Tag Archives: lightweight

Rising Star Tim Tszyu Makes Much Anticipated U.S. Debut Facing U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha Saturday, March 26 Live on SHOWTIME

March 10, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Rising Undefeated Lightweight Contender Michel Rivera Duels Fellow Unbeaten Joseph Adorno in Co-Main Event**

**Super Lightweight Contender Elvis Rodríguez Takes on**
**Juan José Velasco in Telecast Opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT**

**Tickets on Sale Now!**

**MINNEAPOLIS – March 9, 2022 –** Top super welterweight contender and rising star **Tim Tszyu** will make his long-awaited U.S. debut when he takes on U.S. Olympian **Terrell Gausha** in a 12-round showdown that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, March 26 from The Armory in Minneapolis in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising undefeated lightweight contender **Michel Rivera** dueling fellow unbeaten **Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno** in the 10-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting super lightweight contender **Elvis Rodríguez** faces **Juan José Velasco** in the 10-round telecast opener.

“Tim Tszyu has risen up the rankings and established himself as a serious contender at the top of the loaded 154-pound division, and he’ll look to make a splash stateside when he faces the highly-skilled and experienced Terrell Gausha,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The action will be coming throughout this lineup, as lightweight phenom Michel Rivera takes on the undefeated Joseph Adorno, while Elvis Rodríguez looks to continue his ascent in the super lightweight division against the always tough Juan José Velasco.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, No Limit Boxing and Warriors Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

The son of former unified champion Kostya, Tim Tszyu (20-0, 15 KOs) has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most promising contenders at 154-pounds. Tszyu headlines on SHOWTIME following in his father’s footsteps after Kostya competed 10 times on the network, including memorable knockouts of Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. and Zab Judah. Fighting out of his native Sydney, Australia, Tszyu will make his U.S. debut on March 26 after earning his first 20 pro wins in his home country. The 27-year-old went the 12-round distance for the first time in his last fight, dominating Takeshi Inoue on his way to a unanimous decision in November 2021. The decision victory came after Tszyu had put together stoppage wins in eight of his previous ten outings.

“I’m very excited to be fighting in the U.S., especially on SHOWTIME, where my dad was featured for most of his career,” said Tszyu. “I’m proud and excited to continue on the Tszyu name with SHOWTIME. Once I take care of Gausha, I will be coming for the title.”

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (22-2-1, 11 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif., where he is trained by Manny Robles and Prenice Brewer. The 34-year-old has faced tough competition throughout his career, having fought former champion Austin Trout to a draw in 2019 in addition to decision losses against former champion Erislandy Lara and top contender Erickson Lubin. Gausha showed improved power in his most recent bout, stopping rising contender Jamontay Clark in two rounds in March 2021.

“I’ve been ready for this fight for a long time,” said Gausha. “I came into this game to be a world champion and fight the best. I expect Tim to come in great shape and I’ll also come in my best shape to put on a great fight for the fans. My coaches are getting me prepared perfectly for the kind of fight I need to put on so that I can leave the ring victorious.”

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now fighting out of Miami, Fla. Rivera (22-0, 14 KOs) burst onto the scene in 2019, making his U.S. debut with a victory over Rene Tellez Giron on *SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION*^®. The 23-year-old continued his ascent in 2020, adding a stoppage win against Fidel Maldonado Jr. and a unanimous decision triumph against lightweight contender LaDarius Miller. Rivera carried his dominance into 2021 with three more victories, including a stoppage of Anthony Mercado in February before delivering a highlight-reel knockout of Jon Fernandez in July on SHOWTIME. He most recently scored a shutout unanimous decision over Matias Romero in October.

“This is a great opportunity for me to display my talents once again against a high-quality opponent in Joseph Adorno,” said Rivera. “I’m ready to take on anyone willing to challenge me until my time comes to fight for the world title. My goal is to be victorious on March 26 and then face Gervonta Davis for his title. With each fight I’m getting closer to reaching that goal. I can’t wait to show off all the hard work that I’ve put into this camp on fight night.”

Adorno (14-0-2, 12 KOs) has fought to a draw in each of his last two fights, dropping fellow unbeaten Jamaine Ortiz twice in April 2021 after dueling Héctor “Guadaña” García in January 2020. The 22-year-old was born in Union City, New Jersey and now resides in Allentown, Pa., having fought in nearby Philadelphia five times throughout his career. Adorno turned pro in 2016 at the age of 17 after a standout amateur career where he amassed a 178-22 record and beat Shakur Stevenson’s twice. He has scored knockout victories in nine of his first 10 pro fights.

“This fight is a chance for me to show my true talents,” said Adorno. “Not taking anything away from Rivera, but I know I’m going to be the better fighter on March 26. I’m working with a new trainer, Raúl ‘Chino’ Rivas, who has trained many talented fighters, and I’m ready to showcase myself at my very best. I’m more focused than ever and I’m not going to let this opportunity pass me by. Everybody better be ready for a show on March 26.”

Rodríguez (12-1-1, 11 KOs) bounced back from his first career defeat, a majority decision loss to Kenneth Sims Jr., to knockout the previously unbeaten Juan Pablo Romero on the Canelo vs. Plant SHOWTIME PPV^® undercard in November. The 26-year-old burst onto the scene with knockout victories in 10 of his first 11 fights and put together an impressive five wins in 2020. Originally from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Rodríguez now lives in Los Angeles

“March 26 is another step toward my world championship goal,” said Rodríguez. “I am fighting a tough veteran fighter who has faced top-level competition. I’ve stayed in camp through Christmas so that I can be 100% ready for this fight. Winning on March 26 means a lot for my career and I hope that a win will put me in contention for a title shot this year. I want to show the world that I’m ready for the big names in the division.”

The 34-year-old Velasco (23-2, 14 KOs) enters this fight on a three-bout winning streak, having most recently earned a split decision victory over Zachary Ochoa in February 2021. A native of Jujuy, Argentina, Velasco has tangled with some of the toughest fighters in the 140-pound division, including former champions Mario Barrios and Regis Prograis. Velasco will fight in the U.S. for the fifth time on March 26.

