Tag Archives: Tony Harrison

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UNDEFEATED RISING STAR JERMELL CHARLO FACES FORMER WORLD CHAMPION JOACHIM ALCINE ON HALLOWEEN NIGHT IN HIS HOMETOWN AS PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBCSN COMES TO NRG ARENA IN HOUSTON, TEXAS 11 P.M. ET/8 P.M. PT

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Powerful Super Welterweight Prospect Tony Harrison Takes On
Cecil McCalla In The Co-Main Event
 
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HOUSTON (September 25, 2015) – Undefeated rising star Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo (26-0, 11 KOs) will look to put on a show for his hometown fans when he takes on Joachim Alcine (35-7-2, 21 KOs) in a 10-round super welterweight bout on Halloween night, Saturday, October 31 as Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBCSN comes to NRG Arena in Houston, Texas.
Televised coverage begins at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT with powerful super welterweight prospect Tony Harrison (21-1, 18 KOs) taking on Cecil McCalla (20-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round super welterweight attraction. Doors in the arena open at 5 p.m. CT and will feature a full night of exciting action.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija*Battah Promotions, are priced at $163, $109, $49 and $22, plus applicable fees. A Pre-sale ticket discount with special passcode is available now through Sunday at 11:59pm online only at ticketmaster.com. The public tickets are on sale now by calling Leija*Battah Promotions at 210.979.3302 or at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 800.745.3000, via the internet at www.ticketmaster.com and at the NRG Stadium South Ticket Windows.
“This is a good fight against a former world champion,” said Charlo. “He’s experienced and he’s been in the ring with multiple world champions. I’m not taking anything away from him, but Houston is my town. I’ve been anticipating another fight here. I’m ready to go and I’m going to put on a great show.”
“I am so excited for this opportunity to compete against a young, strong fighter like Jermell Charlo,” said Alcine. “I don’t think he’s faced a fighter with my level of experience in big fights. I am not going to make it easy for him. I am going to challenge Charlo like he never has been before.”
Younger-by-one-minute than his identical twin, super welterweight world champion Jermall, Charlo is also a highly ranked young fighter looking to get one step closer to a world title shot. A tall fighter for his division, the 25-year-old stepped up in class in 2014 and delivered three wide unanimous decision victories over Gabriel Rosado, Charlie Ota and Mario Lozano. In 2015 he delivered his most impressive victory to date, beating highly-ranked Vanes Martirosyan in March.
A veteran of the sport for over 15 years, Alcine is unbeaten in his last three bouts. The 39-year-old won a world title in 2007 with a victory over previously unbeaten Travis Simms and defended against Alfonso Mosquera. Born in Haiti, but fighting out of Quebec, Alcine owns a victory over David Lemieux and most recently fought to a split-draw with Delvin Rodriguez.
At just 25-years-old, Harrison has made big noise recording a 10-fight knockout streak before dropping his last fight to Willie Nelson. The Detroit-native will look to bounce back and return to the win column when he enters the ring onOctober 31. He has picked up victories over Antwone Smith, Tyrone Brunson, Bronco McKart and Pablo Munguia in the last two years.
After an extended amateur career in which he competed in nearly 100 fights, McCalla is looking to bounce back from a loss to Ishe Smith in April. He entered 2015 on a 20-fight win streak and hopes to get back on track onOctober 31. The 30-year-old fights out of Baltimore, Maryland.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.nbcsports.com/boxing andwww.leijabattahpromo.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TwinCharlo, @IAmBoxing, @LeijaBattahPR, @NBCSports, @NRGParkFan and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.
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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN – THURMAN VS. COLLAZO OFFICIAL WEIGHTS & WEIGH-IN PHOTOS

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BLUE CORNER   RED

 
BANTAMWEIGHTS — 6 Rounds
Gary Antonio Russell

 Washington, DC
2-0 (2 KOs)

117.8 lbs.

 vs. Jaxel Marrero
San Juan, PR
1-5-1
119 lbs.
     
SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS — 6 Rounds
Manny Woods

St Petersburg, FL
13-3-1 (5 KOs)
154.8 lbs.

 vs. Carlos Garcia
Aguada, PR
7-14-1 (7 KOs)
153.8 lbs.
     
SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS — 10 Rounds
Anthony Peterson

Washington, DC
34-1 (22 KOs)
138 lbs.

 vs. Ramesis Gil
San Juan, PR
8-11-5 (5 KOs)
137.4 lbs.
     
SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS — 4 Rounds
Antonio Tarver Jr.

Orlando, FL
2-0 (2 KOs)

155.2 lbs.

 vs. Julian Valerio

Brooklyn, NY

2-3 (1 KO)
155 lbs.

 

    
SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS — 10 Rounds
Walter Castillo

Managua, NIC
25-3 (18 KOs)
143.6 lbs.

 vs. Amet Diaz

Panama City, PAN
32-11 (23 KOs)
143.8 lbs.
     
LIGHTWEIGHTS — 10 Rounds
Edner Cherry

Wauchula, FL
33-6-2 (18 KOs)
132 lbs.

 vs. Luis Cruz
Las Piedras, PR
21-3 (16 KOs)
132.8 lbs.
     
SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS — 4 Rounds
Bruno Bredicean
Cape Coral, FL
Pro Debut
148.2 lbs.		 vs.

Randy Hedderick

Gulfport, MS

0-3

149.8 lbs.
     
SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS — 8 Rounds
Patryk Szymanski

Konin, POL
13-0  (8 KOs)
155.6 lbs.

 vs. Maurice Louishomme

Colorado Springs, CO
8-2- (4 KOs)
154.6 lbs.
     
MIDDLEWEIGHTS — 10 Rounds
Tony Harrison

Detroit, MI
21-0 (18 KOs)
153.8 lbs.

 vs. Willie Nelson
Cleveland, OH
23-2-1  (13 KOs)
154.6
     
WBA WELTERWEIGHTS — 12 Rounds
Keith Thurman

Clearwater, FL
25-0  (21 KOs)
146.2 lbs.

 vs. Luis Collazo

Queens, NY
36-6 (19 KOs)
147 lbs.

 

 

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Click HERE For Photos From Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions
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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos From Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions

 

Click HERE For ESPN Replay

 

TAMPA (July 9, 2015) – Two days before their primetime fights, televised fighters onPremier Boxing Champions on ESPN conducted a final press conference before theirSaturday, July 11 bouts at USF Sun Dome in Tampa.

 

While main event participants Keith “One Time” Thurman (25-0, 21 KOs) and Luis Collazo (36-6, 19 KOs) were calm and focused discussing their world title bout, Tony Harrison (21-0, 18 KOs) and Willie Nelson (23-2-1, 13 KOs) launched verbal jabs at each other during the formal portion of the press conference and through their face-offs.

 

Televised coverage begins on ESPN at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Here is what the press conference participants had to say:

 

KEITH THURMAN

 

“I’m so blessed to be here. Some of you reporters remember me since I was a little boy, when Ben Getty went around and told everybody that I was going to be a champion and we are champion. Fighting right back here in my hometown.

 

“Tampa used to have a rich boxing history and I’m looking forward to bringing that back.

 

“Collazo is a solid fighter, with a great resume and he has something to prove. He’s trying to take my title home and I believe him. A hungry man is a dangerous man.

 

“I’m thankful for everyone who has come to support me and I can’t wait to see everybodyon Saturday night.

 

“This is going to be an exciting night of boxing. We have a lot of talent from Tampa on top of even more world class talent on the card. If you’re off the clock, get there at 6:30.

 

“July 4th there were some nice fireworks, on July 11 there will be better ones.”

 

 

LUIS COLLAZO

 

“Keith Thurman is a champion, I can’t take anything away from him. He’s a champion in boxing but he still has more to learn. There’s not a day I go to the gym and don’t learn something new.

 

“I’ve had a great camp and I’m sure Keith has too. This is a fight you have to be ready for, not only physically but mentally as well.

 

“I’m not here for a handout. I’m coming here for win and to bring that belt back to Brooklyn.

 

“I’m a problem to a lot of fighters because of my style.

 

“I’m fighting to inspire all the kids who were counted out before they were even given a chance. I always want to help those who have been counted out.

 

“I’ve had a lot of experience coming into my opponent’s hometown and it can be tough having people against you. But at the end of the fight they could be with you.”

 

TONY HARRISON

 

“There’s nothing like the background I come from. There is no place like Detroit.  Everybody knows what I bring into the ring.

 

“I have what it takes to knock Willie Nelson out. Everyone knows he has a glass chin. I’m going out there to exploit it.

 

“I’ve had a great training camp and I thank my team for that. This fight is a challenge for me and that’s why I took it.  Anybody that tall at this weight is a challenge for everybody.

 

“I’m looking forward to fight and I’m looking forward to the challenge.  It’s not enough to just beat Willie Nelson, I have to knock him out. The challenge is to look good and steal the show from this great main event.”

 

WILLIE NELSON

 

“I’m the youngest of eight kids. I was raised by my sister. The dirt had more value than my life at times.  I have four kids, I’m not letting this guy beat me and take food off their plate.

 

“How many times do I have to prove everybody wrong? I’m going to do it, once again, on Saturday night.

 

“I wanted to get Tony pumped up today and get him off of his game plan so we can capitalize on fight night. It worked, I even had his team fired up. So I’m extremely confident, it’s on to the fight.”

