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Results from “Rumble at the Rock III” at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla.

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WBO #2 Espinoza Annihilates Vargas in Two Brutal Rounds

 

Mexico’s Ricardo “Hindu” Espinoza (21-2, 18 KOs) made the most of his Telemundo appearance in the main event of “Rumble at the Rock III,” tonight (Friday, Nov. 30), at Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., by destroying previously undefeated Yeison Vargas (17-1, 12 KOs) of Colombia in two rounds

 

 

 

After an uneventful first round, Espinoza impressively opened up and dropped Vargas three times in the second. In the process, Espinoza, the streaking WBO #2 contender, picked up a TKO 2 and the WBO Latino Bantamweight Championship. Having never left his homeland for a fight before, Vargas seemed unprepared for the brutal power of Espinoza’s hooks and right hands. The time was 1:19.

 

 

 

In the 10-round welterweight co-main event, Puerto Rican prospect Derrieck Cuevas (19-0-1, 14 KOs) scored an impressive unanimous 10-round decision over Miami via Barranquilla, Colombia veteran Breidis “Khanqueror” Prescott (31-15, 22 KOs).

 

 

 

Cuevas is a wicked puncher. Prescott was down in round one from a thudding left hook and was saved by the bell from a quick KO loss. What followed over the next nine rounds was a clinic from the surprisingly elusive 24-year-old Cuevas on hitting, hard, and not getting hit back.

 

 

 

Always a warrior, the battle-proven Prescott tried for the entire fight, but simply couldn’t reach Cuevas with anything consequential. Cuevas looks to have the goods to continue to climb the 147-lb ladder into contender status. The scores were not announced.

 

 

 

Popular Miami light heavyweight Ulysses Diaz (7-0, 6 KOs) was too much for Sonora, Mexico’s Fabian Valdez (3-5), as he stopped him in two rounds of a scheduled four. “The Monster” Diaz, a serious crowd favorite in South Florida, clubbed Valdez with his trademarked sledgehammers, sending the hapless Mexican reeling around the ring until the slaughter was mercifully waved off at 49 seconds. Valdez was down from a body shot in round one.

 

 

 

Miami lightweight Manuel Correa (3-0, 2 KOs) pounded out a brutal unanimous (40-36 x 3) four-round decision over Dustin Arnold (6-2, 1 KOs) of Coral Springs, Florida.

 

 

 

Lacking the power to get the relentlessly energized fists of Correa away from him, Arnold did well to survive the onslaught. His face didn’t feel so lucky though, as he was reduced to a bloody mask during the carnage. Correa is a pitbull worth having another look at. The normally capable Arnold will have to improve his power to compete with savagery of the type that fighters like Correa can generate.

 

 

 

Miami welterweight Livan Navarro (10-0, 6 KOs) scored an entertaining fourth-round knockout (54 seconds) over Colombian veteran Wilfrido Buelvas (19-11, 13 KOs). The pair of sluggers traded free-swinging haymakers throughout. Buelvas even looked to have hurt Navarro in the second, but, eventually, Navarro’s superior power took over and that was it for the Colombian from Barranquilla.

 

 

 

Buelvas went down twice in round three and twice more in round four, the final time for the full 10 count.

 

 

 

In an eight-round super featherweight bout, former top-ranked veteran Mike “Machine Gun” Oliver (26-10-1, 8 KOs) of Hartford showed the ravages of time, as he flopped twice and quit in the first round against Miami’s undefeated featherweight Hairon “El Maja” Socarras (20-0-3, 12 KOs). What would have been an entertaining scrap a few years ago was more of a sad exhibition as Oliver dropped from the two punches he caught and elected to quit after the second “knockdown.” The time was 50 seconds.

 

 

 

All-action Miami featherweight Jessy Cruz (15-7-1, 6 KOs) continued his winning streak with a four-round beatdown of Mexican veteran Isaias Martin Cardona (25-15, 17 KOs). Cardona, a showboating type, was down in round, one, three and four. After the fourth, saner heads prevailed, and he was prevented from coming out for the fifth. The official verdict was a TKO 5 (0:01).

 

 

 

Miami via Cuba’s hard-punching super middleweight Irosvani Duvergel (5-0, 3 KOs) stayed undefeated by making quick work of Miami’s Yendris Rodriguez Valdez (2-3, 2 KOs) by way of TKO 1 (1:46). The exciting Cuban was too strong for Valdez and after going down from a right hand, Valdez’s corner signaled their man’s surrender.

 

 

 

A four-round featherweight contest ended early when Puerto Rico’s Luis “Chucho” Melendez (3-1, 2 KOs) scored a TKO 2 (2:13) over debuting local Jonathan Conde. After a routine first round, Melendez had Conde down three times, the first with a counter left hook and then twice more with big right hands.

 

 

 

In the four-round heavyweight opener between two Miami-based sluggers, Hector “Ready for War” Hodge (3-3, 1 KO) spoiled the pro debut of Jairus Gladney (0-1) by knockout at 1:43 of round two. The pair of big men traded wild shots until Hodge found pay dirt with a southpaw left hand, dropping Gladney. Gladney rose but was in no condition and another roundhouse left finished things.

 

 

 

“Rumble at the Rock III” was presented by Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory, in association with Tuto Zabala of All Star Boxing.

 

 

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Undercard Finalized for “Rumble at the Rock III” this Friday, Nov. 30, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla.

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Main and Co-Main Events to be Featured Live on Boxeo Telemundo

The undercard has been finalized for “Rumble at the Rock III,” this Friday, Nov. 30, at Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla.

 

 

 

Promoter Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory, in association with Tuto Zabala of All Star Boxing, have put together an exciting night of boxing, featuring Colombian Bantamweight Champion Yeison Vargas (17-0, 12 KOs) of Cartagena, Colombia taking on WBO Latino Bantamweight Champion Ricardo Espinoza (21-2, 18 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the WBO-NABO Championship.

