Tag Archives: New York

boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Boxing Stars Badou Jack, James DeGale, Jose Pedraza & Gervonta Davis Give Back Before Thanksgiving Holiday & January 14 Showdowns

Leave a comment

 

 

 

(Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME)

 cid:image002.jpg@01D244A2.FD596290

Fighters Deliver Thanksgiving Meals at

Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger in Brooklyn

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, January 14

from Barclays Center in Brooklyn

 

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/Mayweather Promotions/

DiBella Entertainment

 

BROOKLYN (November 22, 2016) – In the spirit of the Thanksgiving holiday, super middleweight world champions Badou Jack and James DeGale, plus junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten challenger Gervonta Davis, donated and distributed Thanksgiving meals at the Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger in Brooklyn before their press conference last Wednesday to discuss their respective January 14 showdowns taking place at Barclays Center and live on SHOWTIME.

cid:image003.jpg@01D244A2.FD596290

(Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME)

 

The fighters handed out 100 turkeys along with other Thanksgiving foods to help aid the organization that has provided millions of meals for people in the area. Hailing from countries all around the world, the fighters got together to give back in the borough that they will be competing in come January. To learn more about the Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger visit www.bedstuyagainsthunger.org.

cid:image004.jpg@01D244A2.FD596290

(Photo Credit: Tom Casino/Mayweather Promotions/DiBella Entertainment)

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

cid:image005.jpg@01D244A2.FD596290

(Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME)

 

# # #

 

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @ShowtimeBoxing @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Badou Jack vs. James DeGale Press Conference  Quotes & Photos

Leave a comment
 
(Photo Credit: Tom Casino/Mayweather Promotions)
 
Super Middleweight World Championship Unification Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Live on SHOWTIME
 
Featuring Junior Lightweight World Champion Jose Pedraza
Battling Undefeated Contender Gervonta Davis
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME®
 
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/Mayweather Promotions
 
BROOKLYN (November 16, 2016) – A star-studded press conference took place at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Wednesday, as Floyd Mayweather, along with several New York boxing “ambassadors,” signified the return of boxing to New York by announcing the super middleweight world championship unification fight featuring Badou Jack against James DeGale that will take place Saturday, January 14 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME®.
Also announced on Wednesday and featured on the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast is undefeated junior lightweight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza taking on unbeaten rising contender Gervonta “The One” Davis.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available starting this Friday, Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
 
