Tag Archives: light heavyweight

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Two-Division Champion Badou Jack Battles Undefeated Top Contender Marcus Browne for WBA Interim 175-Pound Title On Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner SHOWTIME PPV®

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Presented by Premier Boxing Champions Saturday, January 19

From the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

Plus! Former World Champion Rau’shee Warren Meets Unbeaten Nordine Oubaali for Vacant WBC Bantamweight Title &

Unbeaten Featherweight Jhack Tepora Takes on

Former World Champion Hugo Ruiz

LAS VEGAS (December 17, 2018) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view undercard will also see former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship in a rematch of their 2012 Olympic match up that was edged by Oubaali. In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast, unbeaten JhackTepora will take on former world champion Hugo Ruiz in a 12-round featherweight clash.

In the main event, Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion, will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

“Not only will the fans witness a tremendous main event, they will get to enjoy three action-packed match-ups that will add another level to the pay-per-view portion of the card,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Both Jhack Tepora and Hugo Ruiz are looking to make a name for themselves in the stacked featherweight division, while Rau’shee Warren and Nordine Oubaali are in the prime of their careers and battling for the WBC title. Mayweather Promotions’ Badou Jack has made an exemplary statement for his career inside and outside of the ring and is focused on further strengthening his resume, while Marcus Browne is looking to showcase his talent on boxing’s biggest stage.”

Jack (22-1-3, 13 KOs) has fought twice at light heavyweight since relinquishing his super middleweight world title to campaign at 175 pounds. The 35-year-old, who was born in Stockholm, Sweden, represented his father’s Gambia in the 2008 Olympics and now lives in Las Vegas. Jack won the super middleweight world title with a majority decision against Anthony Dirrell in 2015 and successfully defended the title three times before he relinquished the belt following a hard-fought majority draw against James DeGale in one 2017’s best fights. In his first bout at 175 pounds, Jack stopped Nathan Cleverly to pick up the WBA light heavyweight title before fighting to a majority draw against Adonis Stevenson in his last fight on May 19.

“I’m looking forward to getting back onto another big stage to perform for my fans across the globe and prove I am one of the best fighters in the world,” said Jack. “I plan to show off my skills with a dominating performance on January 19. I always want to fight the best, and he’s the best that’s available right now. I’m always 100 percent ready and I’m going into this fight stronger, faster and with more experience than ever before.”

The 28-year-old Browne (22-0, 16 KOs) will be taking a step up to face an elite opponent when he battles Jack. A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic boxing team, Browne moved up the contender ladder in the 175-pound division with brute force and power, scoring three straight knockout victories against Thomas Williams, Jr., Sean Monaghan and Francy Ntetu. Browne, who was born and raised in Staten Island, N.Y., scored a unanimous decision victory over Lenin Castillo in his last fight on August 4.

“This is really an honor and a privilege to have an opportunity to showcase my talents on a big time pay-per-view card featuring Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner,” Browne said. “Badou Jack is a championship-caliber fighter and one of the toughest guys you can fight in the light heavyweight division. I’m ready for the step up in competition and focused on being a household name in the sport sooner rather than later.”

Warren (16-2, 4 KOs) is looking to return to the world championship ranks with a victory over Oubaali. The 31-year-old became the first three-time Olympic boxer from the U.S. when he qualified for consecutive Olympic teams in 2004, 2008 and 2012. His Olympic run came to an end against Oubaali when he lost a narrow 19-18 decision in the first round of the 2012 London Games. A southpaw from Cincinnati, Ohio, Warren won the WBA Bantamweight World Championship with a majority decision over Juan Carlos Payano in 2016 and lost the title the next year to Zhanat Zhakiyanov by split-decision.

“This fight means everything for me and it’s about to be the biggest moment of my career,” Warren said. “Not only am I fighting for the WBC belt, but it’s on pay-per-view. When I first won the title it was like winning the gold medal at the Olympics. After I lost the title, it made me much hungrier and I want to get it back even more. I fought this guy in the Olympics, so I’m fighting for revenge. This isn’t the Olympics. This is 12 rounds and I don’t think he’s fought anybody like me. I have no choice but to put it all on the line on January 19.”

The 32-year-old Oubaali (14-0, 11 KOs), an unbeaten southpaw from Lens, Pas-de-Calais, France, has knocked out his last five opponents. His most recent KO of Luis Melendez on April 17 moved Oubaali up the ranks to position him for a world title shot. Oubaali, who is the sixth of 18 children born in France to parents who are from Morocco, twice represented France at the Olympics, qualifying in 2008 and 2012 when he defeated Warren.

“Many people are waiting for this fight because it’s the second time we meet,” said Oubaali.”I beat Rau’shee Warren at the 2012 London Games in a great battle. In the meantime, Rau’shee captured a world championship and lost it. Right now, I’m the WBC No. 1 ranked bantamweight fighter in the world. It will be a great fight in Las Vegas on January 19 and I intend to beat Rau’shee again to become the new WBC world champion.”

The 25-year-old Tepora (22-0, 17 KOs) has steadily risen up the ranks since turning pro in 2012 and most recently captured the WBA interim featherweight crown with a ninth-round stoppage of Edivaldo Ortega in July. Representing Cebu City, Philippines, Tepora enters his U.S. debut on January 19 with stoppage wins in 11 of his last 12 contests.