 

 

 

In the 10-round welterweight co-main event, Derrieck Cuevas (18-0-1, 14 KOs) of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, will face well-known Miami via Barranquilla, Colombia, veteran Breidis “Khanqueror” Prescott (31-14, 22 KOs).

 

 

 

Tickets for “Rumble at the Rock III” cost $60, $100, $150, $250 and $500 VIP and are available through ticketmaster.com. The live Boxeo Telemundo telecast on Telemundo starts at 11:30 p.m. EST.

 

 

 

In support of the televised action will be an eight-fight undercard, featuring several of the area’s most promising fighters.

 

 

 

In an eight-round super featherweight battle, Miami’s undefeated Hairon “El Maja” Socarras (19-0-3, 12 KOs) will take on former top-ranked veteran Mike “Machine Gun” Oliver (26-9-1, 8 KOs) of Hartford, Conn.

 

 

 

Also on the undercard is Miami heavyweight Jairus Gladney who will make his pro debut in a four-rounder against Miami’s Hector Hodge (2-3).

 

 

 

In a four-round light heavyweight scrap, Miami’s Ulysses Diaz (6-0, 5 KOs) will face Sonora, Mexico’s Fabian Valdez (3-4).

 

 

 

Undefeated super middleweight Irosvani Duvergel (4-0, 2 KOs) of Miami via Cuba, will fight six rounds against Miami’s Yendris Rodriguez Valdez (2-3, 2 KOs).

 

 

 

A featherweight six-rounder will pit Miami’s all-action Jessy Cruz (14-7-1, 6 KOs) against Mexican veteran Isaias Martin Cardona (25-14, 17 KOs).

 

 

 

Lightweights Dustin Arnold (6-1, 1 KOs) of Coral Springs and Miami’s Manuel Correa (2-0, 2 KOs) will go six rounds or less.

 

 

 

In the night’s opening bout, two Miami-based featherweights, Luis Melendez (2-1, 2 KOs) and Jonathan Conde (pro debut), will go four rounds.

 

 

 

On fight night, the Hard Rock Event Center doors open at 6 p.m., and the action starts at 7 p.m. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is located at 1 Seminole Way in Hollywood, Fla.

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Vargas Having His Best Training Camp Ever, Preparing to Face Espinoza at “Rumble at the Rock III” on Friday, Nov. 30, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. and Live on Boxeo Telemundo 

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Colombian bantamweight Yeison “El Mulo” Vargas will be experiencing a number of career firsts in the Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, and live on Boxeo Telemundo, on Friday, November 30.

 

 

 

That’s when Cartagena’s undefeated Vargas (17-0, 12 KOs) will face Mexico’s Ricardo Espinoza (21-2, 18 KOs) for the WBO-NABO Championship in the 10-round main event of promoter Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory’s (in association with All Star Boxing) “Rumble at the Rock III” event.

 

 

 

In the first important crossroads fight of his three-year career, Vargas be fighting for the first time outside his homeland, and also having his first fight under The Heavyweight Factory promotional banner.

 

 

 

To prepare, Vargas has spent training camp working with well-known Florida-based trainer Herman Caicedo in Miami. “This is the best training camp I’ve ever had,” said Vargas. “I’m learning so many new skills and different techniques from Herman. I feel so good, I can’t wait to hear the bell ring.”

 

 

 

28-year-old Vargas, the current Colombian Champion, says he’s ready for a gritty battle if that’s what it takes against Espinoza, the WBO Latino Bantamweight Champion. “I know he’s a good fighter and that he won’t lay down. He will be there to win too, and I need to be impressive in beating him. I also know he’s a big puncher. That’s what I like to hear. We can go to war.”

 

 

 

Vargas says he hooked up with the Hollywood, Florida-based Heavyweight Factory through his manager Angel Villegas and is hoping to start cultivating a fan-base in Florida, and because of the TV exposure, North America.

 

 

 

“This is my most important fight yet,” said Vargas. “Winning this fight means climbing the ladder in the United States. That’s been my dream since I started boxing. I want the fans to know I’m going to put on an exciting performance for them, so they remember my name.”

 

 

 

In the 10-round welterweight co-main event, Derrieck Cuevas (18-0-1, 14 KOs) of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, will face well-known Miami via Barranquilla, Colombia, veteran Breidis “Khanqueror” Prescott (31-14, 22 KOs).

 

 

 

Tickets cost $500, $200, $150 and $100. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com, www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Explore the new Hard Rock Event Center with a 360-degree virtual seat map of the venue at www.myhrl.com. Doors open one hour prior to show start time. Additional fees may apply.

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

Team Pennsylvania Defeats Team New Jersey in Inaugural MMA Pro League Fight Card at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

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Click HERE for Photos from Mike Dorsi/MMA Pro League

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 16, 2018) – The newest entity in MMA, MMA Pro League, launched Saturday as Team Pennsylvania led by head coach Daniel Gracie defeated Team New Jersey led by head coach Dan Miller by a score of 14 – 6 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and on FloCombat.com.

 

 

 

In the opening bout on FloCombat.com, Joseph Penafiel of Team Pennsylvania defeated Turpal Khamzayev of Team New Jersey by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28), securing three points for Team Pennsylvania.

 

 

“Getting that first win for my team meant everything,” said Penafiel. “I wanted to set the tone for my team and let everyone know we’re here to bang. I knew (Khamzayev) was tough, but I’m way too much for him. Even when he tried to strike me I was able to stay comfortable. And in the grappling department I don’t think many people can mess with me.”

 

 

 

The second official team bout saw Cody Hier of Team Pennsylvania secure a TKO victory over Gabriel Ruiz of Team New Jersey 3:43 into round two and earning Team Pennsylvania five more points, expanding their lead 8 – 0.

 

 

 

“I finally feel like I’m hitting my rhythm in the cage,” said Hier. “I did everything that I could to help Team Pennsylvania get the win tonight. I could tell Ruiz was out and he was quitting. When I hit him with that first big ground and pound, I felt how well I tagged him. And then when he tried to go to his side that’s when I really got aggressive and finished him.”

