Tag Archives: Juan Carlos Payano

Undefeated ‘Korican Kid’ Logan Yoon to Face Former Two-Time World Champion Juan Carlos Salgado at ‘Rumble at the Rock’ This Friday at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida

Fast-rising Hawaiian welterweight prospect Logan “Korican Kid” Yoon (10-0, 10 KOs) says he’s expecting a big 2018.
 
The 19-year-old phenom from Honolulu will face Mexican former two-time world champion Juan Carlos Salgado (27-7-1, 16 KOs) in a 10-round battle for the IBF Youth Welterweight World Championship in one of the supporting bouts of this Friday’s “Rumble at the Rock” event at Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.
 
In the night’s 12-round main event, St. Louis’ Stephon “Showstopper” Young (17-0-3, 7 KOs) will face Reymart “GenSan Assassin” Gaballo (18-0, 16 KOs) from General Santos City, Philippines for the WBA Interim World Bantamweight Championship. In the 10-round co-main event, former WBA World Super Bantamweight Champion Juan Carlos Payano (19-1, 9 KOs) will fight against undefeated Philippine “Magic” Mike Plania (14-0, 7 KOs).
 
“Rumble at the Rock” is presented by Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory. Tickets are priced at $255, $130, $80 and $55. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.comwww.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Additional fees may apply.
 
The young knockout artist Yoon, trained by his father George, was an
eight-time Hawaii State champion, an Adidas national and Ringside national champion and a junior Olympic bronze medalist.
 
“Training went awesome,” he said. “We had no problems. Right now, we’re putting on finishing touches – last pound or two.”
 
Yoon got his unique nickname from a family member as a child.
 
“Korican Kid is a nickname my aunt gave me. There’s a Korean part of me and a Puerto Rican part. My dad is 100-percent Korean and my mom is Portuguese and Puerto Rican.”
 
While he doesn’t know much about upcoming foe Salgado, Yoon says he’s confident he’ll be notching his eleventh pro victory.
 
“I know he is a former champ and has some experience against top guys. He’s right-handed. He’s a pretty busy fighter, but I’ll be able to keep up with him. I just don’t see how he can do anything to me with my age and physicality advantages. I won’t look for my 11th straight KO, but if it comes, I’ll take it.”
 
Yoon says he realized his natural power early on in his boxing life. “After my second amateur fight, I realized that when I hit people, they react and start backing up. I can see it in them: the fear.”
 
The father and son duo still live in Hawaii, but travel to train at their promoter’s Heavyweight Factory Gym in Miami.
 
“It’s awesome. It’s almost like a dream,” he said. “I have Riddick Bowe in the gym every day mentoring me and, once in a while, we have Evander Holyfield when he’s not busy on trips. My manager and promoters are the best and treat me like someone. I love them. I love the atmosphere.”
 
A young KO artist making a name for himself quickly with a strong promotional team behind him. Yoon, a deeply religious man, says he’s looking forward to a big year.
 
“I’m ready to make some big moves. I know my manager, Henry Rivalta, is going to put me into fights with better opponents. I just have to make sure we train hard and put in the work, and I will come out on top.”
 

Former World Champ Payano to Face Undefeated Plania in Co-Main at ‘Rumble at the Rock’ This Friday at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida

Former WBA World Super Bantamweight Champion Juan Carlos Payano’s 10-round fight against undefeated Philippine “Magic” Mike Plania has been elevated to the co-main event at this Friday’s “Rumble at the Rock” event at Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.
Payano (19-1, 9 KOs) vs. Plania (14-0, 7 KOs) will serve as the chief supporting bout to the 12-round WBA Interim World Bantamweight Championship main event between St. Louis’ Stephon “Showstopper” Young (17-0-3, 7 KOs) and Reymart “GenSan Assassin” Gaballo (18-0, 16 KOs) from General Santos City, Philippines.
“Rumble at the Rock” is presented by Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory. Tickets are priced at $255, $130, $80 and $55. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.comwww.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Additional fees may apply.
Thirty-three-year-old southpaw Payano, a native of the Dominican Republic, who now lives in Miami, is in the third fight of his mission to regain his world championship. He has notched two solid victories since splitting a pair of championship fights with top-level bantam Rau’shee Warren. A victory over undefeated Plania would move him one step closer.
Twenty-one-year-old Plania is a mostly unknown commodity in North America, as he’s never fought on this side of the ocean. He currently resides in Miami and is looking to make Payano the first big name on his growing resume. He is currently riding a three-fight KO streak.
“This is a tremendous match-up with world championship implications for the winner,” said Henry Rivalta, Director of Boxing for The Heavyweight Factory. “Juan Carlos has said he wants no easy fights on his way to regaining his belt, and undefeated Plania will be a stiff challenge. Plania will be looking to make his mark in the US by defeating a recent world champion. He will be very determined to score this big win. I’m excited to see what plays out in the ring on Friday.”
“Rumble at the Rock” is proudly sponsored by Armero Tequila. Special guests expected for the evening include former heavyweight champions Riddick “Big Daddy” Bowe and Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield. On fight night, Hard Rock Event Center will open its doors at 6 p.m. with the first bout starting at 7 p.m.Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is located at 1 Seminole Way in Hollywood, Florida.
About Hard Rock Event Center
Hard Rock Event Center is the newly constructed 3,500-seat venue located in the northwest corner of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood. As part of the $1.5 billion property expansion, the former Hard Rock Live arena will be razed and replaced with a state-of-the-art 6,500-plus-seat venue in a theater-style configuration, slated to open in 2019. In the interim, a full schedule of concerts, comedy shows and other events will take place in the Hard Rock Event Center. Seminole Hard Rock has hosted some of the hottest musical acts such as John Legend, Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, Marc Anthony, Billy Joel, Andrea Bocelli, Tim McGraw and Carlos Santana; top comedians including Kevin Hart, Tracy Morgan, Chris Rock, George Lopez and the late Robin Williams; as well as major sporting events and events of major sports stars, from UFC matches to charity galas for Jason Taylor, Alonzo Mourning, Dwyane Wade and more. For additional information, please visit www.myhrl.com.

Stephon Young: ‘Team Gaballo Not Thinking Enough About What’s Going to  Happen to Him’

St. Louis Bantamweight Young to Face Reymart Gaballo for WBA Interim World Championship on Friday, March 23, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood, Florida
Perennial 118-lb contender Stephon “Showstopper” Young is finishing up his 13-week training camp in Miami while wondering if his opponent knows what he’s truly in for next week.
On Friday, March 23, in the Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., WBA #4-rated Young (17-0-3, 7 KOs) from St. Louis will face WBA #5 Reymart “GenSan Assassin” Gaballo (18-0, 16 KOs) from General Santos City, Philippines, in a 12-round battle for the WBA Interim World Bantamweight Championship.
Young vs. Gaballo headlines promoter Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory’s “Rumble at the Rock,” an 11-bout night of world-class professional boxing. In the 10-round co-main, former WBA Super World Bantamweight Champion Juan Carlos Payano (19-1, 9 KOs) takes on “Magic” Mike Plania (14-0, 7 KOs) from General Santos City, Philippines.
Tickets are priced at $255, $130, $80 and $55. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.comwww.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Additional fees may apply.
29-year-old southpaw Young says that while Gaballo obviously has some strength to have such a high KO percentage, he is too green to be in the ring with a fighter at his level and experience.
“To be honest, I take nothing from him, but they should have stepped him up with a different opponent first and not thrown him in with a guy like me,” said Young. “I feel he’s not ready yet and that will show next Friday. He should have had two or three more fights, but I feel like just because it’s for a title, they are rushing toward it. It’s a good opportunity for him, but they’re not thinking enough about what’s going to happen to him. I will be bringing everything I’ve got that night.”
Young, who still lives in St. Louis but travels to Miami for camp, says coming up the hard way in boxing and then meeting up with his current team will make all the difference next Friday.
“When I turned pro, I didn’t get signed right off the bat with a big-time promoter,” he said. “I went and fought in people’s backyards and proved myself. I was given nothing, but I knew my time would come. I stayed focused and continued to train. I’ve been with my coach, Herman Caicedo, now for two years and I’m a totally different fighter. I want to thank my team, my promoter Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory for giving me this opportunity, my manager Henry Rivalta for always believing in me and my coach Herman Caicedo for getting me in the best shape I’ve ever been.”
For Young, lifting the belt over his head next Friday will be a dream come true.
“Winning this fight means everything. It’s a big accomplishment and nothing can keep me from my dreams. On March 23, I will be champion.”
“Rumble at the Rock” is proudly sponsored by Armero Tequila. Special guests expected that evening include former heavyweight champions Riddick “Big Daddy” Bowe and Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield. On fight night, Hard Rock Event Center will open its doors at 6 p.m. with the first bout starting at 7 p.m. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is located at 1 Seminole Way in Hollywood, Florida.

