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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

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(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 11th 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/sportswww.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/.

GERVONTA DAVIS LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS – Four-Time World Champion Davis Prepares for SHOWTIME PPV® Main Event Showdown Against WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario Barrios Saturday, June 26 from State Farm Arena in Atlanta

GERVONTA DAVIS LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT
QUOTES AND PHOTOS
 
Four-Time World Champion Davis Prepares for SHOWTIME PPV® Main Event Showdown Against WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario Barrios Saturday, June 26 from State Farm Arena in Atlanta
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LAS VEGAS (June 10, 2021) – Four-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis held a media workout in Las Vegas Wednesday as he approaches his showdown against WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios which headlines a SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, June 26 from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in 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 at ticketmaster.com.
 
One of boxing’s biggest stars at just 26-years-old, Davis moves up to 140-pounds for the first time in his career as he aims to add super lightweight champion to his stellar resume. With a victory, Davis will hold world championships in three different divisions simultaneously, a feat only accomplished by a few fighters in history, including Henry Armstrong and Canelo Alvarez.
 
Here is what Davis, along with trainer Calvin Ford, and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe, had to say Wednesday from the Mayweather Boxing Club:
 
GERVONTA DAVIS
 
“We can’t say who the bigger puncher is until we get in that ring and test his power. It doesn’t matter who is stronger, I want to be better than him across the board and in every aspect of the game.
 
“People who are here in the gym with me see a lot of things that I don’t need to bring out, even in my fights. Floyd is always telling me to box and use my skills, and don’t always look for the knockout. This camp we’ve actually been working on getting back to that and letting the knockout come.
 
“For me, greatness is just not going backwards. I just want to keep going forward no matter what. No matter who’s in front of me, I just have to go through them. Where I’m from, a lot of people don’t make it out, so I’m doing something right. It doesn’t even have to be an opponent, it can be something outside of the ring. I’m always chasing greatness.
 
“My thing is just beat whoever is put in front of me. When it’s time, we’ll see who the top guy is. Until then, I don’t need to speak on any other fighter than the one in front of me.
 
“Barrios and I have been through the amateurs together. He’s known what I’ve been doing. It’s crazy how life works out sometimes.
 
“I’m a team player, so whatever my team tells me has to be done to better myself, I’m all for it. That’s what’s made me so good. I don’t just stand out by myself. I have the best team in boxing.
 
“My last fight people complained that Leo Santa Cruz was too small, so I’m basically going out there and showing that a size difference doesn’t matter. I’m going to beat whoever they put in front of me. I’m trying to chase greatness.  
 
“I’m definitely looking to walk down the bigger guy. He might feel like he can walk me down. I was definitely watching Floyd fight a much bigger guy in Logan Paul and taking a few pointers from it.
 
“I don’t know what Barrios will bring, but from my side, I’m bringing everything I’ve got. You know whenever I fight, I’m bringing something for the fans to enjoy.”
 
CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer
 
“’Tank’s’ pay-per-view numbers opened up the doors for the rest of them. It’s because of ‘Tank’s’ social media. When people ask me why people gravitate towards him – he’s just like any kid that’s coming up from the inner cities. Look at basketball players – inner cities. Look at football players – inner cities. He’s showing them that if you put the right people around you and you put your mind to something, anything is possible.
 
“’Tank’, Devin Haney, Teofimo Lopez and Ryan Garcia will be the Four Kings if the fights happen. Let’s keep it real. Right now, they’re doing the same thing that the Four Kings did at the beginning stage. All we have to do is sit back and let the minds that be, do their thing. It’s going to happen. All these fights that people want to see are going to happen.
 
“Have you noticed that ‘Tank’ don’t call anybody out? He never did. But if you put him in front of somebody, he’s going to show you. If you know ‘Tank’ from the amateurs, he’s going to show up in the ring. He’s like a baby Mike Tyson.
 
“The weight isn’t what I’m focused on, it’s actually the opponent. When I started studying the opponent, his coach and I go way back in the amateurs. When we see each other, we know each other. It’s about the minds. He knows his athlete and I know my athlete. That night, it’s about the minds. It’s about who is going to hold fast to what they’re supposed to be doing. That’s the fight for me.
 
“I wouldn’t say this is the toughest test of ‘Tank’s’ career because nobody can show me the best of ‘Tank’ yet. I know the best of ‘Tank’. Ya’ll ain’t seen ‘Tank’.”
 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
 
“From top to bottom this is one of those pay-per-view events that you don’t want to miss. Anytime you have the most exciting fighter in the sport, you know it’s going to be big. Don’t expect anything less on June 26.
 
“Coach Calvin Ford is a tremendous trainer who’s been with Gervonta since day one and they have a great game plan in place. I fully expect him to be able to execute. But Barrios is coming for him. He’s got a great trainer himself in Virgil Hunter and has made great progression with Virgil.
 
“We know this is going to be a tough fight, but Gervonta just has to figure it out from the opening bell. And I believe he’ll do that, but it will take some time. Barrios is looking to upset the apple cart.  
 
“Gervonta is molding into his comfort zone. He’s becoming more comfortable with the media because he truly understands what he has in front of him. He knows that his ceiling is to be the biggest star in the sport. On the inside of the ring though, nothing has changed.
 
“The co-feature is a terrific bout with Erickson Lubin taking on Jeison Rosario. That’s going to be a very entertaining fight. A win for Lubin puts him one step closer to his ultimate goal. Lubin feels like he’s the best in the weight class and eventually right that wrong of his loss to Jermell Charlo. But he has a tough rugged fighter in front of him and that should be an exciting bout.
 
“Former unified champion Julian Williams is looking to bounce back against Brian Mendoza on the pay-per-view. Julian is obviously one of the top fighters in the division, and he’s looking to get back what he lost.
 
“In the opening bout the very tough Batyr Akhmedov is up against Argenis Mendez, who is always in go-mode. So it really shows you how highly entertaining this card is all the way through. I’m really excited to be back at State Farm Arena.”

GERVONTA DAVIS VS. MARIO BARRIOS ATLANTA PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

(Photo Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME)
 
“Barrios is coming with power, and you know for sure I’m coming with power. May the best man win,” – Davis
 
“We’ve never faced fighters like each other before. We’re going to see on June 26 if it’s the right move for him,” – Barrios
 
Four-Time World Champion Gervonta Davis Seeks Title In A Third Division Against Unbeaten Super Lightweight Champion Mario Barrios Headlining A SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, June 26
In A Premier Boxing Champions Event From State Farm Arena In Atlanta
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions
 
ATLANTA (May 20, 2021) – Four-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and undefeated WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios went face-to-face Thursday at a press conference to preview their SHOWTIME PPV main event taking place Saturday, June 26 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
One of boxing’s biggest stars at just 26-years-old, Davis will take on a career-defining challenge in the undefeated Barrios, as he sets his sights on capturing a title in a third weight class. With a victory, Davis will hold world championships in three different divisions simultaneously, a feat only accomplished by a few fighters in history. Standing in his way is the undefeated 26-year-old Barrios, who owns a 9-0 record with eight knockouts during his 140-pound reign and holds a six-inch height advantage over Davis.
 
