Tag Archives: HBO

Camp Notes/Photos: Bryant Jennings Looking To End Klitschko’s Reign

Photo Credit, Edward Jackson / Team Jennings

 

HOUSTON, TX (April 9, 2015)Gary Shaw Productions undefeated heavyweight contender, Bryant “By-By” Jennings (19-0, 10 KOs), is entering the final weeks of training camp in preparation for his upcoming battle with Wladimir Klitschko (63-3, 53 KOs).  Jennings, who hails from Philadelphia, is looking to end Klitschko’s reign on the heavyweight division.

 

Klitschko vs. Jennings, a 12-round bout for Wladimir’s WBA, WBO, IBF and IBO World heavyweight titles, will take place at “The World’s Most Famous Arena”, Madison Square Garden, on April 25, 2015.  The event will be televised Live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT in the United States and RTL in Germany.

 

On training in Houston, Texas…

“It’s really nice to get away from home and all the distractions that come with training in Philly.  I’m able to focus on nothing but boxing out here in Houston.  I got my whole team out here and were grinding away.”

 

On his upcoming matchup with Wladimir Klitschko…

“This is the top of the mountain when it comes to heavyweight boxing.  You can’t get any higher then fighting Klitschko.  With that being said, I’m ready to end Klitschko’s reign as heavyweight champion.  He’s been defeated before and he can be defeated again.  I’m confident I have the athleticism and skills to come out on top and bring those belts back home to America.”

 

On fighting at Madison Square Garden….

“Everyone knows The Garden is filled with deep roots in boxing history.  I’m looking to make my own history with a victory on April 25th.  This will be my third consecutive fight there and I feel my fan base has grown with each outing.  I’m know Philly will be representing and I’m excited about that.  I’m counting down the days and I’m very grateful to my promoters, Gary Shaw, Antonio Leonard, as well as my managerJames Prince for making this fight a reality.”

 

On the possibility of becoming the next great American heavyweight champion…

“A victory against Klitschko will certainly bring back glory to the American heavyweight.  Klitschko has reigned supreme for so many years, so it will be a huge accomplishment to bring home the titles.  Dethroning Klitschko will open up many doors for my career and I see myself relishing in the moment.”

Presented by K2 Promotions and Klitschko Management Group in association with Gary Shaw Productions, tickets priced at $1000, $600, $300, $200 and $100 can be purchased through the Madison Square Garden Box Office, www.TheGarden.com and www.Ticketmaster.com.

Boxcino 2015 Semi-finals quotes

 

Philadelphia (April 8, 2015)-This Friday night at the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem, the Boxcino 2015 semifinals will take place in both the heavyweight and jr. middleweight divisions.  All eight fighters have been training hard for this great opportunity that will be broadcasted live on ESPN Friday Night Fights beginning at 9 PM ET.
All Boxcino bouts are scheduled for eight rounds.
Below are quotes from all eight competitors as fight week commences.

 

Jr. Middleweights

——————————————————————————————————-
John Thompson (15-1, 5 KO’s)-“Training has been great. Been working really hard in Virginia under Kay Koroma. I am looking forward to both the semifinals and the finals to see what kind of doors open up for me.”

vs.

Stanyslav Skorokhod (9-0, 7 KO’s) –-” I am very confident and have once again had a very good training camp at Wild Card Boxing Gym.  I have done great work with Marvin Somodio, Ernie Zavala, and my conditioning coach Jordan Feramisco! ”

————————————————————————————————-

 

Vito Gasparyan (15-3-5, 8 KO’s)–“Everything is good. I am ready. I have had great sparring with Ruslan Provodnikov and Frankie Gomez. Brandon is my friend. I look at him like my brother but Friday is business. We will get in the ring and do my thing. We have a perfect game plan and ready to do my thing. This time there will be no ring rust”

vs.

Brandon Adams (16-1, 11 KO’s)--“I am looking forward to fight Vito to show him how much I have grown since the last time we worked together. I am looking forward to showing the world that I have learned new tricks. ”
 

Heavyweights

————————————————————————————————————–

Donovan Dennis (11-1, 9 KO’s)--“I am ready and am better shape then my last fight. I am ready to go. I don’t know too much about Razvan other than he is a taller guy. I train for what my coaches tell me to do.”

vs

 

Razvan Cojanu (13-1, 7 KO’s) — “Everything is great. Dennis is a good fighter and I am excited to fight him. I changed some of my training and had a lot of southpaw sparring.”
————————————————————————————————————–

Lenroy Thomas (19-3, 9 KO’s)–“Training is going good.  I am ready to go.  He is a strong opponent.  He is coming to fight and so am I.  It will be an interesting night.”

vs

Andrey Fedosov (26-3, 21 KO’s)--“I am looking forward to April 10th. I will be ready to give the fans another great fight and I am looking forward to the finals!”
————————————————————————————————————-

 

On the undercard, Greg Jackson (5-1-1, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on Curtis Morton (2-4-2) of Harlem, NY in a six-round welterweight bout.

 

Ed Fountain (10-1, 4 KO’s) of St. Louis, MO will battle Jon Bolden (6-10-1, 5 KO’s) of Brooklyn, NY in a six-round heavyweight bout.

 

Eric Newell (7-3-2, 5 KO’s) of Bethlehem, PA will fight Brandon Spencer (2-8-1, 1 KO) of Atlanta, GA in four-round heavyweight bout.

 

Ricky Nuno of Bethlehem, PA will make his pro debut against Pat Kehoe (1-1) of Reading, PA in a four-round welterweight bout.

 

Mike Liberto of Bethlehem, PA will make his pro debut against Darnell Hayes (0-1) of Myerstown, PA in a light heavyweight bout.
This event starts at 7pm.  Ticket prices are $100, $75, $50.  Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com1-800-745-3000 and at the box office at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

For credentials, contact:  Marc Abrams at marc@banner-promotions.com

Follow Banner Promotions on social media for all the latest Banner and #Boxcino2015 updates:

@BannerBoxing #TeamBanner ; @Boxcino2015 #Boxcino

Facebook.com/BannerPromotions; instagram.com/BannerBoxing

THOMAS DULORME ON WEIGHT FOR TERRENCE CRAWFORD SHOWDOWN ADDS NEW MEMBER TO TEAM

 

Photo credit – David Infante @787Films / Team Dulorme

 

PUERTO RICO (April 8, 2015)Gary Shaw Productions top contender, Puerto Rican sensationThomas Dulorme (22-1, 14 KO’s), is just 9 pounds over the weight limit of 140 lbs. for his Saturday, April 18th showdown against “2014 Fighter of the Year” and former lightweight world champion, Terence Crawford (25-0, 17 KOs).

“I’m very happy with everything that is happening in the training camp,” said an excited Thomas Dulorme.  Chef Tom Gonzalez has done a great job with my nutrition. I’m eating good, healthy food and we can see the results in comparison to my recent fights. Since campaigning at 140 pounds, I’ve never been so close to making weight as I am now with less than two weeks to go.  I’m feeling incredibly strong and the food I’m eating has made a tremendous difference in a positive way”.

 

“Dulorme is very focused for this fight and it’s evident with his weight being right where it’s supposed to be at this stage in camp.” said Promoter Gary Shaw. “I’ve been assured from his team that he’s going to be peaking on fight night. I can’t wait to see him shine against Crawford.”

Dulorme Team is composed of Puerto Rican trainers, Anthony Otero, Felix Pagan Pintor and Oscar Seary, better known as Don Khan. The team newest addition is Jose ‘Kike’ Rosa, a former Olympian boxer (Montreal 1976) that as a boxing trainer has worked with former world champion Nelson Dieppa, former world title contender, Wilfredo Rivera, and Esteban Pizarro, among others.

