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EPIX® Sets Premiere Date for The Contender, Reveals 16 Fighters Vying for the Champion Belt

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Mark Burnett’s 12-Episode Boxing Competition Series

From MGM Television and Paramount Television Set to Premiere on August 24

LOS ANGELES – JUNE 27, 2018 – Premium pay television network EPIX® has announced the 16 fighters who will be facing off with one another for the championship belt on the revival of boxing franchise series The Contender this fall. The highly anticipated 12-episode season, from MGM Television and Paramount Television, will premiere on EPIX on Aug. 24, 2018 at 10 PM ET/PT.

 

 

 

Hosted by undefeated boxing champion Andre “Son of God” Ward, the first-of-its-kind competitive documentary series for the network will feature 16 fighters pushing their limits in grueling elimination-style fights and testing their grit and determination to achieve their boxing dreams. The fighters will be overseen by legendary boxing coach Freddie Roach, and renowned Philadelphia trainer Naazim Richardson.

 

 

 

“The Contender takes unscripted TV to its grittiest. It has incredible professional fighters and real professional fights.  The edge of your seat drama and true stories sets a tone that our audiences will be expecting and I love it,” said Mark Burnett, President of MGM Television.

 

 

 

“With this new iteration of The Contender, the focus is on the gritty, personal stories of the fighters battling for boxing glory,” said Michael Wright, President, EPIX. “It was important for us to find individuals who not only displayed the boxing chops and resilience in the ring, but who also showed a depth of heart and humor outside of it. Our 16 fighters are vivacious, tough, funny, sensitive, driven and inspiring, and we are excited for our fans to get to know their stories and root for them inside the ring and out.”

 

 

 

The 16 Contenders come from a wide variety of professional boxing backgrounds and stations in life, bringing their unique stories, personalities, strengths and motivations to the series.

 

 

 

Each fighter will be vying to be declared the new 160-pound middleweight champion of The Contender and take home the winner’s six-figure purse — a prize, which, for all the fighters, represents a better life for their families and loved ones who have been there with them through all the ups and downs of their journeys.

 

 

 

The 16 fighters on The Contender this season are:

 

 

  • Ievgen “The Ukranian Lion” Khytrov, Age: 29, Rank: 20, Hometown: Brooklyn, N.Y.– A Ukrainian immigrant, Olympian, Ievgen Khytrov recently relocated to America to pursue his dream of becoming a world champion and to create a better life for his family. A dedicated, quiet, religious man. He’s also the one to beat.

 

 

  • Eric “Babyface Assassin” Walker, Age: 34, Rank: 68, Hometown: Plaquemine, La. – Incarcerated at 15 years old and spent 14 years behind bars for robbery and attempted murder, Eric “Babyface Assassin” Walker learned to box while in prison. He is now fighting for a second chance at life, living proof that it’s never too late to live out your dreams.

 

 

  • John “Apollo Kid” Thompson, Age: 29, Rank: 70, Hometown: Newark, N.J. – After losing his mother to AIDS at six years old, this married performing artist, painter and fighter, John “Apollo Kid” Thompson is here to prove to the world that he can’t be boxed into a single category despite holding impressive titles including the 2015 WBA-NABA Super Welterweight, WBO Inter-Continental Super Welterweight and Boxcino Tournaments.

 

  • Malcolm “The Punisher” McAllister, Age: 27, Rank: 172, Hometown: Long Beach, Calif. –Always at the center of schoolyard fights growing up, Malcolm “The Punisher” McAllister now channels his energy into helping others rebuild outside of foreclosure and his young, growing family. In boxing has built an impressive KO record and the 2014 Golden Gloves title on his journey to take the title of The Contender.

 

 

  • Brandon “The Cannon” Adams, Age: 28, Rank: Inactive, Hometown: Los Angeles, Calif. – A bold fighter in the ring, Brandon “The Cannon” Adams knows firsthand what it means to push through adversity and step up to care for his family when there’s no one else around to. Coming from a poverty stricken neighborhood, this larger than life father of two marks his return to boxing after a three year hiatus, initiated by a loss to fellow competitor, John Thompson.

 

  • Quatavious “Cash” Cash, Age: 26, Rank: 161, Hometown: Las Vegas, Nev. – This Atlanta native is the current record-holder for fastest KO in Georgia, a four0time Golden Gloves state champ and Bronze medalist. Quatavious Cash is fighting for his late mother and for the chance to prove that a life of fighting street gangs can be channeled for good.

 

 

  • Shane “Sugarman” Mosley, Jr., Age: 27, Rank: 149, Hometown: Santa Monica, Calif. – The lone single contender, son of legendary Hall of Fame boxer “Sugar” Shane Mosley, Shane “Sugarman” Mosley Jr. is fighting to step out of his father’s shadow and carve out his own legacy.

 

  • Daniel “El Chapulin” Valdivia, Age: 25, Rank: 116, Hometown: Tulare, Calif. – A natural salesman and real estate agent by day, nicknamed “El Chapulin” (“Grasshopper”) for his boundless energy, Mexican immigrant Daniel Valdivia was born to step into the ring. With several titles including the NABF Super Welterweight Champion as an underdog, he’s chasing fame to prove giving up college for boxing was the right move.

 

 

  • Michael “The Silverback” Moore, Age: 31, Rank: 252, Hometown:Cleveland, Oh. – Reformed from a hard life on the streets, fraught with drugs, death and family suicide, Michael Moore is a natural hustler and leader. Married with two kids, Moore is constantly moving from state to state with his family in tow in pursuit of the boxing dream.