“It has always been a dream to fight in the United States,” said Tepora. “I never dreamed that my first fight in the U.S. would be on a card with Senator Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner. I look forward to a tremendous fight on January 19 and defending my title versus former world champion Hugo Ruiz. As you all know the best rivalry in boxing is Filipino vs. Mexican. It’s going to be a great fight.”

Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Ruiz (38-4, 33 KOs) will make his featherweight debut on January 19 after picking up two victories in 2018. The 30-year-old won a super bantamweight world title with a first round stoppage of Julio Ceja in 2016, avenging his previous loss to Ceja in one of 2015’s most exciting fights. He now seeks to position himself for a world title at 126 pounds with a victory against Tepora.

“I expect it to be a good fight because Tepora is undefeated and a good Filipino champion,” said Ruiz. “But I’m ready. I don’t think he can handle my power. I’m going to knock him out. I want to do my best to win the title. I’ve been watching videos of him and I’ve been training hard. I’m really focused on how to beat him. I’m still young, but I’ve got the experience to handle him in this fight.”

boxing, UK Boxing

Hosea Burton calls out Anthony Yarde for British Light Heavyweight clash

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(L-R) – Head trainer Joe Gallagher & Hosea Burton

TORONTO (December 7, 2018) — Former British light heavyweight champion Hosea Burton has never been one to duck a fight. In fact, he’s looking for a fight. 

Burton has made his intentions known, calling out undefeated Anthony Yarde, man to man, to his face. The two recently encountered one another during Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder fight week in Los Angeles, California, where Burton was on-hand to support his cousin, Fury. 

“Let’s make the fight happen,” Burton told Yarde. “We’re both excited about it. They say I’m not up to you, but let’s get it going man.” Burton has gone undefeated for two years, since suffering his lone career defeat at the hands of Frank Buglioni, a fight in which he was winning prior to a final round stoppage. Buglioni has recently retired from the sport, leaving Burton to set his sights on Yarde, rather than avenging his defeat first. 

Yarde recently scored a knockout victory over Walter Sequeira, October 20 in Brentwood, improving his record to 17-0 with 16 knockouts. Burton, however, hasn’t been impressed. 

“If he’s six foot, I must be six foot nine, because he’s a lot shorter than that,” Burton said of Yarde’s stature. “I would be his first live opponent. Let’s get it on.” 

Yarde’s world ranking would play well into Burton’s plans in 2019, which include fighting for a world title after recapturing his domestic gold. 

“This would be one of the biggest domestic light heavyweight fights in UK history. Everyone is already placing Yarde amongst the world’s best, but the fact is, he has to get past Hosea,” noted Adam Harris of Athlete Development and Management. “We believe Hosea is the one who’s ready to go after a world title. Let’s have it out and find out who’s right.” 

 Burton also plans on showcasing his skills in Canada in the new year, following in the footsteps of his cousin Tyson, the lineal heavyweight champion of the world.

Both Tyson and his cousin, Hughie Fury, fought in Canada early in their pro careers, and have held training camps in the Great White North as well. “Some of the best in the world have been coming to Canada to accelerate their careers,” Harris noted, “including Billy Joe Saunders before his most recent fights and, of course, Tyson in the past. We have a special relationship with the country, and the fight scene in Toronto is booming in a way we’ve never seen before. We have no doubt Hosea will be appreciated and find plenty of competition north of the border.” 

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Salamov Defends Championships with Unanimous Decision over Ghana’s Anim in Sochi, Russia

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On Saturday, December 1, at the Galaktika Culture Centre in Sochi, Russia, Umar Salamov will defend his Eurasian Boxing Parliament and WBO International Light Heavyweight Championships when he faces once-beaten Emmanuel “Horse Power” Anim in an explosive 10-round showdown.

 

 

 

Salamov (22-1, 17 KOs), from Alkhan-Kala, Russia, is currently ranked WBC #10, WBA #13, IBF #7 and WBO #10 in the world. Anim (13-1-1, 11 KOs), from Accra, Ghana, is a former Ghanaian Super Middleweight and Light Heavyweight Champion. The fight will also be televised live in Russia on Match TV.

 

 

 

“I take every fight seriously,” said Salamov. “My preparations have been excellent for this match. I scored a KO in all my wins this year and I’ll do it again on December 1.”

 

 

 

Salamov caught the boxing public’s eye in North America last June with a brutal one-punch knockout over respectable prospect Brian Howard. With top-10 rankings by every major sanctioning body, it’s a matter of time for the 24-year-old slugger.

 

 

 

“The light heavyweight division is one of the most talent-packed in boxing,” said Salamov’s promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “Umar is one of the best in the world and with an impressive victory on December 1, he will be one step closer to reaching his goal of becoming a world champion.”

boxing

”MANDATORY” STEVENSON vs. GVOZDYK WBC Light Heavyweight World Championship

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”MANDATORY”
 
STEVENSON vs. GVOZDYK
WBC Light Heavyweight World Championship
 
December 1 at Vidéotron Centre in Quebec City
 
TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY

MONTREAL (September 25, 2018) – Fans of boxing, prepare your agenda: World Boxing Council (WBC) and lineal light heavyweight world title fight between the champion Adonis “Superman” Stevenson (29-1-1, 24 KOs) and the mandatory challenger, Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk (15-0-0, 12 KOs), will be held December 1 at Videotron Center in Quebec City.