“The addition of ‘Kike’ has been very good for the team because it throws more experience and motivation to all group members,” said Dulorme’s advisor Richy Miranda, president of ADM (Artists Designs Management). “His knowledge have been tested in training, and we guarantee that the group is doing really good. Puerto Rico will have a new world champion who will be representing all the Latinos for long time”.

 

The Crawford vs Dulorme bout will be for the vacant WBO junior welterweight world title on  Saturday, April 18th, at theCollege Park Center located at the  University of Texas, Arlington. The bout will be televised live as part of a split-site doubleheader on  HBO beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Promoted By Top Rank®, in association with Gary Shaw Productions, Foreman Boys Promotions and Tecate, tickets to the Crawford-Dulorme are on sale now.  Priced at $200, $100, $60, $40 and $25, plus applicable fees, tickets can be purchased at College Park Center box office, online atwww.utatickets.com or www.utacollegpark.com or by phone at (817) 272-9595.

 

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com, or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook atfacebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, facebook.com/GaryShawProductions orfacebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo,twitter.com/GaryShawBoxing or twitter.com/hboboxing.  Use the Hashtag #CrawfordDulorme to join the conversation on Twitter.

EXCITING PROSPECTS ADDED TO THE MATTHYSSE VS. PROVODNIKOV NON-TELEVISED UNDERCARD ON APRIL 18

LIVE FROM TURNING STONE CASINO RESORT, VERONA, NEW YORK

LOS ANGELES (April 7) – The sure-fire ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate between former World Champions Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse and “The Siberian Rocky” Ruslan Provodnikov, just got more exciting as world class prospects got added to the non-televised undercard of the split site doubleheader live on HBO Boxing After Dark ® on Saturday, April 18 at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY.

 

In the non-televised co-main event of the night, exciting undefeated Brazilian prospect Patrick Teixeira (24-0, 20 KOs) will compete in a 10-round super welterweight bout against the hard-punching contender Patrick Allotey (30-1, 24 KOs) of Accra, Ghana. Next, Tuapse, Russia’s Fedor “Knockout Man” Papazov (16-1-0, 10 KOs) will fight in an eight-round lightweight match.  Washington, D.C.’s standout undefeated fighter, Lamont Roach Jr. (6-0, 3 KOs) is scheduled to fight in a six-round lightweight fight. Vitor Jones De Olivera (8-0, 5 KO’s) of Salvador, Brazil will face Guillermo Sanchez (15-14-1, 6 KOs) of Buffalo, New York in a six-round lightweight bout.  Also, from New York, Eddie “E-Boy” Gomez (17-1, 10 KOs) of the Bronx, is scheduled for a 10-round super welterweight bout against Jonathan Batista (14-5, 7 KOs) of San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic. Opening up the night, Vitaly Kopylenko(24-1-0, 14 KOs) of Kiev, Ukraine, will take on  Lekan “Lucky 13” Byfield (6-7-2, 1 KOs) of Atlanta, Georgia, in an eight-round middleweight fight.

 

Due to the unprecedented demand to see this surefire “Fight of the Year” candidate ringside seats sold out in only 15 minutes – and the entire event is now near sellout with Turning Stone Resort Casino releasing the last group of tickets in the $35 and $25 price range.  Tickets can be purchased by calling the Turning Stone Resort Box Office at 315-361-7469 or online at Ticketmaster.com.

 

A professional since 2009, the 24-year old Patrick Teixeira, wants to follow in the steps of the Brazilian three time world champion Acelino “Popo” Freitas and write his own story by conquering world titles in his career. Most recently, Teixeira beat Ulises David Lopez for the WBO Latino Super Welterweight title knocking Lopez down on the second round and winning the fight by knockout in the third round. In 2012, the young Brazilian star began to turn heads when he traveled to Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico and defeated Omar Vasquez via eighth round technical knockout. Now, Teixeira is intent on conquering the super welterweight division and becoming a world champion.

 

Welterweight contender Patrick Allotey, of Accra, Ghana is a tough fighter who has kept his undefeated status since his professional debut in 2007 until his most recent bout against Charles Manyuchi in March 2014 for the WBC International Welterweight Title. Along his professional journey and his impressive record of 30-1, 24, the hard puncher has won and defended the WBC International Silver Welterweight Title and will be looking for redemption when he faces the tough Patrick Teixeira on April 18.

 

Tuapse, Russia’s Fedor “Knockout Man” Papazov, is looking to make an impression in his first fight of 2015 on April 18. An exciting fighter since his professional debut in 2009, Papazov had a five-year undefeated streak until he faced eventual Boxcino 2014 lightweight champion Petr Petrov in February of 2014.  Since then the Russian fighter has had two straight wins, a technical knockout win over Miguel Angel Mendoza and a unanimous victory over Felix Lora.

 

Undefeated newcomer, Lamont Roach Jr. is quickly becoming an exciting one-to-watch in the boxing community.  Hailing from Washington D.C., Roach Jr, scored a knockdown and dominating a four-round decision over Puerto Rico’s Alexander Charneco in his Dec 6. bout. In January 20, the east coast native started off the year with an exciting fourth round technical knockout win over Herbert Quartey.  Now, the 19-year-old is looking to continue his winning streak when he fights on April 18.

 

Exciting newcomer, Vitor Jones De Olivera of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil has remained undefeated since his professional debut in 2012.  He is the nephew of former five-time world champion and Brazilian legend, Acelino “Popo” Freitas.  De Olivera will be making his second appearance at Turning Stone Resort Casino when he faces Guillermo Sanchez on April 18.  De Olivera was last seen at the resort in January when he met Michael Doyle, winning the bout via first round knockout.

 

At just 26-years-old, Guillermo Sanchez has already accumulated a total of 30 fights in his short career.  Turning professional in 2007 the fighter quickly made a name for himself in the sport, winning most of his bouts via knockout and keeping his undefeated status until 2009.  2015 has already turned into a busy year for the lightweight contender, facing Michael Doyle in January winning the bout via unanimous decision and winning his second fight of the year via first round knockout against Pablo Batres in February.  The fighter will be looking to continue his winning streak onApril 18 when he goes up against the undefeated Vitor Jones De Olivera.

 

22-year-old Eddie “E-Boy” Gomez is a hungry fighter, eager to not just get the victory, but to do it in spectacular fashion. With a 17-1 record which includes victories over previously unbeaten Daquan Arnett, Terrell Gausham Luis Arias and Daquan Arnett.  Most recently, Gomez faced James Winchester at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center and won the bout via unanimous decision.  Now the fighter is looking to continue his winning streak when he faces Jonathan Batista on April 18.

 

Dominican Republic native, Jonathan Batista has had an impressive career since he turned professional in 2010. Winning every bout from 2010 to 2013 the fighter is will be looking to add a victory when he faces Eddie Gomez at Turning Stone Resort Casino.

 

Vitaliy Kopylenko is an exciting fighter out of Kiev, Ukraine who has been making a name for himself in the middleweight division. He was undefeated from 2008 to 2014 and has held the World Boxing Federation Intercontinental Middleweight Titile and the EBU-EE Middleweight Title. On April 18, Kopylenko returns to the resort for the second time since his loss to eventual Boxcino 2014 middleweight champion Willie Monroe Jr. and will be looking to impress fans and critics as he takes on Lekan Byfield.   Kopylenko is coming off a 2nd round stoppage over Sherzod Rahimov onAugust 24.

 

Fighting out of Atlanta, Georgia, Lekan “Lucky 13” Byfield is a tough fighter known for going the distance in his bouts.  On April 18 the relative newcomer will be returning to Turning Stone Resort Casino for the second time in his career. Byfield, most recently fought Brandon Adams at the resort in January and will be looking for redemption when he faces Vitaliy Kopylenko.