 

  • Gerald “G5” Sherrell, Age: 24, Rank: 216, Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa. – A fan of the original Contenderseries growing up, Gerald “G5” Sherrell is an undefeated and explosive fighter with a level of unrivaled and self-proclaimed swagger. Hailing from the projects, this multiple time Golden Gloves, Silver Gloves and Junior Olympic competitor, this local zoo security guard by day, and young father by night, is looking to bring boxing glory back to his hometown of Pittsburgh.

 

 

  • Morgan “Big Chief” Fitch, Age: 34, Rank: 154, Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa. – Injury-plagued throughout his career, the Native American hailing from Southern Louisiana is a married father of three. Knowing that he’s old for the sport, Morgan “Big Chief” Fitch has one last shot at making his boxing dreams come true.

 

  • Marcos “Mad Man” Hernandez, Age: 24, Rank: 104, Hometown: Fresno, Calif. – Having been bullied from a young age after an accident left him with burns on 30 percent of his body, Marcos “Mad Man” Hernandez is fighting for his young autistic son, in hopes that he won’t be bullied the same way he was. With Junior Olympics, 2012 Blue and Gold titles and “Mexican-go-forward” style fighting he may be overlooked and underestimated.

 

 

  • Tyrone “Young Gun” Brunson, Age: 33, Rank: 39, Hometown: Philadelphia, PA – At a time when he needed to sell drugs to support himself at the age of 13, a stepfather’s ultimatum: be grounded or go to the boxing gym was his saving grace. Now a humble father of two, and sitting with one of the best rankings in the competition, his 24 KO’s send a signal that he will not fight silently but his cocky attitude has beat him more than just once.

 

  • Lamar “Omega” Russ, Age: 31, Rank: 115, Hometown: Wilmington, N.C. -One of four kids raised by a single mom and the first person in his family to graduate college, Lamar “Omega” Russ takes pride in being the underdog, and beneath the loud exterior is a boxer that needs to prove he can put his money where his mouth is. HBO, ESPN and a first round KO on Showtime do all the talking.

 

 

  • John “The Rock” Jackson, Age: 29, Rank: 63, Hometown: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands – A divorced father of two, this slick and agile boxer, Virgin Islander John “The Rock” Jackson started fighting at 12 years old, following in his world champion father Julian Jackson’s footsteps at the Pan American Games and 2008 Olympics. He comes from wealth but cares for the underprivileged and dreams of making his island proud bringing visibility to those struck by recent natural disasters.

 

  • Devaun “Unique” Lee, Age: 30, Rank: 82, Hometown: Jamaica Queens, N.Y.

When one of his friends was shot and killed at 16, Devaun “Unique” Lee knew he needed a way out from the mean streets of Queens. Boxing keeps him straight. So do long hours fueling airplanes and caring for his five year old daughter. The real love of his life. Fatherhood and the sport are the motivation to take his NY State Middleweight championship to the next level.

 

 

The original Contender series ran for four seasons (2005-2009) and launched multiple fighters into contention for world titles, including title winners Sergio Mora, Cornelius Bundrage, Sakio Bika, and Sam Soliman.

 

 

Eric Van Wagenen serves as executive producer and showrunner of the revived franchise alongside Mark Burnett. The format is owned by MGM Television and Paramount Television.

 

 

EPIX is available nationwide through cable, satellite, telco and streaming TV providers including Charter Spectrum, Cox, Verizon FiOS, AT&T U-verse, Dish Network, Sling, PlayStation Vue and, as of June 13, Comcast.

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Undefeated and number-one ranked Julian “J Rock” Williams ready for Jermall Charlo next

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PHILADELPHIA (MAY 31, 2016)–On May 21, three of the four world championships in the hot junior middleweight division were contested as Erislandy Lara defended his WBA title with a unanimous decision over Vanes Martirosyan; Jermall Charlo defended his IBF title with a unanimous decision over former champion Austin Trout and Jermell Charlo scored a come-from-behind stoppage over John Jackson to capture the WBC belt.
Sitting ringside was IBF number-one ranked contender, undefeated Julian “J Rock”Williams.  Williams was a very interested observer and was interviewed on the SHOWTIME® broadcast with his thoughts on the happenings of the evening.
 
 “Jermell did his thing. I thought he was losing but Jermell has a clutch gene. He comes through in close fights. He knows what it’s like to be in tough. He’s doing well under Derrick James. He looked better on TV than he did live at the fight. He was losing but he was walking Jackson down. The sand was running out of the hour glass for Jackson. Jermell can punch better than his record indicates. And that style would be better for him because people always called him boring but it was nothing boring about the KO,” said Williams.
“Lara did what he always does. He boxed and moved and he won.”

” I honestly didn’t think Trout would last with Jermall. I was surprised at how competitive that fight was. Jermall has every advantage over Trout on paper but fights aren’t won on paper. Trout proved something. I was actually going to congratulate him but I heard him say to Jermall “smack J Rock for me”. I don’t know what’s up with these guys. He had a chance to fight me for a whole year and he asked another man to smack me. But that’s old news Trout is out of the picture.”

With that being, said the undefeated fighter from Philadelphia is focused in bring back the hardware back to the “City of Brotherly Love.”
“My focus is on Jermall Charlo. It’s going to be a great fight. I think he’s a heck of a fighter. This is legacy defining. This is a real number-one contender against a real champion. This is a real mandatory. This is like Bernard Hopkins having to defend against Jermain Taylor. Or Jermain Taylor having to defend against Kelly Pavlik. Or Felix Trinidad having to fight Oba Carr. This is a real fight and I’m excited. I’m excited to test my skills against one of the best young fighters in the game.
Even though, Williams was ringside, he just wanted to observe and take mental notes of the perspective future opponents.

