Tag Archives: Golden Boy Promotions

Undefeated NABF Welterweight Champion Blair “The Flair” Cobbs Battles Samuel Kotey Friday February 14, From the Honda Center in Anaheim, California Live on DAZN

Click HERE for Photos from Team Cobbs

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 10, 2020) – Undefeated NABF Welterweight Champion Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (14-0-1, 10 KOs) hosted a Las Vegas media workout Saturday in preparation for his upcoming bout against Samuel Kotey (23-2, 16 KOs) which takes place Friday, February 14 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.


Cobbs, who is managed by Greg Hannely of Prince Ranch Boxing and promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, will make his 2020 debut as part of the of Ryan Garcia versus Francisco Fonseca card, which will air live on DAZN at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.


Here is what Cobbs had to say Saturday from the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in Las Vegas:


BLAIR COBBS


“This camp has been amazing. I’ve had nothing but the greatest sparring partners to get prepared for this upcoming bout. My trainer Brandon Woods has been sharpening up my tools and I’m ready to preform at my best on fight night. Everyone can expect to see the best Blair “The Flair” Cobbs possible. This is a sport filled with entertainment and I call myself “The most exciting man in Boxing”.


“On Valentines Day, I’m going to steal the show and all the fans watching on DAZN will see an amazing performance from me. My opponent, Samuel Kotey, is a tough hombre who is coming to win, but I have other plans for him. There is nothing he can do that will outmatch my skill and desire to win this fight.”


“It’s been a wonderful experience having the Mexican fans behind me being that they know that’s where I first learned how to box when I fled to Guadalajara, Mexico. It’s been a hell of a journey coming back to the United States from Mexico, where I learned to fight the Mexican style, always throwing big shots to entertain the fans. Fighting in the amateurs in Mexico, is like fighting in the pros. Sometimes we didn’t use headgear. It was crazy, but it made me the fighter I am today.”

BLAIR “THE FLAIR” COBBS RETURNS TO THE RING NOVEMBER 2ND ON CANELO VS. KOVALEV CARD

LAS VEGAS, NV (October 10, 2019) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s undefeated welterweight contender,Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (12-0-1, 8 KOs), who is by promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, faces Carlos Ortiz (11-4, 11 KOs) of Torreon, Mexico, for the vacant NABF title.  The 10-round bout will take place on November 2, 2019, as part of the undercard of Canelo Alvarez versus Sergey Kovalev at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, which will air live on DAZN.
 
“It is a great opportunity and one I’m going to take full advantage of,” said Blair Cobbs, who is managed by Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing. “I have worked very hard and I feel that fighting on a Canelo card, and for the NABF title, is the perfect chance for me to elevate my game, as well as put on a show for my fans.”
 
Cobbs, who is also advised by Shahid Malik, made noise earlier this year by defeating 
Ferdinand “Lucky Boy” Kerobyan (12-1, 7 KOs), in Kerobyan’s hometown of Hollywood, California, and in his last bout stopped Steve “Manos de Oro” Villalobos (11-1, 1, 9 KOs) by way of a ninth-round knockout. Blair’s last three opponents had a combined record of (29-1-1, 22 KOs) making Cobbs one of the most battle-tested contenders in the welterweight division.
 
“We’re very excited with the way that Blair Cobbs has performed as a professional,” stated Greg Hannely, Cobbs manager. “He has defeated great opponents and is rising to the occasion each and every time he steps up in competition. A win in this bout will catapult him to a top-15 ranking. In addition, the exposure he will get fighting on this card will be unbelievable. Blair is a fan favorite, and everyone wants to see him fight.”
 
“I just want to put on a show and have fun like I always do,” Cobbs continued. “I am excited to show off my talent to a bigger audience.  Blair “The Flair” is coming…Whooo!”
 
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Canelo vs. Kovalev is a 12-round fight for the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title presented by Golden Boy, Main Events and Krusher Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and Brand-New Grapefruit Crush, Knockout Flavor. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN. The title clash is one of several highlights this fight season on DAZN – an entire fall featuring boxing’s biggest matchups in one of the best schedules in boxing history.
   
Tickets for Canelo vs. Kovalev are on sale and are priced at $1,754, $1,254, $854, $654, $404 and $204, not including applicable service charges and taxes. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.axs.com
 
For more information, visit  www.goldenboypromotions.comwww.MainEvents.com
and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @KrusherKovalev and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at 
www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing
www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarezhttps://www.facebook.com/thekrusher/
https://www.facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing and 
https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @SergeyKrusherKovalev, and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKovalev.
 
Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/CaneloKovalev to a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy or Main Events where applicable for any photo and/or video usage.       

Canelo ALVAREZ VS. Daniel JACOBS ** In-Depth Preview and Analysis **



By: Tony Penecale
 
The biggest week in boxing is upon us with the annual Cinco de Mayo weekend extravaganza in Las Vegas.  The Mexican marquee star Saul “Canelo” Alvarez returns to his home-away-from-home to face the challenge of fellow middleweight titlist, Daniel “Miracle Man” Jacobs, who is intent on spoiling the homecoming.

