Tag Archives: WBA

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UN-TELEVISED UNDERCARD OF JUNE 22 ‘SHIELDS VS. GABRIELS’ EVENT STACKED WITH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL TALENT

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SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Live At 10 p.m. ET/PT
From Masonic Temple in Detroit, Mich.; Tickets on Sale Now
Eyubov to Face Givhan; Idigov vs. Ballard; O’Quinn vs. Kareem
Franchon Crews Dezurn Returns; Russian Heavyweight Apti Davtaev in Action
Leon Lawson III & Joseph Bonas also Scheduled

 

The un-televised undercard of the “Shields vs. Gabriels” event on Friday, June 22, at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, is stacked with great fights between local and international prospects.

 

 

 

Salita Promotions has put together several strong match-ups in addition to the nationally televised SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT) portion of the show, which features two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and current Unified Women’s Super-Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields (5-0, 2 KOs) taking on unified 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Women’s Middleweight World Championships.

 

 

 

Topping the off-TV action will be worldwide fan favorite Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) of Aktjubinsk, Kazakhstan, taking on Nicholas “King Beamen” Givhan (21-1-1, 11 KOs) of nearby Kalamazoo, Michigan, in a 10-rounder for the USBA Great Lakes Region Welterweight Championship

 

 

 

The action will further heat up with a 10-round light heavyweight showdown between Grozny, Russia’s Aslambek Idigov (12-0, 5 KOs) and Detroit’s own James “The Equalizer” Ballard (10-1, 3 KOs).

 

 

 

Detroit bantamweight favorite Ja’Rico “Great Lakes King” O’Quinn (8-0-1, 5 KOs) will bring his monstrous legion of fans in to watch him go eight rounds for the first time while taking on West Bloomfield, Michigan, veteran Yaqub Kareem (14-9-1, 8 KOs).

 

 

 

The sensational Franchon Crews Dezurn (3-1, 1 KO) of Baltimore will put on a six-round showcase against Ohio’s Crystal Byers; and in an eight-round heavyweight match-up,

Kurchaloi, Russia’s Apti Davtaev (14-0-1, 13 KOs) will attempt to continue his tear through the big man’s division against Catlettsburg, Kentucky, veteran Cory Phelps (16-10-1, 8 KOs).

 

 

 

Appearing in match-ups that are still being made, “Lethal” Leon Lawson (6-0, 4 KOs) of Flint will fight in a super welterweight six-rounder and Detroit’s undefeated Joseph Bonas (3-0, 3 KOs) will go four welterweight rounds. Both opponents are currently TBD.

 

 

 

 

 

Also on Showtime, Unified Women’s Middleweight Champion Christina Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) of Germany defends her WBC & WBO Titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs) and in the 10-round opener, Russia’s Umar Salamov (20-1, 15 KOs) will face Georgia’s Brian Howard (13-1, 10 KOs) for the IBF North American Light Heavyweight Championship.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

‘BULL VS. MATADOR’ MATCH-UP OF SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECTS BAKHTIYAR EYUBOV VS. NICHOLAS GIVHAN ADDED TO UNDERCARD OF CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. HANNA GABRIELS IBF & WBA WOMEN’S MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

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SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Live At 10 p.m. ET/PT
From Masonic Temple in Detroit, Mich.; Tickets on Sale Now

Another exciting battle between well-regarded prospects has been added to the un-televised undercard of Salita Promotions’ “Shields vs. Gabriels” event on Friday, June 22, at the Masonic Temple in Detroit.

 

 

 

In a classic “bull vs. matador” match-up, Kalamazoo, Michigan’s Nicholas “King Beamen” Givhan (21-1-1, 11 KOs) will face undefeated Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs), from Aktjubinsk, Kazakhstan, over 10 exciting super-lightweight rounds.

 

 

 

A six-year pro, Nicholas Givhan has had mixed results, thus far, against stronger opposition. He fought to a draw with France’s 8-1 Freddy Durand in August 2015 and suffered his lone setback against undefeated top contender Ivan Baranchyk in March 2016. Givhan has won five straight fights since then and was last seen scoring a unanimous decision over rugged veteran Agustin Cicero last February. Givhan is a smooth boxer with good instincts in the ring. The 32-year-old stands 5’ 9” and has a 68” reach.

 

 

 

“Training is going great. I’m putting the work in and prepping for the big fight,” said Givhan. “I’m a very good boxer and I’m looking forward to showing off my craft with no mistakes.”