“I didn’t get in the ring like Charles Hatley did because that’s not my style. Hatley is a talented fighter.  I remember him from the amateurs but to each his own. Jermall and Jermell deserve respect and most importantly I know the difference between the two brothers. Hatley got in the ring with Jermall who has to fight me, instead of Jermell who has to fight him. That was Jermall’s moment to shine he had just won a tough fight. Everybody knows he has to fight me. There would be no need for me to get in the ring.”

Even though Williams has been avoided, the powers that be in boxing can not keep Williams from realizing his dreams, and that opportunity will be coming sooner rather than later.

“From my understanding we have to come to an agreement in June. I believe in the IBF. They seem to enforce their mandatory bouts. The IBF did not rank me number-one, not to have me fight for their belt. Jermall said making weight wasn’t that bad. He hired a chef. I know he’s prideful. He’s a champion. He feels he’s better than me, I feel I’m better than him. There is only one way to prove it. Let’s fight.”

I can’t get into details but I believe the fight will be in September as the co- main to a BIG card. I’m super excited to finally get this opportunity.
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Shumenov stops Wright in 10th round of WBA cruiserweight world title fight

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LAS VEGAS (May 21, 2016) – World Boxing Association (WBA) “regular” cruiserweight world champion Beibut Shumenov (17-2, 10 KOs) stopped No. 11-rated Junior “Hurricane” Wright (15-2-1, 12 KOs) in the 10th round tonight at The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.
Shumenov, a former WBA light heavyweight world champion, is first two-division world champion from a Soviet-bloc country.  The native of Kazakhstan, fighting out of Las Vegas, also earned the right to challenge unified WBA Super/ International Boxing Federation (IBF) cruiserweight world champion Denis Lebedev (29-2, 22 KOs) within 120 days, as mandated by the WBA.
Team Shumenov celebrates
Fans may friend Beibut Shumenov on his Facebook Fan Page atwww.facebook.com/BeibutShumenov.
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CHARLO BROTHERS MAKE BOXING HISTORY

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JERMALL AND JERMELL BECOME FIRST TWINS TO HOLD WORLD TITLES SIMULTANEOUSLY IN SAME WEIGHT CLASS; ERISLANDY LARA RETAINS WBA 154-POUND CHAMPIONSHIP WITH UNANIMOUS DECISION WIN OVER VANES MARTIROSYAN SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME®

 

Jermall Charlo Retains IBF Junior Middleweight Belt With 12-Round Decision Over Austin Trout, Jermell Charlo Wins WBC Super Welterweight Crown With

Eighth-Round Knockout Over John Jackson at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

 

Catch The Replay Monday, May 23 at 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE To Download Photos; Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE To Download Photos; Stephanie Trapp/Mayweather Promotions

 

LAS VEGAS (May 21, 2016) – On a night Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara successfully defended his WBA Super Welterweight Championship with a hard-fought 12-round unanimous decision over Vanes “The Nightmare” Martirosyan, undefeated brothers Jermall and Jermell Charlo, of Houston, became the first twins in boxing history to hold world titles in the same weight class.

 

Jermall Charlo (24-0, 18 KOs) retained his IBF Junior Middleweight World Championship with a unanimous 12-round decision over former world champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout (30-3, 17 KOs) of Las Cruces, N.M., in the second of three world title fights on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

 

In the opening bout of the three fight telecast, Jermell Charlo (28-0, 13 KOs) earned the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Championship by rallying from five points down to register an eighth-round knockout over John “Da Rock” Jackson (20-3, 15 KOs), of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (Video highlights: http://s.sho.com/1VeFFVq).

 

Lara outpointed Martirosyan in the main event by the scores of 116-111 twice and 115-112. There were no knockdowns. Martirosyan had a point deducted for a low blow in the 11th in a rematch of a May 2012 fight that ended in a technical draw.

 

Born one minute apart, the identical twins celebrated their 26th birthday this past Thursday, May 19. Jermall is one minute older than Jermell.

 

Jermall Charlo stuck to his game plan and fought behind his jab, throwing 292 jabs and connecting at an 18 percent clip.  It was a balanced attack from both fighters, but the power and accuracy from the physically bigger Charlo was a difference.

 

“It wasn’t a struggle, it was a great experience,” said Charlo after his second successful title defense. “I want to thank God for allowing me and my twin brother to see this day.  History.

 

“Austin is a hell of a fighter.  He’s a beast. This was my first time going 12, but it didn’t matter because I knew I was in shape.

 

“My game plan was to execute with the jab.  I knew he was going to try to stop me, but that didn’t happen. There’s no way you can tame a lion.

 

“It felt good because I knew my brother would get the job done.  We belong on this level.  We need these titles to get the big fights and we’re going to keep these titles to keep rising.

 

“I changed my mind — we’re going to stay right here (at 154). Making 154 pounds wasn’t as bad as everyone made it out to be.”

 

“Hat’s off to Jermall Charlo.  He fought a hell of a fight,” Austin Trout said. “I felt like I did enough to win.  They won’t give me a close decision, so it’s time to start taking these cats out.  But I can’t make excuses.  I fought my ass off, Charlo fought his ass off and hats off to him.

 

“I’m going to live to fight another day.  You’re going to see me back.  We’re warriors out here.’’

 

Two minutes into the eighth round, Jermell Charlo, trailing 69-64 on the three judges’ scorecards, landed a perfect counter right hand to Jackson’s left eye. As Jackson dropped his guard to insure his mouthpiece was in place, Jermell connected with two more right hands that sent Jackson falling forward into his corner.  Defenseless and seemingly out on his feet, referee Tony Weeks stepped in immediately and stopped it at 0:51.