Can Canelo sprinkle some extra cinnamon on an explosive victory?  Or will it be Jacobs who provides another miracle in his story-book comeback?
 
  
AGE, RECORD, AND STATS
 
Alvarez:                    Age:  28 years old
                                    Record:  51-1-2 (35 Knockouts)
                                    Height:  5’9”
                                    Weight:  167   * * Weight for last bout (12-15-18)
                                    Reach:  70”
 
 
Jacobs:                    Age:  32 years old
                                    Record:  35-2 (29 Knockouts)
                                    Height:  5’11”
                                    Weight:  159   * * Weight for last bout (10-27-18)
                                    Reach:  73”
 
 
RING ACCOMPLISHMENTS
 
Alvarez:       
                                    WBC Junior Middleweight Champion (’11-’13)
                                   
WBA Junior Middleweight Champion (‘13)
                                    Ring Magazine Junior Middleweight Champion (’13)
                                    WBC Middleweight Champion (’15-Pres)
                                    WBA Middleweight Champion (’18-Pres)
                                    Ring Magazine Middleweight Champion (’18-Pres)
                                    WBA Super Middleweight Champion (’18-Pres)
                                    Ring Magazine Pound-4-Pound #3 Boxer
 
 
Jacobs:                   
WBA Middleweight Champion (’14-‘17)
IBF Middleweight Champion (’18-‘Pres)
 
STYLE
 
Alvarez: 
An aggressive, physical fighter with underrated boxing skills, Alvarez often wears opponents down with consistent pressure and heavy-handed punches.  Will use feints and counters to throw is opponent’s timing off and create openings for a strength-sapping body attack.  Carries fight-changing power in both hands but sometimes doesn’t throw enough punches.  While he is most known for his offensive skills, Alvarez has decent, but not great, defensive skills slipping and blocking punches.
 
Jacobs:          
A lanky, long-armed boxer with versatile skills who often fights aggressively and is not afraid to exchange punches.  Jacobs couples good boxing skills and fundamentals with knockout power in both hands.  Will sometimes be too offensive-minded and is susceptible to counter punches.  Shows tremendous heart in the face of adversity.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
STRENGTHS
 
Alvarez:          
* Power – Alvarez carries thunder in both fists.  He has knockout power in either hand, but his most devastating weapon resides in his left hook, especially to the body.  He has three knockout-of-the-year candidates in his career.
           
* Strength – Alvarez is a physically-maturing and thickly-built fighter with uncanny strength.  He is effective in backing fighters up, even when not landing flush punches.  He has grown from junior-middleweight and has competed recently at super-middleweight.
 
* Experience – Alvarez has come a long way during his professional career and has competed against some of the biggest names in boxing.  He has been in this moment numerous times and the raucous atmosphere will be second nature to him.
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Character – Jacobs stood up to and defeated the most daunting adversary of his career when he overcame bone cancer in 2011.  His character shows in the ring as he has handled some difficult challenges in his career.
 
* Power – Jacobs has registered 29 of his 35 professional victories via stoppage.  He has the power to change the fight with one punch and the killer instinct to finish a wounded opponent.
 
 
* Versatile – Jacobs possesses good boxing skills and movement, sometimes switching between orthodox and southpaw stances.  If against another aggressive opponent, Jacobs will box on his back foot and seek counter-punching opportunities.  He is adept at accelerating the pace when needed.
 
 
 
 
WEAKNESSES
 
Alvarez:          
* Tactical Mistakes – Alvarez has made tactical mistakes in some previous fights, including trying to beat Floyd Mayweather Jr. by boxing with him on the outside.  In other fights, he has allowed his opponents to control the pace and steal rounds.
 
* Easy-to-Hit – While his offensive skill is his calling card, Alvarez has a decent defense.  When he loses focus or becomes overly aggressive, he is wide open for straight right hands and counter punches.    
 
* Heavy Feet – Alvarez has good boxing ability but is often slow-footed in the ring.  When matched against taller fighters with good lateral movement, he frequently struggles, as was the case in his bouts with Austin Trout and Erislandy Lara.
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Suspect Chin – Jacobs is no stranger to tasting the canvas.  He was knocked out in devastating fashion by Dmitry Pirog in his first professional loss.  He was also on the canvas against Gennady Golovkin and Sergio Mora.
 
* Reckless – In his first fight against Mora, Jacobs became overly aggressive after scoring a knockdown and left himself wide open for a counter punch that put him on the canvas.  He was also off-balance and reckless again when he had Peter Quillin stunned.
 
* Atmosphere – Jacobs has fought in Las Vegas before and main-evented in Madison Square Garden.  However, this is his first marquee Las Vegas Cinco-de-Mayo weekend extravaganza.
 
 
 
PREVIOUS BOUT
 
Alvarez:                    (12/15/18) – Alvarez made a successful super-middleweight debut by destroying the game but overmatched Rocky Fielding in three rounds.  Alvarez punished Fielding’s body, scoring four knockdowns, and finishing him with his signature left hook to the liver.
 