 

 

 

Matthysse vs. Provodnikov is a 12-round junior welterweight bout presented by Banner Promotions, Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Box Promotions and is sponsored by Corona Extra, Mexico, Live it To Believe It! and Khortytsa Vodka. Doors are currently scheduled to open at 6:00 p.m. ET with the first bout scheduled for 6:50 p.m. ET and the HBO Boxing After Dark telecast will being at9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Professional media requesting credentials for the April 18th fight must contact Kelly Abdo, Turning Stone Resort Casino Public Relations Manager at 315.366.9291 orkelly.abdo@turningstone.com.

 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.banner-promotions.comwww.hbo.com/boxing and www.turningstone.com follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @BannerBoxing, @HBOBoxing, @RuslanProvod, @ TurningStone and become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy FacebookPage, www.facebook.com/BannerPromotions, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing orwww.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort  and visit us on Instagram@GoldenBoyBoxing, @ bannerboxing, @ turningstone and @ruslanprovod.

FRANCISCO SANTANA PROMISES BRUTAL WAR WITH SADAM ALI

 

 

SANTA BARBARA, CA (April 7, 2015) – Gary Shaw Productions rising star, welterweight Francisco “Chia” Santana (22-3-1, 10 KOs), is riding a 10-fight winning streak going into his highly anticipated clash with undefeated 2008 U.S. Olympian, Sadam “World Kid” Ali (21-0, 13 KOs).  Santana gives his thoughts on this match-up, his training camp and fighting at Madison Square Garden on the undercard of Klitschko vs. Jennings. The doubleheader will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Training camp update…

“Training camp is going as planned.  I’ve added a few new things that will be on display April 25th.  Right now it’s about sharpening up the tools that got me here.  There is nothing that needs to be changed.  I’ve been active so I know I’ll be ready to showcase my talents on HBO come fight night.”

 

Reflects on his journey to Madison Square Garden…

“It’s been a hard fought journey to get where I’m at today.  After suffering a few losses I decided I was going to dedicate my life to this sport and give it my all.  With a lot of hard work and support from my promoter Gary Shaw, I’m now fighting on the biggest stage at the most prestigious venue in boxing.  Madison Square Garden is where every fighter dreams they can fight.  It’s my time to show the world I’m on the championship level.”

 

Relationship with Trainer Joseph “Hoss” Janik…

“When you have the right trainer in your corner, it’s truly a blessing.  Hoss is the man and he always tells me like it is.  If I’m not doing something right he’ll let me know right away, he doesn’t beat around the bush.  I’m on a ten fight winning streak and he has a lot to do with it.  You couldn’t ask for a better man in the corner.”

 

Sparring at Wild Card Boxing Gym…

“When you walk into the Wild Card gym you know going in its going to be a rugged day of sparring.  The gym is filled with world champions and top prospects.  You can’t replicate the work you get there.”

 

On his matchup with Sadam Ali…

“Sadam Ali is a world class fighter with elite boxing skills, but I feel my style will give him problems.  He puts his punches together well and he made a strong statement in his last fight against Abregu.  A win against Ali will propel me into a world title fight.  Believe me when I say I’m going to bring it on April 25th, it’s going to be a brutal war!”

 

Sadam Ali vs. Francisco Santana is a 10-round welterweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions. The HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Wladimir Klitschko vs. Bryant Jennings is presented by K2 Promotions and Gary Shaw Promotions in association with Madison Square Garden.

 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.garyshawproductions.com, and www.hbo.com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @GaryShawBoxing and @HBOBoxing, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, Gary Shaw Productions Facebook Page, or www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @HBOboxing.

* * * VIDEO ALERT * * *   FLOYD MAYWEATHER VS. MANNY PACQUIAO OFFICIAL COMMERCIAL LAUNCH AND VIDEO LINK

 

Click Here For The Official Commercial Link

 

Short Link: http://s.sho.com/1bU4liB

Credit: Esther Lin/Mayweather vs. Pacquiao

With less than a month to go until the historic championship showdown between 11-time, five-division world champion Floyd “Money” Mayweather and eight-division world champion Manny “Pac-Man” Pacquiao, the collective marketing team for the Mayweather vs. Pacquiao promotion released the commercial spot today touting the pay-per-view event.

 

This commercial — filmed with both prizefighters in a Los Angeles studio on the evening of March 11 — is a creative collaboration between Mayweather Promotions, Top Rank, SHOWTIME PPV® and HBO Pay-Per-View®. The 30-second spot highlights the anticipation and the great magnitude of this once-in-a-lifetime event. It serves as the lynchpin to an aggressive multi-media marketing campaign that will take place in the next four weeks. The overall Mayweather vs. Pacquiao marketing campaign is expected to receive unprecedented levels of support from pay-per-view providers.

 

The epic showdown takes place Saturday, May 2 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena and will be co-produced and co-distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View and SHOWTIME PPV. The live pay-per-view telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.comwww.toprank.comwww.hbo.com/boxing,www.SHO.com/Sportsand www.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @MannyPacquiao @mayweatherpromo, @TRBoxing, @HBOboxing, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FloydMayweatherwww.facebook.com/TopRankMannyPacquiao www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.facebook.com/TRBoxing,

www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing and facebook.com/ShoBoxing.

THOMAS DULORME LOOKING PHENOMENAL IN TRAINING CAMP

 



Photo credit – David Infante @787Films / Team Dulorme

 

PUERTO RICO (April 2, 2015) – Top junior welterweight contender Thomas Dulorme (22-1, 14 KO’s) from Puerto Rico, along with his team led by Puerto Rican trainers, Anthony ‘Gallero’ Otero and Félix Pagan Pintor, are feeling highly confident about their world title bout against Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford (25-0, 17 KOs), who was the 2014 ‘Boxer of the Year’ and former WBO Lightweight world champion. The Crawford vs Dulorme bout will be for the vacant WBO junior welterweight world title on Saturday, April 18th, at the College Park Center located at the University of Texas, Arlington. The bout will be televised live as part of a split-site doubleheader on HBObeginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Dulorme on fighting for the people of Puerto Rico…

“There is no better feeling than to train in my country.  It gives me so much confidence and being at home motivates me even more because I get to see the people which I represent with pride and honor.  We want to show the world that Puerto Rico will continue to produce more world champions”.

 

Dulorme on working with his new team of trainers…

“I have complete trust in my team’s game plan to defeat Crawford.  I like the mix of dynamics between my trainers which combine the new and old school styles of boxing. Pintor is old school and Otero brings a fresh mind in to game. They are both contributing to what has turned out to be a great training camp”.
Dulorme on Terrance Crawford as a fighter and the matchup…

“Crawford is one of the best fighters in the world.  He’s been awarded “Fighter of the Year” by many media outlets because he had a tremendous year in 2014.  He’s moving up in weight where he’s entering into uncharted territory though.  I feel I have the advantage being that I’ve fought at this weight several times.  I’m the bigger man and I plan to impose my will on him.”

 

“I’m very pleased with Dulorme and his new team of trainers,” said Gary Shaw. “The fact that he’s training at home in Puerto Rico makes me feel good because I know his countrymen are there supporting his every move.  We are only a few weeks away from fight night and I’m confident I’m going to be the promoter of a new world champion.  The people of Puerto Rico will have a huge star they can call their own.”
“It’s a dream come true for us to come together and help prepare Dulorme for the biggest fight of his career.” said Dulorme’s co-trainer Anthony Otero. “From the first day I worked with Dulorme, I knew that the preparation for the fight was destined to be on a great path and has proven to be so to this day”.

“Dulorme is in excellent condition,” stated Felix Pagan Pintor, who has worked over 60 world championship bouts with legendary fighters such as Wilfredo Gomez, Hector ‘Macho’ Camacho, Edwin ‘Chapo’ Rosario, Ivan Calderon, Paul Williams, Carlos Santos, among others.  “From the way he has performed in training and sparring, I foresee that on April 18th, Puerto Rico will have a new world champion.”

