Tag Archives: James DeGale

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CHRIS EUBANK JR. SCORES CAREER-DEFINING VICTORY OVER JAMES DEGALE IN SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT GRUDGE MATCH SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM THE O2 IN LONDON

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Undefeated Heavyweights Joe Joyce Knocks Out Bermane Stiverne In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Opener


 
Watch The Encore Presentation Tonight At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®


 
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 For Photos; Credit: Ian Walton/SHOWTIME


 
LONDON – February 23, 2019 – Chris Eubank Jr. earned a career-defining victory with a hard-fought unanimous decision over British rival and former two-time world champion James DeGale in a super middleweight grudge match Saturday on SHOWTIME from The O2 in London. 


 
Eubank, the son of British boxing legend and former two-division world champion Chris Eubank Sr., floored DeGale twice en route to the clear decision, which was scored 114-112, 115-112, 117-109.  VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: https://s.sho.com/2E6mWI8


 
Working in his first bout with a full-time trainer, Eubank fought a controlled fight.  The former world title challenger floored DeGale in a rough moment in the second, stunning his rival with a big left hook against the ropes and flooring him moments later with a strong right cross that sent DeGale to the canvas for just the second fight of his career.


 
DeGale, who established his championship career as a slick southpaw, was unable to jab at range and couldn’t handle the constant pressure from Eubank.  The former Olympic Gold Medalist resorted to lunging from the outside and was largely ineffective on the inside, often clinching while in close quarters. 


 
“I knew he was going to come at me like that,” Eubank said.  “He’s a slick southpaw, but my game plan worked. Smart pressure and not getting too ahead of myself.  He’s a hell of a fighter, hell of a competitor but at the end of the day my head and my heart won this fight.”


 
“There was a lot of animosity leading to this fight.  I told him, ‘This is my time,’ and it was.  He’s a veteran of the game, he throws big shots and he manages to stay up.  To get up after those knockdowns is a statement about his tenacity and the type of fighter he is.”


 
The second knockdown came in the 10th as Eubank landed a powerful left hook that buckled DeGale with just 30 seconds left in the round.  Once again, DeGale tried to clinch to avoid the knockdown, but his hand touched the canvas and was ruled just the third knockdown of his career.


 
After the fight, DeGale, who was the first British fighter to earn an Olympic Gold Medal and a world championship, appeared to be leaning toward retirement. 


 
“I definitely I didn’t do enough,” DeGale said.  “He was on it and I didn’t do enough.  You have to do more than enough to counter someone that came forward like Chris. 


 
“I’m going to go back and talk to my team, my family, and decide.  I left my mark in boxing.  I won an Olympic Medal, two world titles and it may be the time to hang it up.”


 
While DeGale contemplates retirement, Eubank has his sights set on another shot at a world title. 


 
“This was the most important fight of my career, and I made a statement.  I’m back where I’m supposed to be, at the top of the food chain. I’m coming for all the belts in the middleweight and super middleweight division.  I’m fighting everyone they put in front of me.


 
“I’m glad to make my American debut here on SHOWTIME. I’m glad to be introduced to the American public this way – making a statement.”


 
In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader, undefeated heavyweight Joe Joyce kept his knockout record intact with a sixth-round TKO of former heavyweight world champion Bermane Stiverne.


 
After an exciting first round, Joyce opened up the action in the second with a monstrous straight right and unloaded from bell to bell against a defenseless Stiverne, who continued to punch back despite eating damaging shots.  After a series of combos in the opening minute of the third, Joyce caught Stiverne with a straight right hand to send him to the canvas for the fifth time in his professional career. Stiverne survived the round while throwing looping shots but failed to return any meaningful punches.


 
Joyce, the 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist, consistently set up a powerful straight right behind an accurate and effective left jab throughout the fight.  With Joyce (8-0, 8 KOs) continuing to tee off against a largely defenseless Stiverne, referee Howard Foster stepped in to halt the contest at 2:26 of the sixth.  Stiverne (25-4-1, 21 KOs) did not protest the stoppage.


 
“Big respect to Stiverne – like a true champion, he’s very tough and was still throwing shots, but I guess I was just a bit too much,” Joyce said.  “It was about being patient.  He’s such a tough guy that he took those shots no problem. 


 
“I was hitting him with everything I had, including the kitchen sink.  I listened to Abel (Sanchez) in the corner, did everything he said and it went well.  My jab was really effective.  I’m a seasoned vet. I picked up my poise and remained calm along the way.


 
“Big things are coming.  My next one will be for the WBA Regular (Title) and I’ll be back in the gym soon. I need to have a couple more fights like this and then I’ll be ready for the big champions.”