 

 

 

In the third fight, Team New Jersey’s Claudio Ledesma won by unanimous decision (29-27, 30-27, 30-27) over Andre Bernardo of Team Pennsylvania, earning Team New Jersey their first three points and tightening the team contest 8 – 3.

 

 

 

“I was glad to do my part for my team,” said Ledesma. “I’m a little mad that I wasn’t able to stop him, though. I hit him with everything but the kitchen sink, but I just couldn’t finish him. After the second round, once I realized that I probably wasn’t going to finish (Bernardo), I knew my main goal was to just secure the win and that’s what I did.”

 

 

 

The fourth official contest of the night featured a unanimous decision (29-27, 29-27, 29-27) victory by Zedekiah Montanez of Team Pennsylvania over Mike Pagano of Team New Jersey, capturing three more points for Team Pennsylvania and growing the lead 11 – 3.

 

 

 

“It felt great to get the win. I was just trying to listen to my coach and my teammates,” said Montanez. “I also had my son right there watching me tonight. He helps remind me what I do this for. But tonight, I was happy to get this experience under my belt and get the win for my team.”

 

 

 

In the evening’s fifth bout, Team Pennsylvania’s Rafael Celestino defeated Team New Jersey’s Emmanuel Walo by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28). With Celestino’s win, Team Pennsylvania collected three more points, widening the score 14 – 3, and officially securing Team Pennsylvania victory.

 

 

 

“I’m very happy with my win and to be able to help my team earn the victory tonight,” said Celestino. “Walo is a very tough opponent and he came to fight tonight, but I did enough to get the win and am happy with my performance.”

 

 

 

The sixth and final official contest showcased an exhilarating finale as Kevin Sears of Team New Jersey scored a unanimous decision (29-28, 29-27, 29-27) over Ahmed Samir of Team Pennsylvania, making the final team score 14 – 6 in favor of Team Pennsylvania.

 

 

 

“I went in there and fought for my team, but I was also fighting for my daughter and my family,” said Sears. “I’m doing this to make my daughter’s life better. She helps push me and drives me to fight. Samir had me shook in the first round, and then again in the second, but I just dug deep and did what I needed to get this win.”

 

 

 

“The way we won showed me a lot about my team,” said coach Gracie. “We won decisively and showed the type of performance that I’ve come to expect from my guys.

 

 

 

“MMA needs innovation and something new to excite the fans and help bring the masses to our sport,” added Gracie. “I think MMA Pro League and this team concept is exactly what will help bring that added attention and take this sport to the next level.”

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague,Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie,Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.

 

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

MMA PRO LEAGUE MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Inaugural Event This Saturday, September 15 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City & Streaming Live on FloCombat.com
 
Head Coach Dan Miller Leads Team New Jersey Against
Head Coach Daniel Gracie & Team Pennsylvania
 
Click HERE for Photos from MMA Pro League

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 13, 2018) – As fight night approaches for the inaugural MMA Pro League event, fighters from head coach Dan Miller’s Team New Jersey and head coach Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania participated in media workouts Thursday at Hard Rock Live in Atlantic City.

The newest entity in MMA kicks off this Saturday, September 15 at the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City in bouts streaming live on FloCombat.com (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” are available at Ticketmaster.com.

The full bout sheet is available HERE. Here is what the fighters in attendance and league executives had to say Thursday:

DAN MILLER, Head Coach of Team New Jersey

“It means a lot to be coach for Team New Jersey. It’s my home state and it’s a big event for it. I love the team concept and I’m proud to be in this position.

“We’re here representing the whole state. We’ve had the team training together and building camaraderie. It’s like a wrestling match style where each team is sending people out.

“Everybody looks good and healthy in training camp. I think we’re ready to go. All of these fights are going to be fantastic. These are matched very well and it should be a fun night. Team Pennsylvania better be ready, because our guys are.”

DANIEL GRACIE, Head Coach of Team Pennsylvania

“Everything in training has been perfect. I’ve been working with most of these guys for a long time already so we just kept up what we’ve been working on. With the team concept we have a lot more people to focus on instead of just one or two. We already had good chemistry though, so everything went smoothly.

“Our amateur guys turning pro are going to show that they belong in these fights. It’s time to grab the spotlight. Your first fight is the best opportunity to make an impression.

“I think that MMA needs something new that can draw people’s attention. This is a great chance to bring in the fans who don’t pay attention to MMA and give them a chance to get behind their local teams.”

HANI DARWISH, CEO of MMA Pro League

“Fans should expect something completely different than they’re used to. MMA has always been a team sport and I’m glad we’re going to be the ones to expose that to the world. These guys have always trained with a team, because you can’t train by yourself.

“We believe this is going to be the new era of MMA. We’re going to give cities and states all around the world the chance to really stand behind their own teams.

“There’s been a lot of hard work and strategic planning leading to this and it’s finally coming to fruition. It’s a vision that we implemented and once we got the right people we knew it was a theme we believed in so much that we decided to execute.”

MARK TAFFET, President of MMA Pro League

“We’re going to create a legacy in this sport that is going to last for generations to come. I had the privilege of launching HBO PPV 30 years ago and I saw a lot of history be made. Now I have the chance to do it again, along with my partner Hani Darwish.

“My first fight at HBO PPV was right here in Atlantic City for Evander Holyfield vs. George Foreman. It’s very significant for me to be back here in Atlantic City at the brand new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to have a chance to create another chapter of great moments.

“One of the most important things to MMA Pro League is to have the right coaches leading the teams. Dan Miller and Daniel Gracie are both natural leaders, mentors, great former fighters and great teachers. They represent everything we want to represent with MMA Pro League.”

MARK KOLKER (NJ) vs. ZULKARNAIYN KAMCHYBEKOV (PA) – Middleweights

Kolker: “This is really exciting and I’m very thankful for the opportunity. We’re doing something different than anyone else is doing and I think it can be something special.