“I’m very honored to be on a great card like this,” said Velasco. “This is actually the second time that I’ve been preparing to face Rodríguez, so I know what I’m up against. He’s going to come into the right at 100%, just like I will. May the best man win on March 26.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuGausha, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

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Potential Instant Classics in World Cup Boxing Series “4-Man Lightweight Tournament” semifinals

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

boxing

Mexican Quartet announced for World Cup Boxing Series “4-Man Lightweight Tournament” February 24th in Mexico

January 14, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

**LAS VEGAS (January 12, 2022)** — World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS) has finalized plans for its inaugural “4-Man Lightweight Tournament,” presented by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions, with the semifinals on February 24^th at Palenque De La Expo in Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico.

At its 59^th annual World Boxing Council (WBC) Convention in Mexico City this past November, the WBC committee approved to sanction the WCBS’ “4-Man lightweight Tournament,” created by CEO Terry Hollan and matchmaker Guy Taylor.

“We are extremely grateful for the WBC to sanction our upcoming ‘4-Man Lightweight Tournament,’” Taylor said. “The semifinals will be held February 24^th, the championship final June 2^nd. The World Boxing Council will crown the winner of the ‘4-Man Tournament’ as its new WBC Latino Lightweight Champion.”

“The WBC hopes to be able to sanction more World Cup Boxing Series tournaments and create great regional champions to enter our world rankings and achieve their goals with the WBC,” WBC Latino President Alberto Guerra commented.

The WCBS “4-Man Tournament” semifinals matchups have been announced: Luis “Koreano” Torres (14-0, 9 KOs) vs. Rodolfo “Rudy” Flores (14-5, 6 KOs), Alberto “El Alacan” Ruiz (11-4, 8 KOs) vs. Isai “Gaga” Hernandez (11-2-2, 7 KOs).

Semifinal’s action will be contested in 8-round bouts, 10 rounds for the championship final. The WCBS will also feature one “overtime” round, if needed, to declare a winner in the event of a draw upon the conclusion of the scheduled distance.

WCBS will also be offering a “Fight of the Night” and “Knockout” bonuses to each contestant through the duration of its “4-Man Lightweight Tournament.”

The 20-year-old Torres is the favorite going into the tournament. The southpaw is a former WBC Youth Silver lightweight champion who has cruised through his first 14 opponents since making his pro debut in 2017. His last fight was an impressive 10-round decision over Guillermo Avila Godinez (19-11) this past December in Ciudad Obregon.

Flores, 26, has won two of his last three fights. His most notable wins have been by decision versus Jesus Acosta Zazueta (16-5-2) and Jairo Lopez (18-5).
Last August, Ruiz upset 15-0 WBC Latino Lightweight Champion Jair Valtierra by way of a fifth-round knockout to capture the crown.
Hernandez has won five of his last six matches, excluding a “no-contest” in his last fight against 13-0-1 Francisco Lopez, in which Hernandez was holding his own until the fight was stopped due to an accidental headbutt.

“To have undefeated Luis Torres, Mexico’s top-rated lightweight prospect, and the last one to be WBC Latino champion, Alberto Ruiz, in this tournament should show everyone the quality fighters we are providing,” Taylor concluded. “Any man can be defeated on any given night and that’s the beauty of a tournament model.”

**INFORMATION:**
Facebook: /WorldCupBoxingSeries
Instagram: @World_Cup_Boxing_Series

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

GERVONTA “TANK” DAVIS MOVES UP TWO WEIGHT CLASSES TO BECOME THREE-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION WITH SCINTILLATING TKO OVER PREVIOUSLY UNBEATEN MARIO BARRIOS IN SHOWTIME PPV® MAIN EVENT SATURDAY NIGHT FROM ATLANTA

July 2, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

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Description automatically generated — ***(Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME)***

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/Mayweather Promotions**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions**

**ATLANTA (June 27, 2021) – Gervonta “Tank” Davis**, one of the biggest stars in all of boxing, put on a career-defining performance Saturday night live on SHOWTIME PPV from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta, scoring a scintillating 11^th round TKO over the previously-undefeated **Mario Barrios** to capture the WBA Super Lightweight Championship in the action-packed Premier Boxing Champions event. Watch the stoppage HERE.

“I made it tough. I definitely could have made it easier but I went up two weight classes and I got the job done,” said the 26-year-old Baltimore native, who was headlining his second SHOWTIME PPV. “I hit him with some clean shots, but I’m the type of fighter that wants to catch you with clean shots. I don’t just want to throw any type of shot. The shots I was throwing were missing, but eventually I caught up with him.”

In a fight that lived up to its potential, Davis (25-0, 24 KOs) and Barrios (26-1, 17 KOs) combined to put on an unforgettable main event in front of a sold-out crowd of 16,570. After a slow opening four rounds in which Davis landed just 11 punches, the fight produced fireworks beginning in the fifth round. In the eighth round, “Tank” sent “El Azteca” to the canvas for both the first and second times of his career. First, Davis connected on a sweeping right hook that sent the former champion to the canvas. Moments later, a straight left hand by Davis dropped Barrios again. The brave Barrios rose to his feet, surviving Davis’ attempts to finish him in the eighth.

With International Boxing Hall of Famer and promoter Floyd Mayweather encouraging Davis in his corner, the southpaw came out rejuvenated in the eleventh round, realizing that the fight could be close on the scorecards. “Tank” dropped Barrios for the third time in the fight, this time with a left uppercut to the body. The bloodied Barrios rose again, only to be greeted with another barrage of punches from Davis. Referee Thomas Taylor stepped in to stop the fight at 2:13 of the eleventh round.

“I knew for sure if I catch him, I’m crackin,” Davis told SHOWTIME’s Jim Gray. “So I caught him, and it showed. My coach was telling me to go to a jab style but I’m a southpaw so they know I’m going to that jab side. So I would try and bait him in. I faked like I was going left, and I threw my right. And my hook over top, and that’s where I caught him.”

In the final six-and-a-half rounds, Davis landed 85 punches. He landed 45 percent of his power punches (82/182), while Barrios more than held his own, out-landing Davis in six of the ten completed rounds.

“I knew he was hurt. I just had to catch him at the right time,” Davis continued. “Floyd [Mayweather] came to me and was honest and said I was down,” continued Davis, who was actually ahead on all three judges’ scorecards at the time of the stoppage. “So he said ‘Show me that you’re great.’ And you know how we do it in the doghouse, baby!”