 

“It’s history,” said Jermell, who entered the match as the WBC No. 1 contender and became the 66th ShoBox: The New Generation fighter to capture a world title.

 

“We did it. A lot of fighters don’t come out of Houston and we did it.  I’m waiting for my brother next. We’ve been boxing for all of these years and it had to happen.

 

“I was behind.  He was boxing, he was moving around a lot.  That was unexpected of him.  I thought he was going to come out to brawl.  I had to make an adjustment and I did.

 

“When he started slowing down, I was able to catch him with a shot.  I knew that if he could have continued he could have come back so I had to hit him.”

 

While both were selective with their punches, throwing just 427 combined shots through eight and a half rounds, Jermell was the more accurate fighter.  The new WBC champ landed 23 percent of his total punches, including 34 percent of his power shots against Jackson.

“It was a journey to get here,” said Jackson, the WBC’s No. 2 contender going in and son of former world champion Julian “The Hawk” Jackson.

 

“I feel like I was ahead and I came up short.  He caught me with a punch and I was trying to fix my mouthpiece.  Then he hit me and I was out.  It hit me in the eye, but my mouthpiece was coming out.  I was trying to push in my mouthpiece back in and he hit me.  I knew where I was.  It dazed me, but I wasn’t knocked out.

 

“It’s boxing.  It was a great fight.  I felt I was winning the fight, I got caught and that was it.

 

“I dedicated the fight to my dad and I hope I didn’t let him down.  I fell short.  You win some and you lose some.”

 

Said the elder Jackson: “I’m proud. It took a lot for us to get this far.  I know my people are proud.  We are strong people and we are coming back.”

 

SHOWTIME’s Steve Farhood called the Lara vs. Martirosyan rematch “a typical Lara fight.”

 

“As usual Lara’s style is extremely difficult for the judges to score,” Farhood said. “He’s so selective with his punches, yet he lands such a high percentage of them. And to make it even more difficult, a lot of Martirosyan’s body punches were blocked. The judges agreed on seven of the 12 rounds. It clearly was a close fight and what got Lara over the top was the 10-8 score in round 11.

 

“We benefit from the use of replay. Watching the punch that brought the deduction on replay, I believe that it wasn’t a low blow.

 

“Lara did what Lara does. Martirosyan fought about as well as he could. The difference was Lara’s accuracy and ring generalship. I think Martirosyan’s competitiveness made it a good fight.”

 

Lara, 33, was making his fourth title defense. “This is normal,” said Lara who landed 60 percent of the 160-plus power punches. “This is boxing, not baseball.  Low blows and headbutts happen. I’m a very intelligent fighter and at no point did I feel this fight was going to be lost.

 

“My mother and kids are still there so it would be a great privilege to go fight in my native Cuba.  Everything is possible in this world.  I didn’t think I’d be champion of the world and here I am.

 

“I want to tell Team Vanes thank you for giving me the rematch.  I’m ready to fight anybody.  I’d like to fight Canelo.

 

“The Charlo brothers are my teammates and having three of us going back as champions is a great thing.”

 

Martirosyan, the aggressor throughout, disputed the decision.

 

“I was chasing him all night,” he said. “I put on the pressure. I thought I did enough to win. That was not a low blow.  Replays show the trunks were high.

 

“I never ducked anyone.  No one wanted to fight Lara.  I stepped up and fought him again.  I’ll fight anyone.”

 

Undefeated IBF No. 1 contender and mandatory challenger Julian “J Rock” Williams (22-0-1, 14 KOs), was interviewed between fights by SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING’s BrianCuster. Williams, of Philadelphia, has been calling out the Charlo Twins.

 

“I can’t get the fights I deserve,” Williams said. “But I’ve got a good team. I have Al Haymon and he got me the mandatory for the winner of Charlo-Trout. Guys know it’s a rough fight if they step in with me.  And they know 99 percent of the time they will lose.

 

“Jermall Charlo is an undefeated champion. I’m undefeated. That’s what boxing is all about – two young, hungry champions going at it in their primes. So, I am interested in fighting Jermall Charlo.”

 

On Charlo saying he’s sick of reading your tweets and he’d like to shut you up…

 

“Well, he doesn’t have to wait much longer so he doesn’t have any choice now,” Williams said. “I’m the mandatory and if he wins, we are going to fight next.”

 

Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME telecast, with Mauro Ranallo calling the action, Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-time world champion Paulie Malignaggicommentating and Jim Gray reporting. In the Spanish simulcast, Alejandro Luna called the blow-by-blow and former world champion Raul Marquez served as color commentator. The executive producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was David Dinkins Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.

 

# # #

 

For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LaraBoxing, @VanesBoxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @NoDoubtTrout, @TwinCharlo, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxingand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions

 

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Beibut Shumenov vs. Junior Wright Weigh In

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Beibut Shumenov 199 lbs.
Junior Wright 199 1/2 lbs.
(L-R) – Beibut Shumenov & Junior Wright
(pictures by Stephanie Trapp / Mayweather Promotions)
LAS VEGAS (May 20, 2016) – Beibut Shumenov (16-2, 10 KOs) weighed in today at 199 lbs, while Junior “Hurricane” Wright (15-1-1, 12 KOs) tipped the scales at 199 1/2 lbs., for their 12-round World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Championship fight tomorrow at The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.
Fans may friend Beibut Shumenov on his Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/BeibutShumenov.
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Saturday night’s Shumenov vs. Wright fight now for WBA cruiserweight world title

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LAS VEGAS (May 19, 2016) – The World Boxing Association (WBA) has declared Saturday night’s fight between No. 1 ranked contender Beibut Shumenov (16-2, 10 KOs) and  No. 11-rated Junior “Hurricane” Wright (15-1-1, 12 KOs) will become the  WBA “regular” cruiserweight world champion.  The 12-round off-TV bout will take place at The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.
Shumenov had been the WBA “interim” cruiserweight world champion and mandatory challenger for WBA Super cruiserweight titlist Denis Lebedev (28-2, 21 KOs), who also fights this Saturday in a unification match against International Boxing Federation (IBF) champion Victor Emilio “El Tyson de Abasto” Ramirez (22-2-1, 17 KOs) in Russia.
The WBA has mandated that the Shumenov-Wright winner will be the mandatory challenger for the Lebedev-Ramirez unified winner, which must take place within 120 days.
Friday’s night’s fight in France between No. 2 Yunier Dorticos and No. 3 Youri Kalenga, erroneously billed as for the WBA “regular” title,will now be for the WBA “interim” cruiserweight world championship.
Fans may friend Beibut Shumenov on his Facebook Fan Page atwww.facebook.com/BeibutShumenov.
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Erislandy Lara, Vanes Martirosyan, Jermall Charlo, Austin Trout, Jermell Charlo & John Jackson Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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World Championship Tripleheader Of 154-Pound Title Fights Live on SHOWTIME Saturday Night From The Chelsea inside
 The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
 
 
Click HERE For Photos From Stephanie Trapp/Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE For Photos From Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE To Download A Graphic Of The Charlo Twins Comparison Chart
 
LAS VEGAS (May 19, 2016) – The six elite 154-pound fighters competing on Saturday’sSHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader went face-to-face for the first time Thursday at the final press conference before they enter the ring live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
In attendance Thursday and headlining the event were WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Erislandy Lara and top contender Vanes Martirosyan. Televised coverage begins live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT and features IBF Junior Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo taking on former champion Austin Trout plus undefeated challenger Jermell Charlo battling hard-hitting John Jackson for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Title.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now. Ticket prices start at $39, and are available online at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000;www.ticketmaster.com.
Twin brothers Jermall and Jermell Charlo celebrated their 26th birthday Thursday and were celebrated with a cake at the final press conference that took place at Rose. Rabbit. Lie. at The Cosmopolitan. On Saturday they look to become the first twin brothers to hold world titles at the same time in the same weight class.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
ERISLANDY LARA
“I plan on going in there and getting into my zone and making the adjustments that will allow me to be victorious.
“One difference between this fight and our last fight is that I’m coming into this fight 100 percent healthy. I’m not making any excuses but I had a fractured knuckle going into our first fight. I still felt I was winning the fight. This time I’m not going to leave any doubt about who is the best.
“I have no pressure on me. I feel calm. Part of that comes with experience but I also know that I’m going to go in there and execute my game plan like I always do.
“I’m always stuck in controversial fights because of my fighting style.
“I’m excited to be sharing the stage with the Charlo brothers. We have trained together, so being part of this with them is great.
“Vanes’s a lot more passive than he was for the first fight. He was telling me I better be ready.
“I’m going to do what I have to do. Put my game plan together, put my punches together, I’m going to do everything that I have to do to be victorious on Saturday night.
On how he’s improved from the first fight…
“The fundamentals are always there. Every fighter gets better with every fight. You get a little bit more experience and that’s the difference.”
VANES MARTIROSYAN
“I’ve had a tremendous camp. I have a great team. I’ve had incredible sparring partners and I can’t wait for the real thing on Saturday.
“I’m in the best shape of my life and I’ve never been so ready. I don’t have to tell you what I’m going to do up here, because you’re going to see it on Saturday night. Actions speak louder than words. This is going to be the best Vanes you’ll ever see.
“This time around I am definitely going to be more aggressive. I cannot wait for Saturday.
“There is a different feeling for me in this fight than ever before. It’s for a world title, this is as big as it gets.
“It is the ‘Dream’ versus the ‘Nightmare,’ and you’ll definitely see the ‘Nightmare’ on Saturday night.
On what he saw in Lara’s eyes when they faced off…
“A fighter looking at another fighter. I see hunger in both eyes.
“A lot of the first fight, I was kind of inexperienced but we’ve matured a lot throughout the years. Four years into this game, a lot of experience, a lot of knowledge in the game so there’s a lot I learned from the first fight.
“The whole division is here, it’s awesome. They should do this more often and I’m happy that SHOWTIME put together such a great card.”
JERMALL CHARLO
“Every fight on this card could have been the main event. To be on a card like this with all these great fighters is exciting.
“Boxing has a lot of really big fights with the Charlos coming in the future. We’re going to take it one step at a time. This is a great fight that we have in front of us.
“I’m very proud of my brother, to have accomplished what he has at 26-years-old, coming from where we came from.