Davis returns to fight at State Farm Arena after selling out the venue in December 2019 during a star-studded event that saw him stop former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 12thand final round to capture a lightweight title.
 
Tickets for the live event at State Farm Arena, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Friday, May 21 at 10 a.m. ET, and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.
 
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday at State Farm Arena:
 
GERVONTA DAVIS
 
“Camp has been great for me. We know that Barrios is a bigger guy and that he can punch. We’re working hard each day in the gym, because we’re going up against a big task on June 26.
 
“We all have challenges we go through in life, and that’s what makes us strong. This is another challenge that I have on my road to success. I’m ready to walk through it and keep pushing.
 
“We know this is a dangerous fight. Barrios is coming with power and you know for sure I’m coming with power. May the best man win.
 
“I took this fight because I want to be great. All the other big names at lightweight had scheduled fights so I felt like I wanted to go out and beat the best fighter out there for me.
 
“Even if he is bigger than me on fight night, it doesn’t matter. This is all part of the sport.  My goal is to break him down. If I can get him out of there, I’ll get him out of there. If it goes 12 rounds, so be it. He’s big and strong, but he’s never faced anyone like me.
 
“We have to wait and see what happens on fight night. Different styles dictate what I need to show in the fight. We’ll see what he brings to the table, and then we’ll capitalize off of it.
 
“I’m not worried about losing any speed by adding weight. I’m going to be quick regardless. I think I’m going to be at my best at 140-pounds.
 
“Like all of the rest of my fights, this is going to be action packed. Don’t go get popcorn during the fight, because it could end at any moment. I bring what boxing needs, and that’s excitement. We all know when I fight, it’s never a boring fight. From the first round, until whenever it ends, I just keep coming, in all of my fights. That’s what you’re going to see June 26.”
 
MARIO BARRIOS
 
“This is a huge opportunity for me. ‘Tank’ called me out. I know he’s trying to do something great, but this is a dangerous fight for him. It’s going to be an action-packed fight. We’ve never faced fighters like each other before. We’re going to see on June 26 if it’s the right move for him.
 
“I fight to represent my city and my people. I’m going to go out there and do my best to make everybody proud.
 
“They might be looking at my fight against Batyr Akhmedov closely. But I think he has a totally different style and that this fight will be different than what they expect if they just watch that match. I don’t know what they see in me to want this fight, but none of it matters to me. All the questions are going to be answered on June 26.
 
“’Tank’ is jumping up two weight classes. He’s doing something a lot of great fighters have done. He even said it: this isn’t an easy fight for him. We’re ready to face the best version of ‘Tank’ that anyone has ever seen and it’s going to be war.
 
“I was surprised when his name was brought up to me. But whether you like ‘Tank’ or not, he has one of the biggest names in boxing. This is the type of fight that can skyrocket my name up there to the top level of the sport.
 
“’Tank’ is a good fighter and a very explosive fighter. There is the question of whether he’s bringing his power up to 140. I don’t have any concerns about it though. He’s the guy who has to show people he can handle my power at this weight.
 
“I’m excited to be fighting in Atlanta. This is my first time here actually but I know the fans here are very passionate. I’m expecting to see a great turnout here at State Farm Arena.”
 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
 
“’Tank’ is a generational fighter. He has certain abilities that others just don’t. He’s special, but this is a dangerous fight for him. This is a tremendous challenge and I’m really excited for this fight.
 
“Atlanta is a hot market. Obviously the first fight they had in a long time was ‘Tank’ vs. Yuriorkis Gamboa and it was a packed sold out crowd in this building. The fans really enjoyed it. The city needs big events like this. We told the fans we were coming back and here we are.
 
“’Tank’ is chasing history. When you look back at a lot of all-time greats, they’ve gone through things no one else ever has. Looking to be a three-division champion at 26 years old is another example of him chasing greatness like that.
 
“’Tank’ is the most exciting fighter in the entire sport and he gives the fans what they want to see. He puts butts in seats. People gravitate to the way he fights. This new generation of fans that we have, they love him.”
 
 
 
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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/sportswww.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/.

GERVONTA DAVIS SEEKS TITLE IN A THIRD DIVISION AGAINST UNBEATEN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION MARIO BARRIOS HEADLINING A SHOWTIME PPV SATURDAY, JUNE 26

FOUR-TIME WORLD CHAMPION GERVONTA DAVIS SEEKS TITLE IN A THIRD DIVISION AGAINST UNBEATEN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION MARIO BARRIOS HEADLINING A SHOWTIME PPV® SATURDAY, JUNE 26 IN A PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT LIVE FROM STATE FARM ARENA IN ATLANTA
 
Top Contender Erickson Lubin and Former Unified Champion
Jeison Rosario Battle in WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator in Co-Main Event
 
Former Unified Champion Julian Williams Takes On Rugged Contender Brian Mendoza and Hard-Hitting Olympian Batyr Akhmedov Duels Former World Champion Argenis Mendez In Pay-Per-View Action Beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
Tickets on Sale Friday at 10 a.m. ET!
 
ATLANTA (May 19, 2021) – Four-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis will take on a career-defining challenge as he sets 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 undercard 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 for the first time in 18 months to take onBrian 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 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, go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. ET, and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. The Akhmedov vs. Mendez fight is promoted in association with World of Boxing.
 
One of boxing’s biggest stars at just 26-years-old, Davis moves up to 140-pounds for the first time in his career as he aims to add super lightweight champion to his stellar resume. Davis has already captured titles at 130 and 135-pounds. With a victory, Davis will hold world championships in three different divisions simultaneously, a feat only accomplished by a few fighters in history, including Henry Armstrong and Canelo Alvarez. Standing in his way is the undefeated 25-year-old Barrios, who owns a 9-0 record with eight knockouts during his 140-pound reign while holding a six-inch height advantage over Davis.
 
“Gervonta Davis is looking to become a three-division world champion, and has a big undertaking in front of him in challenging Barrios for his WBA title at 140-pounds,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Barrios is a warrior, and this is going to be Davis’ toughest fight to date. Atlanta, be ready for a show on June 26!”
 