 
Highlights of former world champion Lee Selby’s lightweight debut were featured during Saturday’s telecast.  A former champion at featherweight, Selby (27-2, 9 KOs) overcame a second round accidental head butt to win a 12-round unanimous decision (116-112, 116-112, 115-114) over Omar Douglas (19-3, 13 KOs).


 
An encore presentation of Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader will air tonight/Saturday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME, Sunday at 9 a.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.


 
Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer hosted the doubleheader from London with versatile combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein.  Two Hall of Famers rounded out today’s telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr.  The Executive Producer was David Dinkins Jr. with Rick Phillips directing.  Saturday’s telecast was a co-production with ITV. 


 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,
 
subscribe to the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

 

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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JAMES DEGALE vs. CHRIS EUBANK JR. FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS FOR SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT SHOWDOWN THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHOWTIME® FROM THE O2 IN LONDON

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“It’s retirement time.  Whoever loses this fight is finished.” – DeGale


 
“There’s nothing he can do in that ring that I can’t handle.  I’m going to box his head off.” – Eubank


 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Begins Live At 3:45 p.m. ET/12:45 p.m. PT



Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Ian Walton/SHOWTIME


 

 
LONDON – February 21, 2019 – Former two-time super middleweight champion James DeGale and former world title challenger Chris Eubank Jr. faced off at the heated final press conference on Thursday for their 12-round showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING this Saturday, February 23 live on SHOWTIME (3:45 p.m. ET/12:45 p.m. PT) from The O2 in London.


 
DeGale (25-2-1, 15 KOs) and Eubank (27-2, 21 KOs) will finally settle their long-running score when the two outspoken rivals meet in London. In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature bout, Olympic Silver Medalist and top prospect Joe Joyce (7-0, 7 KOs) will measure against former WBC Champion Bermane Stiverne (25-3-1, 21 KOs) in a 12-round heavyweight clash.


 
Former two-division world champion, Chris Eubank Sr., was in attendance and not shy about stating this is not going to be an easy fight for his son. “This is a 50/50 fight and for the first time I am petrified of what the outcome can be.  I am petrified that Junior may not win this fight,” he said.


 
The event is promoted by Poxon Sports and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Joyce-Stiverne is promoted in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions. The doubleheader will air live in the U.S. exclusively on SHOWTIME and on ITV Box Office in the U.K.


 
Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will host the doubleheader from London with combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein.  Three Hall of Famers will round out the telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial ringside scorer, and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. 


 
Here’s what the fighters and their respective camps had to say during Thursday’s press conference at Intercontinental at The O2: 


 
JAMES DEGALE:

“I vacated my title for fights like this.  Chris Eubank has been calling my name for a long time and finally I get a chance to punch him in his face.


 
“I have no respect for him.  None.  This guy is a diluted idiot.  And on Saturday night I can’t wait to deal with him.  I’m going to come and give it to him properly.  He can’t box.  We’ve all heard this before. 


 
“This is the biggest fight of his career.  It’s retirement time.  Whoever loses this fight is finished.  It’s do or die on Saturday…His retirement fight is here.  It’s his last fight, I promise you that.


 
“I’m proven.  I’ve been there, done that.  I’ve won everything.  He’s done nothing.  And I’m going to retire him.


 
“Eubank is a tough fighter, he’s strong.  He has a lot of good attributes, but I’m too good for him.  To mix it up and go to the very top you need more than strength and toughness.  Every time he’s stepped up, he’s lost. 


 
“The fear of losing is because I know what’s on the line.  This is do or die.  If I can’t beat him, if I can’t beat Chris Eubank Jr., I’m done. 


 
“A lot of people think I’ve seen better days.  A lot of people think I’m on the decline.  I’ve had issues in the past, but I can honestly say I’m fully fit.  I’m in the best shape I’ve been for a long, long time, physical and mentally.  When I feel like I feel no one can beat me.


 
“If I can’t beat Chris that means I’m shot, that means I’m over the hill.”


 
CHRIS EUBANK JR.:

“This guy is a bum.  He talks a good game.  He’s going to have a good go, but at the end of the day I’m going to be too much for him. 


 
“We are both at a stage where we can’t lose.  We are both fighting for our careers.  He knows he can’t handle me.  He’s asking himself, ‘Can I survive?’  And the answer is absolutely not.


 
“There’s nothing he can do in that ring that I can’t handle.  I’m going to box his head off. 


 
“I’ve got a full time trainer now.  For the first time in my career, I have a trainer day in and day out focusing on strategy to prepare me for what James is – a slick southpaw.  That’s why I’m so confident.  If he wants to run, we have the gameplan.  If he wants to stand and swing, we have the gameplan.  We have a plan for everything. 