Former World Champion Juan Carlos Payano Earns Unanimous Decision Over Alexis Santiago In Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO  DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes

 
Ladarius Miller Tops Jamel Herring in Exciting Battle of Lightweight Contenders Tuesday Night from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas
 
Click HERE for Photos from Andy Samuelson/
Premier Boxing Champion – Photos to be added shortly
 
Click HERE for Photos from Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions
 
LAS VEGAS (August 22, 2017) – Former world champion Juan Carlos Payano (19-1, 9 KOs) scored an impressive decision victory over Alexis Santiago (24-5-1, 8 KOs) in the main event ofPremier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONESon FOX Deportes, Tuesday night from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas and presented by Mayweather Promotions.
Payano set the pace early, closing the distance with Santiago and delivering consistent flurries of punches. Santiago was unable to keep Payano from charging forward early and seemed focused on landing a big counter.
The fight was defined by its rough nature and constant fighting on the inside. This led to a cut above Payano’s left eye after round three, but his corner was able to manage it and the cut was never a problem.
“I felt like I was winning every single round,” said Payano. “There were small moments on the inside that I gave away but I think I did the better work each round.”
Santiago had moments in the fight and landed big right hands late in the fourth and fifth rounds that got Payano’s attention, but the former champion was able to throw back with high volume and regain control of the fight.
“The strategy was to wear him down and then really try to walk him down and take him out,” said Payano. “Santiago was a little too tough for his own good so I kept some distance at times and controlled the fight.”
“I felt the long layoff when I got in there,” said Santiago. “I was a little tight and I loaded up too much instead of using my speed.”
Even when Santiago was able to corner Payano, the slippery fighter was able to fight his way off the ropes and turn the tide back in his favor. After the end of 10 rounds of super bantamweight action all three judges’ saw the fight in Payano’s favor by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice.
“I want my titles back,” said Payano. “I don’t care who is holding which titles at 118 and 122 pounds. I’ll fight anyone and show I’m still a champion.”
“I thought the fight was a little closer,” said Santiago. “He did more work than me but I thought I had good moments. I wanted to box him a little more but I couldn’t find my range so I just tried to close down the gaps. We just have to go back to the drawing board and stay more active. I want to get a tune-up fight then get right back to fighting top guys.”
The co-main event saw once-beaten Ladarius Miller (14-1, 4 KOs) score a unanimous decision victory over 2012 U.S. Olympian Jamel Herring (16-2, 9 KOs) in their 10-round lightweight bout.
The southpaws began the fight carefully, with Miller looking to establish his jab while Herring showed great movement early and tried to catch Miller in the pocket. The exchanges picked up in round two, although both men were still primarily throwing one punch at a time.
“I know I out-jabbed him,” said Miller. “When we jabbed each other, I thought my jab was stronger than his. I gave him two different styles. There were times where I walked him down and times where I boxed him.”
Miller began to pick up the aggressiveness in round three, following up his jab with a straight left hand over the top that snapped Herring’s head. Herring continued to focus on his movement and mixed-in good body work several times to finish off exchanges.
In round five Herring began to plant himself inside and looked to counter Miller, but was unable to do enough clean work to get the attention of the judges as Miller continued to throw back with left hands and movement that occasionally frustrated Herring.
“I thought it was a close fight,” said Herring. “I thought when I came forward and pressed the fight he started retreating and moving.”
Both men squared-off in the center of the ring for the final three rounds, as each looked to deliver a shot that would seal the fight in their favor.  The flurry of action led to judges’ disagreements on all three of the final action-packed rounds.
In the end it was Miller’s consistent work throughout the fight that got him the nod from all three judges by scores of 98-92 and 97-93 twice.
“I thought 97-93 was the right score,” said Miller. “I took it easy in round nine and felt him out in the first two rounds. But the rest of the fight I felt like I dominated. It’s a process. I’m just climbing the ladder right now. I want to get another test and fight more strong fighters. I want to be on the biggest stages. I’m ready for the step up.”
“I thought I landed some heavy shots in there and was more aggressive,” said Herring. “Obviously the judges saw it differently. I’ll get back with my team and see what’s next, but I did think I won the fight. I thought I won the last two rounds and pulled it out.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,  @MayweatherPromo, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsports,www.facebook.com/foxdeportesand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Former World Champion Juan Carlos Payano Returns to Take On Alexis Santiago in Main Event Of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes

 
Tuesday, August 22 from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas
 
Plus! Once Beaten Lightweights Jamel Herring and Ladarius Miller
Square-Off in Co-Main Event
 
Tickets on Sale Tomorrow!
 
LAS VEGAS (August 8, 2017) – Former world champion Juan Carlos Payano (18-1, 9 KOs) will face Alexis Santiago (21-4-1, 8 KOs) in a 10-round bantamweight matchup that headlines Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes August 22 from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas and presented by Mayweather Promotions.
Payano versus Santiago replaces the previously announced main event that featured a lightweight match between Mickey Bey and Anthony Peterson that was cancelled after Bey was injured in training.
“I am excited to be back in the ring and on the way back to the top,” said Payano. “I don’t plan to allow anything to derail me from being champion again. I’m ready to put on a great performance and get the big fights that I want. I’m looking forward to once again reigning supreme in this division. I’m never in a boring fight so you won’t want to miss it on August 22!”
“I’ve been staying steady with training camp and everything has been really smooth,” said Santiago. “After my last fight I took a few months off to let my body heal and I feel much better going into this fight. My opponent is tough and aggressive. He’s a former world champion but I feel that I have what it takes to win. This fight is happening during the biggest fight week in boxing and I couldn’t be happier. I’m just staying focused on doing what I have to do to get in the ring and get that win.”
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT as part of an exciting week of events presented by Mayweather Promotions and leading up to the Mayweather vs. McGregor showdown on Saturday.
The August 22 show will also feature a showdown between once-beaten lightweights Jamel Herring (16-1, 9 KOs) and Ladarius Miller (13-1, 4 KOs), who will meet in a 10-round match.
“I was so excited when I got the news that I got this opportunity,” said Herring. “This is a huge stage for me to be on and it is an honor. I’ve been training alongside some great guys in camp to make sure I am in top shape and I’m really looking forward to it. I’m familiar with Ladarius from when I trained in the Mayweather Boxing Club a couple years ago. I don’t underestimate him, but I’ve been in the ring with tough vets and I think I’ve got what it takes.”
“I think a lot of people have doubted me in the past, but lately I feel like I am finally getting the recognition I knew I deserved,” said Miller. “My team has been great in encouraging me to stay consistent. I had to make a lot of changes to help me evolve as a fighter physically and mentally. I feel mentally locked in right now and my last few fights have showed my hungry wont-back-down side and on August 22 the fans just better be ready to see ‘Memphis.’ I’ve seen my opponents resume and all I can say is, this is going to be a good ol’ brawl.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, are priced at $125, $100, $75 and $50 and are on sale tomorrow, August 9.  Tickets are available online at www.samstownlv.com/entertain.
“This is an incredible event to kick-off the biggest fight week in the history of boxing,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “We are proud to announce that some of Mayweather Promotions’ top prospects will be featured on their own FS1 and FOX Deportes card, giving the fans nonstop action and excitement for the whole week. We have a great lineup in-store with former world champion Juan Carlos Payano taking on Alexis Santiago in the main event and Jamel Herring and Ladarius Miller in the co-feature. It is truly going to be an action filled night of boxing.”
The two-time Dominican Olympian Payano began his path towards another world title with a stoppage of Isao Gonzalo Carranza in January, after first becoming a champion via a technical decision over Anselmo Moreno in September 2014. The accomplished amateur won gold at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean games with victories over McJoe Arroyo and Yoandris Salinas. He defeated Jundy Maraon, Jose Silveria and Luis Maldonado on the way to his title shot and engaged in a pair of exciting fights with Rau’shee Warren that saw him defend his title in August 2015 and lose in June 2016.
A pro since 2009, the 26-year-old Santiago had won ten consecutive bouts before dropping a decision to Jose Cayetano in his last contest. The Phoenix-native defeated Gustavo Molina, Javier Gallo and Antonio Tostado Garcia in 2015 and and has also taken down once-beaten fighters Alex Rangel and Hanzel Martinez. He will make his 2017 debut against one of his most experienced foes to date in Payano.
An amateur standout who won a 2012 Amateur National Championship the same year as his Olympic run, Herring fights out of Cincinnati and is originally from Coram, New York. The 31-year-old won his first 15 pro fights including triumphs over Luis Eduardo Florez, Yakubu Amidu and Hector Velasquez. A former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Herring bounced back from his first defeat and stopped experienced contender Art Hovhannisyan in February.
A pro since 2014, Miller won his first nine pro fights as he used his speed and skills to out box opponents. Originally from Memphis but now living and training in Las Vegas, Miller has won four fights in a row, including three by stoppage. His last bout saw Miller fight to the eighth round for the first time in his career and impressively stop the then once-beaten Jesus Gutierrez in the final frame.
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,  @MayweatherPromo, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Former World Champion Mickey Bey Returns to Take On Once-Beaten Contender Anthony Peterson in Main Event Of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes

 
Tuesday, August 22 from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas
 
Plus! Former World Champion Juan Carlos Payano Battles
Alexis Santiago in Bantamweight Showdown
 
Tickets on Sale Friday, August 4 at 12 p.m. PT!
 