 

 

 

Tickets will be in presale Wednesday and Thursday and general admission go on sale this Friday at Gestev.com.

 

 

 

International Boxing Federation (IBF) super welterweight mandatory challenger Marie-Eve Dicaire (13-0-0, 0 KOs), North American Boxing Federation (NABF) heavyweight champion Oscar Rivas (24-0-0, 17 KOs), WBC International welterweight Mikael Zewski(31-1-0, 22 KOs) and fan-favorite Sébastien Bouchard (16-1-0, 6 KOs) will also take part in this gala event.

 

 

 

Tickets, starting at $50.50, taxes and service fees included, will be on sale at Gestev.com and Ticketmaster.ca, as well as at the Champions Boxing Club (514-376-0980), GYM (514-383-0666) or by calling 1-855-790-1245.

 

 

 

The “Mandatory” event will be broadcast in the United States on a major network and in Canada on pay-per-view via Indigo, Bell TV and Shaw TV. More details will be given Oct. 9 during a press conference in Quebec City, attended by all the participants of this exciting boxing card.

 

 

 

“We are very excited to be returning to the Videotron Center for this fifth Superman world championship defense in Quebec City, more than anyone else in the history of boxing,” GYM President Yvon Michel said. “The challenger is talented and seasoned. The danger is present, but the belt will remain with Quebecers! The challenge is colossal, but the show will be solid and the evening fantastic, an appointment not to be missed,”

 

 

 

“The clash between Adonis Stevenson and Oleksandr Govdzyk will be the third world championship fight in the young history of the Videotron Center and the second for champion Adonis Stevenson,” added Martin Tremblay, Chief Operating Officer of Quebecor Sports and Entertainment Group. “Fans from all over Quebec will appreciate the quality of this gala. The Videotron Center occupies an important place in combat sports with its sixth event in 2018,”

 

 

 

“I am very proud to be back in Quebec City for this mandatory title defense and offer the opportunity to American viewers and on the international scene to rediscover the beauties of Quebec City as well as the hospitality and the Latin passion of the Quebec boxing fans,” Stevenson commented. “I know many believe December would be the end of my reign against this young undefeated Olympic medalist. The message I am prepared to send with this fight is: I am still the No. 1 light heavyweight and I still have several chapters to add to my journey as world champion. December 1st at the Videotron Center is a personal invitation to Quebec fans. You will not be let down, I will win by KO!.”

 

 

 

“I am one of the best boxers in the light heavyweight division and the time has come for me to prove it to the rest of you,” Gyozdyk insisted. “The WBC gave me this opportunity and I am thankful for it. Adonis has been in this position too long. My time is now!”

 

 

 

“Oleksandr has been waiting for this opportunity for a very long time,” Gvozdyk noted. “He respects Adonis Stevenson as a fighter, but make no mistake, his time is now. ‘The Nail’ is going to leave Canada as the new WBC light heavyweight champion.”

 

 

 

“The WBC championship bout between Stevenson and Gvozdyk will be among the best fights of the year, proclaimed Top Rank CEO Bob Arum. “It’s a must-see for all boxing fans.”

 

 

 

 

ADONIS ”SUPERMAN” STEVENSON

 

 

 

Recognized as one of the most powerful punchers, pound-for-pound, in the boxing world, Stevenson will attempt to successfully defend his title for the 10th time on December 1st.

 

 

 

In his last outing on May 19 at the Air Canada Center in Toronto, he fought a draw with former WBA light heavyweight and WBC super middleweight world champion, Badou Jack, in a spectacular fight, while Floyd Mayweather Jr watched from ringside.

 

World champion since his violent knockout over the American Chad Dawson in 2013,“Superman” will try to hammer his mandatory aspirant nicknamed, at the Videotron Center.

 

 

 

 

OLEKSANDR ”THE NAIL” GVOZDYK

 

 

 

Bronze medalist at the London Olympics, Ukrainian-born Gvozdyk moved to Oxnard, California, to begin his professional career in 2014. He has marched forward ever since, racking up 15 wins in 15 bouts, 12 by knockout.

 

 

 

During his last appearance in the ring on March 17 at Madison Square Garden in New York, he defeated Frenchman Mehdi Amar by unanimous decision to become Stevenson’s mandatory challenger, winning the interim light heavyweight WBC title along the way.

 

Teammates of Vasyl Lomachenko and Oleksandr Usyk, Gvozdyk is a talented and dangerous boxer, as evidenced by his victories by referee stoppage over Yunieski Gonzalez, Isaac Chilemba and Tommy Karpency. In addition, he is now trained by the legendary American trainer and commentator Teddy Atlas.

 

 

 

groupeyvonmichel

@groupeyvonmichel

@yvonmichelGYM

 

 

 

#GroupeYM

#StevensonGvozdyk

#Mandatory

 

amateur boxing, boxing, USA Boxing

Simply the best….. Roy Jones, Jr.

