Tag Archives: Puerto Rico

boxing, HBO Boxing

MIGUEL COTTO AND CANELO ALVAREZ CLOSE OUT EPIC FOUR-CITY INTERNATIONAL PRESS TOUR

Leave a comment

 

COTTO VS. CANELO WILL TAKE PLACE SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 AT MANDALAY BAY EVENTS CENTER IN LAS VEGAS
PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW®

 

Click HERE for Photos
Photo Credit: Tom Hogan Photos/Roc Nation Sports/Golden Boy Promotions

 

Click HERE for Videos

Video Credit: RingTV Live

 

BAYAMÓN, PUERTO RICO (Sept. 1, 2015) – Closing out a five-day, four-city international press tour which had already made stops in Los Angeles, Mexico City and New York City, WBC,Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs) and former Two-Time Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) hosted a press conference on Friday, Aug. 28 in front of a hometown audience in Cotto’s native Puerto Rico. Hundreds of media members and thousands of screaming fans filled Coliseo Rubén Rodríguez to see Cotto and Canelo and their teams despite the area being hit by Tropical Storm Erika the night before.

 

The press conference audience was thrilled as the fighters made their entrance to an impressive pyrotechnic display. The excitement in the crowd continued as both fighters faced off and spoke about their upcoming 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, which takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. In addition, Jose “Chepo” Reynoso, manager and trainer for Canelo Alvarez, serenaded the crowed with an a capella rendition of the favorite Puerto Rican tune “Que Bonito Puerto Rico,” in a show of respect to the fans in the audience.

 

The press conference stop in Bayamón, Puerto Rico capped a busy week for Teams Cotto and Canelo.  By the end of the week, Cotto and Canelo visited four cities in two countries, spanning four time zones, traveling 9,500 miles and encountering thousands of screaming fans in five days.  Wherever they went, fans and the media were a buzz about the anticipated showdown between Cotto and Canelo, with many making early predictions that the Nov. 21 middleweight championship will be crowned ‘Fight of the Year.’

 

Both fighters are now heading off to their respective training camps in Los Angeles at Wild Card Gym for Miguel Cotto and San Diego, Calif. for Canelo Alvarez to prepare for their epic showdown on Nov. 21.

 

Below are photo highlights from the four-city international Cotto vs. Canelo press tour. For the complete Cotto vs. Canelo press tour image gallery, click HERE.

 

 

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA ON AUG. 24:

 Macintosh HD:Users:Kristen:Desktop:CottoCaneloLAPC_Hoganphotos11.jpg

ABOVE: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (second from left) and former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (right) pose on August 24, 2015 in Los Angeles after the press conference to kick off their four-city international press tour.

 

“The world is talking about this fight. The rich history between Mexico and Puerto Rico makes this truly exciting,” Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya on Aug. 24 in Los Angeles.

 

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO ON AUG. 25:

  Macintosh HD:Users:Kristen:Desktop:Mexico City_01.jpeg

ABOVE: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (left) and former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (right) pose on August 25, 2015 in Mexico City at a press conference to announce their world title fight on November 21, 2015 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada which will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.

 

“I am very grateful that I am always welcomed here in Mexico and shown great respect. The support of Mexicans is unmatched. It is an honor to fight Miguel Cotto,” saidformer Two-Time Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez on Aug. 25 in Mexico City.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK ON AUG. 26:

 Macintosh HD:Users:Kristen:Desktop:CottoCaneloNYPC_Hoganphotos2.jpg

ABOVE: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (left) and former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (right) face off at the start of their New York City press conference to promote their upcoming HBO Pay Per View fight on Nov. 21 in Las Vegas.

 

“This is a match-up of epic proportions, can’t-miss action styles and passionate fans bases, as is evident by the crowd here today,” said Roc Nation President and Chief of Branding and Strategy Michael Yormark on Aug. 26 in New York City.

  

BAYAMÓN, PUERTO RICO ON AUG. 28:

  CottoCaneloPRPC_Hoganphotos

ABOVE: WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (center left) and former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (center right) pose on August 28, 2015 in Bayamón, Puerto Rico at a press conference to announce their November 21, 2015 world championship fight at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.

 

“I’m going to get this victory for all Puerto Ricans around the world,” said WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto on Aug. 28 in Bayamón, Puerto Rico.

 

 

With seven world titles between them, impressive resumes and high levels of popularity in their home countries, Cotto vs. Canelo is shaping up to be the biggest fight in boxing this year and the biggest fight in the history of the famed Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry. 

 

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The Cotto vs. Canelo press tour was sponsored by JetSmarter. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

 

Click HERE to access the Cotto vs. Canelo electronic press kit using password “CottovsCanelo”.