 

 

 

Givhan says he respects Eyubov, but is confident of coming out on top.

 

 

 

“I would say he’s the toughest opponent I’ve faced so far. He comes and keeps coming and coming. He’s a very in-tight fighter and has nice power. It’s hard to say how the fight will go. Real fighters adapt to any style, so I can’t say if his style is made for mine. I just know that whatever he brings, I’ll be able to adapt.”

 

 

 

A six-year pro, Brooklyn-based Eyubov is originally from Aktjubinsk, Kazakhstan. A charismatic showman, Eyubov is a fast-rising prospect who has appeared twice on ShoBox: The New Generation. He stopped then 16-2-1 Jared Robinson in three rounds in January 2016 and took an exciting 10-round split decision from veteran Karim Mayfield in August of the same year. He was last seen in January, when an accidental headbutt forced opponent Maurice Chalmers to quit in round one. The fight was ruled a No Contest. The 31-year-old stands 5’ 6” and has a 65.5” reach.

 

 

 

“I look forward to a great fight on June 22. I am the best junior welterweight in the world – a point I will prove it in this fight,” said Eyubov. “I will show my improved skills, strength and power in the ring. I had a great training camp in Brooklyn, New York, with my trainers Nirmal Lorick and Keith Hewitt. This is a very important fight for me I plan on making a statement and showing the world that I am the best and hardest punching man in the division.”

 

 

 

Eyubov says he’ll be looking for another knockout on June 22.

 

 

 

“I know Givhan is a strong fighter and is in great shape and coming to win. The fight is in his hometown but that’s no problem. My plan is not to leave it to the judges June 22nd can’t come soon enough!”

 

 

 

“This is a significant crossroads fight with each fighter understanding the upside of victory and the doom of defeat,” said event promoter Dmitriy Salita. I know Bakha is hungrier than ever to win this fight and make a statement to the junior welterweight division that he is ready for the best. This match has all the ingredients of a great fight.”

 

 

 

“Shields vs. Gabriels” will feature two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and current Unified Women’s Super Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields attempting to become a two-division world champion against unified 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Women’s Middleweight World Championships.

 

 

 

The main event will be televised live on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT) and will also feature highlights of Unified Women’s Middleweight Champion Christina Hammer as she defends her WBC & WBO Titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

CLARESSA SHIELDS TRAINING CAMP NOTES

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TWO-TIME OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST CLARESSA SHIELDS PREPARES TO FACE FELLOW UNIFIED CHAMPION HANNA GABRIELS FRIDAY, JUNE 22 ON SHOWTIME

 

Flint Native Shields Attempting to Become Two-Division Champion On SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION

 

Tickets on Sale for Event at Ticketmaster and Masonic Temple in Detroit

 

Click HERE for photos; Credit Salita Promotions/Terrell Groggins

 

Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields is deep in preparation for her attempt to become a two-division world champion when she faces fellow unified champion Hanna Gabriels at Masonic Temple in Detroit on Friday, June 22.

 

 

 

Shields, a unified champion at 168 pounds, and Gabriels, a unified titlist at 154 pounds, will meet for the vacant IBF and WBA Middleweight World Championships on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME.

 

 

 

A native of Flint, Mich., Shields (5-0, 2 KOs) was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic Gold Medals. The 23-year-old turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight. Shields now begins her first camp with renowned trainer John David Jackson as she attempts to become a two-division champion.

 

 

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION will also feature extensive highlights of unified women’s middleweight champion Christina Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) as she defends her WBC & WBO titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs).  If both Shields and Hammer are victorious in their 160-pound bouts on June 22, they will meet in a fall blockbuster on SHOWTIME to determine the undisputed women’s middleweight world champion.

 

 

 

How has training camp been so far?

“Training camp has been great. It’s been fun and I’ve been working my butt off. I can’t wait to step in the ring with another champion and make history by winning the world title in my second weight division!”

 

What can fans expect from you on June 22?

“The fans can expect for me to fight like I’m Okoye from Wakanda! I’ve never been more motivated, more ready, and more able to take on the challenges and achieve my goals. I want to fight the best, and I want to be the best ever. I will give everything onJune 22 against Hanna Gabriels to win a world title in my second weight division, then I want Christina Hammer, so we can unify all the middleweight belts, and then my sights will be on getting to the 154-pound world title.”

 

 

 

What are some of your future goals in boxing?  