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USA Boxing Alumni Association, Class of 2018 Inductee
 

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (September 6, 2018) – Living legend Roy Jones, Jr., universally recognized as one of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers of all-time, leads a celebrated quintet of Class of 2018 inductees into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

The second annual USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception, held in conjunction with the 2018 USA Boxing Elite and Youth National Championships and Junior and Prep Open, December 2-8, will be held Dec. 7, at the Radisson Hotel (215 S. Temple St.) in Salk Lake City, Utah.

 

 

 

 

In addition to Jones, the Class of 2018 also includes two U.S. Olympic gold medalists and world (professional) champions, Andre Ward and Claressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of Coaching Emanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing official Tom Cleary. The latter two will be posthumously inducted.

 

 

 

The charter class inducted last year included Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield, as well as veteran coaches Roosevelt Sanders and Tom Coulter.

 

 

 

“I am honored to be selected for induction into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame,” Jones commented, “especially as a member of this great class with my fellow inductees.

 

 

 

“Amateur boxing gave me the chance to learn life skills as well as face every other possible scenario inside of the ring.”

 

 

 

Jones, ironically, got into boxing at the age of 11 because of Ali. “I saw Ali vs. (Joe) Frazierand just felt as though Ali and I had the same mental concept on life,” Jones explained.

 

 

 

Jones went on to become one of the best amateur boxers in the world, compiling a reported 121-13 record, including gold medal performances at the 1984 National Junior Olympics and 1986 & 1987 National Golden Gloves Tournaments.

 

 

 

At the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, Jones reached the championship final of the light middleweight division against Park Si-Hun, of South Korea. Jones suffered arguably the worst decision in boxing history, losing 3-2, despite outpunching his opponent, 86 to 32 landed punches, and he was forced to settle for a silver medal. Even his opponent admitted that Jones won their fight, leading the AIBA to later suspend the three judges who selected the hometown fighter as the winner.

 

 

 

How disgraceful was this decision? Jones was selected as the Val Barker Trophy winner as the best boxer of the 1988 Olympics and, due to controversy, the scoring system for Olympic boxing was changed, replacing the 20-point must system with electronic scoring.

 

 

 

“I was angered,” Jones admitted, “yet promoted to prove that I was the best fighter there, and in the world, at that time.”

 

 

 

Jones made his professional debut May 6, 1989, at home in Pensacola, Florida, in a scheduled eight-round bout, in which RJJ stopped Ricky Randall in the second round. His long, glorious journey has produced a remarkable 66-9 (47 KOs) pro record, highlighted by nine major world titles in four different weight classes.

 

 

 

In 2003, Jones defeated John Ruiz by way of a 12-round unanimous decision to become the first former world middleweight champion to become world heavyweight title holder in more than a century.

 

 

 

The possessor of exceptional hand and foot speed, athleticism, movement and reflexes, Jones went undefeated through his first 34 pro fights, 22-3 (14) in world title fights. Against former, present or future world champions, Jones was 19-9 (8 KOs) and included among his victims were greats such as Bernard Hopkins, James Toney, Mike McCallum,Vinnie Pazienza, Virgil Hill, Antonio Tarver and Felix Trinidad.

 

 

 

Today, the 49-year-old Jones, technically speaking, is still an active fighter. He also has two promotional companies and gyms, located in Pensacola and Las Vegas, trains several pro boxers and serves as a color commentator for HBO Boxing. He recently opened gyms in South Africa.

 

 

 

For the past two years, Jones has hosted the “Future Stars of Boxing Tournament” in Las Vegas, showcasing some of the best amateur boxers in the world.

 

 

 

“Hosting the tournament in Las Vegas gives me the opportunity to give back to amateur boxing,” Jones explained. “It’s a great experience for the boxers and it reminds them that who they may have or still look up to, are watching them as well.”

 

 

 

Roy Jones, Jr. with one of the many amateur boxers who participated in this year’s “Future Stars of Boxing” tournament in Las Vegas (photo courtesy of RJJ Boxing Promotions)

 

 

 

“When USA Boxing alumni discuss their favorite fighters,” said Chris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director, “Roy Jones is near the top of everyone’s list.  His spectacular talent, dedication to his craft, and infectious personality make him a no-brainer to headline this year’s Hall of Fame class.  He continues to give back to amateur boxing and support the next generation.  Roy deserves to be celebrated for all he has accomplished, and we look forward to honoring him in December.”

 

 

 

Created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — the Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.

 

 

 

The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events host by the Alumni Association, including the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.

 

 

 

To join the Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.

 

 

 

 

Quotes of Note from other World Champions

 

 

 

George Foreman: “(Jones) hits like a heavyweight and moved like a lightweight.”

 

 

 

Montell Griffin: “Floyd (Mayweather, Jr.) was no comparison as far as speed. Roy was much faster.”

 

 

 

Mike McCallum: “(Jones is) the greatest fighter of all time.”

 

 

 

 

If he ever hangs-up his gloves for good, Roy Jones, Jr. will be a first ballot inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. There may never be another boxer quite like RJJ.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

 

 

 

ABOUT USA BOXING: The mission of USA Boxing shall be to enable United States’ athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence, develop character, support the sport of boxing, and promote and grow Olympic style boxing in the United States. The responsibility of USA Boxing is not only to produce Olympic gold, but also oversee and govern every aspect of amateur boxing in the United States.