Richy Miranda, Dulorme’s advisor and president of the ADM (Artists Designs Management) company commented, “We were very selective in choosing an experienced and highly committed quality team. Every day during training camp, the atmosphere is very positive and the work being done is exceeding all expectations. There is no doubt that Dulorme will defeat Crawford and join the ranks of all the Puerto Rican champions before him.”

 

Promoted By Top Rank®, in association with Gary Shaw Productions, Foreman Boys Promotions and Tecate, tickets to the Crawford-Dulorme are on sale now.  Priced at $200, $100, $60, $40 and $25, plus applicable fees, tickets can be purchased at College Park Center box office, online at www.utatickets.com orwww.utacollegpark.com or by phone at (817) 272-9595.

 

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com, or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing,facebook.com/trboxeo, facebook.com/GaryShawProductions or facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter attwitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, twitter.com/GaryShawBoxing or twitter.com/hboboxing.  Use the Hashtag #CrawfordDulorme to join the conversation on Twitter.

Win A Trip to Las Vegas for Mayweather-Pacquiao

Enter for a chance to win a trip for two to Las Vegas and two tickets to the megafight between Floyd Mayweather, Jr., and Manny Pacquiao on May 2 at the MGM Grand. The grand prize winner will receive two tickets to the fight, three nights of lodging on the Las Vegas strip and a $700 travel allowance per person.

 

The second place winner will receive a $1000 equipment package from provider Sting and the third place winner will be awarded a $300 USA Boxing apparel package.

 

For just a $10 suggested donation, you can enter our sweepstakes to witness the fight of the century firsthand and support USA Boxing and the United States’ best Olympic-style boxers at the same time.

 

Though a donation is not necessary to enter and it will not improve your chances of winning, don’t miss your chance to win this once in a lifetime experience. Enter now and enter often. The sweepstakes will end onApril 15, 2015.

 

Click here to enter the sweepstakes.

 

See Official Rules for details, including eligibility and entry deadlines.  Void where prohibited.  No purchase or donation is necessary to enter or win.   

Matthysse – Provodnikov Conference call Transcript

 Operator: Welcome to the Matthysse Provodnikov conference call. I will now turn it over to Marc Abrams.

Mr. Marc Abrams: Hello, everyone, welcome to this great conference call for this tremendous fight that’s going to happen on Saturday, April 18th at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. The fight will come on air at 9:45 as part of a split site double header with Terence Crawford taking on Thomas Dulorme. On the call for the first part of the call will be Team Provodnikov, Banner Promotions present Artie Pelullo, the Siberian Rocky himself Ruslan Provodnikov, along with his manager Vadim Kornilov who will train–ultimately will translate, Hall of Fame promoter Freddie Roach, and also Kelly Abdo and Heidi Strong from Turning Stone are also on the call. Let me turn it over to Artie Pelullo–Artie?

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Hi, hello, everybody, this is Artie Pelullo from Banner Promotions. Good afternoon–everybody on this call knows that this is one of the great fights of the year for us, for our sport, and I just wanted to–the first thing I want to say is thank Eric Gomez from Golden Boy, and Oscar for helping us put this fight together. It was very easy to do. Eric, Lucas, and–I’m sorry, Lucas Matthysse and Ruslan Provodnikov, excuse me, both wanted this fight. So, it was very easy to put together. Eric and I literally did the deal in maybe 30 or 40 minutes and this is how one of the great fights of 2015 got made, very easily, but two guys who wanted to fight and two promotional companies who work together in the co-promotion. And we’re doing this event equally together and it’s going to be an exciting night for boxing. I believe it’s going to be Corrales Castillo one, which I had a good fortune of promoting with Bob Arum and Gary Shaw. That’s what I think of the fight. Both guys don’t know how to do anything but put on TV friendly and fan friendly fights. Before I get into anything else with the show, I’d just like to turn it over to Kelly from Turning Stone who is the PR Manager who would like to say a few words on behalf of or host, Turning Stone Resort & Casino who went out of their way to make sure that they landed this fight because they’re really into the boxing business. They’re really fight site friendly. And they’re really into going out of their way to put on a spectacular live event at their location. So, Kelly, why don’t you take it from here and say what you’d like to say about Turning Stone.

Ms. Kelly Abdo: All right, thank you, Artie–hello, everyone, it’s Kelly Abdo from Turning Stone Resort Casino. And as Artie mentioned, we’re really excited to be hosting this epic fight and to have everyone here. We’re all really looking forward to it and we have a week’s worth of events lined up that we’re really excited to host.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Thanks, Kelly–one thing I need to mention, guys, to everybody on the call and ladies and ladies and gentlemen, the reason why the fight is at Turning Stone is because Ed Allmann and Heidi Strong. They wanted the fight. They were aggressive about the fight. They realized what this kind of fight could mean because it could be a historic event because of two great punchers and two great exciting styles. I know Oscar is going to talk about Lucas, but I just like to say that he is a great fighter and I know his manager slash promoter for 20 years, Mario Arana and he’s an exceptional young man. So, it’s going to be a terrific fight on their side. As far as Ruslan’s concerned, in my opinion there’s none better. We’ve been together since his very beginning, since his first fight. It’s been my privilege to work with him. He’s a true athlete. He’s very focused on his job. He’s extremely focused on being a promotional. The VADA, the Anti-Doping Test is always something that he demands and insists on. He doesn’t believe athletes should be anything but legitimate and 100 percent legal. And his manager is Vadim who I have been working with for several years. We have a lot of fighters together. And he’s just good people, focused on the job–never an issue about who. It’s always when are we fighting? Let’s make the best fights possible. And also now Freddie Roach is on the call with us, as you know. Everybody knows Freddie. And his career changed Ruslan when he went to Freddie. The truth of it is, when he went to Freddie, got in that gym, was around world-class guys, the quality of the people he was working with changed and the development of his career was tenfold. So, after saying all of that I want to thank everybody. I’d like to introduce Freddie right now. And, as you know, Freddie is training also training the great Manny Pacquiao, but I’d like to have Freddie say a few words on behalf of Ruslan and the show–Freddie?

Mr. Freddie Roach: Hey, thank you, Artie. Ruslan is doing really well and he’s in a really good shape for this fight. He knows just how to fight and he’s a good fighter and I look forward to it, and on paper it looks like one of the best this year. So, it’s going to be a tremendous show and I don’t think you want to miss this on.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Okay, thanks, Freddie, and now I’d like to introduce to you all Ruslan Provodnikov, the Siberian Rocky, who, as I’ve said I’ve had the good fortune of meeting him and Vadim seven years ago when I went to Moscow for the first time and signed Ruslan to an exclusive contract. And, boy, did I not know how lucky I was at the time–Ruslan Provodnikov, gentlemen and ladies–Ruslan Provodnikov.

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: How are you? Hi.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Well, that’s good. He can say more than one word.

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: I just woke up getting ready to go to training. I’m happy to hear everybody.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Well, Vadim, would you like to say a few words?

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: Definitely–Artie, thank you for the great introduction and, you know, we’re here. Ruslan–he’s eating as we’re doing this. I’m sorry–he’ll be more talkative in about two, three minutes, but I’m glad that this all worked out. It’s a great fight that everybody is looking forward to. And, you know, Banner Promotions, Golden Boy, Oscar De La Hoya, Artie Pelullo, you guys did a great job and I appreciate, and you working together to put this fight together. It’s very easy to make, and I think this is the way it should be. This is way the business should be, is the best fighting, the best, and the promoters working together–thank you.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Thank you, Vadim, and I guess now it’s back to you for questions and answer, guys, for Marc? How does it go from here?

Mr. Marc Abrams: Maggie?

Operator: The lines are now open for questions. If you would like to ask a question, you may do so by pressing star and then one on your telephone keypad. That’s star and the number one. Our first question comes from the line of Dan Rafael with ESPN. Your line is live.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Thank you very much–hello?