“I want to lift women’s boxing for all the women past, present and future. I want equality for women and men in boxing. I want to be recognized as one of the pound-for-pound best in the sport among both men and women, no gender labels. And I want to be known as the best female boxer ever. I’m ready. Come to Detroit on June 22 and see me live, watch me on SHOWTIME, and join the team as we make history!”

 

 

What have you learned training with John David Jackson?
“Coach John is very knowledgeable, he’s been working with me on my patience. He admires the beast inside of me, but just wants me to control it more and be smart. He’s been to the biggest battles with some great world champions, and I’m glad to have his experience and knowledge on my team.”

 

What is your typical day like in camp?
“A typical day in camp can go according to either of two plans. Plan 1 is I wake up at 9 am, make myself a small breakfast (2 boiled eggs, 2 pieces of turkey bacon and some steamed asparagus) or a fruit smoothie. At 11 am I’m at the gym training. By1:30 pm, I’m at the gym. My workout usually consists of bag drills, mitt work, shadow boxing, jumping rope, speed bag and ring drills. Then I either swim or run at 6 pm the same day. On the days I do Plan 2, I still wake at 9 am and have my breakfast and then 11 am-1:30 pm, I’m in the gym. But right after that, I do strength and conditioning, which consists of box jumps, dumb bell squats, some drills with weights for my upper body, or a four-mile run.”

 

Have you made any changes to your training and nutrition for your first fight at middleweight?
“Right after my fight with Tori Nelson, I knew I would be fighting next at middleweight, so I stayed in the gym three times a week until Mark (Taffet) told me we secured June 22 on SHOWTIME against Hanna Gabriels. But to properly make middleweight, I had to learn about my body some more. Losing weight is more about a routine than it is about eating less food. The good thing for me is that I like healthy food – my body and mind feel best when I eat that way. The only difference in camp is I eat smaller portions of the food I like and drink a lot more water. This camp I’ve been heavy on fish, all kinds of fish from cod, salmon, Atlantic salmon — with sides of asparagus, sweet potatoes, rice or spinach. And body clock is important, so no eating after 7 pm. I’m feeling great and will be in the best shape of my life when I get in that ring on June 22.”

 

 

Who are your sparring partners?

“So far, I’ve sparred with Matt Korobov and Daniyar Yelluisar. I love to spar with men – I find that the strength and speed helps me get the most out of the sparring.”

 

What have you done differently in preparation for this fight?

“Well I always say this, but I don’t get ready to face my opponents – my trainer John David Jackson focuses more on the opponent than I do. I just get prepared to be the best version of me. I’ve seen film of Hannah and I’m not impressed – I know she’s a champion and I respect that, but I’ve never seen a woman who can stay in the ring with me. It’ll take two of her to even have a chance at beating me.”

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CROSSROADS BATTLE OF PROSPECTS ASLAMBEK IDIGOV VS. JAMES BALLARD ADDED TO UNDERCARD OF CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. HANNA GABRIELS IBF & WBA WOMEN’S MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

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SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Live At 10 p.m. ET/PT
From Masonic Temple in Detroit, Mich.; Tickets On Sale Now

The Salita Promotions professional boxing event on Friday, June 22, at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, is heating up even more with the announcement of an intriguing match-up of promising light heavyweight prospects with local ties.

 

 

 

In a fight with explosive action written all over it, Detroit’s own James “The Equalizer” Ballard (10-1, 3 KOs) will face undefeated Aslambek Idigov (12-0, 5 KOs), from Detroit via Grozny, Russia, over 10 exciting rounds.

 

 

 

Fighting mostly in his home city, the 28-year-old Ballard has become a fan favorite for his fearlessly aggressive style. Ballard says he refuses to lose on his home turf of Detroit.

 

 

 

“Expect a war,” said Ballard. “I will go out there and give the fans what they want by going toe-to-toe. I am coming for Idigov’s O. I’m not going to be out-boxed in my hometown. It’s a respect thing. It’s going to be a long night for him. We are training hard and ready to go hard every round if it takes that long. June 22 can’t get here soon enough. I’m more than ready to send Russia back home.”

 

 

 

A compact puncher with pinpoint accuracy, Idigov has fan favorite written all over his muscular frame. Since he began training in Detroit’s famed Kronk Gym, Idigov says he’s learning to fight the American way.

 

 

 

“Training at the Kronk Boxing Gym in Detroit has been a great experience for me and I learn a lot and get better every day. I love their philosophy that the best win is a knockout!