 

boxing

Russian Contenders Salamov, Idigov and Davtaev Score Impressive Victories in Grozny

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All three of Salita Promotions’ Russia-based contenders, light heavyweight Umar Salamov, super middleweight Aslambek “The Hulk” Idigov and heavyweight Apti Davtaev scored impressive victories in Russia today.

 

 

 

Fighting in the main event at the Grozny City Hotel in Grozny, and live in Russia on Match TV, IBF #11- and WBO #15-rated Umar Salamov moved to 22-1, 17 KOs with a two-round KO over Denis Liebau (23-3, 21 KOs) of Frankfurt Germany.

 

 

 

Fighting for the WBO International Light Heavyweight Championship, Salamov came out firing in round two, landing a perfect left hook to the body that dropped Liebau for the count. The official time was 2:15.

 

 

 

WBO #14-rated super middleweight Aslambek Idigov (14-0, 6 KOs) destroyed former African champion Daniel Wanyonyi (27-13-2, 22 KOs) of Kenya in two brutal rounds. Idigov dropped Wanyonyi three times with a series of brutal right hands. The fight was waved off at 2:32. Idigov is now the WBO Asia Pacific Super Middleweight Champion.

 

 

 

Heavyweight crusher Apti Davtaev (16-0-1, 15 KOs) took out the Ukraine’s Evgeny German Skobenko in six dominant rounds. A serious prospect in the big man’s division, Davtaev was way too powerful for the normally capable Skobenko, pushing him around until the fateful round, where a solid mix of unanswered shots brought an end at 2:40.

 

 

 

“All three fighters did their jobs well today,” said their co-promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “They are all future champions and they looked the part today against respectable opponents. I am proud of all them. The work they have been doing at Kronk Gym is really showing through in their dominant performances.”

 

 

 

About Salita Promotions

 

 

 

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

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Russia’s Umar Salamov to Face Germany’s Denis Liebau in Explosive Light Heavyweight Clash on September 5 in Grozny

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On Wednesday, September 5, fearless Russian light heavyweight contender Umar Salamov (21-1, 16 KOs) will risk his IBF #11 and WBO #15 rankings when he takes on treacherous KO puncher Denis Liebau (23-2, 21 KOs) of Frankfurt Germany, for the WBO International Light Heavyweight Championship.

 

 

 

The explosive 10-round showdown will be held in the Amphitheater at the five-star Grozny City Hotel in Salamov’s hometown of Grozny, Russia, and televised live in Russia on Match TV.

 

 

 

Eager for a shot at the world championship, Salamov has lately been honing his craft at the world-famous Kronk Gym in Detroit, while issuing public challenges to dangerous world champions Eleider Alvarez (WBO) and Dmitry Bivol (WBA). He was last seen in the ring in June, winning the IBF North American Championship by scoring an impressive ninth-round knockout over Brian Howard, live on Showtime.

 

 

 

“I love training in Detroit,” said Salamov. “I am excited to be back in the ring fighting for the prestigious WBO International belt. I’ve already held this title and I feel it belongs to me. I am the best light heavyweight in the world and look forward to proving that point in an impressive way on September 5, in front of my hometown fans.

 

 

 

Already known for going right at every hard-punching opponent he faces, Salamov says he’s going to be even more relentless against Liebau.

 

 

 

“I will be looking for another knockout,” he said. “Working with Head Trainer Javan “Sugar” Hill Stewart and my co-trainer Rick Philips has taught me so many new things. I am in incredible shape and I feel like it is impossible to beat me right now.”

 

 

 

“Umar’s world-class experience, skills and now a world class training regimen make him one of the best light heavyweights in the world,” said Salamov’s co-promoter, Dmitriy Salita (along with Kazbek Aslambekov of KA-Promotions). “Umar is facing a real experienced challenger in Denis Liebau, but I know he is poised for an impressive victory. He wants to make a statement and put the names in the division on notice. I know that he will put his skill set on display and will be impressive September 5.”

boxing

Umar Salamov Challenges Light Heavyweight Champions Bivol and Alvarez

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Russian light heavyweight contender Umar Salamov (21-1, 16 KOs) is issuing a challenge to newly crowned WBO Champ Eleider Alvarez and WBA ruler Dmitry Bivol.

 

 

 

While many of the top 175-lb fighters would prefer to avoid Alvarez and Bivol, two of the hardest punchers in the division, the 24-year-old Salamov says he’s up for the challenge any time.

 

 

 

Both Alvarez and Bivol appeared on national television over the weekend, with Alvarez scoring an upset KO over Sergei Kovalev and Bivol defending his title with a lackluster decision over Isaac Chilemba.

 

 

 

“I saw their fights and I can confidently tell you that when I get my opportunity, I will dethrone both Bivol and Alvarez,” said Salamov. “I am the best light heavyweight in the world and look forward to proving it to the boxing fans by fighting the best!”