 
“What matters is that James’ career is over in a few days.  I sent him a message after he lost to [George] Groves saying he needs to keep up because we are going to fight one day.  And now that we’re finally here I look into his eyes and I don’t see a confident guy. 


 
“It’s my time.  I’m expecting the best he’s ever been and that’s still not going to be enough. 


 
“I’m a world-level fighter.  Anyone in the boxing game knows that.  This is my opportunity to prove that once and for all to set the record straight and prove I’m the real deal.  I know this is a defining fight in my career.  It is do or die and I’m ready for that. 


 
“James knows what’s coming.  At the end of the day, his last performances haven’t been up to par, but i don’t think he respected his [past] opponents.  He respects me, and I respect him and that’s why this is a real fight.


 
“I’ve been in the game for a long time but this is just the beginning of a long journey for me.  This is my biggest fight.  I have to win.  If I win, I’m back on the world stage.  Beating James DeGale sets me up for a world title which is the whole reason I started in this game.”


 

 
JIM MCDONNELL:

“There are levels to boxing.  Chris was a good prospect coming through but he’s not on the same level as James.  He’ll find out what it takes to be a world champion.  James DeGale is levels above Chris Jr.


 
“Chris may have all the drive he needs but he doesn’t have the skills to beat James DeGale. 


 
“I know James is not losing.  James DeGale is probably the best British fighter I’ve seen in my country.”


 

 
CHRIS EUBANK SR.:

“I’ve seen the pinnacle of James and it’s intoxicating. With Chris, not everything I’ve said has been applied.  It may have been heard, but not applied.  What I said works. I wouldn’t have 19 championship wins if it didn’t. 


 
“I’m not convinced [Chris will win] because James DeGale has pedigree.  Being an [Olympic] Gold Medalist and former world champion is real.  I respect the man’s abilities.  Junior hasn’t. 


 
“My son looks at the physical aspect of boxing and, from a physical point of view, I don’t think there is anyone who can stand with him.  But boxing isn’t just physical – it’s also spiritual, and that’s where Junior lacks.  I don’t know whether he has that. 


 
“This is a 50/50 fight and for the first time I am petrified of what the outcome can be.  I am petrified that Junior may not win this fight. 


 
“This is the wisdom of someone who has been here.  You never underestimate your opponent based on past performances.  Anyone who thinks this guy is on a slide because of past performances is making a mistake. 


 
“From a physical aspect, Junior has the upper hand.  From a spiritual aspect and pedigree aspect, James has the upper hand, and that’s why this is a 50/50 fight.


 
“I do know Chris has learned and let’s see what is produced.  It can be a brilliant fight.”


 

 
PAULIE MALIGNAGGI:

“I like our chances.  I know the guy that I have been in camp with.  The things I’ve seen, I like. They are much more positive this time around. 


 
“You can’t underestimate a guy like Eubank.  He always comes to win.  But, regardless of the gameplan, there is a certain mentality and my guy has it.  He’s a Gold Medalist and he knows what mentality to bring on Saturday.


 
“James has won two major world titles, an Olympic Gold Medal.  Chris has had some good wins but when he went to that elite level, he lost.  Chris is a good fighter but he’s not beaten this level of opposition.”


 
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SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO PRESENT HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT BETWEEN JAMES DeGALE AND CHRIS EUBANK JR. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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Two-Fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Telecast Includes Heavyweight Prospect Joe Joyce vs. Veteran Bermane Stiverne; Live On SHOWTIME And The Network’s Streaming Service

 

NEW YORK – February 6, 2019 – SHOWTIME Sports will present the highly anticipated super middleweight matchup between fierce British rivals James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr. Saturday, February 23 live on SHOWTIME from London’s The O2. In the co-featured bout, fast rising prospect Joe Joyce battles former world champion Bermane Stiverne in a 12-round heavyweight clash. The event will air live on air and via the networks’ streaming service at a start time to be announced.


 
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions on ITV in the U.K. and promoted by Poxon Sports. The co-feature bout is promoted in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions.

 

DeGale (25-2-1, 15 KOs) and Eubank (27-2, 21 KOs) will finally settle their long-running score when the two outspoken rivals finally go toe-to-toe in front of the excitable hometown London crowd in the all-British affair.

 

The 33-year-old DeGale was the first British boxer to win a Gold Medal in the Olympics and a world championship as a professional. He won his world title with a unanimous decision over Andre Dirrell in 2015 and made two successful defenses before fighting to a draw against Badou Jack in 2017. DeGale avenged his December 2017 loss to Caleb Truax to reclaim his IBF Super Middleweight belt in April 2018 on SHOWTIME. After voluntarily vacating the belt, DeGale stopped veteran Fidel Munoz his last time out.