James Ballard is a very good fighter. I have no problem fighting him and winning in his hometown, which is becoming my second home as well. Let’s get it on!”

 

 

 

“This is a classic, crossroads fight between two talented and hungry prospects,” said event promoter Dmitriy Salita. “This is a ‘pick em’ type of match that will bring excitement to fans in the championship City of Detroit!”

 

 

 

The skillful pair will duel as part of the untelevised undercard of the blockbuster “It’s Our Time to Shine” event featuring two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and current Unified Women’s Super Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields attempting to become a two-division world champion against unified 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Women’s Middleweight World Championships.

 

 

 

The main event will be televised live on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT) and will also feature highlights of Unified Women’s Middleweight Champion Christina Hammer as she defends her WBC & WBO Titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

CHRISTINA HAMMER TRAINING CAMP NOTES

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WOMEN’S WBC & WBO MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION TO MAKE U.S. DEBUT IN TOUGH DEFENSE AGAINST FORMER CHAMPION TORI NELSON ON FRIDAY, JUNE 22
Tickets on Sale For Event At Masonic Temple in Detroit Headlined By Two-Time Gold Medalist Claressa Shield’s Attempt To Become A Two-Division World Champion

Unified Women’s WBC and WBO Middleweight Champion Christina Hammer has taken to the mountains of Austria for this leg of her intense training camp.

 

 

 

Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) will make her U.S. fighting debut while defending her titles against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs) on Friday, June 22. The bout will serve as a supporting bout to two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and unified women’s super-middleweight champion Claressa Shields’ attempt to become a two-division world champion against unified women’s 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels at Masonic Temple in Detroit, Mich.

 

 

 

Shields vs Gabriels will be contested for the vacant IBF and WBA Middleweight World Championships and telecast on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME. Extensive highlights of Hammer vs. Nelson will also be shown.

 

 

 

Hammer, of Dortmund, Germany, has dominated the women’s middleweight division since 2010. The 27-year-old says training at elevation in the mountains of Austria is bringing the best out of her.

 

 

 

How has training camp gone so far?

 

 

 

“My camp has gone well. We train three times a day and work hard to be in the best shape possible on June 22 in Detroit.”

 

 

 

Can you tell us about your current training location?

 

 

 

“We are in Austria, staying at a place in the mountains that is about 5000-feet elevation. It’s amazing here. The nature and the mountains inspire me and give me power. It’s very comfortable to do my roadwork and go to the boxing gym because everything is situated in a comfortable way.”

 

 

 

What is a typical day like at training camp? 

 

 

 

“We’ve been in Austria for the last 10 days. At 7:30 am, we start the first interval runs. At 9 am, I have breakfast and at 11 am, we go up to the mountains to our gym (which is at 6500 feet high) to do my strength and conditioning work. Later, in the afternoon, we start our boxing work. The nature and beautiful surroundings give me peace of mind.”

 

 

 

How and why is your training camp built into different stages?

 

 

 

“The mountains are perfect to prepare for the fight. You are away from your hometown stay more focused on training. The air is thin and this high level of elevation gives your body a higher level of conditioning. On June 10, we will move on to our next stage of training, which will take place in the United States. That will be to help acclimate me to the new time and climate for fight night on June 22, which is when I will put all of this hard work together and have it pay off in a big way.”

 

 

 

Who is your head trainer?

 

 

 

“My coach is Dimitrie Kirnos. I started my professional career with him. He himself was Soviet Union Boxing Champion and trained many top champions. He is old school and pushes my mind and body to the limit. He is a big part of my team we have a great bond. I have much respect and admiration for him.”

 

 

 

Have you done anything different preparing for this fight?

 

 

 

“I spar with lots of shorter fighters, like Tori Nelson. I guarantee that it will be much more explosive and impressive than Claressa Shields was against her.”

 

 

 

American fans love knockouts. Can they expect a Christina Hammer KO on June 22?

 

 

 

“That’s why I train hard and give everything in the gym. I want to be amazing that night and a knockout would be a perfect ending.”

 

 

 

What is your prediction for June 22?

 

 

 

“I will show my power and skills. People will see who the real unified Middleweight Champion of the world is. My performance will speak for itself!”

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35. 