 

 

 

IBF #11- and WBO #15-rated Salamov was last seen in June, scoring a highlight reel ninth-round knockout over Brian Howard, live on Showtime. The impressive victory won him the vacant IBF North American Championship. In his young career, he has also already won the IBO Youth and World Light Heavyweight, WBO Youth World, European and International, and the IBF East/West Europe Light Heavyweight Championships.

 

 

 

“After his US debut in June, I am very confident that it’s just a matter of time before he wins a World light Heavyweight title,” said his co-promoter, Dmitriy Salita (along with Kazbek Aslambekov of KA-Promotions). “At only 24 years old, and with the amount of talent and experience he has, the sky is the limit for Umar in the light heavyweight division.”

 

 

 

Salamov is currently training in Detroit at the Kronk Boxing Gym. His next fight will be announced shortly.

boxing, UK Boxing

Fight Report: Thomas and Dudzinski Impress on Debuts as Preece, McIntyre and McGivern Score Big Wins In Cardiff

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Report by Gianluca Di Caro

 

Ben McGivern vs. Ben Hough

Carl Thomas vs. Kyle McNicholas

Kacper Dudzinski vs. Michael Kelly

Levi Griffiths vs. Scott McIntyre

Liam Preece vs. Steffan Hughes

Photographs courtesy of Thomas Jones

 

 

On Saturday I made the trip west from my London home to the beautiful city of Cardiff for the Owen Watkins promoted event at the Ice Arena Wales.

 

 

 

 

The event was due to be headlined by the much anticipated all Welsh Heavyweight title clash between Hari Miles and Dorian Darch, for the World Boxing Foundation (WBF) European Heavyweight Championship. However the fight had to be postponed as Darch was unable to take part due to a suspension he received following a fight on a different event a few weeks prior.

 

 

 

 

Despite this setback Owen Watkins had decided that the show must go on and I for one am pleased he made that choice, as the planned undercard featured a number of top class amateurs I have been looking forward to watching making their professional debuts.

 

 

 

 

First up was debuting Carl Thomas versus Kyle McNicholas in a four round Light Heavyweight Contest.

 

 

 

Both lads started really well exhibiting their respective boxing skills.

 

 

 

 

As the round progressed Thomas stepped up the pressure, backing McNicholas onto the ropes and began letting rip with shots to the body and head of the Liverpudlian.

 

 

 

 

As the round progressed into the final minute Thomas landed a cracking right to the head that shook McNicholas to the core, Thomas followed up with a left to the body followed almost immediately with a big left to the body that sent McNicholas to the canvas.

 

 

 

 

Surprisingly McNicholas made the count, they sure breed them tough on Merseyside, as that was a vicious body shot just below the lower rib, you just don’t see people get up after those that often.

 

 

 

 

On the restart Thomas went straight back on the attack, firstly firing off a stiff jab followed by another stinging left to the body and a double right to the head.

 

 

 

 

Thomas kept up the pressure, peppering McNicholas with a wicked body-head combination followed by another good stiff jab to back McNicholas into a neutral corner before letting rip with a sensational left hook to the body, that sent McNicholas down for a second time.

 

 

 

 

Referee Roger Riley began the count and as it just reached the eight count point McNicholas began to try and rise without success, leaving the referee no option but to wave the fight off just as the bell tolled to signal the end of the first round.

 

 

 

I’m pleased to say that McNicholas was perfectly OK and did get to his feet shortly after.

 

 

 

 

My final thoughts on this particular fight are; it may have only lasted one round but what a cracking round it was.

 

 

 

 

Next up see Kacper Dudzinski making his pro debut against Belfast’s Michael Kelly in a four round Super Welterweight contest.

 

 

 

 

Right from the off Dudzinski got behind his seriously strong jab and began controlling the proceedings with fast hands and stiff double jabs.

 

 

 

 

Kelly is no mug, not by a long shot, he’s as savvy as they come, but even he had to concede to taking a defensive stance and patiently wait for any opportunity, no matter how slender, to counter, which to be honest were few and far between.

 

 

 

Dudzinski seriously impressed against Kelly and has a fantastic future in the sport.

 

 

 

 

It may have been his debut, but based on his performance on Saturday night, against a former genuine title challenger, I reckon he’ll go all the way to the top and deserves it too, anyone who can keep Kelly on the back foot the way Dudzinski did for virtually the full four rounds is without doubt something special.

 

 

 

 

Don’t get me wrong Kelly landed some cracking shots but Dudzinski’s sensationally fast hand speed and superb defence kept those opportunities to the bare minimum.

 

 

 

 

Nice little touch from Kelly late in the final round, following a ‘matrix style’ reaction move, that almost prevented him touching a glove down, however, much to his annoyance he received a count from referee Chris Kelly, although Kelly was convinced he’d actually had avoided his glove touching the canvas, but instead of standing there and protesting he dropped down and proceeded to do push ups throughout the count to show his disapproval, much to the delight of the crowd.

 

 

 

 

After four brilliant rounds it came as no surprise that it was Dudzinski whose hand was held aloft – the official result showed Dudzinski scoring his maiden pro victory by a 40-35 points margin.

 

 

 

 

Next up was Ben McGivern versus Ben Hough in a four round Cruiserweight contest.

 

 

 

 

What a fight, McGivern mainly bossing the proceedings, forcing Hough on to the back foot as well as the ropes for a good chunk of the first stanza. Hough may have been on the defensive for a good part of the first but when the opportunities arose he took them in style.

 

 

 

 

It was virtually a complete turnaround in Round Two, with Hough wrestling control and putting McGivern on the back foot, and ropes, similar to the way the Scot had bossed the first round.

 

 

 

 

The third stanza was a much closer fought affair, so much so I found it hard to split them, points wise.

 

 

 

 

The fourth started out more or less as the third ended, with both protagonists going for it hammer and tongs, but as the Round progressed McGivern stepped up the pace enough to not only secure the round, but also the victory.

 

 

 

 

After four sensational all action rounds, as I gave away above, it was McGivern that came away victorious, referee Roger Riley scoring the excellent contest 39-37 in favour of the Scotsman.

 

 

 

 

Following the fight both boxers agreed to a rematch, which I have been reliably informed is likely to take place in Liverpool on September 8th – put the date in your diary this is a fight no one should miss!

 

 

 

 

The penultimate fight of the night see Blackwood, South Wales’ Liam Preece versus very, very late replacement Pentrefoelas, North Wales’ Steffan Hughes in an all Welsh contest.

 

 

 

 

What a corker this fight was, it was an all action thriller from start right through to the final bell.

 

 

 

 

Considering Preece had a considerable weight disadvantage to deal with, he really went for it, taking the fight to his more experienced, and heavier, opponent.

 

 

 

 

Preece boxed confidently not only when on the attack but also when defending against the pinpoint accurate exocets launched by Hughes.

 

 

 

 

Preece was impressive throughout, and I’m sure it didn’t surprise anyone in the Ice Arena Wales when referee Chris Kelly’s scorecard was read out as a 40-36 points victory for the South Wales Lad.

 

 

 

 

The final pro fight of the night pitted highly rated former amateur star Port Talbot’s Levi Griffiths versus Liverpool’s Scott McIntyre.

 

 

 

 

Griffiths is so slick, the classy youngster began well and landed some stinging shots, which forced McIntyre to switch to ‘plan B’ early on in an attempt to keep on the inside to prevent the Welshman from getting his big shots off.

 

 

 

 

McIntyre’s plan B may not have been pretty, but boy oh boy it was highly effective.

 

 

 

 

After the initial ‘open’ period, which allowed the slick Welshman to achieve a good level of success, the majority of the fight could have taken place in a phone box.

 

 

 

 

McIntyre clearly had no intention of giving Griffiths any opportunity to let rip with any big shots, he just kept him tied up throughout, sometimes by foul means, so much so that after numerous warnings for holding or not breaking when told, referee Roger Riley deducted a point, however even that point deduction wasn’t going to prevent the Liverpool man from securing the victory, the official score being 39-36.

 

 

 

 

Have to say, whilst personally disappointed that the Miles-Darch WBF European title fight didn’t take place, promoter Owen Watkins had put together such a top class support card that I, as well as am sure everyone else in attendance had their Pugilistic Appetite well and truly sated by the fare on offer and look forward to his next promotion, which will take place at the Cwrt Herbert Leisure Centre in Neath on the 22nd September.

boxing, women's boxing

JOE SMITH JR. PROVIDED EARLY FIREWORKS WITH  1ST ROUND KO WIN AT MOHEGAN SUN

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TARGETING SERGEY KOVALEV TITLE SHOT IN THE FALL
 
“SLUGFEST AT THE SUN” RESULTS

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (July 1, 2018) – Returning to the ring after an 11-month layoff due to a broken jaw, Joe “The Beast” Smith, Jr. provided early fireworks last night (Saturday, June 30) in the latest installment in the popular “Slugfest at The Sun” series, presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

 

 

 

“Slugfest at The Sun” was taped live and will air July 19, 8 -10 p.m. ET, on New England Sports Network (NESN).  Star Boxing’s next event, “Rockin’ Fights”,September 21 at the Paramount in Huntington, NY, will also air via tape- delay on NESN.

 

 

 

Rated No. 3 and No. 7 in the world, respectively, by the World Boxing Council (WBC) and World Boxing Association (WBA), Smith (24-2, 20 KOs) hurt Melvin “The Romantic Redneck” Russell (11-5-2, 7 KOs) with the first punch he landed and finished the show, two devastating knockdowns later, in the opening round.

 

 

 

“I hit him with a decent shot when I was walking him down and saw that I hurt him,” Joe Smith Jr. explained.  “So, I looked to end it.  I would have liked to have gotten some rust off, but I’m happy with my performance. My jaw feels great.”

 

 

 

“We’re looking to go to the top,” Smith’s promoter Joe DeGuardia stated. “Joe’s plan and goal has always been to be world champion.  We wanted (Sergey) Kovalev before this fight, but it didn’t work out. We’re hoping to get him in the fall.”

 

 

 

“Kovalev looks great, he motivates me,” Smith noted.  “I think I can take advantage of his conditioning.”

 

 

 

Coming off her historic fight this past May against the undefeated Queen of Boxing Cecelia Breakhus, who won a 10-round decision in the first female fight to air on HBO, three-time world champion Kali “KO Mequinonoag” Reis (14-7-1, 4 KOs) cruised past Mexican welterweight Patty “Las Elegante” Ramirez (11-6, 5 KOs), a former world title challenger, winning all eight rounds.