LAS VEGAS (August 2, 2017) – Former lightweight world champion Mickey Bey (22-2-1, 10 KOs) will face once-beaten contender Anthony Peterson (37-1, 24 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight matchup that headlines Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes August 22 from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas in Las Vegas.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT as part of an exciting week of events presented by Mayweather Promotions and leading up to the Mayweather vs. McGregor showdown on Saturday.
“It’s been over a year since I was in the ring and I’ve had a lot of time to reflect on my career as a fighter and as a man,” said Bey. “I realize what’s important now and how I can protect my legacy as a fighter. I’ve put in more work fir this fight than I have for any other and I’m ready to let my performance speak for me. I’m focusing on my mental toughness and my ring IQ and I’m looking to put on a perfect performance on August 22.”
“I’m just happy to be back in the ring and fighting again,” said Peterson. “I’ve known Mickey Bey for years and he’s a good friend of mine. But business is business and on August 22 I will be all business when I step into the ring.”
The August 22 show will feature a showdown between former world champion Juan Carlos Payano (18-1, 9 KOs) and Phoenix’s Alexis Santiago (21-4-1, 8 KOs) in 10 rounds of bantamweight action.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, are priced at $125, $100, $75 and $50 and are on sale Friday, August 4 at 12 p.m. PT. Tickets are available online at www.samstownlv.com/entertain.
“This is an incredible event to kick-off the biggest fight week in the history of boxing,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “We are proud to announce that some of Mayweather Promotions’ top prospects will be featured on their own FS1 and FOX Deportes card, giving the fans nonstop action and excitement for the whole week. We have a great lineup in store with Mickey Bey and Anthony Peterson in the main event, and former world champion Juan Carlos Payano taking on Alexis Santiago in the co-feature. It is truly going to be an action filled night of boxing.”
Originally from Cleveland but fighting out of Las Vegas, Bey steps back into the ring after challenging unbeaten two-division champion Rances Barthelemy last June. Bey won his world title in 2014 with a decision victory over long reigning champion Miguel Vasquez. He vacated his title due to injuries but returned in December 2015 to defeat previously unbeaten Naim Nelson by decision and earn his most recent title fight. Bey’s previous victories include triumphs over Alan Herrera, Carlos Cardenas and Hector Velazquez.
The brother of current welterweight titlist Lamont Peterson, Anthony enters this fight the winner of his last seven bouts, including a dominant decision over once-beaten Samuel Neequaye last April. The fighter out of Washington, D.C., was unbeaten in his first 30 pro fights before dropping a title eliminator to Brandon Rios in 2010. He returns to the ring looking to take out a former champion on his way to another shot at a title.
The two-time Dominican Olympian Payano began his path towards another world title with a stoppage of Isao Gonzalo Carranza in January, after first becoming a champion via a technical decision over Anselmo Moreno in September 2014. The accomplished amateur won gold at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean games with victories over McJoe Arroyo and Yoandris Salinas. He defeated Jundy Maraon, Jose Silveria and Luis Maldonado on the way to his title shot and engaged in a pair of exciting fights with Rau’shee Warren that saw him defend his title in August 2015 and lose in June 2016.