Jacobs:          
(10/27/18) – Jacobs had a tough encounter with undefeated but unknown Serhiy Derevianchenko, winning a 12-round split decision.  Jacobs scored a 1st-round knockdown and landed more punches during the back-and-forth contest.
 
 
 
3 BEST PERFORMANCES
 
Alvarez:          
* James Kirkland (5/9/15) – The fireworks were on display from the opening bell as Kirkland engaged Alvarez with a kamikaze attack.  Alvarez countered and scored a 1st-round knockdown and ended the fight in the 3
rd round with a picturesque right hand.
 
* Liam Smith (9/17/16) – Alvarez methodically broke down the previously-undefeated Smith, controlling the bout from the beginning.  Alvarez scored knockdowns in the 7
th and 8th rounds before ending the show with his left hook to the liver in the 9th round.
 
* Carlos Baldomir (9/18/10) – Alvarez was a 20-year-old prodigy facing a durable former world champion in Baldomir.  Alvarez was successful boxing early and using his advantages in speed and skill to sweep the first five rounds.  But it was his display in the 6th that was memorable.  Alvarez rocked Baldomir before finally dropping with a left hook, rendering him unconscious before he hit the mat and dealing him his only stoppage loss in a 16-year career.
 
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Sergio Mora (9/9/16) – Jacobs wiped away any controversy from their first fight, which ended with Mora injuring his ankle, by dissecting him in the rematch, culminating in an impressive 7
th round TKO.  Jacobs scored a knockdown each in the 4th and 5th rounds before opening up and dropping Mora three times in the 7th round, forcing the stoppage.
                          
* Peter Quillin (12/5/15) – In a battle for Brooklyn Bragging Rights, Jacobs stunned the undefeated and favored Quillin with a 1
st round TKO.  Jacobs landed a right hand early, sending Quilling staggering into the ropes.  A follow-up flurry sent Quillin across the ring where the referee stopped the fight.
 
* Caleb Truax (4/24/15) – Jacobs dominated Truax with a masterful performance over 11 rounds, controlling the action with a heavy jab, and wearing his game opponent down.  Comfortably ahead going into the final round, Jacobs unloaded on his weakened adversary until the referee saved him from further punishment.
 
 
 
 
KEYS TO VICTORY
 
Alvarez:          
* Start fast and don’t allow Jacobs to become confident
 
* Cut off the ring and force Jacobs to fight in confined spaces
 
* Go to the body early and often
 
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Use a stiff jab and lateral movement to keep Alvarez off balance
 
* Land something to get Alvarez’s respect early
 
* Do not get reckless
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
QUESTIONS
 
Alvarez:          
* Will the move back to middleweight drain Alvarez?
                          
* Is Alvarez overlooking Jacobs?
 
*  Will Alvarez become frustrated if Jacobs uses effective lateral movement?
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Can Jacobs win a decision in Las Vegas?
 
* Will Jacobs be able to exploit Alvarez’s tactical shortcomings?
 
* How will Jacobs handle the pro-Alvarez atmosphere?
 
                          
 
PENECALE PREDICTION
 
The crowd will be buzzing at the opening bell.  Alvarez will move forward, hands up, probing with his jab and trying to set his feet.  Jacobs will be moving laterally, pawing a tentative jab and using head feints.  The cautious 1
st round will end with Alvarez stepping in and throwing a few hard body shots, causing the partisan crowd to erupt in cheers.
 
Alvarez will continue to apply pressure in the 2
nd and 3rd rounds with Jacobs working to establish his jab with more authority.  Jacobs will land a few heavy jabs to the face with Alvarez countering with right hands over the top.  Jacobs will step to his left to avoid Alvarez’s left hook to the body.
 
The action will continue to intensify through the middle rounds.  Jacobs will be following his jab with a straight right hand.  Alvarez will be crouching and using his strength on the inside, using overhand rights and hooks to the arms and ribs.
 
Alvarez will sport some redness around his eyes and Jacobs will show welts across his torso.  The pro-Alvarez crowd will gasp as Jacobs lands a series of hard right hands in the 6
th round but will then erupt in the 7th when an exchange of left hooks sees Alvarez land first, sending Jacobs sprawling back to the canvas.
 
Jacobs will rise and affirm to referee Tony Weeks that he is okay to continue.  Alvarez will attack, throwing his left hook to the body and head.  Jacobs will stagger back, set his feet, and respond with a right hand and wild left hook.  Alvarez will land a counter left hook to the head and Jacobs will clinch, with the bell ending the round.
 
The crowd will be wild with anticipation going into the 8
th round, sensing the Alvarez might be closing in on victory.  Jacobs will use lateral movement while he clears his head, probing with his jab to keep Alvarez at bay.  Alvarez will continue to look for the homerun punch, but Jacobs will stay out of range for the duration.
 
Throughout the 9
th and 10th rounds, Jacobs will be sufficiently recovered and willing to engage Alvarez, throwing more right hands, and increasing the tempo.  Alvarez will land a series of thudding hooks to the body and Jacobs will counter with uppercuts on the inside. 
 