“I know that I have an opponent who can wrestle and who’s undefeated as an amateur. I feel like I have the tools to beat him. I can catch, slip and put him away with something early. Or if he wants to go the distance we can do that too. I predict I knock him out.”

Kamchybekov: “This is my first pro fight and I’m very happy to have the opportunity. I don’t know too much about my opponent but I will be prepared. I have worked very hard and I’m going to show my wrestling and striking to get this win.”

GABRIEL RUIZ (NJ) vs. CODY HIER (PA) – Featherweights

Ruiz: “It feels good to get back in the cage and feel the adrenaline. I’m hoping to give everyone a great fight.

“I know my opponent is a wrestler so he’s going to try to take me down. He’s not going to want to stand up with me, but I’m prepared for a lot of wrestling. I’m trying to knock him out and go eat a burger.”

Hier: “It’s amazing to be a part of this MMA Pro League venture. It’s such a great opportunity and I’m glad to be on the ground floor.

“My opponent has taken some time off but I know he’s going to be ready to fight. I’m not sleeping on him. This is going to be an action fight.”

CLAUDIO LEDESMA (NJ) vs. ANDRE BERNARDO (PA) – Bantamweights

Ledesma: “It’s awesome to be able to represent New Jersey. I’m so happy to have this opportunity. This has been a great experience so far.

“I don’t know too much about my opponent. I like to focus on what I do and make adjustments when I have to.”

Bernardo: “It’s been a hard road getting to where I am today and I’m grateful to be fighting for MMA Pro League.

“I’m facing a very experienced fighter. He has a black belt in jiu-jitsu and is a well-rounded fighter. He’s still going to have to get in
there and fight me. I know we’re going to go to the ground eventually and I plan to choke him out.”

MIKE PAGANO (NJ) vs. ZEDEKIAH MONTANEZ (PA) – Welterweights

Pagano: “I’m proud to be a part of this first MMA Pro League show. I’m excited to represent my state in the cage.

“My opponent seems very well composed. He likes to sit back and box before looking to throw. Everyone has a plan until you get punched in the face, so I’m going to go out there and just fight.”

Montanez: “It feels really good to be in this position. Fighting professionally has been a dream of mine and now it’s here. I’ve worked so hard to get to this moment and I’m really excited.

“I know that I’m facing a wrestler who likes to put pressure on and come straight forward. We’re prepared for anything he throws at me and I will adapt to anything he throws at me. It’s going to be a war but I just have to go out there and be the best I can be.”

JUSTIN OSBORN (NJ) vs. ANDY JIMENEZ (PA) – Welterweights

Osborn: “I’m excited to go out there and do what I love to do. I can’t wait to get in that cage and stare across at a guy who’s ready to take my head off.

“I know I’m facing an undefeated amateur making his pro debut so I’m ready for anything. I’m ready for the whole nine yards. I’m predicting a finish.”

JOSEPH PINAFIEL (PA) vs. TURPAL KHAMZAYEV (NJ) – Bantamweights

Pinafiel: “It means everything to me to have this platform. This is an opportunity to build upon my career. I’ve had amazing treatment here. I’m going for it all on Saturday.

“I’m facing a tough guy in his own backyard. But I’m here to make a statement. I want to take him out and give everyone a good fight. I’m hoping he brings the best out of me. I am going to win. I’m ready to finish him any way possible.”

KEVIN SEARS (NJ) vs. AHMED SAMIR (PA) – Heavyweights

Sears: “This means a lot to me. I’ve fought in 10 leagues and this has been the best experience by far. MMA Pro League just cares about their fighters.

“Samir looks really tough and I know he has a lot of experience. Everyone is dangerous at this level and it only takes on punch to go to sleep. I’m going to go for the finish right from the start.”

# # #

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague, Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie, Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

Full Lineup Set for MMA Pro League Inaugural Event This Saturday, September 15 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City & Streaming Live on FloCombat.com

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Head Coach Dan Miller Leads Team New Jersey Against
Head Coach Daniel Gracie & Team Pennsylvania

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 11, 2018) – The newest entity in MMA, MMA Pro League, is just days away from their inaugural event with an exciting lineup of fights that pits fighters from Team New Jersey, which is led by head coach Dan Miller of the Miller Brothers, against Team Pennsylvania and their head coach, Daniel Gracie of the renowned Gracie family.

 

 

 

The fighters square-off this Saturday, September 15 at the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City in bouts streaming live on FloCombat.com (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” are available at Ticketmaster.com.

 

 

 

The MMA Pro League event will see Claudio Ledesma taking on Andre Bernardo in a bantamweight fight, Gabriel Ruiz in a featherweight clash against Cody Hier and a light heavyweight contest that pits Emmanuel Walo against Rafael Celestino.

 

 

 

Featherweight action will feature Mike Pagano in a bout against Zedekiah Montanez, plus Kevin Sears takes on Ahmed Samir in a heavyweight attraction and a bantamweight affair that sees Turpal Khamzayev battle Joseph Penafiel.

 

 

 

Rounding out the exciting inaugural night of MMA Pro League fights are Mark Kolker facing Zulkarnaiyn Kamchybekov in a middleweight fight, a lightweight showdown between Shan Cella and Francisco Muniz and a welterweight matchup between Justin Osborn and Andy Jimenez.

 

 

 

Ledesma is a native of West Orange, NJ and currently holds a 14-7 record as a professional fighter. Bernardo is originally from Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil and has a professional record of 8-4.

 

 

 

Ruiz fights out of Woodland Park, NJ with an 0-1 record as a professional fighter and an amateur record of 5-2-1 in the flyweight division. Hier is originally from Daison, MI. He later moved to Philadelphia to train at Gracie Gym. Hier has a record of 1-1 as a professional fighter in the bantamweight division.

 

 

 

Walo was born in Cleveland, OH and spent the first few years of his life there before moving to Liberia at a very young age. Walo eventually returned to the U.S. to join the United States National Guard and was stationed as a guard in an Iraqi prison. While in Iraq, Walo was exposed to mixed martial arts and quickly fell in love with the sport. When Walo returned home, he began training and made his professional debut in December 2010. He has accumulated a professional record of 12-2-1. Celestino is from Brasilia, Brazil and has a 5-2 record as a professional fighter in the Middleweight division.