Davis (24-0, 23 KOs) delivered a highlight-reel knockout in his last fight, producing another sensational and memorable performance that has made him a popular draw throughout the country. Davis stopped four-division champion Leo Santa Cruz with one powerful uppercut in that October 2020 fight and put Santa Cruz down and out for the first time in his illustrious career. Promoted by Mayweather Promotions, Davis will make his second headline appearance on pay-per-view as he has asserted himself as a must-see headline attraction in his first pay-per-view
 
Davis first burst onto the scene with an explosive knockout victory over Jose Pedraza to win the IBF Junior Lightweight World Title in a star-making performance on SHOWTIME® in January 2017. At the time, he became the youngest world champion in boxing at age 22. The Baltimore-native also owns knockout performances in world title fights over Jesus Cuellar in 2018 and Yuriorkis Gamboa in 2019. The 2019 triumph over Gamboa came at a sold out State Farm Arena, during a year that also saw him fill venues in his hometown of Baltimore and Southern California.
 
“I’m excited to make history on June 26 in Atlanta and become a three-division world champion,” said Davis. “Atlanta welcomed me with open arms for my fight against Gamboa and I couldn’t wait to come back and headline a spectacular SHOWTIME PPV card. Mario Barrios is an undefeated champion, but he hasn’t ever faced anyone like me before. Moving up to 140-pounds is a big challenge but I’ve been working hard in camp and I’ll be ready. Thank you to my whole team for making this historic boxing event possible. Make sure you get your tickets early because this fight is definitely selling out! Keep supporting me and I’ll fight for you!”
 
Barrios (26-0, 17 KOs) captured his 140-pound championship in September 2019, scoring two knockdowns and fighting through a cut to win a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Batyr Akhmedov. The San Antonio-native trains in Oakland, Calif., under the guidance of renowned coach Virgil Hunter. In his most recent outing, Barrios knocked out Ryan Karl in the sixth-round of their clash on the pay-per-view undercard of Davis vs. Santa Cruz.
 
Standing nearly six-feet tall, Barrios debuted as a pro at super bantamweight in 2013 and had success moving up the rankings in the super featherweight division. His first 140-pound bout came in 2017 and saw him increase his power from his previous performances. At super lightweight, Barrios has scored knockouts in every fight except the title-winning performance against Akhmedov, where his power was still on display with a pair of knockdowns.
 
“Fighting on SHOWTIME PPV is a dream come true and an opportunity that I’m going to take full advantage of,” said Barrios. “Gervonta Davis is a pound-for-pound champion and it’s going to be an honor sharing the ring with him. This fight is my shining moment and the pinnacle of the boxing world, on the biggest stage possible. Boxing fans around the globe will be watching this fight and I’m coming to shock the world. To all my Mexican fans, I’m going to bring this historic victory home for La Raza.” 
 
The 25-year-old Lubin (23-1, 16 KOs) has put together an impressive five-bout winning streak since a loss to unified 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo in 2017. In his most recent outing, he defeated U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha by unanimous decision in September of last year. Prior to the victory over Gausha, he became the first person to stop former champion Ishe Smith, in addition to a dominating victory over Nathaniel Gallimore in October 2019. A native of Orlando, Fla., Lubin is trained by acclaimed coach Kevin Cunningham as he continues his quest toward another title opportunity. After a stellar amateur career, Lubin turned pro at 18 years old in 2013, eventually being named “Prospect Of The Year” by ESPN and Ring Magazine in 2016.
 
“I’m so ready for this fight and we’ve been working hard in preparation for Rosario,” said Lubin. “This fight is another step closer to getting that world title shot. Coach Cunningham and I have a great game plan in place. We know this is going to be a tough fight and the fans are going to see a much-improved version of myself. I’ve taken my training to the next level during this training camp. Rosario is a former world champion who I know is going to bring his best, which is going to make for a great night of boxing. This card is stacked, but I’m going to steal the show with an incredible performance. I will not be denied, I’m coming out on top.  It’s Hammer Time!” 
 
Rosario (20-2-1, 14 KOs) will look to climb back into world title contention after losing his 154-pound belts to Jermell Charlo in their September 2020 clash. The 26-year-old captured the WBA and IBF belts by stopping Julian Williams in one of 2020’s biggest upsets. Born in the Dominican Republic and now fighting out of Miami, Rosario rode an eight-fight unbeaten streak into the showdown with Williams, including victories over 154-pound contenders Jamontay Clark, Justin DeLoach, Jorge Cota and Marcos Hernandez. Coming into the Charlo matchup, Rosario had established his power by earning a stoppage victory or scoring a knockdown in seven of his previous nine contests.
 
“I make no excuses for losing the fight to Charlo, but that was then, and this is now,” said Rosario. “I have turned to a new page in my career with my new trainer Herman Caicedo. I will not lose again, especially in this fight against Lubin. He’s a great contender, and I respect his abilities, but I will knock him out on June 26.”
 
Philadelphia’s Williams (27-2-1, 16 KOs) became a unified world champion at 154-pounds in May 2019 when he upset Jarrett Hurd in one of the year’s best fights, winning a close-quarters brawl by unanimous decision. The 31-year-old dropped the titles in his first defense, losing to Jeison Rosario in January 2020. Williams had been riding a five-fight winning streak going into the Rosario matchup, in which he added victories over former champion Ishe Smith and hard-hitting contender Nathaniel Gallimore to his ledger.
 
“This has been the longest layoff of my career, so I’m excited to get back in the ring,” said Williams. “Mendoza is a decent fighter. I’ve even been in the gym with him and he’s a good guy. But on June 26, it’s going to be all business. I just need to come out on top. He doesn’t have anything that I haven’t seen before. I know he’ll be ready because this is like the Super Bowl for him. So I know he’ll be ready, but I’ll be ready too. If I’m able to get the win, then it’s on to bigger and better opportunities. But I’m definitely not looking past Brian because I know how seriously he’s taking this fight.”
 
Mendoza (19-1, 13 KOs) earned a career best-victory in his last outing, beating veteran contender Thomas LaManna by unanimous decision in August 2020. The 27-year-old has fought professionally since 2014, with his only defeat coming by a narrow split-decision in November 2019 against Larry Gomez. Mendoza was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he won two New Mexico Golden Gloves Championships as an amateur, and currently fights out of Las Vegas.
 
“This fight against Julian Williams is just the fight I’ve been waiting for,” said Mendoza. “I’m planning to take full advantage of the opportunity. Julian Williams is a great fighter, but after June 26, the whole world is going to know that I belong at this level.”
 