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

The makers of 5-hour ENERGY® shots Sign on as a Principle Sponsor of Claressa Shields vs. Hanna Gabriels Women’s Middleweight World Championship Fight on Friday, June 22 Live on SHOWTIME®

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Salita Promotions proudly announces that Living Essentials, LLC, the makers of 5-hour ENERGY®, the energy shot for hard-working people, has signed on as a principle sponsor of the upcoming “It’s Our Time to Shine” professional boxing event on Friday, June 22, at Masonic Temple in Detroit, Michigan.

 

 

 

Featuring two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and unified women’s super middleweight Champion Claressa Shields attempting to become a two-division world champion against unified 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels, “It’s our Time to Shine” will be televised live on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT). The two champions will be contesting for the vacant IBF and WBA Middleweight World Championships.

 

 

 

“I am delighted that the makers of 5-hour ENERGY® shots are supporting the historic world championship event taking place in Detroit,” said Salita Promotions Founder, Dmitriy Salita. ‘It’s Our Time to Shine’ will be an exciting night of professional boxing from beginning to end and I am sure a shot of 5-hour ENERGY® will keep fans engaged and energetic for all the exciting action happening in the ring.”

 

 

 

Living Essentials, LLC released the following statement: “The makers of 5-hour ENERGY® shots are excited to support Salita Promotions, as they prepare for the return of Claressa Shields and world championship boxing to Detroit – – a city rich in boxing history and the hometown of 5-hour ENERGY®.”

 

 

 

Fast and easy to consume, 5-hour ENERGY® shots are a quick, simple and effective answer to flagging energy levels in your hard-working day.. Regular strength 5-hour ENERGY® shots contain zero sugar, four calories and caffeine comparable to a cup of the leading premium coffee.

 

 

 

Shields (5-0, 2 KOs), who grew up in nearby Flint, was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic Gold Medals. The 23-year-old turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight. Shields now begins her first camp with renowned trainer John David Jackson as she attempts to become a two-division champion.

 

 

 

Two-division champion Gabriels (18-1-1, 11 KOs) is the reigning WBA and WBO World Champion. The native of Costa Rica won her first world title at welterweight in 2009 and has since fought in an astounding 11 consecutive world-title fights. The 35-year-old won her first belt in the 154-pound division in 2010 and became unified champion in 2016. In her last bout, Gabriels avenged the only loss on her record, a 2013 defeat to then-undefeated title challenger Oxandia Castillo. She looks to become a three-division world champion on June 22.

 

 

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION will also feature extensive highlights of unified women’s middleweight champion Christina Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) as she defends her WBC & WBO titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs).

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

CLARESSA SHIELDS DETROIT MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS  

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Unified Women’s Super Middleweight Champ Faces Hanna Gabriels in the Main Event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Friday, June 22 Live on SHOWTIME®

 

 

Click HERE for Photos from Terrell Groggins

 

DETROIT (May 10, 2018) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and unified women’s super middleweight champion Claressa Shields worked out for the media and spoke to local youth Wednesday at The Downtown Boxing Gym in Detroit. The boxing star is two weeks into training camp ahead of her SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION showdown Friday, June 22 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from the historic Masonic Temple.

 

 

 

The 23-year-old Shields, who grew up in nearby Flint, will attempt to become a two-division world champion when she faces unified women’s 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Middleweight World Titles.

 

 

 

Ahead of the crucial middleweight world title fight, Shields has altered her preparations significantly. She has changed her diet, switched to renowned trainer John David Jackson and has moved her camp from Michigan to Florida.

 

 

Joining Shields at the workout on Wednesday was Dmitriy Salita, Founder of Salita Promotions. Here is what Shields and Salita had to say.

 

 

Claressa Shields:

 

 

 

On fighting in Detroit…

“To fight in Detroit for a world title on SHOWTIME and to be mentioned with great Detroit fighters like Tommy Hearns and James Toney is incredible. Those guys are known worldwide.  It shows me that I have a chance to do the same thing and bring attention to women’s boxing. That’s my goal overall – to make sure women’s boxing lives for a long time”

 

 

 

On moving camp to Florida…

“You really can’t deal with unnecessary distractions getting ready for big world title fights like I have been having. You want people pushing you to be better and not have people pulling you down.

 

 

 

“I was dealing with everybody who’s around pulling me left and right and calling me at 2, 3 o’clock in the morning. All this negative stuff that goes on in Flint that 23-year-olds are being involved in is something I can’t be involved in. That initially made me do the whole move.  I have to stay focused and work hard on my goal of beating Hanna Gabriels and capturing the world title in a second division.

 

 

 

On training with John David Jackson…

“We’re on the same page and we’re always talking about the game plan for Hanna and what we’re going to do and what we have to work on. John doesn’t try to change my style, he just makes small adjustments to improve the good things that got me to this level.  I feel great about this camp so far and I look forward to putting it all together in June.”

 

 

 

On Hanna Gabriels…

“Hanna is a talented world champion. I have a lot of respect for her skills and accomplishments. It takes great, competitive matches to bring women’s boxing to an elite level and that’s what I want to do.  I always said that I want to fight the best. On June 22, I look forward to putting on a special performance for the fans watching the fight on SHOWTIME and those at the Masonic Temple.  It’s going to be a special night and I can’t wait to capture my second division world title close to home in front of my hometown fans live on SHOWTIME.”

 

 

 

On being an inspiration for kids…

“Kids need to know that everything is possible. I decided to be an Olympic gold medalist at the age of 11. I did it when I was 17. How do you stay focused on one goal all that time? Take one step towards it every day, sometimes small and sometimes bigger. But, the important thing is to keep focused on your goal.  If you persevere and work hard enough, truly everything is possible”

 

 

 

Dmitriy Salita, Founder of Salita Promotions

“We had a tremendous media turnout at today’s media workout at Detroit Downtown Boxing Club.  It’s very special to see such support for Claressa, who’s story and success transcends boxing and is very much in line with the comeback story of Flint and Detroit – “America’s Greatest Comeback City”.

 

 

 

“It’s very meaningful for kids in Detroit gyms like the Downtown Boxing Club to see someone that came from a similar background and neighborhood that they did and accomplish all the amazing things that Claressa is doing. Claressa makes them see and believe that through hard work, belief and focus everything is possible. Boxing is a tool that she has mastered with which to deliver this very important message.

 

 

 

“June 22 is going to be one of the biggest fights of the year and one of the most meaningful and memorable moments in sports and women’s boxing.”

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Two-division world champion Beibut Shumenov comeback fight for Vacant WBA Cruiserweight World title

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July 7 in Astana, Kazakhstan

ASTANA, Kazakhstan (May 10, 2018)) – Two-division World Boxing Association (WBA) World Champion Beibut Shumenov announced his comeback fight will be held July 7, against 30-1 Hizni Altunkaya for the vacant WBA Cruiserweight World title, in Astana, Kazakhstan.

 

 

 

Shumenov (17-2, 11 KOs), a 2004 Kazakhstan Olympian, retired last June due to an eye injury that required surgeries, forcing him to relinquish his WBA cruiserweight world title.

 

 

 

Shumenov vs. Altunkaya is a presentation of Shumenov’s company, KZ Event Productions, Inc.

 

 

 

The July 7th gala event will be part of the 20th anniversary celebration of Astana being the capital of Kazakhstan. Many political dignitaries from Kazakhstan and around the World are expected to attend Shumenov’s comeback fight.

 

 

 

“I’m happy to fight for my belt,” Shumenov said from his training camp in Kazakhstan. “My eye is 100-percent and I’m excited about fighting again. I’m honored to fight on the 20thanniversary celebration of Astana as my country’s capital. After this fight, I want Interim cruiserweight champion, Arsen Goulamirian.”

 

 

In only his 10th pro fight, Shumenov established the fewest-fights record for a light heavyweight world champion, when he decisioned Gabriel Campillo in Las Vegas.

 

 

Shumenov became the only two-division world champion from Kazakhstan in his last fight, when he stopped Junior Wright in the 10th round of their May 21, 2016 title fight, capturing the WBA Cruiserweight World Championship.

 

 

 

During the 34-year-old Shumenov’s professional career, he has defeated four world champions – Campillo, Byron Mitchell, William Joppy and Montell Griffin) – as well as seven world title challengers: Epifanio Mendoza, Vlacheslav Uzelkov, Danny Santiago,Enrique Ornelas, Tamas Kovacs, BJ Flores and Wright.

 

 

 

The 30-year-old Altunkaya (30-1, 17 KOs), fighting out of Germany by way of his native Turkey, stopped Mathias Reinhardt in the opening round on the Vitali Klitschko versus Shannon Briggs World Boxing Council (WBC) Heavyweight World Championship card in 2010 at O2 World Arena in Hamburg, Germany.

 

 

 

In 2011, Altunkaya won a 12-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Salvatore Aiello (29-0) for the Interim World Boxing Federation (WBF) World cruiserweight title. The talented Turk added the vacant Global Boxing Council (GBC) Intercontinental cruiserweight crown to his collection in 2016, The only loss of his pro career was last year to former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Cruiserweight World champion Krzysztof Glowacki (26-1).

