Tag Archives: featherweight

DJ Zamora Embraces Tough Step-up Fight Against Jesus Ibarra this Saturday on Benavidez-Plant Card

‘THE WAR MACHINE
Photo photo photo photo Credit / Nathan Media @nathanmedia
DJ Zamora Embraces Tough Step-up Fight Against Jesus Ibarra this Saturday on Benavidez-Plant Card


Las Vegas, NV (March 23, 2023) – Undefeated super featherweight, DJ “The War Machine” Zamora (10-0, 8 Kos), is excited to be returning to the ring as prepares to take on his toughest test when he battles Jesus Abel Ibarra (15-0, 7 Kos), in what is sure to be an epic clash of unbeaten fighters.

The 8-round bout will take place this Saturday March 25, 2023, on the highly anticipated Benavidez vs. Plant card at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. “I am very excited to share the ring with another undefeated fighter and this is by far the biggest opportunity of my career,” stated Zamora, who will be fighting in his hometown Las Vegas. “I know exactly what is on the line and what I must do. I hope to give the fans a great show and send a message to the super-featherweight division. I know Ibarra, like me, is a tough fighter with a lot of heart, so we both will be leaving everything in the ring. Fans can expect to see an explosive fight.”

Zamora, who is only 19 le lilemo li, has quickly become one of the most talked-about fighters in the Las Vegas boxing scene. He’s already shown that he has the power and skill to be a force in the ring. But his impressive record is not the only thing that sets him apart. Zamora has sparred with some of the biggest names in boxing. These experiences have given him valuable insights into the sport and have helped him to hone his skills even further.

“I’ve gained a lot of knowledge and experience having sparred guys like Devin Haney le Shukur Stevenson, as well as my others out here in Las Vegas,” continued Zamora. "Ryan Garcia invited me to one of his training camps a few years back, and that work was incredible. I know what I’m capable of and I am very thankful for the opportunity to be fighting under the bright lights. I want to thank my team for making this possible. My confidence is at an all-time high and all the hard work will be on display this Saturday.”

The excitement surrounding this fight is palpable, with fans and experts alike eagerly anticipating the clash between these two unbeaten fighters. It’s sure to be a thrilling battle. Don’t miss your chance to see one of the most exciting young fighters in boxing take on his toughest challenge yet.

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Pennsylvania featherweight Cornellio Phipps living the dream 2022 Youth World Championships November 14-26 in La Nucia, Spain

Colorado Springs, Lap. (November 10, 2022) – As talented featherweight Cornellio “Chada” Phipps prepares for the upcoming Youth World Championships, he admits to living the dream, and before he turns pro in a few years, the Olympic-style boxing plan for him is medaling in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

The 17-year-old Phipps, who fights out of Oxford, Pa., first got into boxing four years ago on the advice of his father. Phipps played basketball and football, but he didn’t feel either of those were his true spot. He actually fell in love with boxing while watching fights before he even boxed, when he was seven.   

“I tell people to never give up their dreams, to keep punching, and never let anybody doubt you,” Phipps said. “This feels good (preparing for the Youth Worlds). I never thought I’d get to this stage. It’s been tough but fun. I’m on Team USA representing my country.

“It starts on the big stage by me medaling at the Youth Worlds (November 14-26, in La Nucia, Spain). Being on Team USA has made a big difference for me. I’ve learned how to box against different moves, understanding the points system, and how to win. Training in Colorado Springs has helped me to succeed and also have fun learning from my new coaches.”

Phipps (headgear).jpg

Phipps has already tasted success prior to the Youth Worlds. He has captured gold medals at the 2022 USA Boxing National Qualifier, 2021 USA Boxing Youth National Championships, hammoho le 2020 le 2019 Junior National Championships.

All-around boxer-puncher is the best way to describe Phipps style in the ring. He can brawl, lebokose le reng, and move around well. “I’m more of a boxer than brawler,” he noted. “I can fight on the outside or lay on the ropes. I move and show angles, plus I can easily switch to southpaw (from his orthodox stance)."

Like many of his young USA Boxing teammates, the Youth Worlds will be the first international competition of his career. These championships is something he is really looking forward to for a wide variety of reasons.

“I’m excited to be fighting on my first international competition at the Youth Worlds in Spain,” Phipps concluded. “I was supposed to fight in a tournament in Bulgaria in 2020, but that was canceled due to COVID. I’m going to show my skills at the Youth Worlds to prove I belong at the top level, and that is the Olympics.”

Competition begins in La Nucia, Spain on Tuesday, Nov. 15 and can be followed along byclicking here.

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing,org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

ABOUT USA BOXING:  The mission of USA Boxing shall be to enable United States’ athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence, develop character, support the sport of boxing, and promote and grow Olympic style boxing in the United States. The responsibility of USA Boxing is not only to produce Olympic gold, but also to oversee and govern every aspect of amateur boxing in the United States.

LANGSTON STEPS IN TO REMATCH RICHARD AT NEF 46 THIS SATURDAY

LANGSTON STEPS IN TO REMATCH RICHARD AT NEF 46 ENA Moqebelo

BAKENG SA haufi Release: Portland, Maine (February 8, 2022) - New England ho loana ka (NEF) returns with its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) ketsahalo, "NEF 46: Decade of Dominance,” on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine. The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. The leading regional promotion launched on February 11, 2012. Pele ho moo kajeno, NEF announced the addition of a professional featherweight bout to the fight card.Carl Langston(0-6) tla nka kaZac “Rocky” Richard (1-0) at a fight weight of 145 lik'hilograma tse.

Langston stepped in on short notice to replace Richard’s previous opponent Urias Osorio (0-0) who pulled out of the fight earlier in the week. Likewise, Langston was recently left without an opponent on the “NEF 46” card when his originally-scheduled opponent Shaun Ray (2-1) revealed to promoters that he could no longer pass medicals to obtain a fight license.

The bout will now be a rematch of the first meeting between Langston and Richard that took place last November at “NEF45.” That fight, which was Richard’s professional debut, saw Richard defeat Langston by technical knockout in the first round. Langston says the outcome will be different this Saturday.

“When I got asked to take this rematch on short notice it was a no brainer for me,” said Langston.  “Thank you to NEF for the opportunity and Zac’s team. This fight is going to have a very different outcome.”

“I’m very disappointed in the original fight being dropped,” noted Richard. “However, I worked too hard to sit on the sidelines and watch. I’m thankful to still have the opportunity to fight.”

"NEF 46: Decade of Dominance” takes place this Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine. The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. Mamati a butsweng ka 6 pm with first fight at 7 pm. Tickets are on sale now atwww.Ticketmaster.comThe event will also stream live in its entirety atwww.CombatSportsNow.com at a price of $29.99.

FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT ADDED TO NEF 43 CARD IN ORONO, Maine

BAKENG SA haufi Release: Orono, Maine (March 10, 2020) - New England ho loana ka (NEF) will present its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event at the Collins Center for the Arts on the University of Maine’s flagship Orono campus. The event, titled “NEF 43: Rampage,” will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2020, with a bell-time of 7 pm EDT. Earlier today, the fight promotion announced the addition of a professional featherweight bout to the card.Carl Langston (0-5) e ho lokiselitsoe ho kopana leAaron “Short Fuse” Hughes(0-0) at a fight weight of 145 lik'hilograma tse.

Carl Langston comes into the fight looking for the first win that has eluded him thus far in his professional career. Last month, Langston took on Jacob Deppmeyer (1-0) in Portland, Maine at “NEF 42,” losing via first-round technical knockout. It was his first fight back with the promotion since losing his pro debut in April 2018. Langston, a lifelong practitioner of Taekwondo, currently represents Young’s MMA based in nearby Bangor, Maine.

“It’s been hard getting fights altogether, but even more so in my home state,” noted Langston.  “So, with this last lost I didn’t think I was going to get another fight for a bit. I got in my own head and said I wanted to stop fighting for a bit, but when I got the call three weeks after the loss, I couldn’t say no. This is something I need, back-to-back fights. I just have to show up like I show up in the gym and I’ll get my hand raised without a doubt.”

Aaron Hughes will make both his professional and promotional debuts with NEF. He has had a very active amateur career since his debut in 2015, putting together a record of 4-6 while competing on fight cards in his home state of Massachusetts. Hughes represents Regiment Training Center of Fall River, Massachusetts where he trains alongside the likes of current UFC star and former NEF Professional Cruiserweight Champion Yorgan De Castro (6-0).

“I’m really excited to take the trip to Maine to make my professional debut,” said Hughes when reached for comment.  “My opponent is skilled, but I’m coming to put on a show, and he’s just a man in the way of my dreams to the UFC. Thank you to NEF for having me out.”

New England ho loana ka’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 43: Rampage,” will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2020, at the Collins Center for the Arts at UMaine Orono. Tickets ba tsa rekisoa joalewww.CollinsCenterfortheArts.com.  

Ka New England ho loana ka

New England ho loana ka ("NEF") ke ho loana moodle moodle moodle ho phahamiswa khampani. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF oa phethahatso sehlopha o na le a pharaletseng a le phihlelo ea ho loantsa tsa tsamaiso ya dipapadi, moodle moodle moodle tlhahiso, metswedi ya dikgang, tsa mebaraka, molao le papatso.

Undefeated Featherweight Ruben Villa now Ranked Number-Nine by Ring Magazine

Photo by Emily Harney / Banner banner banner ho phahamiswa

Featherweight contender also ranked #5 ke WBO le #13 ke WBC

Philadelphia, PA / NAMUNU, JOALO KA- February 20, 2020 – Krrish featherweight Ruben Villa hona joale Thailand Ranked #9 by Ring Magazine.

Villa (18-0, 5 Kos) of Salinas, California is just three weeks removed from an impressive 10-round unanimous decision over Alexei Collado in a bout that headlined a ShoBox: The New Generation card in Shreveport, Louisiana. Le trong win, Villa successfully defended his WBO International title.

In that bout, Villa was dominant throughout and displayed a diverse arsenal of punches that were very effective in decisively out punching the offensive minded Collado.

The ranking from the heralded magazine, adds to his world rankings of #5 ke WBO le #13 ke WBC.

I was just surprised to get the recognition that I deserve. It’s been tough, but its finally starting to payoff. I am trying to get better with each fight and the people were happy. That the last fight against Collado meant a lot and opened up many doors,” said Villa

Being recognized in the top-10 by Ring Magazine solidifies and validates Ruben of graduating from top-prospect to bona fide contender. In his next bout, we are looking for Ruben to really make a statement and face another world-ranked opponent in order to put him in position to fight for a world title,” o ile a re Banner ho phahamiswa Mopresidente, Artie Pelullo.

The rise of Ruben Villa has been gaining momentum since the world got to see him on Showtime last year. A world title bout is in his immediate future and it’s great to see the media, like Ring Magazine, recognizing his accomplishments.stated Ken Thompson, CEO of Thompson Boxing Promotions.




Bakeng sa lintlafatso khafetsa ho bahlabani ba rona, liketsahalo, le ho phahamiswa mosebetsing, please like the Banner Promotions Facebook Page, and follow us on Instagram le Twitter BannerBoxing.

Deontay Wilder Defends His WBC Heavyweight Title in Highly Anticipated Rematch Against Luis Ortiz on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Saturday, November 23 ka MGM Grand Garden Arena ho la Las Vegas

Three-Division Champion Leo Santa Cruz Seeks Title in Fourth Division When He Battles Miguel Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship in Co-Main Event

Boxing’s Longest Reigning Heavyweight Champion Battles Dangerous Cuban Puncher to Settle Score After Epic First Clash

Tickets on Sale Now!

Las Vegas (September 28, 2019) – Boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world championDeontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilderwill take on his most dangerous challenger to date when he defends his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban sluggerLuis “King Kong” Ortiz in the main event of the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Saturday, Nov. 23 ka MGM Grand Garden Arena ho la Las Vegas.

Three-division champion and current WBA Featherweight ChampionTau “Tšisinyeho ea lefatše” Santa Cruz will seek a title in another division in the co-main event when he takes onMiguel “El Michoacan” Lipalesa for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship as part of the pay-per-view action beginning at 9 p.m. Et / 6 p.m. PT.

Wilder and Ortiz will renew the rivalry they set in motion when they first engaged in an explosive showdown in Brooklyn that was one of 2018’s best fights. Wilder won that bout by 10go th round TKO after Ortiz stunned him and almost had him out in the seventh round. The thrilling match featured plenty of twists and turns to necessitate a rematch.

With a combined 66 knockouts a 74 mollo, Wilder vs.. Ortiz II is a heavyweight duel that guarantees an awesome display of punching power. The first fight last year saw Wilder dropping Ortiz in the fifth round, Ortiz stunning and hurting Wilder in a seventh round that he won 10-8 on all the judges’ dikarete tsa, and Wilder eventually dropping Ortiz again with a powerful right uppercut that forced the referee to stop the bout in the 10go th pota.

Tickets bakeng sa ketsahalo, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions, TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased atwww.mgmgrand.com kapawww.axs.com.

We are thrilled to add this phenomenal heavyweight rematch between Deontay Wilder and Luis Ortiz to an exciting month of entertainment at MGM Grand,” Richard Sturm, President of Las Vegas Live Entertainment and Sports, a re. “We can’t wait for fight fans to witness what is sure to be a ‘knockoutof an evening at the Grand Garden Arena.

Wilder (41-0-1, 40 Kos), a bronze medal winner for the U.S. boxing team at the 2008 Olympic Games, has more than lived up to the nicknameThe Bronze Bomber.The 33-year-old Wilder has knocked out all but one of the men that he has faced in the ring, making him one of the most feared single-punch knockout artist in boxing today.

The most active heavyweight champion in the sport, this will be Wilder’s third title defense in 11 dikgwedi tse. He is coming off a highlight-reel first round knockout of Dominic Breazeale in Brooklyn on May 18. Before that had one of the most dramatic matches of 2018 when he dropped Tyson Fury twice, including a stunning knockdown in the 12go th pota, on the way to a split draw last December.

Born and still living and training in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Wilder will return to fight at MGM Grand in Las Vegas for the first time since he won the heavyweight title with a dominant 12-round decision over Bermane Stiverne on January 17, 2015. The victory had even more significance for Wilder because it came on the birthday of his boxing idol, Muhammad Ali. The rematch against Ortiz will be his 10go th tlotla tshireletso.

When I fought Ortiz not only did he have the pedigree, but also he had the classification of being the boogeyman of the division,” re Wilder. “I agree with those who say that Luis Ortiz was my toughest fight to date. No one wanted to fight him and they still don’t. In the rematch there’s more confidence and more motivation to do what I have to do. I’ve already seen the style before. It’s going to make it more fun. I can’t wait to see how he tries to handle me when I’m at my best.

This is the second big fight for me under my company, BombZquad Promotions, and I’m very happy about that. We still have a lot of work to do to build it into the kind of company that I know it’s going to be in the future, but it’s coming along. To be able to do a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View at MGM Grand in Las Vegas under my own banner is fantastic.

Ortiz (31-1, 26 Kos) has ripped off three-straight victories since suffering the only loss of his career in that first match with Wilder in 2018, including most recently winning a unanimous decision over Christian Hammer on March 2. The southpaw, who was born in Camaguey, Cuba and now lives in Miami, is one of the most avoided heavyweight contenders in boxing because of his vicious knockout power and crafty southpaw boxing skills. In the first fight with Wilder, Ortiz hurt Wilder with a textbook counter right hook that nearly made him the first Cuban heavyweight world champion.

Outside of the ring, Wilder and Ortiz share a common bond-they’re both motivated to fight for their daughters. Wilder’s oldest daughter, Naieya, was born with spina bifida, motivating Wilder to take up boxing to pay for her medical expenses. Ortiz’s daughter, Lismercedes, has a painful skin condition called epidermolysis bullosa, which results in painful skin blistering and Ortiz has worked to raise awareness for.

I have to give Deontay Wilder a lot of credit for taking this fight because it shows he has the heart of a true champion,” o itse: Ortiz. “He is not at all scared to take a dangerous fight, because let’s be honest, this is the most dangerous fight for him. In my opinion, he’s the best heavyweight in the world until someone beats him, and that’s exactly what I’m going to do on November 23 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View. ‘King Kongis coming to Las Vegas!”

A three-division world champion fighting out of Los Angeles, Santa Cruz (36-1-1, 19 Kos) holds the WBA featherweight title and will be making his debut at super featherweight and seeking a title in a fourth weight class. The 31-year-old has been a dominant force in the featherweight division since 2015, including two thrilling featherweight title duels against Abner Mares and Carl Frampton each. He lost the belt in his first match against Frampton in 2016, but reclaimed it in their rematch the following year. Santa Cruz has competed in title bouts in 16 ea hae ea ho qetela 18 lintoa, while picking up belts at 118, 122 and 126-pounds and is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Rafael Rivera in his last fight in February on FOX.

When I first started boxing my dream was to be a world champion and I’ve been fortunate to win three different world championships in three different divisions,” o ile a re Santa Cruz. “I couldn’t imagine winning championships in four divisions. It’s something I never really dreamed of and I’m very happy about this opportunity.

I know Flores is another tough Mexican boxer like me. He always comes forward, so it’s going to be a fun fight for the fans. I’m really looking forward to fighting again in Las Vegas at MGM Grand. It’s going to be a really exciting atmosphere because you have Deontay Wilder and Luis Ortiz in a heavyweight championship fight, and Deontay always knocks his opponents out, but we’re hoping that our fight will steal the night.

Lipalesa (24-2, 12 Kos) was originally scheduled to fight Santa Cruz for the featherweight title in February, but severely sprained his ankle in training and had to withdraw from the fight. A hlaha ka Mexico, but raised in and fighting out of Houston, Flores rose up the rankings with victories over Ryan Kielczweski, Ruben Tamayo and Mario Briones. After suffering a loss to Dat Nguyen and seeking to rebound, Flores was ahead on the scorecards against Chris Avalos in a fight on FS1 when the contest was stopped due to a cut on Floreseyebrow that was controversially ruled to have come from a punch. Flores bounced back from that loss to stop Raul Chirino in April 2018 and also scored a TKO victory against Luis May in his most recent fight on June 29 after the ankle injury.

I’m extremely excited to be getting this opportunity once again to fight Leo Santa Cruz and win a world title,” re Flores. “Being the co-main event on this FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View card with Wilder vs. Ortiz headlining is incredible. This is a dream come true for me, and I’m going to take advantage of the situation. This moment in my life is something I’ve envisioned since I was a kid. On November 23, you will see the best version of myself as I plan to be in the best shape of my life, with the goal of becoming a world champion, and what better way to do it than in Las Vegas at MGM Grand. Leo and I are going to put on a great show, that you can guarantee.

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RENO’S JJ MARIANO TO MAKE PRO DEBUT / CARSON CITY’S ELIZONDO RETURNS TO RING JUNE 8TH

Ka 'na bo30, Reno — Northern Nevadans JJ Mariano and Diego Elizondo are scheduled to fight on the June 8th world-championship boxing card at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. The event is presented by Top Rank Inc., A re ke re e Fumana Ka ho phahamiswa, and the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. The evening’s feature attraction matches World Champion Oscar Valdez (25-0, 20 Kos) against Jason Sanchez (14-0, 7 Kos) for the WBO Featherweight World Title.  



Making his highly anticipated pro debut, Reno’s own JJ Mariano will be fighting William Flenoy of Fresno in a four-round jr. welterweight bout. Mariano, who has been exciting local boxing fans by fighting for University of Nevada Reno’s boxing program, is ready to throw his hat into the prize ring.  

“I’ve been looking forward to fighting professionally for about a year now.” Says Mariano. “Being able to have your first pro fight in your hometown is something special.”

Mariano, who is a Reed High School graduate, has also recently participated in various Golden Glove tournaments.

In a battle of undefeated prospects, Carson City lightweight Diego Elizondo (2-0-1) will be fighting Sacramento’s Sergio Vega (2-0) in a four-round match. After a layoff, Elizondo is eager to get back into the squared-circle.

“I have bigger plans in boxing.” Says Elizondo.  “A win over Vega will be a step in the right direction.”


Valdez-Sanchez and the 10-round co-feature will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 10 p.m. Et / 7 p.m. PT. Undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, qala ka 6:30 p.m. LE / 3:30 p.m. PT.

Fight card and event details are subject to change.

Tickets for this world championship event priced at $103, $68 le $43 are on sale now and can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com or in person at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa gift shop.

JULIA BUDD DEFENDS HER BELLATOR FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE AGAINST OLGA RUBIN AT WINSTAR WORLD CASINO AND RESORT ON JULY 12


Tickets tsa rekisoa hona joale!



Los Angeles – Bellator’s return to WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville, Okla. ka labohlano, July 12 will be headlined by a women’s featherweight title fight featuring Canada’s Julia Budd (12-2) defending her title for a third time against undefeated Olga Rubin (6-0) of Israel.


The event will be broadcast live and free on Paramount Network at 9 p.m. Et / 8 p.m. CT, as well as DAZN.com, while preliminary action will stream on Bellator.com and globally on the Bellator Mobile App. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the WinStar World Casino and Resort box office, as well as through Ticketmaster and Bellator.com. Additional bouts will be announced in the coming weeks.