Born in Uzbekistan and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Akhmedov (8-1, 7 KOs) represented Turkey at the 2016 Olympic games. The 30-year-old turned pro in 2017 and won his first seven pro fights, with six coming by knockout. His lone blemish came in an action-packed title fight against Mario Barrios in September 2019, where he was able to survive two knockdowns to make it a close fight, before eventually losing by decision. Most recently, Akhmedov blasted out Ray Perez in the first round of their September 2020 clash.
 
“I can’t wait to get back in the ring for a big fight on June 26,” said Akhmedov. “I’ve been training hard to get another shot at the title. I know that if I make a big statement and defeat a former world champion in Mendez, I expect my next fight will be for the title. I’m always in exciting fights that fans love, and this matchup is going to be no different.”
 
A former super featherweight champion, Mendez (25-6-3, 12 KOs) has a reputation for providing stiff challenges to the sport’s best and has proven to be a durable contender at 140-pounds, including his most recent outing that saw him drop a split-decision to Richardson Hitchins last December. In 2019, Mendez fought to back-to-back draws against super lightweight contenders Anthony Peterson and Juan Heraldez. Born in San Juan de La Maguana, Dominican Republic, Mendez now fights out of Yonkers, N.Y. and owns victories over Eddie Ramirez, Ivan Redkach and former titlist Miguel Vazquez. He has also gone toe-to-toe with former champions Rances Barthelemy and Robert Easter Jr.
 
“I am ready for anything Akhmedov brings and then a world title fight after,” said Mendez. “I believe that I beat Hitchins in my last fight, even though I was coming off a long layoff. I’m in great shape right now. Akhmedov is a hard puncher, but the fans are going to see me shine against him. There is a lot left in my tank and that will be obvious to everyone on June 26.”
 
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.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 LEGEND AND HALL OF FAMER FLOYD MAYWEATHER RETURNS TO THE RING FOR AN EXHIBITION BOUT AGAINST SOCIAL MEDIA MEGA STAR LOGAN PAUL HEADLINING A SHOWTIME PPV® EVENT ON Sunday June 6

Jean Pascal vs. Badou Jack and Jarrett Hurd vs. Luis Arias Also on Tap for Event at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens
 
Plus, Former NFL Star Chad Johnson Makes His Boxing Debut in an Exhibition Fight
 
NEW YORK  (May 6, 2021) – All-time boxing great and 2020 International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Floyd “Money” Mayweather will make his return to the ring as the undefeated, 12-time, five-division world champion squares off in an exhibition bout against social media sensation and pro boxer Logan “The Maverick” Paul, headlining a blockbuster SHOWTIME PPV event on Sunday, June 6. The anticipated clash pits superstars from two different worlds in a must-see showdown for sports and entertainment fans around the globe.
 
The event is presented by Mayweather Promotions, Fanmio and Mavathltcs and will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The pay-per-view event also will feature a pair of intriguing professional boxing showdowns, as WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal and two-division world champion Badou Jack meet in a 12-round rematch in the co-main event. Plus, former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd returns to the ring to face Luis Arias in a 10-round bout.
 
In a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in an exhibition match against an opponent to be announced. After years of off-season training with Mayweather in Las Vegas, the man once named Chad Ochocinco will test his skills in the boxing ring and bring his unique brand of fan-friendly entertainment to the star-studded event.
 
The pay-per-view telecast will begin live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Sunday, June 6.  Tickets for the live event at Hard Rock Stadium will go on sale next week with additional details regarding tickets and the pay-per-view telecast to be announced shortly.
 
Mayweather, who was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame’s Class of 2020, has a perfect 50-0 record with 27 knockouts. He racked up 12 world titles in five weight divisions during his illustrious career that spanned three decades. His brilliant boxing resume includes 24 wins over world champions, including Manny Pacquiao, Oscar De La Hoya and Canelo Alvarez. During his career, he was named the world’s highest paid athlete multiple times by Forbes, Fortune and Sports Illustrated. Mayweather has accumulated numerous “Fighter of the Year” awards, including five ESPY Awards and two Boxing Writers Association of America awards. His 2015 showdown with Pacquiao shattered the all-time pay-per-view television record with 4.6 million buys, a record that still stands. Mayweather last fought in a boxing exhibition on New Year’s Eve 2018 in Japan. His last professional boxing match was his 2017 stoppage win over Conor McGregor, the second biggest pay-per-view event in television history. 
 
As Mayweather dominated boxing en route to a perfect professional record and international stardom, Paul rose to fame on the internet. Paul, 26, welcomed the world into his life on various social media platforms including YouTube, where he has amassed more than 20 million subscribers. His legions of devoted fans supported him as he stepped into professional boxing in 2019 and sold out the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in his six-round debut against fellow YouTube star KSI. The Ohio native is a former high school wrestling standout and has been training for more than two years. Now, he readies himself to face an undefeated boxing legend. While Paul stands six inches taller than Mayweather and owns an 18-year age advantage, the social media sensation will be challenging the best boxer of his generation, in his arena.
 
Pascal (35-6-1, 20 KOs) earned a narrow split-decision victory over Jack in their December 2019 title showdown that saw both men hit the canvas. Prior to that fight, Pascal captured his interim title by handing Marcus Browne the first defeat of his professional career. Pascal scored four knockdowns in that fight, eventually earning a close technical decision when a cut suffered by Browne on an accidental head butt stopped the fight after eight rounds. The 38-year-old has been in the ring with the top fighters of his era during his brilliant career, including Bernard Hopkins, Sergey Kovalev, Carl Froch, Lucian Bute, and Chad Dawson. Pascal, who was born in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti and now lives in Laval, Quebec, won his first light heavyweight world title with a unanimous decision over Adrian Diaconu in 2009.
 
Jack (22-3-3, 13 KOs) will look to avenge the razor-thin defeat he suffered to Pascal in their first match. Jack mounted an impressive rally on the scorecards that nearly turned the match in his favor. Born in Stockholm, Jack (who represented his father’s home country of Gambia in the 2008 Olympics) now lives in Las Vegas. Jack won the 168-pound world title with a majority decision against Anthony Dirrell in 2015 and successfully defended the belt three times before being handed a hard-fought majority draw against James DeGale in one of 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 then WBC champion Adonis Stevenson in May 2018. In his most recent outing, Jack won a unanimous decision over Blake McKernan in November 2020.
 