 

For more information, visit www.rocnation.com, www.goldenboypromotions.com,www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.canelopromotions.com.mx www.hbo.com/boxing andwww.mandalaybay.com; follow on Twitter at @RocNation, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @RealMiguelCotto, @Canelo, @HBOBoxing, and @MandalayBay; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation, www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/RealMiguelACotto, www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxingand www.facebook.com/MandalayBay; and follow on Instagram @rocnation, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @realmiguelacotto, @Canelo, @HBOboxing and @MandalayBay. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

boxing, HBO Boxing

MIGUEL COTTO AND CANELO ALVAREZ NEW YORK CITY PRESS CONFERENCE PHOTOS & QUOTES

Leave a comment

 

Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Gene Belvins-HoganPhotos/Roc Nation Sports/Golden Boy Promotions

 

NEW YORK CITY (August 27, 2015) – Reigning WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs) and former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) were greeted by hundreds of chanting fans as they hosted a press conference in New York City on Wednesday, August 26 as part of their international four-city press tour ahead of their highly anticipated championship showdown in November.

 

The next mega-fight in the storied Puerto Rico vs. Mexico boxing rivalry will take place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View. At the New York City press conference held at the Wyndham New Yorker Hotel, Cotto, the first native of Puerto Rico to become world champion in four different weight classes, and Mexican superstar Alvarez were joined by their promoters and trainers to discuss what promises to be this year’s most epic battle.

 

Tickets for the mega fight are on sale now and are priced at $2,000, $1,750, $1,250, $650, $350 and $150, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased at the Mandalay Bay box office, ticketmaster.com, mandalaybay.com, all Ticketmaster locations or by calling (800) 745-3000.  Ticket orders are limited to four per person.

 

Below is what their fighters and teams had to say:

 

MIGUEL COTTO: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion

 

“I have just one thing in mind and that is a victory on November 21.

 

“I’m going to get this victory for all Puerto Ricans around the world.”

 

 

CANELO ALVAREZ: Former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion

 

“The boxing world needs a fight like this. I’m planning to be well prepared to give the fans that fight.

 

“For me, it’s a big honor to fight someone like Miguel Cotto who has done it all.

 

“To make history, you have to fight and beat fighters like Miguel Cotto and I want to make history. I’m going to prepare like never before so that I can win this fight. ”

 

 

MICHAEL YORMARK: President and Chief of Branding & Strategy, Roc Nation

 

“Today we move one step closer on our journey toward an historic night.

 

“This is a match-up of epic proportions, can’t-miss action styles and passionate fans bases, as is evident by the crowd here today.”

 

 

OSCAR DE LA HOYA: Chairman and CEO, Golden Boy Promotions

 

“This is the most anticipated fight of the last few years. With this level of passion and excitement, Cotto vs. Canelo will live up to the expectations.

 

“When you have a Mexican and Puerto Rican inside the ring, you are going to get an explosion. The fans are going to get a real fight.”

 

 

FREDDIE ROACH: Hall of Fame Trainer, Seven-Time Trainer of the Year Award Winner and Trainer of Miguel Cotto

 

“I’m proud of everything Miguel has done. Don’t miss this fight. It’s going to be the biggest one of all.”

 

 

EDDY REYNOSO: Head Trainer of Canelo Alvarez:

 

“When you talk about Mexico and Puerto Rico, they have produced more than 200 champion fighters each. Miguel Cotto is a great champion and one of the greatest fighters in boxing history. Canelo is quickly headed down that road. Thank you to all the Mexican and Puerto Rican fans for your support today.”

 

 

HECTOR SOTO: Vice President, Miguel Cotto Promotions

 

“This is a great fight, the fight of the year—Mexico versus Puerto Rico. There will be no dancing, no hugging and no playing. This will be a real fight, the fight, on November 21st.”

 

 

CHEPO REYNOSO: Manager and Trainer of Canelo Alvarez

 

“There are three months until the fight. With all these fans here, you can feel the heat and the passion. It gives me goose-bumps.

 

“It’s great to see all these different people from different nations rooting for their fighters.

 

“To all my Mexican brothers, on November 21st we will be victorious and we will celebrate.”

 

 

BERNARD HOPKINS: Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner

 

“Out of all titles in boxing, the WBC is the godfather of titles to win.

 

“This is the middleweight fight. They agreed to rumble and that’s what matters. The winner of this will go on to a different level in his career and that is important for your legacy.”

 

 

MARK TAFFET: Senior Vice President, HBO Pay-Per-View

 

“Cotto vs. Canelo is that rare mega-fight that is as exciting as it is anticipated.

 

“This is truly a pay-per-view fight. It is a true fight that is worth your time and your money.”

 

 

MAURICIO SULAIMAN: President of the World Boxing Council

 

“Mexico and Puerto Rico will give us one of the greatest fights on November 21st. May the best fighter win.”

 

 

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The Cotto vs. Canelo press tour is sponsored by JetSmarter. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

 

Click HERE to access the Cotto vs. Canelo electronic press kit using password “CottovsCanelo”.

boxing, HBO Boxing

MIGUEL COTTO AND CANELO ALVAREZ LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE PHOTOS & QUOTES

Leave a comment

 

 

 

Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Gene Belvins-HoganPhotos/Roc Nation Sports/Golden Boy Promotions

 

Watch Full Press Conference Here: https://youtu.be/DZq2QJLoc3c

 

Tickets on Sale Today 10 a.m. PT!

 

LOS ANGELES (August 25, 2015) – Reigning WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion, Miguel Cotto, and former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez, launched their four-city press tour yesterday in Los Angeles, at the Hollywood and Highland Center ahead of their highly anticipated championship showdown. The fight will take place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View. At yesterday’s event, Cotto, the first native of Puerto Rico to become world champion in four different weight classes, , and Mexican Superstar Alvarez were joined by their promoters and hundreds of pumped-up, chanting fans.

 

Tickets for the mega fight will go on sale today, at 10:00 a.m. PT, it was announced onsite, and are priced at $2,000, $1,750, $1,250, $650, $350 and $150, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased at the Mandalay Bay box office, ticketmaster.com, mandalaybay.com, all Ticketmaster locations or by calling (800) 745-3000.  Ticket orders are limited to four per person.

 

Below is what their fighters and teams had to say.

 

MIGUEL COTTO: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion:

 

“I don’t really care what the critics say. I am prepared to give Canelo a fight on November 21stand that’s all that matters.

 

“I’m not here asking for any sympathy. I know who I am and I’m here to be Miguel Cotto on November 21st and give the fans a good fight.

 

“I have my eye on my career and this is the best fight for my career right now, so I’m ready to do what needs to be done to be on top.”

 

 

CANELO ALVAREZ: Former WBC & WBA Super Welterweight World Champion:

 

“I want this to be an historic fight. I’m honored to be fighting a true warrior.

 

“It’s an honor and I’m going to prepare very well because I want to win this fight.

 

“There’s a great history between Mexico and Puerto Rico and this is going to be an historic fight, another one for the storybooks.  I have a lot of pride to be fighting for my country. It’s going to be a great fight.

 

“I’m a disciplined fighter and a disciplined person and I think with that kind of drive I’ll be able to achieve a lot.

 

“I don’t like to predict knockouts, but I’m going to be ready for this fight. I will be well prepared.

 

“I’m a stronger, more mature fighter. For me, the time is right for this.”

 

 

MICHAEL YORMARK: President and Chief of Branding & Strategy, Roc Nation:

 

“This is the fight that the fans want. On November 21st we will have the ‘fight of the year.’

 

“Roc Nation and Golden Boy share a passion for creating the biggest fights in history. We want to give boxing fans what they deserve: a show of epic proportions.”

 

 

OSCAR DE LA HOYA: Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions:

 

“Boxing fans across the globe are waiting for a fight. It’s no secret that people were disappointed by May 2nd. The global fight community will be reignited by this fight.

 

“This will be one of the most exciting match ups. If I had to link this to one of my own fights, I would say that it is like my fight with [Fernando] Vargas. The same energy and passion will be evident here.

 

“Canelo doesn’t want to prove anything here. He just wants to knock Cotto out.

 

“The world is talking about this fight. The rich history between Mexico and Puerto Rico makes this truly exciting.”

 

 

FREDDIE ROACH: Hall of Fame Trainer, Seven-Time Trainer of the Year Award Winner and Trainer of Miguel Cotto:

 

“We have hard preparation ahead of us, but we will be ready and Cotto will win by knockout.”

 

 

 EDDY REYNOSO: Head Trainer of Canelo Alvarez:

 

“When you talk about history, this fight will be mentioned as one of the great fights and these two fighters will be mentioned as two of the greats.

 

“Canelo is a fighter with a lot of discipline and a lot of heart.”

 

 

HECTOR SOTO: Vice President of Miguel Cotto Promotions:

 

“It’s not a super fight anymore, it’s a super event!

 

“This is a true classic fight. Puerto Rico vs. Mexico and on November 21st, Cotto will take Canelo to school!”

 

 

CHEPO REYNOSO: Manager and Trainer of Canelo Alavrez: 

 

“Two warriors will be in the ring on November 21st and the crowd will get a war. The winner will be Mexico.”

 

MARK TAFFETT: Senior Vice President of HBO Pay-Per-View:

 

“This is a fight that we will all be talking about for years to come.”

 

 

MAURICIO SULAMAN, President of the World Boxing Council:

 

“When there is a Puerto Rican in the ring it’s guaranteed to be something exciting.It will be no different here.

 

“I believe Canelo has worked hard to get where he is. He’s very popular.  He signs autographs. He’s very good looking, but when he gets in the ring, he’s a machine.

 

“When its Mexico vs. Puerto Rico, you know the blood is going to be boiling both in the ring and in the crowd.”

 

 

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The Cotto vs. Canelo press tour is sponsored by JetSmarter. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

boxing, HBO Boxing

TICKETS FOR MIGUEL COTTO VS. CANELO ALVAREZ GO ON SALE TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 AT 10:00 AM PT

Leave a comment

 

 

 

WBC MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION MIGUEL COTTO AND

FORMER TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION CANELO ALVAREZ

SET FOR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED MEGA-FIGHT

 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 FROM

 MANDALAY BAY EVENTS CENTER IN LAS VEGAS
PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW®

 

LOS ANGELES (August 24, 2015) – Tickets for the highly anticipated showdown between WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto and former two-time Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez will go on sale tomorrow, Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 10:00 a.m. PT.

 

Tickets are priced at $2,000, $1,750, $1,250, $650, $350 and $150, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased at the Mandalay Bay box office, ticketmaster.com,mandalaybay.com, all Ticketmaster locations or by calling (800) 745-3000.  Ticket orders are limited to four per person.

 

The fight promises crowd-pleasing, high-intensity action between two powerful fighters competing in the primes of their careers, both of whom are coming off impressive, dominating performances in their most recent fights. With seven world titles between them, impressive resumes and high levels of popularity in their home countries, Cotto vs. Canelo is shaping up to be the biggest fight in boxing this year and the biggest fight in the history of the famed Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry. 

 

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The Cotto vs. Canelo press tour is sponsored by JetSmarter. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

 

Click HERE to access the Cotto vs. Canelo electronic press kit using password “CottovsCanelo”.

 

For more information, visit www.rocnation.com, www.goldenboypromotions.com,www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.canelopromotions.com.mx www.hbo.com/boxing andwww.mandalaybay.com; follow on Twitter at @RocNation, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @RealMiguelCotto, @Canelo, @HBOBoxing, and @MandalayBay; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation, www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/RealMiguelACotto, www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxingand www.facebook.com/MandalayBay; and follow on Instagram @rocnation, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @realmiguelacotto, @Canelo, @HBOboxing and @MandalayBay. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

boxing

SAVE THE DATES! MIGUEL COTTO AND CANELO ALVAREZ TO EMBARK ON FOUR-CITY INTERNATIONAL PRESS TOUR NEXT WEEK! PRESS TOUR STOPS INCLUDE LOS ANGELES, MEXICO CITY, NEW YORK CITY AND CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO PRESS CONFERENCES ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! FANS WELCOME! LOS ANGELES (Aug. 20, 2015) Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs), the reigning WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion and the first native of Puerto Rico to become world champion in four different weight classes, and Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs), the former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion, will kick off an international press tour on Monday, Aug. 24 ahead of their 12-round showdown for the WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas on Saturday, Nov. 21. Cotto vs. Canelo is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. The tour will begin in Los Angeles on Monday, Aug. 24; will continue in Mexico City on Tuesday, Aug. 25; New York City on Wednesday, Aug. 26 and conclude in Caguas, Puerto Rico on Thursday, Aug. 27. Further details regarding all tour stops will be announced soon. Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT

Leave a comment

 

PRESS TOUR STOPS INCLUDE LOS ANGELES, MEXICO CITY, NEW YORK CITY AND CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO

 

PRESS CONFERENCES ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! FANS WELCOME!

 

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 20, 2015) Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs), the reigning WBC, RingMagazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion and the first native of Puerto Rico to become world champion in four different weight classes, and Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs), the former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion, will kick off an international press tour on Monday, Aug. 24 ahead of their 12-round showdown for the WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas on Saturday, Nov. 21.

 

Cotto vs. Canelo is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

 

The tour will begin in Los Angeles on Monday, Aug. 24; will continue in Mexico City onTuesday, Aug. 25; New York City on Wednesday, Aug. 26 and conclude in Caguas, Puerto Rico on Thursday, Aug. 27.

 

Further details regarding all tour stops will be announced soon.

 

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

 

PRESS TOUR STOPS INCLUDE LOS ANGELES, MEXICO CITY, NEW YORK CITY AND CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO

 

PRESS CONFERENCES ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! FANS WELCOME!

 

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 20, 2015) Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs), the reigning WBC, RingMagazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion and the first native of Puerto Rico to become world champion in four different weight classes, and Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs), the former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion, will kick off an international press tour on Monday, Aug. 24 ahead of their 12-round showdown for the WBC andRing Magazine Middleweight World Championships at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas on Saturday, Nov. 21.

 

Cotto vs. Canelo is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

 

The tour will begin in Los Angeles on Monday, Aug. 24; will continue in Mexico City onTuesday, Aug. 25; New York City on Wednesday, Aug. 26 and conclude in Caguas, Puerto Rico on Thursday, Aug. 27.

 

Further details regarding all tour stops will be announced soon.

 

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

CARLOS VELASQUEZ SEEKS VICTORY IN FIRST WORLD TITLE BOUT

Leave a comment
Photo By Marlene Marquez
LAS VEGAS, NV (August 12, 2015) – Fighting in his first world title bout on Tuesday September 29, 2015, Puerto Rican super lightweight contender (WBA #9) , Carlos Velasquez (19-1, 12 KOs), is eager to give undefeated WBA World Champion, Javier Fortuna (28-0-1, 20 KOs), his first loss.  The PBC on FOX Sports 1 will televise the bout starting at 9PM ET Eastern Time / 6PM PT.  Ticket sales and venue for Fortuna vs. Velasquez will be announced shortly.
Velasquez, who represented Puerto Rico in the 2004 Olympics, is thriving at the opportunity to fulfill his childhood dream of becoming a world champion.  He believes he has advantages that will lead him to victory.  On the line with be Fortuna’s WBA World title.
“Ever since I was a young boy, I always pictured myself as a world champion,” said Velasquez. “Now I have a golden opportunity to accomplish that dream.  It won’t be easy.   Javier Fortuna is a very tough fighter with an undefeated record.  He’s considered one of the best fighters in the division.  Stylistically, he’s never been in the ring with a fighter like me.  When I bring home the belt, I hope I get credit for defeating a top fighter like Fortuna.”
Trained by boxing guru Roberto Norris, and guided by nutritionist/strength coach Ángel “Memo” Heredia, Velasquez feels he has the right team that can take him to the top.
“I believe I have a great coach in Roberto Norris, who understands Me.” continued Velasquez. “He’s got me working on all my strong points, bringing out the best in what I do best.  Memo is getting my body in top condition.  I feel great.  I’m going to be at my best when I step in the ring with Fortuna.”
boxing

Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Rodriguez is set to defend his WBO Latino title against Alex Rangel in Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Leave a comment
 
 
Bantamweight WBO Latino champion Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Rodriguez ( 12-0, 8 KO’s ) will be defending his title for the third time, against Mexico’s Alex Rangel ( 16-4-2, 10 KO’s ) on a scheduled 10 rounds duel, scheduled for Saturday, August, 22  at the Tomas Dones Coliseum in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
“Rangel is a good fighter that throws lots of punches, has faced good fighters and I understand that this fight will be a war. I have no doubt about it” said Emmanuel Rodriguez, who continued, “Rangel went the distance with Cesar Seda and lasted nine rounds against Alexis Santiago. In both fights, Rangel looked good in losing effort, so I have to be in excellent condition to keep the belt in Puerto Rico”.
Rodriguez, who is the first Puerto Rican boxer to grab gold at a Youth Olympic Games ( Singapore 2010 ), had on last May, the biggest win of his young career by defeating via spectacular KO in the third round, former WBA rated #11, Luis Hinojosa.
“Rangel is the kind of opponent important and necessary on Rodriguez’s development” said Juan Orengo, manager of Emmanuel Rodriguez, “We expect Rangel to be in great shape. The fight may go the distance but nothing is guaranteed because ‘Manny’ has gained a lot of power, and is knocking out his opponents with one punch”.
On October 2014, the undefeated Puerto Rican sensation, captured the WBO Latino title by knocking out Miguel ‘No Fear’ Cartagena  in the first round. Cartagena was a former two time United States National Champion, and 11 times Golden Gloves winner in Philadelphia.
Rodriguez has other notable victories by unanimous decision over world title contender, David Quijano, and former WBC FECARBOX champion, Felix Perez.
Videos – Complete fights
Rodriguez vs. Hinojosa
Rodriguez vs. Cartagena
boxing

Casimero Elects to Face Arroyo, Puts Pursuit of Ruenroeng Rematch on Hold

Leave a comment

 

Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing says his fighter, former IBF and WBO Light Flyweight Champion Johnriel “Quadro Alas” Casimero, will not pursue an immediate rematch against IBF flyweight titleholder Amnat Ruenroeng, but will instead look for a more lucrative match against Puerto Rico’s McWilliams Arroyo.

 

Calling it the “business-wise career path” for his 25-year-old fighter from Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines, Lewkowicz says the well-deserved rematch against Ruenroeng will have to be put on hold temporarily.

 

Casimero lost a highly questionable, foul-filled 12-round decision to Ruenroeng at the Hua Mark Indoor Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on June 27. The bizarre fight included the champion being warned by referee Larry Doggett five times for wrestling Casimero to the canvas before being penalized. In an abysmal refereeing performance, Doggett also gave Ruenroeng credit for a non-knockdown push and ruled a legitimate knockdown against the champion a slip.

 

“Despite the injustice done to my fighter last June, we are putting our pursuit of a Ruenroeng rematch on the back burner in favor of a better opportunity to face McWilliams Arroyo,” explained Lewkowicz. “We were offered another fight in Thailand to make up for the fiasco that occurred in the first fight, but what’s to stop it from happening a second time?”

 

Arroyo (also the victim of a questionable decision against Ruenroeng last year) and Casimero will instead face off at a soon-to-be-announced time and place later this year.

 

“The winner of Casimero and Arroyo will then look to rematch Ruenroeng on neutral ground in the United States early next year,” continued Lewkowicz. “Sometimes putting your frustration and disappointment away for a better time make more sense for the fighter’s career and this is what we are choosing in this case. John Riel will get his justice eventually and he will get a huge opportunity to face Puerto Rico’s Arroyo. Out of a bad situation will come two of his biggest victories.”
ABOUT SAMPSON BOXING

After a very successful run as a matchmaker and adviser, Sampson Lewkowicz switched over to the promotional side of professional boxing in January 2008.

Sampson Boxing has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious promotional firms, representing many of the world’s best fighters and most promising young contenders.

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America and Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, VS. and several international networks.
boxing, HBO Boxing

Photos: Miguel Cotto vs Daniel Geale & Undercard Weigh-In for their June 6, 2015 fight on HBO +

Leave a comment
WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (left) and former Two-Time World Champion Daniel Geale (right) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for June 6, 2015 world title fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn which will be televised live on HBO. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)
WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (left) and former Two-Time World Champion Daniel Geale (right) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for June 6, 2015 world title fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn which will be televised live on HBO. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)
WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (left) and former Two-Time World Champion Daniel Geale (right) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for June 6, 2015 world title fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn which will be televised live on HBO. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)
Undefeated welterweight prospect Dustin Fletcher (left) and Karim Miller (right) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for their June 6, 2015 fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)
Undefeated junior lightweight prospect Jose Lopez (left) and Angel Luna (right) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for their June 6, 2015 fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)
Undefeated light heavyweight prospect Junior Younan (left) and Mike Sawyer (right) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for their June 6, 2015 fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)
Junior featherweight prospect Shawn Simpson (left) and Damon Simon (right) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for their June 6, 2015 fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)
Former World Champion Wilfredo Vazquez (left) and Fernando Vargas (right) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for their June 6, 2015 fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)
Undefeated heavyweight prospect Zhang Zhilei (Right) and Glen Thomas (Left) pose on June 5, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York at the weigh-in for their June 6, 2015 fight at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. (PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Hogan – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports/Miguel Cotto Promotions)

6-6-15 HBO WCB Bout Sheet

boxing, Roc Nation

MIGUEL COTTO VS. DANIEL GEALE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

Leave a comment

WBC & RING MAGAZINE MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION COTTO TO FACE FORMER TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION GEALE ON JUNE 6, 2015 AT BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN LIVE ON HBO®

 

PRESENTED BY ROC NATION SPORTS + MIGUEL COTTO PROMOTIONS

 

NEW YORK (June 2, 2015) – Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions hosted the final press conference for the June 6 showdown between WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto and former Two-Time World Champion Daniel Geale on Tuesday, June 2 at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill in New York City. Along with the main event participants, undercard fighters Junior Younan and Zhang Zhilei were also in attendance. Other speakers included Michael Yormark (President & Chief of Branding and Strategy of Roc Nation), Hector Soto (Miguel Cotto Promotions), Freddie Roach (Cotto’s Trainer), Gary Shaw (Gary Shaw Productions), Graham Shaw (Geale’s Trainer), Brett Yormark (CEO of Barclays Center and the Brooklyn Nets), Peter Nelson (VP HBO Sports Programming), David Berlin (Executive Director of the New York State Athletic Commission) and Ululy Martinez (Vice Chairman of the National Puerto Rican Day Parade Board of Directors). The press conference was emceed by Brooklyn Nets Public Address Announcer David Diamante.