With the victory, Davis now holds world championships in three different divisions simultaneously, a feat only accomplished by a few other fighters in history, including Henry Armstrong and Canelo Alvarez.

“He has the potential to be one of the greatest ever,” said Mayweather. “When I first met ‘Tank’ when he was 14 or 15 years old, I told him I’d make him a world champion. And that you’ll be one of the best someday. I’m proud of him.”

“I’ve never been a hater. Congrats to ‘Tank’,” said Barrios. “He came here and did his thing. It was nothing short of an exciting fight and that’s exactly what both of us predicted. He was the better man tonight, but I’ll definitely be back.

“’Tank’ is explosive. He caught me slipping and it’s boxing. At the end of the day, one punch can change the fight. That’s exactly what I felt happened. Congrats to him.”

In a back-and-forth co-main event, Orlando’s **Erickson “Hammer” Lubin** (23-1, 17 KOs) overcame some adversity to score the most important victory of his career over former unified world champion **Jeison Rosario** (20-3-1, 14 KOs). The WBC No. 1-ranked contender at 154 pounds, Lubin scored a sixth-round KO (1:42) in the WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator. Watch HERE.

“I just followed the game plan,” said the 25-year-old Lubin, who improves to 6-0 since suffering the only loss of his career to 154-pound kingpin Jermell Charlo. “I would just go back to my corner after each round and Coach [Kevin] Cunningham and my team would just say, ‘Stick to the jab. Stay consistent with your jab.’ I’m way faster than him and I knew he had good power and he was trying to counter me. So I would fade him out and use my jab consistently.”

In the third round, Lubin nearly put an early end to the action with a huge frame that had Rosario on the back foot. In the closing moments of the round, Lubin landed a right hook that had Rosario wobbling back to his corner after the bell rang. Miraculously, in the next round, Rosario was able to recover and completely turned the tables, wobbling Lubin with a left jab.

The action turned up even more in the sixth round. Lubin, sensing that Rosario was susceptible to the body attack, landed a vicious left-right body combination that sent Rosario to his knees in what ultimately proved to be the turning point of the fight. Rosario, clearly hurt, was never able to recover and Lubin finished him off moments later against the ropes.

“I started to hurt him in the body as soon as the first round started,” the 2016 “Prospect Of The Year” Lubin said. “I started with the body and I saw him grunt. So I was able to hurt him to the body. I just wanted to distract him with the jab, then go downstairs. And I was able to get him out. I knew even if he got up after the knockdown that the fight was over. I know I’m a great finisher and I knew I was going to get him out of there as soon as I saw him drop.”

Lubin landed 44 percent of his power punches (80/288) and 20 of his landed punches were to the body. With the win, Lubin puts himself squarely in the picture for a second world title opportunity.

“I want a shot at the world title next,” he said. “I want everyone at 154 pounds. I’m No. 1 in the WBC but I chose to fight Rosario. I don’t duck anybody. I want to say that I fought everyone in my division when I win the world title.”

“Right now, I feel so bad,” said Rosario. “There is no lesson to be learned yet, everything is so raw still. I lost again, and it’s so frustrating. I was convinced I was going to win. The fight started to turn in the second round. I was just trying to keep up and listen to my corner. Lubin is a great fighter. He deserved to win. I hope he enjoys his victory.”

On the biggest stage of his career, Dominican Republic’s **Carlos Adames** (20-1, 16 KOs) rose to the occasion, scoring a highlight-reel third-round knockout over the streaking **Alexis Salazar** (23-4, 9 KOs) in the second fight of the pay-per-view. The time of the stoppage was 2:59 of the third round. Watch the KO HERE.

In the eventful and decisive third round, referee Jim Korb deducted two points from Adames for excessive holding. However, Adames made certain that the point deduction would have no impact on the fight’s result. He dropped Salazar with a lead left hook flush on the chin, a punch that Salazar never saw coming. The 25-year-old Mexican was able to get back to his feet, but Korb called for the stoppage when it was evident that a dazed Salazar was unable to continue.

“I was in control the entire fight, and that’s what reduced him to turning around at times,” said the 27-year-old Adames. “I was working with the jab to the body at first so that was working, and then I came with the left hook. I did my job and followed my strategy from A to Z and was able to succeed the way I wanted to.

“The key moment of the fight was when I managed to disrupt his focus. Once I was able to do that then it was easy pickings for me.”

“I was feeling good in there and I thought I was winning rounds,” said Salazar, whose 15-fight win streak was put to an end with one punch. “But he started grabbing me and that’s when he got me with an uppercut. That swung the fight. I just have to get back to work and keep looking for more opportunities.”

In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME PPV telecast, the hard-hitting **Batyr Akhmedov** (9-1, 8 KOs) scored a TKO victory over former world champion **Argenis Mendez** (25-7-3, 12 KOs) in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight Title Eliminator. Mendez suffered a right hand injury and did not get off his stool to come out for the ninth round. The official time of the stoppage was 3:00 of round number eight.

“The fight went as planned,” said Akhmedov, who overcame the first cut of his career over his left eye after an accidental head clash in the second round. “We were expecting a tough fight like that. I’ve been out of the ring for a long time, so I needed to get those rounds in. My plan is to fight for the world title next. We knew he would be uncomfortable to fight and tricky. He was headbutting and elbowing me. It was good experience for me.”

In the battle of Olympians, it was Akhmedov who pressed the action and was far busier from the onset. He went to the body early and often, landing 57 body punches, wearing Mendez down as the rounds passed by. The 30-year-old Akhmedov landed 115 of the 306 power punches he threw, while the 34-year-old Mendez landed 84 of his 223 power punches, including just 13 body connects. At the time of the stoppage, Akhmedov was ahead on all three judges’ scorecards.

“Mendez is a tough guy who fights top fighters,” continued Akhmedov. “We knew it wouldn’t be a walk in the park. When I hurt him, my corner was telling me to slow down and take my time before going for the knockout.”

“I started feeling (injured) in the second and third round,” said a disappointed Mendez. “My knuckles were broken and I couldn’t throw a punch anymore after I cut him with my right hand in the first round. I tried to keep fighting from the fourth round on, but to no avail. It was useless.”

With the win, Akhmedov keeps himself in the running for top fights in the deep 140-pound division. Mendez drops to 2-4-2 in last eight fights.