The 30-year-old Hurd (24-1, 16 KOs) unified the WBA and IBF 154-pound titles in 2018, dropping longtime champion Erislandy Lara in the final round to win a close decision in a fight that was the unanimous 2018 Fight of the Year. The Accokeek, Maryland native lost the titles in one of 2019’s best fights, dropping a decision to Julian Williams. Hurd first became champion in February 2017 when he stopped former champion Tony Harrison in the ninth round, before going on to defend the title against another former champion in Austin Trout. Most recently, Hurd scored a unanimous decision victory over Francisco Santana in January 2020.
 
Born in Milwaukee, Arias (18-2-1, 9 KOs) will return to the ring for the first time since August 2019 when he takes on Hurd on June 6. The 30-year-old has faced some of the best in the middleweight division, including going the distance with former middleweight champion Daniel Jacobs in a 2017 duel. Arias racked up wins in his first 18 pro fights after turning pro in 2012 and is now training in Las Vegas as he prepares for this fight.
 
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.fanmio.com, the Official Digital PPV provider. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @SHOWTIMEBoxing, @MayweatherPromo and @Fanmio, and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @Fanmio.

TOP PROSPECT KEITH HUNTER TO FACE SANJARBEK RAKHMANOV IN REMATCH ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION MAIN EVENT THIS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 FROM SAM’S TOWN CASINO IN LAS VEGAS

Rakhmanov Replaces Malik Hawkins Who Was Forced To Withdraw For Medical Reasons

 

NEW YORK – February 24, 2020 – Undefeated rising prospect Keith “The Bounty” Hunter will face talented Sanjarbek “War” Rakhmanov in a rematch in the 10-round super lightweight ShoBox: The New Generation main event Friday, February 28 live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Casino in Las Vegas. Rakhmanov steps in to replace previously scheduled opponent Malik Hawkins who was forced to withdraw for medical reasons.


 
Hunter (11-0, 7 KOs) and Rakhmanov (12-2-1, 6 KOs) first met on February 5, 2019, in an eight-round welterweight contest that resulted in a narrow-split decision victory for Hunter. Although Hunter controlled the action in the early rounds and scored a knockdown in the second, Rakhmanov recovered and landed some heavy blows in the later rounds. The scorecards read 77-74, 76-75 and 75-76.

 

Rakhmanov, who fought to a draw with Alfonso Olvera on ShoBox in May of 2016, will be making his second appearance on the prospect developmental series and his ninth start at Sam’s Town Live. In his most recent performance on September 20, 2019, he broke down Andre Byrd, delivering punishment to the body for four straight rounds, leading to Byrd taking a knee and ending the fight. He currently trains with Chris Ben-Tchavtchavadze at the Mayweather Boxing Club.


 
The 30-year-old Rakhmanov, who was born in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, was a top amateur with more than 140 bouts, including a Gold Medal win at the 2009 Asian Amateur Boxing Championship. In 2013, he became the national champion of Uzbekistan. After signing with Mayweather Promotions in 2014, he turned pro with an impressive 1:21 first-round knockout over Brett Simmons in June of 2015.


 
In the ShoBox co-main event, 2016 Olympian and undefeated super lightweight prospect Richardson Hitchins (10-0, 5 KOs) takes on Rhode Island’s Nick DeLomba (16-2, 5 KOs) in a 10-round bout. Once-beaten Las Vegas native Kevin Newman II (11-1-1, 6 KOs) faces Albania’s Genc Pllana (7-1-1, 4 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight matchup to open the telecast.

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.


 
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For more information visit: www.sho.com/sportswww.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter: @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, , @mayweathersprts and, Instaram: @mayweatherpromotions, @showtimeboxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions 
#ShoBox  #SinCityShowdown

UNDEFEATED SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT KEITH HUNTER TRAINING CAMP NOTES AHEAD OF SHOBOX MAIN EVENT

Hunter Faces Fellow Unbeaten Malik Hawkins in Main Event of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, February 28 Live On SHOWTIME®

Click HERE for Hunter Photos; Credit: Team Prince Ranch Boxing


 
LAS VEGAS – February 19, 2020 – Undefeated super lightweight sensation and Las Vegas native, Keith “The Bounty” Hunter (11-0, 7 KOs), talks about training camp in advance of his upcoming showdown against fellow undefeated prospect Malik Hawkins (18-0, 11KOs) in the main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, February 28 live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.


 
In the co-main event, 2016 Olympian and undefeated super lightweight prospect Richardson Hitchins (10-0, 5 KOs) takes on Rhode Island’s Nick DeLomba (16-2, 5KOs) in a 10-round bout and once-beaten Las Vegas native Kevin Newman II (11-1-1, 6 KOs) faces Albania’s Genc Pllana (7-1-1, 4 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight matchup that opens the telecast.

 

Tickets for the Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown start at $25 and can be purchased at: https://mayweatherpromotions.com/events/.

 

Hunter, 27, returns to Sam’s Town Live after an impressive 2019, in which he won a decisive 10-round unanimous decision against Cameron Krael and scored an upset victory over former amateur standout Sanjarbek Rakhmanov. He comes from a family of fighters, he’s the younger brother of heavyweight contender Michael Hunter and his father was a well-respected boxer who sparred with Mike Tyson. Hunter has spent the entirety of his training camp at Prince Ranch Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, where he trains alongside undefeated welterweight Blair Cobbs.


 
Here is what Hunter had to say about his recent training camp and upcoming battle with Hawkins:


 
On his opponent…


 
“This is my time to shine. Hawkins is a good fighter, he is talented, but he stands in my way. I am not just fighting for myself, but for my family. If you look at my record, I’ve fought some very tough guys.  I know I’m battle ready to take my career to the next level. Hawkins is going down. I am going to make people respect the Hunter name once again


 
“I have nothing bad to say about Malik Hawkins. He is a hard-working fighter. I just feel that I am better. This is my time, and no one can take this opportunity away from me.  The problem for Hawkins is, I have trained harder than ever to get the win. I am more focused than ever.”


 
On training camp…


 
“I wanted this camp to be very specific. I get good sparring at Bones Adams’ gym and a lot of top pros have come through there like Shakur Stevenson, Manny Pacquiao, and many others. I have watched how they trained, and I have used that same work ethic and principles for this camp with the supervision of my coaches.”


 
On his status as a contender…


 
“I’m now ranked 13 by the WBA, which makes me a contender. I must get past Hawkins, so believe me when I tell you I’m going to leave everything in the ring.  I’m looking at this fight like it’s a world title. Losing is not an option.”