 

The 29-year-old Eubank Jr., the son of former two-division world champion Chris Eubank, is highly motivated to challenge for more world titles after he lost a unanimous decision to George Groves for the WBA Super Middleweight belt one year ago. The rivalry between DeGale and Eubank has been brewing for several years after a series of run-ins. The duo has sparred each other in the gym and have traded several verbal jabs on social media. Eubank, who has been training in Las Vegas at the Mayweather Boxing Club, has won nine out of his last ten fights and has registered knockouts in eight of those wins.

 

The 6-foot-6 Joyce, of London, England, has started his professional career with a 100 percent KO rate after turning professional in 2017 at the age of 32. An accomplished amateur, Joyce claimed the super heavyweight silver medal for Great Britain at the 2016 Olympic Games. Joyce, who trains in Big Bear, Calif. under renowned trainer Abel Sanchez, knocked out Joe Hanks at 2:25 of round one in his last fight on the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury undercard.

 

Stiverne (25-3-1, 21 KOs), who was the first ever Haiti-born boxer to own a piece of the heavyweight crown, won the WBC title with a convincing sixth-round TKO over Chris Arreola in 2014. Stiverne then lost the belt in his next fight against Deontay Wilder, despite becoming the first fighter to take the current American champion the distance. The 40-year-old has not fought since his loss in the 2017 rematch against Wilder but is anxious to bounce back with a statement win over the highly regarded Joyce. 
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JOYCE FACES ACID TEST AGAINST STIVERNE AT THE O2

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Undefeated British sensation Joe Joyce faces Former World Champion Bermane Stiverne

Defends Commonwealth title alongside return of Former World Champion Lee Selby on massive DeGale v Eubank Jr. card, LIVE on ITV Box Office

Fast rising star makes fearless move in just EIGHTH pro fight to fast track towards World Title

Stiverne says it will be Joyce’s nightmare when he gets knocked out 

Legendary promoter Don King promises to ‘Re Joyce’ when Stiverne recreates McCall victory over Lewis in London 

London (23 January 2019) Poxon Sports and PBC are delighted to announce that heavyweight sensation Joe Joyce will defend his Commonwealth title in the biggest test of his unbeaten career when he takes a gigantic leap up to confront the Former WBC World Champion Bermane Stiverne on Saturday 23rd February at The O2, exclusively live on ITV Box Office.

Joyce vs. Stiverne, promoted by Poxon Sports in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions, will feature alongside the return of Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby as one of the chief-supporting contests on an action-packed show, headlined with the thrilling all-British clash between fierce rivals James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr.

The 6ft 6in ‘Juggernaut’ from Putney, South West London, has destroyed all seven of his opponents since turning professional in October 2017 after capturing the Silver medal at the Rio Olympics and has singled himself out as one of the most feared talents in the heavyweight division.

It’s a monumental test for Joyce to be facing a former World Champion in just his eighth fight, the rock-solid and sledge-hammer hitting Stiverne, born in Montreal, Canada, of Haitian descent and based out of Las Vegas, has fought some of the biggest and best in the division, including Deontay Wilder and Chris Arreola.

The fight has added bad blood thrown in resulting from a sparring session between Joyce and Stiverne in which Joyce was angered by comments from Stiverne in an interview afterwards when he said he took Joyce to school.

Joyce said, “I had respect for Bermane Stiverne. We sparred in Las Vegas; he said he took me to school in an interview etc, it got ugly and it made this fight happen. I tried to be respectful of him, but he’s rude and was having none of it. He is a former World Champion that has gone 12 rounds with Deontay Wilder and will give me a real challenge; but my engine and my power will be too much for him, a fact he should be aware of!”

Joyce’s promoter Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports, said, “After only seven fights Joe Joyce has become the number five ranked Heavyweight in the world. But the spectacular way in which he has won all of his seven fights by knockout have made him the number one fan favourite in the Heavyweight Division. Taking on the heavy-handed Former World Champion Stiverne shows that no challenge is too big for Joe as he continues to march towards the Heavyweight World Championship. Simply put: Joe Joyce has become must see TV, so make sure to tune in on February 23 or come and watch him live at the O2 in London!”