The press conference signified the return of boxing to New York for the first time since a controversial insurance measure instituted by the New York State Government. Participants were on hand to discuss the exciting doubleheader on January 14 and celebrating the long awaited return of boxing to The Big Apple.
Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:
BADOU JACK
“I think this will be an exciting fight. I’m going to give it my all and he’s going to give it his all. This is a bigger fight than anything we’ve been a part of. He’s going to turn it up and so will I.
“Now it’s me and DeGale. All the other fights are in the past. We’ve had different results against the same fighters. But none of that matters, it’s time to fight.
“A real champion can take a loss and bounce back. It shows what kind of person you are. I’ve proven I’m mentally tough.
“Boxing is not dead. It’s here to stay. There are some very good fights coming up. Probably even more next year.
“I came from Sweden, a country that has no boxing. Now I’m here headlining in New York for a unification fight. The sky is the limit. I always stay humble and never forget where I came from.
“It’s not going to matter what people think on fight night. DeGale is definitely one of the top guys in the division. He’s a road warrior. He comes over here and fights guys in their backyards. He deserves a lot of credit. That’s why this fight is so big. We both want to be great.
“I like being the underdog. If I’m the underdog in this fight, then that’s perfect for me. There won’t be any excuses when I beat him.
“I just try to stay humble win after win and keep looking forward to bigger and better things. After this fight come talk to me about who is the best in the division.
“I don’t want to compare myself to anyone else but I’ve had a couple of good years. Now we’re working to have two even better years.
“I made a mistake and got caught in my loss. I was able to bounce back and it made me a way better fighter. It was definitely a blessing in disguise. People are still overlooking me because of it. I look at it as a good thing.
“Everything happens for a reason. I’m very blessed to be here in Brooklyn. This is my second home in America. I trained at Gleason’s Gym in 2009 and now I’m headlining at Barclays Center. It’s amazing.”
JAMES DEGALE
“It’s here. The big one. The best fighting the best. Number one against number two. Badou Jack is a very good fighter. He doesn’t do anything spectacular, but he’s a compete fighter.
“I have that X-factor. I’ve lost before and I’m not going to lose again. I’ve come too far in my life to lose this opportunity.
“On January 14, Brooklyn is in for a treat. You will not want to miss this one. Make sure you get your tickets.
“My people in London can’t wait for me to fight at home. It’s coming. But first I want to take over in America.
“New York is one of my favorite cities. It’s a boxing city. I watched Santa Cruz vs. Frampton and it was a wicked atmosphere. I can’t wait to be in there.
“I’m very confident in my abilities. I believe I’m the best in the division and one of the best in the world. I’ve been waiting for this fight for a long time and I’m ready to get in there.
“I think in the last three fights I’ve shown everything. I haven’t been getting the respect that I deserve. I’ve beaten everyone put in front of me. This is what I love to do.
“I’m a natural super middleweight. I want to be in fights where people think I’m going to lose. I’ll challenge anybody.
“Me and Badou Jack are two different fighters. I think I’m going to beat him wide on the scorecards or stop him.”
JOSE PEDRAZA
“I’m thankful to everyone here and my people from New York who I know will be supporting me on fight night.
“I expect this to be a very exciting fight. I’m going to be ready for anything that Davis will bring into the ring. I’m going to take care of business.
“I’m very privileged to help with this cause and to help push boxing in New York. I’m going to represent my people on January 14 and I’m very proud of the opportunity.
“If Davis says he has to be killed to be beaten, then he’s going to have to go down.
“I’m undefeated and I will remain undefeated after January 14. I know Davis is a strong kid, but he isn’t on my level. I am looking to dominate this fight.
“Fighting at Barclays Center is really a dream come true. I know that I will have a lot of support from the Puerto Rican boxing fans and I’m going to train hard to perform for them.
“I’m sorry for Davis to be signed for Mayweather, because when I take away his undefeated record, I’m going to feel like I beat Mayweather.”
GERVONTA DAVIS
“It feels great to fight in Brooklyn for the first time. I’ve never fought in New York and it’s tremendous. I’ll have a lot of hometown fans driving up to here for the fight.
“Pedraza is a tough opponent. We’re going to work hard in camp and be ready to fight on January 14.
“My hometown has been backing me for all of these years. On January 14, I get my shot. It’s amazing. I know Pedraza is a great fighter. People will say he has more experience. But I had 206 wins in the amateurs and a lot of titles.
“There’s nothing Pedraza can bring to the ring that I haven’t seen before. I’ve been battle-tested inside the ring and outside the ring.
“He’s going to have to kill me to retain his title. I’m coming home a champion. There’s no doubt about it.
“On paper this is definitely my hardest task. We’re both great fighters. I hope he trains hard because I’m training for the fight of my life.
“I’m going to steal the show on January 14. I’m going to get Pedraza out of there and then work to unify the division against the other champs.”
FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions
“We’re back. What other better city to be in, than New York City? It was always one of my dreams to fight in New York City. I’m glad I’m in a position to put fighters out there to give the fans what they want to see. New York City is the best place for boxing.
“For years and years these fighters have worked so hard and dedicated their lives to get to this point. I’m thankful for everyone who is supporting us and supporting our movement.
“The only thing we’re going to do is continue to build these fighters and help these fighters get to the highest heights. So many people have helped me get to this point, where I can give back to these young fighters.
“Lou DiBella is a guy I love to work with. The boxing business is about working together. Leonard works hard day in and day out to put these fighters in the best position, and I do the same. It’s all about working to get these fighters to the next level.
“We’re here in New York and we want to bring boxing to New York City. This is one of the meccas of boxing. The whole state has embraced me throughout my career.
“I’m very proud of Badou Jack. He’s a guy who carries himself like a gentleman. That’s what a true champion does. He’s very respectful, humble and appreciative.
“Badou Jack is such a hard worker and he’s very appreciative. I remember the position he was in. He’s still very thankful and humble now that he’s in a great position in his life and career.