SHOWTIME will add a special replay of tonight’s pay-per-view main event fight between Gervonta Davis and Mario Barrios to the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast headlined by Chris “Primetime” Colbert vs. Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar next Saturday, July 3 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME. The replay of tonight’s SHOWTIME PPV headline attraction from State Farm Arena in Atlanta will serve as the opening fight of the live telecast from Carson, Calif. on Independence Day weekend.

*ALL ACCESS: DAVIS-BARRIOS EPILOGUE* premieres immediately following next week’s live telecast of *Colbert vs. Nyambayar*. The Emmy® Award-winning series *ALL ACCESS* was behind-the-scenes all week in Atlanta to capture never-before-seen moments from fight week. The epilogue will reveal intimate scenes from the locker rooms before and after the fight and inside the ropes from tonight’s action.

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handled blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy^® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The executive producer was four-time Emmy® award winner David Dinkins, Jr. The telecast was directed by Bob Dunphy. Former junior middleweight world champion Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna served as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions, @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.

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GERVONTA DAVIS VS. MARIO BARRIOS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

June 24, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

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Description automatically generated — **Plus, Erickson Lubin and Undercard Fighters Featured On Blockbuster SHOWTIME PPV^® Event This Saturday, June 26, from State Farm Arena in Atlanta**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/**
**Mayweather Promotions**

**ATLANTA** (June 23, 2021) – Four-time world champion **Gervonta “Tank” Davis** and undefeated WBA Super Lightweight Champion **Mario “El Azteca” Barrios** took part in a media workout to kick off fight week at the College Football Hall of Fame on Wednesday ahead of this Saturday’s blockbuster **SHOWTIME PPV^®** event.

Tickets for the live event presented by Premier Boxing Champions are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what Davis, Barrios and the rest of the fighters in attendance had to say on Wednesday:

**GERVONTA DAVIS**

“I’m excited to be in this position to be able to give the fans what they want to see, which is an exciting fight. Atlanta showed me love the last time I came, so why not come back?

“This is one of my toughest fights on paper. I’ll be ready and hopefully he’ll be ready, and we’ll give the fans what they want to see.

“Las Vegas is definitely a boxing town. My team is there at Mayweather Promotions and I brought my personal team out there as well. We’re all a family. We train together, get along, and help each other.

“There is no pressure on me, I am just going out there to do my job. It’s just another day at the job for me. Hopefully he’s ready because I’m definitely ready and we can give the fans what they want to see, which is a knockout.

“[Barrios] is a young champion. I’m going up two weight classes to face him. If they don’t give me the respect after this, I don’t know what I have to do. It’s pretty cool. This is actually the first time I’m fighting at this weight class. Whatever opportunities they give me at 135, or 140, I’ll take them.”

**MARIO BARRIOS**

“This is all brand new, but I’m taking it all in and excited to be in Atlanta. I’m just excited to go out there on Saturday and give everybody a great fight.

“No doubt about it, Tank is by far the toughest test for another title defense and I’m going to do whatever it takes to be successful on Saturday. There’s going to be fireworks on Saturday.

“This is a huge opportunity and I’m very excited for this chance. This is a very winnable fight for me, regardless of what everyone has been saying. I’m just excited to be back in the ring and in Atlanta.

“I think it’s not going to be until we both get in the ring that people realize how much size I really have for 140 pounds. Somehow, he’s still the favorite although he’s the challenger in this fight. I just take that as more motivation for me.

“Height-wise, reach. Those are the major advantages. I’m just as dangerous as he is. And just as explosive and just as fast. And I will show that on fight night.

“When they came to me, I said let’s do it but I was like, ‘I’m not going down to 135,’ and they said, ‘Nah, he’s going to come up.’ And I said, ‘Even better.’

“I’ve seen him fight plenty of times. He’s a great fighter and he’s been very successful at the lower weight divisions against the smaller opponents. But this is a different fight for him.

“I didn’t take too much from the Leo Santa Cruz fight. I felt [Gervonta] fought him the way he did because he didn’t respect Santa Cruz’s power. But with our fight he’s going to have no choice and he’s not going to fight me the way he fought Santa Cruz. Whatever he does fight night, I’m going to have to adapt.

“I’ve been boxing just as long as he has and I have an excellent boxing IQ, just as he has. It only takes one punch to change a fight, and he definitely has that one punch. But I’ll find out if that power carries over to 140 pounds.”

**ERICKSON LUBIN**

“We always work hard. Every camp is hard. It’s just that this time we added a little longer. We’ve been working since my last fight and I’m just so excited to go out there and display my talents.

“Me and Jeison Rosario, we’re both hungry. I just think I want it more and my preparation is going to speak for itself and the fans can only expect fireworks and the best of me.

“It’s not just one thing we’re working on; we’re working on everything to be our best. Everything is clicking on all cylinders right now. I feel I’m ready to fight. I’ve been ready to fight weeks ago. Everything is going to show on Saturday night.

“I’ve seen him fight against Charlo and others – I’ve seen enough. I know what I have to do to get him out of there. I’m a competitor and want to give the fans the best show.

“My loss affected me and motivated me big time. I know my abilities and I know what I’m capable of, so I just went back to the drawing board and took it all in. I understood how serious this sport is, and how unforgiving this sport is. So I knew I had to go out there and do things different to take my career to another level. That’s what I did.”

**CARLOS ADAMES**

“I felt great when I got the call to be on this card. I was very happy to get this opportunity.

“There are four corners in the ring, I am going to catch him eventually. Outside of the ring he may be able to run from me, but inside the ring he won’t be able to.

“It’s about a sense of responsibility. I’m always ready to fight regardless of how long I have to prepare. My responsibility is to always be ready whenever I am called upon to put on a good show for the fans.

“It’s a great opportunity and I’m very thankful to PBC and SHOWTIME for having me in consideration. I want to show what I am worth on Saturday.

“I know that my opponent is an aggressive fighter who throws a lot of punches with his right hand. I will be ready for anything. I have the capacity to adapt to whatever he wants to do, so I don’t care what he comes with because I am going to be ready.

“Being with PBC makes me feel closer to the belts. Now all I have to do is go in the ring and show what I am capable of to earn those belts as soon as possible.”

**ALEXIS SALAZAR**

“I had a lot of emotions when I learned I would be fighting on this card. More than anything, it was a dream come true because I have worked my entire life for this. I thank God for this opportunity and I’m going to take advantage of it.

“I can’t stay in front of my opponent for too long, I need to box against him. It’s what I know how to do and it’s what I’ve been preparing to do.

“I feel great and I feel really ready for this fight. This is my first time fighting in Atlanta, it’s a really nice city.

“It’s a great motivation for me to be moved up to the pay-per-view card. I feel more motivated to do what I know how to do. I train and work hard every day, so nothing’s new.

“I want to prove how ready I am and to reach new heights. I want to show people wherever you are from, it’s possible to reach your dreams. I train every day, and work hard every day and there is no better motivation for me than to work this hard and to fight on this stage.

“I’ve been getting great sparring and I’ve been training at Wild Card in Hollywood, and those guys are warriors. All my sparring partners are hungry and this past week they all showed it.

**BATYR AKHMEDOV**

“It is my first time being in Atlanta and it’s an honor for me to fight here on such a great card in front of such great people.

“Thank you so much for all of your support. I fought Mario in a World Title fight and went through a war, and now we work on the mistakes. I am ready to put on another performance, and I’ll do my best for the fans to enjoy an exciting fight.

“Under my coaches, Joel and Antonio Diaz, I have the best team in the world. It is a learning process every time whether it’s a win, lose, or draw. You have to make adjustments to your performances and that is what we did.

“I will do my best to bring the action and make the fans remember this fight. I already like the city of Atlanta. You can see right away that people like boxing here. It’s going to be a good card with good fights.

“I am very happy with the experience I have gotten in my previous fights and I expect it to help me in the future.”

**ARGENIS MENDEZ**

“I feel great, I’m very happy and very excited. I’m very happy to be here today and excited to leave with a victory.

“The most important thing is coming away with the victory. I am very focused on the fight this Saturday.

“The main event is really none of my business because in the end, I am focused on my fight. After Saturday night, I will care about whichever one of the two in the main event wins their fight because then they will be my next opponent.

“I think this will be an interesting fight because boxing has changed. Akhmedov is an Olympian, and despite the fact that he has fewer fights, he lost a controversial decision to Mario Barrios. I think this fight will present a lot of different challenges and it will be an interesting fight for everyone to see on Saturday night.

“My training was a bit peculiar in Manchester, England, which was a different setting for me. I loved every second of it. My coach couldn’t be here because of COVID-19 circumstances, but I am still supported by my team right here which is great. I’m really excited to show what I have been working on this Saturday night.”

# # #

***ABOUT DAVIS VS. BARRIOS***
Davis vs. Barrios will see four-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis set his sights on capturing a title in a third weight class when he faces undefeated WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in a SHOWTIME PPV main event Saturday, June 26 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature a battle of two top 154-pound contenders as Erickson “Hammer” Lubin faces former unified champion Jeison Rosario in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Super welterweight contender Carlos Adames will take on Mexico’s Alexis Salazar in a 10-round showdown and hard-hitting Olympian Batyr Akhmedov steps in against former world champion Argenis Mendez in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight Title Eliminator to kick off the pay-per-view telecast.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Akhmedov vs. Mendez fight is promoted in association with World of Boxing.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions, @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Super Welterweight Contender Carlos Adames Faces Alexis Salazar in Gervonta Davis vs. Mario Barrios SHOWTIME PPV Undercard This Saturday, June 26

June 24, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

***Adames vs. Salazar Replaces Julian Williams vs. Brian Mendoza Fight After Williams Suffers Elbow Injury in Training***

**ATLANTA** (June 22, 2021) – Super welterweight contender **Carlos Adames** will take on Mexico’s **Alexis Salazar** in a 10-round showdown on the SHOWTIME PPV undercard this Saturday, June 26 from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Adames vs. Salazar replaces the previously scheduled Julian Williams vs. Brian Mendoza fight, after Williams was forced to withdraw because of an elbow injury.

The event is headlined by four-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis as he seeks a title in a third weight class against unbeaten WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in the main event of a SHOWTIME PPV telecast that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event at State Farm Arena, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at https://www.ticketmaster.com.

A native of Comendador, Dominican Republic, Adames (19-1, 15 KOs) fights out of New York City as he seeks to earn a second shot at a world championship. The 27-year-old defeated a slew of contenders on his way to a 2019 title shot that he lost by narrow decision to Patrick Teixeira. Adames defeated former champion Carlos Molina, and contenders Frank Galarza, Joshua Conley and Alejandro Barrera to earn that opportunity at a title.

The 25-year-old Salazar (23-3, 9 KOs) rides a 15-fight winning streak into this matchup. Most recently, Salazar earned a unanimous decision over Ruben Barajas in their December 2020 clash. Originally from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and now fighting out of Norwalk, Calif., Salazar will fight in the U.S. for the sixth time Saturday night. His previous stateside outing saw him dominate Abraham Cordero to earn a unanimous decision in May 2019.

The non-televised undercard will feature Cuban contender **Leduan Barthelemy** (16-1-1, 8 KOs) meeting unbeaten **Viktor Slavinsky** (12-0-1, 6 KOs)in an eight-round super featherweight fight, former title challenger **Andres Gutierrez** (38-2-1, 25 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight attraction, unbeaten prospect **Dalton Brodie** (1-0, 1 KO) competing in a four-round super middleweight duel against fellow-unbeaten **Trever Bradshaw** (1-0) and undefeated Washington, D.C. born prospect **Stacey Selby** (2-0, 2 KOs) entering the ring in a four-round super lightweight bout.