Stiverne said, “I told my promoter Don King to get me any man on earth and I will fight for the right to prove myself to the world. Then the phone rings, it’s Don, he tells me Joe Joyce – a boxer with only seven bouts – agrees to meet me! ‘Seven bouts?’. Seven fights and he has the audacity to box me? I have stopped Chris Arreola, Ray Austin, the then undefeated Kerston Manswell – and a boxer with seven fights wants to box me?!.’ I said to Don ‘Sign it, take it, grab it,’ I’m ready. Seven fights – and he wants to box me? For me it is a dream come true – but for Joyce it will be a nightmare. I will knock out Joe Joyce and step over him to KO Anthony Joshua. I’m primed and ready. The real Bermane Stiverne will be there on February 23 and will knock out Joe Joyce en route to regaining my heavyweight crown.”

Stiverne’s legendary promoter Don King, added, “It is with my greatest pleasure that Don King Productions can announce our return to Jolly Old England – the ‘Cradle of Boxing” where my pugilistic giant – the Former Heavyweight Champion of the World Bermane Stiverne begins his comeback at the expense of the Giant Joe Joyce. Unfortunately, for the local fans of Joe there will no ‘re Joycing’ – as my once – and future champion Bermane Stiverne will slay Joyce just like St. George did the dragon of old. But no matter, we will pick up the pieces and bring back Joyce just as I have brought back and helped build many a future together. I recall when I came here with Oliver McCall and he was given no chance against Lennox Lewis. Then the underdog became the top dog when Oliver KO’d the previously unbeaten champ and we went home with the title. History will repeat itself of February 23 when Bermane sends another undefeated Englishman to defeat. Now retooled, resuscitated, renewed, rejuvenated and recommitted Bermane Stiverne will resurrect his career on February 23 when the ‘Lord of Ring” crushes the “Lord of the World” – ‘Juggernaut” Joyce on his inexorable march to regain the heavyweight championship of the world. Bless all British fans, God Save the Queen – but heaven help Joe Joyce! We will see you on February 23rd.”

WBC World Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder also put forward his thoughts on the intriguing match up, he said, “Joe Joyce will be a good test for him (Stiverne). I’ve seen Joe Joyce before. He’s a good fighter. Joe Joyce fought Joe Hanks on my undercard with Tyson Fury but I didn’t get a chance to see him fight that night. But I’m looking forward to seeing him against Stiverne.”

Richard Poxon, UK Promoter for PBC, said, “I’ve known Joe from his amateur days up in Sheffield. His success at the Olympics didn’t surprise me at all. He’s transitioned well to the pros now and is clearly in a hurry. The heavyweight division is the one that everyone is looking at again and I fully expect Joe to be in the thick of the action in the coming year. Taking on a former WBC World Champion in only your eighth fight clearly shows what Joe’s ambitions are.”

Since embarking on his pro career in his quest to become World Heavyweight Champion, the quietly spoken Joyce has let his destructive fists do the talking in making bold statements to make the boxing world sit up and take notice of the fast-rising star.

In October 2017 he astounded critics when he choose to fight the hardened Former British title challenger Ian Lewison, who had just extended big-punching Dillian Whyte to ten rounds, for his pro-debut and pounded him down in eight rounds. 

Then in only his fourth fight with only 12 rounds under his belt and inside seven months of turning pro, Joyce demolished the Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Lenroy Thomas in just two rounds – setting a new record by heavyweight boxer to win the Commonwealth belt.

In his last fight, American fights fans got a brief taster of what the British star is all about when he smashed through Joe Hanks in a round to win the WBA Continental title at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles in making his glittering U.S debut.

J

oyce, now ranked #5 in the world by the WBA and progressing quickly towards a World Title shot, faces unquestionably his sternest career test to date against the vastly experienced and equally big-hitting Las Vegas based Haitian who has knocked out 21 opponents of his 25 wins in his 29 fight career.

Stiverne formerly held the WBC crown for two years after defeating Chris Arreola on points in April 2013 to win the title and then in the rematch destroying him inside six rounds in the first defence of the title in May 2014.

The rock solid Stiverne then pushed the dynamite-punching Deontay Wilder the full twelve round distance in the next defence of his WBC World Heavyweight title clash in January 2015. Stiverne became the first man to take Wilder beyond who at that point had obliterated all his opponents inside four rounds. In the rematch nearly three years later, Stiverne stepped in at the last minute when Wilder’s original opponent Luis Ortiz failed a drugs test and due to his inactivity was stopped in a round.

Stiverne is now looking to return to the elite heavyweight mix and a victory over Joyce would propel him back into the limelight and on course towards a potential world title opportunity.

Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality fromwww.sportandmusic.co.uk.

This fight will be shown exclusively on ITV Box Office. For further information and updates, please go to www.itvboxoffice.com 

Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK.

The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK. The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivalled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US. PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States. 

The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office.

This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open. rell, ‘����Gb�

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DeGALE v EUBANK JR ANNOUNCED FOR 23 FEBRUARY; FIRST MAJOR UK EVENT FOR ITV AND PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

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James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr will clash at London’s O2 on 23 February in the first major UK event of the new deal between ITV and Haymon Sports’ Premier Boxing Champions, it has been announced. 

The Super Middleweight match, to be screened exclusively live on ITV Box Office, will take place against a backdrop of hostility between two fighters who have long made no secret of their mutual dislike and are relishing the prospect of settling their differences in the ring.

James DeGale has already fired off an opening shot in the direction of his opponent. 

He said: “Really excited and looking forward to being back home to a fight of this magnitude.  “I believe Eubank doesn’t have the pedigree, the size and skill to beat me.  “Eubank is a decent fighter but every time he has stepped up he has been found out. He has called my name for a long time so now I’ve finally got my chance to zip his lips.”

Eubank Jr responded in kind, saying: “DeGale is going to get the schooling of his career. A good old-fashioned hiding.”

Poxon Sport is the promoter of DeGale v Eubank Jr, as the exclusive promoter of all UK PBC events on ITV. 

The fighters faced off at the Hotel Café Royal, in London on Thursday, January 3rd. Live streaming of the press conference was hosted by ITV’s Gabriel Clarke on the ITV Box Office Facebook page and Youtube channel. 

Full details of the undercard and how to access this ITV Box Office PPV event across all platforms will be announced and made available in due course. For updated and further information, please go to  www.itvboxoffice.com Tickets for the fight go on sale on Friday 4 January at midday to O2 members and to the wider public at midday on Monday 7 January. Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality from www.sportandmusic.co.uk.

News of the DeGale v Eubank Jr showdown follows the announcement at the end of December of two major world title fights to be shown free to air on ITV4 as part of the broad scope of the ITV and PBC deal. 

On Sunday, January 13, Jose Uzcategui defends his IBF Super Middleweight World Championship against unbeaten top challenger Caleb Plant.  Coverage will come live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. 

The following weekend, on 19 January, ITV4’s coverage will come live from Las Vegas where Manny Pacquiao will defend his WBA world welterweight title against Adrien Broner.  The exclusive ITV4 coverage will also include the much-anticipated showdown between Badou Jack and Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight title.  

Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK. The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK.

The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivaled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US.

PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States.   The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office. 

This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open. 

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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.

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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.”

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

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

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Erislandy Lara vs. Jarrett Hurd Fight Week Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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World Champions Square-Off in 154-Pound Title Unification that Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING TripleheaderSaturday, April 7 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas

 

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

 

 

 

LAS VEGAS (April 4, 2018) – World champions Erislandy Lara and Jarrett Hurd began fight week with a media workout in Las Vegas Wednesday before their 154-pound world title unification that headlines action this Saturday, April 7 live on SHOWTIME from Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

 

Also in attendance Wednesday was super middleweight world champion Caleb Truax, who rematches former champion James DeGale in the co-featured attraction. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with a 154-pound title eliminator between Julian Williams and Nathaniel Gallimore, who were also at the Mayweather Boxing Club Wednesday for the media workout.

 

 

 

 

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 fighters had to say Wednesday:

 

 

 

 

ERISLANDY LARA

 

 

 

 

“Everything in training went how it was supposed to. We did our job and now it’s time to fight. I did everything in the gym that I needed to prepare for anything that Hurd can bring.

 

 

 

 

“All of my opponents are taller than me. His size means nothing to me. I have the experience and I’m the best boxer in the division. He’s never seen anything like me.

 

 

 

 

“He has to beat me to get the top spot in this division. I’m here to make sure that doesn’t happen.

 

 

 

 

“I’ve earned everything in this sport the hard way. I’ve fought the tough fights for no money. I think everyone knows how talented I am and that I belong up there with the best in the sport.

 

 

 

 

“I don’t watch film in training camp. A fighter can look one way on video, but totally different in the ring. He has to prepare for what I’m doing. I’m not worried about what he brings. I saw a little bit of his fight against Trout while I was warming up to fight Terrell Gausha, but that’s about it.”

 

 

 

 

JARRETT HURD

 

 

 

 

“There was something in me that always wanted this fight. Once I defended my title against Austin Trout, I was quick to get on top of this opportunity.

 

 

 

 

“This is going to be a difficult fight. Lara is the type of fighter who has a lot of experience. It won’t be easy so I have to be well prepared and on top of my game come Saturday night.

 

 

 

 

“We’ve been in the gym working a lot on our hand movement and footwork. I took too many punches against Trout and I knew what it was going to take to make those improvements.