 
On making his SHOWTIME debut…


 
“I am excited to headline on ShoBox: The New Generation. It’s a platform that launches fighters’ careers, and SHOWTIME has a fantastic and professional production crew. One goal from the beginning was to showcase my talent on a big stage like this, now I’m here.  This is a very big opportunity for me, I’m not going to let it slip away.”


 
Hunter is managed by Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing, advised by former two-time heavyweight world champion Hasim Rahman promoted by Greg Cohen, Founder and CEO of Greg Cohen Promotions.


 
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For more information: visit www.sho.com/sportswww.mayweatherpromotions.com/events, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, and on Instagram @mayweatherpromotions, @showtimeboxing, #SinCityShowdown and #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, orwww.bit.ly/sincityshowdown.

 

RICHARDSON HITCHINS AND NICK DELOMBA DISCUSS TRAINING CAMP AHEAD OF SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MATCHUP ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions


 
LAS VEGAS – February 12, 2020 – Fast-rising super lightweight prospects Richardson Hitchins (10-0, 5 KOs) and Nick DeLomba(16-2, 5 KOs) open up about training camp ahead of their ShoBox: The New Generation co-featured bout Friday, February 28 live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.


 
In the ShoBox main event, unbeaten Mayweather Promotions’ prospect Malik Hawkins (18-0, 11 KOs) will return for his second appearance on SHOWTIME as he goes toe-to-toe with undefeated Vegas native Keith Hunter (11-0, 7 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight bout. The opening bout of the telecast will see Kevin “The Second Coming” Newman (11-1-1, 6 KOs) against an opponent to be announced in a 10-round super middleweight bout. The previously announced opponent, Kalvin Henderson, has withdrawn from the fight due to an injury.


 
Tickets for the Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown start at $25 and can be purchased at: https://mayweatherpromotions.com/events/.


 
Hitchins, of Brooklyn, N.Y., returns for his second consecutive test on the prospect developmental series. In his last outing, he earned a unanimous decision over Kevin Johnson at Sam’s Town. Hitchins, a 22-year-old 2016 Haitian Olympian, has gained notoriety for having the skillset of a veteran with a gritty and slick style inside the ring. Hitchins has credited some of his boxing development to advice and pointers he has gotten from world champion Daniel Jacobs and Shakur Stevenson, and stablemate Gervonta Davis.


 
“Nice” DeLomba, fighting out of Cranston, R.I., is coming off a five-fight win streak with three out of five wins by knockout. He’s best known for his slickness and elusiveness in the ring and looks to make a powerful statement in foreign territory as he makes his Las Vegas and ShoBox debuts.


 
Here is what Hitchins and DeLomba had to say ahead of the February 28 match-up:


 
How has training camp been going in preparation for February 28?


 

Hitchins: “Camp is good, but I’m always in camp. There’s never a time when I’m not preparing and perfecting my craft, I’m really a student of the game. I know that I’m approaching that next level in my career, so I have to stay sharp and in the gym to perform at that next level.


 
“I’m headed to Colorado to finish training camp. It’s where the Olympic training center is, and it’s a place I’ve gone a couple of times to finish my camp. The air is better up there and that really helps me to get in better shape going into the fight.”


 
DeLomba: “Training camp is going wonderful. I’m getting everything I need to prepare for the fight: nutrition, meal plans, and strength and conditioning. I’ve added a new strength and conditioning coach and I’ve tweaked things to adjust to Hitchins’ style. I’m ready to go and I can’t wait for fight night.”


 

What is your game plan going into this fight?


 

Hitchins: “My game plan is the same for every fight. Stay composed and be the first to strike. I’m at a point in my career where the competition is getting tougher so the main thing for me is keeping my defense tight. My defense will keep me in good shape during the fights as the competition gets steep. But overall, I always have the mindset that I’m the better, smarter, and faster fighter.


 
“I surround myself with champions. That’s the only way to become one and this fight gets me one step closer.”



DeLomba: “I plan to go in and fight smart; stick to the game plan my team has for me and execute it well. My goal is to overcome whatever he tries to throw at me.”


 
What do you know about your opponent?


 

Hitchins: “I don’t know much. He’s who my team picked for me so I’m just going to get the job done and take him out. On fight night, I’ll have a clearer idea of how to get him out. I can adjust to anything.”



DeLomba: “I know my opponent has quick hands and likes to throw speedy shots. I’m completely focused on myself and my training. I believe in my abilities as a fighter. I’m not intimidated.”


 
What will a victory on February 28th do for your career going forward?


 

Hitchins: “Another win carries me to that next level. I’m hungry, I come from nothing, so I stay with a chip on my shoulder. I’m appreciative of my team, Mayweather Promotions, and to SHOWTIME for providing me with this opportunity to build my name in the sport and show the world what I can do.”


 
DeLomba: “A win over Hitchins will catapult me to that next level. It’s a televised bout and this will bring me the exposure I need to branch out and expose myself to a new audience. It will improve my career tremendously.”


 
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About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 81 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 


 
For more information: visit www.sho.com/sportswww.mayweatherpromotions.com/events, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, and on Instagram @mayweatherpromotions, @showtimeboxing, #SinCityShowdown and #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, or www.bit.ly/sincityshowdown.

 

Unbeaten Former World Champion Luis Nery Takes On Fellow Unbeaten Aaron Alameda In WBC Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator Bout Live On SHOWTIME® Saturday, March 28 In Premier Boxing Champions Event From Park MGM In Las Vegas

Heavyweight Contender Otto Wallin Meets Lucas Browne In Co-Main Event And Light Heavyweight Prospects Joseph George And Marcos Escudero Battle In Rematch In Telecast Opener

Tickets On Sale Thursday, February 13 At Noon PT!

LAS VEGAS  February 11, 2020 – Unbeaten former bantamweight world champion Luis Nery will face undefeated contender Aaron Alameda in a WBC Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator headlining live action on SHOWTIME Saturday, March 28 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION® tripleheader begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features heavyweight contenders squaring off as Otto Wallin and Lucas Browne battle in a 10-round attraction in the co-main event, plus rising light heavyweights go toe-to-toe as Joseph George faces Marcos Escudero in a 10-round rematch of their November showdown on ShoBox: The New Generation that saw George win a narrow split decision.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale Thursday, February 13 at noon and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. Wallin vs. Browne is promoted in association with Salita Promotions.

“Saturday, March 28 is going to be a night full of exciting action headlined by Mexican knockout artist Luis Nery beginning his path toward a world title at super bantamweight against an undefeated Mexican contender in Aaron Alameda,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Adding in the heavyweight showdown between Otto Wallin and Lucas Browne, plus a rematch of young light heavyweights Joseph George and Marcos Escudero, fight night at Park MGM in Las Vegas is sure to deliver explosive battles from start to finish.”