“I’m just happy that I’m able to put fighters in a good position. They then have to take advantage of the position I put them in.
“We want to continue to do fights in this arena and bring championship boxing to New York City. We want to give you great shows again and again.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“This is a tremendous platform. Coming to New York is something that Floyd has been advocating for. He’s wanted to bring a big event here and come January 14 that’s what the fans are going to get. We have a great night of fights from top to bottom.
“This is everything for Badou. This is why you lace them up when you’re a kid. This is an opportunity to be the best. He’s the best 168-pounder in the world and on January 14 he’ll have that platform to do it.
“When it comes to unification, you don’t see too many unified champions. The best fighting the best is what it’s all about. DeGale is an Olympic gold medalist and a world champion. He’s fought some very good fighters. Badou will be making his third title defense and there is no better opponent than DeGale.
“When two guys come together and they want to determine who’s the best, with everything on the line, that’s what it’s all about.
“The fans can expect to see Mayweather Promotions go back to Las Vegas with two world champions. One will be a unified champion and one will be the new super featherweight world champion.
“This is a great step-up for Gervonta. That’s what life is about, stepping up and taking risks. That’s why you get into the sport. He’ll have his full arsenal on display on fight night.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“Fans should go out and buy their tickets once they go on sale. There is going to be a show here on January 14. We have lawyers and insurance people on it and we will pay what needs to be paid.
“This announcement not only represents a fight announcement, but a call to action to all boxing fans. Boxing needs your help in New York. We need to change or repeal this law that has really shut us down. Even if we can get really expensive insurance for January 14, the small promoters and small fights and grassroots boxing have come to a standstill.
“Come out to this incredible fight card on January 14. Jack vs. DeGale is as good as it gets. Jose Pedraza is Puerto Rico’s only champion and he’s defending against Gervonta Davis. That is a great fight. The undercard is also going to be terrific.
“It also represents boxing trying to take its rightful place back. We’re not sitting back in 2017 and letting our industry be brought to a halt. We’re going ahead and announcing January 14. But we need everyone’s help with respect to making the necessary changes to allow our sport to thrive in this space again.
“I promoted Badou early in his career and he is a terrific fighter. He does everything well. He’s active in the ring and he makes good fights, and so does DeGale. He comes forward and fights. These two guys are going to throw down. This is a fan friendly main event. With huge significance.
“The opening bout features Puerto Rico’s only champion, fighting in front of New York’s huge Puerto Rican community. Gervonta Davis comes right up from Baltimore and it’s a can’t-miss fight.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“We want to reinforce our commitment to boxing. Not just from a Barclays Center perspective, but from a state perspective. Boxing is very important to the history here in New York and we want that to continue. We want to take a lead position as the sport continues to grow and thrive in the marketplace.
“We have become one of the premier venues in the country for boxing. We look forward to a very successful 2017. This fight in particular is very important to us. We haven’t had a championship event here since July. Floyd being involved brings a whole different dynamic as well and we’re excited for a tremendous undercard full of Brooklynites.
“Floyd has been here to the Barclays Center several times and we’re thrilled that he’s back. It’s a pleasure to welcomes Badou Jack and James DeGale to Brooklyn and I’m confident that you will like the Brooklyn crowd.
“There has not been a major boxing event at Barclays Center since the July 30 Santa Cruz vs. Frampton card and we’re proud to take the lead on bringing boxing back to New York. We’re excited that January 14 will be the first major boxing card in New York in 2017. We are more committed than ever before to bringing boxing to Barclays Center.
“It’s a very exciting time for the building, for the sport and it should be an electric evening for the sport.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“This card is unique, high quality and special. You don’t see cards like this every day. These four fighters have made a combined 14 appearances on SHOWTIME. We’re very proud of these four fighters.
“To create and deliver special events, it takes commitment. When you’re committed to a cause, special things happen. We’ve done special things with Mayweather Promotions and now we have this great card coming to us.
“The four young men on the stage today are some of the most talented and accomplished athletes in the sport. This is the best this sport has to offer. They’re committed to taking on other accomplished athletes. We have four of those fighters here on the televised portion and we have to salute them.
“New York City has a tremendous history in boxing. It’s hosted the biggest fights in the history of the sport. Barclays Center has emerged as the biggest and most aggressive supporter of boxing on the east coast. We’re optimistic that there won’t be any holdup getting to January 14.
“No network is as committed or as passionate about boxing as SHOWTIME is. The biggest and the best fights are on SHOWTIME. No other network is televising fights like these. Top five versus top five and champion versus champion. There is no better way to kick-off boxing in 2017 than with this great card at Barclays Center.”
ERIC ADAMS, Brooklyn Borough President
“Now is the call for action. We have witnessed what happens when the call for action is not personified and mobilized. Too many people pass legislation and are focused on the paper it’s written on, instead of the people who are impacted by it. It is clear that New York state is the Empire State where we build empires instead of destroying them and we are destroying the empire of boxing in New York.
“If we don’t do something about this piece of legislation, then these fighters will no longer have the aspiration to fight in the state that they love. That cannot happen. New Yorkers don’t follow the agenda, we lead the agenda. We must do that to make sure this is done correctly.
“We are going to mobilize and move in the right direction while protecting the fighters. We don’t want to knock out boxing in the state of New York. That cannot happen.
“This is going to be a great opportunity for these fighters and for Brooklyn and we are thankful to the team at Barclays for putting these fighters on this great stage.”
# # #
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Badou Jack & James DeGale Meet in Super Middleweight World Championship Unification Showdown Saturday, January 14 From Barclays Center in Brooklyn Live on SHOWTIME