 

 

 

“I’m thankful for the chance to fight Beibut Shumenov,” Altunkaya said. “He’s a great fighter, but I will give him my best. We have optimum time to be fully prepared for the fight. It’s going to be a good fight. I’m coming to Kazakhstan to win!”

 

 

 

Other fighters to be in action include four undefeated Kazakh prospects in separate bouts: middleweight Aidos Yerbossynuly (7-0, 6 KOs), super welterweight Bobirzhan Mominov(6-0, 5 KOs) and middleweight Ibragim Iskandarov (2-0, 2 KOs), and pro-debuting Mirzhan Rahimzhanov, who was Shumenov’s teammate on the 2004 Kazakhstan Olympic Boxing Team.

 

 

 

Opponents and other fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.BeibutShumenov.com

Twitter @Beibut_Shumenov

Instagram @BeibutShumenov

Facebook – BeibutShumenov/fanpage.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

TOP SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT FRANCHON CREWS-DEZURN RETURNS ON FRIDAY, JUNE 22, IN DETROIT, ON THE UNDERCARD OF CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. HANNA GABRIELS IBF & WBA WOMEN’S MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

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With her long-time rival, Claressa Shields, moving down to middleweight, Baltimore’s Franchon “The Heavy-Hitting Diva” Crews-Dezurn will finally be getting her own deserved chance to shine.

 

 

 

One of the best female fighters in the world not currently holding a world title, Crews-Dezurn (3-1, 1 KO) will return to the ring for a six-round fight on the non-televised undercard of the blockbuster “It’s Our Time to Shine” event featuring two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and current Unified Women’s Super Middleweight Champion Shields attempting to become a two-division world champion against unified 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Women’s Middleweight World Championships.

 

 

 

The main event will be televised live on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT) and will also feature highlights of Unified Women’s Middleweight Champion Christina Hammer as she defends her WBC & WBO Titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson.

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35.

 

 

 

Not long ago, Crews-Dezurn, an eight-time national amateur champion and two-time medalist at the World Amateur Championships, looked to be the face of American women’s boxing before Shields, a younger boxing prodigy, stole much of her thunder and her spot on the inaugural women’s Olympic boxing team.

 

 

 

The pair faced each other again in their simultaneous pro debuts in late 2016, with Shields winning a decision.

 

 

 

Since then, Crews has signed with Shields’ promoter, Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions, and won three straight fights in impressive fashion.

 

 

 

“Training is going good,” said Crews-Dezurn. “I’ve been helping my husband Glenn get ready for his next fight, so I’m already in great shape. I’m very happy to be getting back in the ring.”

 

 

 

An entrepreneur, singer, and business student in addition to boxing, the charismatic Crews-Dezurn is as marketable as any fighter could be, but has been forced to live in the sizable shadow cast by the success of Shields.

 

 

 

However, now that Shields is off chasing a showdown with German counterpart Christina Hammer at middleweight, the super middleweight division has an opening for a new world champion.

 

 

 

“I’d like to be fighting for a title within the next year,” continued Crews-Dezurn. “I know in my heart I’m right there with the best super middleweights in the world. I just need to keep working hard and let things happen like they should.”

 

 

 

Promoter Salita, a champion of women’s boxing and one of the main forces behind its resurgence, says Crews-Dezurn’s day is coming soon.

 

 

 

“Franchon will be world champion in the not-too-distant future,” he said. “She has all the skills and she works very hard to reach her goals. She deserves all the success she will have. I’m happy to be promoting her career. She’s a very special fighter and person.”

 

 

 

Crews-Dezurn’s opponent is currently TBA. “It’s Our Time to Shine” is presented by Salita Promotions.

 

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boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

CLARESSA SHIELDS TO FIGHT FOR WORLD TITLE IN SECOND WEIGHT DIVISION AS SHE FACES HANNA GABRIELS FOR IBF & WBA WOMEN’S MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS FRIDAY, JUNE 22 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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World’s No. 1 Fighter At 168 Pounds Takes On No. 1 Fighter At 154 Pounds In Main Event Middleweight Bout

 

 

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Live At 10 p.m. ET/PT

From Masonic Temple In Detroit, Mich.; Tickets On Sale Now

 

 

 

NEW YORK (April 24, 2018) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and unified women’s super middleweight Champion Claressa Shields will attempt to become a two-division world champion on Friday, June 22 live on SHOWTIME when she faces unified women’s 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Middleweight World Championships at Masonic Temple in Detroit, Mich.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/PT and features the No. 1 fighter at 168 pounds facing the No. 1 fighter at 154 pounds as they both attempt to become champions for the first time in the middleweight division.