 

 

 

Pagano, a United States military veteran, is originally from Fayetteville, NC. He later moved to New Jersey to train with Dan Miller’s Miller Brothers MMA. Pagano is also a trainer at the gym and serves as the head instructor for the gym’s Little Spartans youth martial arts and anti-bullying program. He is a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu with an 0-1 record as a professional fighter. Montanez is a mixed martial arts fighter based in Pennsylvania. He has a 3-2 record in the featherweight division.

 

 

 

Originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado, Sears is an eleven-fight MMA veteran who owns seven wins after a strong amateur career. Representing his native Egypt, Samir won his only professional MMA fight by knockout and owns an 11-1 record as a professional boxer.

 

 

 

Bantamweight brawler Khamzayev was born in New Jersey and turned professional in May of this year when he lost his debut. He takes on Orlando’sPenafiel, who won a decision in his professional debut in April.

 

 

 

Kolker will represent New Jersey, but was born and raised in Alabama. He made his professional MMA debut in June 2017 with a decision victory. After amassing an amateur record of 4-0, Kamchybekov will make his his professional MMA debut on Saturday night.

 

 

 

A 23-year-old from New Jersey, Cella will return to action for his second professional MMA fight. Muniz is originally from Caguas, Puerto Rico. His preferred discipline is Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Muniz has fought five times in his native Puerto Rico, attaining a record of 4-1.

 

 

 

Osborn is originally from Tennessee before representing New Jersey. He emerged victorious in his professional debut in August. Fighting out of New York, Jimenez was 3-0 in amateur MMA bouts and will fight for the first time professionally on Saturday’s card.

 

# # #

 

 

 

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague,Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie,Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.

 

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

GET TO KNOW MMA PRO LEAGUE’S TEAM PENNSYLVANIA

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Head Coach Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania Battles
Team New Jersey in MMA Pro League Inaugural Event Saturday, September 15 From Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City & Streaming on FloCombat.com
 
Team Pennsylvania Talks Motivation, Fighting Style & More!
 

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 7, 2018) – As the inaugural fight night approaches for the newest entity in MMA, MMA Pro League, get to know the fighters for head coach Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania before they battle Team New Jersey Saturday, September 15 from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and streaming live on FloCombat.com.

Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” on Saturday, September 15, featuring Team New Jersey vs. Team Pennsylvania, are available at Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania fighters had to say as they prepare to take on head coach Dan Miller’s Team New Jersey:

 

 

ZEDEKIAH MONTANEZ

Weight Class: Featherweight

Hometown: North Philadelphia, PA

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight because it is what I love. There’s no better feeling than the rush of overcoming the uncertainty in a cage or ring with complete faith and belief in your ability.”

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“I always pay my homage to the fighters that led me towards this path. Boxers like Fernando Vargas and Floyd Mayweather. Plus, MMA champions like Connor McGregor, Michael Chandler and more. But I am my own self. I do take a bit of every fighter, shake it up and come out with whatever I’ve been working on.”

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I don’t try to focus on one solid background. I am a mixed martial artist now. I always keep an open mind, and try to dig into all aspects of the game.”

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“I’m excited to be working with MMA Pro League, and by the looks of it, everything is great! They’re a good up-and-coming, humble and respectable organization that’s trying to bring change to the game, and together the sky is the limit for all of us.”

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Pennsylvania?

“The whole experience of being from here. It’s where I was raised. My family and all of my ups and downs happen here.”

 

 

CODY HIER

Weight Class: Bantamweight

Hometown: Davison, MI

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight to give my family the things I never had.”

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“I’m a fan of lots of fighters, but my style is all my own.”

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I have a strong wrestling background that has led to my MMA career.”

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“MMA Pro League is the next big thing and I’m glad to be a part of the ground floor. It’s going to be a great ride.”

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Pennsylvania?

“The sports fans! There’s really nothing like them.”

 

 

JOE PENAFIEL

Weight Class: 130 lb catchweight

Hometown: Orlando, FL

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight for pride, family and money.”

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“Bruce Lee, but I steal from everyone.”

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I practice jeet kune do and have experience wrestling.”

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“Because they’re going to put together challenging fights and they have top-class treatment of their fighters.”

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Pennsylvania?

“I like the ladies and the Philly cheesesteaks.”

 

 

ANDY JIMENEZ

Weight Class: Lightweight

Hometown: Queens, NY

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight because I have a passion for mixed martial arts and I’m a badass.”

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“My favorite MMA fighter is Georges St-Pierre.”

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“My fighting background is jiu jitsu under Renzo Gracie.”

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“MMA Pro League is the right fit for me because I have a versatile background and I would like to portray this within the team structure.”

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Pennsylvania?

“My favorite thing about Pennsylvania is Renzo Gracie PA.”

# # #

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague,Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie,Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.

mixed martial arts, MMA

MMA PRO LEAGUE ANNOUNCES PROMOTIONAL & APPAREL PARTNERS

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Six Promotional Partners On-Board 
Supporting MMA Pro League
 
Jab Apparel Set to Provide Uniforms Ahead of 
Inaugural Event Saturday, September 15 at 
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (August 16, 2018) – The newest entity in MMA and professional team sports, MMA Pro League, has struck an apparel partnership with Jab Apparel, as well as six promotional partners, ahead of their inaugural fight card on Saturday, September 15

at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and streaming live on FloCombat.com.

 

 

 

In addition to Jab Apparel, the companies providing their promotional support for MMA Pro League are Everlast, the preeminent boxing brand since 1910, Select, a U.S.-based premium benefits card company, Everipedia, the world’s largest English encyclopedia by content, Captiv8, a full-service promotional product and marketing agency, the Village Pourhouse a New York City sports bar and cigar company Q Cigar. All promotional partners will also be distributing MMA Pro League video and photo content across their websites and social media platforms.