The 11
th round will continue the intense action with both fighters having their moments.  Alvarez will become inactive for stretches of the round, allowing Jacobs to again control the pace.
 
Going into the final round, Jacobs will know that he is in danger with the bout being so close.  He will initiate the pressure on Alvarez and there will be some toe-to-toe exchanges.  As Alvarez takes a deep breath, Jacobs will successfully back him on his heels with a jab, followed by a straight-right hand.  Alvarez will roll with the punch and counter with his own right hand.  The crowd will be on its feet as the fighters exchange punches and embrace the final bell.
 
The decision will be unanimous with Dave Moretti and Glenn Feldman both scoring 115-112 and Steve Weisfeld with a wider margin of 117-110, all in favor of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.


Below you can access this week’s radio show where Tony , “Psychic” Tom Padgett and “Rabble Rousin'” Rich Bergeron discuss the fight.


Listen to “Canelo vs. Jacobs Preview, Lesnar Retires from MMA, MacDonald questions will to keep hurting people after Fitch Draw” on Spreaker. 

Time-limited Black Friday deal revealed for Liddell vs. Ortiz 3 online Pay Per View on FITE.TV

 

Golden Boy Promotions and FITE TV teamed up to release a Black Friday special offer of 50% off the regular PPV price for Liddell Ortiz 3 available for the duration of 2 hours only on Friday, Nov.23, 2018 ahead of the big trilogy showdown between Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz on the following day, Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018.

 

 

The deal goes live with the start of Liddell vs. Ortiz 3 Weigh-In official live stream at 4 PM EST / 1 PM PST on November 23

rd and ends two hours later at 6 PM EST / 3 PM PST.

 

 

During the 2-hour special, Liddell vs. Ortiz 3 will be on sale for only $19.99 exclusively on the

FITE.TV website and mobile apps for viewers in United States and Canada. The price includes both live and on-demand access to the pay per view program, available for viewing on every FITE-supported device.

 

 

Free signup on FITE is required for this amazing deal so make sure you create your FITE account now and bookmark the event to get notified when the deal unlocks.

 

 

With many Black Friday deals already coming in fast, this one is too good to pass on giving hard-core MMA fans the huge opportunity to witness the final chapter of one the biggest rivalries of the sport for half the price.

 

 

Deal closes at 6 PM EST / 3 PM PST when the event will go back on sale for $39.99 USD. Sign up to FITE now to be the first to know when sale starts.

Introducing undefeated Heavyweight Sensation James “The Beast” Wilson

Golden Boy enters “Beast Mode or No Mode”
Jared Shaw managed Heavyweight recently inked promotional deal with Golden Boy Promotions
 

Los Angeles, CA. (November 8, 2018) – In an age where heavyweight boxing is once again a hot division.  The question is still asked, who will be that next Mike Tyson like knockout artist? Or has sports like football and basketball taken the best big men away from boxing?

 

 

 

Enter James “The Beast” Wilson.

 

 

 

Wilson has all the attributes of the above mentioned qualities.  A terrific athlete, who was in an NFL training camp with a background in fighting that displays ferocious power.

 

 

 

Wilson, who just signed with Golden Boy Promotions, has a record of 8-0 with seven knockouts, but his story begins over 20 years ago in the streets of Los Angeles.

 

 

 

Wilson was going through hard times and was homeless between the ages of 13 and 15, where he was sleeping in motels, park benches, and showering in those parks.  Wilson had a scrape with the law, and that changed his life….for the better.

 

 

 

“I was locked up and then placed in a group.  That actually got me to have structure and placed me on the right track. I did well in school and started playing sports and now I had positive options in my life,” said Wilson.

 

 

 

Wilson became the Los Angeles Times High School Football Player of the year, as well as a three-time all-city Track & Field athlete, which earned him a scholarship to Concord University in West Virginia.

 

 

 

Wilson, who graduated with a degree in sociology, then went on to play professional football in of all places, Poland.

 

 

 

After that he earned a training camp invite with the Chicago Bears.  However he chose to follow another athletic passion.

 

 

 

“I started doing Kenpo-Karate, Muay-Thai and Kickboxing.”  Wilson had a professional Kickboxing record of 16-2-1 where he  competed in top organizations such as K-1 and Glory.

 

 

After that, Wilson tried his hand at MMA and racked up an impressive 5-2 record and fought for the highly regarded Bellator Fighting Championships.

 

 

 

Still not satisfied, Wilson started boxing.

 

 

 

Wilson again traveled the globe and began his punching for pay career in New Zealand.

 

 

 

“I knew a promoter in New Zealand, and I was able to fight every week there.  That sped up my process and development.  I came back to Los Angeles, and was able to get four more wins.”

 

 

 

At 7-0, Wilson then met longtime boxing industry player, Jared Shaw.

 

 

 

Shaw saw videos of Wilson on his Instagram account, and reached out to the undefeated heavyweight.

 

 

 

“Jared contacted me, and met at the gym, and he had the same vision for me that I had, and the rest is history.”