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Go ahead, Dan. We can hear you.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Okay, thank you, Artie–thank you, guys–my first question, Vadim, could you ask, respond, what does he believe the impact will be if any in the fact that Freddie–because of the Pacquiao training camp–is not going to actually be in the corner, even though he’s training him in the gym?

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: Everything is all right. This is not the first time that Freddie was not in the corner. For me what’s important is that Freddie is with me throughout the camp and we’re working together as a team to come up with the right strategy and, you know, get ready for this fight. It’s not a big deal. You know, Marvin Somodio is Freddie’s right hand guy is going to be there for me and I know that Marvin knows what I need to do in the wrong. And that’s all that’s important, but for me this is not a problem.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Okay, Freddie, are you there?

Mr. Freddie Roach: Yes.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Freddie, I know you always like to be with your fighters on fight night. Obviously that’s a big part of training a guy. Can you speak to the reason you won’t be there? Is it the matter of just because of the serious nature of the Pacquiao training camp? I understand you’ve also had some problems with your back. What’s your take on the reasons that you can’t make it to Turning Stone for the fight.

Mr. Freddie Roach: Yeah, because the Pacquiao fight is very important right now and Ruslan is very important also. I work with him every day in the gym. He and Marvin have a good rapport together. Marvin knows what to do. He’s a very good trainer. Even after a fight when we went to Denver by himself without me and they came through. They understand what I want and just because I’m not there doesn’t–Ruslan will still fight his fight and Marvin will make the adjustments along the way. There will be no problem whatsoever. It’s not the first or last time this has happened in my life.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Freddie, when you think about the fight on paper between these guys, I think pretty much every boxing fan looks at this and just says, “Wow, there is no chance. This can’t be, you know, potentially the fight of the year, or a very memorable action packed fight. Can you just give me your take on the match up?

Mr. Freddie Roach: Yes, it’s the greatest match up in the world. It’s–you’ve got two guys that love to fight, two guys that are great punches. It’s going to be a very exciting fight. That’s for sure, and it’s the best fight and the best is what we need. This is what’s going on in boxing right now and that’s why everything is really happening in boxing bigger than ever at this point because of fights like this.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Vadim, could you ask Ruslan to also give your response to his take on the match up? There are so many boxing fans who are super excited about this just because of the action style that Ruslan as well as Lucas to the ring.

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: I expect the same as all the fans. You know, this is a very exciting match up. This is going to be a great fight and I think that for me it’s no less than to all the people watching. You know, for me it’s exciting as well and these types of fights are what’s important because for me the fight and the money as I’ve said many times, they’re not number one. Number one is I want my fights to be part of history, and I think this is one of those fights that is destined to be part of history. And that’s what I want to give my fans. That’s what I want to give my people back home is these fights that people will remember because not all the fights that a World Title fights are remembered. But the fights that–the type of fight that can happen between Matthysse and I are–is a fight that’s definitely going to be remembered forever.

Mr. Dan Rafael: All right, thank you very much, guys–appreciate your time.

Mr. Marc Abrams: Thank you.

Operator: All right, next question comes from the line of Michael Woods with the Sweet Science. Your line is live.

Mr. Michael Woods: Hey, guys, thanks for making the time–my question is for Ruslan. Ruslan, I presume that you believe going into the fight you are betting than Matthysse. How are you better than Mattyssee?

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: Well, first of all I never said that I’m better than him or that I’m better than anyone else because it’s not for me to judge. All I can say is that I know that I can beat anybody and it’s all about my will. And I know that if I give everything that I have in the ring, and I give everything that I have in training, I can beat anybody. It’s all about my character and all I’m willing to give. I can’t judge who is better or who is not better, you know? And I know his team are saying a lot of things and they’re saying, “You know, we’re going to knock them out. We’re smarter, we’re better, we’re better boxers.” I don’t want to say any of that. I’m a lot more political than that. You know, talk is cheap. You know, there’s a Russian saying that says, “Don’t say I won until you win,” you know basically. And I’m not going to talk. You know, I’m going to my talking in the ring and I think that I can be better than anybody if I deserve it and I give it all in training.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Good stuff–I like that. Question is for Freddie–Freddie, I’m not asking for your game plan, but I am asking how you believe Ruslan is better than Matthysse on paper going into the fight.

Mr. Freddie Roach: I think, yeah, he is, I think he’s a good puncher, but Matthysse is very strong also. I mean this is–both guys are very dangerous. I told Ruslan if you hurt this guy, don’t just talk in because he has tremendous power. Don’t let him get lucky. So, you know, we have a pretty good game plan down. We know what do I think and how to do it I think. And so, probably we had a great training camp.

Mr. Dan Rafael: All right, good stuff–thanks, guys, I appreciate it.

Operator: Our next question comes from the line of Distino Lois Jr. from Black Star News New York City. Your line is live.

Mr. Distino Lois Jr.: Thank you very much–thank you for the invitation, I appreciate it. The question to Ruslan is, Ruslan, unfortunately–this is Distino Lois Jr., Black Star News, Manhattan–you suffered a setback with your loss to Chris Algieri. Do you consider this fight with Lucas Matthysse a redemption, a door opener if victorious so that you can take advantage of the vacancies of the 140 pounders because now, of course, we are aware of the fact that Danny Garcia and Lamont Peterson, two of your future opponents, have moved up to 143 catch-weight fight for the 11th. So, now the victory over Matthysse would be a door opener for you. Is that how you feel?

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: I definitely know that there’s a lot of different things going on at 140 right now, but for me right now I’m thinking about April 18th, you know? You know, I’m thinking about this fight and I know that once I win this fight it will open a lot of doors for me. But, you know, once the fight is over we can sit down and I’ll be happy to answer all your questions about what’s next.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: I see–let me just also clarify the question that was asked. So you know, neither one of those two guys are giving up their title. They’re fighting at 143 pounds. So, neither one of them would have to be at risk of losing their title, which I find very interesting that neither one of them would fight for their title so they could give up their title to the winner. So, nobody is giving up their titles in that fight. What they’re doing is they made an agreement not to put their titles on the line, which is a big difference in what your question was originally about, sir.

Mr. Distino Lois Jr.: Well, absolutely, but I question Danny Garcia and you said he was having trouble making the weight. That’s why he agreed–.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: –Then he should give up the title–.

Mr. Distino Lois Jr.: –To, to–.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: –Then he should give up the title, but anyway–.

Mr. Distino Lois Jr.: –Right–.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: –That’s not–he should give up the title, but that’s not what’s going on–.

Mr. Distino Lois Jr.: –Right–.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: –What’s going on is they’re not fighting on weight, so neither one of them are at risk to lose their title–.

Mr. Distino Lois Jr.: –Right, I’m aware of that. Thank you very much. Ruslan, without giving out any trade secrets with your Hall of Fame Freddie Roach trainer, how are you all prepared for Matthysse, being that Matthysse has already shown some flaws of being knocked down twice by Molina and once by Danny Garcia? So, what are you doing to make sure that yours is the final punch?

Mr. Marc Abrams: I guess next question?

Operator: All right, our next question comes from the line of Briggs Seekins from Bleacher Report. Your line is live.

Mr. Briggs Seekins: Yeah, hi, Ruslan–I’m wondering is there a sense where mentally it’s a little bit easier to relax in training camp when you know you’re playing a guy who is going to give you the kind of fight you want and not be, you know, an evasive sort of fighter like Algieri, but a guy who is going to, you know, like you say, give you a fight that makes history and also give you the kind of fight that you like to fight?

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: For me training camp is training camp. I always give everything I can in training camp and I’m very responsible in training camp. I don’t take anybody lightly, but to answer your question, you know, walking into a ring with a fighter that I know will fight me definitely I can do a lot better than a fighter who will just run.