 

# # #


“PBC on ESPN – THURMAN vs. COLLAZO,” a 12-round fight for Thurman’s Welterweight World Championship, takes place Saturday, July 11, at the USF Sun Dome in Tampa, Florida. The event is promoted by Warrior’s Boxing. In the co-main event, Tony Harrison will face Willie Nelson in a 10-round middleweight bout. It will air live on ESPN (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

                                                                                                                                                           

For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KeithFThurmanJr, @RealLuisCollazo, @WarriorsBoxingProm and @ESPNBoxing and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/premierboxingchampions

and www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo.
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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN FIGHTER MEDIA WORKOUTS QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos From Przemek Garczarczyk

 

TAMPA (July 8, 2015) -Fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN card held media workouts in Tampa today before their July 11 showdowns at the USF Sun Dome with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

The headlining event will pit undefeated Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman (25-0, 21 KOs) against former world champion Luis Collazo (36-6, 19 KOs). The televised opener will see undefeated rising star Tony Harrison (21-0, 19 KOS) taking on the quick-fisted Willie Nelson (23-2-1, 13 KOS). Also participating in the workout was the son of former world champion Antonio Tarver, Antonio Tarver Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs) who will fight on the undercard.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, are priced at $200, $150, $75, $50 and $25, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the Sun Dome box office.

 

Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:

 

KEITH THURMAN

 

“There’s a lot to talk about with this fight. The fact that it’s on ESPN, people are going to tune-in and I’ll have the opportunity to make more fans and broaden my fan base. It’s another audition for a national audience.

 

“Depending on how you do, your stock goes up. An impressive win though, that gets you a real jump. I’ve worked hard to get here and I want to be spectacular.

 

“I believe the excitement will come for myself when I enter the arena and I hear the cheers of the hometown crowd. I’ve gotten a lot of love and respect from different venues I’ve fought at, but it’s been a long time since I’ve been back home.

 

“There are a lot of people who have followed my career that haven’t been able to see me, live in action. The fact that I’m bringing this fight home, I just think about when Winky Wright did it; Jeff Lacy did it; Antonio Tarver did it; it’s a big thing for me emotionally to be able to bring world-class boxing back to Tampa Bay.

 

“I’m looking forward to a great performance and hopefully we can continuously bring these big fights back to Tampa Bay.”

 

LUIS COLLAZO

 

“My preparation was for 15 rounds so we’re ready to go the distance. I’m here for the long haul.

 

“I’m trying to pull off the upset again. Anything can happen in this sport, one punch can end everything, so we’ll see what happens on Saturday.

 

“With the Khan fight I showed myself how much passion I still have for the sport. This fight here, everyone is going to see the old Luis Collazo again.

 

“I’m the type of guy who doesn’t like to plan ahead. I’m the underdog and I love being the underdog. I’ve been the underdog all my life. It inspires me to go out there and show the fans that anything is possible not just in the ring, but in life.

 

“I’m going to give it my all, that’s the type of person I am. I didn’t come here for handout so I hope he’s prepared.”

 

TONY HARRISON

 

“Nelson’s got a lot of heart. I’m not underestimating him. I’m coming in in top shape. I did things I normally don’t do in training. I went swimming for this camp. We know what we’re up against.

 

“He’s got the heart of a champion. He’s been knocked down before, but he gets back up and starts fighting again, so we know we’re up against a real tough fighter.

 

“I’ve been ready to face a guy of this caliber for a long time. I’ve been sparring Gennady Golovkin, Andy Lee, K9, and Luis Collazo. I’ve been in with champions before I even turned pro. I’ve been in with the best and did what I was supposed to do against them.

 

“All these guys are familiar faces to me. Luis Collazo and Willie. These guys have been down to Kronk to spar me. I’ve been on that stage and had those wars in the gym already, so I’m ready.

 

“It feels great for Detroit to be back on the map and getting the recognition that’s been missing for many years. If I can be the one to help out the next generation of Detroit fighters and make it easier for them to break through so be it.”

 

WILLIE NELSON

 

“Training camp has been excellent. I’ve sparred with a lot of different guys, especially ones that were heavier than me and have given me some great work.

 

“Tony knows how to use his height in the ring, but I’m a tall fighter so he won’t be able to do that against me. He’s a puncher, that’s what he tries to do.

 

“I channel out any of the talking he does. I’m self-motivated and I know what I need to do out there. I can’t get mad at his antics because that does nothing for me.

 

“I want to be one of the successful boxers from Ohio that really does something. I want to make my mark in not just Ohio boxing but boxing period.

 

“This isn’t the toughest fight of my career but it’s the toughest challenge, going up against a young, undefeated guy. All my fights have been tough so I’m used to it.

 

“I’m excited to be on such a big card, but I am used to it now. The lights don’t get to me. PBC has been great for the sport because everyone can tune-in to these fights.”

 

ANTONIO TARVER JR.

 

“I’ve been training with the world champion Keith Thurman and I held my own in there. It’s been a great experience.

 

“It’s a beautiful thing to be fighting in my home state. I’m blessed to be fighting at the Sun Dome.

 

“My dad is always right in my ear. Always on me about the defense and protecting myself in the ring.

 

“I’m a southpaw who’s a fast hitter. I can hit hard and counter punch. I think of myself as the whole package.”

 

For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KeithFThurmanJr, @RealLuisCollazo, @WarriorsBoxingProm and @ESPNBoxing and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/premierboxingchampions

and www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo.
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FULL NIGHT OF UNDERCARD ACTION FEATURES EDNER CHERRY BATTLING LUIS CRUZ & ANTHONY PETERSON TAKING ON RAMESIS GIL FROM THE USF SUN DOME IN TAMPA ON SATURDAY, JULY 11

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Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN Is Headlined By Undefeated Star

Keith Thurman Taking on Luis Collazo &

Rising Star Tony Harrison Battling Willie Nelson

Coverage Begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

 

TAMPA (July 6, 2015) – An exciting night of undercard fights comes to the USF Sun Dome in Tampa on Saturday, July 11 featuring matchups between Edner Cherry (33-6-2, 18 KOs) fighting Luis Cruz (21-3, 16 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight battle and Anthony Peterson (34-1, 22 KOs) facing Ramesis Gil (8-11-5, 5 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight bout.

 

Televised coverage of Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with an explosive junior middleweight showdown between Tony Harrison (21-0, 18 KOs) and Willie Nelson (23-2-1, 13 KOs). The night is headlined by undefeated welterweight star Keith “One Time” Thurman (25-0, 21 KOs) facing former world champion Luis Collazo (26-6, 19 KOs). Door open at USF Sun Dome at 6 p.m. with the first fight beginning at 6:30 p.m.

 

The night of action will also feature Walter Castillo (25-3, 18 KOs) who takes on Amet Diaz (32-11, 23 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight attraction and undefeated prospectPatryk Syzmanski (13-0, 8 KOs) facing off against Maurice Louishomme (8-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight bout.

 

Also showcased will be the brother of world champion Gary Russell Jr., 22-year-old Washington, D.C. prospect Antonio Russell who takes on 23-year-old Puerto RicanJaxel Marrero in a six-round bantamweight attraction and the pro debut of Chicago’sBruno Brecidean as he faces 21-year-old Brad Sustad out of Orlando in a super welterweight tilt scheduled for four rounds.

 

Rounding out the scheduled fights are Antonio Tarver Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs), the 27-year-old out of Orlando and son of boxing superstar Antonio Tarver who takes on 29-year-oldJulian Valerio (2-3) of Orlando in a four round super welterweight bout and undefeated 28-year-old super welterweight Manny Woods (13-3-1, 5 KOs) out of St. Petersburg who takes on 26-year-old Puerto Rican Carlos Garcia (7-14-1, 7 KOs)

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, are priced at $200, $150, $75, $50 and $25, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the Sun Dome box office.

 

An experienced fighter who has made appearances in the ring for over a decade as a professional, the 32-year-old Cherry will make his 2015 debut on July 11 in Tampa. Owner of victories over Vicente Escobedo, Monta Meza Clay and Wes Ferguson, Cherry was born in the Bahamas but now fights out of Wauchula, Florida. He takes on the 29-year-old Puerto Rican Cruz.

 

The brother of former world champion Lamont Peterson, the 30-year-old Peterson hopes to soon make a name for himself on the big stage. Owner of wins over Daniel Attah, Dominic Salcido and Marcos Leonardo Jimenez, the Washington, D.C. product is looking to win his fifth consecutive fight on July 11. He faces the 32-year-old Gil out of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

 

The 26-year-old Castillo is an exciting brawler who never takes a step back and will look to put on a show for fans in Tampa. The Managua, Nicaragua-born knockout artist ended 12 of his first professional 14 victories inside of the distance. He will face 32-year-old former title challenger Diaz out of Panama City.

 

Miami-based fighter, Hernandez will be able to compete not far from his home when he hits the ring in Tampa on July 11. The 30-year-old will bring his straight ahead style up against the 22-year-old Tercero out of Mexico City.

 

Undefeated at just 22-years-old, Szymanski will look to build on his recent success on July 11. The Konin, Poland-born fighter made his 2015 debut in March with a second round TKO over Yoryi Estrella. He is set to face the 37-year-old Louishomme out of Colorado Springs.

 

For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KeithFThurmanJr, @RealLuisCollazo, @WarriorsBoxingProm and @ESPNBoxing and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/premierboxingchampions

and www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo.
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EIGHT FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT UNDEFEATED RISING STAR TONY HARRISON

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Harrison Fights Willie Nelson On Premier Boxing Champions On ESPN

Saturday, July 11 From The USF Sun Dome In Tampa

Headlined By Undefeated Star Keith Thurman Facing Luis Collazo

 

DETROIT (June 30, 2015) – Undefeated rising star Tony Harrison (21-0, 18 KOs) is set for his Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN showdown against Willie Nelson (23-2-1, 13 KOs) taking place Saturday, July 11 from the USF Sun Dome in Tampa and will look to make an impression in his first PBC start.

 

Harrison’s fight will mark the very first PBC on ESPN bout and will precede the evening’s main event featuring undefeated welterweight world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman (25-0, 21 KOs) battling former world champion Luis Collazo (36-6, 19 KOs) on ESPN, with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, are priced at $200, $150, $75, $50 and $25, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the Sun Dome box office.

Before Harrison enters the ring, learn more about the Detroit native and future star and what has gotten him to this point in his own words.

 

Harrison has boxing in his family…

Not only is his father Ali Salaam a former professional welterweight, but his grandfather is former heavyweight contender Henry Hank. Harrison is trained by his father and is in the gym with him everyday.

 

“It’s a father-son relationship. We have our ups and our downs, but nobody has my well being in mind more than my father.”

 

However, it was Harrison’s mother who encouraged him to start boxing….

Harrison was frequently suspended from school for fighting and while his parents encouraged him to stand up for himself, his mother saw a potentially dangerous path forming. She was able to convince him his father to take Harrison to the gym.

 

“My dad didn’t want me to box but my mom got tired of seeing me get suspended. She told my dad to put me in the gym. My mom knew about boxing from him and said to take me to the gym and we never looked back.”

 

Harrison was the second youngest of eight kids growing up…

He was the second youngest of his three brothers and four sisters. He’s closest to his older brother Lloyd, 26, who still wraps his hands.

 

“I was the test dummy for everything that was supposed to be tested out. I got the clothes second hand. I was young so I was the dummy. When wrestling came on, my older brother would do the ‘Rock Bottom’ on me and I would just get up and smile. All this stuff made me tougher.”

 

His cousin is future NFL Hall of Famer Antonio Gates, who he teams up with for his greatest passion outside boxing…

Harrison’s greatest joy outside of the ring comes from the team of youth football players he coaches for a team sponsored by Antonio Gates. Every day after training Harrison coaches the Michigan Bulldogs of the Advanced Youth Football League. They haven’t lost a game in three years.

 

“My heart belongs to the kids. Every day I go out and work with those kids. Next year, they’ll move up to an older team and I’m going to miss them like crazy. If I wasn’t boxing, I wouldn’t do anything but be with those kids every day.”

 

Born in Detroit, he hopes to raise the prominence of Detroit boxing nationwide…

The Detroit-native has fought seven times in his home city as a pro, most recently in May 2014.

 

“I feel like Detroit is still a hotbed for boxing. The publicity just hasn’t been there. People aren’t coming to Detroit like they used to and they don’t get the same opportunities. No one is out here on the forefront. There’s the same talent and caliber of fighters, it just takes somebody to open up the door so that the big names and big companies come back to the city.”

 

He was managed by the legendary Emanuel Steward and has trained at the famed Kronk Gym…

Harrison was managed by Steward but considered him more of a mentor and friend. While at Kronk he sparred with top fighters such as Cornelius Bundrage, Andy Lee, Dominique Dolton, Chad Dawson and Luis Collazo.

 

“Emanuel was more than my manager, he was my friend. He did a little bit of everything. He took care of me. I would go on walks with him and I believed in him. He has a special place in my heart.”

 

He is prepared for the step up in competition against Willie Nelson…

Harrison will no doubt be facing the toughest opponent of his career so far on July 11 when he battles the experienced and dangerous Nelson.

 

“I know Willie Nelson is a tough guy. He breathes the same air I breathe from this region and that comes with a lot of heart. Ohio has always had some of the top amateurs in the country and he comes from that area. His losses came against top competition. He’s a real dangerous fighter to fight.”

 

He relishes fighting in the first PBC on ESPN bout…

Harrison is fully aware that July 11 is a major opportunity for him. One that will further his goals of remaining undefeated and eventually becoming a world champion.

 

“I’m the kind of guy to be the first fighter to do something [in the first PBC on ESPN bout]. If you want to try something out for the first time, I’m that guy. My brothers did it my whole life. If you want to make history, you call me. That’s the kind of person I am. I feel like I’m Mr. ESPN. I’m the kind of guy who makes history. I’m going to do it in impressive fashion. I think you’re going to see the best Tony Harrison you’ve ever seen. I’m coming to put on a show. It’s going to be drama.”

 

For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KeithFThurmanJr, @RealLuisCollazo, @WarriorsBoxingProm and @ESPNBoxing and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/premierboxingchampions

and www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo.
boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

WORLD CHAMPION KEITH THURMAN READY FOR JULY 11 PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN FIGHT

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Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman & Chief Trainer Dan Birmingham

 “One Time” Poised for Hometown Fight at Tampa’s Sun Dome at University of South Florida

@keithfthurmanJr: “I Am An Evolutionary Boxer Revolutionizing the Sport…”

TAMPA, FL – June 29, 2015 – Undefeated Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman (25-0, 21 KOs) is ready for his July 11 Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on ESPN fight, the first PBC fight on ESPN. Thurman will meet former world champion Luis Collazo (33-6, 19 KOs) on ESPN at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live from the USF Sun Dome in Tampa.

The 26-year-old Thurman, who kicked off the inaugural PBC card with a unanimous decision victory over Robert Guerrero, believes he is the best 147-pound boxer in the world.

“I am an evolutionary boxer,” Thurman said. “I change and grow with every camp, every fight, I am here to retain my title and become the undisputed, true welterweight champ.”

One of the sport’s hardest-hitting and most diverse fighters, Thurman trains out of St. Petersburg, FL under the tutelage of esteemed chief trainer Dan Birmingham at his St. Pete’s Boxing Club. Birmingham is a two-time Boxing Writers Association of America “Trainer of the Year” and is a Florida Boxing Hall of Fame inductee. He started working with Thurman when he was 15, having worked with longtime coach and mentor Ben Getty. Birmingham became Thurman’s chief trainer when Ben passed away in 2009. Thurman’s team consists of Birmingham, assistant trainer Chris Getty, physical therapist Eric Wilson and cutman Carlos Vargas.

“Keith continues to exemplify the dedication and expertise needed in this sport to not only become and stay world champion, but to truly showcase the science of boxing to fans across the globe,” Birmingham said. “He’s added some new dimensions to his training, including indoor rock climbing as well as his normal high-intensity gym workout. He is fit, focused and as always, ready to get into the ring.”

Team Thurman Assistant Trainer Chris Getty and Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman

 

Photo credit: Premier Boxing Champions

Link to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UC1bNdqAC5s

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, are priced at $200, $150, $75, $50 and $25, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and go on sale Saturday, June 6 at 10 a.m. ET. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the Sun Dome box office.

www.premierboxingchampions.com; www.facebook.com/premierboxing, https://twitter.com/premierboxing, https://instagram.com/premierboxingchamps/

twitter.com/keithfthurmanjr, https://instagram.com/keithonetimethurman, www.facebook.com/keithonetimethurman
boxing, ESPN Boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

UNDEFEATED SUPERSTAR KEITH THURMAN RETURNS HOME TO BATTLE FORMER WORLD CHAMPION LUIS COLLAZO IN INAUGURAL

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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN EVENT, SATURDAY, JULY 11 FROM USF SUN DOME IN TAMPA, FLORIDA

 

Plus Undefeated Prospect Tony Harrison Takes On Willie Nelson

 

Tickets On Sale Saturday At 10 A.M.!

 

TAMPA (June 4, 2015) – Undefeated superstar Keith “One Time” Thurman (25-0, 21 KOs) returns to the ring in his home state to face former world champion Luis Collazo(36-6, 19 KOs) on Saturday, July 11 in the main event of the inaugural Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN show live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from the USF Sun Dome in Tampa.

 

The co-main event of the evening features an exciting matchup between undefeated top prospect Tony Harrison (21-0, 18 KOs) and quick fisted Willie Nelson (23-2-1, 13 KOs) in an event that will kick off live coverage of PBC on ESPN. Doors open in the arena at 6 p.m. ET with the first fight starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, are priced at $200, $150, $75, $50 and $25, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and go on saleSaturday, June 6 at 10 a.m. ET. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the Sun Dome box office.

 

Thurman has consistently shown his tremendous power by knocking out 18 of his first 19 opponents and since winning a world title in 2013, he has ascended to the very top of the sport’s elite class. The 26-year-old Clearwater, Florida native made three successful title defenses with wins over Jesus Soto Karass, Julio Diaz and Leonard Bundu. In his next bout he debuted the Premier Boxing Champions series by defeating Robert Guerrero in a spectacular battle on March 7.  Next up on July 11, Thurman will return to the ring in his home state of Florida for the first time since 2009.

 

One of Brooklyn’s most respected fighters, Collazo has earned another shot at the top of the welterweight division on July 11.  In April of this year, Collazo made a statement with a second round TKO of  Christopher Degollado at Barclays Center. A world champion in 2005, Collazo has faced top fighters his whole career. Most notably in recent years, he delivered an electrifying second round knockout over Victor Ortiz in Dec. 2014. Collazo will look to use his experience and guile to upset Thurman on the road on July 11.

 

At just 24-years-old, Harrison has made big noise recently as he brings a 10 knockout win streak to his fight on July 11. The Detroit-native has gotten off to a blazing start in 2015, already knocking out Antwone Smith and Pablo Munguia in impressive fashion. The supremely talented fighter now steps up in competition and hopes to keep his undefeated record intact when he faces Nelson.

 

A professional since 2006, Nelson has the tools and experience to give Harrison more than just a tough test. The 28-year-old owns victories over previously unbeaten fighters John Jackson and Yudel Johnson plus experienced veterans Luciano Cuello, Michael Medina. The fighter out of Cleveland is coming off of a narrow defeat against top contender Vanes Martirosyan in Oct. 2014.

 

For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KeithFThurmanJr, @RealLuisCollazo, @WarriorsBoxingProm and @ESPNBoxing and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing and www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo.
boxing, ESPN Friday Night Fights

RESULTS FROM MOHEGAN SUN

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Undefeated junior middleweight  
Tony Harrison rolls to 21st win

 

Aquino shocks Kielczweski,

Farmer wins 11th straight fight

Tony Harrison (L) was too much for Pablo Munguia

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (April 17, 2015) – Undefeated junior middleweight Tony Harrison rolled to his 21st straight victory in tonight’s ESPN Friday Night Fights main event, presented by DiBella Entertainment in association with New Legend Boxing, at Mohegan Sun Arena.

 

Harrison (21-0, 18 KOs), fighting out of Detroit, dropped Pablo Munguia (20-7, 11 KOs) at the end of the second round with a powerful punch. Munguia was examined between rounds by the ring doctor. Referee Arthur Mercante needed only 11 seconds into the next round to determine that the Mexican was unable to be competitive, awarding Harrison a victory by technical knockout.

 

“I’m looking for whoever Al Haymon puts me in with,” 24-year-old Harrison remarked. “I’m from Detroit. I’ve never said ‘no’ to an opponent I was offered, which says a lot about me. We have a lot of heart in Detroit. I’m ready for a big fight. I got him with a step-back overhand right. I wish they had let it go a little longer. I wanted to finish him, but the bell went off.”

 
Danny Aquino (L) and Ryan Kielczweski put on a real show

 

Connecticut fan favorite, Mexican-born Danny Aquino (17-2, 10 KOs), upset previously undefeated Massachusetts featherweight Ryan “The Polish Prince” Kielczweski (22-1, 6 KOs) by way of an eight-round split decision in an entertaining co-feature event for New England bragging rights. The aggressive-fighting Aquino kept coming forward throughout the fight, as Kielczweski effectively counter-punched. Neither fighter was remotely hurt in the action-packed clash of gifted boxers.

 

Aquino defeated Kielczweski the one time they fought in the amateurs. “Because of his record,” Aquino commented, “this was the biggest win of my career. It was extra special winning my first ESPN fight, too. I think my aggressiveness was the difference. He was moving around and I had to keep putting pressure on him to make it my fight, not his fight. I hope this fight will give me opportunities and I’ll take the best.”

 

“It was definitely a tough fight,” Kielczweski noted. “Making weight definitely took a lot out of me. I think I boxed well, landed the harder shots and blocked most of his. I guess the judges likes his aggression, but I thought I won the fight.”

 
Tevin Farmer (R) won his 11th fight in a row

In the opening televised bout, Philadelphia junior lightweight Tevin “American Idol” Farmer (19-4-1, 4 KOs) won his 11th straight fight, winning a unanimous eight-round decision over previously unbeaten Angel “El Gato” Luna (10-1-1, 6 KOs), of Brooklyn, in a very competitive fight.

 

“I feel great,” Farmer said after the fight. “That’s exactly what I wanted to show. I wanted to show a lot of different dimensions. TV wants guys who can punch and box, the total package, and I showed that tonight. I feel that I’m ready for a top 10 contender and showed tonight that I belong among the best.”

 

Ghanaian southpaw Lennox “2 Sharpe” Allen (19-0-1, 12 KOs), fighting out of New York City, overcame a flash knockdown at the end of round six to knock out a gamePaul Gonsalves (7-7-1, 3 KOs) in the following round. Allen connected with a straight left hand punch that landed flush on the Cape Cod light heavyweight’s chin.

 

Unbeaten middleweight Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (15-0-1, 5 KOs), fighting out of Maryland, outclassed Dominican invader Franklin Gonzalez (16-14, 10 KOs) on his way to a second-round technical knockout, trapping his opponent against the ropes and unloaded a barrage of unanswered punches until referee Harvey Dock halted the action.

 

Exciting Houston welterweight Regis “Rougarou” Prograis ran his record to 14-0 (12 KOs), stopping Abraham “Swift” Alvarez (19-8-1, 9 KOs) at the 1:28 mark of the opening round. The promising southpaw prospect put his Mexican opponent down with a viscous, straight left to the body.

 

Former U. of New Haven basketball star Cassius Chaney (1-0, 1 KO) had a successful professional debut, pounding Perry Filkins (0-2) until referee Danny Sciavone stopped the fight 41 seconds into the second round.

 

Unbeaten Florida lightweight Amos “2 Smooth” Cowart used a body attack to stop previously unbeaten Anthony Burgin (8-1, 1 KO), of Philadelphia, in the fifth round.

 

Pictures by Ed Diller / DiBella Entertainment

 

 

COMPLETE RESULTS

(winner listed first each fight)

 

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Cassius Chaney (1-0, 1 KO), Philadelphia, PA                               

WTKO2 (0:31)

Perry Filkins (0-2), Hooksett, NH

 

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

Lennox Allen (19-0-1, 11 KOs), New York, NY

WTKO7 (1:45)

Paul Gonsalves (7-7-1, 3 KOs). Harwich, MA

 

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Alantez Fox (15-0-1, 5 KOs) Forestville, MD

WTKO2 (2:39)

Franklin Gonzalez (16-14, 10 KOs), Santo Domingo, D.R.

 

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Tony Harrison (21-0, 18 KOs), Detroit, MI                               

WTKO3 (0:11)

Pablo Munguia (20-7, 11 KOs), Distrito Federal, Mexico

 

WELTERWEIGHTS

Regis Prograis (14-0, 12 KOs), Houston, TX

WYKO1 (1:28)

Abraham Alvarez (19-8-1, 9 KOs), Rosario, Sinaloa, Mexico

 

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Amos Cowart (11-0-1, 9 KOs), Groveland, FL

WKO5 (1:28)

Anthony Burgin (8-1, 1 KO), Philadelphia, PA

 

JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS

Tevin Farmer (19-4-1, 4 KOs), Philadelphia, PA                               

WDEC8 (87-82, 87-82, 79-73)

Angel Luna (10-1-1, 6 KOs), Brooklyn, NY

 

FEATHERWEIGHTS

Danny Aquino (17-2, 10 KOs), Meriden, CT

WDEC8 (78-74, 78-74, 74-78)

Ryan Kielczweski (22-1, 6 KOs), Quincy, MA
boxing, ESPN Friday Night Fights

WEIGHTS FROM MOHEGAN SUN  

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UNCASVILLE, Conn. (April 16, 2015) — The official weight-in was held today for tomorrow night’s ESPN Friday Night Fights Triple-Header, presented by DiBella Entertainment, in Mohegan Sun Arena.

Live coverage of tomorrow’s ESPN Friday Night Fights tripleheader from Mohegan Sun Arena begins at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and will also be available through WatchESPN on computers, smartphones, tablets, Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, Xbox 360 and Xbox One via an affiliated video provider. ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates will also carry the three fights live on broadband Spanish-language ESPN Deportes+.

The telecast opens with Tevin “American Idol” Farmer taking on Angel “El Gato” Luna in a scheduled 8-round contest in the junior lightweight division.

Farmer vs. Luna will be followed by an 8-round featherweight showdown matching undefeated Ryan “The Polish Prince” Kielczweski against Danny Aquino.

The main event pits undefeated junior middleweight prospect Tony Harrison against Pablo “Supurlturero” Munguia in a 10-round title bout.

Below find fighter weights and pictures by Ed Diller / DiBella Entertainment.

(L-R) Tony Harrison & Pablo Munguia

 

Main Event – Junior Middleweights (10) – ESPN2

TONY HARRISON (20-0, 17 KOs), Detroit, MI 154 ½ LBS.

PABLO “Supurlturero” MUNGUIA (20-6, 11 KOs), Distrito Federal, Mexico 153 LBS.

 

(L-R) Ryan Kielczewski & Danny Aquino

 

Co-Feature – Featherweights (8) – ESPN2

RYAN “The Polish Prince” KIELCZWESKI (22-0, 6 KOs), Quincy, MA 123 ½ LBS.

DANNY AQUINO (16-2, 10 KOs), Meriden, CT 123 ½ LBS.

 

(L-R) Tevin Farmer & Angel Luna

 

Junior Lightweights (8) – ESPN2

TEVIN “American Idol” FARMER (18-4-1, 4 KOs), Philadelphia, PA 130 LBS.

ANGEL “El Gato” LUNA (10-0-1, 6 KOs), Brooklyn, NY 128 ¼ LBS.

 

Light Heavyweights (8)

LENNOX “2 Sharpe” ALLEN (18-0-1, 11 KOs), New York, NY 169 LBS.

PAUL GONSALVES (7-6-1, 3 KOs). Harwich, MA 170 LBS.

 

Middleweights (8)

ALANTEZ “SlyAza” FOX (14-0-1, 4 KOs) Forestville, MD 158 ¼ LBS.

FRANKLIN GONZALEZ (16-13, 10 KOs), Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic 161 ¼ LBS.

 

Welterweights (6)

REGIS PROGRAIS (13-0, 11 KOs), Houston, TX 143 ½ LBS.

ABRAHAM “The Swift” ALVAREZ (19-7-1, 9 KOs), Rosario, Sinaloa, Mexico 142 LBS.

 

Lightweights (6)

AMOS “2 Smooth” COWART (10-0-1, 8 KOs), Groveland, FL 134 ½ LBS.

ANTHONY BURGIN (8-1, 1 KO), Philadelphia, PA 134 LBS.

 

Heavyweights (4)

CASSIUS CHANEY (pro debut), Philadelphia, PA 245 ¼ LBS.

PERRY FILKINS (0-1), Hooksett, NH (weigh in tomorrow)

 

WHEN:             Friday, April 17, 2015

WHERE:           Mohegan Sun Arena

 

PROMOTER:   DiBella Entertainment in association with New Legend Boxing

 

TELEVISION:   ESPN2 starting at 10:00 p.m. ET

 

TICKETS:         $100.00, $70.00 and $30.00 (subject to additional fees) on sale and available to purchase at the Mohegan Sun Box Office, by visiting www.mohegansun.com, or calling Ticketmaster at1-800-745-3000

 

INFORMATION: www.dbe1.com, www.espn.com/boxing, or www.mohegansun.com

DOORS OPEN: 6:30 p.m. ET,    FIRST BOUT: 7:30 p.m. ET