# # #

***ABOUT DAVIS VS. BARRIOS***
Davis vs. Barrios will see four-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis set his sights on capturing a title in a third weight class when he faces undefeated WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in a SHOWTIME PPV main event Saturday, June 26 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature a battle of two top 154-pound contenders as Erickson “Hammer” Lubin faces former unified champion Jeison Rosario in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Super welterweight contender Carlos Adames will take on Mexico’s Alexis Salazar in a 10-round showdown and hard-hitting Olympian Batyr Akhmedov steps in against former world champion Argenis Mendez in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight Title Eliminator to kick off the pay-per-view telecast.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Akhmedov vs. Mendez fight is promoted in association with World of Boxing.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions, @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ERICKSON LUBIN VS. JEISON ROSARIO AND JULIAN WILLIAMS VS. BRIAN MENDOZA VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

June 19, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

**ATLANTA** (June 17, 2021) – Top contender **Erickson “Hammer” Lubin** and former unified champion **Jeison Rosario**, plus former unified champion **Julian “J-Rock” Williams** and **Brian Mendoza** previewed their respective showdowns during a virtual press conference Thursday before they enter the ring on the Gervonta Davis vs. Mario Barrios SHOWTIME PPV undercard Saturday, June 26 from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Lubin and Rosario will meet in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, while Williams and Mendoza square off for a 10-round super welterweight showdown on the pay-per-view telecast. The telecast also features hard-hitting Olympian Batyr Akhmedov stepping in against former world champion Argenis Mendez in the opening bout at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event at State Farm Arena, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday:

**ERICKSON LUBIN**

“This has been the best camp of my life. I know it sounds cliché, but it really has been. I’ve been in the gym since my last fight. I made a few mistakes in that fight, but Kevin Cunningham and I have been at it since last year and we’re coming to make a statement.

“This is a stacked card and we’re excited to be a part of it. I’m ready to show everyone that I’m the best fighter in this division.

“This is going to be a fan-friendly fight. I can mix it up, box or bang. Rosario always comes forward. The fans are going to love it. I’m not the fighter who tries to find an easy way out. I’m looking to make a statement.

“I think that I’m a totally different fighter than when I trained with his coach, Herman Caicedo. Me and Kevin have worked on a lot of things that regular southpaws don’t have. I’m coming in with a game plan that’s like a jigsaw puzzle. I think this is the wrong fight for Rosario to take coming off a knockout loss.

“This fight comes down to who wants it more and who prepared better. I have power too. He’s got to have the skills and have his mind there. I know I’m ready mentally. I can’t wait to fight.

“I gained a lot of experience fighting Nathaniel Gallimore and Terrell Gausha. Those are top contenders. I don’t want any tune-up fights, that’s why I took this fight against Rosario. I gained a lot of confidence and everything is clicking for me right now.

“When I become world champion, I want to be able to say that I’ve beat all the top guys in the division. That’s just how I am. I’m a competitor. Make sure you tune-in on June 26.

“It doesn’t matter if I knock Rosario out or if I don’t. My job is to look good and come out victorious. I’m going to go in there and show the world that I can make anyone in this division look bad.”

**JEISON ROSARIO**

“I feel very healthy and very strong. It’s been a great camp so far and probably one of the best camps I’ve had in my career. I’m already at the weight and I am ready to go. The Jermell Charlo fight is the past. That’s over with. This is a new camp and I feel very strong. We’re moving forward.

“I changed trainers just because I was looking for a change. Not necessarily because I lost, but because it was just the right timing. Unfortunately, it came with a loss, but that was not the reason for the change. We’ve known each other for some time. I know Herman Caicedo’s style. It’s no nonsense. No excuses. It’s all or nothing and that’s what I wanted moving forward.

“First and foremost, I have the power to knockout Lubin and anybody in the 154-pound division. The camp that I’ve had, and the little tidbits of southpaw knowledge that I’ve picked up on, make me confident that I can knock Lubin out.

“What happened in the Charlo fight was the fluke. Me winning the titles was not the fluke. I’m going to show everybody that I will bounce back from that loss and win my next fight. I have no problem taking this fight. It’s not a mistake at all. This is what we do. We fight. I’m very excited for June 26 and I expect Lubin to bring his best.

“I actually watched the Charlo fight for the first time last night. Obviously, I learned from my mistake and worked to correct it in this camp. I’m looking forward to showing what I’ve learned from that defeat on June 26.

“At 154 pounds, I can knock anybody out. I have seen some of Lubin’s fights just as a fan and he is a great fighter. It’s not easy to land shots on him or land a home run shot. So that’s not the game plan. Obviously, there is a game plan and if I do land on him, I feel that I can knock him out. But I won’t just go in there trying to land a shot on the chin.

“I’m the type to take advantage of an opportunity when it presents itself. This is another opportunity to get right back in the picture and fight for a title, so you have to take this. Not everybody would. Erickson did and I’m cut from the same cloth. It’s the opportunity and the pride of fighting the best.”

**JULIAN WILLIAMS**

“Camp is going really well. I’ve been out in Las Vegas with SugarHill Steward grinding and putting in the work. The fans can expect an explosive performance and a victory for myself on June 26.

“I just have to be myself on June 26. I think I’m more skilled than anyone else in the division and I plan on proving that again against Brian Mendoza.

“I’ve known who Brian Mendoza is. I expect him to get beat. He’s a decent fighter, but victory is the only thing on my mind.

“I don’t want to talk about what happened before the Rosario fight because it’s in the past. I don’t want to make any excuses. It wasn’t that I didn’t focus or train hard. Right now, I’ve had a great camp and I’m prepared to win.

“With me, you’re always going to see a hungry and focused fighter in the ring. I don’t know if I’ll look much different. I think with a new coach it takes some time for the changes to start setting in.

“I went through a four-week training camp before my fight in December was cancelled because I got COVID-19. It was almost a full camp and it definitely kept me motivated going into this next training camp for this fight.

“I’m the best fighter in the division. I just lost, that’s all. LeBron James and Michael Jordan had bad nights, I can have a bad night too. I’m still the best in the division and I’m anxious to get back in the ring.”

**BRIAN MENDOZA**

“Training camp has been going great. I’m out here in Las Vegas, too. I’ve just been grinding. This is a very big opportunity for me and I plan to take full advantage of it. Everybody can expect one hundred percent and everything I have in me.

“It’s not about looking back at the one blemish on my record and crying about what happened in the past. There’s always a million excuses behind the scenes, but it is what it is. I learned from that loss and you guys have seen the change in my performances since that fight and how I was more comfortable at 154 pounds in my next fight. I feel like this next fight will pull out even more from me. You guys will see another big jump in my skill level on June 26.

“I do feel that I have everything to gain in this fight and nothing to lose. I keep telling people on fight night that you’re not going to see somebody that’s just happy to be here and happy to get to this point. I have big goals and this is the perfect fight. So you’re going to see me coming with everything I have and coming for the victory. I have everything to gain.