 

 

 

“She was a survivor,” Reis commented.  “There was a lot we wanted to work on, body shots, jabs and more … getting more comfortable. I executed the plan my corner gave me and got the job done.

 

 

 

A Native American from Rhode Island, Reis wants a rematch with Breakhus, “I know I need to stay busy, active and remain fighting at welterweight to get the rematch,” Reis added.  “I’m going to stay on her tail.  I’ll be ready when it happens, I really want it to happen.”

 

 

 

In the television opener, undefeated junior welterweight  “Action” Anthony Laureano (8-0 3KO’s) lived up to his nickname, never taking a backwards step, as he pounded  Juan Rodriguez (8-10-1 6KO’s) in the center of the ring from the opening bell through the end for a dominant six-round unanimous decision.  The 2016 New England Golden Gloves champion Laureano, who fights out of East Hartford, CT, put on an entertaining show in front of his large, loud contingent of fans.  Laureano effectively used every punch in his vast arsenal to break down a tough, game Rodriguez.

 

 

 

“I thought I did well,” Laureano said after the fight, “but I’d like to see more angles. I want to see more power, too.  It’s there, he felt it; it’s coming.  I have a long road.  Next fight, I’d like to have an eight-rounder.  We’re adding more people to the team.  I hope everyone see that I’m getting better each fight. I have more tools and my discipline is there.”

 

 

 

Undefeated junior middleweight Wendy “Haitian Fire” Toussaint (9-0, 3 KOs) lit up an overwhelmed Andy Gonzalez (6-3, 5 KOs), battering him from pillar to post, until referee Steve Willis waved off the fight in the third round. Haiti-native Toussaint, now living in Huntington, NY, used his superior power and speed to make an impressive statement.

 

 

 

Popular South Boston southpaw Joe Farina (3-0, 2 KOs) overcame a flash knockdown during the opening seconds of the fight, using a relentless attack to defeat junior welterweight Steve Moore (1-4, 1 KO), by way of a four-round split decision.

 

 

 

Irish junior welterweight “Lethal” Larry Fryers (formerly known as Gleeson) improved his record to 7-1 (2 KOs) with a six-round unanimous decision over Anthony Woods (1-7-1). Fighting out of Yonkers NY, Fryers floored Woods with a left hook at the end of round two. Woods was penalized a point near the end of the final round for an intentional head butt.

 

 

 

Former U. of New Haven basketball star Cassius Chaney (13-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of New London (CT), kept his undefeated record intact, dropping Mexican heavyweight Elder Hernandez (5-3, 3 KOs) twice before referee Willis halted the match near the end of the opening round.

 

 

 

The opening bout of the evening ended in the second round and ruled a “No Contest” because of an accidental head butt that left both fighters — William “The Silent Assassin” Foster III (8-0, 6 KOs) and Tyrome Jones (4-3-1, 1 KO) – with serious head cuts and unable to continue.

 

 CELEBRATING HIS RETURN KO WIN


POST-FIGHT INTERVIEW WITH NESN’S DANA ROSENBLATT & JOE SMITH JR.

 

Complete results below:

 

 

 

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

 

 

 

MAIN EVENT – LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT

Joe Smith, Jr. (24-2, 20 KOs), Mastic, NY

WTKO1 (145)

Melvin Russell (11-5-2, 7 KOs), Ashland, KY

 

 

 

CO-FEATURE – FEMALE WELTERWEIGHTS

Kali Reis (14-7-1, 4 KOs), Cranston, RI

WDEC8 (80-72, 80-72, 80-72)

Pat Ramirez (11-6, 5 KOs), Aguascalientes, Mexico

 

 

 

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Wendy Toussaint (9-0, 3 KOs), Huntington, NY

WTKO3 (1:25)

Andy Gonzalez (6-3, 5 KOs), Worcester

 

 

 

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS

Anthony Laureano (8-0, 3 KOs), E. Hartford, CT

WDEC6 (60-54, 59-55, 59-55)

Juan Rodriguez (8-10-1), Haymarket, VA

 

 

 

WELTERWEIGHTS

Joe Farina (3-0, 2 KOs), South Boston, MA

WDEC4 (38-37, 38-37, 37-38)

Steve Moore (1-4, 1 KO), Orange, NJ

 

 

 

WELTERWEIGHTS

Larry (Gleeson) Fryers (7-1, 2 KOs), Yonkers, NY

WDEC6 (60-52, 60-52, 59-53)

Anthony Woods (1-7-1), Philadelphia, PA

 

 

 

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Cassius Chaney (13-0, 7 KOs), New London, CT

WTKO1 (2:47)

Elder Hernandez (5-3, 3 KOs), Morelia, Mexico

*Co-Promoted in association Main Events

 

 

 

JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS

William Foster III (8-0, 6 KOs), New Haven, CT

No Contest 2 (2:27 due to accidental head butt, both fighter’s cut)

Tryrome Jones (4-3-1, 1 KO), Sound Bend, IN

*Co-Promoted in association with Murphy’s Boxing