A pro since 2009, the 26-year-old Santiago had won ten consecutive bouts before dropping a decision to Jose Cayetano in his last contest. The Phoenix-native defeated Gustavo Molina, Javier Gallo and Antonio Tostado Garcia in 2015 and and has also taken down once-beaten fighters Alex Rangel and Hanzel Martinez. He will make his 2017 debut against one of his most experienced foes to date in Payano.
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,  @MayweatherPromo, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsports,www.facebook.com/foxdeportesand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

World-Class Dominican Boxers Payano, Marrero and Vicente Sign Long-Term Agreements with King Kong Boxing Management

 

Well-known Florida-based manager/trainer Herman Caicedo proudly announces the signing of three of his world-class Dominican fighters, former WBA Super World Bantamweight Champion and WBA #2, WBC #11 contender Juan Carlos Payano, WBA #3 featherweight Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero, and well-respected featherweight contender Yenifel “The Lightning” Vicente, to multi-year managerial agreements with Jay Jimenez of King Kong Boxing Management.
The deal frees Caicedo, who formerly held both duties with the three fighters since their amateur days, to focus solely on training, while Jimenez takes the reins over furthering their careers in the professional boxing business.
32-year-old southpaw Payano (18-1, 9 KOs) won the WBA strap in September 2014 by stopping long-time world champion Anselmo Moreno. He then defeated and lost a rematch to Ohio’s Rau’shee Warren. He was last seen scoring a TKO 7 over Isao Gonzalo Carranza in January of this year.
“King Kong Boxing exploded on the scene with (former interim WBA Heavyweight Champion) Luis Ortiz and has fast-tracked the careers of several Cuban fighters,” said Payano. “I am very happy to be working with Jay Jimenez. And my trainer Herman has always been very honest with us and protected us from the sharks in boxing. Through his philosophy of hard work and dedication, I became a world champion. I am happy he will now be able to concentrate on training, which he is the best in the world at.”
Marrero (21-1, 15 KOs) will face Peru’s Carlos Zambrano for his interim WBA World Championship, as well as the IBO World Championship, on February 24 in Palm Springs, California.
“Joining the King Kong team is great, but as we see it, we have been part of this team for some time,” said Marrero. “Jay has always helped us with anything we needed. It’s just official now. King Kong Boxing Management is looking to bring more superstar elite fighters to boxing’s forefront, through aggressive marketing and strategic alliances with top promoters in the business.”
Vicente (30-3-2, 22 KOs) is one of the world’s most exciting fighters. Currently riding a five-fight winning streak, the power-punching 30-year-old is a television favorite for his all-action fighting style.
“Herman has done a great job with my training and my career,” said Vicente. “He has worked very hard for me and all his fighters. Now he will get some expert help from King Kong Boxing Management. I am looking forward to a very bright future working with these two great men.”