“I feel like I’m catching Julian Williams at the right time because of where I am in my career. It’s about me. This is the right time. I’m 27-years-old and I’ve been a pro for many years now. I just feel like the schooling that I’ve had is really starting to come out and I’m hitting that next level. I’m not worried about what’s going on with Williams. I know he’s still coming with everything he has to prove that he still has it and that he’s still in the mix.

“A lot of people get to this point and they get a big fight like this and they think they’ve made it. They get happy just to be here, but you won’t see that at all with me. I’ve always visualized being at the top of this sport and climbing to the very top. I’m taking full advantage of this opportunity and you’re going to see somebody very hungry on June 26.”

**LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions**

“This is a really terrific card from top to bottom. Julian Williams is one of my favorite fighters. He’s a former unified champion who’s going to take on the tough Brian Mendoza. Williams is looking to make a big statement that he’s still a force and that he’s ready to get back in the mix with the other top 154-pounders.

“The co-main event could be a main event on its own. With Lubin and Rosario, we’re really excited to see who will emerge from that fight ready to challenge for a world title once again. We can’t wait for June 26.”

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

MARIO BARRIOS TRAINING CAMP QUOTES AND PHOTOS

June 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

**WBA Super Lightweight Champion Barrios Takes on Four-Time World Champion Gervonta Davis Headlining SHOWTIME PPV^®Saturday,**
**June 26 from State Farm Arena in Atlanta**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Mayweather Promotions**

**HAYWARD, CALIF.** (June 10, 2021) – Unbeaten WBA Super Lightweight Champion **Mario “El Azteca” Barrios** shared updates on training camp and previewed his upcoming showdown against four-time world champion **Gervonta “Tank” Davis** before they square off in the SHOWTIME PPV main event Saturday, June 26 from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the live event at State Farm Arena, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased atticketmaster.com.

The 26-year-old Barrios will be looking for a signature victory on June 26, and will bring a 5 ½ inch height advantage into the matchup against Davis. Since moving up to 140-pounds, Barrios is 9-0 with eight knockouts, and scored multiple knockdowns in the only fight that went the distance, his title-winning performance over Batyr Akhmedov. The San Antonio-native is buoyed by having renowned veteran trainer Virgil Hunter in his corner.

Here is what Barrios and Hunter had to say about training camp, Davis and more:

**MARIO BARRIOS**

“This is a huge opportunity for me. Gervonta Davis has a huge name in the sport and outside of it. This is the type of fight that can accelerate both of our names after June 26.

“I think Gervonta and his team might have bit off more than they could chew with this fight. I’m not one to talk too much, but we’ll see how it plays out when we step into the ring on June 26.

“’Tank’ is going to be in there with a full blown 140-pounder. He’s not going against someone past their prime or going up in weight. I’m a guy who goes out and gets stoppages. He’s facing someone just as dangerous as he is, but two weight classes higher than what he’s used to seeing.

“We know Gervonta is a dangerous fighter. We know the threat that we have in front of us. But I’m just as dangerous, if not more dangerous. I’ve been dangerous at 140 pounds for quite some time now.

“I have speed, power and explosiveness, just like Gervonta. But I have the length and physical stature to present problems that he’s never faced before.

“I know that I have power that carries from round one through round 12. He’s not used to being at this weight and we’re going to see how he handles that move up.

“I’m confident because I have a great team behind me. I’ve had a tremendous training camp. I go into every fight with confidence in my preparation. Just like every fight, I’m more than prepared for fight night.

“This is going to be fireworks from the opening bell. We have everything we need to make this the ‘Fight of the Year’.

“This is the moment that I’ve been dreaming of since I was a kid. It just goes to show that everything I’ve been working for my whole life is now unfolding in front of me. This is just the beginning and I’m ready to seize this opportunity.”

**VIRGIL HUNTER, Barrios’ Trainer**

“The preparation is going really well. We feel really good. Mario is as ready as he can be, so we’re looking forward to an exciting fight. He understands the importance of this fight. It’s a career-defining fight at this stage of his career, so he understands the significance of it. He understands what a victory means and what a setback means. He understands right where he is. His career is still in front of him because he’s a young fighter. But at this stage, it’s a very important fight and a victory would mean a lot.

“You always have to acknowledge ‘Tank’s’ punching power. You have to acknowledge his quickness and his IQ. His attributes appear to be very much real from what I’ve seen. There’s not anything about him that you cannot take seriously. You have to take everything about him seriously. He’s got a good corner and good people behind him so that makes for a formidable opponent.

“Mario’s reach and height is an advantage if you know how to use it to your advantage. It could be an advantage or could be a disadvantage. The thing is that we’re going to find the avenues to take advantage of it and make it work for us. On the other hand, it could be a disadvantage. Height and reach has never meant much to me in boxing because there are ways to overcome each stature that a fighter possesses. It’s who imposes their strategy and who imposes their will on the other who I think is going to come out victorious.

“The work ethic is there. Mario has a high ceiling that he hasn’t reached yet. He’s going towards that, but when he came here, he came with a high ceiling. A lot of fighters come and they’ve reached their ceiling, so there’s only so much you can do with them. But Mario has a lot of room for improvement and growth and I would say the best Mario Barrios is coming a couple years from now. But that doesn’t mean that he won’t be victorious on June 26. He definitely has what it takes to be victorious.”

# # #

***ABOUT DAVIS VS. BARRIOS***
Davis vs. Barrios will see four-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis set his sights on capturing a title in a third weight class when he faces undefeated WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in a SHOWTIME PPV main event Saturday, June 26 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature a battle of two top 154-pound contenders as Erickson “Hammer” Lubin faces former unified champion Jeison Rosario in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Former unified super welterweight champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams returns to the ring to take on Brian Mendoza in a 10-round showdown and hard-hitting Olympian Batyr Akhmedov steps in against former world champion Argenis Mendez in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight Title Eliminator to kick off the pay-per-view telecast.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Akhmedov vs. Mendez fight is promoted in association with World of Boxing.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions, @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.

boxing

Unbeaten Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz A visionary in trunks and gloves People’s champ of Worcester

June 11, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

WORCESTER, Mass. (June 10, 2021) – Unbeaten lightweight prospect Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (14-0-1, 8 KOs) is a visionary, clearly seeing the day he becomes the first Worcester (MA) native to become a World boxing champion, as well as headlining a show at home in front of thousands of his growing legend of fans, and much more.
The 25-year-old Ortiz, former World Boxing Council (WBC) World Youth lightweight, has his sights set on greatness and the boxing world got a glimpse of his vast talent in his last two fights, both showcased on high-profile cards.