 

 

 

“We are very encouraged by the breadth of promotional support being provided by this great group of companies who believe in MMA Pro League and our team concept,” said MMA Pro League CEO Hani Darwish. “We are very excited that they are with us at the launch of a new era in MMA.”

 

 

 

“I’d like to thank all of our promotional partners, as well as FloSports and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, for their support of MMA Pro League,” said MMAPL president Mark Taffet. “Their efforts not only enhance our brand but also extend the reach of MMA Pro League to fans across many demographic groups.”

 

 

 

Amongst the many ways that these companies will be engaging fans heading intoSeptember 15 include various discounts and special offers for purchasing tickets through their vendors. Ticket buyers using their Select card will be given significant discounts, while purchasing tickets at a Q Cigar location will net fans free Robusto and Churchill cigars. Fans who buy tickets at Village Pourhouse will receive a free drink with their purchase and be rewarded with a discount meal after the fight.

 

 

 

The Everipedia database will house the biographies of each MMA Pro League fighter and be accessible from the league’s website. Everipedia will also present the “Tale of the Tape” for each fight and service other statistical information.

 

 

 

Jab Apparel, a UK-based company that launched in March, will provide training apparel and fight night uniforms for MMA Pro League teams and employees. Everlast will be the official glove provider of MMA Pro League, while Captiv8 will deliver MMA Pro League promotional items.

 

 

 

These partnerships are on top of the previously announced deals with the beautiful new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, which will host a series of MMA Pro League matches, and FloSports, who will exclusively stream all MMA Pro League team fight action live on their worldwide combat sports site, FloCombat.com.

 

 

 

Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” onSaturday, September 15, featuring Team New Jersey vs. Team Pennsylvania, are available at Ticketmaster.com.

 

# # #

 

 

 

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague,Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie,Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JARRETT HURD UNIFIES THE 154-POUND DIVISION WITH SPLIT DECISION OVER ERISLANDY LARA IN ACTION PACKED FIGHT SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO IN LAS VEGAS

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James DeGale Earns Back IBF Super Middleweight World Championship With Unanimous Decision In Rematch With Caleb Truax

 

 

 

Julian Williams Wins IBF 154-Pound Eliminator with Decision Over Nathaniel Gallimore In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®Opener

 

 

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

 

LAS VEGAS (April 7, 2018) – Jarrett Hurd unified the 154-pound division with a 12-round split-decision victory over Erislandy Lara in an all-action fight Saturday on SHOWTIME before a sold-out crowd of 2,579 at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

 

 

 

 

Hurd (22-0, 15 KOs), who entered as IBF Champion, dethroned WBA Champion in just the seventh unification in division history.  The difference in the Fight of the Year candidate was a short left hook that floored Lara in the final minute of the fight.  Had the 27-year-old Hurd not scored the knockdown, the fight would have been ruled a majority draw.

 

 

 

 

“It was a tough one, but I went out there and did exactly what I said I was going to do – fight all 12 rounds and get the victory,” Hurd said.  “I didn’t feel like that (I needed the knockdown). I feel like I was in control the whole fight, applying the pressure.

 

 

 

 

“I don’t think it had anything to do with age.  I think it was me and the game plan we had to apply the pressure.”

 

 

 

 

Following the thrilling bout, SHOWTIME Sports reporter Jim Gray asked Hurd if he’d like to face WBC 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo, who was ringside, to further unify the division.

 

 

 

 

“’Swift’ isn’t ducking anyone,” Hurd responded.  “I’m No. 1 now.  We’re calling the shots.”

 

 

 

 

Hurd applied relentless pressure from the opening round, pressing forward against the crafty southpaw.  He pounded the body, yet often neglected defense and ate punishing counter shots for 11 rounds.  But the difference for Lara (25-3-2, 14 KOs), who was making the seventh defense of his title, was the brutal 12th round.  With blood seeping from a swollen right eye, Hurd connected on a short left hook that floored Lara for the first time in nearly five years.

 

 

 

 

“Besides the last round, I thought I was winning this fight easily,” Lara said.  “That’s not to decide the fight.  I was winning the fight.  One punch in a fight doesn’t determine the fight.

 

 

 

 

“It was a great fight for the fans. I stood there, fought and it was fun. I thought I clearly won the fight. Once again a decision goes against me, but h​ey we just have to do the rematch.”

 

 

 

 

Entering the fight, Charlo was the consensus No. 1 fighter at 154-pounds.  He stated his case for a chance to unify against Hurd.

 

 

 

 

“I’m down.  Let’s go.  We want that work,” Charlo told SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING host Brian Custer.  “I feel Hurd only took the fight with Lara because he realized the harder fight is with Jermell Charlo.

 

 

 

 

“We’ve been there before with Lara.  I know what he possesses.  Hurd has to get his defense together because he cannot get hit like that by me.   Lara doesn’t move like he used to.  If he moves like he used to he wins that fight.”

 

James DeGale earned back the IBF Super Middleweight World Championship with a unanimous decision in a rematch with Caleb Truax, taking back the title he lost last December in the near-universal upset of the year.

 

 

 

 

The 12-round championship affair was scored 117-110 and 114-113 twice.  DeGale, who was deducted a point in the 10th for pushing, won the championship rounds – 11 and 12 – on all three judges’ scorecards to win the decision.

 

 

 

 

“Two-time world champion.  It feels great,” DeGale said.  “But full credit to Caleb – he shows he can mix it with the top fighters.

 

 

 

 

“I’m just happy that I’m a two time world champion and I got my IBF world title back.  I’m back, Team Chunky, we’re back.  Two-and-a-half years I had it and I lost it to Caleb.  He embarrassed me, but we’re back.”

 

 

 

 

DeGale (24-2-1, 14 KOs) overcame a massive cut from an accidental head butt in the third, which was mistakenly ruled as the result of a punch from referee Robert Byrd.