Nery (30-0, 24 KOs) is a power puncher who has stopped his last 11 opponents and 15 of his last 16. The 25-year-old southpaw from Tijuana, Mexico scored a dominant stoppage victory over former champion McJoe Arroyo in March and returned in July to stop former champion Juan Carlos Payano. He scored a TKO victory over Shinsuke Yamanaka to win the bantamweight world title in 2018 and will now move up to 122 pounds to seek a world title in a second weight class.

“I’m excited to fight on SHOWTIME and I’m planning on another knockout victory to prove to everyone that I’m one of the kings of the super bantamweight division,” said Nery. “I know that I can knock out any fighter at 118 or 122 pounds, and I’m hungrier than ever to prove that I’m one of boxing’s great Mexican champions. My goal is to continue to put on great performances for the fans and I’m ready to fight anyone who is willing to step up to the challenge.”

Representing Sonora, Mexico, Alameda (25-0, 13 KOs) is unbeaten since turning pro in 2014 after a strong amateur career, and will step up in competition as he faces Nery for a shot at a world title bout. The 26-year-old is ranked No. 12 by the WBC and most recently knocked out Jordan Escobar in April 2019, after three victories in 2018. Alameda will fight in the U.S. for the second time when he enters the ring on March 28, after scoring a body shot knockout over Andre Wilson in a January 2016 bout in Los Angeles.

“I’m very excited to be making my SHOWTIME debut in the main event against a great fighter,” said Alameda. “All of the years of training and fighting have brought me to this fight on March 28. Nery is a Mexican warrior like myself and I can’t wait to lock horns with him and give the fans great action all the way until the final bell.”

The 29-year-old Wallin (20-1, 13 KOs) will return to the ring in Las Vegas, where he nearly defeated former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in September, when he opened up a gruesome cut over Fury’s right eye with a legal punch that nearly halted the fight. While Wallin dropped the decision, he proved his mettle as a potential future heavyweight champion. Representing his native Sundsvall, Sweden, Wallin trains in New York with former champion Joey Gamache. Wallin’s last fight in Las Vegas was his second in the U.S., after his debut on SHOWTIME in April ended in a no contest because of a cut suffered by his opponent in the first round.

Fighting out of New South Wales, Australia, Browne (29-2, 25 KOs) most recently scored a knockout victory over John Hopoate in November, his second win of 2019. He’s won four of his last five bouts, with his only career losses coming to Dillian Whyte and David Allen in the U.K. Browne won his first 25 pro fights, including a stoppage of Ruslan Chagaev in 2016 to capture a WBA Heavyweight Championship. He will be making his U.S. debut.

George (10-0, 6 KOs) emerged victorious in a battle of then unbeaten fighters when he faced Escudero on SHOWTIME in November, taking a split-decision victory. The 30-year-old didn’t start boxing until he was 19 and is managed by Washington Redskins All-Pro offensive lineman Trent Williams, and trained in Houston by NFL All-Pro running back Adrian Peterson and James Cooper. George will look to transition from prospect to contender by defeating Escudero again on March 28.

Escudero (10-1, 9 KOs) will look to bounce back and even the score against George, and in turn bolster his own position in the light heavyweight division. The 26-year-old from Buenos Aires, Argentina has fought primarily in the U.S. since turning pro in 2017. His amateur career saw him become a national champion in Argentina in 2014 and represent his country in the Pan-Am Games in 2015. Escudero currently trains in Miami and scored three stoppage wins in 2019 before facing George for the first time.

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

GERVONTA DAVIS VS. YURIORKIS GAMBOA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

Two-Time Super Featherweight Champion Gervonta Davis Battles Former Champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for Vacant WBA Lightweight Title this Saturday, December 28 Live on SHOWTIME 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 (December 26, 2019) – Boxing’s hottest attraction, Gervonta “Tank” Davis, and former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa, went face to face Thursday at the final press conference two days before they battle for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title this Saturday, December 28 live on SHOWTIME from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.


 
The press conference also featured WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal and two-division champion Badou Jack, who will square off in the co-main event, and former champion Jose Uzcategui and Lionell Thompson, who battle in the opener of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. 


 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale and available through Ticketmaster.com. Good tickets are still available. All tickets start at $54 and $104.


 
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel:


 
GERVONTA DAVIS


 
“Training camp has been great. I’ve been training with my brothers and sister on the undercard. Saturday night we’re going to make history again. There hasn’t been a title fight in over 20 years and I’m excited to be in this position to open doors for others and myself.


 
“This is my first time fighting in Atlanta. I’ve been coming here for over four or five years and I’ve been wanting to fight here. Atlanta always shows me love and I always thought that me fighting here would be big. I knew I had a big fan base here.


 
“Saturday night we’re going to have a big fight. Thank you to Gamboa for taking the chance. Saturday night it’s going to be an action-packed fight and we’ll see who’s got what it takes.


 
“I’m pretty sure Gamboa watched my last fight. He’s just saying he didn’t to be cocky. I know he at least watched it heading into this fight. We’ll see Saturday night. He’s been a little cocky, so I have to make him pay.


 
“I can’t say whether I’ll get the knockout, but I’ve trained very hard and I’ve been focused on the main goal, which is to get the win. I know that Gamboa is a tough opponent and he’ll lay it all on the line. If it goes 12 rounds, it doesn’t matter to me. I’m looking to make this a great fight for me and also for the fans.


 
“I believe that I haven’t gone past nine rounds and I’m undefeated, so I think that’s a good thing for me. I’ve been doing this for so many years that I believe Gamboa can’t bring anything to the ring that I haven’t seen.


 
“I know that I have to come in there focused, strong and fast. Let’s see what it all comes out to. I’m ready and hopefully he’s ready to give the fans what they want to see.


 
“Saturday night everyone should be looking for a great fight, not just from Gamboa and me, but the whole undercard. On Saturday night the fight fans win. We’re both bringing our all and we’ll see what Saturday night brings for each of us.”


 
YURIORKIS GAMBOA


 
“My job isn’t to pay attention to any trash talk. My only focus is to go in there at 150% and give it my all. I don’t care about any of the chatter outside of the ring.


 
“The confidence that I have comes from my focus and the hard work that I’ve put into this camp. I know what I have to do December 28. Everything from camp has unfolded how I wanted to leading into fight night.


 
“I’m very appreciative to have this opportunity to fight for the world title on Saturday night. I have to make the best of this position that I’m in. I’m still at the level where I know that I can compete and beat the best fighters in the sport.