 

 

 

“I saw James as a diamond in the rough,” said Shaw.  “He has the combination and speed and power that you do not see in the heavyweight division.  He has that “it” factor that I saw with Kimbo Slice. I was fortunate enough to have signed Kimbo off of the fights that were seen on Youtube.  When Kimbo entered a room, you felt presence and energy.   I see a lot of the same qualities in terms of James being that type of an attraction.  Anybody who mistaken’s James for a football player or a Mixed Martial Artist will surely have their hands full in the boxing ring.  This is a blue-chip athlete, ” said Shaw, who grew up in the sport as his father Gary Shaw has been one of the top promoters in the world for the past three decades.

 

 

 

 

 

Shaw’s 1st job was to get James with the right trainer.  Enter Justin Fortune.

 

 

 

“I have known Justin for a long time.  Both as a strength and conditioning coach and as a trainer.  Most would know him at the side of Manny Pacquiao, but perhaps most people don’t know that Justin was a heavyweight prospect who fought Lennox Lewis.  What I like most about this pairing is Justin was a shorter heavyweight as well, but a powerful puncher.  His years of experience is what is going to help James accelerate his growth in the sport.  As a team, we have a goal to bring a world championship back to Los Angeles and in a timely fashion,” continued Shaw.

 

 

 

Shaw’s next move was to find the right promoter for Wilson to sign with, and the duo found one of the biggest companies in the world that was interested.

 

 

 

“A lot of promoters were looking at me.  I met with Golden Boy, and they saw my talent and vision and I feel that they will make it happen for me, and take me to the Heavyweight championship of the world,” said Wilson.

 

 

 

Shaw spoke highly of the marriage between fighter and promoter.

 

 

“It is the perfect situation.  Golden Boy Promotions is one of  the leaders in our sport when it comes to promotion companies. In this situation, it worked out that you have a great prospect from Los Angeles fighting from a world renowned company based in Los Angeles.  Right now Golden Boy is at the top of the sport.  They promote arguably the top fighter in the world in Canelo Alvarez, and they were able to secure him an unprecedented deal with DAZN.  We look forward to the opportunities that will come for James, and to showcase James’ extraordinary set of  skills.  I have the 100% confidence in Oscar (De La Hoya), Eric (Gomez) and Robert (Diaz) to lead James to the Heavyweight championship of the world, and help maximize his earnings potential.  Los Angeles has never had a Heavyweight champion, so it makes perfect sense that the 1st one will be with a complete Los Angeles based team with James, Justin, Golden Boy and myself. ”

 

 

 

“What I would like people to know about James is that inside the ropes, he is a Beast and Human Highlight Film, so Don’t Blink. But outside of the ring, he is an incredible father to his three boys.  A tremendous motivational speaker, and a positive role model to the inner-cities and the rest of the world.  He is big on community and helping the youth.  Especially those that are bullied.”

 

 

 

Wilson speaks to a lot of youngsters about Anti-Bullying. “I do a lot of speaking and seminars for anti-bullying.  I go to a lot of schools and foster homes and tell them my story.  I think I can be someone for kids to look up to and let them know that they have a future despite whatever circumstance they are in. I tell kids that your hands are weapons, your mouth is a weapon, and the only place for fighting is inside of a ring.”

 

 

 

When asked who he wants to fight and what his goals are in the sport, Wilson said, “I am not looking to fight anyone individual specifically, I am looking to fight all of them.  Most importantly, I am here to give the fans something to watch. It is 365 days of “Beast” season.  It’s Beast Mode or No Mode.”

 

 

 

To Follow James Wilson, click:

https://www.instagram.com/jamesthebeastwilson/

Liddell vs. Ortiz 3 to air worldwide on FITE Saturday November 24, 2018

Main card and viewing details announced

 

 

New York City (November 7, 2018): Golden Boy Promotions and FITE announced today that the third encounter of UFC Hall of Famers Tito Ortiz (19-12-1 MMA) and Chuck Liddell (21-8 MMA), taking place on Saturday Nov 24th at The “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood, Calif., will stream live around the world on the FITE digital streaming network as part of the partnership deal with Golden Boy Promotions. Bell time for the PPV broadcast is 9:00pm ET/6:00pm PT.

 

 

FITE will stream the trilogy fight on its platform, live on digital pay per view to a worldwide audience of viewers. Pre-orders are available now on the www.FITE.TV website, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channel on Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis.

 

 

Two of the most recognizable names in UFC and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) history, Liddell and Ortiz enter the cage on Thanksgiving weekend in what’s expected to be a throwback fight to the golden age of MMA. The fight takes place under Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions banner.

 

 

Main card details for the pay per view stream have been announced. The six-fight main card features UFC veterans Gleison Tibau (33-14) vs. Efrain Escudero (30-13) in a Catchweight bout and UFC veteran Tom Lawlor taking on prospect Deron Winn in a light heavyweight bout.