 

 

 

 

“I couldn’t see from my right eye, DeGale said.  “I like Robert Byrd (referee), but today he was a bit wrong.  I couldn’t see.  But I’m just glad I got through it.  I showed some heart.  In my last fight, I was like a weak little kid.”

 

 

 

 

DeGale connected on 37 percent of his power shots compared to 28 percent for Truax.  He now returns to London a world champion with some massive potential fights in the future.

 

 

 

 

“I want to be busy,” DeGale said.  “I have a couple years left in this sport.”

 

 

 

 

Truax (29-4-2, 18 KOs), who fought for the first time as a world champion, was disappointed and advocated for a rematch after the scores were announced.

 

 

 

 

“I thought I did enough to win the fight, but I also thought I was pretty flat and didn’t get my shots off like I wanted,” Truax said.  “I was just a little bit flat.  I felt really good coming in but I just couldn’t get my shots off like the last fight.  He never hurt me, but it is what it is.

 

 

 

 

“I gave him a rematch straight away so why not do it again.”

 

 

 

 

In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader, Julian Williams scored a career-best win, defeating Nathaniel Gallimore via majority decision in an IBF Junior Middleweight World Title eliminator.  Williams, who edge Gallimore 116-112, 117-110, 114-114, is now in position to challenge Jarrett Hurd.

 

 

 

 

Williams (25-1-1, 15 KOs) set the pace with a strong left jab in the opening rounds of the fight, keeping Gallimore at bay and the action on the outside.  That changed around the fifth round as Williams abandoned the jab and the fight moved to the inside.  Williams had his best round in the 11th, connecting on a massive left hand that set up a barrage of combos that nearly had Gallimore out on his feet.  Gallimore (20-2-1, 17 KOs) survived the round, and Williams wasn’t able the finish him in the 12th, but it was clear Williams deserved the decision.

 

 

 

 

“I wasn’t surprised a judge had a draw,” Williams said.  “Sometimes when you’re fighting real close like that, it is hard for judges to score.  I knew I won. Once I heard 116-112 and 117-111, I knew I won because I knew he didn’t win eight rounds.

 

 

 

 

“He is a strong fighter, but I knew he was going to do what he did. Start strong early, but I knew he wasn’t strong after six rounds.

 

 

 

 

“The hits to the body was all in the game plan. You have to go to the body in a 12 round fight.”

 

 

 

 

Williams connected on 50 percent of his power shots and landed 37 percent of his total shots.

 

 

 

 

 

“I didn’t really think I won the fight,” Gallimore admitted.  “I just let too many early rounds go.  I just gave him too many rounds.  I had him hurt a couple of times, but he was tough. I should have done more combinations. I will look at the fight and review it, and will make adjustments.”

 

 

 

 

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will replay on Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

 

# # #

 

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxingand  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Erislandy Lara vs. Jarrett Hurd Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos for 154-Pound World Title Unification This Saturday, April 7 Live On SHOWTIME® from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas

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“You’ve never been in a big fight. We’ll find out what you have Saturday night. Right now, you’re all talk.” – Erislandy Lara

 

 

 

“I’m going to show you why nobody can survive 12 rounds with Jarrett Hurd. There’s a storm coming.” – Jarrett Hurd

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

LAS VEGAS (April 5, 2018) – World champions Erislandy Lara and Jarrett Hurd went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference for their 154-pound world title unification this Saturday, April 7 live on SHOWTIME® from Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

WBA Champion Lara and IBF Champion Hurd will meet for just the sixth unification bout in division history in a fight that will help define the future of the 154-pound class. The winner of Lara-Hurd will join Hall of Famers Terry Norris, Felix Trinidad, Oscar De La Hoya and Winky Wright, as well as Canelo Alvarez, as the only fighters to unify 154-pound titles.

 

 

 

Thursday’s press conference also featured IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb Truax and former champion James DeGale, who meet in an immediate rematch of what was the near-universal upset of the year in 2017. In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, super welterweight contenders Julian Williams and Nathaniel Gallimore will face off in an IBF 154-pound world title eliminator.

 

 

 

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and available by visiting AXS.com or the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Box Office.

 

 

 

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Vanity Nightclub at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas:

 

 

 

ERISLANDY LARA

 

 

 

“Everyone knows I love to fight his style. I’ve fought better and taller fighters than him and you’ve seen me dominate them. It’s going to be nothing different on Saturday night.

 

 

 

“I want him to come forward. That’s what I’m prepared for. I’m going to give him a lessonon Saturday night.

 

 

 

“I have to give Hurd credit for taking the fight. It’s been hard to get fighters in the ring with me. There’s no need to talk because on Saturday we will find out everything we need to know.

 

 

 

“Everyone here talking from Hurd’s team can’t get in the ring with him. It’s different once you’re in the ring with me. You’ve never been in a big fight. We’ll find out what you have Saturday night. Right now, you’re all talk.

 

 

 

“I’m absolutely ready for this fight. This is going to be a great battle for the fans on SHOWTIME. I’m excited to get in the ring and finally unify the decision. I’m preparing to make history.

 

 

 

“I haven’t watched much video on Hurd, but as we saw from the Trout fight, he’s very hittable. Come Saturday night, he better have worked on some defense or it won’t last very long.

 

 

 

“I don’t want to hear anything about Jermell Charlo, because Jarrett Hurd is the one who stepped up. On Sunday, Charlo can sign the contract and we can get ready to rumble.”

 

 

 

JARRETT HURD

 

 

 

“Lara has been the longest reigning champion and he was on top when I first turned pro. We’ve studied him a lot. I didn’t get into this sport to be anything but number one. Lara is the top guy, but after Saturday night, it’s going to be me.

 

 

 

 

“It’s been a great training camp. We’re well prepared. This is the fight I’ve been asking for. After I beat Tony Harrison, Erislandy Lara had some words on Twitter for me. So I’ve wanted the fight since then. Somebody has to pay for that.

 

 

 

“This fight is coming at the right time for me because my confidence is very high right now. He’s a little older so I’ll be the younger and fresher fighter. I just feel like it’s my time. I’m going to be relentless. I’m not stopping until I get what I want.