Leave a comment
 
Junior Lightweight World Champion Jose Pedraza
Battles Undefeated Rising Star Gervonta Davis in
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Action
 
Tickets on Sale Friday at 10 a.m. ET!
 
BROOKLYN (November 16, 2016) – WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Badou Jack (20-1-2, 12 KOs) and IBF Super Middleweight World Champion James DeGale (23-1, 14 KOs)will look to stake their claim as the best 168-pound fighter in the world when they meet in a title unification clash on Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME as boxing returns to New York for the first time in five months.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also feature undefeated junior lightweight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (22-0, 12 KOs) defending his title against up-and-coming Mayweather Promotions’ undefeated contender Gervonta “The One” Davis (16-0, 15 KOs).
“I’m expecting a very tough fight from James DeGale,” said Jack. “But I’m very confident that I’m going to win the fight and become the unified champion. This is an incredible stage to be at Barclays Center and on SHOWTIME and I’m going to take full advantage of it. I’m ready to make my mark as the best in the division.”
“I am so happy that this fight has finally been made,” said DeGale. “This is the best fighting the best. This is what boxing is all about. Badou Jack is a very good fighter and he’s underrated. I am going to have to be 100 percent on my game to beat him, but I am confident I will deliver on January 14. I have already fulfilled my dream of becoming a world champion and now it is time to unify.”
“Davis is a great young fighter with an impressive record,” said Pedraza. “He is a complete fighter and I am very happy to fight a challenger of his caliber. However, I do feel that Davis has been protected so I plan to really show off in this fight and perform at my best. Defeating Davis will be a great start to 2017, a year I would love to unify my division. I am thrilled to be back on SHOWTIME and look forward to putting on a great show for all those in attendance at Barclays Center.”
“I’m excited for the opportunity to fight a respected undefeated world champion like Jose Pedraza,” said Davis. “I’m also ready to show the boxing world what I’m capable of doing. Boxing is searching for its next star and I believe that I’m the one. On January 14, I plan to show what over 200 amateur wins and 12 years of training with coach Calvin Ford looks like. Baltimore, we’re here. Brooklyn, I’m ready to shine for you. Jose Pedraza, get ready. I’m coming to kick your a**.”
“Mayweather Promotions is pleased to have the opportunity to bring this huge event to Brooklyn and Barclays Center,” said Floyd Mayweather, President of Mayweather Promotions. “Badou Jack versus James DeGale is one of the best match-ups in the sport. It’s the best fighting the best. I believe that Badou Jack has what it takes to be a unified world champion. I’m also excited to see Gervonta Davis fight for his first world title. He has the skills to be a fighter who carries the sport. He has a tough, undefeated world champion in front of him and I am looking forward to seeing him perform on January 14. These are two evenly-matched fights that will bring a lot of explosive action to the ring on fight night, you don’t want to miss it.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available starting Friday, Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Both Jack and DeGale retained their titles on SHOWTIME in April. Jack kept his belt via a controversial split draw against Lucian Bute, a match in which many thought Jack had prevailed, while DeGale defeated mandatory challenger Rogelio Medina. Both fighters were sharp; each landed over 60 percent of his respective power punches to set up this showdown for the top spot in the super middleweight division.
“We’re looking forward to bringing our first boxing event to Barclays Center in Brooklyn on January 14, when Badou Jack will face James DeGale in a world title unification bout live on SHOWTIME,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Badou has a tremendous work ethic and ability to stay focused and this has helped him get to where he is now in his career. He’s prepared to keep putting the hard work in to stay on top. Every time he was counted out, it just made him work harder. He’s proof that if you stay focused and dedicated to your craft, you can reach your dreams. I’m also eager to see Mayweather Promotions’ own Gervonta Davis in his first world title fight. We believe there is a bright future ahead for that young man and this could be the first step on his way to a truly special career.”
“Boxing will return to New York in 2017 with a tremendous card at Barclays Center on January 14 featuring two high caliber championship contests,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “With Badou Jack and James DeGale facing off, you have champion versus champion, the best fighting the best in what promises to be an action-packed battle in a super middleweight unification. Puerto Rico’s only world champion, undefeated Jose Pedraza, will defend his junior lightweight title against a hungry, heavy-handed challenger in Gervonta Davis.”
“Jack vs. DeGale is a terrific start to 2017,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. “I want to thank Floyd Mayweather for making this fight happen and to Lou DiBella for his continued support of BROOKLYN BOXING. In our fifth year at Barclays Center, we are committed to boxing more than ever before.”
“In 2016, SHOWTIME delivered more high-quality, competitive fights than any other network and 2017 will be no different. We’re thrilled to kick off the year with a true ’50/50′ unification fight between two world champions in the prime of their career,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports. “Badou Jack vs. James DeGale is boxing at its best – a matchup between the No. 1 – and No. 2-ranked boxers in the division – the right fight happening at the right time. And the Jose Pedraza-Gervonta Davis co-feature, which features two of boxing’s rising stars, could have been a main event on its own. There is no better way to begin the year, as well as our tremendous run of four separate SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING presentations over a seven-week span.”
Jack, who fights out of Las Vegas by way of Stockholm, Sweden, captured the WBC 168-pound crown with a 12-round majority decision over previously unbeaten defending champion Anthony Dirrelllast April 24.  A former amateur standout who represented Gambia in the 2008 Olympics, Jack retained his belt against former world title challenger George Groves last Sept. 12 on the undercard of Floyd Mayweather’s final fight. Jack was an underdog against both Dirrell and Groves before retaining his title.  The 6-foot-1, 33-year-old won four in a row leading up to his controversial draw against Bute in April.
 
DeGale won the vacant IBF belt in his U.S. debut last May by dropping Andre Dirrell twice on his way to a unanimous decision. The 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist from London then successfully defended it last November in a thrilling shootout with the hometown favorite and former titlist Bute.  The 30-year-old, who’s only blemish came in a majority decision in his 11th bout against the then-unbeaten Groves, will make his fourth consecutive start outside his native England as he looks to become a global power and a unified champion at 168 pounds.
The switch-hitting Puerto Rican Olympian Pedraza backed up his “The Sniper” moniker against Andrey Klimov, picking apart the Russian with superior speed and accuracy on his way to a world title win last June. Pedraza earned a shot at the title in his previous bout with a career-best victory over former world title challenger Michael Farenas. The 27-year-old then went on to defend his title successfully against Edner Cherry last October and most recently against Stephen Smith in April. This fight marks the fourth consecutive time that Pedraza has fought on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.
A highly regarded prospect that won the 2012 National Gloves championship, the 22-year-old Davis recorded five victories inside of the distance in 2015. The Baltimore native, who Floyd Mayweather has called “the next big star in boxing,” kept his momentum going into 2016 as he recorded a sixth-round stoppage of Guillermo Avila in April and a first round knockout of Mario Macias in June. Davis enters his first world title showdown with seven straight victories by stoppage.
# # #
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Ring 8

Brian Adams & Bob Mladinich Ring 8 Guest Speakers Tuesday night in NY

Leave a comment
 NEW YORK (November 10, 2016) – Daily News Golden Gloves Tournament director Brian Adams and highly respected boxing writer Bob Mladinich and will be Ring 8’s guest speakers this coming Tuesday night (Nov. 15) monthly meeting, starting at 7 p.m. ET, at O’Neill’s Restaurant, located at 64-21 53rd Drive in Maspeth, New York.

“
Brian and Bob have experience in a variety of areas in boxing,” Ring 8 president Bob Duffy said.  “Both guys boxed earlier in their lives.  Brian rates among the top site coordinator in our sport and Bob is a veteran boxing writer. Our members know both these men very well and they’re anxious to hear them speak about their experiences and expertise.”
A 4-time New York Golden Gloves champion, Adams is the director of the largest amateur boxing tournament in the world, as well as being an acclaimed broadcaster for promoter DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing series.  Brian fought professionally from 1997 to 2003, retiring with a 17-4-1 (8 KOs) record, highlighted by his decision over previously undefeated lightweight Calvin Davis (19-0) at the famed Madison Square Garden, and knockout of 28-2-1 Luis Villalta.

Mladinich is a retired New York City Gold Shield detective who regularly writes for boxing.com.
boxing, charity, Team Fight to Walk

