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Bellator, boxing, mixed martial arts, MMA, Rich Bergeron, Tom Padgett, Tony Penecale, UFC

FNU Combat Sports Show: July 13, 2017

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Mayweather and McGregor lead off tonight’s show as Tony and Rich tease Psychic Tom about not wanting to watch the August 26th “superfight.” We also recap the TUF 25 Finale and UFC 213 cards. We preview the Bellator and UFC cards coming up this weekend and all the incredible boxing action from the UK to New York.

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

KEENAN SMITH vs. IVAN BARANCHYK SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR QUADRUPLEHEADER LIVE ON SHOWTIME

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Ivan Baranchyk, left, faces off with Keenan Smith
Tomorrow/Friday, July 14 at 10 p.m. ET/PT from
Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.

“I’ll fight him in his own backyard if I have to.” – Keenan Smith

“I love knockouts, and I can’t wait to get another one tomorrow.” – Ivan Baranchyk

Click HERE To Download Weigh-In Photos; Credit Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Weights
Keenan Smith 140 – Ivan Baranchyk 140
Kenneth Sims, Jr. 139.4 – Rolando Chinea 139.6
Glenn Dezurn 121.6 – Adam Lopez 121.8
Joshua Greer 117.4 – Leroy Davila 117
NON-TELEVISED WEIGHTS
Antoine Douglas 159.6 – Juan De Angel 168.4
Charles Conwell 155.6 – Rick Graham TBA
Isiah Steen 163.4 – Travis Nero TBA
MIAMI, Okla., (July 13, 2017) – Undefeated super lightweights Keenan Smith and Ivan Baranchyk officially made weight on Thursday, one day before they headline a quadrupleheader tomorrow/Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Buffalo Run Casino & Resort in Miami, Okla.

Philadelphia’s rising prospect Smith (11-0, 5 KOs) takes on the hard-hitting Baranchyk (14-0, 10 KOs), who trains in Los Angeles and fights out of Miami. This will be Baranchyk’s fifth appearance on the ShoBox series, and his sixth consecutive fight in his adopted hometown of Miami.

“I respect all fighters, but he’s talking a little smack,” Smith said right after both fighters weighed in at exactly 140 pounds. “It doesn’t matter where we fight. I’ll fight him in his own backyard if I have to.”

Former national amateur champion Kenneth Sims Jr. (12-0, 4 KOs) will look to remain unbeaten when he meets aggressive five-year pro Roland Chinea (14-1-1, 6 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature.

Glenn Dezurn (9-0, 6 KOs) and Leroy Davila (5-1, 3 KOs) recently went the distance in a grueling eight-round super bantamweight bout that opened April 14‘s ShoBox telecast, where Dezurn earned a unanimous decision. Both fighters return in the opening two bouts of tomorrow night’s telecast. Dezurn will take on ShoBox veteran Adam Lopez (16-1-1, KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight clash, where Lopez will make his record-tying sixth ShoBox appearance. Davila will battle Joshua Greer (13-1-1, 5 KOs) in the eight-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the event promoted by GH3 Promotions and Tony Holden Productions are priced at $35, $55, $65 and $75 and are available for purchase now at buffalorun.com.

FINAL QUOTES:

KEENAN SMITH:
“I’ve been through a lot and it’s been hard, but I’ve been using it as motivation.

“I can box and I can punch. I’m not looking to go in and trade with this guy.

“I liked going away for camp for the first time. It made me focus and just kept my mind on boxing.

“I’m not worried about the hometown advantage.

“I’ve been training hard for this fight and tomorrow you’re going to see the best. We are looking to kill the beast. [Baranchyk] comes to fight, he swings a lot of wild punches. I’m a boxer and a puncher, I’m good at making fighters feel uncomfortable. It’s a blessing to be up here, and it’s a blessing to fight on ShoBox and it’s a big opportunity to move up the ladder.”

IVAN BARANCHYK:
“Training camp went great and we did eight weeks. I’m going to be shortening my punches up. I know Keenan is an American-style fighter and will be doing a lot of moving forward.

“I love knockouts and haven’t had one in my last three fights. I can’t wait to get another one tomorrow.”

“Everything is perfect in Los Angeles for me. The weather and the training are amazing.

“Everyone knows I had a great fight with Abel Ramos on ShoBox. It’s a pleasure people think that was the fight of the year, and maybe the best ever on ShoBox, but I’m just focused on the future.”

“I’m not going to talk much, I’m going to get inside the ring and do all my talking inside the ring.”

KENNETH SIMS JR.:
“I’ve had some good friends recently who have lost their lives, and it’s been emotional. I haven’t been using my head and I want to get back to boxing.

“I love punching to the body. I lot of people think I lack power, and I get hit with a lot of punches. My goal is to be a pure boxer and to keep putting my punches together. .

“I feel like I’m an exciting fighter. I’ve been fighting since I was 8 years old and I’ve put in the hard work.

“I think my jab is going to be the difference and a key in this fight. That and my footwork.

“I had a good training camp, no distractions. I was focused. I’m ready to put on a great show.”

ROLANDO CHINEA
“I’m a lot stronger than I was in my last fight. This is the best I’ve felt for any fight.

“My nine month layoff doesn’t mean anything. It doesn’t make any difference

“I’ve been stalking Kenneth for a while now and we’ve watched a lot of tape of him.

“People still don’t believe in me, and I still have a chip on my shoulder. I’ve fought some experienced guys and tough guys on the ‘A’ side. I’m ready to move from the ‘B’ side to the ‘A’ side.

“I’m going to show I’m here for good. You are going to see a new Rolando Chinea tomorrownight.

“I’m a workhorse and at times I’m my own worst critic.

“I watched a lot of boxing growing up. Felix Trinidad was my favorite.”

GLENN DEZURN:

“I know people are still talking about the eighth round of my last fight on ShoBox against Davila, and the crowd was going crazy, but I never focus on the crowd. I just focus what I have to do in the ring.

“I’m an old-school fighter and I’ll fight anyone. We can go out in the back alley and fight.

“I loved Sugar Ray Robinson and the approach he took in his fights.

“But at the end of the day a lot of old-school fighters have had to just get it done, fight by fight, to keep putting food on the table.

“I don’t see this as a big step up for me. I’m a pro now and I do everything like a professional. It’s been hard work, but that’s what it takes to become a world champion.

“I’m honored to be fighting on SHOWTIME once again. I’m an entertaining fighter and I put a lot of pressure on myself.”

ADAM LOPEZ:

“I need to mature more as a fighter. I wasn’t as prepared for my last fight as I should have been.

“I should win this fight easy. I watch the ShoBox fights I’ve been in and I’ve used different styles.

“We’ve worked on everything for this fight: quickness, defense, movement. If he wants to bang it out I’ll be ready for whatever he brings.

“I’ve busted my ass in the gym every day and I’m ready. This is where all the hard work pays off.

JOSHUA GREER

“My last knockout was a KO of the year candidate. Everyone knows I’m an exciting fighter and I’m a prospect looking to make things happen.

“The knockouts are addictive and it’s important to remember to stay humble and know who I am as a fighter. We’ll take them, but I’m not looking for the knockout.

“We’ve worked on the mistakes we’ve made in the past and corrected all the problems we’ve seen.

The pillow is only going to come out if there is some trash talking, and I know there will be. So you’ll be sure to see the ‘Night, Night’ pillow.”

LEROY DAVILA

“Last time I fought on ShoBox I did not strategize enough like I should have.

“He might bring the pillow into the ring, but it won’t make it out after the fight. He’ll be able to use it on himself.

“I’ve got to take him out of his game. I have to take away his biggest weapon, his right hand.”

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @GCPBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Antoine Douglas now to take on Juan De Angel for NABA & WBC FECARBOX  Middleweight Titles onFriday July 14th at The Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Oklahoma

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PRESS CONFERENCE & WEIGH IN TO BE STREAMED LIVE ON GH3 PROMOTIONS FACEBOOK PAGE AT 3 PM AND 5:30 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Nutley, NJ (July 13, 2017)–World ranked middleweight Antoine Douglas will now take on late-replacement  Juan De Angel.  this Friday, July 14th  in a 10-round bout that will be contested for the NABA & WBC FECARBOX Middleweight titles.
The bout will headline the non-televised portion of a ShoBox: The New Generation card, which will be televised live on SHOWTIME (10 PM ET/PT, Delayed on the West Coast) at the Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Oklahoma.
The bout will precede a televised quadruple-header that will feature Keenan Smith (11-0, 5 KOs) fighting Ivan Baranchyk 15-0, 10 KOs) in the eight-round junior welterweight main event.  In co-featured bouts, Kenneth Sims, Jr. (12-0, 4 KOs) battles Rolando Chinea (14-1-1, 6 KOs) in a junior welterweight bout, and  Glenn Dezurn (9-0, 6 KOs) takes on Adam Lopez (16-1-1, 8 KOs) in a super bantamweight fight.  The televised card will kick off with a super bantamweight fight that will pit Joshua Greer (13-1-1, 5 KOs) against LeRoy Davila (5-1, 3 KOs).
Douglas of Washington, DC has a record of 21-1-1 with 15 knockouts, and is ranked No.10 by the WBC.
Since suffering his only professional defeat, Douglas has comeback to score two consecutive knockouts, with the latest being a second round stoppage over Eduardo Mercedes on March 27.  In that bout, Douglas captured the WBC FECARBOX Middleweight title.
De Angel of Barranquilla, Colombia has a record of 20-6 with 18 knockouts.
De Angel, 30 years old is a former WBO Latino Welterweight and Middleweight champion, who has a career best victory over Jose Pinzon.
De Angel is a nine-year veteran, who has shared the ring with world champion Gilberto Ramirez as well as undefeated contenders Knat Islam and Caleb Plant.
boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UFC

TENSION ESCALATES BETWEEN FLOYD MAYWEATHER AND CONOR McGREGOR IN TORONTO ON SECOND STOP OF BLOCKBUSTER WORLD TOUR

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Capacity Crowd Of Estimated 16,000 Fans Pack Toronto’s Budweiser Stage On Wednesday As Mayweather and McGregor Meet For Just The Second Time

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Esther Lin/SHOWTIME Sports

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Edris Erba/Mayweather Promotions (Note: Images will be uploaded shortly)

 

TORONTO (July 12, 2017) – The tension between boxing legend Floyd Mayweather and UFC superstar Conor McGregor boiled over into Toronto on Wednesday as the global stars continued their blockbuster World Tour to announce their Aug. 26showdown on SHOWTIME PPV from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

 

Mayweather and McGregor met on Wednesday for just the second time, jarring toe-to-toe for more than three minutes in the initial faceoff in front of a largely pro-McGregor crowd at Toronto’s Budweiser Stage. 

 

Multi-platinum and GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist Drake made a special guest appearance in front of his hometown Toronto fans “to witness history” for an event to celebrate what he called “the biggest fight in the history of fighting.” 

 

After hearing McGregor once again promised to knock out a man that’s never been beaten, Mayweather challenged McGregor to put his money where his mouth is.

 

“If you believe in yourself like you say you believe in yourself, bet your whole fight check,” Mayweather said.

 

“One shot is all it takes,” promise McGregor.  “Check the facts – I bounce heads off the canvas.”

 

To watch Wednesday’s press conference in full, visit the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel:https://youtu.be/n7ZcGjg03-E. 

 

The Mayweather vs. McGregor World Tour continues Thursday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and concludes on Friday at Wembley Arena in London. 

 

Below are flash quotes from today’s event in Toronto:

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER:

“We’re not talking about being at the top for one year, two years, three years, four years. We’re talking about 21 years.

 

“Turn the pressure up.  I don’t quit, I don’t fold under pressure.  I’m the best and I know I’m the best.

 

“If you believe in yourself like you say you believe in yourself, bet your whole fight check.”

 

CONOR MCGREGOR:

“I thrive in uncomfortable positions.  There is nothing these guys can do to phase me. Twenty-eight years of age, I’m getting fight checks and promoter checks.  When Floyd was 28, he was on Oscar De La Hoya’s undercard and that’s just facts.

 

“Toronto, what a city. I was here one time, I was also on a world tour.  I was also facing an unconquerable quest.  I was facing the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet, Jose Aldo. They said the same things then as they’re saying now. They said I have no chance.  They said I’m in over my head.  They said [he] kicks too hard, too many weapons. The Irishman is going to fall short, he doesn’t stand a hope.  It took me 13 seconds.

 

“One shot is all it takes.  Check the facts.  I bounce heads off the canvas.

 

“He tip-tap-toes to a decision. He’s never fought a day in his life, he’s a runner.”

 

MAYWEATHER vs. MCGREGOR

Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in an unprecedented event that takes place Saturday, August 26 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  The event telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.

boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UFC

Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor Los Angeles Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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World Tour Kicks Off with Raucous Press Conference as Global Stars Discuss Saturday, August 26 Showdown on SHOWTIME PPV

From T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

 

“I am guaranteeing you this. You are going out on your face or on your back. So which way do you want to go?” – Mayweather

 

“I’m going to knock him out inside of four rounds. Mark my words,” – McGregor

 

Click HERE for Photos from Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

LOS ANGELES (July 11, 2017) – Unbeaten boxing legend Floyd “Money” Mayweather and UFC star “The Notorious” Conor McGregor went face-to-face for the first time on Tuesday, in a highly anticipated press conference in front of over 11,000 fans at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles as the two global stars discussed their Saturday, August 26 showdown at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event that will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV.

 

The fighters posed for the first face-off of the unprecedented event that has captured the imagination of sports fans around the world. Mayweather and McGregor will meet in a super welterweight contest that serves as the first time champions from boxing and MMA will meet in a sanctioned boxing match.

 

The Mayweather vs. McGregor world tour will continue on to Toronto, New York City and London as the superstars deliver all the spectacle of the summer’s biggest event directly to the fans who demanded it.

 

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

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

 

“Everyone knows I’ve never backed down from anybody. You line them up, and I knock them down like bowling pins. OnAugust 26, I’m knocking Conor out.

 

“I am guaranteeing you this. You are going out on your face or on your back. So which way do you want to go?

 

“Twenty one is the number. They ask me why is that the number? Because that’s how long I’ve been kicking ass. I don’t care about a ring or an octagon. Put me in there and I’m going to kick ass.

 

“It takes two warriors to bring an event like this together. The two biggest forces in combat sports made this happen.

 

“This was something that the fans wanted to see. I spoke to my team and said that the Mayweather-McGregor fight can be the biggest fight in history. That’s what we’re here to turn into reality.

 

“McGregor is a professional, stand-up fighter. The only loss he took was when he was on the ground. He’s a tough competitor and I’m taking him very seriously.

 

“Everyone knows I’ve been doing this for a long time. I’ve been here before. He’s a tough guy though and a warrior. The best must fight the best. The fans wanted this fight, me and McGregor wanted the fight. It’s going to be blood, sweat and tears onAugust 26.

 

“Training camp has been rough. I know deep in my heart that this is the last one. I’m taking care of my body and giving myself time off to allow my body to rejuvenate.

 

“Conor really wants to win. Extremely badly. Other fighters it usually plays out two ways. Some guys play it safe and then some like Marcos Maidana go for the kill. I think he’s the Maidana-type. He’s a heavy-hitter so I have to be cautious. It’s going to basically be a toe-to-toe battle.”

 

CONOR MCGREGOR

 

“My mind is blown. I’m absolutely honored to be here in front of you fans for this great spectacle. Somebody’s 0 has got to go.

 

“He’s got little legs and little hands. I’m going to knock him out inside of four rounds. Mark my words.

 

“I’m a young, confident, happy man. I’ve worked extremely hard for this. I’m going to embrace everything. No one can do anything to me. I’m going to have a good time.

 

“Floyd will be unconscious inside of four rounds. The power and ferociousness that I have, he’s never experienced it before. I don’t fear him.

 

“Even if he catches one of my punches with his glove, it will still hurt him. I’m like nothing he’s ever seen before.

 

“Twelve, three minute rounds is going to be a breeze for me. Not to take anything away from this sport, but I have no worries about going twelve rounds with Floyd.

 

“Floyd is the perfect motivation for me to go in and conquer the supposedly unconquerable. What more motivation could you need? This pushes me on to do these record-breaking events.”

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

 

“This is a great fight that the fans have demanded. That’s exactly what we’re going to give them on August 26.

 

“Floyd Mayweather is the undefeated, pound-for-pound king and The Best Ever. He’s here to give the fans what they wanted and that’s his huge event a memorable fight on August 26.

 

“Mayweather Promotions is all about giving the fans exactly what they want, and this battle between Floyd and Conor is going to deliver all of that and much more.

 

“This is the can’t-miss event of the summer and this crowd at STAPLES Center proves just how big it’s going to be. This whole week we’ll be bringing all the excitement of a fight week to sold out venues throughout the world.”

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

 

“Over the last several years, SHOWTIME has teamed up with MGM and Mayweather Promotions to give fans the biggest and most exciting events in sports. Record-breaking event after record breaking event. We also have a long history of MMA in SHOWTIME and are glad to be in business with UFC and Conor McGregor.

 

“We will be working to deliver this event to the fans in unprecedented ways. We will give you new ways to experience the preparation leading up to the fight and then fight night, like never before. We’ll bring you behind the scenes and up close and personal with the “All Access” series. Your backstage pass to this fight premieres on July 28 on SHOWTIME.

 

“They said this fight could never be made, they said this fight would never happen, but this fight is no surprise. 10 years ago Floyd decided to leave his promoter and become his own boss. He became his own boss and broke PPV record after PPV record. Here we are, 49-0, he’s fought 24 world champions, and never lost. Floyd Mayweather has generated 20 million PPV buys and 1.3 billion dollars in PPVs. He is by far the number one attraction in sports and entertainment. There is no one else who is even close.

 

“Am I surprised that this fight is happening? Especially against someone younger, bigger and stronger than he is. Not at all. This is Floyd’s plan. To put on the most exciting and spectacular events that the sports world has ever seen. That’s whatAugust 26 will be. That’s been the plan all along. ”

 

DANA WHITE, President of UFC

 

“This is the biggest fight any of us have ever been a part of. People have just rallied behind this fight. Don’t judge a fight until the fight is over. You never know what’s going to happen, especially with a guy like Conor who hits like a truck. When he hurts someone, he puts them away.

 

“This is a completely full event today, not a seat left. We had to move to a bigger venue in Toronto. Barclays Center sold out and then today tickets sold out at Wembley in 10 minutes. There’s never been anything like this.

 

“Floyd is almost 41 years old. Conor is a young southpaw who hits hard. We’ll see how it plays out. It’s crazy to think that Conor won’t connect with him.

 

“Conor McGregor believes in himself like nobody I’ve ever seen before. What he thinks about, he manifests into reality. The boxing media will get to know Conor on this tour and see the mental warfare that he engages in. Then on fight night, Conor is going to try to knock Floyd out.”

 

RICHARD STURM, President of Sports and Entertainment, MGM Resorts International

 

“Thank you to all the great fight fans around the globe watching this event. We’re thrilled that this event will be held at T-Mobile Arena, the home of the biggest events in the sports and entertainment industry. In only 15 months the T-Mobile Arena has become an industry leader and home to many of the greatest entertainers and athletes in the world.

 

“Las Vegas and the T-Mobile Arena will be the center of the sports universe for this great spectacle when two great champions bring these two sports together for the first time. It’s going to be an absolutely electric weekend. We look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience to all the fans who travel from around the world to this great event.”

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and www.mgmgrand.com, follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @TheNotoriousMMA, @MayweatherPromo, @UFC, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.Facebook.com/SHOSportsandwww.Facebook.com/UFC

boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UFC

FLOYD MAYWEATHER TO MEET CONOR McGREGOR IN UNPRECEDENTED BOXING EVENT

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Saturday, August 26 Live on SHOWTIME PPV®
From T-MOBILE ARENA in Las Vegas
 
LAS VEGAS (July 11, 2017) – A worldwide audience will witness a one-of-a-kind sporting event when legendary boxer and pound-for-pound king Floyd “Money” Mayweather returns to the ring to battle all-time MMA great and UFC champion “The Notorious” Conor McGregor in a 12-round boxing match. The fight announcement on June 14 captured the world’s attention as fans across the globe anticipate the outcome of this once-in-a-lifetime showdown taking place Saturday, Aug. 26 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  The event will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and promoted by Mayweather Promotions.
A 12-time world champion in five weight classes, the 40-year-old Mayweather retired undefeated in September 2015 as one of the greatest to ever step in the ring, buoyed by box office success that saw him shatter nearly all of the revenue records in the sport’s history. Now, he returns to challenge the bold, powerful and popular McGregor, whose elite striking skills put him in the record books as the first athlete to hold two UFC titles simultaneously, all while soaring to the mantle of the sport’s No. 1 PPV attraction at only 28 years old.
Mayweather and McGregor will meet in a super welterweight contest (154-pound limit), serving as the first time champions from boxing and MMA will meet in a sanctioned boxing match.
“There was only one name that could bring me out of retirement and that’s Conor McGregor,” said Mayweather. “I’m excited to give the fans what they’ve all been asking for. I always want to do something different and groundbreaking and this fight with Conor is that perfect opportunity. He’s a young, skilled and powerful guy who I’m not going to take for granted. I expect to come out victorious, but anything can happen in the ring. This is a must-see event live or on pay-per-view on August 26. The whole world will be watching Mayweather vs. McGregor.”
“This is a historic fight and will be the greatest spectacle in combat sports history,” said McGregor. “I am about to change the entire approach to fighting as it stands today. OnAugust 26 I will shock the world. Again.”
The SHOWTIME PPV on-air team will call the action on the telecast beginning live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.  The telecast also will be available in Spanish using secondary audio programming (SAP).
Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions, said, “Floyd has been a trailblazer his whole career and this event proves that he is still the marquee name in the fight game. This is the kind of event that Floyd Mayweather and Mayweather Promotions are known for and we’re proud to bring this exciting night of action right to the fans. We know that Conor McGregor is a dangerous fighter who believes 100 percent that he is going to win this fight. I’m expecting to see as sharp a Floyd as always and I anticipate him doing what he always does, going in there and winning. You will not want to miss this once-in-a-generation showdown on August 26 in Las Vegas and live on SHOWTIME PPV.”
Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports, said, “We are proud to reunite with Floyd Mayweather, Mayweather Promotions and the MGM Grand to deliver this unprecedented global event. Never before, in the vast experience of SHOWTIME PPV which includes worldwide events featuring record-setting events with Mike Tyson, Julio Cesar Chavez and Floyd Mayweather, have we experienced a reaction like we have to Mayweather vs. McGregor.  Both Floyd and Conor are trend-setting personalities who have transcended their respective sports.  They carry unmatched reputations for spectacle and athleticism, and together they create a truly can’t-miss event.”
Dana White, President of UFC said, “My goal has always been to put on the greatest fights the world has ever seen, whether they take place inside an Octagon or a boxing ring. Floyd Mayweather is one of the best fighters of all-time but he has never faced someone like Conor McGregor. Throughout his UFC career, Conor has proven that he should never be underestimated and I believe this will be no different. On August 26th, we will see the biggest fight in history. The world will be watching to see if Conor can follow through on another promise and make history once more. No matter the outcome, this will be a historic night in sports and we are honored to give the fans what they have been asking for.”
Richard Sturm, president of entertainment and sports for MGM Resorts International, said, “It is an honor to have the opportunity to host the Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor fight at T-Mobile Arena, our industry’s leading venue for major sports and entertainment. Las Vegas is known for its summer heat but nothing will be hotter than this championship event on August 26.”
One of the most decorated fighters in the history of the sport, Mayweather, of Grand Rapids, Mich., and fighting out of Las Vegas, used his trademark speed, defensive prowess and ring generalship on his way to 24 triumphs over world champions during his illustrious career.  Among those 24 victories are the biggest names in the sport, past and present, including Manny Pacquiao, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Canelo Alvarez, Shane Mosley, Juan Manuel Marquez, Zab Judah and Arturo Gatti.
In addition to his in-ring accomplishments, Forbes, Fortune and Sports Illustrated have all named Mayweather the world’s highest paid athlete multiple times. His events amass record-breaking numbers; he has headlined four of the six highest-grossing pay-per-view events of all-time and holds the all-time record in gross pay-per-view receipts.  His 2015 showdown with Pacquaio shattered the all-time pay-per-view television record with 4.6 million buys while the event grossed a staggering total of more than $600 million.
Mayweather, the only fighter to have headlined three events that each generated more than 2 million pay-per-view buys, has garnered numerous “Fighter of the Year” awards over his storied career, including five ESPY Awards and two Boxing Writers Association of America awards.
Representing his hometown of Dublin, Ireland, McGregor’s larger than life personality and devastating power have helped him become his sport’s No. 1 attraction. He became the first MMA fighter to crack Forbes highest-paid athlete list in 2016 and was even higher on the list in 2017.
He became the undisputed UFC featherweight world champion by delivering pinpoint left handed shots that quickly ended the nights of top fighters Jose Aldo and Chad Mendes. McGregor then moved up in weight for a pair of blockbuster matchups with Nate Diaz that saw him set a new mark for UFC pay-per-view buys when he defeated Diaz in the rematch last August.
After dispatching Diaz, McGregor set his sights on history as he headlined at Madison Square Garden against lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez. McGregor put on a striking clinic against Alvarez knocking him down five times before getting the second round knockout and adding the lightweight title to his featherweight world title, becoming the first UFC fighter to ever hold two belts concurrently.
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About Mayweather Promotions
Appropriately based in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Mayweather Promotions was established in 2007 by former 12-time world champion and undefeated boxing icon, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. Mayweather Promotions seamlessly promotes all forms of live entertainment and has blazed its own trail to unprecedented financial success; netting in excess of $350 million while generating over $1 billion in Pay-Per-View revenues.
A well-respected organization in sports & entertainment, the company has successfully garnered attention through producing some of the largest boxing events that the sport has witnessed over the past decade. What started with one fighter has grown to 30 plus active professional boxers that include current and former world champions, Olympians, and top up and coming prospects.
Coming off the success of four consecutive sellout shows with much more to come, 2017 has proven to be a cutting-edge year for Mayweather Promotions. Mayweather Promotions seeks to maintain their global platform as they embark upon new endeavors for fans all over the world. For more information, visit Mayweatherpromotions.com and follow Mayweather Promotions on Facebook at: facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, Twitter & Snapchat: @MayweatherPromo and Instagram: @MayweatherPromotions.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Adam Lopez and LeRoy Davila looking to rebound this Friday as part of ShoBox: The New Generation Quadrupleheader

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Live on SHOWTIME, Friday, July 14, 10 p.m. ET/PT
From Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW YORK (July 11, 2017) – This Friday night two members of the GH3 Promotions stable are looking to get back in the win column in highly anticipated bouts as part of a quadrupleheader on ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, July 14 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.
Adam Lopez (16-1-1, 10 KO’s) of San Antonio, Texas will take on undefeated Glenn Dezurn (9-0, 6 KOs) of Baltimore in a super bantamweight bout.  Leroy Davila (5-1, 3 KOs) of New Brunswick, N.J., will take on Joshua Greer (13-1-1, 5 KOs) of Chicago in a bantamweight bout scheduled for eight rounds.
The ShoBox telecast features eight returning fighters with a combined record of 94 wins against just four losses.
In the main event, dangerous southpaw Keenan “Killa” Smith, (11-0, 5 KOs), of Philadelphia will make his second appearance on the series as he takes on Ivan Baranchyk, (14-0, 10 KOs), a native of Minsk, Belarus, fighting out of Miami, Okla., who is making his fifth appearance on the ShoBox series.
In the co-feature, undefeated junior welterweight Kenneth Sims, Jr. (12-0, 4 KO’s) of Chicago will take on Rolando Chinea (14-1-1, 6 KOs) of Lancaster, Pa. in a bout scheduled for eight rounds.
Tickets for the event promoted by GH3 Promotions and Tony Holden Productions are priced at $35, $55, $65 and $75 and are available for purchase now at buffalorun.com.
Sims, a 2013 U.S. National Amateur Champion and a 2012 Olympic Trials semifinalist, continues to step up in level of opposition as he meets one of the most dangerous opponents of his career in his second ShoBox appearance.
Lopez of San Antonio, Texas will be making his sixth appearance on ShoBox.  The 26-year-old was on the cusp of title shot before being stopped by Daniel Roman on Jan. 20th in Atlantic City.  Lopez has not lost confidence as he is approaching this big fight against the undefeated Dezurn.  Lopez also has a new focus as he moved his training camp from Texas to New Jersey.
“This was a tremendous camp in New Jersey.  I learned a lot of new stuff, and now I am ready for the fight,” said Lopez.
“I needed a change of scenery, and needed to get out of Texas.”
He knows he is in with a solid fighter in Dezurn, and is prepared for a hard fight.
“Dezurn is a good fighter.  He throws a lot of punches, and I am ready for whatever he brings.”
Lopez cites many factors on why he believes his hand will be raised in victory.
“My experience speaks for itself.  I am a real 122 pound fighter, and a win should be get me close to knocking of a door of a title shot.”
Davila, 29 years-old will be making his second ShoBox appearance in just his seventh professional fight.
He is coming off a tough eight-round unanimous decision defeat to Dezurn on April 14 in Oxon Hill, Maryland.
The 2016 U.S. Olympic Alternate is ready for the streaking Greer.
“I had a full camp, and it went great.  I am just waiting for the last few days, and I am ready for whatever he will bring.”
Despite Greer being on a ten-fight winning streak, Davila is not fazed by Greer.
“Greer is coming to win just like anyone else that I fight. The fact that I have already gone through this once, being on ShoBox, I am much more comfortable and I will have a great performance on Friday.”
Said GH3 Promotions, Vito Mielnicki, “Adam and Leroy are very hungry.  After their last bouts I think they learned a lot.  I have seen the great camps that they have had in New Jersey, and I expect them to have great performances on Friday night.”
# # #
Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 69 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Errol Spence Jr. and more.
boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UFC

SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO CHRONICLE FLOYD MAYWEATHER vs. CONOR McGREGOR EVENT WITH WEEKLY INSTALLMENTS OF EMMY® AWARD-WINNING SERIES ALL ACCESS

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ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. McGregor Premieres Friday, July 28 At 10 PM ET/PT On SHOWTIME®   

 

NEW YORK (July 11, 2017) – SHOWTIME Sports will chronicle the buildup to the fight the sporting world awaits with weekly installments of the Emmy Award-winning series ALL ACCESS, peeling back the curtain on the August 26 blockbuster bout between boxing legend Floyd Mayweather and UFC superstar Conor McGregor.  

 

Weekly episodes of ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. McGregor will premiere every Friday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIMEon-air, on demand and over the internet beginning July 28 and concluding on Aug. 18.  Four revealing installments will immerse fans into the lives and training camps of the outspoken, charismatic champions Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor, documenting their preparation for an unprecedented fight that has captured the world’s attention. 

 

Winner of multiple Emmy Awards, ALL ACCESS takes viewers behind the scenes of boxing’s biggest events.  The SHOWTIME Sports original franchise surrounds the world’s most compelling fighters with intimate access and signature storytelling.

 

Immersive filming on the series began last week in Las Vegas and Dublin, Ireland, as the premier combatants prepare to break camp and embark on a whirlwind four-city, three-country press tour that delivers the theater of the event directly to fans worldwide.  From their eagerly anticipated initial faceoff in Los Angeles to the final public appearance in London, Episode 1 will give viewers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the grandeur that is Mayweather vs. McGregor. 

 

Subsequent installments of ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. McGregor will take viewers inside the private lives of these world-renowned figures, examine the origins of their heated rivalry and document the unrelenting intensity of training camp as Mayweather and McGregor prepare to meet in a one-of-a-kind main event match.

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Undefeated Kenneth Sims, Jr. ready for complete performance this Friday night as part of ShoBox: The New Generation Quadrupleheader

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Live on SHOWTIME, Friday, July 14, 10 p.m. ET/PT
From Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW YORK (July 10, 2017) – Undefeated super lightweight Kenneth Sims, Jr. (12-0, 4 KO’s) is looking for a complete performance when he takes on Rolando Chinea (14-1-1, 6 KO’s) of Lancaster, Pa., as the two prepare to meet in an eight-round bout on ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, July 14 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.
The ShoBox telecast features eight returning fighters with a combined record of 94 wins against just four losses.
Dangerous southpaw Keenan “Killa” Smith, (11-0, 5 KOs), of Philadelphia will make his second appearance on the series as he takes on Ivan Baranchyk, (14-0, 10 KOs), a native of Minsk, Byelorussia fighting out of Miami, Okla., who is making his fifth appearance on the ShoBox series.
Plus, undefeated Glenn Dezurn (9-0, 6 KOs) will take on Adam Lopez (16-1-1, KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight clash. In the telecast opener, Joshua Greer (13-1-1, 5 KOs) will battle Leroy Davila (5-1, 3 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.
Tickets for the event promoted by GH3 Promotions and Tony Holden Productions are priced at $35, $55, $65 and $75 and are available for purchase now at buffalorun.com.
Sims, a 2013 U.S. National Amateur Champion and a 2012 Olympic Trials semifinalist, continues to step up in level of opposition as he meets one of the most dangerous opponents of his career in his second ShoBox appearance.
The Chicago native has stayed active as a pro; he fought four times in 2016 and this will be his third start of 2017. In his last outing, he stopped Israel Villela with a third-round TKO.
The 23-year-old Sims was a sparring partner for Floyd Mayweather (when he was getting prepared for Andre Berto) and Manny Pacquiao (as he was getting ready for Mayweather). He is known for his boxing skills and ability to work the body.
“My camp has been great,” Sims said. “I feel like I am a lot mentally stronger going into this bout then I was for my last ShoBox fight. I was going through a lot and that was documented. “
Sims was mourning the loss of close friend and undefeated welterweight, Ed Brown.
“This fight on Friday will be a case of me just going out there and doing what I need to do.  I am just going to go out there to box and use my physical attributes, and make this fight easy.”
Sims will be looking to improve on his ShoBox performance when he took a unanimous decision from Emmanuel Robles on Jan 20.
“I think that fight helped me a lot going into this fight. It taught me that I can go eight hard rounds. I want to stay ready, and I plan on getting started earlier in the fight. I am going out there to have fun. That is when I am at my best.
“I will show everyone a big difference on Friday night. I have been working very hard, and I will be in better shape, and overall the fans will see a better Kenneth Sims.”
Said Sims promoter, Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions, “Kenneth has all of the talent in the world, and on Friday I feel he will show it. He has a clear head going into this fight and is extremely focused. Chinea is a very solid opponent, and I feel that will bring the best out of Kenneth on Friday night.”
# # #
Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 69 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Errol Spence Jr. and more.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Undefeated Keenan Smith Confident and Ready To Face Fellow Unbeaten Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk In Main Event Of ShoBox: The New Generation Quadrupleheader

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Live on SHOWTIME, Friday, July 14, 10 p.m. ET/PT
From Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.
“I Will Kill the Beast” – Keenan Smith
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW YORK (July 7, 2017) – Undefeated super lightweight Keenan Smith is ready and confident for his upcoming bout with Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk as the two prepare to meet in an eight-round main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, July 14 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.
The ShoBox telecast features eight returning fighters with a combined record of 94 wins against just four losses.
Dangerous southpaw “Killa” Smith, (11-0, 5 KOs), of Philadelphia will make his second appearance on the series as he takes on Baranchyk, (14-0, 10 KOs), a native of Minsk, Byelorussia fighting out of Miami, Okla., who is making his fifth appearance on the ShoBox series.
In the co-feature, former national amateur champion Kenneth Sims Jr. (12-0, 4 KOs) will look to keep his record unblemished as he meets Rolando Chinea (14-1-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight scrap. Plus, undefeated Glenn Dezurn (9-0, 6 KOs) will take on Adam Lopez (16-1-1, KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight clash. In the telecast opener, Joshua Greer (13-1-1, 5 KOs) will battle Leroy Davila (5-1, 3 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.
Tickets for the event promoted by GH3 Promotions and Tony Holden Productions are priced at $35, $55, $65 and $75 and are available for purchase now at buffalorun.com.
Smith, the 2008 National Golden Gloves Champion and 2007 Junior Olympic National Champion, debuted on ShoBox in November of 2015, scoring a hard-fought unanimous decision over Benjamin Whitaker. The 5-foot-7, 26-year-old, will make his third start of the year after taking 2016 off to recover from and ACL injury and the loss of both of his parents within six months of each other. Smith has knocked out both of his opponents this year, Marquis Hawthorne and Edgar Gabejan.
Smith set up training camp in Southern Jersey, and has prepared for this bout with complete focus, and is ready to become a player in the junior welterweight division.
“Camp has been good, and I had a lot of top-notch sparring,” said Smith. “I have been doing a lot of strength and conditioning. This has been a wonderful camp, and on July 14th, the fans will see the best Keenan Smith.”
He continued: “My confidence is at 100%. I will beat him, and I am looking to kill The Beast.”
With a win over Baranchyk, Smith feels he can become an immediate contender at junior welterweight.
“The fight will open doors for me and get me bigger and better opportunities.”
Smith’s promoter Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions is fully behind his fighter and believes a breakout performance is in store for July 14.
“This will be Keenan’s chance to show what we already know: That he is a vastly talented fighter who has the goods to go a long way in this sport,” Mielnicki said. “He has the pedigree and now this is the stage where he becomes a real commodity in boxing. We are looking for a shining performance on July 14.”
Smith is trained by his brother Lemar Smith, and is managed by Doc Nowicki and David Price.
# # #
Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.