 
“My focus and discipline has allowed me to get to the position that I’m in today. I’ve always relied upon that heavily and it hasn’t failed me yet.


 
“Gervonta knocking his opponents out and not going past the ninth round is great for him, but I don’t think it has anything to do with my resume. I’ve faced stronger fighters than Gervonta and I’ve been able to beat them. He’s not going to bring anything I haven’t seen.


 
“We’re thrilled that the fight landed in Atlanta and we can tell you that the fans are going to be very happy with the fight they see Saturday. I came here to win and I’m definitely ready to go all 12 rounds if I have to.


 
“I’ve had a great training camp and I know what I’m able to give on Saturday. I’m giving my all and then some. Atlanta, be ready. We’re going to give you a war.”


 
JEAN PASCAL


 
“This is my first time in the city of Atlanta and I might have to move here after my victory on Saturday night.


 
“I’m excited to be able to display my talents on SHOWTIME on Saturday night. I’m at the top of my game and my whole team has helped me get to here.


 
“Badou Jack is a solid fighter with great defense and good attack. I’ve had a great camp in Puerto Rico. I’ve been away from my family for three months and I’m war ready. Make sure you tune in.


 
“Badou and I sparred, but it was a long time ago back in 2014. Sparring is sparring. I was getting ready for Sergey Kovalev. It was a good session, but at the time he was at 168-pounds. I don’t rely on that sparring because it was so long ago.


 
“I know that Badou has had a long layoff and he’s fresh and will be even hungrier. I’m always hungry and that will make it a great fight on Saturday night.


 
“I’ve been fighting at the highest level for the last 11 years. That means something. I’m a special fighter. I have things that nobody can teach, which is a chin and a heart.”


 
BADOU JACK


 
“I had a great training camp, which everyone says, but I really do feel great. I’m 36 and I feel like I’m 26 again. I can’t wait for Saturday night to hear ‘and the new’.


 
“I guess you have to wait until Saturday night for me to prove that I still have it. I was flat against Marcus Browne, regardless of the cut, but I feel much better this time than I did heading into that fight.


 
“All of the close decisions I’ve had in the past, everyone who watched those fights knows that those were wins. Saturday night I’m going to win and there will be no doubt.


 
“Gervonta was on my undercard and now I’m on his and I’m very proud of him. He’s already a superstar.


 
“I take care of myself. I don’t do anything outside the ring to jeopardize my career. I have a great nutritionist who gives me all organic foods. You can talk to my strength and conditioning coach as far as how I’m looking, but I feel amazing.


 
“I’m going to take everything one fight at a time. I think Pascal can bring the best out of me on Saturday night. Styles make fights and I think our styles will mesh.


 
“Pascal and I both come to fight. Marcus Browne is a southpaw and he’s more evasive. So it’s hard to compare. Pascal is a tough guy and I expect nothing less than a tough fight.”


 
JOSE UZCATEGUI


 
“I’m grateful to be back in this position and I promise the crowd won’t be disappointed. I’m going to be around for a long time and I’m going to get my world title back.


 
“I don’t talk much, but since he says I only have power, we’ll see on Saturday. Don’t talk today and then run around the ring.


 
“After I knock out Lionell Thompson, we’ll see what Caleb Plant has to say after that. I hope he will stand and fight. The only reason Plant is champion is because I messed up.


 
“When I’m at my best, I’m the best super middleweight on the planet. Everyone will see on Saturday.”


 
LIONELL THOMPSON


 
“I want to thank Uzcategui and his team for taking the fight. This is my first time in the super middleweight division and I plan on being victorious.


 
“To everybody that has helped me and supported me, I promise I won’t let you guys down. I’m planning on giving my best performance on Saturday night.


 
“I’ve been in there with bigger punchers at light heavyweight and the only time I was stopped was early in my career. I’ve beaten good guys and undefeated prospects that could punch.


 
“I believe that moving down in weight, and doing it right with a nutritionist, will be better for me. Anyone can hurt you. Everyone says that he can punch, but anyone who hits you right can hurt you.


 
“I’m focused on being perfect. I don’t plan on making any mistakes. I know what I can do. Anyone who has shared the ring with me will say I’m one of the most skillful fighters out there. Floyd Mayweather even said it.


 
“I know Uzcategui is tough, but I’m not worried because I’m bringing my best. I believe I’ll be victorious. I respect him and he’s definitely a force to be reckoned with, but I just believe in myself.”


 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions


 
“Saturday night, it’s going to be lit. I’m very excited about this card. I can recall when we first talked about bringing this fight to Atlanta, there was only one name that was synonymous with tapping into a market that hasn’t had a big fight in 20 years. When it comes to excitement, the name Gervonta Davis goes hand in hand.


 
“We knew that this entire community would be involved. We know that this would be the most talked about event and create a buzz that we haven’t seen in many years.


 
“We have an outstanding undercard, including a great co-main event with Jean Pascal and Badou Jack, which I guarantee will be a very entertaining match. These two are going to lay it all on the line.


 
“From top to bottom this is a very entertaining card. Looking at the main event, when you look at Gamboa, you know what he brings to the table. We’re not buying anything about him being an older fighter. He has a phenomenal pedigree and he has seen everything in that ring. This is a very dangerous fight for Gervonta and that’s what we want. We want nothing but the best for Gervonta.


 
“I think that Gamboa is going to bring out the best in “Tank” on Saturday night. We’re going to give you an entertaining card from top to bottom, with a main event that’s going to end in a knockout.”


 
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.


 

“It’s a big weekend for SHOWTIME as we have eight big boxing shows over the next 10 weeks, featuring some of the biggest names in the sport and some of boxing’s top young prospects. We couldn’t kick it off with a better fight card this Saturday night.


 
“It’s time to quit calling Gervonta a young star or a rising star, because what he has demonstrated this year is that he’s a bonafide star. That is without question when you go into three cities and bring out all the people that he has. 


 
“At the end of the day, none of that matters on Saturday night. That’s what we love about this sport. You have labels, critics and big names, but none of it matters when the bell rings. Each one of these six fighters up here fights like an underdog, because they’ve all been underdogs before.


 
“Gervonta and Gamboa fight like they’re hungry and like they’re angry. They fight like there’s one plate in the middle of the ring. In the co-main event, with Badou Jack and Jean Pascal, I’ll put their resumes against any fighter in the sport. They’ve fought tough fight after tough fight and they’re still fighting on this stage. Uzcategui is one of the hardest punchers in the sport, and Lionell Thompson is looking for his shot. With all of this together, we’re in for an entertaining night.”


 
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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA

Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank’’ Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

 

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

 

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