBO. I feel excited because this is
the most important fight of my career with a high-level boxer as Palicte. I will train really hard to be in the best condition. We are really focusing on getting the big win on January 31st.”
 
 
 
Priced at $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00, tickets go on sale tomorrow (Fri., Dec. 21), and are available to purchase by going online at
www.viejas.com.
 
 
 
INFORMATION:
 
 
 
Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com
 
 
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @CottoPromotions, @viejascasino, @AstonPalicte
 
 
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear,
@Viejascasinoresort, @astonmightypalicte
 
 
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort, /MiguelCottoPromotions