Payano, Marrero and Yenifel Vicente are superstar, elite-level fighters,” said Jimenez. “Payano is a former champion, Marrero a soon to be champion and Vicente on a fast track to becoming a champion as well. This is exactly what King Kong Boxing is interested in signing: the very best. I have no doubt that Payano will once again become champion this year. Working with Herman is easy and inspiring. He brings the same approach to his training that I do to management. He is professional, smart, and a no-nonsense worker.”

“I am very sad and ecstatic at the same time,” said Caicedo. “I have been a trainer/ manager for over 23 years and believe that the only way to develop a champion is to avoid the distractions in boxing, such as when some managers change coaches like they change underwear. Unfortunately, most of the time fighters don’t have a say due to financial restraints or influence the manager might have. I did away with that as much as possible by doing most of the managing myself. King Kong Boxing is, by far, the best management team in the business. These three fighters are special to me because we debuted as pros and became champions together. But I have zero doubt I made the right decision for the guys’ career and future. I want to thank Jay from King Kong Boxing for the trusting in me to work with his fighters over the past few years and for having the vision in the signing of his newest additions.”

Mexico’s Jose Alfredo Rodriguez Determined to Win Second World Championship on January 29 Against ‘Pretty Boy’ Ancajas

Mexico‘s Jose Alfredo “Torito” Rodriguez is promising fireworks in his upcoming world title challenge.
On Sunday, January 29, 2017, at the Studio City Casino in Macao, China, Rodriguez (32-4, 19 KOs), of Mazatlan, Sinaloa, will attempt to win his second world championship by challenging Cavite City, Philippines’ IBF World Super Flyweight Champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas (25-1-1, 16 KOs) over 12 rounds.
 
The former interim WBA Light Flyweight Champion Rodriguez says he’s determined to get back where he belongs in boxing.
 
“I took two years off of boxing and missed being a champion. I came back last year on a mission to win another title and that’s what I’m going to do,” said Rodriguez. “Nothing can stop me. When I am given the proper time to prepare, I am one of the world’s best. That is what I will show against Ancajas.”
 
The southpaw Ancajas won his title in September of last year with a unanimous decision over McJoe Arroyo. The fight against Rodriguez will be his first defense.
 
Rodriguez’s manager José A. Acevedo of Free Agent Boxing Management, says his fighter is getting top-level training for this showdown.
 
“Torito is working with his great trainer, Gil Gastelum, at Big Time Boxing in Port St. Lucie, Florida and Caicedo Sport Training Center in Miami,” said Acevedo. “And more importantly, he is sparring with some excellent fighters to get ready, including former world champ Juan Carlos Payano, WBA-NABA Bantamweight Champ Stephon Young and upcoming featherweight title challenger Claudio Marrero amongst others. This is the best I’ve ever seen him look. He is very determined to win this championship. Thanks to Manny Pacquiao and Sean Gibbons for this terrific opportunity.”
 
“Ancajas is a good fighter and I respect him, but there is nothing that can save his title from me,” continued Rodriguez. I thank him for this opportunity, it’s a dream come true, but he’s going home an ex-champ. I am going to be an unbeatable force that night.”