“This is a huge fight for me. This is more to me than winning a world title. I put my all into this. None of Trout’s experience matters. I’m a real lion and I’m going to show it.
“Austin Trout is just a name to me. He beat Cotto, so what? I have work to do. I’m focused on getting the job done.
“We (the brothers) both do different things, but we also have the same skills and the same power. No one in the division can match up to us.
“We always thought that we would be winners and that we would be competing at the top level. Now it’s time to make history. We want to prove why we’re at the top.
“Me and my brother have always wanted to be champions at the same time. There’s never been anything like this. This era, you will get a chance to enjoy us. We’ve worked very hard to get here and we’re going to reign on this level.
“After this, I’m coming for the (160-pound fighters). To be a top pound-for-pound fighter you need to dominate different divisions and that is my goal. That doesn’t mean I’m struggling with weight. I feel good right now but I think I will be even stronger at 160.
“May 21 there is nothing that is going to stop me from losing my belt.”
AUSTIN TROUT
“It’s no coincidence that I’m back at the top making a title run. I paid my dues and put in all the hard work necessary.
“I have nothing bad to say about Jermall as a person or a fighter. But at the end of the day, the  history will be my own. I’m going to use him for my legacy, not the other way around.
“I worked hard to get here. I’m sharp and on weight. There is nothing that I feel like he can do to beat me that night.
“Charlo took a chance with this fight. There is no mistake in taking a chance. But will the chance end up in his favor? I hardly doubt it. This won’t be easy. I’m never in easy fights. They’re always great fights.
“Size won’t be a problem. He still has to make 154 pounds.
“I want to thank Jermall for taking this fight. He’s doing something that a lot of people won’t do. But at the end of the day, I’m going to be the lion tamer. I’m going to tame that lion.”
What flaws do you see?…
“I don’t want to tell you about his flaws because he might fix them by Saturday, but we see a couple flaws.
On if it would hurt him to move up to 160…
“It may, it may not. We’re not looking at any extra edge or wishing to put all our eggs in one basket. What we’re banking on is our skillset and our grip to come out victorious. Whether it hurts him or not, it’s not going to matter. Only thing it’s going to do is make it easier for me.
“I’ve been there, I’ve been to the deep waters. I’ve seen many different types of strategies and styles. In a sense, there’s nothing that he brings to the table that I haven’t seen before.
“I’ve got a big dog in me that you’re going to see Saturday night. You’re going to see what should have been the main event. Me and Charlo, it’s going to be a great fight and I hope y’all tune in because I’m taking that belt.”
JERMELL CHARLO
“I appreciate everyone involved in putting this fight together. To me this is a card that people need to be pay attention to. I believe that everyone on this card is going to give it their all, because we all motivated each other to be here.
“I’m fighting John Jackson, the son of a legend. I don’t believe John Jackson will be able to live up to his dad and if his dad ever had to face me, I would have beat him too.
“We’re getting more and more experience. People thought that Gabriel Rosado was too big of a test for me but I dominated that fight. I’m going to pass any test they put in front of me. Over the course of time, you’re eventually going to have to say we the experience.
“I’m proud of what my brother has done. His success motivates me. He’s a world champion. These are the kind of things we look forward to.
“This is our time. There is no more that we can say. There is a lot that’s coming ahead of us.
“I’m coming to win. I trained hard. It’s time for a world title for me. I have to fulfill my end of the bargain. John Jackson has been in wars, but so have I. This is our time, me and my brother’s.
“Being on the same card as my brother is already a high standard so being on a card with the rest of the undercard guys, I’m honored and ready to show what I have to do. I’m ready to make history. I’m ready to win this belt and enjoy my vacation after.
“I’m sticking with 154 right now. I would love to go to 160 because it’s easier for me but because it’s easier that’s why I wouldn’t go up. Making 154 for him is easy as well, he just sees other options.”
JOHN JACKSON
“I’m extremely blessed to be here. I’m looking to make history. My dad was a champion and I’m going to do the same thing.
“Jermell is just selling the fight. We don’t take anything he says personally. We’ll humble him and put him in his place.
“This is a dream come true and the Jackson legacy will live on.
“It’s going to be a great night. This could be the best fight of the card, easily. If you watch my career, every single fight I bring it. You’re going to see action and explosiveness.”
On Jermell Charlo’s comments about his father…
“That’s disrespectful. My dad paid his dues and to talk about my dad like that is kind of disrespectful. It’s not getting to me. Fighters use that to try to get in your head but it’s fine, I’ll let him pay in the ring.”
If Jermell’s ego is getting to him…
“Yeah, he needs to humble himself. That was a little out of line. But we’ll see what he looks like in the ring.”
On what flaws he sees in his game…
“He has a lot of flaws. How he leans forward and waits a lot. But his style is perfect for my style. I always bring it and give 100 percent and we’re looking for a stoppage.
 “It’s going to be explosive don’t miss it. SHOWTIME, it’s going down.”
# # #
For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LaraBoxing, @VanesBoxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @NoDoubtTrout, @TwinCharlo, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Cruiserweight Champion Beibut Shumenov Takes on Chicago’s Junior Wright & Top Contender B.J. Flores Battles Mexico’s Roberto Santos on Saturday, May 21 From The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

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Plus! Super Middleweight Contender Lanell Bellows & Super Lightweight Prospect Tra-Kwon Pettis Round Out Action in Separate Undercard Fights
 
LAS VEGAS (May 19, 2016) – Cruiserweight champion Beibut Shumenov (16-2, 10 KOs)will battle once-beaten Junior Wright (15-1-1, 12 KOs)and top contender B.J. Flores takes on Mexico’s Roberto Santos (12-3, 5 KOs) in a pair of boutsthat highlight undercard action on Saturday, May 21 from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
The May 21 event features SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with a tripleheader of 154-pound world title fights. The main event sees a rematch between WBA champion Erislandy Lara and U.S. Olympian Vanes Martirosyanplus IBF champion Jermall Charlo battling former champion Austin Trout and unbeaten contender Jermell Charlo facing top contender John Jackson for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight world title.
 
Shumenov will defend his cruiserweight title in a 12-round matchup with Wright while Flores will make his heavyweight debut against and Santos in a six-round tilt.
 
Rounding out the action is Las Vegas-native Lanell “KO” Bellows (15-1-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight contest against Virginia’s Scott Sigmon (26-8-1, 14 KOs) and unbeaten prospect Tra-Kwon “Superman” Pettis (3-0, 1 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight battle against Mexico’s Carlos Rodriguez (6-2, 2 KOs).
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now. Ticket prices start at $39, and are available online at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000;www.ticketmaster.com.
A native of Shymkent, Kazakhstan fighting out of Las Vegas, Shumenov looks to build on his last fight, which saw him earn a cruiserweight crown by defeating B.J. Flores in July. His first title defense was scheduled for December but was cancelled when Shumenov suffered an eye injury. The 32-year-old won a world title at light heavyweight by defeating Gabriel Campillo in Las Vegas in 2010. The 2004 Olympian for Kazakhstan went on to defend his title five times and will make his first 200-pound defense against Chicago’s Wright. The 29-year-old has won back-to-back fights since suffering his only loss last May.
Twice a U.S. National Champion as an amateur, Flores seeks a run at a world title after coming up just short in a decision loss to Shumenov last July. Born in San Francisco, but fighting out of Chandler, Arizona, Flores had won seven fights in a row before his last bout including victories over veterans Kevin Engel and Anthony Caputo Smith. He will be opposed by the durable Mexican Santos, who has never been stopped.
For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LaraBoxing, @VanesBoxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @NoDoubtTrout, @TwinCharlo, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxingand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions
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Erislandy Lara, Vanes Martirosyan, Jermall Charlo, Austin Trout, Jermell Charlo & John Jackson Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Fighters Prepare for Saturday Night’s World Championship Tripleheader from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas live on SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE For Photos From Amanda Wescott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE For Photos From Stephanie Trapp/Mayweather Promotions
LAS VEGAS (May 18, 2016) – Fight week kicked off Wednesday with media workouts at the UNLV Boxing Gym for the six fighters competing in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING  tripleheader of 154-pound world title fights this Saturday, May 21 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Working out Wednesday and headlining the event were WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Erislandy Lara and top contender Vanes Martirosyan. Televised coverage begins live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features IBF Junior Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo taking on former champion Austin Trout plus undefeated challenger Jermell Charlo battling hard-hitting John Jackson for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Title.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now. Ticket prices start at $39, and are available online at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000;www.ticketmaster.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
ERISLANDY LARA
 
“I’m not surprised that I’m fighting Vanes again. It’s my job to fight whoever they put in front of me.
“I felt that I was a better fighter than him the first time and I’m a little better in almost every area since. One of the most important things is my way of training and my way of getting prepared. I feel that I am much more mature.
“I like being back in Las Vegas again. I’m definitely prepared to do what I do – and that’s win.
“After I win Saturday, I would love to fight GGG or Canelo, but I would prefer GGG. It’s not frustrating that I’m not fighting the biggest names all the time. I’m a headliner.
“I don’t feel any pressure. I’m just going to do my job and just keep winning. As long as I keep winning, everything will take care of itself.”
VANES MARTIROSYAN
“I’ve been fighting as a pro for over 10 years. This is definitely the most important fight of my career. It’s do or die. Win and I move 10 steps forward, lose and I go 10 steps backwards.
“Beating Lara this time is 10 times bigger than if I had won the first time. Lara has gotten better, maybe his style hasn’t changed much, but I feel that I’m much better too.
“There has been lots of changes in my camp. All for the better. I’m more focused in training. We’ve gone back to doing things the way we used to. I’ve really been dedicated. More than ever.
“I’ve given 100 percent every single day in the gym. This is going to be a tough fight. I hope he comes to me. It makes for a good fight. Actually, I think he is going to come forward a little more than people expect, but I’m prepared to chase him. Whatever it takes to be effective.
“If he is aggressive, once he feels my power, he is going to go back to what he does best – running.
“I’m coming to give my all.”
JERMALL CHARLO
“All of the lost opportunities were part of my journey to get to this point. I know people aren’t going to give me my credit for fighting Trout because people will feel like he has had his time in his career, which we all do, but now it’s my time and I’m taking every opportunity I can.
“I look back at the situations I’ve had to get here and it’s exciting. I have a big name opponent in Austin Trout and I feel like the underdog. I’m the young buck in the game who’s trying to be the lion. Although I do have the belt, its because I had to take it from someone that didn’t deserve it.
“Every time Austin Trout gets to this level, he fails. He didn’t fight the same Miguel Cotto, he just wasn’t himself that night. I have to come in there and take what’s mine.
“Whatever happens, I’m excited. We train, we prepare for 12 rounds. I’m prepared for whatever I need to be.
“I’m excited to be here and fight and be able to support my brother. We’re able to roll through anything and keep looking forward. The good and the bad.
“Everything I’ve been through; I try to move forward every fight. I got the belt from Cornelius Bundrage, I defended the belt and now I have the opportunity to fight Austin Trout – a bigger name.
AUSTIN TROUT
“I take my hat off to him. He’s undefeated. He’s a champion. I’ve been through more to get to where I’m at. I’m more of a dangerous fighter.
“He’s not one to shy away from a challenge. I feel like I’m a better fighter. I’m shocked that I got a title shot this fast. I thought I was going to have to go back to the drawing board. The opportunity came and I’m so excited.
“I’ve been working on my inside game. The things outside of the ring – tightening up myself as a person. It’s been helping me in the ring.
On Jermall predicting a knockout:
“He’s dreaming. Everyone has dreams, but I’ve been known to bust people’s bubbles. No one has been able to knock me out. He thinks he’s a great man. A better man than Canelo or Lara? He’s tripping.
“I’m probably his toughest test to date.
“The next chapter would be to fight my mandatory, unify and be undisputed champion.”
JERMELL CHARLO
“This is history in the making. It’s extremely exciting. We never really thought about it like this. We knew we would be boxing and winning titles, but this is special. We have the opportunity to both be world champions at the same time.
“We don’t know what to expect on Saturday, but we’re excited to put on a show and make a mark.
“I have to get in there and prove to my opponent and the rest of the world that I’m dangerous and I will be victorious.
“We always wanted to fight. We always want to prove ourselves to each other. About everything. We caused trouble but found ourselves in boxing.
“I thought my opportunity would come first, but everything happens for a reason. Look at this moment. It’s motivated me and now it’s paying off.
“The new training camp has been an adjustment, not being with my brother every day. I’ve been able to define who I am and my brother is able to do his thing.
“My motivation is that I was once with my brother everyday. What pushed me so much in camp was knowing that I’m not with my brother everyday, but I’m still in the same shape, even better and stronger. Not through coaches, but in general. Mentally I’m the same or better. We didn’t get worse because we split. The point is what we are doing to stay in shape physically and mentally to be the best we can be.”
JOHN JACKSON
“This is going to be a good fight. It could be the best fight on the card. I’m an explosive fighter so expect fireworks.
“My dad has given me advice my whole career. I have a lot of great insight about how to manage my emotions. He’s instrumental in my corner. I’m 100 percent ready.
“There is a lot of pressure on Jermell, but I’m sure he’s not over thinking it. I’m expecting the best Charlo in there.
“I go in there to go to war. Whatever happens, happens. I’m going to leave it all in the ring and give the fans a great show.
“I’m happy to be the underdog. I like to be the underdog and prove people wrong. I’m happy to be in this position. I was an underdog in the Olympics. I love the pressure. He has more to lose than I do.
“I’ve been dreaming about this moment my whole life. I’m 100 percent ready for this and I can’t wait to perform under the lights.
“Make sure you tune-in, because I’m going all out for the belt.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“We’re very busy. We are going full steam ahead. We are doing events, putting butts in the seats and promoting our fighters.
“This is a great card. Anytime you can put the top fighters in a single weight class on the same show, it is bound to be a great event for the fans and for the sport in general.
“We’re happy to be working with SHOWTIME once again to put on another tremendously competitive fight card for the fans.
For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LaraBoxing, @VanesBoxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @NoDoubtTrout, @TwinCharlo, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Comparing & Contrasting the Charlo Twins 

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(Photo Credit: SHOWTIME)
 
Jermall & Jermell Charlo Look to Both Hold World Titles Saturday, May 21, Live on SHOWTIME® From The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas
 
Click HERE For Charlo Photos From SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE For Training Camp Photos From
Leo Wilson/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LAS VEGAS (May 17, 2016) – Undefeated identical twin brothers Jermall and Jermell Charlo have the opportunity to become boxing’s first twins to hold world championships in the same weight class when they enter the ring this Saturday, May 21 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
IBF Junior Middleweight Champion Jermall will defend his title against former champion Austin Trout in the co-main event, while unbeaten Jermell will battle fellow contender John Jackson for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Championship in the opening bout. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by WBA 154-pound championErislandy Lara in a rematch against top contender Vanes Martirosyan.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now. Ticket prices start at $39, and are available online at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.
While they definitely have their similarities – look the same, have one letter different in their first names, have the same dreams and goals in the same sport – like any sibling relationship, they also have their differences. One likes the color black and while the other likes white. One likes horse racing, one likes basketball. However, one of the things they agree on most, is their desire to make history.
“We never dreamed of being able to make history on the same night and on the same card together,” said Jermell. “It makes it even more intense. The stakes are much bigger.”
“We’ve always planned on making history and the time is now,” said Jermall. “I need him to go in there and do his job and at the end of the night, we’ll both have our hands raised.”
For more information on the Charlos’ similarities and differences, please see the chart below:
 
Jermall
Jermell
Professional Record
23-0 (18 KOs)
27-0 (12 KOs)
Birthday
May 19, 1990
(one minute older)
May 19, 1990
(one minute younger)
May 21 Opponent
Austin Trout
John Jackson
 
Current Boxing Status
IBF Junior Middleweight World Champion
Fighting for Vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Title
Trainer
Ronnie Shields
Derrick James
Height
6 ‘0 “
5 ’11”
Reach
73 ½”
73″
Favorite Thing About Your Brother
How nonchalant he is about things
That he’s a control freak
Favorite Music To Listen To/Train To
80’s Soul
Hip-Hop & R&B
Favorite Boxing Exercise
Running
Sit up and punch drill
Favorite Sport Other Than Boxing (to Play/Watch)
Horse Racing
Basketball, I’m a fanatic
Favorite Vehicle You Own
Mercedes GLE (AMG)
Mercedes 550
Favorite Shoes/Outfit
Rick Owens Runners’
Lions Only Hat
Favorite Junk Food
Salt & Vinegar Chips
Wingstop
Favorite Health Food
Kale Salad
Ground Turkey
Favorite Color
Black
White
Favorite Movie
Don’t have a favorite
Shottas
Favorite Reality Show
Don’t really watch TV
Don’t really watch TV
Celebrity Crush Growing Up
Jada Pinkett Smith
Pink
Your Perfect Vacation
Bora Bora
Anywhere in Greece
First Expensive Thing You Bought As A Pro
My Cane Corso dog
Rolex
Night Owl Or Early Riser
Early riser – 6:30 a.m.
Both
Person Outside Of Boxing You Would Most Like To Meet
Serena & Venus Williams
Diddy, because he’s a businessman
Boxer You Idolized
Tommy Hearns & Evander Holyfield
Joan Guzman because of his underrated power and ferocious hand speed
Athlete You Idolize (Not A Boxer)
Allen Iverson
Chris Paul
One Person You Would Invite Over For Dinner (Dead or Alive)
Jay-Z
Albert Einstein
For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LaraBoxing, @VanesBoxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @NoDoubtTrout, @TwinCharlo, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions