All posts by FNU47

boxing, Fox, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Former Super Welterweight Champion Austin Trout Battles U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Saturday, May 25 from Beau Rivage Resort Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi

April 13, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Also in Action! Unbeaten Super Welterweight Contender Chordale Booker Clashes with Rugged Veteran Wale Omotoso & Sensational Prospect Eimantas Stanionis Fights in Welterweight Attraction – (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)

Tickets on Sale Monday, April 15!

BILOXI, MS. (April 11, 2019) – Former super welterweight champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout returns to the ring to take on former title challenger Terrell Gausha in a 10-round super welterweight bout that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes on Saturday, May 25 from Beau Rivage Resort Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi.

In the co-feature, unbeaten super welterweight contender Chordale Booker battles rugged veteran Wale Omotoso in a 10-round bout, while sensational unbeaten welterweight prospect Eimantas Stanionis will open the broadcast at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in an eight or 10-round welterweight fight.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale Monday, April 15 and can be purchased at the Beau Rivage Theatre box office and through Ticketmaster.

“Austin Trout has one of the best resumes at super welterweight in the sport today,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “He’s been in the ring with some of the best boxers at 154-pounds of this generation and I’ve never seen him in a bad fight. Terrell Gausha doesn’t back down from anyone and that will make for an exciting match against Trout. Chordale Booker will be putting his unbeaten record on the line against Wale Omotoso in what will be one of his toughest tests to date. It’s a show that has something for everyone that attends at Beau Rivage or tunes in to FS1 and FOX Deportes.”

Trout (31-5, 17 KOs) has tangled with some of the top super welterweights of this generation, including Saul Alvarez, Erislandy Lara, Miguel Cotto, Jermell and Jermall Charlo and Jarrett Hurd. The 33-year-old from Las Cruces, Mexico, will look to rebound from a majority decision defeat to Jermell Charlo last June. His knockout victory over Joey Hernandez in 2015 headlined the first PBC show on FS1.

“I’m excited to be back in the ring,” said Trout. “I’m ready to take another chop at the world title and this is my way back. I’m really motivated to get that championship belt again. Gausha is a strong, technical fighter with an Olympic pedigree. I’ve got to get in there and take care of him and look good doing it. A good win over him will get me right back in the mix.”

The 31-year-old Gausha (21-1, 10 KOs), a member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic boxing team from Cleveland, Ohio, will look to put himself back into title contention with a victory over Trout. He came up short in his first title fight against Erislandy Lara, losing a unanimous decision in 2017, before rebounding with a knockout victory over Joey Hernandez in his last fight in December.

“I feel good about this fight and I think it’s the perfect fight for me,” said Gausha. “With Austin Trout being a former champion and having experience fighting all the top guys in the division, it gives me a chance to show where I’m at. It’s not only about winning, but it’s the way I’ll win that will put people on notice.”

Booker (14-0, 7 KOs) is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Juan De Angel in January on FS1. The 27-year-old southpaw from Stamford, Conn., was busy in 2018, going 5-0 with three knockouts. Booker is very active in his Stamford community as well, running his charity for at-risk youth and training amateurs for the Golden Gloves.

“My expectations for myself are to put on the best performance I’ve had in boxing period – amateur or pro,” said Booker. “I’m looking to showcase every ability that I have, not just brute strength. I want to show people that I’m championship caliber. What I see from him is that he’s a game fighter and comes to fight. He likes to come forward. He’s going to try to take it to me. But I can do a lot of things, box going forward, backwards, sideways, or anything it will take to get this win.”

The 33-year-old Omotoso (27-3, 21 KOs) is a hard-nosed veteran who will present Booker with his toughest test to date. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Omotoso learned to fight in the streets before honing his skills in the boxing gym. He calls himself “Lucky Boy” because he feels fortunate to have made it off the streets alive and become a successful professional boxer. Now training in Los Angeles, Omotoso most recently defeated Freddy Hernandez in December 2017.

“I got the call to fight a young, undefeated fighter in Booker and I said bring it on,” said Omotoso. “I’m really happy he took the fight because most people say I’m too dangerous and too tough. I will give it all I got. When I go to the ring I put all my effort and training into the fight. That’s the way this sport is. I know he’s going to come in with all he’s got, but the toughest man will win.”

Stanionis (8-0, 5 KOs) is from Kaunas, Lithuania and was a member of the 2016 Lithuanian Olympic boxing team. The 24-year-old, who now lives in Oxnard, California, and trains with Ronnie Shields in Texas, is on the fast track toward being a top contender. He’s continued to impress with victories over durable veterans Levan Ghvamichava and Samuel Figueroa in his last two bouts.

# # #

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX, FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports &www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. �c�L��Q�r;6�?

boxing

Rumble at the Rock V “Night of the Undefeated” Comes to Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. on Friday, May 10, at 7 p.m.

April 13, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

***Seven Undefeated Local Favorites Featured in Separate Bouts***

**HOLLYWOOD, Fla.** (April 11, 2019) The fifth installment of the popular **Rumble at the Rock** series will be held on **Friday, May 10**, **at 7 p.m.** at **Hard Rock Event Center** atSeminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. Presented by Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory, the event, entitled “**Night of the Undefeated**,” will feature no less than seven undefeated local favorites in separate bouts.

In the 10-round main event will be undefeated, WBA No. 7-rated featherweight contender **Hairon “El Maja” Socarras** (21-0-3, 13 KOs) of Miami via Marianao, Cuba. Socarras, 26, was last seen scoring a unanimous eight-round decision over Mexico’s Carlos Ruiz in March at Hard Rock Event Center.

Also scheduled for action is Miami via Havana undefeated welterweight **Livan “The Machine Gun Kid” Navarro** (10-0, 7 KOs). Navarro, 28, scored a KO 4 over Barranquilla, Colombia’s Wilfrido Buelvas last November.

Back in action will be undefeated 20-year-old boxing prodigy **Logan “The Korican Kid” Yoon** (15-0, 12 KOs). The Hawaii-based welterweight Yoon is coming off a TKO 5 over Africa’s Hamza Sempewo in Atlantic City last November.

Two-time Olympic medalist and undefeated heavyweight KO artist **Ivan “The Kazakh Giant” Dychko** (7-0, 7 KOs) of Hollywood, Fla., via Kazakhstan, will be back, looking to keep his perfect record intact in an eight-round test. The 28-year-old scored a one-punch demolition of once-promising Maurice Harris last July.

Riding the momentum of impressive victories over established veterans Breidis Prescott and Ed Paredes in his last two fights, popular Puerto Rican sensation **Derrieck Cuevas**(20-0-1, 14 KOs) will be back for his next step up the welterweight ladder. Cuevas, 24, is the hard-punching prospect Florida fans have rallied behind faithfully.

Back for another appearance is the rugged, made-for-TV Cuban super middleweightIrosvani Duvergel (5-0, 3 KOs). Duvergel, 27, will be participating in his fourth straight fight at Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood and his exciting style has made him a fan favorite.

Also in action will be cruiserweight **“Bad” Blake Davis** (1-0) from Cooper City, looking for his second win in a four-round showdown.

**Tickets for “Rumble at the Rock V” cost $250, $150, $100 and $60 and are available through** ticketmaster.com.

“This series of shows has produced several future champions for South Florida and I’m proud to be part of it,” said Henry Rivalta, Director of Boxing Operations for The Heavyweight Factory. “Every one of our undefeated prospects will be matched up in challenging tests to continue their development.”

Opponents and rounds will be announced shortly. On fight night, the Hard Rock Event Center doors open at 6 p.m., and the action starts at 7 p.m. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is located at 1 Seminole Way in Hollywood, Fla.

**# # #**

**About Hard Rock Event Center**
Hard Rock Event Center is the newly constructed 3,600-seat venue located in the northwest corner of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood. As part of the $1.5 billion property expansion, the former Hard Rock Live arena will be razed and replaced with a state-of-the-art 6,500-plus-seat venue in a theater-style configuration, slated to open in 2019. In the interim, a full schedule of concerts, comedy shows and other events will take place in the Hard Rock Event Center. Seminole Hard Rock has hosted some of the hottest musical acts such as John Legend, Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, Marc Anthony, Billy Joel, Andrea Bocelli, Tim McGraw and Carlos Santana; top comedians including Kevin Hart, Tracy Morgan, Chris Rock, George Lopez and the late Robin Williams; as well as major sporting events and events of major sports stars, from UFC matches to charity galas for Jason Taylor, Alonzo Mourning, Dwyane Wade and more. For additional information, please visit www.myhrl.com.

**About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood**
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is the flagship casino resort of Hard Rock International, owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. It is a world-renowned entertainment, gaming and hospitality destination that features a AAA Four Diamond-rated luxury hotel; expansive gaming offerings including first-in-class slots, high-stakes table games and South Florida’s premier poker room; spa and fitness center; award-winning dining and nightlife; and the popular Hard Rock Event Center which hosts A-list entertainers, comedy and sporting events. A $1.5 billion expansion slated to open in fall 2019 will bring 638 luxury guestrooms to a first-ever, iconic, guitar-shaped hotel and 168 upscale guest accommodations in an adjacent hotel tower overlooking a lush, “Bora Bora” style, private cabana environment; a 42,000 square-foot Rock Spa®; a 13.5 acre recreational water-focused experience for sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, sailing and paddle boarding; 21 distinctive restaurants, bars and lounges; an expanded gaming floor featuring 3,100 slots, 193 table games and a 45-table poker room; 120,000 square feet of premier meeting and convention space; and 26,000 square feet of new retail space. The highly anticipated 6,500 seat Hard Rock Live theater-style concert venue will feature headline performances and live broadcast capabilities. The resort is located on 87 acres of the Hollywood Seminole Reservation along State Road 7, (U.S. Highway 441). The resort is 10 minutes from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and 30 minutes from downtown Miami and Miami International Airport. For more information, visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com, call 800-937-0010 or follow us:
Facebook: SeminoleHardRockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly

boxing, Fox, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Rising Super Lightweight Prospect Omar Juarez Takes on Dwayne Bonds Live on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 20 From Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. & Presented By Premier Boxing Champions

April 10, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

*Photos by Team Juarez*

**BROWNSVILLE, TX (April 10, 2019)** – Rising blue chip prospect, **Omar “El Relampago” Juarez (**2-0, 1 KO), returns to the ring on PBC FIGHT NIGHT – EXTRA on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 20 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. Juarez will face **Dwayne Bonds** (3-1-1, 1 KO) in a four-round match to open the telecast beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, in association with DSG Promotions, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or at the Dignity Health Sports Park box office from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The 19-year old from Brownsville, TX, is looking to make a statement with an electrifying performance as he continues is fast start toward a world title. Here’s what he to say about his upcoming televised bout and his current training camp.

**On his recent training camp:**

“I’ve been spending a lot of time training in San Antonio, TX, getting good sparring with all the pros out there. **Rick Nunez**, who has been working closely with my head trainer and father **Rudy Juarez**, has been a big help to me and my dad. We all work together with the common goal to be the best. I’ve had a great camp and we are entering the final days of training before we head out to California.”

**On his upcoming matchup with Bonds:**

“I don’t know much about Bonds except that he’s an older fighter from El Paso who has recently fought. I’m going to press the action and dictate the pace. I’ll make adjustments as the fight goes on. I really want to make a statement by getting the KO. If I get him hurt, he’s going down.”

**On making his second appearance on FS1:**

“It’s very exciting to be fighting on FS1 once again. The exposure is unbelievable, and I want to thank my management team and FS1 for the opportunity. Now its time for me to put on a great performance and entertain those watching on television.”

**On fighting for his hometown of Brownsville, Texas:**

“I love my hometown of Brownsville, Texas. I have all the support from my people out here. My goal is to one day headline a big fight in this town, a world title fight to be exact. I know I have a long way to go, but I have my mind set on getting to the top. I’m taking the people of Brownsville with me every step of the way.”

wrestling

Olympians Jordan Burroughs, Ben Askren To Battle For First Time May 6 At Beat the Streets ‘Grapple At The Garden’

April 10, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Gold Medalist, Longtime Beat the Streets Competitor Burroughs Takes On UFC Standout Askren At 74kg To Highlight Tenth Annual Youth Non-profit Fundraiser At Hulu Theater at MSG**
**NEW YORK–**
Two of the most decorated and well-known recent Olympic wrestlers will square off for the first time as 2012 Gold Medalist **Jordan Burroughs** takes on 2008 Olympian **Ben Askren**
as part of the 10^th annual “Grapple at the Garden” Beat the Streets (BTS) benefit at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden on May 6. Burroughs, who has competed at numerous past BTS events, will battle Askren, who has parlayed his wresting talents into a strong mixed martial arts career in the UFC and other promotions, at 74kg in the highly-anticipated matchup.

“Grapple at the Garden” supports Beat the Streets, the largest grassroots inner city wrestling program in the United States, serving as both a fundraiser for the organization and to celebrate its athletes as they compete on the biggest stage in the center of the world.
Burroughs, a four-time World freestyle champion (2011, 2014, 2015, 2017), has won eight consecutive BTS benefit matches, downing fellow Olympian **Frank Chamizo**
last year in a thrilling, come-from-behind 8-5 verdict in the main event Supermatch.

Burroughs was a three-time All-American at Nebraska, winning two NCAA titles. The Sicklerville, N.J., native also competed at the 2016 Olympics in Rio but did not medal.
Burroughs has the most World gold medals in USA history with four, tied with John Smith, Adeline Gray and Tricia Saunders. His five World and Olympic gold medals trails only Smith, who has six. He also has won two World bronze medals, giving him seven World and Olympic medals in his storied career.

Askren, who went 1-1 but didn’t medal in his lone Olympic appearance, was a four-time NCAA finalist at Missouri, winning the crowns in 2006 and 2007. His MMA career has included wins in his first 19 matches, most recently at UFC 235 last month. He has fought for several other promotions, primarily One Championship and Bellator, in amassing his perfect record.

Both Burroughs and Askren competed at 74 kg at the Olympic Games. Combined, they represented the USA at this weight class for the last three Olympic Games.

“Jordan Burroughs is a great champion who has been a great supporter of Beat the Streets for years, and Ben Askren has made a name for himself with his outsize talent and personality to match,” said Beat the Streets Executive Director **Brendan Buckley**

. “This is a match that many fans have been hoping for, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring them together in a way that will benefit our BTS kids on what is shaping up to be a huge night of wrestling at Hulu Theater.”

The news follows last week’s first announced main event bout, between New Jersey natives
**James Green** (Willingboro) and **Anthony Ashnault** (South Plainfield). Additional matchups in the Team USA vs. NCAA Champions main events will be announced in the coming weeks. Those will be preceded by several youth matches, with one previously announced: a
battle of local State Champions in **Jo Jo Aragona** (Pope John XXIII HS/New Jersey) vs.
**Adam Busiello** (Eastport-South Manor HS/New York).

Tickets for the evening’s action are available now via TicketMaster, priced starting at $30 at
https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/3B005668AA091B69. A variety of donation packages which include “Grapple in the Garden” tickets are also available at
https://www.btsny.org/bts-events or by emailing molalde@btsny.org, beginning at $1000
. Doors open on May 6 at 5:30 p.m., with the main event starting at 6 p.m.
For the fifth straight year, FloSports will provide live and on-demand coverage on FloWrestling.com.

Beat the Streets, Inc. will invite select members of the 2018 U.S. Men’s Freestyle World Team, which placed second in the 2018 World Championships and won seven World medals, as well as select top USA women’s wrestlers.

Beat the Streets Benefit competitions, which began in 2010, have since become a major showcase of the best of international wrestling. This unique and electrifying annual event has helped Beat the Streets raise millions of dollars to support local youth wrestling programs which empower young people in New York City.

The first Beat the Streets Benefit was held on the U.S.S. Intrepid, an aircraft carrier docked on the west side of Manhattan. Since then, the benefit has taken place at other notable New York City spots like Grand Central Station and Times Square. Team USA has faced off against teams from around the world including Japan, Cuba, Russia and Iran. Last year, the competition was hosted at the new Pier 17 in the Seaport District and included the highly anticipated Burroughs vs. Chamizo match.

The 2018 U.S. World Team, which competed in Budapest, Hungary, featured 2018 World champions Kyle Dake, David Taylor and J’den Cox, 2018 World silver medalist Kyle Snyder, and 2018 World bronze medalists Joe Colon, Jordan Burroughs and Nick Gwiazdowski. Burroughs and Snyder are both multiple Olympic and World champions. Others on the USA team included 2016 World champion Logan Stieber, two-time World bronze medalist James Green and 2017 World silver medalist Thomas Gilman.

New York City’s Madison Square Garden is one of the most famous sporting and entertainment venues in the world. The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden is an impressive venue with the capacity to seat over 5,000. The theater has hosted notable wrestling events including the 1998 Goodwill Games wrestling competition and the 2017 Grapple at the Garden college wrestling event.

**About Beat the Streets**
The mission of Beat the Streets is to develop the full potential of the urban youth and to strengthen the culture of New York City wrestling. BTS works directly with the New York City Department of Education in a public-private partnership to bring the life changing sport of wrestling to over 3,000 New York City student-athletes to help them achieve their personal and athletic goals. Through the operation of wrestling programs in middle and high schools in the five boroughs, BTS and the DOE provide a safe, positive atmosphere in which disadvantaged and at-risk youth can learn the essential life lessons of grit, personal responsibility and teamwork, physical fitness and nutrition, and life-long learning. The goal of fostering strong, well-rounded student-athletes is delivered through coaching, after-school programs, life skills workshops, and summer camps. More information can be found at www.btsny.org.

**About USA Wrestling**
USA Wrestling is the National Governing Body for the Sport of Wrestling in the United States and, as such, is its representative to the United States Olympic Committee and United World Wrestling, the international wrestling federation. Simply, USA Wrestling is the central organization that coordinates amateur wrestling programs in the nation and works to create interest and participation in these programs. It has over 230,000 members across the nation, boys and girls, men and women of all ages, representing all levels of the sport. Its president is Bruce Baumgartner, and its Executive Director is Rich Bender. More information can be found at TheMat.com.
**# # #**

boxing, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE TO AIR FIRST WORLD TITLE FIGHT, FOUR ADDITIONAL BOUTS PRIOR TO SHOWTIME’S COVERAGE OF SHIELDS-HAMMER ON SATURDAY, APRIL 13 IN ATLANTIC CITY

April 10, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Gradinar-Carabajal to clash for vacant IBF World Championship on fan-friendly, FREE Facebook platform.

Online: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW YORK (April 8, 2019) – An IBF Female World Title is on the line and women’s boxing history will be made on Saturday, April 13, as FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast once again works alongside **SHOWTIME Sports** to deliver a great night of action to fight fans everywhere. Beginning at 6 p.m. ET live from the hallowed Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J., the interactive, FREE Facebook series sets the table for the Shields vs. Hammer undisputed middleweight championship showdown with five fights, including a world title contest and a main event preview featuring the undefeated champion **Claressa Shields** herself.

“We’re excited to have a role in what will be a historic night in women’s boxing, and it speaks to the strides our platform has made to exclusively air our first world championship matchup,” said **Mark Fratto**, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “The world title fight will be part of an outstanding evening of Facebook action with championship contenders and budding stars, and an exclusive interview with Claressa Shields, and of course we’re thrilled to be working alongside Showtime once again.”

The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE lineup is headlined by unbeaten Russian **Elena Gradina**r (9-0, 2 KOs), who vies for her first world title when she takes on two-time title challenger Brenda Karen Carabajal (15-4-1, 9 KOs) for the vacant IBF Featherweight World Championship – the first-ever world title fight for the popular Facebook series. In super flyweight action, 23 year-old Detroit-native **Ja’Rico O’Quinn** (11-0, 8 KOs) looks to remain unbeaten in an eight-round fight against Minnesota’s **Vicente Alfaro Martinez** (9-4, 3 KOs). The card will also include former heavyweight title challenger **Samuel Peter** (37-6, 30 KOs) in an eight-round matchup and **Jesse Angel Hernandez** (12-2, 7 KOs) of Fort Worth, Texas, stepping in for an eight round super bantamweight contest. Local standout **Isiah Seldon**(12-2, 4 KOs) opens the free show on Facebook three hours before Showtime Boxing hits the airwaves.

“April 13 is a fantastic fight card, top-to-bottom, from former heavyweight champion Samuel Peter to top American super flyweight prospect Jarico O’Quinn and the highly competitive IBF Featherweight World Title fight between No. 1-ranked Elena Gradinar from Russia and No. 2 contender Karen Carbajal from Argentina fighting for the vacant belt,” said boxing champion-turned-promoter **Dmitriy Salita** of Salita Promotions. “Some of the best boxers on the planet will be on display on the most popular social media platform in the world, Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE, on April 13.”

Now in its second season, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast is the fan-friendly Facebook platform that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has showcased more than 545 fighters and 16 promotions during 33 live event broadcasts from 19 different cities since May 2017, and in doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

Since May 2017, the numbers on the 33-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of **171,589 views** per event and more than **5.6 million total views** for the franchise. Since Sept. 2018, sixteen FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Season II shows **have reached 4.2 million fans** and have averaged almost 265,000 views.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” (594,447) from the Sands in Bethlehem, the Dec. 2018 “Queens and Kings of Queens Card” (379,758) in New York, the Nov. 2018 “Hard Hitting Showtime Collaboration” (372,662), the Dec. 2018 “Roy Jones Jr. Texas Throwdown” (318,886), the Oct. 2018 “Hard Hitting Philly Special” (297,545), the Oct. 2018 hour-long Bareknuckle “Freeview” (292,253), the Nov. 2018 “Titans In The Capital” (256,871), the March 2019 Murphys Boxing “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (252,065), the Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the March 2019 Murphy’s Boxing “Melrose Mayhem” (218,409), the Feb. 2019 “Raging Babe Philly Special” (203,000) and the August 2017 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000) all logged 200,000 or more views, and collectively the 33-show series has seen a total of more than 5,662,450 views across all devices.

In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen **more than 430,000 collective live post engagements** (more than 13,000 per show), including more than 330,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 58,000 comments and more than 19,000 shares.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” from the Sands in Bethlehem set a new bar with **594,447 views**. The Sept. 2017 DiBella card saw **more than 40,000 viewer interactions** including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for **shares with 2,182.**

The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 87,000 fans and more than 95,000 followers.

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

Additional FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Spring 2019 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and@FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

About Everlast Worldwide Inc.
The preeminent brand in boxing since 1910, Everlast is the world’s leading manufacturer, marketer and licensor of boxing, MMA and fitness equipment. From legendary champions Jack Dempsey and Sugar Ray Robinson to current superstars Deontay Wilder and Dustin Poirier, Everlast is the brand of choice for generations of world champion professional athletes. Built on a brand heritage of strength, dedication, individuality and authenticity, Everlast is a necessary part of the lives of countless champions. Based in Manhattan, Everlast’s products are sold across more than 75 countries and 6 continents. For more information, visitwww.everlast.com.

Bare Knuckle Boxing

ARTEM LOBOV DEFEATS JASON KNIGHT BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN SENSATIONAL MAIN EVENT OF “BKFC 5: LOBOV VS. KNIGHT” FROM MISSISSIPPI COAST COLISEUM & LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW

April 10, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Click HERE for Photos
Credit: Phil Lambert/Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship

Cick HERE for Video Highlights
Credit: Evan Zentar/Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship

**BILOXI, Miss.** (April 6, 2019) – Former UFC veteran **Artem Lobov** defeated former UFC veteran and Mississippi native **Jason Knight** by unanimous decision (48-47 X 2, 48-46) to win the main event of **“BKFC 5: Lobov vs. Knight”** in a Fight of The Year candidate on Saturday night at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, Miss. and live on pay-per-view.

Knight started off fast, knocking down Lobov just 10 seconds in to round one. However, Lobov quickly popped up and came back to knock down Knight later in the first frame, again in round two, and for a third time in round three. The fourth and fifth stanzas showcased furious exchanges with both fighters leaving every ounce of themselves in the ring.

“I thought he was conquered many times,” said Lobov. “I dropped him three or four times. He’s a tough, tough kid. He kept coming and coming. That was a great fight.”

“We all know that I didn’t lose that fight,” said Knight. “We all know that I got robbed. It’s alright, I’m still going to party tonight.”

The co-main event featured former UFC veteran **Chris Leben** quickly overwhelming former Bellator standout **Justin Baesman** with a devastating left hand, followed by a series of uppercuts that stopped Baesman just :25 in to the light heavyweight contest.

**Christine Ferea** scored a technical stoppage win over **Britain Hart** for the Police Gazette American Women’s Featherweight Bare Knuckle Championship. Ferea had Hart in trouble midway through the second round as referee Dan Miragliotta called for time to have Hart’s severely bloodied and bruised left eye checked. The ringside physician stopped the contest moments later at 1:09 in to the second round.

“I’m the first woman to ever have this belt,” said Ferea. “I’m going to rep it strong and I’m super happy right now. The first round I was feeling (Hart) out. I was watching some of her footage and she can do it all. So, I just felt out the first round, touching her with the jab. And then the second round that’s when I went in and let my power go.

“I would love (a fight against Bec Rawlings)!” added Ferea. “I’ve been asking for a fight with her for three fights. I think I deserve it.”

Former BKFC heavyweight title challenger **Sam Shewmaker** and former UFC veteran **Chase Sherman** fought to a split draw (50-45 Sherman, 48-47 Shewmaker, 48-48) in a crowd-pleasing heavyweight attraction that featured spirited exchanges all the way until the final bell of the fifth round.

One BKFC lightweight tournament semi-final matchup saw Reggie Barnett defeat **Rusty Crowder** by unanimous decision (50-44 X 3). An extremely evasive Crowder was deducted one point in the fourth round for throwing Barnett to the canvas as Barnett cruised to the victory by a wide margin.

After his win, Barnett said, “Everybody expected me and Bedford to be fighting in the championship. Johnny comes to fight. I come to fight. So, you’re going to see nothing but fireworks and I personally think it’s a main event-caliber championship fight.”

In the other BKFC lightweight tournament semi-final contest **Johnny Bedford**stopped **Abdiel Velazquez** :58 in to round four. Bedford scored two knockdowns in the second round, a third in the third frame and sent Velazquez to the canvas for the fourth and final time in round four, with Velazquez electing to not get back up and continue.

Before Barnett and Crowder fought, Bedford prophesied, “I anticipate I’m going to fight Reggie Barnett in the finals. I thought that from the beginning. I think Reggie knew that from the very beginning. And I think Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship knew that from the very beginning by putting us on opposite ends of the bracket. I think it doesn’t matter who you name the number one and number two seeds, we are the two top dogs in this division.”

With Barnett and Bedford winning their respective BKFC lightweight tournament semi-final bouts they will now face each other in the finals for a chance at BKFC’s first lightweight championship title.

In undercard action, former UFC fighter **Isaac Vallie-Flagg** scored a technical knockout victory over **Randy Hedderick** in a 165-pound showdown. Vallie-Flagg recorded two knockdowns in the third round and forced Hedderick to quit 1:22 in to round three due to an injured left hand.

The swing bout saw Gulfport police officer **Harris Stephenson** defeat **Khalib Harris** by split decision (50-47 Stephenson, 48-47 Harris, 49-46 Stephenson).

# # #

**About Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship**
On June 2, 2018, Philadelphia-based Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) made combat sports history when it promoted the first legal, sanctioned and regulated bare knuckle event in the United States since 1889. “BKFC 1: The Beginning” took place in Cheyenne, Wyoming and featured 10 professional bouts, all under the auspices and control of the Wyoming Combative Sports Commission. BKFC uses only established fighters who have previously competed professionally in boxing, MMA, kickboxing and/or Muay Thai. All BKFC bouts are sanctioned and regulated by ABC member athletic commissions. For more information visit www.bareknuckle.tv or follow on Twitter at @BareKnuckleFC, on Instagram at www.instagram.com/bareknucklefc and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bareknucklefc.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

UNBEATEN MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION CHRISTINA HAMMER TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

April 6, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**WBO Middleweight Champion Hammer Takes on Fellow Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields for Undisputed Middleweight Championship Saturday, April 13 Live on SHOWTIME**^®**from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City**

**Click HERE for Video from Salita Promotions**

**ATLANTIC CITY, N.J.** (April 5, 2019) – Before she arrived in New York Thursday for the final part of her training camp, WBO Middleweight World Champion **Christina Hammer**shared her thoughts on her showdown for the Undisputed Middleweight Championship against WBA, WBC and IBF Middleweight Champion **Claressa Shields** Saturday April 13 live on SHOWTIME from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

Germany’s Hammer has held a middleweight world title since 2010, defending it numerous times including in her U.S. debut last June on SHOWTIME in which she defeated Tori Nelson. Now she looks to stamp her name in the history books in this matchup against Shields that many are calling the most significant fight in women’s boxing history.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are priced at $150, $100, $55 and $35 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster and atboardwalkhall.com.

Here are highlights of what Hammer had to say as we head into fight week for this historic event:

***How excited are you about fighting in the U.S.?***

**Christina Hammer:** “I’m really excited about it because this is a very big fight. I can’t wait to get there, step into the ring and put on a great performance.”

***What does this fight mean to you?***

**CH:** “This is going to be the biggest women’s fight in history. We’re both champions, she has Olympic gold medals and other accolades, so with all of that combined, it’s going to be a game changer for our sport.”

***What do you need to do to win?***

**CH: “**I’m a long time champion and I know what to do in the ring. I know I have the skills to beat her. I have great foot work and my goal is to beat her badly.”

***What do you think of Claressa inside and outside of the ring?***

**CH:** “Claressa has obviously accomplished a lot going back to the Olympics. This is a big step for her and I think it’s going to be a challenge for her. As a person, she’s just my opponent, that’s all.”

***Can you describe your style of fighting and what fans can expect on April 13?***

**CH: “**I’m tall for my division so I use my reach. I have great footwork and technique and power and I want to show off all those skills. I’m going to show that Christina Hammer is a great champion. I like to play with my opponent, and when the moment is right, I beat her down.”

***Can you talk about your experiences as a fashion model and why that’s important to you?***

**CH:** “I like modeling because it’s a different part of me. You can be more feminine and athletic. I did my first shoot three years ago and I had never done anything like that. I’ve worked on my skills there too.

“To be a model is an easy job, it just gives me confidence. Being a fighter is hard. You have to give everything, because in the ring you can’t run away. You have to fight and defeat someone.”

***Would you ever want to compete in another sport?***

**CH:** “I don’t know. Boxing is the best sport to me. It’s my passion. I give everything to the sport and my dream now is to be successful in America.”

***Is there anyone in boxing history you’d have loved to fight?***

**CH:** “Laila Ali was a great champion and If I fought her that would be a great fight.”

***Do you see women’s boxing as a sport on the rise?***

**CH:** “Yes, it’s really grown in recent years. There are more fights on big platforms for us and I think this is just the start.”

***Would you recommend for other women to go into boxing?***

**CH:** “Boxing is a great sport. You need technique, intelligence and it makes you feel more confident. If something happens, you can take care of yourself. It’s the best workout and I suggest it to everyone.”

**# # #**

**ABOUT SHIELDS vs. HAMMER**
Shields vs. Hammer will pit undefeated middleweight world champions Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer against each other in a battle to crown the undisputed 160-pound world champion, in what is arguably the most significant women’s boxing event in history. The co-feature will pit Jermaine Franklin taking on Rydell Booker in a thrilling 10-round heavyweight bout and in the telecast opener, heavyweights Otto Wallin and Nick Kisner will battle in 10-round clash. The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION tripleheader will air live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/PT from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

Combate Americas, mixed martial arts, MMA

KATE DEL CASTILLO AND GLOBAL MMA BRAND COMBATE AMERICAS SIGN LANDMARK DEAL

April 6, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

BUSINESSWOMAN AND GLOBAL SUPERSTAR ACQUIRES OWNERSHIP STAKE AND TAKES ON LEADERSHIP ROLE AS PART OF $20 MILLION GROUP INVESTMENT IN ONE OF SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT’S FASTEST-GROWING FRANCHISES

FIRST BIG INITIATIVE WILL BE ‘REINAS DEL COMBATE’
THE FIRST ALL-WOMEN’S LINEUP IN HISTORY
TO AIR ON BROADCAST TELEVISION ON FRIDAY, APRIL 26 FROM LOS ANGELES

NEW YORK – April 04, 2019 – Kate Del Castillo, and premier Hispanic Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports entertainment franchise, Combate Americas, announced today a landmark deal that redefines the world of combat sports. Del Castillo has acquired an equity stake in the company and is now an owner and significant shareholder of Combate Americas.

Her investment comes as part of a $20 million equity infusion from a powerhouse group of investors that also includes finance and sports industry leader Joe Plumeri, Ambassador Cliff Sobel and Irving Place Capital CEO John Howard.

Del Castillo will chair the advisory board, continue the company’s commitment to female empowerment and take on an active leadership role in growing the global MMA sports entertainment brand.

“Kate embodies the fierceness, tenacity and passion that defines the Combate Americas brand and its fighters.” says Campbell McLaren, CEO and Founder of Combate Americas. “Kate is now an equity partner and will take on a leadership role in the company and chairs our advisory board, joining our other prestigious investors including Chairman Joe Plumeri, Ambassador Cliff Sobel and John Howard,” he added.

Del Castillo said she was most drawn to Combate Americas’ embracement and development of Hispanic athletes, the tremendous opportunities it affords female fighters, its global media platform and its potential for the franchise to become the number two sport for Hispanic sports fans worldwide, after soccer.

“I am thrilled to join Campbell and the talented leadership team at Combate and will be relentless in helping Combate Americas reach its full potential as the second most popular sport.”

Del Castillo’s most immediate point of focus as an owner will be the upcoming ‘Combate de Reinas’ live television event at Galen Center in Los Angeles on Friday, April 26.

A watershed moment, the event will mark the first time in history that a combat sports event will feature an all-women’s lineup on broadcast television.

“’Combate del Reinas’ is a significant feat for women in sports,” said Del Castillo, “and is a clear testimony to the Company’s commitment to female empowerment which I am excited to champion!”

Del Castillo was represented in the deal with Combate Americas by Walter Mosley of Mosley and Associates, while Combate Americas was represented by attorneys Andrew Nightingale and Krista Whitaker of Proskauer Rose, LLP.

boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

ADRIAN GRANADOS & ANDY RUIZ JR. LOS ANGELES MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

April 6, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Veteran Contender Adrian Granados & Heavyweight Contender**
**Andy Ruiz Jr. Prepare for Respective Premier Boxing Champions**
**on FOX & FOX Deportes Matchups Saturday, April 20 From**
**Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California**

**Click HERE for Photos from Luis Mejia/TGB Promotions**

**Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions**

**LOS ANGELES** (April 4, 2019) – All-action welterweight Adrian Granados a
nd heavyweight contender **Andy Ruiz Jr.** continued preparation for their respective showdowns at a media workout in Los Angeles Thursday before they step in the ring Saturday, April 20 as part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Granados will face former two-division world champion **Danny “Swift” Garcia** in a 12-round welterweight bout that headlines action, while the Southern California-native Ruiz takes on **Alexander Dimitrenko** in heavyweight action as part of the broadcast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to not miss any of the televised action.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, in association with DSG Promotions, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or at the Dignity Health Sports Park box office from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Here is what the workout participants had to say Thursday from Fortune Gym in Los Angeles:

**ADRIAN GRANADOS**

“I feel great. I’m starting to peak and everything is clicking. I had a great camp and I’m just excited for this fight.

“This is a great style matchup. Danny is a strong puncher and a great counter puncher. I’m going to be right there. I’m going to come with it. I also have a lot of intangibles that people don’t see. I’m not one-dimensional and I have a few tricks up my sleeve.

“I think I have more dog in me than Danny does. He complains a lot and also gets away with a lot. He does what he has to do to win. I’ve never been given anything and I think I have a lot more to prove than he does.

“My fights against Shawn Porter and Adrien Broner were good preparation for this. I think against Broner I should have gotten the decision, but I didn’t. Against Porter, I fought the wrong fight and missed the chance I did have. I’ve got a chip on my shoulder from both experiences.

“This is my chance to show the boxing world that I’m elite and get my title shot. I’ve always wanted to become a world champion, and I haven’t got my opportunity at 140 where I beat the number-one contender. I’m not afraid to fight anyone so I’m here to get a big win.

“I think I need a stoppage or a dominating win. It has to be one-sided. I have enough controversial losses that I know that I can’t leave it up to the judges. I’m training hard to dominate the fight.

“I’m kind of a ‘young vet’ because I’m only 29-years-old but I’m battle-tested. I was never promoted until the last three or four years. I’ve had to do what I had to coming up. I took the tough fights that most prospects wouldn’t.

“I always knew I had the talent to be at this level and I’m glad that I’m respected and recognized now, but it’s time for me to get a big win. I’m going to show that I really belong and I’m an elite fighter.”

**ANDY RUIZ JR.**

“All the hard work in the gym has been paying off and I feel prepared for April 20. I’m facing an experienced guy who’s tall, but I think my pressure and my speed will make it difficult for him.

“We’ve looked at Dimitrenko’s past fights and put together a game plan. We’re going to stick to it and execute. We’re going to attack the body and I think with my speed and combinations I’m going to get him out of there.

“I’m coming back from a layoff but it’s over and right now my goal is to make a statement and let everyone know that I’m back in action. I’m ready to take one of the spots at the top of the division.

“There are a lot of big fights I want, but my mind is totally focused on April 20. I’ve never been this motivated. I’m going to be fighting more often and I’m glad to have the opportunity.

“Fighting for the Mexican fans gives me more motivation now than ever. I want to be the first Mexican heavyweight champion of the world and hopefully this year or next year I will accomplish those dreams.

“I have everything I need now to get to where I want to go. This is just the beginning. The more fights I have, the better I’m going to be looking.

“It feels great to be fighting in Southern California and I know there will be a lot of Mexicans out there on April 20. It’s always a great atmosphere and my game plan is to steal the show. I’m going to give it all I got for the fans.

“I think Dimitrenko is going to use his jab and move around. He’s tall, but he can’t run away forever. At some point you have to be there toe-to-toe. We’ve worked on our head movement and we’re going to be ready for anything he brings.”

**TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions**

“Andy Ruiz Jr. is exactly where he should be right now. He’s re-dedicated himself to the sport of boxing and when he does, there might not be a better heavyweight out there. He traveled to New Zealand and took on Joseph Parker in his backyard and lost a majority decision. He’s tasted it and he’s hungry for it again.

“Arguably Adrian Granados could have a record of 27-1 and he’s ready for his moment to shine. I like where he’s at mentally as far as taking charge and winning these fights so he can move on and become a champion, which has been his goal since he got into the game.”

# # #

***ABOUT GARCIA VS. GRANADOS***
Garcia vs. Granados will see former two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia battling rugged veteran Adrian Granados in a 12-round welterweight bout that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 20 20 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California.

Heavyweight contender Andy Ruiz takes on Alexander Dimitrenko in a 10-round bout in the co-feature and unbeaten contender Brandon Figueroa battles Venezuela’s Yonfrez Parejo in a 12-round match for the WBA Interim Super Bantamweight title that opens the primetime FOX broadcast that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, ht
tp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.facebook.com/foxsports &www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

UNIFIED MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION CLARESSA SHIELDS MIAMI MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

April 6, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Fight News Unlimited

All posts by FNU47

Former Super Welterweight Champion Austin Trout Battles U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Saturday, May 25 from Beau Rivage Resort Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi

Rumble at the Rock V “Night of the Undefeated” Comes to Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. on Friday, May 10, at 7 p.m.

Rising Super Lightweight Prospect Omar Juarez Takes on Dwayne Bonds Live on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 20 From Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. & Presented By Premier Boxing Champions

Olympians Jordan Burroughs, Ben Askren To Battle For First Time May 6 At Beat the Streets ‘Grapple At The Garden’

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE TO AIR FIRST WORLD TITLE FIGHT, FOUR ADDITIONAL BOUTS PRIOR TO SHOWTIME’S COVERAGE OF SHIELDS-HAMMER ON SATURDAY, APRIL 13 IN ATLANTIC CITY

ARTEM LOBOV DEFEATS JASON KNIGHT BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN SENSATIONAL MAIN EVENT OF “BKFC 5: LOBOV VS. KNIGHT” FROM MISSISSIPPI COAST COLISEUM & LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW

UNBEATEN MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION CHRISTINA HAMMER TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

KATE DEL CASTILLO AND GLOBAL MMA BRAND COMBATE AMERICAS SIGN LANDMARK DEAL

BUSINESSWOMAN AND GLOBAL SUPERSTAR ACQUIRES OWNERSHIP STAKE AND TAKES ON LEADERSHIP ROLE AS PART OF $20 MILLION GROUP INVESTMENT IN ONE OF SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT’S FASTEST-GROWING FRANCHISES

ADRIAN GRANADOS & ANDY RUIZ JR. LOS ANGELES MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

UNIFIED MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION CLARESSA SHIELDS MIAMI MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

The Best Fight News on the Net!