LARA GENERATES IMPRESSIVE RATING ON SPIKE TV

Photo Credit: Ryan Hafey / Premier Boxing Champions
LAS VEGAS, NV (January 20, 2017)Erislandy Lara, the WBA/IBO 154-pound champion, scored two knockouts in his match against Yuri Foreman in Miami on Premier Championship Boxing on Spike TV last Friday night. One in the ring to retain his world titles and another in the ratings.  An average of 547,000 viewers, with a peak audience of 707,000, tuned in to watch Lara land a devastating uppercut that knocked out former world champion Foreman in the fourth round.
Spike TV’s viewership ratings for Lara vs. Foreman scored 11% higher than their last Friday night telecast, which showcased Danny Jacobs vs Sergio Mora.  Look for Erislandy Lara to return to the ring sometime before summer.
“I want to thank Spike TV and everyone involved with the promotion for giving me the opportunity to fight in Miami, in front of all my fans.” said Erislandy Lara. “The last time I fought in Miami I got the knockout and that’s exactly what I wanted to do in this fight.  I accomplished that goal and the fans got to see someone go down.  Everyone loves the knockout.  I’m happy to have delivered a positive rating for Spike TV.  I can’t wait to return to the ring.”

Erislandy Lara Training Camp Quotes & Photos

 
Super Welterweight World Champion Battles Former Champion Yuri Foreman in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on Spike
Friday, January 13 from Hialeah Park Racing & Casino in Miami
 
Click HERE for Photos from Hosanna Rull/Team Lara/
Premier Boxing Champions
MIAMI (January 12, 2017) – Super welterweight world champion Erislandy Lara is primed and ready for his world title defense against former world champion Yuri Foreman this Friday, January 13 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on Spike from Hialeah Park Racing and Casino in Miami.
Additional action on Spike features former world champion Anthony Dirrell and Hungary’s Norbert Nemesapati, who meet in a 10-round super middleweight bout. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and features undefeated prospects Miguel Cruz, who attended today’s press conference,and Alex Martin in welterweight action.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, are priced at $25, $35, $50, $75, $100 and $125, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.myticketforce.com by clicking HERE, by phone at (877) 840-0457 or at the Hialeah Park casino cage.
Here is what Lara had to say about Foreman, training camp with Ronnie Shields and more:
On his recent training camp…
“We just wrapped up about a week and we got some good rest during fight week. Training camp has been very productive.  I’m comfortable with my weight and I feel strong going into this fight. My strength and conditioning is right where I want it.  Ronnie and I are always polishing up on the things I do well.  Overall, it’s been a great camp.”
On facing former world champion Yuri Foreman…
“I’m grateful to Yuri Foreman for accepting this fight.  I know he’s hungry to get back in the ring.  He wants to prove that he’s still relevant in the super welterweight division.  He’s a former world champion who knows what it’s like to win at the elite level.  I’m not looking past Yuri Forman, but I’m very confident I’ll be victorious.  I feel I’m going to be the superior fighter when we both step in the ring tomorrow night.”
On returning to Miami to fight in front of a large Cuban community…
“My last fight here was amazing and the fan support was unbelievable.  I got the knockout and I’m hoping to do the same again.  If I see my opponent hurt, I’ll be looking to take him out.  I love my Cuban countrymen and all their support, as well as my American fans.  Miami is like a second home to me and I can’t wait to give the fans a great show.”
On the state of the super welterweight division…
“The division, in my opinion, is the most talented division in boxing.  Everyone at the top is looking to cement their legacy in boxing history and everyone is spectacular.  In the future, we will all have to face each other at some point.  So, expect some unification bout to be presented, and may the best man rise to the top.  I know I’m ready to fight everyone, but first I must get past Foreman.”
On fighting in the main event on Spike…
“Fighting on Spike, as the main event, is going to fantastic.  The exposure is wonderful for any athlete competing on their network.  Boxing is a great sport, and Spike TV is helping us gain more fans with their viewers.  The PBC is doing an excellent job.  I’m very happy to be fighting on network television.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LaraBoxing, @YForeman, @AnthonyDirrell, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports @WarriorsBoxingProm and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.  PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.