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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

NONITO DONAIRE MAKES HISTORY, CAPTURES WBC BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH FOURTH-ROUND KNOCKOUT

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Subriel Matias and Gary Antuanne Russell Notch

Big Knockout Wins

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Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions

CARSON, CALIF. (May 29, 2021) – Nonito Donaire is champion once again. Fourteen years after he won his first world title, the “Filipino Flash” cemented his Hall of Fame credentials with a sensational fourth-round KO win over Nordine Oubaali to capture the WBC World Bantamweight title Saturday night in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“The king has returned,” Donaire beamed afterward. “I just love the crowds. All my friends, family, all the boxing fans that came out thank you so much. You guys are wonderful.”

The 38-year-old Donaire (41-6, 27 KOs) is now the oldest world champion ever at 118-pounds. He accomplished it with the left hand that has been the calling card of his career as he dropped Oubaali (17-1, 12 KOs) three times in total.

“Being at this age is not the question, it’s about my performance,” said Donaire. “About my ability to grow. I believe it matters not what your age is, but how mentally strong you are. What I learned from the [Naoya] Inoue fight is that I’m back. I can still compete at this level. The whole time I was not fighting, I was learning. I’m ready for the next one.”

Following a feel-out first round, Donaire went to work in the second, walking Oubaali down and countering with thudding effect. Donaire scored the first knockdown early in the third, dropping Oubaali with his trademark counter left hook. The Frenchman rose on unsteady legs and Donaire pounced, landing more big shots until another left hook floored Oubaali just a split second before the round ended. Again, Oubaali struggled to his feet, dazed yet willing to fight on.

The end came swiftly in the fourth. Donaire expertly maneuvered Oubaali around the ring, pinning him against the ropes where a left uppercut sent Oubaali crumpling to the canvas for a third and final time. Referee Jack Reiss immediately called it off. The official time of the stoppage was 1:52 of the fourth round.

“Three decades of being world champion. Nine-time world champion. That’s amazing,” said Donaire. “I came in here and I felt really good. Today I knew exactly what was going to happen. I knew exactly what I was going to do. I think I was just very focused in the gym. I was very, very focused. I just felt really good coming in and I was grateful to get this opportunity.

“Tonight was something that I had to prove to the world that I’m back and I’m stronger than ever. He was a very tough guy. I think ultimately for me, there was a level of should I be more patient? Or should I go for it? Something I learned in the Inoue fight was to go for the kill. And that’s exactly what I did. I was patient, but I knew he was hurt enough that I could take him out.”

In the co-feature, Puerto Rico’s Subriel Matias (17-1, 17 KOs) delivered another power-punching display, breaking down previously-unbeaten Batyr Jukembayev (18-1, 14 KOs) until Jukembayev’s corner stopped the bout after eight riveting rounds. 

“I think this is what everybody expected. Everybody knew it was going to be a great war,” said Matias. “This was going to end by knockout whether I was going to get knocked out or Jukembayev was going to get knocked out. I’m just glad it was me who knocked him out.”

Matias establishes himself as one of the best in a stacked division, but this latest win wasn’t easy. Kazakhstan’s Jukembayev came out strong, landing a right hook-right uppercut combination upstairs from his southpaw stance that got Matias’ attention in the first.

Jukembayev pushed the pace in the second. Matias began letting his hands go in the third, throwing in combination to the head and body. Both combatants were now fully warmed up, setting the stage for a fourth round that could be a candidate for “Round of the Year.”


It began when a hard left hook staggered Jukembayev and drove him to the canvas. Matias sought to close the show but Jukembayev held on, cleared his head and started landing his own shots. With a minute left in the stanza, Jukembayev stunned Matias with a left cross. Instead of clinching, Matias fought fire with fire, bringing the crowd out of their seats with toe-to-toe action until the bell sounded.

Matias never stopped coming forward. Following a one-sided sixth, Jukembayev returned to his corner with both eyes swelling shut. The back and forth ensued in the seventh as Jukembayev buzzed Matias with two right hooks toward the end of the round.

Matias returned to the driver’s seat in the eighth round, pounding away at Jukembayev with both fists. In total, he out-landed Jukembayev by 100 punches (234/608 to 134 /409) and was more accurate (38.5% to 32.8%). The accumulation of blows was enough to convince Jukembayev’s corner to request the bout be stopped.

“He knew he had nothing to lose. He came in and was doing everything strong,” said Matias. “He knew that all he could do was knock me out to win. I would have done the same thing. That’s a warrior’s heart and he has all my respect.

“After that fourth round, I mean he is a very competitive fighter, so it turned into a war after that point. My hands go up to him as well. It was a great fight. I definitely have had other opponents that were very good, but this is the one that has given me the hardest test.”

In the telecast opener, Gary Antuanne Russell (14-0, 14 KOs) continued his ascent up the super lightweight ranks. The undefeated Russell became the first to stop the ruggedJovanie Santiago (14-2-1, 10 KOs), dominating Santiago until referee Sharon Sands halted the contest following the sixth round at the suggestion of Santiago’s corner.

“The objective is to get the man out as soon as possible and come out unscathed,” said Russell. “I just want to say that Santiago was a class-A opponent. A lot of people think he beat Adrien Broner. I want Adrien Broner now.”

With older brother and WBC World Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. working his corner, Gary Antuanne controlled the action from the opening bell. The 2016 Olympian worked the jab and straight left behind the southpaw stance, snapping Santiago’s head back several times in the first.

Russell, 24, continued to land the left in the second and third. Early in the fourth, he followed up a straight left to the ribs with a short right hook upstairs that dropped Santiago to a knee. Puerto Rico’s Santiago gamely rose to his feet and survived the follow-up onslaught to make it out of the round.

“The importance to me is to execute round-by-round, and round-by-round, I was executing more and more. My father told me to go to the body, right hook upstairs. He was open to that,” said Russell.

Russell showed no signs of slowing despite being extended beyond four rounds for the first time in his pro career. The Capital Heights, Md. product battered Santiago in the sixth, landing punishing combinations throughout the frame. Moments later, the bout was stopped.

“It’s definitely important to me to perform so I’m not just known as Gary Russell’s younger brother,” said Russell, who landed 146 of 444 punches (32.9%). “I come from an excellent background of fighters. We’re building a dynasty.

“How soon do I want to get back in the ring? If I could fight on the Deontay Wilder card, that would be great.”

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will replay Sunday, May 30 at 9 a.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and Monday, May 31 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handled blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer was David Dinkins, Jr., the Producer was Ray Smaltz and the Director was Chuck McKean. Three-time super bantamweight world champion Israel Vazquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna served as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

NORDINE OUBAALI VS. NONITO DONAIRE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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WBC Bantamweight World Champion Oubaali Takes On Future Hall Of Famer Donaire This Saturday, May 29 Live On SHOWTIME® In A Premier Boxing Champions Event From
Dignity Health Sports Park In Carson, Calif.
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions
 
CARSON, CALIF. (May 27, 2021) – WBC Bantamweight World Champion Nordine Oubaali and future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their world title showdown taking place this Saturday, May 29 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
 
The press conference also featured hard-hitting contender Subriel Matias and unbeaten Batyr Jukembayev, who meet in the co-main event for a 12-round IBF Junior Welterweight Title Eliminator, and unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell and Jovanie Santiago, who square off in a 10-round super lightweight clash that opens the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
 
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
 
NORDINE OUBAALI
 
“Yes, we’ve sparred but training is training. When you go into a fight, it’s not the same. Every fight is different and I know on Saturday I will put on a great show with Nonito Donaire because I know he’s a good boxer but I know I’m the best. I trained so hard for this and now I’m ready to fight. I want to show everybody that the best two bantamweights in boxing today are fighting on Saturday.
 
“Yes, he’s had an outstanding career and he has power but I believe I have more power than him. I know I have the power. He’s a good boxer but I’m the world champion and on Saturday I’m going to show the world who is the best. I know I am the best. I respect Nonito. He’s had a good career but I’m the best in the division.
 
“The difference in the fight is going to be I want to win more. I want to continue to make history and stay as the world champion in this division. I know that it’s my time. I want this more than he does.
 
“If I’m victorious, why not have my next fight be for the unification? I want to make history every time and this is my motivation. I’m here because I love boxing and I want to face the best boxers every time. I’m facing Nonito Donaire and that’s great for my career. I just like to fight and this is my life.”
 
NONITO DONAIRE
 
“It would be great to win the title at 38 years old and become the oldest champion at 118 pounds, but let’s keep it going. Let’s make it 40. Let’s make it 42. There ain’t no stopping me. Mentally, I’m very grateful but at the same time I’m just very ready.
 
“I’m always healthy and the reason why I can compete with anybody is because I keep myself healthy and I work hard. There’s nothing less than 100 percent every time I’m in that gym.
 
“I’m very hard-headed so I don’t always do what people tell me to do. People can say that it’s their time. But I also have my time and I’m always going to be the one who concedes their time or makes that decision. It’s still my time.
 
“It’s going to be a great fight. Oubaali is the champion for a reason. He’s been through it in terms of the amateurs and making it here. So we’re not underestimating any of that. But I’ve fought in this venue many times and I always make magical fights in the first place. It’s always going to be magical with me. I’m a unicorn.
 
“The difference in this fight is going to be my hunger. He’s younger than me but I have the hunger. We both have an objective and that’s what’s going to make this a great fight.
 
“I want to fight the best out there. I want the rematch with Naoya Inoue and I want to get all the belts. The only thing I haven’t accomplished in boxing is becoming undisputed champion. I’ve done everything else. Fighter of the Year. Knockout of the Year. Multiple championships. Four-division champion. You name it. That’s my main goal. Get the belt and put them all together.
 
“Bantamweight is my real weight. I’ve always fought in the heavier division because of the excitement, the challenge and the lucrative offer or the names at that time. Now, I’m here where I belong and this is where I’m really strong.
 
“The layoff will not be a factor at all. The time off helped me out. Just being out of the ring helped my body recover. And the eagerness and the hunger is there more than ever. It was a blessing for me.”
 
SUBRIEL MATIAS
 
“I will be his toughest test without question and come Saturday night, everybody will find out why I’m saying that.
 
“I believe him when he says that he has the tools to get a stoppage on Saturday. But it’s not just a matter of saying, on Saturday night he has to prove it. If it’s going to come out of your mouth, then you have to prove it.
 
“We’re both knockout artists and with what we’re looking at, this fight should not finish by a decision.
 
“I don’t have much to say about that fight against Petros Ananyan. Those that saw me lose, I lost. There’s nothing I can say about it. But those that know boxing know that I’ve been progressing and improving and you all will see that on Saturday.”
 
BATYR JUKEMBAYEV
 
“I had a great training camp. I am ready for Saturday night. I know that he’s a good fighter but I promise that I will be ready.
 
“We will see Saturday night whether it’s going to end in a knockout. I’ll show you what I’m made of and you will all see.”
 
GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL
 
“I’m in the hurt business. He’s a slugger. If he wants to come in there and slug with me, he will feel my power. He will see how intelligent I am. Not just mentally, but physically with my hands. Like I said, I’m in the hurt business. I come to hurt.
 
“Pardon my lack of Spanish, but what you are going to see is, ‘la violencia.’ He’s going to bring his pressure. He’s going to bring punches in bunches and I believe that’s all he can bring. If he’s been training and trying to perfect himself for my style of fighting, that’s fine. You’re not supposed to come in here one-dimensional. A diamond shines from all sides.
 
“The only thing I can say is this venue is going to promote blood, sweat and tears and the desire of people to be great. I’m definitely one of them. I’ve been in the gym giving my blood, my sweat and my tears and I’m bringing all of that to this venue come Saturday night.
 
“I definitely want to stay more active. That’s always been my plan. The pandemic slowed things down. Fans always tell me they want to see me get back in there…I just tell them, me too. The fighters aren’t the ones pulling all of the strings. Should I be more active? Of course. I want to be more active.
 
“I want to show that I’m the cream of the crop. I’m a superstar. The light hasn’t been shining on me because there’s a lot of other things going on. Until then, you’re going to have to wait and see. Come Saturday, it will be a great show. There will be some sparks and fireworks. I have an opponent that’s not willing to lay down. If he’s not willing to, I must make him lay down.”
 
JOVANIE SANTIAGO
 
“I know that he’s a good fighter. An Olympian. He’s young and he’s going to come fight. I’m going to come to fight too, so if the fight finishes early, then it finishes early.
 
“I just have to work round-by-round, throw punches and win one round at a time. After I beat Russell, everybody is going to be on my side.
 
“This is my weight. This is where I’m most comfortable. I’ve always been a 140-pounder and Saturday that’s what I’m going to demonstrate.
 
“This time, I’m fighting at my actual weight. I feel strong. I’m coming to work round-by-round and on Saturday everybody will see what I’m all about.”
 
# # #
 
ABOUT OUBAALI VS. DONAIRE
Oubaali vs. Donaire will pit undefeated WBC Bantamweight World Champion Nordine Oubaali against future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire in a long-awaited 12-round championship showdown live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 29 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
 
In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature, hard-hitting contender Subriel Matías takes on undefeated Batyr Jukembayev in a 12-round IBF Junior Welterweight Title Eliminator, while unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell faces Jovanie Santiago in a 10-round super lightweight clash to open the telecast.
 
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions.
 
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
boxing, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

CHAD JOHNSON TRAINING CAMP QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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“I’m transitioning that flair you saw from me on the football field

all into this sport.”

Former NFL Star Wide Receiver Chad Johnson Makes Boxing Debut In an Exhibition Against Versatile Fighter Brian Maxwell on Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV® Undercard Sunday, June 6 from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens

Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions

HOUSTON – (May 26, 2021) – Former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson made a name for himself throughout his storied career by combining elite on-field production with highlight-reel celebrations and an outspokenness that made him a household name. Now, he will look to take that same formula into his boxing debut when he steps into the ring for an exhibition against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell on Sunday, June 6 as part of the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV event at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

In addition to bringing his brand of entertainment to the event, Johnson compared his own boxing style to one of the sport’s most unique fighters.

“I’m transitioning that flair you saw from me on the football field all into this sport,” said Johnson. “To me, my style is like Emanuel Augustus. Once I got those basic fundamentals down to a tee, I could add that trickery to my game.”

A long-time fan and student of the sweet science, Johnson never believed that he’d have this opportunity to box on this stage. However, once he received word from Mayweather and knew how long he’d have to prepare, he jumped on the chance presented.

“I never thought about stepping in the ring,” said Johnson. “I never thought there would be an opportunity to do so. But I love boxing. I’m friends with every boxer out there because I love and study all of it. I didn’t expect anything like this to happen. When Floyd called, the first thing I wanted to know, was how much time I had to prepare. Once I knew that I had enough time that I could look like myself in there, I knew I could pull it off.”

Always pushing the boundaries of what the public expects from athletes, Johnson will add another feather into what has been a remarkable career as an athlete and entertainer with this fight on June 6.

“This is a one-time thing,” said Johnson. “I’ve done some crazy things in life, and this is one to add and scratch off the bucket list. I’m coming in there to have fun and entertain.”

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ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. LOGAN PAUL

Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is a special exhibition bout presented by Mayweather Promotions, FANMIO and Mavathltcs that will take place on Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The telecast, which is being produced by SHOWTIME PPV, will air live beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and can be purchased now at SHOWTIME.com andFANMIO.com. The undercard will feature WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal vs. two-division world champion Badou Jack in a 12-round rematch, plus former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd against Luis Arias in a 10-round bout and in a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in an exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

For more information visit bit.ly/mayweatherpaul,  www.SHO.com/sports, www.FANMIO.com. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromo,@ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromotions, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SHOWTIME SPORTS DOCUMENTARY FILMS RELEASES OFFICIAL TRAILER AND POSTER ART FOR THE KINGS

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SHOWTIME® SPORTS DOCUMENTARY FILMS RELEASES OFFICIAL TRAILER AND POSTER ART FORTHE KINGS, AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THE BOXING GOLDEN AGE OF DURÁN, HAGLER, HEARNS AND LEONARD

Four-Part Documentary Series Premieres

Sunday, June 6 at 8 PM ET/PT

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NEW YORK – May 21, 2021 – Showtime Sports Documentary Films has released the official trailer and poster art for the upcoming documentary THE KINGS, a four-part series chronicling the fierce rivalry between world champions and Boxing Hall of Famers known as the “Four Kings” – Roberto “Manos de Piedra” Durán, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas “The Hitman” Hearns, and Sugar Ray Leonard. Premiering Sunday, June 6 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME, the series chronicles the four fighters’ dramatic and divergent ascents to greatness and the legendary matches they produced.

To watch and share the trailer, go to: https://s.sho.com/3whPJTt

THE KINGS spotlights boxing’s evolution from the end of Muhammad Ali’s era to the era of the Four Kings, set against the seismic political and socio-economic shifts taking place in the United States. The Four Kings rose to fame as the presidency of Jimmy Carter and economic recession gave way to the boon of 1980s capitalism and excess harnessed by the administrations of Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. Through in-depth interviews and archival footage, the series also examines the very personal battles that each man waged on his unique journey to the center of the sports world.

THE KINGS is produced by Box To Box Film in association with Ingenious Media. The series is executive produced by James Gay-Rees (Amy, Senna, Drive To Survive) and Paul Martin (Diego Maradona, Drive To Survive), produced by Fiona Neilson (Oasis: Supersonic, Coldplay: A Head Full of Dreams) and directed by Mat Whitecross (Oasis: Supersonic, Road To Guantanamo, Coldplay: A Head Full of Dreams).

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

UNDEFEATED WORLD CHAMP VELASQUEZ DEFENDS HER TITLE AGAINST KICKBOXING WORLD CHAMP KIELHOLTZ FRIDAY, JULY 16 AT BELLATOR 262

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LOS ANGELES – The main event of BELLATOR 262 on Friday, July 16 will feature undefeated 125-pound world champion Juliana Velasquez (11-0) making the first defense of her title against BELLATOR Kickboxing’s Flyweight World Champion and No. 4 ranked Denise Kielholtz (6-2). The card emanates from the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. and airs live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
 
A limited number of tickets starting at $60 go on sale beginning Friday, June 4, with a special presale starting on Thursday, June 3 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, and can be purchased at Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.
 
The preliminary portion of BELLATOR MMA 262: Velasquez vs. Kielholtz begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV. Additional bouts will be announced at a later date.
 
Hailing from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the 34-year-old Velasquez makes the first defense of her flyweight title since dethroning inaugural champion Ilima-Lei Macfarlane at BELLATOR 254 in December of last year. Sitting in the No. 2 slot on the BELLATOR women’s pound-for-pound rankings, Velasquez is a former Brazilian national champion in judo, a martial arts discipline she began training at age four. The Team Nogueira product has been a dominant force throughout her unblemished 11-fight professional career, including six wins under the BELLATOR banner.
 
“I’m extremely excited and happy to get back in the BELLATOR cage and defend my title for the first time,” said Velasquez. “I’ve been training really hard, and I’m fully prepared to put on an incredible performance for my fans. Denise has been a great champion in the BELLATOR kickboxing ring, but this MMA belt is mine and it will be going back to Brazil with me after the fight.”
 
Already the reigning BELLATOR Kickboxing Flyweight World Champion, Kielholtz is looking to capture the promotion’s MMA gold as well when she straps on the BELLATOR MMA gloves for the seventh time. The Dutch striking sensation, known to fans as “Miss Dynamite,” is riding a four-fight MMA winning streak, including a first round knockout over former title challenger Kate Jackson at BELLATOR 247 last October. Much like her opponent, the 32-year-old Kielholtz holds a black belt in judo with multiple titles as a member of the Dutch National Judo Team.
 
“This is the moment I’ve been waiting for since I was a child,” said Kielholtz. “My journey in martial arts started when I was nine years old. I have earned multiple championships from kickboxing and judo and I feel like the universe has put everything together. All the hard work, all the sacrifices I have made in my life have all led me to this opportunity. This will be the crowning achievement of my career. This is mine.”
 
# # #
 
BELLATOR MMA 262: Velasquez vs. Kielholtz Main Card:
SHOWTIME
Friday, July 16 – 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT 
 
Flyweight World Title Main Event: C-Juliana Velasquez (11-0) vs. #4-Denise Kielholtz (6-2)
 
Preliminary Card: 
BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV
5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT
 
For more information on upcoming BELLATOR MMA events, visit BELLATOR.com.
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

BELLATOR MMA ANNOUNCES RETURN OF LIVE AUDIENCES AND NEW RELATIONSHIP WITH ELEVATE SPORTS VENTURES

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BELLATOR MMA TO WELCOME FANS BACK TO LIVE EVENTS BEGINNING WITH BELLATOR 260 ON JUNE 11 AND BELLATOR 261 ON JUNE 25 AT MOHEGAN SUN ARENA
 
Elevate Sports Ventures Joins Bellator MMA To Support Sponsorship, Premium and Ticket Sales Strategies

NEW YORK – MAY 19, 2021 – BELLATOR MMA, a leading global mixed martial arts organization featuring the world’s most dominant combat sports athletes, is set to welcome back fans in attendance to watch live events beginning with BELLATOR 260: Lima vs. Amosov on Friday, June 11, and BELLATOR 261: Johnson vs. Moldavsky on Friday, June 25, at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Both events will be televised live on SHOWTIME®.

To amplify the anticipated return to fan-attended events, BELLATOR has tapped Elevate Sports Ventures, an innovative and resourceful sports and entertainment marketing firm, to support sponsorship, premium and ticket sales strategies for the internationally renowned mixed martial arts brand.

A limited number tickets starting at $60 will be made available beginning this Friday, May 21 for BELLATOR 260: Lima vs. Amosov and BELLATOR 261: Johnson vs. Moldavsky for purchase at Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.

Elevate’s integration comes on the heels of BELLATOR MMA’s move to its new exclusive U.S. television partner, SHOWTIME, which began televising the promotion’s events in April. The sports agency additionally will support BELLATOR’s marketing, operational and routing strategies for events moving forward.

“We are very excited to be getting into business with Elevate,” said BELLATOR MMA President Scott Coker. “They bring a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience to the table with a proven track record of providing consistent results for top professional sports franchises, leagues and events. It feels like our family just got bigger, and I am confident that this new relationship will lead to the continued growth of the BELLATOR brand.”

“At Elevate, we are inspired by BELLATOR’s ambition to meaningfully connect and engage with current and new fans, and aggressively route new live events to its diverse, global fanbase,” said Elevate Sports Ventures Chairman and CEO Al Guido.  

Following this Friday’s BELLATOR 259: Cyborg vs. Smith 2, BELLATOR MMA will have hosted 16 events without spectators in attendance at Mohegan Sun Arena during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the promotion held three cards in Milan, Italy, and a historic night of fights in Paris, which marked the first time a major MMA promotion held an event in France.

Elevate will leverage its “Insights” vertical, utilizing industry-leading data and analytics practices, to generate smarter sponsorship, premium and ticket-sales targets and strategies, including producing data-driven fan profile analysis, product and pricing strategies, lead-scoring modeling and more for BELLATOR MMA’s front office, global brand and future live events.

For more information on upcoming BELLATOR MMA events, visit BELLATOR.com.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

BADOU JACK AND LUIS ARIAS LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Also Featuring Non-Televised Undercard Fighters Jean Carlos Torres, Dorian Khan Jr., Jalil Hackett and Micky Scala
 
Two-Division Champion Jack and Veteran Contender Arias Preview Respective SHOWTIME PPV Matchups Taking Place Sunday, June 6 from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens
 
Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions
 
LAS VEGAS (May 18, 2021) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack and veteran contender Luis Arias previewed their respective showdowns during a Las Vegas media workout Tuesday, before they step in the ring for separate attractions of the Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Sunday, June 6 from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
 
Jack will return to the ring for a rematch against WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal, while Arias squares off against former unified champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd on the pay-per-view beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
 
Tickets for the live event are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.
 
The event also featured Mayweather Promotions’ fighters Jean Carlos Torres, Dorian Khan Jr., Jalil Hackett and Micky Scala, who will compete in separate non-televised bouts on Sunday, June 6. Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday from the Mayweather Boxing Club:
 
BADOU JACK
 
“Floyd called me in January last year and told me the rematch was on for April. That was last year. It’s been done since we walked out of the ring the first time, but I’m happy it’s finally done. I’m happy it’s here and I’m ready to put on a show.
 
“I’m trying to perfect everything in preparation for this matchup. Better nutrition. Better conditioning. Better sparring. I’m trying to be better at everything.
 
“This is my second fight with my new trainer Johnathan Banks. The first was just a tune-up fight. It wasn’t a high-level fight. It was an eight-rounder, so it was just like a sparring session. But I’m in way better shape than I was in the last camp and I’m ready to go.
 
“My fight is going to be a hell of a fight. Everybody knows that. It was a Fight of the Year contender last time. Floyd vs. Logan is going to be entertainment. That’s a different kind of fight, but Floyd is going to put on a show. All of the eyeballs are going to be on that night so it’s going to be a great night.
 
“Pascal likes trying to get under my skin, but I’m too calm. I’m too confident for that. At the end of the day, he’s a veteran, I’m a veteran and it’s going to be a great fight night.
 
“I thought I won the first fight. 75 percent of everybody that watched the fight thought I won. There was only one judge that had experience, Julie Lederman, and she had me winning. The other two might have scored his so-called punches but it is what it is.
 
“Johnathan Banks is my new coach. He’s great. He’s only a year older than me so we have great chemistry together and everything has been working great. It was a little hard in the beginning to adjust to certain things, but now in camp I feel great in sparring and everything we’re doing right now.”
 
LUIS ARIAS
 
“It feels amazing to be involved in this event. For a fighter like me who’s been up and down, who was undefeated at one point and then lost it all, went from being one of the best to being overlooked, to be able to fight my way through and to be able to keep fighting and keep working to get back on this big stage is truly a blessing. I’m happy. I’m blessed. I can’t wait to get on that stage.
 
“Boxing is my life and I had to make the necessary changes to get back to this level. I’ve already been to the highest level and I fell short. I got the experience of being there, I know what I need to do to get there and I made those necessary changes. It’s one of the reasons I came back to Vegas, to start training over here to get that experience, to get to that level and to get better. That’s what I’ve been doing and that’s why I’ve been able to prove that I still belong. Floyd saw it. I sparred Floyd. He sees that I still got it and I’m making the changes. He sees how my body is changing and he sees that I can still compete.”
 
JEAN CARLOS TORRES
 
“I’m very happy to be on this card. I am going to give the best fight that I can for all my fans. I’m going to do the best that I can.”
 
DORIAN KHAN JR.
 
“It feels good to be a part of this event. I’m just getting ready for my fight and focusing on that, but it’s a good opportunity so I’m ready.”
 
JALIL HACKETT
 
“It’s amazing to sign with Floyd Mayweather and be a part of this event. It’s a dream come true. I’ve worked so hard since I was eight years old and I’m finally here getting the fruits of my labor.”
 
MICKY SCALA
 
“It feels great to be part of the biggest event probably in boxing history. I’m super excited. My family and friends are super excited. We have a lot of fans that are excited and I can’t wait to put on a show. I’m very thankful to Mayweather Promotions for getting me on this card and giving me this opportunity. I’m going to make the best of it.
 
“That fight before the pandemic at Sam’s Town was a big motivation for me during the down time to stay ready because I knew another fight was going to come soon. My family was a big part of that motivation. I want to make sure that they can live however they want to, so I’m working hard every single day. I’ve been ready to fight since the day the pandemic started until now. I can’t wait to put on a show in Miami.”
 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO MAYWEATHER PROMOTIONS
 
“We have two hot events coming up. We have the Floyd event with him taking on Logan Paul. Tremendous undercard from top to bottom. We have all my pro debut guys. I call them my starting five. And then we have Chad Ochocinco who is going to be fighting in an exhibition. Everybody is dying to see that. And then we have former unified champion Jarrett Hurd taking on Mayweather Promotions’ own Luis Arias. I think that will be a tremendous fight. Those guys will be looking to steal the show in a 10-round bout. In the co-main event, we have none other than Pascal vs. Jack. That will be a war. Their first fight was a Fight of the Year and I expect nothing different. The fans are really in for a treat with that fight.
 
“We were just waiting for the right opportunity to make the Pascal vs. Jack rematch. This is a tremendous platform. It’s a huge event and it’s the type of platform that these two guys deserve, to be seen on a global situation around the world.
 
“My starting five is filled with top-tier talent. I know talent when I see it. Each and every one of these guys I’ve had a great look at up close and personal and I was beyond impressed. Floyd was also. All of them have big futures.
 
“Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is entertainment. Floyd is an entertainer. Logan Paul is an entertainer. One thing about the Paul brothers is they’ve shown they can have an impact on anything that they do. I’ve been very impressed with both of those guys, especially Logan. I call him the king of the internet. One thing about both of them is that they’ve been extremely consistent at what they’ve been doing. I’m not going to stand here and pretend that these guys are ready for championship fights because they’re not, but they work extremely hard and they’re very good at what they do.”
 
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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JERMALL CHARLO vs. JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL HOUSTON KICK-OFF PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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WBC Middleweight World Champion Charlo Faces Hard-Hitting Montiel in Special Juneteenth Day Celebration Saturday, June 19 Headlining a Premier Boxing Champions Event Live on SHOWTIME®
 
Click HERE for Photos; Credit: Esther Lin/Showtime
 
HOUSTON – May 18, 2021 – Unbeaten WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo and hard-hitting 160-pound contender Juan Macías Montiel met face-to-face for the first time Tuesday during a kick-off press conference as they preview the main event of a special Juneteenth Day celebration in Charlo’s hometown of Houston Saturday, June 19 at Toyota Center headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event live on SHOWTIME.
 
Charlo has established himself as a force in two divisions and will seek to thrill his hometown crowd against Mexico’s Montiel in a first-of-its-kind Juneteenth Day boxing celebration. Charlo will fight in Houston for the fourth time as a pro and look to keep his undefeated record intact against the upset-minded Montiel.
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature rising lightweight contender Isaac Cruz battling former world champion Francisco Vargas in the 10-round co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, former world champion Angelo Leo returns to take on Mexican contender Aaron Alameda in a 10-round super bantamweight bout. 
 
Here is what Charlo, Montiel and their trainers had to say Tuesday:
 
JERMALL CHARLO:
 
“June 19, it’s going to be fireworks. A parade. A celebration. Me and Ronnie Shields get a chance to do it again. I’m working hard. I was working hard before I even knew who Montiel was. This time, you get a chance to see all the hard work I’ve put in for so many years. It’s a dream come true to be able to fight in my city and I get a chance to do it with a crowd. Tune in and get your tickets because it’s going to be a great night of boxing.
 
“There’s no better day to fight than Juneteenth. It’s a celebration for me and my people and I get to represent them and carry them on my back. To be able to do it for my city right here at the Toyota Center – it’s going to be an amazing night of boxing.
 
“Montiel is fearless. He’s a fighter that I think deserves a chance. At this point, he understands where he’s at. This is a big fight. A lot of people may not know who Montiel is, just like I didn’t, but he’s a strong fighter. The people want to see me get tested, right? I want to see those big fights, too. In a matter of time, they’ll come. But Montiel should be a good fight.
 
“I’m going to whoop his ass. He doesn’t stand a chance. They’re all confident. I got the belt. The belt ain’t going nowhere. Toyota Center, get ready. It’s going to be fireworks June 19. He can be as confident as he wants, but when we get in there he’s going to have to figure it out.
 
“I’m ready to fight the best in the world. I’m the best in the world and I’m not going to let this guy over here stop me. The belt is not going nowhere. The belt is staying right here in ‘H Town.’ There’s nothing he could do about it. Nothing. It’s my belt. It’s my legacy. You’ll find out June 19.
 
“A fighter like Montiel is challenging to go in there and get the job done real clean and swiftly because if I look bad against a guy like this, they’ll take away from what I did in the Derevyanchenko fight. But, yes, to date, Derevyanchenko was one of my hardest fights, but I made nice work of it and onto the next one.
 
“I got the belt. Champions fight champions. We unify. But if not, we’re not just going to sit back. Those guys that have the belt like Triple G, Canelo and Andrade – the belts are out there so eventually it will happen. I’m not in a rush. I’m young. I’m still having fun. I’m enjoying what I do best.
 
“If Triple G wants this WBC belt, I have it. It’s over here, it’s open. I’m ready to fight.”
 
JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL:
 
“We are focused on preparing as well as possible. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and we are taking it as such with a lot of dedication and discipline. We are ready to put on a great show on June 19.
 
“This is the fight I always dreamed of. I am all about challenging myself and fighting against the best of the best. I have been training hard and I believe in myself. I will be ready to come out and win.
 
“We’re fighting in Houston because I don’t think that I’m in a position to choose or dictate anything right now. I will fight anywhere in order to make my dream of becoming a champion come true. If we have to fight on the moon, then let’s fight on the moon.
 
“I believe that power is the great equalizer, a legit advantage in boxing, since it can change the fortunes of any fighter inside the ring. I consider my power an advantage in my favor.
 
“I have fought and prepared so hard for the opportunity to go and get this championship belt. I have done things the right way, there is no reason for things to go wrong. As I said previously, I am not in a position to choose where to fight. I just have to keep training hard like I have since I was four years old.
 
“I’m happy that there will be fans in the stands. I don’t feel any pressure, because it’s all about Latin pride and support and that motivates me.
 
“I think Charlo is a great fighter, super talented and the world champion for a reason. I have been preparing my whole life for this.
 
“I don’t think that all Mexicans just go on attack mode by default, you also have to be smart and think things through depending on how the fight goes.”
 
RONNIE SHIELDS, CHARLO’S TRAINER:
 
“Jermall Charlo has worked his butt off in the gym and he continues to do that. To defend your title in your backyard, in your hometown, that’s a very special thing. Not only is it going to be special because of that, it’s going to be special because Juneteenth is a very special day for all African Americans in the state of Texas. We’re looking forward to a great fight. Montiel is a really great fighter and we know we can’t underestimate anybody. We’re going to be in the best condition we’ve ever been in every time we fight and we’re going to continue to do that. We’re looking forward to having everybody come out for this great celebration.
 
“I think a lot of people were surprised how easily Jermall beat Sergey Derevyanchenko. He was the No. 1 contender. He was the mandatory defense. He gave Triple G problems. He gave Danny Jacobs problems. And Jermall beat him.”
 
EDUARDO MONTIEL, MONTIEL’S TRAINER:
 
“Training camp is an ongoing process. Things are going swimmingly, just like we wanted them to. We are very happy and so glad people have welcomed us here in Houston with open arms.
 
“I’m hoping for Montiel to be in his best physical, mental and emotional shape to come out with a win on June 19. Our biggest advantage right now is that we are already settled in here in the United States, free of the distractions and temptations we might have back home in Mexico.
 
“I think that a victory of this magnitude would make Montiel the face of Mexican boxing, rubbing elbows with the Canelos of the world. Life would change overnight for him.”
 
DOUG HALL, GENERAL MANAGER, TOYOTA CENTER:
 
“We welcome SHOWTIME and our friends from Premier Boxing Champions back to Toyota Center. We have a great history of hosting combat sports in this fine arena. We’re really excited about what Jermall Charlo and Juan Macías Montiel are going to bring to the Toyota Center on June 19. Tickets are on sale now at toyotacenter.com and we are looking forward to a great night as we bring back live events to this market. We can do it successfully and safely and we want to see everybody come and see a great championship boxing match.”
 
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @MayweatherPromo on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LionsOnlyPromotions, @TGBPromotionss and @MayweatherPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JERMALL CHARLO TO FACE JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL SATURDAY, JUNE 19 AT TOYOTA CENTER IN HOUSTON LIVE ON SHOWTIME

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Hard-Hitting Lightweight Contender Isaac Cruz Faces Former World Champion Francisco Vargas in the Co-Main Event
 
Former World Champion Angelo Leo Duels Mexican Contender
Aaron Alameda to Kick Off Telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
Tickets on Sale Tomorrow, Thursday, May 13 at 12 p.m. CT!
 
HOUSTON (May 12, 2021) – Undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo will enter the ring for a Juneteenth Day celebration in his hometown when he takes on hard-hitting Juan Macías Montiel on Saturday, June 19 at Toyota Center in Houston headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event live on SHOWTIME.
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature rising lightweight contender Isaac Cruz battling former world champion Francisco Vargas in the 10-round co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, former world champion Angelo Leo returns to take on Mexican contender Aaron Alameda in a 10-round super bantamweight bout. 
 
Charlo has established himself as a force in two divisions and will seek to thrill his hometown crowd against Mexico’s Montiel, in a first-of-its-kind Juneteenth Day boxing celebration. Charlo will fight in Houston for the fourth time as a pro and look to keep his undefeated record intact against the upset-minded Montiel.
 
The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, May 13 at 12 p.m. CT and can be purchased attoyotacenter.com. Leo vs. Alameda is promoted in association with Mayweather Promotions.
 
Charlo (31-0, 22 KOs) will return to fight in his hometown for the first time since a June 2019 unanimous decision victory over Brandon Adams on SHOWTIME. The 30-year-old most recently scored an impressive victory over top middleweight contender Sergey Derevyanchenko in their September 2020 showdown. Charlo has held the WBC middleweight belt since 2019, after a championship reign at 154-pounds that lasted from 2015 through 2017. He has compiled a perfect 6-0 record since moving up to middleweight and owns victories over former champions Julian Williams, Austin Trout and Cornelius Bundrage at super welterweight.
 
“It’s great to be back in the ring, headlining on SHOWTIME and defending my title in front of my hometown fans in Houston,” said Charlo. “Fighting on Juneteenth means a lot to me because there is a battle going on far greater than this. That said, I have to handle my business on June 19. Montiel is a tough, young, power puncher. I know he wants my crown, but I’m hungrier than ever and ready to put on a show for my fans. Get ready for a special, explosive night.”
 
Representing his native Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Montiel (22-4-2, 22 KOs) has earned knockouts in all 22 of his pro victories, as the heavy-handed brawler established himself as a hard-hitting force. The 27-year-old has put together an unbeaten streak since moving up to middleweight, first competing at the weight in September 2017, and most recently scoring a first-round knockout victory over longtime contender James Kirkland in December 2020. He owns stoppages of Marco Reyes and Gustavo Castro, and a draw against Hugo Centeno, Jr. at middleweight. Montiel had previously campaigned at welterweight and super welterweight, dropping a February 2017 bout to former champion Jaime Munguia in a 147-pound fight.
 
“I know that I am fighting the best middleweight in the world, but he has never faced someone who can punch like I can,” said Montiel. “All my losses in the past are from not training properly and trying to win by one-punch knockout. I’ve grown up and become a man since then. I proved that I was different when I beat Marco Reyes in 2019, and I haven’t left the gym since then. I’ve worked hard every day to become world champion and I will display everything I’ve learned on June 19.”
 
The 22-year-old Cruz (21-1-1, 15 KOs) shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in September. Cruz followed that up this March, when he won a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Matias Romero. Since making his U.S. debut on the undercard of Jermall Charlo vs. Dennis Hogan in December 2019, the Mexico City-native has been unbeaten in his four ring appearances. This will mark his fifth fight in 20 months, the last four of which will have come on SHOWTIME, including headlining ShoBox: The Next Generation in February 2020.
 
“Me and Vargas are going to show the fans true Mexican-style boxing on June 19,” said Cruz. “He is also from Mexico City, so I know this fight will be toe-to-toe. It’s my time to show the fans that I’m the best Mexican lightweight in the world. In with the new, and out with the old. I want to thank my promoter, Senator Manny Pacquiao, for his support and belief that I will become world champion very soon.”
 
Also a native of Mexico City, Vargas (27-2-2, 19 KOs) won a 130-pound title in 2015 by defeating Takashi Miura in one of the year’s best fights. The 36-year-old would go on to fight Orlando Salido to an action-packed draw before losing his title to Miguel Berchelt in another memorable affair. Vargas went on to defeat Stephen Smith and Rod Salka before losing in his rematch with Berchelt in 2019. Most recently, Vargas began campaigning at lightweight, scoring back-to-back victories with a technical decision over Ezequiel Aviles in October 2019 and a TKO over Otto Gamez in November 2020.
 
“I only know how to fight wars and the fans should expect nothing less on June 19,” said Vargas. “I am a warrior, and people are going to remember the reasons why I was in two Fight of the Year battles when they see me in the ring with Isaac Cruz. I want to thank my whole team for putting together this fight that I know the fans will enjoy.”
 
Leo (20-1, 9 KOs), who fights out of the Mayweather Promotions stable, became the first world champion from his hometown of Albuquerque, N.M., since legendary three-division champion Johnny Tapia, when he defeated Tramaine Williams by unanimous decision in August 2020. The 26-year-old dropped the belt when he lost a decision to unbeaten Stephen Fulton Jr. in January on SHOWTIME. Leo, who trains in Las Vegas, will look to re-establish his position in the stacked 122-pound division on June 19.
 
“I’m excited to get back in the ring for this fight,” said Leo. “I wasn’t the same fighter in my last fight, as I was when I won the title. That’s given me a big chip on my shoulder. I figured out my mistakes and learned a lot about myself. I’m here to show people that I’m still a top contender and a threat in this division. Alameda is a real contender and he’s not an opponent I’m taking lightly. Whoever comes out on top in this fight will be right there for another title shot and I plan on that being me.”
 
The 27-year-old Aaron Alameda (25-1, 13 KOs) was able to stop Luis Nery’s knockout streak but came up on the short end of the decision in their super bantamweight title fight last September. Prior to the Nery fight, the Sonora, Mexico native had back-to-back knockouts over Jordan Escobar and Breilor Teran. A pro since 2014, his previous action in the U.S. saw him earn a sixth-round knockout over Andre Wilson in 2016.
 
“I can’t wait for another big fight on June 19,” said Alameda. “I showed that I belong with the best in my last fight against Luis Nery, and I will be even better against Leo. My goal is to become world champion and I plan on displaying everything I’ve worked on in this fight. I’m excited to battle Leo and give the fans a great show.”
 
# # #
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and@MayweatherPromo on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LionsOnlyPromotions, @TGBPromotionss and @MayweatherPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

PAUL ‘SEMTEX’ DALEY TO FACE JASON JACKSON IN CO-MAIN EVENT OF BELLATOR MMA 260 ON JUNE 11

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London UK – BELLATOR MMA have today confirmed that Paul “Semtex” Daley (43-17-2) will join the main card of BELLATOR MMA 260: Lima vs. Amosov, where he will take on No. 3 ranked Jason Jackson (14-4) in an explosive 175-pound contract weight co-main event at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. on Friday, June 11.  The event will be televised live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

BELLATOR 260 will be headlined by Welterweight World Champion Douglas Lima (32-8), who will defend his 170-pound title against the undefeated and top-ranked Yaroslav Amosov (25-0).

Elsewhere on the card, No. 9 ranked Tywan Claxton (6-2) faces the undefeated and newly signed Justin Gonzales (11-0) in featherweight action, while Connecticut’s Nick Newell (16-3) takes center stage against promotional debutant Bobby King (9-3) in a 155-pound clash and Demarques Jackson (11-5) meets Mark Lemminger (11-3) at welterweight. Featherweight legacy fighter Lucas Brennan (4-0) takes on Matthew Skibicki (4-3) and Amanda Bell (7-7) takes on Marina Mokhnatkina (4-2) in female featherweight action.

The preliminary card will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV. Additional bouts will be announced at a later date.

Fighting out of Nottingham, England, the hard-hitting Paul “Semtex” Daley will head into the fight looking to make it three straight wins on the bounce inside the BELLATOR MMA cage. Daley, who remains one of the most experienced athletes on the BELLATOR MMA roster with 62 professional MMA fights to his name, returns to action after beating old foe Sabah “The Sleek Sheik” Homasivia TKO at BELLATOR 257 last month. Daley put on a dominant performance that night, reminding fans of his explosive power and ability to stop his opponent in the second round. With notable wins over Lorenz Larkin, Erick Silva and Saad Awad, Daley is currently the promotion’s No. 8 ranked welterweight athlete. Another win for the 38-year-old in his next fight against Jackson will see him rise up the welterweight rankings and could propel him into contention for a run at the title.

Standing in his way will be 30-year-old Jason Jackson, the electric welterweight who trains out of Sanford MMA in South Florida. Currently riding a four-fight win streak inside the BELLATOR MMA cage, Jackson put on a dominant display in his last performance against Neiman Gracie at BELLATOR 255. The win over Gracie is the latest in an impressive run with the promotion, which also includes victories over notable names including Kiichi Kunimoto, Jordan Mein and Benson Henderson. Currently ranked No. 3 in the promotion’s welterweight rankings, Jackson will hope to make it five wins in a row and add another victory to his name when he meets Daley on June 11.

With further bouts set to be announced in the coming weeks, fans can look forward to another stacked card and an unforgettable night of world-class MMA action from the Mohegan Sun Arena.

BELLATOR MMA fans who are new subscribers to the SHOWTIME streaming service can sign up now for a limited time offer which includes a 30-day free trial, followed by a discounted monthly subscription fee of $4.99/month for the next six months. Viewers can sign up at SHO.com/BellatorMMA. Subscribers will be delivered two premier BELLATOR MMA events per month throughout 2021 and beyond, with all events scheduled to air live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT anywhere the SHOWTIME service is available.  

BELLATOR MMA 260: Lima vs. Amosov Main Card:

SHOWTIME

9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT 

Welterweight World Title Main Event: C-Douglas Lima (32-8) vs. #1-Yaroslav Amosov (25-0)

Contract Weight Co Main Event:  #8- Paul Daley (43-17-2) vs. #3 Jason Jackson (14-4)

Preliminary Card: 

BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV

Featherweight Bout: #9-Tywan Claxton (6-2) vs. Justin Gonzales (11-0)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Newell (16-3) vs. Bobby King (9-3)

Featherweight Bout: Lucas Brennan (4-0) vs. Matthew Skibicki (4-3)

 Featherweight Bout: Amanda Bell (7-7) vs. Marina Mokhnatkina (4-2)

Welterweight Bout: Demarques Jackson (11-5) vs. Mark Lemminger (11-3)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit BELLATOR.com for additional information.