 

 

Main Card Lineup / Pay Per View Stream

 

 

Light Heavyweight:

Chuck LIDDELL (21—8) vs. Tito ORTIZ (19-12-1)

 

 

Light Heavyweight:

Deron WINN (4-0) vs. Tom LAWLOR (10-6)

 

 

 

Light Heavyweight:

Kenneth BERGH (4-1) vs. Jorge GONZALEZ (14-4)

 

 

Catchweight:

Gleison TIBAU (29-14) vs. Efrain ESCUDERO (28-13)

 

 

Bantamweight:

Walel WATSON (13-11) vs. Ricardo PALACIOS (10-1)

 

 

Heavyweight:

Jay SILVA (10-9) vs. Oscar COTA (8-1)

 

 

The resumes of Liddell and Ortiz speak for themselves as both fought the most important fighters of their era. The two first fought in the UFC cage in 2004 after months of trash talk in which Liddell said he always dominated Ortiz in sparring during their past training sessions together. Liddell won the fight in spectacular fashion via KO, but the grudge was far from over. In 2006 the two faced off again with Ortiz vowing he would even the score. Ortiz fared much better in the second encounter but again succumbed to Liddell via referee stoppage TKO.

 

 

Tito Ortiz returns to the cage after a submission win over Chael Sonnen back in January 2017 to fight for redemption against his longtime rival Chuck Liddell. Liddell, coming out of retirement, is fighting to make it a perfect 3-0 over the “The Huntington Beach Bad Boy” and to close the door on a feud that has spanned more than a decade. With a rivalry this intense and emotions still running high, this trilogy fight has fighters and fans from multiple generations excited to see the final chapter of one of the biggest rivalries of all time!

 

 

To order and watch the fight, please visit

https://www.fite.tv/watch/chuck-liddell-vs-tito-ortiz-3/2obij/

THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE MEXICO’S INDEPENDENCE DAY THAN TO HAVE TWO MEXICANS DO BATTLE; ROBERTO GARCIA CALLS OUT JAIME MUNGUIA—“LET’S GET IT ON”

Dkp 

Deerfield Beach, FL (July 25, 2018)—Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin’s rematch is all set for Mexican Independence Day on September 15th in Las Vegas, but what better way to add a little war to the card than having two Mexicans do battle.

 

 

 

Roberto Garcia just witnessed Jaime Munguia’s unanimous decision over Liam Smith on Saturday night and if Munguia is ready to return to the ring on September 15th, Garcia is ready as well.

 

 

 

“What better way to celebrate Mexican Independence Day than to have two Mexican’s do battle,” said Garcia.  “We are both warriors.  One veteran taking on one youngster.  We both come to fight.  Let’s get it on.”

 

 

 

Garcia is thankful to Zanfer Promotions (Munguia’s co-promoter with Golden Boy) for giving him his career defining fight against Julio Cesar Chavez’s son, Omar Chavez.

 

 

Garcia won that fight on Aug. 12, 2017 in a 10-round unanimous decision to win the WBC Silver Middleweight title.

 

 

 

Garcia lost his title in his first defense after traveling to England and losing a unanimous 12-round decision to Martin Murray on June 23, 2018.

 

 

“Two warriors doing battle, “Thunder vs Lightning” , both fighters coming forward all night , I’ll KO the “Kid”  somewhere late in the fight or I win by unanimous decision.”

 

 

 

No doubt the fight would be epic.

 

FNU Combat Sports Show: July 5th, 2018

This week on the FNU Combat Sports Show, Tom, Tony and Rich look back at Bellator 201, a new candidate for “Round of the Year” in the Zappavigna/Saucedo fight, Golden Boy making moves in boxing and MMA, and the increasing push by streaming services to drain away the PPV dollar from sports fans. We start off discussing concussion symptoms that led to the withdrawal of Max Holloway from the co-main event of UFC 226 this week.

 

Of course we also preview a huge weekend for the UFC with The TUF Finale tonight and the long-awaited UFC 226 main event of Stipe Miocic putting his heavyweight belt on the line against Light Heavyweight Champion Daniel Cormier.

 

Listen to the full broadcast at the link below:

 

https://www.dropbox.com/s/pckwutknd1wvbm9/july5fnuradioshow.mp3?dl=0

Gary Russell Jr. vs. Joseph Diaz Jr. Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
Featherweight World Champion Russell Jr. Battles Unbeaten Challenger Diaz Jr. Saturday, May 19 Live on SHOWTIME
From MGM National Harbor in Maryland
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD. (May 17, 2018) – WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. and unbeaten top contender Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference two days before they enter the ring May 19 live on SHOWTIME (10:05 p.m. ET/PT) in the main event from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

 

 

 

The battle between the 2008 U.S. Olympian Russell Jr. and the 2012 U.S. Olympian Diaz Jr. is part of a split-site SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast that will feature WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson defending his title against two-division world champion Badou Jack in a main event from Toronto.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Golden Boy Promotions, are on sale now and are available by visitinghttp://mgmnationalharbor.com/.

 

 

 

Both fighters were joined on stage by their fathers who also train them, with Gary Russell Sr. and Joseph Diaz Sr. sitting by their sons ahead of Saturday’s matchup. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from MGM National Harbor:

 

 

 

GARY RUSSELL JR.

 

 

 

“We’re 120 percent ready for fight night. We’re hungry. As long as I have this strap, nobody is walking in here and taking it. I know Diaz is going to bring his best to the table, but we’re ready. The strap is staying at home.

 

 

 

“Me and my little brothers Gary Antuanne and Gary Antonio are on the undercard and they’re going to show the work they’ve been doing. Our dad’s birthday is the day after the fight so you know we have to make it special for him.

 

 

 

“It’s cool that both me and ‘JoJo’ are trained by our fathers. Because at the end of the day, when you look at your coach, that’s your last line of defense. When everything else goes wrong, you have to go the corner. You have to have a level of trust and belief in your corner, so who better to have than a parent there?

 

 

 

“It’s difficult for me to know if ‘JoJo’ is my toughest opponent since Vasyl Lomachenko because I never train with a lot of worry about my opponents. I think that the biggest thing is preparing myself to the best of my ability and being the best that I can possibly be.

 

 

 

“I believe in my ability to make the necessary adjustments, no matter what my opponent brings to the ring. If he wants to come in and box, we are equally as comfortable boxing long ranged as we are making the fight rugged. In order to be great at anything, you have to have a level of versatility. That’s something I bring to the table that a lot of fighters don’t bring.

 

 

 

“Diaz worked his way up the ranks to get this fight. He did everything you have to do to get in position to fight for a world title. He’s already mentioned that I’m the best fighter in the division and he knows that all the other champions in the division are afraid to step up and compete against me.

 

 

 

“Any fighter who has two months or more to prepare for one opponent is definitely dangerous. We never overlook anyone. I believe in my hand speed, my punching power, my ring generalship and in my ability to make adjustments.

 

 

 

“If we can get through this bout, I would love to get in the ring and unify with any of the other featherweight champions. The timing is perfect right now for any of these unification fights. If they still don’t want it, I’m willing to move up in weight to meet any of the guys who have a name. It’s time to make it happen.

 

 

 

“I take my hat off to him and to his team for having the guts to step into the ring. There are only certain people who can be made for this sport and it speaks volumes about him as an individual. I don’t expect anything less than a worthy opponent.

 

 

 

“It’s a pleasure being here for this fight right near my hometown. We had a very long training camp and everything is feeling good heading into the fight.”

 

 

 

JOSEPH DIAZ JR.

 

 

 

“It’s right here and around the corner. I’m very excited for the moment to be here. I’ve been waiting for this my whole entire life and I’m not going to take anything for granted. I trained extremely hard for this fight.

 

 

 

“I absolutely think Gary is overlooking me. I think he underestimated me. I’ve trained for this my whole entire life. This opportunity has been presented to me by my hard work and it’s really the opportunity of a lifetime. I can’t wait to show everybody my skills and what I’m truly about.

 

 

 

“It’s all about timing. Gary has the fastest hands in boxing but we’ve watched a lot of tape and we see a lot of flaws. Every fighter has flaws. We’re just going to capitalize on what we see and take full advantage on Saturday night.

 

 

 

“I don’t think Gary having not fought since last year will be any kind of advantage. I want Gary Russell Jr. to be at his best come fight night. I know that I’m at my best and the best man should win on fight night. There shouldn’t be any excuses after this fight and after I win the title.

 

 

 

“I believe after I win this title on Saturday night that I’ll be on top of the throne in the featherweight division. Hopefully I can get some big fights soon after that.

 

 

 

“I’m prepared for everything he’s going to offer. He’s going to come out and box a little bit and look to use his jab, create angles and use his speed to keep me out of range. It’s going to come to the point where he’s not going to want to move as much and he’ll starting fighting on the inside. That’s where I want to be. We’re going to deliver some great blows and may the best man win.

 

 

 

“I know what Gary Russell Jr. brings to the table. I know he’s the toughest fighter in the division but I’m ready to go out there and bring back the WBC title. I’m ready to fight the best and unify all the titles.

 

 

 

“It’s going to be fireworks on Saturday night. I’ve had a perfect training camp and I’m on weight. Everything feels great and I can’t wait to step into the ring.

 

 

 

“I’m ready for anything. If it stops early or goes the distance, I’m going to keep pushing each round more than the last.

 

 

 

“It would mean everything to win this world title. Not just for myself, but for my whole family. All the hard work and struggles that we’ve been through, it’s finally here. I’m going to do everything I can to come out victorious. Our lives are going to change and I’m going to inspire the youth and the people around me. I want people to know that if you put your mind to it, anything is possible.”

 

 

 

GARY RUSSELL SR., Russell’s Father & Trainer

 

 

 

“The reason for the inactivity is just politics. We always have the intention on fighting but we want to find the best opponent for Gary. ‘JoJo’ is the mandatory so we’re going to fight him and after we get this win, we’re looking at Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Carl Frampton. We want to unify.

 

 

 

“Before Gary retires from the sport, he’ll move up and do whatever it takes to get a rematch with Lomachenko.

 

 

 

“We like to say that this is just Gary’s occupation. He gets paid to fight and he’s able to support his family because of that. All of the accolades don’t really mean anything to him or to us. The WBC belt is definitely the most prestigious, but like Gary said, we’re not really into the little trinkets. He would take it to the pawn shop if he could. We’re not really into those type of accolades. We just want to conduct ourselves as gentlemen, set an example and get paid.”

 

 

 

JOSEPH DIAZ SR., Diaz’s Father & Trainer

 

 

 

“It’s a blessing to be in this position. I really believe that god didn’t bring us this far only to bring us this far. I really think the journey is going to continue. I’m very proud of my son. He has worked really hard and has shown a lot of will and determination. It means the world to me that he’s pursuing his career and is doing something that he loves doing.

 

 

 

 

“It’s exciting to finally have a fight on the east coast. It’s beautiful out here. Joseph has been wanting to fight out here and now he has that opportunity to meet some of the fans he has out here that he hasn’t had the chance to meet.

 

 

 

“Russell Jr. is a fast fighter. He’s skilled and he’s smart in there. We’ve been working on Joseph’s timing. Joseph’s a little deceiving because he kind of moves a little slow but he’s actually much faster than people think he is. The speed of Russell doesn’t affect us at all. Joseph has sparred and fought fast fighters especially in the amateurs.

 

 

 

“The plan is to go in there and beat Gary Russell up. And we’re hoping this win sets up bigger and better fights with the Santa Cruz and the Selby’s of the world. All of the champions. We’re hoping to get some of those opportunities because it will bring a lot of attention to the boxing world. Joseph will be a very good ambassador for the sport of boxing.”

 

 

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Events Programming, Showtime Network Inc.

 

 

 

“We’re thrilled to be here at MGM National Harbor. MGM is an incredible brand that means a lot in boxing. It is a brand that is known throughout the sport at the highest level and we appreciate the entire MGM organization and their support for the sport.

 

 

 

“Gary Russell Jr. vs. ‘JoJo’ Diaz which is an outstanding matchup. Gary is without questions one of the most skilled-if not the most skilled fighter in any division. He’s known for having the fastest hands in the sport. ‘JoJo’ Diaz is a young rising star who I’ve known personally since he turned pro. These are two action fighters. They’re fan-friendly fighters who will deliver an action packed night.

 

 

 

“It’s been an interesting couple of weeks in boxing. A lot of announcements, new ventures and big promises. But here at SHOWTIME we just keep doing what we’ve been doing, and what we’ve been doing is delivering the best fighters, the biggest fights, week after week and month after month.

 

 

 

“SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is the home of more world champions and more world championship fights than anywhere on any other network. Speaking of title fights, we’re going to have three of them, from three different countries. At 5 p.m. ETstreaming on the SHOWTIME Facebook and Social Media platforms, we have IBF Featherweight Champion Lee Selby against challenger Josh Warrington. At 10:05 p.m. ET, we will have Russell Jr. vs. Diaz Jr. for the WBC Featherweight title, and immediately following that we’ll take you to Toronto for a light heavyweight world title fight between Adonis Stevenson and Badou Jack.

 

 

 

“All six of these fighters competing in Saturday’s world title fights are ranked in the top 10 of their division and have a combined record of 157 wins with only four losses.”

 

 

 

PETE BRASCIASenior VP of Marketing & Operations, MGM National Harbor

 

 

 

“We’re very excited to welcome these fighters and everyone involved in this event, back to MGM National Harbor. One year ago I was on a similar stage as we prepared for Gary Russell Jr. to defend his world title, and he did not disappoint his fans.

 

 

 

“The fans here in Prince George’s County and the whole region love a good show and a good fight. They love it even more when they can root on their hometown hero. Saturday night, will be no different.

 

 

 

“This will be an incredible show between Gary Russell Jr. and the undefeated Olympian ‘JoJo’ Diaz. I’m hoping for good weather Saturday night, but I’m certain we’re going to get a good show.”

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, , @MrGaryRussellJr, @JosephDiazJr, @TGBPromotions, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @MGMNatlHarbor and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.Facebook.com/MGMNationalHarbor. The event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

FNU Combat Sports Show: Fight Recaps, Bellator and UFC Previews, Chuck vs. Tito 3?

Tom, Tony and Rich recap last week’s boxing action, including the quick KO of Vanes Martirosyan by Gennady Golovkin. We also look ahead to Ryan Bader vs. King Mo Lawal in the Bellator Heavyweight Tournament. Additionally, Raquel Pennington takes on Amanda Nunes at UFC 224, and Pennington will likely have to win by knockout to get the belt in the Brazilian backyard of Nunes. We also chat about the week’s major news stories in combat sports, namely Chuck Liddell wanting a rematch with Tito Ortiz and Oscar De La Hoya promising to promote the fight in a new MMA venture for the boxing legend and promotional kingpin. Recently, after our broadcast Thursday night, Tito and Chuck moved much closer to that trilogy fight with Tito announcing he is coming out of retirement for the bout. Listen to the whole show by clicking on the link below.

 

https://www.dropbox.com/s/to7cvpsxpajkvot/fnucombatsportsmay92018.mp3?dl=0