Fighting out of Port Moody, British Columbia, Canada, Budd is set to enter the Bellator cage for the first time in 2019 and for the third time since claiming the inaugural Bellator women’s featherweight world title in 2017. Currently riding a winning streak of 10 lipheletsong, including six straight since joining forces with Bellator in 2015, “The Jewel” has her eyes set on a third consecutive world title defense when she challenges the undefeated Rubin on July 12. Since knocking off Dutch legend Marloes Coenen for the 145-pound strap at Bellator 174, the Gibson MMA-product has since collected back-to-back victories over top contenders Arlene Blencowe le Talita Nogueira. With six of her 12 mosebetsi oa hapa tla ka tsela ea knockout kapa ikokobelletsa, the former kickboxing standout will look to hand Rubin the first loss of her professional career.



Making her fifth appearance since signing with Bellator in 2017, Rubin looks to protect her unblemished professional mark en route to her first career women’s featherweight world title on July 12. Following a pair of notable knockouts in her first two promotional appearances at Bellator 164 le Bellator 188, the 29-year-old prospect has bolstered her resume with dominating victories over the likes of Cindy Dandois and Iony Razafiarisonin each of her past two bouts. Now residing in Holon, Iseraele, Rubin splits her time training between Tel Aviv and London’s Team Titan under the tutelage of veteran Brad Pickett. “Big Bad” will look to become the first fighter to beat Budd in almost eight years and join a select group of women that includes just Ronda Rousey and Amanda Nunes, who have succeeded against the champ in the past.



Updated Bellator: Budd vs. Rubin Fight Card:

Women’s Featherweight World Title Bout: Julia Budd (12-2) vs.. Olga Rubin (6-0)



*Card subject to change



Please visit Bellator.com bakeng sa tlhahisoleseding e.



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Leo Santa Cruz VS. RAFAEL RIVERA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS


PBC ka Fox & FOX Deportes Headlined by Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Taking on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera This Saturday Night from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Phela ka ho a Los Angeles

Click MONA for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions

Los Angeles (February 14, 0219) – There was no love lost on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles as fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes exchanged words and went face-to-face at the final press conference before their respective showdowns this Saturday night at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live.

WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo leo leo Santa Cruz will defend his title against Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event of the show. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. Et / 5 p.m. PT and will feature an exciting clash between contenders Omar Figueroa leJohn Molina Jr., plus unbeaten prospects Sebastian Fundora le Donnie Marshall going toe-to-toe.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, leng Sale hona joale, and can be purchased at AXS.com.

The event also featured an appearance by former world champion and Southern California fan-favorite Fernando Vargas. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Conga Room:

LEO Santa Cruz

We were getting ready for Miguel Flores, but in the gym you have to always be ready for any kind of style. We had been already been working with sparring partners who brawl, and that’s what we expect from Rafael Rivera.

I knew immediately that Rivera was a good opponent. He’s young and hungry and that makes him dangerous. He can take punches, so we’re ready for 12 o garela. We’re going to be smart in this fight because we know what Rivera can do.

Seeing my dad going through cancer treatment has been very tough. He motivates me to go to the gym and train hard, because I know if he sees me working hard, it will motivate him as well.

I’m just looking to go out there, give a great fight and help my name continue to grow so that I can fight the best.

I love fighting and training here in Los Angeles. It gives me a chance to be with my family more. When I have them here, it makes me train harder. I do all of this for them and their future.

If I can get this win, we want to unify the belts or make the third fight against Carl Frampton. Haeba e se, we will go to 130 pounds and seek a title in a new weight class.

Rafael Rivera

I’ve stepped in late before to a big fight. I’m always ready when it comes. Expect a surprise come Saturday night.

I know that I have everything it takes to bring this title back to Tijuana. We’ve trained hard and had these last four weeks to focus in on breaking Leo down.

I’m prepared for anything Leo brings into the ring. Everyone knows he’s very tough and throws a lot of punches, but I believe I am the faster fighter and I can hurt him with counters.

This is the best opportunity I’ve had, going up against a great champion like Leo. I’m ready for fight and a great show for the fans.

Omar FIGUEROA

Given our styles, there’s no way this is going to go the distance. I think this is going to be an early night and I’m planning on having my hand raised.

The layoff didn’t affect me against Robert Guerrero, so I don’t see why it will affect me now. That’s why I keep my style consistent. The only difference is the character across from me in the ring. This fight will depend on how John wants it to go, because I’m coming to fight.

I’m just looking to get in the ring and take advantage of this opportunity I’ve been given. I’ve made changes that have made my whole game so much easier. It’s a totally different mentality that I have now.

“Kampong ea koetliso a tsoela e khōlō. I’ve made a lot of changes in my lifestyle and I’m dedicated 100 percent to boxing. Things have never been better.

JOHANNE Molina JR.

It’s time to fight. The hard work is done and the time is now. Talk is cheap. Ka Moqebelo bosiu, we’ll get down.

I’ve been down this road before. I was never given lofty expectations. There’s no pressure here. I think Omar’s style will accommodate mine and make it a fun fight for the fans.

Whenever I fight, it’s going to be exciting. You can say the same thing about Omar. I’m prepared for any version of Omar. Just like any other fight. I can’t wait until Saturday night to get in there and do what I do best.

I’ve put everything into this camp, like I’m sure my opponent has. That’s what we owe to the fans and it’s going to come to fruition Saturday night.

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

I expect a good fight. He’s an undefeated fighter and I hope to give the fans a great show and walk away victorious.

We’re totally focused on this fight. I just train and everything else is out of the way. I trained hard and I’m going to do my thing like always.

I’m still growing as a fighter. We’re getting better with every camp and every fight. It’s good that we keep fighting quality opponents, because it helps accelerate that process.

Hopefully we’re going to display a lot more boxing and technique in this fight. I think Marshall is going to come inside and attack the body. I think if I’m able to stop him, it will be from the boxing skills that I show.

DONNIE MARSHALL

I’m ready to dominate the fight like I always do. That’s the only thing on my mind. I don’t care about his height, record or anything else. I’m coming to dominate.

I’ve never been concerned with the height of Fundora. We sparred with some good strong southpaws in Florida including Yamaguchi Falcao. Then we went to Las Vegas for the second half of training camp and worked with some top prospects. I’m more than prepared for anything.

Every fight is a make or break fight. I’ve trained against top fighters and been all around the country in different gyms. I’ve only been pro two and a half years. Ke e monyenyane 30. I’m going to announce myself on Saturday in a big way.

RICHARD Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports

This weekend is another example why Los Angeles is such a great fight town. We’re going to have a fantastic crowd at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live on Saturday night. I think that speaks to the strength of this city as a boxing town, and the strength of this card. This is top to bottom one of the best cards I can remember here in Los Angeles.

The tripleheader on FOX and FOX Deportes has three fights that want to steal the night. We will see which fight and which fighter everyone will be talking about after Saturday. There are definitely some fights on this card that have ‘Fight of the Yearwritten all over them.

We are committed to continuing to bring the best and biggest fights to the fans here in Los Angeles, because Los Angeles is the fight capital of the world again.

# # #

ABOUT SANTA CRUZ VS. RIVERA
Leo Santa Cruz vs. Rafael Rivera is a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event that will see featherweight world champion Leo leo leo Santa Cruz take on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Phela ka ho a Los Angeles.

Televised kgaso qala ka 8 p.m. Et / 5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa loantšanang thata-ho otla John Molina Jr. and a matchup between unbeaten prospects Sebastien Fundora le Donnie Marshall. Rising prospect and 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas will compete in a swing bout that will air live if time permits.

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.

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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON FOX & Fox SPORTS: Leo Santa Cruz VS. RAFAEL RIVERA MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS


PBC ka Fox & FOX Deportes Headlined by Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Taking on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera This Saturday Night from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Phela ka ho a Los Angeles

ClickMONA for Photos from Luis Mejia/TGB Promotions

Los Angeles(February 13, 2019) – Fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event took part in a media workout Wednesday as they near their respective showdowns this Saturday night at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Phela ka ho a Los Angeles.
 
Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, leng Sale hona joale, and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
Wednesday’s workout featured Mexican contenderRafael Rivera, who will battle WBA Featherweight World ChampionLeo leo leo Santa Cruz e kholo ea ho ketsahalo.
 
Also working out Wednesday at City of Angels Boxing Club were unbeaten former championOmar Figueroale ho leng thata-ho otlaJohn Molina Jr., who battle in super lightweight action, and unbeaten prospectDonnie Marshall, who faces fellow-unbeatenSebastian Fundorain a super welterweight bout that kicks off televised coverage at 8 p.m. Et / 5 p.m. PT. Unbeaten 2016 U.S. OlympianKarlos Balderaswas also in attendance, as he competes in a TV swing bout.
 
The fighters will go face-to-face at a press conference on Thursday that will feature former two-time world champion and Southern California favorite Fernando Vargas. Here ke seo 'bahlabani ile a tlameha ho re Wednesday:
 
Rafael Rivera
 
When I got this opportunity, Ke ne ke sa nahana ka makhetlo a mabeli. I was training and ready and I wanted this challenge. I’m here to make the most of it.
 
Like I always say to my fans, be ready for a great fight. I’m looking to make this very exciting and interesting. The belt is coming back with me to Tijuana.
 
I never look for the knockout, but I’ve still been able to get them. Ke se ke lokile, so I hope he’s also ready to give the fans a great fight.
 
This is a big challenge for me. I’m coming for that world title. I want to prove how good I am and become a world champion for my fans in Tijuana.
 
I love to face the best fighters out there. Leo is a fighter who throws a lot of punches. We’ve seen it and we’ve studied it. But I don’t think he’s very fast. I’m faster than he is and I have to take advantage of that. I have to counter him when he comes in and do my job.
 
Omar FIGUEROA
 
I’m looking to come back strong against Molina. My style is always to go in there for the knockout and give the fans a great show. The sooner we get him out of there, betere.
 
We know that John Molina is a tough fighter. He’s been in there with some of the best in the world and he’s given them problems. We expect him to bring a great fight.
 
We’ve seen Molina box before and make things difficult for certain fighters. I’m going to try to make the fight my style of fight and we’ll see if he obliges. Once he feels the power, he might choose to box.
 
I don’t think this goes past six rounds. I’m confident about that. We’re going to be ready for anything Molina brings.
 
I’ve been doing a lot of healing physically, kelellong le moeeng. I’m looking to show on Saturday that I’ve got everything together.
 
JOHANNE Molina JR.
 
I feel excited and confident. Maybe overconfident, but I am ready. We did our job in the gym and now we are ready for the fight.
 
I have to expect the best version of Omar Figueroa. He is a smart kid. I don’t know if he is trying to entice me into a war right away. I don’t know what his game plan is, but we will find out on Saturday.
 
Fans need to tune in on FOX and FOX Deportes February 16. This is going to be a war and I believe we’re going to steal the show.
 
This isn’t my first go around against a Joel Diaz-trained fighter. I did it before with Ruslan Provodnikov and now it is my job to beat Figueroa.
 
I am not affected by being considered the underdog. Every one of my fights, fans make money. I think Provodnikov I was 11-1. When you become a veteran in the sport, you stop worrying about stuff like that. Talk is cheap.
 
There is a lot at stake for me. I don’t feel pressure, but there is a lot at stake. Every fight of my career I have something to prove and Saturday is no different.
 
DONNIE MARSHALL
 
This is my first big opportunity and I’m ready to take full advantage. I’m going to show everybody where I’m at.
 
I’m going to take it as it comes in the ring. We have a game plan, but I’m a creator in the ring. I create on the go. I’ll fit in where I can and go with the flow of the fight.
 
The only challenge I see is his height. He’s obviously very tall at six-foot seven-inches. We know what we have to do to break him down. I don’t even really see the height as a challenge, because I spar with heavyweights all the time.
 
“Ke 10-0, but I only started boxing when I was 20, ka 10 lilemong tse fetileng. I don’t have the time like young prospects who want to play around, I want to fight any and everybody I can right now.
 
KARLOS BALDERAS
 
I feel excited and anxious to get back in the ring. I’m ready physically and mentally. I know that my opponent won’t be ready for the heat I’m going to throw at him.
 
This year I’m looking to be busy. I want to be back in the ring in April if everything goes well on Saturday. After this fight I’m going to move to Los Angeles and add trainer Roberto Alcazar to my team. He’s had a lot of experience in big fights and I think he’s going to be a great help. I can really understand clearly what he’s trying to teach me.
 
I’m going to show everyone that I’m the real deal once again. I’m going to prove why these fighters can’t make it through a fight with me. This year is all business for me.
 
#         #       #
 
ABOUT SANTA CRUZ VS. RIVERA
Leo Santa Cruz vs. Rafael Rivera is a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event that will see featherweight world championLeo leo leo Santa Cruztake on Mexico’sRafael Rivera in the main event Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Phela ka ho a Los Angeles.
 
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. Et / 5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten former championOmar Figueroaloantšanang thata-ho otlaJohn Molina Jr. and a matchup between unbeaten prospectsSebastien FundoraleDonnie Marshall. Rising prospect and 2016 U.S. OlympianKarlos Balderaswill compete in a swing bout that will air live if time permits.
 
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tp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage
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