 

 

 

“Lara is a veteran with a lot of experience. He knows how to win rounds and he can make you look bad no matter how good you are. I’m going to use my own awkward style and do what I do best.

 

 

 

“With my power and skill set, I can stop any fighter in the division. That definitely includes Erislandy Lara.

 

 

 

“Lara has great discipline in his game plan. No matter if he’s up on the cards or down or anything, he’s not going to switch it up. It’s hard to break a fighter when they’re disciplined like that. We have a plan for everything though and we’re confident that we’ll come up with something that will get us the victory.

 

 

 

“Lara is a guy who can’t take pressure fighters well. I have some of the best pressure in the game. I’m younger, stronger, taller and longer. He’s not going to be able to run for 12 rounds.

 

 

 

“Nobody wanted to fight this guy. I stepped up to the table because I know what I can do. He’s living the ‘American Dream’, but my dream has just begun. Saturday night I’m going to show you why nobody can survive 12 rounds with Jarrett Hurd. There’s a storm coming.”

 

 

 

CALEB TRUAX

 

 

 

“I’m honored to be here with these great fighters and back on SHOWTIME. Training camp was perfect for this fight. This is the longest camp I’ve had in my career and the most focused I’ve been.

 

 

 

“I just want to go out there and silence people who said it was a fluke the first time I won. I want to prove that I belong at the top of the division. I’m going to put on a good show for the fans and retain my title.

 

 

 

“We’ve had four months to prepare for James DeGale. Normally I have six to eight weeks, so it was nice to have a drawn out and specific training camp. We really focused on the conditioning and making sure I’m reaching my peak.

 

 

 

“I’ve been through a lot in this sport. I’ve fought top guys in big fights but it finally came together last December. It meant a lot to me and now I’m prepared to put on an even better performance. I know DeGale is going to be hungry so I have to be ready for him.

 

 

 

“I had a great camp this fight. I knew we were going to have a rematch so I was right back in the gym in a couple of weeks. My trainer put together a great plan to help me improve and prepare for what DeGale is going to improve on. I’ll be ready for him to be 100 percent.

 

 

 

“I just want to get to Saturday night and put on another great performance to retain my belt. I’m going to give it my all to bring that belt back home to Minnesota.”

 

 

JAMES DEGALE

 

 

 

“My last performance was horrendous. It was shocking and embarrassing. I’m not going to make excuses about my shoulder and what went wrong. On Saturday night, I will be a two-time world champion. I promise you that.

 

 

 

“I’ve boxed at the top level my whole life and put on some good performances. I know what was wrong with me and why I performed how I did in the first fight. I’m going to put it to rest when I become a world champion again.

 

 

 

“It’s been a long, difficult training camp. I had a gray cloud above my head the last couple of months, but I’m ready to go become a world champion again on Saturday.

 

 

 

“This time has turned me into a beast. I’ve had to take everything even more seriously than before. I might have gotten a bit complacent being a champion those last few years. I’ve locked myself down and I’m ready to go.

 

 

 

“I would say 90 percent of the loss was because of what I didn’t do. I looked past him. I came back too quick from the injury, but he still had to get in there and take my belt. There’s no disrespect to Caleb, but I’ve fought the very best of the division and come out on top. The real James DeGale will be back on Saturday.

 

 

 

“It’s going to be a dominant performance on Saturday. If I don’t beat Truax and beat him easily I can’t get to the level that I want. I know that’s what is coming. No excuses.”

 

 

 

JULIAN WILLIAMS

 

 

 

“We had a really good camp. I didn’t want to get into the trash talk this camp. He’s a solid fighter and I don’t underestimate anyone. But he seems like a bully. You can’t bully me. He’s obsessed with me on social media. I just have to focus on what he can do as a fighter.

 

 

 

“He’s a nobody who wants some attention. I’m going to give him lots of attention on Saturday night. I’m going to shut this guy up.

 

 

 

“He’s going to lose every single round and probably get stopped late. Every time he gets pushed he loses, gets a draw or gets knocked down. I’m drowning him in deep waters.

 

 

 

“I’m calm right now but also anxious to show everyone what I have. I know I’m a world class fighter, I just have to go do it. I’m making sure I stay patient right now.

 

 

 

“He lost to a journeyman, got a draw with a journeyman and got dropped by a journeyman. There’s nothing else to say. I’m taking him out on Saturday.”

 

 

 

NATHANIEL GALLIMORE

 

 

 

“Saturday night is judgment day and it starts with ‘J-Pebbles’. It’s going to be a night to remember for me.

 

 

 

“It’s going to be a spectacular fight. I’m going to demolish him in grand fashion. He’s never faced anyone like me before. When I touch him, it’s over.

 

 

 

“You better worry about what’s going to happen to you on Saturday night. It’s going to be nasty. This fight is going to show everyone who I am in this division.

 

 

 

“I had the best training camp of my entire career. We covered all the bases. Saturdaynight I’m going to wipe the smile off his face. You think Charlo hits hard? You’re going to see on Saturday night.

 

 

 

“This opportunity is huge. The division is mine for the taking. I study my opponents and I stalk them in the ring. Everyone will see what’s going to happen on Saturday.”

 

 

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

 

 

 

“This is a great card from top to bottom. We have none other than the longest reigning 154-pound world champion, Erislandy Lara, taking on one of the toughest tests of his career in the very exciting, young and hungry world champion Jarrett Hurd.

 

 

 

“The co-main event is another important fight with a rematch featuring Caleb Truax, who will be looking to hold on to the belt he took from James DeGale last year, while DeGale will look to get back to where he was before they met last December.

 

 

 

“The show opens up with a high-octane 154-pound title eliminator with Julian Williams and Nathaniel Gallimore. This is the fight that could really steal the show. The winner of this fight will no doubt have their eye on the winner of Saturday’s main event.

 

 

 

“These are some of the best fights that can be made in each weight class. We can’t wait for everyone to see these fighters put it all on the line on Saturday night.”

 

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