Mr. Briggs Seekins: Great, thank you–and Artie I did–I want to thank you for calling out the situation at 140 with the titles. It’s a little discouraging to see them not treated the way that a lot of us grew up seeing titles treated.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Yup, you’re right, and, you know, what’s going on is purely that they don’t want to have anything at risk. It’s a dangerous fight for both guys, but not for like Provodnikov and Matthysse. They’re putting it all on the line because they’re still fighting at 12 rounds. It’s 140 pounds. There is no title because we don’t have one, and I’m telling you both these kids would put their titles out if they had, but they wouldn’t be avoiding fighting for the title because then they don’t want to take a chance at losing it. That’s what’s going on. That’s exactly what’s happening.

Mr. Briggs Seekins: Yeah, absolutely–all right, good luck, Ruslan.

Mr. Marc Abrams: I guess we’ll take one more for Ruslan.

Operator: Our last question comes from the line of Chris Gunzz with 15rounds.com. Your line is live.

Mr. Chris Gunzz: Ruslan, he is a huge puncher as a few different guys brought up already. Do you think he’s going to be the biggest puncher you’ve faced and do you ever wonder if you’ll be able to handle that power? Have you ever had the experience of getting hit by a guy who carries a massive punch like that, and do you feel–any questions on whether you’ll be able to take it on the night?

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: The question is about Matthysse being the biggest puncher that Ruslan has faced, correct?

Mr. Chris Gunzz: Yes, and if he has any questions of whether he’ll be able to take it.

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: Looking at his record, he seems to be one of the biggest punchers of this decade, you know? He’s probably one of the biggest punchers right now. Does it bother me–not at all. It only makes me more excited because I know that this is going to be a real fight and I know that either, you know, I take him or he takes me. And it’s going to be toe to toe it’s going to be a real fight. For me that’s only a positive.

Mr. Chris Gunzz: And I appreciate that even more that you realize you’re facing someone dangerous, and you want to face him anyway and you don’t mind it. I love the balls you’re showing in that, and final question for Freddie. Is it a plan to jump on him early, Freddie, because he did show that vulnerability in the Molina fight? Is Freddie still there? I heard someone hang up in the phone call, but is Freddie still there?

Mr. Freddie Roach: I’m here. Yeah, I’m still here.

Mr. Chris Gunzz: Is it a focus in training camp to try to jump on him early seeing that the vulnerability was shown in the Molina fight early on?

Mr. Freddie Roach: Well, you know, we can. I mean we know how this guy fights. I mean I think he is the bigger punch, and we’re a little bit better than he is, but I mean, you know, he’s got his strong points also. So, it makes for an exciting fight. Ruslan is a very good fighter. Ruslan, I saw him learn how to fight Manny Pacquiao on his own. He used to be Manny’s sparing partner. And that’s when I first really got interested in him because he’s so capable. He learns very quickly and he’s a great shooter.

Mr. Chris Gunzz: One of the best ever–I appreciate it, Freddie. Good luck on April 18th and good luck on May too.

Mr. Freddie Roach: Thank you very much.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Okay, was that it, guys?

Mr. Marc Abrams: It’s–I’m going to turn it over to Golden Boy and Team Matthysse in a minute. I guess final comments from I guess first Artie and then Ruslan.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Well, I just want to say thank you for everybody for joining the call. There’s really not much to say. As Dan Rafael and all the other reporters and Mr. Woods who got on the phone, everybody knows that this is the most TV friendly and fan friendly fight. The networks were all over–both of them bid on the fight. So, it’s going to be a great night for boxing, a great night for our fans. And I just want to thank everybody, Ruslan, Freddie, and Vadim for helping promote the fight, which–it’s like–it doesn’t take a lot of promoting to promote this event because everybody knows it’s going to be a terrific event. I want to thank everybody for coming on board–thank you. Now I’d like to introduce my co-promoter and my partner in the show, and everybody knows who this is, one of the great fighters of our time who has turned out to be quite the promoter himself, good people. He has a nice staff. Like I said earlier, a lot of people say a lot of different things. It literally has been no misses to work with Oscar and his staff. It was very smooth and it’s been a joy and a pleasure, and like Eric Gomez and I say there will be future events that we’ll be working. Now I’d like to turn it over to Oscar De La Hoya. He’s the founder and president of Golden Boy and one of the great personalities in our sport. It’s my pleasure to work with him, Oscar?

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: Artie, sorry to interrupt. Ruslan is leaving. So, we’re good to go. He wanted to say a couple of things–.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: –Oh, I’m sorry–I went too fast, excuse me. I’m sorry, Ruslan. Say something. I apologize.

Mr. Ruslan Provodnikov: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: I just want to say that I want to thank Artie Pelullo personally, Banner Promotions. I want to thank my whole team for making this happen. This is going to be a great fight. I want to thank HBO for making this happen. I’ve been loyal to them and they’ve been loyal to me and that’s very important to me and we’ve done great things together and there’s great things to come. So, I appreciate this and I want to say one thing to the fans. I promise this is going to be the fight you guys are all waiting for. And now from me, Artie, good luck with–.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: –Sure–.

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: –I want to give the word to Oscar De La Hoya and the rest of his team, and I bet for the next 30 minutes you guys are going to hear a lot of–Matthysse is going to knock Provodnikov out and all of that, but I just want to say that Provodnikov has never been on his knees. So, you know, they’re talking about knockouts a lot, but they should be expecting a knock out on their team. Good luck to you guys and I appreciate the promotions. Ruslan says all the best of health to Matthysse and his team–thank you.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Thanks, Vadim–.

Mr. Vadim Kornilov: –Thanks again–.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: –Well, since I–I apologize, guys, I went a little bit too fast. So, Oscar, you’re up. I don’t have to say it again. Everybody knows what we think of you–Oscar De La Hoya–.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Thank you very much–we really appreciate it and Artie already mentioned this fight needs no promotion. We are just thrilled that the best network is going to be televising this event. These are the types of events that obviously belong on HBO Championship Boxing and we are just thrilled and excited to be part of it. I also want to take the opportunity to thank Corona Extra, also Mexico Live it to Believe it, and Corsair Vodka, which are the sponsors of the events. They have been doing a tremendous, tremendous job with all of the Marketing and the grassroots Marketing. So, come April 18th the whole world will know the best 140 pounders will be fighting on that night. It is my pleasure to introduce to you a fighter who hails from Argentina. We all know Argentinean fighters are strong fighters who are smart fighters who come to give the fight fans a spectacular show and when you’re going to see Lucas and Provodnikov in that same ring April 18th, we–you’re guaranteed fireworks. So, it is my pleasure to introduce to you a fighter with a record of 36 and 3 and 32 knockouts. They call him La Máquina, and that is Lucas Matthysse. [Foreign Language Spoken]–Lucas. [Foreign Language Spoken], Lucas.

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: I’ll translate for Lucas. He said, hi, good afternoon, everybody–I’m calling from my training camp in Junin and I’ve very excited for this fight and to be fighting once again in the United States.

Mr. Marc Abrams: Thank you, gracias, and we’ll now open it up for questions from the media–gracias.

Operator: As a reminder, if you would like to ask a question, you may do so by pressing star and then one on your telephone keypad. That’s star and the number one, and our first question comes from the line of Dan Rafael with ESPN. Your line is live.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Thank you very much–my question for Lucas–I asked Ruslan this in his portion of the call–you have a fight here where I think pretty much every boxing fan, media is anxiously waiting what they think would be the fight of the year. I would like to hear from Lucas about his thoughts about the really high expectations for this fight to be, you know, extremely, extremely exciting and entertaining.

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: Yes, I’m, you know, I’m just excited. I’m excited to be fighting a caliber of fighter like Ruslan. It’s two, you know, fighters at the top of their game fighting each other. I had many good, you know, replies on it, especially in Argentina. A lot of people are looking forward to the fight and I’m just excited to be fighting again at this level and fighting a guy like Ruslan.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Eric, could you ask Lucas, you know, in April last year he knocked out John Molina. It got voted as the Fight of the Year by the Boxing Writers. Does he think that it has the chance of–to be another fight of the year? Is that something he ever thinks about? I know he’s probably happy that they got the Fight of the Year for last year. He could make it two in a row potentially.