 

 

 

Shields (5-0, 2 KOs), who grew up in nearby Flint, was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic Gold Medals. The 23-year-old turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight. Shields now begins her first camp with renowned trainer John David Jackson as she attempts to become a two-division champion.

 

 

 

“I can’t wait to get into the ring on June 22,” said Shields. “I love the fight against Hanna Gabriels – champion versus champion, exactly the kind of fight that I want every time to take women’s boxing to new heights. I’ve said one of my goals is to win world championships in three weight divisions. I’m proud to be super middleweight champion, and on June 22 I will add the middleweight championship to my accomplishments. I’m excited to be working with John David Jackson for the next step in my career as I look to conquer another division.”

 

 

 

Two-division champion Gabriels (18-1-1, 11 KOs) is the reigning WBA and WBO World Champion. The native of Costa Rica won her first world title at welterweight in 2009 and has since fought in an astounding 11 consecutive world title fights. The 35-year-old won her first belt in the 154-pound division in 2010 and became unified champion in 2016. In her last bout, Gabriels avenged the only loss on her record, a 2013 defeat to then-undefeated title challenger Oxandia Castillo.  She looks to become a three-division world champion on June 22. 

 

 

 

“I’m really excited and grateful to have the opportunity to showcase my skills against Claressa Shields on SHOWTIME,” said Gabriels.  “This will be a great battle of two world champions, a great night for my country, and a great fight for women’s boxing.  I only know one thing – the woman in front of me will lose.  I take nothing away from Claressa’s accomplishments, but on June 22 she is facing a three-time world champion and I will take the ‘0’ in her record and prove I am the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.”

 

 

 

“This main event is yet another example of SHOWTIME Boxing’s commitment to delivering the best fighters in the best matchups,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION. “We have two unified champions, the top fighters in their respective divisions, facing off for a championship in a new weight class.  Will Claressa Shields be as dominant as a middleweight?  Can Hanna Gabriels shock the world and hand Claressa her first loss since she was an amateur in 2012?  We’ll find out on June 22.” 

 

 

 

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT) will also feature extensive highlights of unified women’s middleweight champion Christina Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) as she defends her WBC & WBO titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs). 

 

 

 

If both Shields and Hammer are victorious in their 160-pound bouts on June 22, they will meet in a fall blockbuster on SHOWTIME to determine the undisputed women’s middleweight world champion. 

 

 

 

“I’m glad Christina Hammer will be fighting that night as well. After I beat champion Hanna Gabriels, I want to unify all the middleweight belts against Hammer,” Shields said. “I’ve never been so motivated. This will be a great year for women’s boxing. It’s our time!” 

 

 

 

Hammer, of Dortmund, Germany, has dominated the women’s middleweight division for nearly eight years, having won the WBO title at 160 pounds in 2010.  The 27-year-old became unified champion in 2016 with a unanimous decision over WBC titlist Kali Reis and has made two defenses as unified champion. Hammer won the WBO title in 2010 in her eighth professional fight and has dominated the middleweight division since, losing just a handful of rounds in her reign as champion at 160 pounds. Hammer, who also models professionally and was recently featured at Fashion Week in New York City, has campaigned mostly in Germany since turning professional in 2009.  

 

 

 

“I have been training intensively for months for my first fight in the U.S.,” Hammer said. “I can’t wait to show my skills, desire and hunger to America and prove that I am THE middleweight champion of the world. While I have great respect for Tori Nelson, I promise I will defeat her in spectacular fashion on June 22 and send a message to Claressa Shields. It’s my time to shine!”

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100.  VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35. 

 

 

 

“Women’s boxing will shine brightly on June 22 in Detroit as the best fight the best,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita.  “Claressa Shields, in just her sixth fight as a professional, is once again showing her willingness to take on all challenges when she competes for a second world title against one of the best female fighters in the sport. Hanna Gabriels is a long-reigning world champion and a national hero in Costa Rica. This fight and this card, which features four women’s world champions battling each other, is the definition of world-class boxing. June 22 will be their time to shine, live on SHOWTIME in Detroit.”