 

 

 

 

“Every fight is the most important fight of my career because I’m protecting this undefeated record. This is going to be a tough fight but I promise I’m going to give it my all and bring it to Lara all night long.

 

 

 

 

“Being back in Vegas and back at Hard Rock where I beat Frank Galarza to really get this whole journey started means a lot to me. I’m planning to give everyone a great show just like I always do.

 

 

 

 

“No matter what kind of fight he brings; I’m going to stick to my game plan. He has to fight at my pace. No matter what he comes with, I’m going to be in charge in the ring.

 

 

 

 

“It’s always going to be fireworks when I’m in the ring. I have a fan-friendly style. At the end of the day, you don’t have to worry about Lara running away, because I’m going to be in his face for 12 rounds.”

 

 

 

 

CALEB TRUAX

 

 

 

 

“I think DeGale has been making excuses. He couldn’t stop talking about how great his shoulder felt heading into our first fight. Then right after the fight he said he felt fine. Now I guess he came back too early. He was in a tough fight not too long ago, so we’ll see how he is on Saturday night.

 

 

 

 

 

“I’m prepared for a better James DeGale. I took his belt and I know he’s going to come back hungry. I expect him to give it his all to get it back. He’ll be in top form.

 

 

 

 

“As far as I know, I’m still an underdog for this fight. A lot of people think I was a fluke the first time around, so it’s up to me to prove them wrong. I’m ready to silence the critics and silence DeGale.

 

 

 

 

“I felt like I was going to win the whole time, but a lot of people said it was one of the biggest upsets in British boxing history. It still hasn’t really sunk in. Nothing has really changed. I’m a busier man but I still keep it really low key.

 

 

 

 

“Boxing isn’t a huge sport in Minneapolis because it’s such a great sports scene. Hopefully my win on Saturday and Jamal James on April 13 on PBC on FS1 will get some more kids into the gyms.

 

 

 

 

“There were plenty of things that I had to improve on after the first fight. I’ve had four months to really dig down and prepare for this fight. I’ve known the rematch was coming and I’ve been able to get ready.”

 

 

 

 

JULIAN WILLIAMS

 

 

 

 

“I had a really good camp. I really was just focused on getting better and moving forward in my career. I got a lot of great rounds in with some quality fighters and it was a really productive camp.

 

 

 

 

“I love fighting in Las Vegas. The electricity is always there and the fans are always welcoming. I love putting on a show for these fans.

 

 

 

 

“I think Gallimore has performed decently against the competition he’s had. He got beat by a journeyman and had a draw with another journeyman. He seems to have gotten hot at the right time, but we’ll see if he brings it on Saturday night.

 

 

 

 

“He’s backing himself into a corner. He has to back up those words he’s saying. Overall I think he’s a solid fighter, a good test and it should be an entertaining fight.

 

 

 

 

“He said he’s going to knock me out, but that’s really the only way he could possibly win. One lucky punch. That’s all he’s banking on. I’m going to out class him and out dog him.

 

 

 

 

“I’ve always known I had guts, I’ve always known I’m a really good fighter with all the tools to become a world champion. I didn’t need to learn anything about myself after the loss, I just had to correct some things and move forward.”

 

 

 

 

NATHANIEL GALLIMORE

 

 

 

 

“I feel great right now, I’m ready for the world to see the improved ‘Nate The Great’. I treat every fight like a world championship fight. Julian Williams has nothing for me. He has to worry about what I bring to the table. On Saturday night, it’s going to be judgement day. The truth will come out.

 

 

 

 

“This fight means a lot to me. This is what I’ve been dreaming about since I was a little kid. This is my chance to become great. I’m going to show the world I’m a different beast in the 154-pound division.

 

 

 

 

“I’m bringing total domination for this fight. I don’t care what he’s training for. He could be training on Mars. He has to get up to my level. I’m tearing him apart.

 

 

 

 

“I’m taking this fight so seriously. Julian Williams is quiet now, but he was loud before he fought Jermall Charlo. He has to figure out who he is. I’m going to show the whole world.

 

 

 

 

 

“The game plan is to show off my whole arsenal. We’ve covered everything in the gym. I’m a different animal. Everyone in this division better look out for me. They’re going to have to crown me real soon.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Julian Williams Training Camp Notes

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Super Welterweight Contender Takes on Nathaniel Gallimore Saturday, April 7 in 154-Pound Title Eliminator Live on SHOWTIME from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas

 

 

 

SAN CARLOS, CA (March 30, 2018) – Top super welterweight contender Julian “J-Rock” Williams will look to put himself closer to another world title shot when he faces Nathaniel Gallimore in a 154-pound world title eliminator Saturday, April 7 live on SHOWTIME from Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas.

 

 

 

The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by Erislandy Lara, the longest reigning world champion at 154-pounds, clashing with undefeated champion Jarrett Hurd in a highly anticipated 154-pound world title unification bout. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features super middleweight world champion Caleb Truax in a rematch against former champion James DeGale.

 

 

 

The 12-round IBF title eliminator gives Williams a chance to earn a second world title fight, while it would be Gallimore’s first shot at the title. Gallimore has been outspoken in his belief that he will stop Williams, but Williams has chosen to not let the words affect him and focus on the task at hand.

 

 

 

“I have no reaction to the talk coming from Gallimore,” said Williams. “He’s trying to draw attention to himself and doing it in a classless way. If he wants a back-and-forth, he’s going to be talking to himself.

 

 

 

“He seems like he’s a strong fighter, but you never really know until you step in the ring with a guy. He’s on a hot streak, he’s a big puncher and obviously he has a lot of confidence. We thought this would be a good test and I think it’s going to be a great fight for the fans.”

 

 

 

Williams is currently finishing up training camp at the SNAC gym in San Carlos, California with trainer Stephen Edwards. In addition to work in the first part of training in Philadelphia with DeCarlo Perez and Jaron Ennis, he has sparred with the likes of Peter Quillin, Prenice Brewer and Joey Spencer in California.

 

 

 

“I’ve been coming out to California for parts of camp since 2014 and it’s really just something that gives me a bit of a spark heading into the fight,” said Williams. “There are some elevation and recovery aspects of training that we can do out here. It’s also a good way to get away from things and really dig to another level.”

 

 

 

Williams has been on the road back to title contention after dropping his first title shot to Jermall Charlo in 2016. Williams knew that he did not need to revamp his entire game and has recovered with victories over former champion Ishe Smith and Joshua Conley leading into this fight.

 

 

 

“I thought I was doing well in the Charlo fight so I never pushed the panic button after it didn’t go my way,” said Williams. “Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. The plan was always to improve each fight and each day in camp, so that’s what we’re still doing. We’ll see on April 7 if it’s enough.”

 

 

 

With an opponent who enters this fight on a seven-fight knockout streak, Williams knows he will have to use all of his physical and mental skills to pull out the victory.

 

 

 

“It’s going to be up to me what this fight looks like,” said Williams. “In the ring you have to be mature. I can’t get drawn into the kind of fight that he wants. If I stay focused, I should dominate him.

 

 

 

“I’m never going to look past anybody. I know that there’s nothing I can do in my future in this sport if I don’t beat Gallimore. I’m ready to go in there and look impressive on April 7.”

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

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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/SHOBoxing  and  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Hard-Hitting Alfredo Angulo Takes on Former Champion Sergio Mora in Super Middleweight Clash & Unbeaten Emanuel Medina Battles Saul Corral in Undercard Attractions on Saturday April 7 From Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas

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Premier Boxing Champions Event Headlined by Erislandy Lara vs. Jarrett Hurd 154-Pound World Title Unification

 

 

 

LAS VEGAS – (March 30, 2018) – The always exciting Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo squares off against former world champion Sergio “The Latin Snake” Mora in an eight-round super middleweight battle while unbeaten Emanuel Medina (13-0, 9 KOs) battles Saul Corral (27-10, 18 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight clash as part of undercard action Saturday, April 7 at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas.

 

 

 

The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by Erislandy Lara, the longest reigning world champion at 154-pounds, clashing with undefeated champion Jarrett Hurd in a highly anticipated 154-pound world title unification bout. The co-main event will see Caleb Truax will defend his 168-pound title against James DeGale in a rematch. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features Julian Williams and Nathaniel Gallimore meeting in a 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.

 

 

 

The action continues as Ava Knight (14-2-4, 5 KOs) meets Mayela Perez (19-21, 10 KOs) in six-round flyweight bout and Ahmed Mahmood (7-0-1, 3 KOs) takes on Sharone Carter (8-2, 2 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight match.

 

 

 

Angulo (24-6, 20 KOs), a rugged veteran with a resume that includes battles with world champions like Erislandy Lara and Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, is looking to rebound from a knockout loss to Freddy Hernandez in his last fight. Angulo was born in Mexicali, Mexico but lives and trains in California.

 

 

 

Mora (28-5-2, 9 KOs) is a former 154-pound champion who has clashed with some of the biggest names in boxing during his career, including Shane Mosley, Vernon Forrest and Daniel Jacobs. In his last fight the 37-year-old Mora of Los Angeles lost by TKO to Jacobs in a middleweight championship rematch.

 

 

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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/SHOBoxing  and  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.