His seventh-round stoppage of Sulaiman Segawa (13-3-1, 4 KOs), who had never been previously stopped, last November on the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones, Jr. pay-per-event was the first time for most boxing fans outside of New England to watch him in action.

He followed that performance with an even better one last month on ESPN+, despite settling for a questionable 8-round draw against undefeated Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno (14-0-2, 12 KOs), in which most observers felt Ortiz deserved a victory.

“I’ve seen a statue of myself in the City of Worcester…..like Rocky in Philadelphia,” Ortiz said, “but not only for what I do in the ring. I am part of this city. I’m the People’s Champ! I’m willing to do whatever it takes to become world champion. I’ve headlined a show in Worcester, but I want to do it on a big card with thousands of fans there supporting me.”

“I joke around a lot when he talks, but I support any kid who has a dream like Jamaine,” Ortiz’ trainer Rocky Gonzalez remarked. “That’s the way all of us were taught at the Worcester Boys & Girls Club by Carlos Garcia. We believe in ourselves and I’m totally with it. Anything positive, just keep it positive.

“I think Jamaine feels the way he does about Worcester is because it’s personal with him. He was born in there. He’s always so positive at the gym with the kids. When you’re the best in the gym, everybody looks up to you, and that’s the way it is here with Jamaine. It’s important that the young kids are positive, and it is that way in our gym. A lot of that is because of Jamaine.”DCU Center and the new Polar Park are the only venues in Worcester (located 40 miles west of Boston) capable of holding 5,000 fans or more for boxing.

“Jamaine Ortiz to Worcester,” added promoter Jimmy Burchfield (CES president), “is like Micky Ward to Lowell (MA), Vinny Paz to Providence (RI), and John Ruiz to Chelsea (MA). We’re working every day for Jamaine, as we do for all of our fighters, and get ready for some big news!”

“I’ve headlined before, at the Palladium, but fighting at home in front of 5,000 or more fans on television would be great,” reigning WBC United States Silver lightweight champion Ortiz concluded. “That’s something I expect as the People’s Champion. I’ve put in the work and built a growing fanbase, which will translate into future ticket sales. I think it may take me fighting on TV in Las Vegas or Madison Square Garden for casual fight fans in Worcester to get onboard.”

“Very progressive and brilliant Worcester city officials recognize the importance of bringing high end sporting events to the area and have great plans for the sporting community in the near future,” Ortiz’ manager Dick Shappy noted. “The recent purchase of the Pawtucket Red Sox, the Boston Red Sox AAA minor league affiliate, is a testament to that. The timing is perfect right now for Jamaine as he positions himself to become Worcester’s favorite son and world champion. Boxing fans, stay tuned!

Worcester is ready to celebrate its favorite son. The Day of “The Technician” is coming!

boxing, UFC

Undefeated lightweight prospect Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz Set for Friday’s homecoming fight

February 28, 2020 FNU47 Leave a comment

WORCESTER, Mass. (February 26, 2020) – Undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth World lightweight champion Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (12-0, 6 KOs) plans to make a major statement this Friday when he fights at home in Worcester, Massachusetts, for the first time as a professional boxer.

Ortiz will headline a CES Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS® event, promoted by Classic Entertainment and Sports (CES), at the historic Worcester Palladium.

In the 8-round main event, Ortiz faces Mexican knockout specialist “Loco” Luis Ronaldo Castillo (22-5, 17 KOs), a former WBC FECOMBOX lightweight champion, in a non-title fight.

“I’m ready,” Ortiz said after a recent open workout. “It’s good getting so much support. I have a lot of people coming to the fights. To me, I only have one job – win! And I’d like to win in spectacular fashion. I want to show everybody at the Palladium and those watching on UFC FIGHT PASS that it’s all real, no hype behind my name. Everybody watching Friday night will know what I bring into the ring.”

Ortiz, 23, is a lightning-quick, gifted lightweight with tremendous upside. A decorated amateur, Ortiz is a rising star in what many believe will be a breakout year for him.

“Jamaine certainly hasn’t reached his full potential,” Ortiz’ head trainer Rocky Gonzalez commented. “He’s still young and all he really needs is more experience. He’s a good listener with great hand speed, and he switches (stances) easily. And he really believes in himself and it’s hard to beat somebody like that. I can’t teach heart, but he has that as well. I don’t know how far he can go, not yet, but he’s talented and nowhere close to being a finished product.”

The Feb. 28^th show showcasing Ortiz worldwide will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.

To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

Tickets are on sale and available to purchase at CESBoxing.com and the Palladium box office. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m./ ET.

Fight News Unlimited

Tag Archives: lightweight

Rising Star Tim Tszyu Makes Much Anticipated U.S. Debut Facing U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha Saturday, March 26 Live on SHOWTIME

Potential Instant Classics in World Cup Boxing Series “4-Man Lightweight Tournament” semifinals

Mexican Quartet announced for World Cup Boxing Series “4-Man Lightweight Tournament” February 24th in Mexico

GERVONTA “TANK” DAVIS MOVES UP TWO WEIGHT CLASSES TO BECOME THREE-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION WITH SCINTILLATING TKO OVER PREVIOUSLY UNBEATEN MARIO BARRIOS IN SHOWTIME PPV® MAIN EVENT SATURDAY NIGHT FROM ATLANTA

GERVONTA DAVIS VS. MARIO BARRIOS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

Super Welterweight Contender Carlos Adames Faces Alexis Salazar in Gervonta Davis vs. Mario Barrios SHOWTIME PPV Undercard This Saturday, June 26

ERICKSON LUBIN VS. JEISON ROSARIO AND JULIAN WILLIAMS VS. BRIAN MENDOZA VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

MARIO BARRIOS TRAINING CAMP QUOTES AND PHOTOS

Unbeaten Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz A visionary in trunks and gloves People’s champ of Worcester

Undefeated lightweight prospect Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz Set for Friday’s homecoming fight

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