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: Well, I mean for last year’s fight I’ve got to give credit to John Molina because he came to fight and he allowed me to perform in a way that made it Fight of the Year. If Ruslan comes forward and is aggressive and does the same thing, then, yes, I’m going to seize that opportunity and try to take advantage of that and make it an exciting fight. I think personally it could be a great fight. But, you know, it takes two.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Exactly, thank you for that, Eric–one question for you, Oscar.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: I’m here.

Mr. Dan Rafael: Hey, Oscar, good to talk to you. I know for the last number of months you have preached very regularly about your desire to try to make the best fights you possibly can do as the leader of Golden Boy Promotions. I’d like to know from your point of view, is this sort of basically the kind of fight you had talked about when you said those words that this is the expectations that you have to make this caliber of a fight on a regular basis?

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Well, these are exactly the fights that the fans want to see, whether there’s a title on the line or no title, or where it takes place. You know, these are the fights that the fans deserve and I’ve been an advocate of staging the best fights possible for the fans and come April 18th I don’t know for sure, but I have a good hunch that this fight might be the Fight of the Year.

Mr. Dan Rafael: All right, thank you for that, Oscar–appreciate it. Thank you very much, guys, look forward to this one.

Operator: All right, our next question comes from the line of Daniel [unintelligible] [00:35:22] Deportiva [sp]. Your line is live.

Mr. Daniel: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Daniel: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Yeah, he asked me about this fight, why wasn’t it staged in Los Angeles or in Las Vegas? Why New York, and, you know, simple–the venues were not available and I–he asked me if, you know, this fight being such an exciting and anticipated fight, I mean how do I feel? This is what Golden Boy is all about and I’m just really happy to be working with Artie Pelullo and Eric was very instrumental in making this fight happen, and we feel very, very optimistic that I mean this fight is going be action packed from the first battle and I–and it might even be better than the Mayweather Pacquiao fight.

Mr. Daniel: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: Okay, so the question was, do you know–are you aware that, you know, Freddie Roach will not be working in the corner of Ruslan on the night of the fight. And Lucas said, “No, not really–I didn’t know.”

Mr. Daniel: Gracias.

Operator: All right, next question comes from the line of Michael Woods with the Sweet Science. Your line is live.

Mr. Michael Woods: Hi, guys, thanks for taking the time. My question is for Ruslan. Ruslan, on the first portion of the call someone referenced you saying something along the lines of you believe you are going to knock Provodnikov out. But I didn’t see that. I’m not sure what outlet that was said to. Can you reiterate that? Can you talk about that and clarify it for me what was said there?

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: No, he said they weren’t exactly those words, but he said how long. It’s a tough fight and he’s going to–he’s ready to fight. He’s ready for a tough fight, and if the opportunity presents itself so that the fight could end early, obviously I’m going to take advantage of it. But I’m ready to fight a tough fight and it’s going to be a tough fight.

Mr. Michael Woods: Thanks–this question is for Oscar. Oscar, you’ve repeatedly said you want the best fighting the best. That’s going to be the stamp that Golden Boy wishes to put on its fight. I am wondering, is there a certain class of athlete and human being who wants to accept the challenge of the best fighting the best, and are you going to maybe target those types of fighters and only sign those types of fighters to Golden Boy moving forward?

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Well, that’s up to the fighter. I mean I can’t fight for the fighter. You know, they go up to the ring and they perform, but, you know, we at Golden Boy want to make the best match ups possible, you know, obviously keeping in mind that, you know, that the fans always come first and, you know, this fight here with Lucas and Provodnikov, I mean this is–everybody is writing about how this is going to be the Fight of the Year and we feel proud to be working with Artie Pelullo and making this happen.

Mr. Michael Woods: Yeah, and the fan buzz for this on Twitter is amazing I would say. Could you give us a hint maybe, a little bit of a tease about maybe some other types of fist fights that maybe you’re trying to make, or want to make for the rest of this year?

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Well, this is–that’s calls for another conference call. So, we’re going to focus here on Lucas. So, we’ll have a call about that shortly, my man.

Mr. Michael Woods: All right, thanks–appreciate it, guys–be well.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Take care, Michael.

Operator: All right, next question comes from the line of Disino Lois Jr. with Black Star News New York City. Your line is live.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: Thank you very much–gracias–[Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Hey, Eric, can you translate that in English too? I speak a little Italian, but no Spanish.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: Oh, you want me to say it in English too?

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Yeah, I want to hear what’s–I told you, I speak a little Italian, but no Spanish–sorry, guys.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: Well, I can do both if you want me to. I don’t know.

Mr. Eric Gomez: So, the question was, Lucas, do you see this as an opportunity of more doors opening at 140 so that you can be the top fighter at 140? Obviously there’s still Danny Garcia and Lamonte, but everybody knows they’re fighting at a catch-weight. Is this kind of like the changing of the guard and it’s going to open up the doors so you can be the top fighter at 140? Lucas, [Foreign Language Spoken], Lucas?

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: Yes, obviously, I mean obviously with this fight here, we’re the ones that are fighting at the weight class–.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: –Right–.

Mr. Eric Gomez: –Whatever reason Danny and Lamonte, they’re not–they’re fighting outside of the weight class. Yes, this is the fight that’s going to open up opportunities for the winner. It’s the fight that’s going to open up bigger and better things, and that’s what I’m looking forward to. That’s what motivates me.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: Lucas, [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: Are you preparing for this question–are you preparing for this fight which obviously promises to be a fight in a phone booth? Are you preparing so you’re not hit and not dropped like you have, like you did get dropped with Danny and your last fight with Molina, Lucas?

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: Well, it’s all in the preparation. It’s all in the preparation and I’ve had–.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: –Right–.

Mr. Eric Gomez: –And I’ve had a very, very good preparation and obviously we’ve worked on things so that that won’t happen during the fight, but it’s all in the preparation and I’ve had one of the best preparations for this fight.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: Thank you–gracias, Lucas–my last question will be to Oscar De La Hoya. Oscar–I’ll do it in English. Is this your dream come true, Oscar, that all of the fights that you wanted to put together are little by little coming true, and at the same time you are spreading the wealth because you are going up to Verona, New York. A lot of people have told me, where the heck is Verona, New York, but it is a fight town. So, are you doing this to spread the wealth of boxing and to make it more palatable for those who cannot come into the Las Vegas and the California’s and whatever?

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Well, it, I’m happy to be part of a year where boxing will be shown and on the main stage. You know, we feel that boxing in 2015 is going to transcend–.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: –Right–.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: –And boxing is just–it’s just getting started. I mean with the Mayweather Pacquiao fight happening–.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: –Right–.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: –With Canelo fighting and this fight here, I mean this is what the fans want to see and we’re just excited to be part of it. And, you know, to take it down to Verona, you know, the ticket sales are just a great indication of–.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: –Right–.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: –You know, that Verona is a fight town and–.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: –Exactly–.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: –Yeah, the arenas weren’t available in Los Angeles or Las Vegas. So, you know, we didn’t take a risk of taking it to Verona. I mean we obviously already–Pelullo knew first hand what type of fans there are in Verona, New York. So, you know, obviously he wasn’t wrong. I mean this is almost a sell out event so we’re excited to be part of it.

Mr. Disino Lois Jr.: Thank you very much–God bless all of you and [Foreign Language Spoken]. Thank you very much, I appreciate it.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Gracias.

Operator: All right, next question comes from the lines of Chris Gunzz with15rounds.com. Your line is live.

Mr. Chris Gunzz: Lucas, I know that–it was my opinion that it was Fight of the Year last year, you versus John Molina. And you know how hard John Molina hits. You faced him. When you were sent film of Ruslan, you know that he carries a punch. How do you assess through film when you compare what you might feel from him, that what you already felt from John Molina? Who do you think has bigger one-punch power?

Mr. Eric Gomez: Lucas, [Foreign Language Spoken]. Lucas?

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: Yes, yes, okay–yeah, yeah, you know, obviously it’s hard to compare because, you know, I haven’t fought against Ruslan. But they’re different styles. They’re different styles. Molina was a little sneaky. Ruslan is a very, very different style. Obviously the object of it is not to get hit, you know, in this fight but I’m preparing. I’ll be ready for it.

Mr. Chris Gunzz: And, as a guy who faced that kind of power and had to get up, cross the canvas, and you pulled out a victory in that great fight, do you ever have any questions that if Ruslan does prove to carry bigger power, will you be able to get up? Do you ever question that?

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Lucas Matthysse: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: I’m not going to get dropped with Ruslan. So, you don’t have to worry about that. I’m not going to get dropped. But when Molina dropped me, you know, if the punch was a little bit behind my head. I’m not making excuses, but I’m not going to get dropped. I’m not going to get dropped with Ruslan and that’s not what I’m thinking about.

Mr. Chris Gunzz: He’s pretty tough, and one question for Cuty Barrera, Lucas did show and he has shown that he can jab and he can move a little bit. He does have a little bit more to his game than Ruslan does. Is it a game plan to show movement because Ruslan does admit that he has problems with movers? Is it a plan to try to move a little bit?

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Cuty Barrera: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Eric Gomez: He’s talking in robot I think. I don’t know what he’s saying. [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Chris Gunzz: Does Lucas want to answer that? Is he trying to involve a little bit more movement to the fight?

Mr. Eric Gomez: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Cuty Barrera: [Foreign Language Spoken].

Mr. Artie Pelullo: I don’t now what’s going on.

Mr. Eric Gomez: Yeah, he said, you know what? I think I understood him saying they’re working on the jab. He’s working on the jab a little bit, but he doesn’t want to give up too much information.

Mr. Chris Gunzz: Maybe he’s coming as a robot. He’s going to be had to beat if he does. And one quick question for Oscar. Oscar, when you finished laughing out loud, what did you end up saying through text or phone call to Gary Russell on Saturday night? I’m just playing. I’m just playing. I don’t want you to answer that. I know you’re a lot more professional. I just want to commend you on the great fights that you’re putting on and the great job you’re doing at Golden Boy. I do appreciate the great job you guys are doing–thank you–thank you, everyone.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Thank you.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Are we done, Marc?

Operator: We have no further questions, thank you, at this time.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Okay, so, I guess, Oscar, I want to thank you. Eric, Lucas Matthysse, Ruslan, and all of the reporters on board. See everybody–Oscar, I’d like you–I’ll let you finish up with the last word. I want to see everybody at the fight and I appreciate everything that is happening with this great event–thank you.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: Thank you–thank you very much, and, yeah, there’s really not much to say. We’ll see you April 18th. I mean sure fireworks. We are all excited and we’re just–it’s just a pleasure to be working with Artie Pelullo and his staff and everybody involved. So, watch it live on HBO Championship Boxing. There’s a few tickets left. So, it’s sure going to be a sell out and crowd there in New York. So, we’re excited and so we’ll see you soon–thank you.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: Oscar, if you’re around tomorrow, Wednesday, I’ll be in LA. Lunch is on me at In-N-Out Burger. Very important on the east coast–we don’t have them here.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: I’m actually in–I’ll be in New York, but I’ll take you up on that at another date–thank you, Artie.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: You got it. Have a good day, guys–thank you very much–anything else, Marc?

Mr. Marc Abrams: No.

Mr. Artie Pelullo: All right, thank you–bye bye–.

Mr. Oscar De La Hoya: –Bye–.

 

FACTS:      Matthysse vs. Provodnikov is a 12-round junior welterweight bout presented by Banner Promotions, Golden Boy Promotions in association withArano Boxing and is sponsored by Corona Extra, Mexico – Live It To Believe It! and Khortytsa Vodka. The HBO Boxing After Dark telecast begins at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

 

TICKETS:   The April 18 showdown between former World Champions Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse and “The Siberian Rocky” Ruslan Provodnikov proved to be a smashing success as all ringside seats have sold-out. Limited seats are still available , $35 and $25 and are available at the Turning Stone Resort Box Office by calling 315-361-7469 or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

Professional media requesting credentials for the April 18th fight must contact Kelly Abdo, Turning Stone Resort Casino Public Relations Manager at 315.366.9291 orkelly.abdo@turningstone.com.

 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.banner-promotions.comwww.hbo.com/boxing and www.turningstone.com follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @BannerBoxing, @HBOBoxing, @RuslanProvod, @ TurningStone and become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy FacebookPage, www.facebook.com/BannerPromotions, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing orwww.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort  and visit us on Instagram@GoldenBoyBoxing, @ bannerboxing, @ turningstone and @ruslanprovod.

SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO CHRONICLE THE MOST ANTICIPATED EVENT OF THE YEAR WITH “INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO”

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Four-Part Documentary Series To Include The Network’s Distinctive And Award-Winning “Epilogue” Episode; Series Premieres Saturday, April 18, Only On SHOWTIME®

 

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(Photo Credit: SHOWTIME)

NEW YORK (March 27, 2015) – SHOWTIME Sports® offers viewers exclusive access to Floyd “Money” Mayweather and the most anticipated event of the year with “INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO,” an intimate four-part documentary series chronicling the life of the perennial pound-for-pound champion as he navigates his collision course with Manny PacquiaoEpisode 1 premieres on Saturday, April 18 immediately following the liveSHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® doubleheader featuring Mexican superstar Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.

 

INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO delivers a unique perspective of the compelling and popular Mayweather in the weeks leading up to the biggest prizefight of this generation.  In the fourth installment, Epilogue, SHOWTIME Sports focuses the distinct and Sports Emmy Award-winning spotlight on the unpredictable drama of fight week, takes viewers inside the ropes on fight night, and into the mind of the fighter in the aftermath of the bout.

 

“SHOWTIME has set itself apart with its coverage of the biggest fights in boxing and our viewers have come to expect the unique access we provide,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports.  “INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO will not only welcome viewers into Mayweather’s camp before the fight, but also give viewers a window into those dramatic and often poignant moments immediately before and after this historic fight.”

 

SHOWTIME cameras are entrenched in Mayweather’s camp in the shadow of the bright lights of Las Vegas.  This unparalleled access allows INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO to peel back the curtain on Mayweather’s opulent public persona while revealing the unrelenting pursuit of perfection that propels the undefeated, undisputed champion.

 

From the red carpet spectacle of the kickoff press conference in Los Angeles and the rigors of training camp to the intensity of the weigh-in and the calm dressing room after the final bell, INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO offers an inside-out look at an event that has no rival.

 

Forty-seven fighters have stepped into the ring with Mayweather and all 47 have come away empty.  With complete access to Mayweather and the vast entourage that surrounds and supports him, viewers of INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO come to understand what makes “Money” tick.

 

INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO episodes premiere on SHOWTIME with multiple encore presentations, including the cable television premiere on CBS SPORTS NETWORK.  All episodes of the series will be available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and online at SHO.com/Sports.

 

Ø  Episode 1 premieres Saturday, April 18 on SHOWTIME, immediately following SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Chavez vs. Fonfara (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT).

Ø  Episode 2 premieres Saturday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME

Ø  Episode 3 premieres Wednesday, April 29 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME.

Ø  Epilogue premieres Saturday, May 9 on SHOWTIME

 

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About Showtime Networks Inc.:

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNELXTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD, THE MOVIE CHANNEL HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL ON DEMAND, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.