Melson to coach charity game; host boxing clinic for recovering heroin addicts

Leave a comment
New York, NY (October 23, 2016) – “The Rainmaker” Boyd Melson, a professional boxer and WBC U.S. Boxing Champion, Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve, West Point Graduate, philanthropist, and humanitarian will serve as a coach in the Team Fight To Walk Celebrity Charity Basketball Game and is also hosting a special event to help young adults with addictions.
The game pits a celebrity team against the North Rockland Volunteer Firefighters and takes place Friday, October 28 at North Rockland Hills High School at 7 pm. Members of the celebrity team include former Super Bowl Champions Odessa Turner, Kevin Dockery and Brandon London all of the New York Giants. Other members of the celebrity team include former Giants running backs RJ Cobbs and Billy Taylor along with Harlem Globetrotter great Derek “The Wizz” Murphy.
Melson will coach the celebrity team, and all of the proceeds will benefit Team Fight to Walk’s efforts to cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Tickets can be purchased by going tohttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/team-fight-to-walk-celebrity-basketball-game-tickets-17808173727. Tickets to an autograph signing session will be available at the event.
Two days later, Melson is volunteering his time by organizing and running a boxing clinic for the charity Big Vision at Mendez Boxing Gym in New York City. Big Vision was established as a 501c3 Non-Profit with the mission of helping young adults with addictions. Big Vision conducts constructive events for their members to participate in pretty much on a monthly basis. These positive events, surrounded by other battling addictions, helps to serve as an escape from the environment that traditionally leads to drug relapses. This past May of 2016, Melson volunteered his time and conducted a boxing workshop for Big Vision at Mendez Boxing Gym.
Last month, Melson told Eve Goldberg, founder of Big Vision, that he wants to help again by conducting another boxing clinic at Mendez for them. Helping Melson with the event will be charismatic heavyweight contender Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller, WBC Women’s Champion Alicia “The Empress” Napoleon and Jose Guzman. The clinic will host 20-30 adults between the ages of 19-30. It will be approximately three hours and include a full workout, workshop, constructive events and motivational speeches. Goldberg, whose son passed away from an overdose, will provide a heartfelt speech to conclude the event.
“I’m extremely pleased to help two causes near and dear to my heart,” said Melson, who returns to the ring November 19 and is donating his purse to help combat the heroin epidemic on Staten Island. “Raising funds and awareness is crucial for the clinical trial. The clinical trial I have fought and risked my life now for almost 6 years is on track receive its FDA approval here in the US sometime next summer. it is that close to happening here in our own country. In regard to helping human beings, especially young human beings, with their battle to overcome their addictions to drugs, I have chosen to take a highly proactive approach.”
“I came out of retirement to use my platform as a professional athlete to bring attention to the heroin epidemic in Staten Island specifically. It is not in my nature nor my character to stand by and do nothing to help fellow human beings when I believe I can help. Heroin seems to be the drug that is killing human beings at the greatest frequency, so that is where I am focusing most of my attention.”
“Staten Island is the borough that is being beaten down the greatest by heroin, and Staten Island is the only borough after Brooklyn that was part of my childhood. I had a meeting with the Staten Island DA last month to discuss bringing Big Vision to Staten Island. The DA shared that 74 people were reported as dead from heroin overdoses in Staten Island since January 1st, and I’ve joined the fight to do whatever I can do to keep former addicts clean while helping those with serious addiction overcome it. I have chosen to now put myself in harms way so that I can bring attention to this plague in Staten Island. I have chosen to literally fight for Staten Island. My family has a history of addiction and finding the cure for paralysis has been one of the most important things in my life for more than a decade.”
boxing

30th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event & Awards Ceremony Dec. 11 in New York

Leave a comment
Carl Frampton, Danny Jacobs, Joe Smith, Jr. & Shakur Stevenson among 2016 award winners
 

 
(L-R) 2016 Ring 8 International Fighter of the Year Carl Frampton
(photo courtesy of Premier Boxing Champions)
Photo gallery below
NEW YORK (October 17, 2015) – The 30th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event and Awards Ceremony will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET),December 11, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
Ring 8 has announced its 2016 award winners (see complete list below), including Hall-of-Famer Barry McGuigan (International Fighter Achievement), reigning world champions Carl Frampton (International Fighter of the Year) and Danny Jacobs (New York State Fighter of the Year),Joe Smith, Jr. (Knockout of the Year), and 2016 Olympic silver medalist Shakur Stevenson (Service to “Your Country” Award).
“Our members look forward to this event every year,” Ring 8 president Bob Duffy said.  “We have another great group of award winners. Committed celebrity guests include former world champions Mark Breland, Iran Barkley and Vito Antuofermo, as well as Vinny Maddalone, Sean Monahan, Bobby Cassidy, Harold Lederman and Frankie Galarza with others expected to attend. We truly appreciate them lending their support. Ring 8 proudly continues its record for lending a helping hand to those in the boxing community who are less fortunate. Each year our Holiday Event and Awards Ceremony celebrates our great sport of boxing, insuring much-needed funding is raised so we may continue our mission for our needy brothers and sisters in boxing. We will never waver from their corners.”
2016 RING 8 Award Winners
International Fighter Achievement:  Barry McGuigan
International Fighter of the Year:  Carl Frampton
International Promoter of the Year: Cyclone Promotions
NYS Fighter of the Year:  Danny Jacobs
NYS Female Fighter of the Year:  Sonya Lamonakis
Knockout of the Year: Joe Smith, Jr.
Uncrowned Champion: Larry Stanton
Manager of the Year: Phil Capobianco
Trainer of the Year:  Jerry Capobianco
Rising Promoter of the Year: Ronson Frank
Official of the Year:  Frank Lombardi
Amateur Official of the Year: Frankie Martinez
Amateur Boxer of the Year:  Christine Cruz
Long & Meritorious Service:  Dr. Barry Jordan
Contender of the Year: Cletus Seldin
Prospect of the Year: Julian Sosa
Sunnyside Garden:  John Clohessy
USA Olympic Boxer of the Year: Shakur Stevenson
Sam Kellerman Media:  Bobby Cassidy, Jr.
David Diamante will once again serve as the event’s Master of Ceremonies.
Tickets, priced at $125.00 per person, are available to purchase by contacting Bob Duffy by phone (516.313.2304), email DepComish@aol.com, or mail checks (payable to Ring 8) to him (164 Lindbergh Street, Massapequa Park, NY 11762). Donations of any denomination are welcome for those unable to attend the festivities.
Tickets include a complete brunch with cocktail hour upon entry, followed by seating at the awards ceremony, dinner and dessert, and top-shelf open bar throughout the afternoon. There will also be a silent auction of boxing memorabilia. This event is expected to sell-out and everybody is urged to purchase tickets as soon as possible in order to secure favorable seating.
Program ads are available for Full Page ($150.00), Half-Page ($80.00), and Quarter-Page ($50.00). The deadline for all ads is December 8 and must be emailed (DepComish@aol.com) or mailed to Duffy (516.313.2304) at the address listed above.
Go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about Ring 8 or its annual Holiday Events and Awards Ceremony.
Russo’s On The Bay is located at 162-45 Crossbay Blvd. in Howard Beach(718.843.5055).
Hall-of-Famer Barry McGuigan, president of Cyclone Promotions, Ring 8’s 2016 International Promoter of the Year,
(photo courtesy of Cyclone Promotions)
Daniel Jacobs, 2016 Ring 8 NYS Fighter of the Year
(photo courtesy of Premier Boxing Champions)
2016 Ring 8 Knockout of the Year Award: Joe Smith, Jr.
(photo courtesy of Star Boxing)
2016 Ring 8 Contender of the Year: Cletus Seldin
(photo courtesy of Star Boxing)
2016 Ring 8  USA Olympic Boxer of the Year: Shakur Stevenson
(photo courtesy of USA Boxing)
ABOUT RING 8:  Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto still remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.
Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August.  All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership.  Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.
amateur boxing, boxing, Gleason's Gym

Our Next Amateur Boxing Show is this Friday Evening Dublin vs New York

Leave a comment
Gleason’s Gym will
Close at 5:30 PM
this Friday.
We will be hosting an International amateur boxing show.
The first bout will be at 7:30 PM. Come support the gym.
Join us on, Friday evening the 7th of September and enjoy the excitement of International amateur boxing at the grass roots level.
The weigh-in for this show will begin at 5:30PM and the first bout will begin at 7:30PM.
All our bouts are sanctioned by USABoxingMetro.
The ticket price is $20 per person. Children 6 and under are not charged. All gym members and registered amateurs with their books in hand pay $15 per person.
P.S. If you can’t make it but still want to see the fights, they’ll be streaming at
Gleason’s Gym website: www.gleasonsgym.net
 
If You Want To Box
Our Next Monthly Amateur Boxing Show is Saturday October 15th.
The show is open to any currently licensed amateur boxer. We are looking for Juniors, Seniors and Master boxers.
If you want to compete, text the matchmaker, Jieun at (917) 858-3955 or email her at matchmaker@gleasonsgym.net.
Please include your name, weight, age, record and telephone number.
GOLDEN BOY
Produced by stoPD, a bi coastal non-profit for Parkinson’s disease.
October 9, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 @ Gleason’s Gym, Dumbo, NY
Doors open at 7:15 PM
This production is a fundraising event for: The Michael J. Fox Foundation and stoPD.
http://www.goldenboy16.org/
 

boxing

SWANSON COMMUNICATIONS PRESIDENT AND BUFFALO, NEW YORK NATIVE KELLY SWANSON INDUCTED INTO BUFFALO’S RING 44 BOXING HALL OF FAME ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Leave a comment
 

(Left Photo from left to right: Swanson along with Amateur Boxer of the Year Kristin McMurtree, boxing judge & inductee Dave Moretti, former heavyweight & inductee Billy Tompkins & Buffalo Veterans Boxing Association President Bob Caico; Right Photo: Swanson with her family)

 
 
BROOKLYN (September 26, 2016) – The Buffalo Veteran Boxers Association inducted Swanson Communications President Kelly Swanson into the Ring 44 Buffalo Boxing Hall of Fame on Friday, September 23 as part of its 20th class.
Swanson, along with five other new inductees, including Dave Moretti, Billy Tompkins, Dummy Burns, Stan Myka and Pete Tamalonis were honored at the organization’s annual dinner and awards ceremony at Ilio Dipaolo Restaurant in Blasdell, NY
“It is such an honor to be recognized by my hometown for my work in boxing over the last 20 years,” said Swanson, a North Buffalo-native who has worked in boxing for over two decades, representing some of the sport’s biggest names including Floyd Mayweather, Bernard Hopkins and Riddick Bowe.  “I am proud to be from the Queen City and thrilled to join an incredible class of inductees.
“Boxing is a sport of opportunity and it has opened so many doors for me. I have been privileged to with some of the best fighters and work on some of the biggest events the sport has witnessed over the course of these 20 years.  I don’t remember a time when I didn’t love boxing and I look forward to continuing to publicize and promote fighters and events for many years to come.”
“Congratulations to Kelly for her honor,” said Mayweather. “We’ve been together for a long time, more than 10 years, and I am happy she is being recognized for all of her great work.”
“There’s no woman in this game that has accomplished as much as Kelly,” said Hopkins. “She’s the top as far as publicists go and everyone knows it. I’ve been with her for 10 plus years and she always did her best and took her job seriously. She has no problem telling any fighter – from a prospect to a champion – how she feels and what she believes will make them succeed. This honor is well deserved.”
Swanson not only works in boxing, but stays involved in the sport in her off time as well. She works out at the famed Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn, blocks from her New York City office. She is also a board member for the gym’s “Give a Kid a Dream” program, which offers children from disadvantaged backgrounds a place to develop themselves physically and mentally through boxing.
“I have worked for Kelly for over eight years and I’m still learning,” said Lisa Milner Goldberg, Vice President of Swanson Communications. “I constantly find myself in awe of the ideas she dreams up, her creativity and her loyalty to her clients. She is very deserving of this recognition, especially because she is so proud of her hometown.”
mixed martial arts, MMA, WMMAA

Pan-American Championship Official Promo

Leave a comment

History will be made October 7-9 when Chile hosts the inaugural World Mixed Martial Arts Association (WMMAA) Pan-American Championship – CHILE 2016 — in Santiago.

 

Initiative on MMA as a sport will build on the well-earned reputation of previous martial arts history in terms of addressing, sharing and discussing significant developments and social advancements that will impact the future of MMA:

 

 

mixed martial arts, MMA, WMMAA

FITE TV announces television carriage deal for the WMMAA Pan-American Division Championships October 8-9 in Chile

Leave a comment
             
Go to FITE TV interview with host Jim “J.R.” Ross and
WMMAA Pan-American Division president Tomas Yu
NEW YORK, NY  (August 26, 2016) — FITE TV, in conjunction with the World MMA Association (WMMAA), announced today that it will be broadcasting the inaugural WMMAA Pan-American Division Championships live on FITE TV starting with the preliminary matches Saturday, October 8, and the final Sunday October 9, 2016.
FITE is a television network, via a downloadable app, that specializes in all things fighting, including boxing, wrestling, MMA and Martial Arts.  FITE is a free app that is available for download at the Google Play or iTunes app stores.
On Oct. 8-9, the WMMAA is bringing the top amateur MMA competitors from around the world to Santiago, Chile for a two-day competition.  More than 12 countries will be represented in eight different weight classes (6 men, 2 women classes).  Michelle Bachelet, the President of Chile, is slated to participate in the opening ceremonies and preside over the closing of the event.  In addition to the in-ring MMA competition, the weekend will feature a fitness expo and Ring Girl Latina 2016 pageant.  As of today, 12 countries have committed to participating in the event, including the United States, Mexico, Cuba, Aruba, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Colombia, Chile, Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer free viewing of one of the most anticipated MMA events in the Pan-American region each year on the innovative FITE TV app,” WMMAA Pan-American Division President Tomas Yu commented.  “Now, if you are not able to be at the event to watch the action live, you can now see it anywhere in the world.”
 “With the addition of such a prestigious event to FITE TV, we continue to increase the diversity of the combat fighting programming, now offered live and on a VOD basis on the app,” said Michael Weber, Senior Vice President of Marketing for FITE.  “It is a honor to work with MMA professionals such as Tomas Yu and his team who continue to increase the visibility of their organization worldwide.”
The television programming schedule and additional participating countries will be announced in the immediate future.
About FITE TV: FITE TV is a product of Flipps Media and is a free mobile app that is a one-stop shop for viewing all sports within the fighting discipline globally including MMA, professional wrestling, boxing, and traditional martial arts. With only access to a smartphone and a connected TV, with the FITE app, viewers can watch live events, on-demand programming, interviews and fighting sports related movies and documentaries on the big TV screen.  More information can be found at www.fite.tv.
 
About Flipps Media: Flipps delivers on-demand entertainment to any nearby connected TV from your mobile device without any additional hardware. The company has offices in San Mateo, New York and Sofia, Bulgaria and is backed by Tim Draper, Earlybird Venture Capital, Aslanoba Capital and LAUNCHub. Flipps’ patented technology immediately works with over 350+ million connected TVs and is compatible with over 7,000 manufacturer models requiring no set up, no pairing devices, no cables, no dongles and no set top box. The Flipps mobile application is free and available on iTunes and Google Play. More information can be found at www.flipps.com.
About WMMAA: The goal of the World MMA Association is to provide unbiased structure and guardrail the growth of MMA as the official world governing body for Mixed Martial Arts.  A non-profit organization founded in 2012, WMMAA is on a mission to develop a standardized and regulated organization, including competition, training, officiating, testing and growth when necessary.  More than 50 countries have been granted WMMAA membership.