 

PHOTOS:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/zghog55phfcebgl/AADdHvtxcpbR-JVk2zOI54qPa?dl=0

PHOTO CREDIT: Rich Kane – Hoganphotos/Roc Nation Sports

 

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/wzeqxzlc7s79fev/AAAZBtNFUxTp3M_WOX65_pvNa?dl=0

PHOTO CREDIT: Miguel Cotto Promotions/Roc Nation Sports

 

VIDEO:

https://afcdmc.wetransfer.com/downloads/3f23a9e586626a96ca1668595cf3bd9a20150602192446/289ecc8fa6501bef51b475409c0db45d20150602192446/45c282

VIDEO CREDIT: Miguel Cotto Promotions/Roc Nation Sports

 

 

 

Here’s what press conference participants had to say:

 

Michael Yormark – President & Chief of Branding and Strategy of Roc Nation

 

“Led by our Chairman JAY Z and his partners, Roc Nation was founded to work with artists and entertainers to guide them and help them build their careers even beyond the boundaries of the music industry. It is fitting then, that today we stand in a setting named for the legendary BB King – may he rest in peace – an artist and a man that knew no boundaries during a career that transcended his art. In a few short years, Roc Nation itself has expanded beyond the world of music, diversifying in a way that many never thought possible. Today we begin to celebrate a landmark in that expansion, as another legend, World Champion Miguel Cotto, prepares to headline Roc Nation’s first major fight on Saturday night against Daniel Geale, live at Barclays Center and on HBO.”

 

“When Roc Nation founded its boxing division less than a year ago, we committed to doing things differently, and what you will see on Saturday night will be different. The eyes of the boxing world will be fixed on Barclays Center on Saturday, with celebrities and VIP’s lining the ring and a captivated audience watching at home. They will watch with anticipation, awaiting not only a masterful performance from the champion Miguel Cotto against a formidable opponent, but also an electric appearance from Roc Nation artist and hip-hop superstar Big Sean, as well as the voice of New York Angie Martinez, and a host of other surprises that will make this live boxing experience different from anything you’ve ever seen before.”

 

“Saturday is the start of something new and fresh for the boxing industry. It is a chance for all of us to show boxing fans, and sports and entertainment fans around the world, that the action on fight night can and will live up to the hype.”

 

 

Hector Soto – Miguel Cotto Promotions

 

“It has been several months of hard work and dedication. Puerto Rico will shine again on the night of June 6 when Miguel Cotto defends his titles successfully.”

 

 

Ululy Rafael Martinez – Puerto Rican Day Parade

 

“We’re really happy this year to formalize a relationship with Miguel Cotto thanks to Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions. I also want to thank Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions for contributing to our scholarship fund. They are helping us empower young high school students and college students we provide scholarships to so they can further their education. I’m encouraging everyone planning on coming to the Parade on June 14 to support our man Miguel Cotto On Saturday, June 6 at Barclays Center for the boxing match of the year.”

 

 

David Berlin – New York Athletic Commission

 

“Miguel Cotto and Daniel Geale represent the best in boxing. These are men that carry themselves with dignity both inside and outside the ring. Men who can be respectful because they don’t have to prove themselves with words. Where they prove themselves each and every time they fight is inside that ring.”

 

“Now that I am with the commission, I no longer root for fighters. I’m in a neutral role, but I do root for fights. I root for fights when fighters come into the ring and they fight hard but they leave the ring safely. I root for fights that satisfy the fans and fights where the right man has his hand raised at the end. That of course is where the New York State Athletic Commission comes in.

 

“This promises to be a competitive fight. Obviously a competitive fight means it’s a hard night for judges, but what I’m committing to the fighters and fans is that we are going to have competent, qualified and neutral officials in place and the right man is going to have his hand raised at the end of the fight. I wish both men good luck on Saturday night.”

 

 

Brett Yormark – CEO of Barclays Center and the Brooklyn Nets

 

“We’re expecting a great night on Saturday night. So, hopefully we see all of you. Tickets are still on sale. Saturday night represents our 13th night of championship boxing at Barclays Center since we opened the building 32 months ago and boxing plays a huge role in what we do in Brooklyn.”

 

 

Peter Nelson – Vice President of Programming HBO Sports Programming

 

“We look forward to two fighters who have always rose to every challenge that has been put in front of them. Daniel Geale had a lucrative opportunity at one point in time to make his HBO debut and he actually decided instead to go to Germany, to Felix Sturm’s backyard, fight him for his world titles and ended up lifting the titles away from him. He is naturally the largest opponent that Miguel Cotto has ever fought and he’s stepped up to every challenge that’s ever been put in front of him.”

 

“Miguel Cotto…the last time he stepped into the ring, he entered it an underdog and he ended up leaving it the lineal middleweight champion. He joined just a handful of fighters ever to win four world titles in four separate divisions and he was the first man from Puerto Rico ever to do so. He performed what I saw as one of the strangest punches ever in boxing when he touched a man on the temple and it caused his knee to twist into a knot. I’ve never seen that happen. It was an extraordinary performance.”

 

“We look to see in this fight, fighters who are going to give us moments of great bravery and great courage. These are the kind of men we want to have on the network. That’s what makes great fights.”

 

 

Gary Shaw – Gary Shaw Productions

 

“I have a personal problem with catch weights. We accepted the catch weight of 157 and I’m not here to complain about the catch weight. We’re going to make the weight. It’s going to be tough. I believe that if a fighter wants to fight at any weight that he wants to fight at, he has that opportunity, but he shouldn’t stop the opponent from fighting at the sanctioned weight which in this case is 160.”

 

“I believe Daniel Geale is going to win the fight. I believe that Miguel and his team made a mistake. If they were looking at the Golovkin fight, thinking that’s the Daniel that is going to come into the ring…it will not be that same Daniel Geale.”

 

“It’s truly an honor to represent Daniel Geale because he’s a different young man. The first time I met him, I flew to Germany. I looked around and I couldn’t identify Daniel Geale. Little did I know, he was standing against the back wall. After taking my seat at the dais, Daniel Geale walked up. I looked at him and I said “we’re in trouble! This kid looks like a choir boy not a fighter,” but he gave it all he got and he won the fight. He’s a family man. Doesn’t travel with an entourage. Always on time. Trains hard. Does everything that a true champion has to do.”

 

 

Daniel Geale – Former Two-Time World Champion

 

“This is a huge opportunity and I’m very excited. We’re so excited as a team that this fight is taking place. We’ve put a great training camp in for this fight and I’m feeling as good as I ever have. There’s no excuses. I’m going in as the best fighter I can possibly be. I’m hoping Miguel Cotto is the best fighter he can be as well. I want the fans to enjoy a great fight and I believe it will be a great fight. I can’t wait to walk away with another title. I’m going in very confident and I know a lot of people aren’t giving me much of a chance, but I have a huge amount of confidence in myself knowing I’ve completed a great training camp. Knowing that I have put everything that I possibly can into it and knowing that I have such a great team. I look forward to Saturday night.”

 

 

Freddie Roach – Cotto’s Trainer

 

“We’ve had a great training camp. Miguel is in great shape. Our sparring partners on our team have been great. And we’re ready for this fight. Gary’s been making a big deal about catch weights, but they have been around for a long time and he knows how to read a contract and he’s had that contract for a long time now, so I don’t think that’s an issue. We look forward to seeing you at the fight.”

 

 

Miguel Cotto – WBC & Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion

 

“I want to thank my lovely family for being here with my. My kids, my wife, my lovely mom. Thank you for always supporting my career no matter how hard it seems or looks to you. I love you.”

 

“I think that people are making a big issue where there does not need to be a big issue with catch weights. Freddie, back in 2009, made me go down from 147 to 145. Did anyone hear anything about Miguel Cotto disagreeing with the catch weights? No, I was a gentlemen the whole way. Catch weights were our main point to make this fight happen. Daniel and his team agreed to going down to 157 and I hope he can make weight on Friday. I hope to see everyone there on Saturday night.”

 

“Freddie brings the confidence back to Miguel. He comes every day no matter what he feels and gives his best to me. When you have this kind of person in front of you giving you his best and making sure that you are going to do your best, the only way you can pay him back is bringing your best too. We only talk about boxing when we are in the gym. He’s my trainer there, but as soon as we finish our training session, he’s my friend.”

 

 

Cotto vs. Geale, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, June 6 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and will be televised live on HBO. The fight, which is presented by Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions, will be the official kick-off event of the 2015 National Puerto Rican Day Parade Week and is sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, Jaybird, TapouT, Tequila Cazadores, Venue Kings and Nüe Resource. In addition to the great action inside the ring, the event will feature several notable Roc Nation touches that will further serve spectators with an enhanced fan experience, including Roc Nation and Grammy nominated artist Big Sean taking to the ring for a special performance prior to the main event. The event will be hosted by notable emcee “The Voice of New York” Angie Martinez and will also feature hit master DJ Lobo who will serve alongside Martinez throughout the night. Tickets priced at $500, $250, $200, $150, $100, $80, $50, $35 and $25, not including applicable service charges and taxes, are on sale now and available for purchase atwww.barclayscenter.com, www.ticketmaster.com and at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Doors open at 6:00 PM, the first fight begins at 6:15 PM and the HBO telecast begins at 10:30 PM ET/PT.

 

For more information please visit www.rocnation.com. Follow Roc Nation on Twitter and Instagram @rocnation and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation.

 

For more information, visit www.hbo.com/boxing, follow on Twitter and Instagram at @HBOBoxing and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing.