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Bellator, DAZN, mixta bellicis artibus, MMA, eamque intimam secum fert Network

TICKETS ON SALE THIS WEEK FOR BELLATOR’S RETURN TO ALLSTATE ARENA IN CHICAGO ON MAY 11

February 21, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**BELLATOR LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMP MICHAEL CHANDLER DEFENDS HIS TITLE AGAINST FEATHERWEIGHT KINGPIN PATRICIO ‘PITBULL’ IN LONG-AWAITED GRUDGE MATCH LIVE ON DAZN**

**THE WELTERWEIGHT WORLD GRAND PRIX CONTINUES WITH DOUGLAS LIMA TAKING ON MICHAEL ‘VENOM’ PAGE IN SEMI-FINAL ACTION**

**PRAETER: UNDEFEATED PROSPECT A.J. MCKEE MEETS CHICAGO’S PAT CURRAN AND THE RETURN OF FORMER WWE STAR JAKE HAGER**

**Los Angeles** – Bellator’s return to Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Ill. on Saturday, May 11 is stacked with a must-see lineup of fights, headlined by current lightweight titleholder **Michael Chandler** (19-4) in his attempt to become the only man to defeat both Pitbull Brothers and put an end to their years-long rivalry, when he defends his belt against Bellator’s 145-pound champ **Patricio “Pitbull”** (28-4) in casu main *Bellator 221 -* which will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

The co-headliner will see former two-time Bellator welterweight champion **Lima Douglas** (30-7) face undefeated **Michael “Venom” Page** (14-0), better known to fans as “MVP,” in the first semi-final matchup in Bellator’s Welterweight World Grand Prix. Each fighter has their eyes set on moving one step closer to becoming Bellator welterweight champ and taking home one million dollars.

In addition, arguably one of the world’s top featherweight prospects **A.J. McKee** (13-0) will face the stiffest test of his young career when he fights two-time former Bellator featherweight champion **Pat Curran** (23-7) on Curran’s home turf. Tandem, former WWE champion Jake Hager (1-0) returns to the Bellator cage for the first time since his first-round submission victory in January looking to continue his early dominance inside the cage.

An exclusive online presale for *Bellator 221: Chandler vs. Pitbull* takes place between Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 10 a.m. CT and Thursday, Feb. 21 at 10 p.m. CT, with tickets going on-sale to the general public on Friday, Feb. 22 at 12 p.m. CT. Tickets for the event will be available at the Allstate Arena box office, as well as Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.

*Bellator 221: Chandler vs. Pitbull* will be broadcast live on DAZN at 10 p.m. ET / VII p.m. PT, et fluent ad Bellator.com in praemissis actum est de Bellator globally Mobile App. Nuntiatum est autem in adventu temporis daret hebdomades Additional.

One of the most-decorated fighters in Bellator history, Michael Chandler reclaimed the lightweight championship this past December to become a three-time titleholder. “Iron” has defeated a who’s who among the division’s elite, including **Primus holocausti,**, **Benson Henderson**, **Patricky Pitbull** (x2), **Yamauchi up** and Eddie Alvarez. The former University of Missouri wrestler from High Ridge, Mo., who now calls Nashville home, has had a slow-building feud with his May 11 opponent, verbally sparring with his foe following wins over Patricio’s brother Patricky and on social media. Autem, the time for talk is over and both will enter the Bellator cage to finally settle the score.

Hailing from Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, two-time featherweight champ Patricio “Pitbull” will enter the Bellator cage for a promotional record 21th time. With impressive wins to his name over **Daniel Straus** (x3), **Daniel Weichel** (x2) atque **Pat Curran**, he most recently defeated **Sanchez Emmanuhel** via unum congruerunt sententiae at *Bellator 209*. Moving up a weight class for the first time since *Bellator 160* when he met Benson Henderson, “Pitbull” is planning to leave his mark in a new division and go down as one of the all-time greats. Having earned a finish in 20 eius 28 conciliat ut professionalis, the reigning champion has become synonymous with excitement and fans can certainly expect more fireworks when looks to become a simultaneous two-division champion on May 11.

Fighting out of Atlanta, Ga., by way of Goiania, Brazil, Douglas “The Phenom” Lima has been a mainstay at the top of the 170-pound division for the better part of three years. With wins against the likes of **Lorenz Larkin**, **Andrey Koreshkov** (x2), **Paul Daley** and Ben Saunders, the 31-year-old advanced to the semifinals of the Welterweight World Grand Prix after a technical submission win against Koreshkov. A winner of nine out of his last 11 Ludicrum, the American Top Team product remains set on showing the world how dominant he truly is.

One of the most unorthodox strikers to ever compete, “MVP” has steadily worked his way up the welterweight ranks since signing with the organization in 2013. Known for his unique style and personality both inside the cage and out, every Michael Page fight is must-see entertainment. With an undefeated record of 14-0, atque 11 of those victories coming by stoppage, the 31-year-old out of London Shootfighters advanced to the semifinals following a closely contested unanimous decision win against rival Paul Daley at *Bellator 216.*

Fighting out of Long Beach, Ill., A.J. McKee puts his undefeated record on the line against the former champ on May 11. Currently training alongside the likes of **Aaron Pico**,**“Baby Slice”** atque **Joey Davis** at The Body Shop under the tutelage of his father, MMA veteran Antonio McKee, the second-generation fighter has been making quite the name for himself since joining the professional ranks. At iustus 23 annorum, “Mercenary” has set the Bellator record for consecutive wins at 13, having defeated **Daniel Crawford**, **Brian Moore**, **John “Macapa**, Justin Lawrence and **Dominic Mazzotta** in via. Known for his highlight-reel finishes, McKee will look to remain unbeaten and keep his name etched in the record books when he meets Curran at *Bellator 221.* A former two-time Bellator world featherweight champion, **Pat Curran** returns to the cage near his hometown looking to earn another shot at gold. Fighting out of Crystal Lake, Ill., “Paddy Mike” is in the midst of a three-fight win streak that includes victories over **Sanchez Emmanuhel**, **John “Macapa”**and Georgi Karakhanyan. The longtime Bellator veteran, who debuted at *Bellator 14* in 2010, owns additional wins over **Patricio “Pitbull**,**” Joe Warren**, **Rogerus Huerta** atque **Daniel Straus**. Also, a two-time Bellator tournament winner, the 31-year-old’s return to the top of the 145-pound division begins with a tough test against McKee.

A native of Perry, Okla., Hager emphatically showed the world that he belongs in the sport of MMA with a submission win over J.W. Kizer at *Bellator 214* in January. A collegiate wrestler at the University of Oklahoma, where he was an All-American and set the school record for most pins at the 285-pound weight class in a single season with 30. Following graduation and a conversation with legendary pro wrestling announcer and fellow Oklahoma Sooner, Jim Ross, Hager made the transition to professional wrestling and signed with World Wrestling Entertainment. While in WWE, Hager would go on to claim multiple coveted professional titles during his time with the organization, including the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, ECW Championship and WWE United States Championship. Autem, the man also known to fans around the globe as “Jack Swagger” will return to action MMA action in Chicago against a soon-to-be-announced heavyweight opponent.

**Updated *Bellator 221: Chandler vs. Pitbull* Card:**

*Lightweight World Title Bout:* **Michael Chandler** (19-4) vs. **Patricio “Pitbull”** (28-4)

*Welterweight World Grand Prix Semi-final:* **Lima Douglas** (30-7) vs. **Michael “Venom” Page** (14-0)

*Featherweight Main Card Bout:* **A.J. McKee** (13-0) vs. **Pat Curran** (23-7)

*Heavyweight Main Card Bout:* **Jake Hager** (1-0) vs. TBA

*Card subiectum ad mutationem

Placere visitabo Bellator.com pro magis notitia.

pugilatu, Combate Americas, mixta bellicis artibus, MMA

COMBATE AMERICAS SIGNS UNDEFEATED BOXER, FORMER “LUCHA UNDERGROUND” CHAMP DULCE MARIA GARCIA RIVAS TO EXCLUSIVE, MULTI-FIGHT MMA PROMOTIONAL CONTRACT

February 21, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Prior to making her boxing debut in April 2017, Garcia had appeared in 57 episodes of El Rey Network’s Lucha Libre television series, Lucha Underground, and was crowned the first women’s champion in the show’s history on April 9, 2016.

Garcia is also a four-time champion of Mexico’s Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide professional wrestling organization, and the wife of former, three-time world boxing championGonzalez Jhonny.

pugilatu

Espinoza vs. Nuñez Main Event Added to “Rumble at the Rock IV” on Friday, March 1, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. and Live on Boxeo Telemundo

February 21, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

A second main event has been added to the professional boxing eventus **Friday, March 1,** at the Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., and live on Boxeo Telemundo (11:35 PM ET/PT).

Praesentatus a Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory, consociati All Star Boxing, Rumble at the Rock IV will now also feature highly touted WBO No.1-ranked and WBO Bantamweight Latin Champion **Ricardo “Hindu” Espinoza** (22-2-19 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico, defending his title against Panama’s rugged veteran **Ricardo “El Matematico” Nuñez** (29-8-23 KOs).

In the 10-round welterweight co-main event, Miami via Puerto Rico’s **Derrieck Cuevas**(18-0-1, 14 KOs) will face fellow Floridian **Ed “The Lion” Paredes** (38-7-1, 25 KOs) of Pembroke Pines, Fla.

**Tickets for “Rumble at the Rock IV” cost $60, $100, $150, $250 atque $500 and are available through** ticketmaster.com.

Nuñez, a priori mundo title challenger, is looking to test his young opponent by bringing him into deep waters and kickstarting his boxing career for one last shot at a world title. Contra, Espinoza is coming off a second-round stoppage of then undefeated Colombian prospect Yeison Vargas (17-1-12 Kos).

“My opponents tend to underestimate me because of my young age,” said Espinoza.“They soon realize my power once in the ring. I never underestimate anyone who has two hands.”

“I’ve seen that Espinoza has never fought into later rounds,” said Nuñez. “I’m looking to take him into uncharted waters to see if he still has the power he claims when we get into rounds 8, 9 and 10.”

Sed nox pugnam, the Hard Rock Event Center doors open at 6 a.m., et factum est, initium capit 7 p.m. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is located at 1 Seminole Way in Hollywood, Fla.

pugilatu

“Popeye” returns to the South this Saturday in Charlotte, North Carolina

February 20, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

HARTFORD, Conn. (February 18, 2019) – Undefeated prospect Richard “Nauta Papa est homo” Rivera returns to the South this Saturday night (Feb. 23) in another “stay busy” fight on the “Christy Martin Fight Night” card, presented by Christy Martin Promotions, at Centerstage@Noda in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Last November 30^th, Rivera fought in Charlotte for the first time, knocking out local favorite Joshua Robertson in the sixth round. On Feb. 23 he will face veteran Mexican fighter **Jose “Olimpico” Corral** (20-23, 12 KOs) in a scheduled six-round bout to be contested at a 187-pound catch-weight.

The Puerto Rican-American fighter didn’t have many supporters last time around but, based on his impressive performance, he won some fans over to his side, and he fully intends to add more this trip.

“Fighting there the first time was an interesting experience,” Rivera said. “I had some mixed emotions, but the fans there showed me a lot of love. People came up to me after the fight saying how much they enjoyed watching me fight. It was a good experience for me. I beat up a local fighter, but they want me back, and I’m going there to get the job done again.

“The plan is for me to have more fights this year to increase my ring experience. I feel more confident each fight. All I’m lacking is experience in big fights and that’s coming. The more confident I become in the ring helps me focus better on what I’m doing in there.

“I’ve had a few obstacles along the way, but I love boxing and fighting as ‘Popeye’. I wake up every morning ready to go.”

Rivera (9-0, 8 KOs), the reigning Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) All America light heavyweight champion, is part of a trio that formed Hartford Boxing Promotions (HBP) ultimo anno, which also includes Rivera’s manager/head trainer **Tony Blanco** and their other partner, **Michael Tran**.

Blanco noted that this fight for Rivera has added importance. “We’re talking to a big promoter about a deal to co-promote Richard,” Blanco explained. “So, he has to look good February 23^rd in Charlotte. He has the right combination of talent and marketability that fans love.

“Going to Charlotte to fight the first time was a good experience. They liked and respected him so much that he’s heading back by popular demand. We really love Christy, to be honest. She has already asked if Richard would fight on a card that she’s promoting in March in Jacksonville, Florida.”

Martin feels the same way about Team Rivera. “He’s an awesome kid,” she added. “He’s talented, a solid pro in the ring, and very charismatic outside the ring. Fans here love him as a fighter and person. I’ve been saying ‘Popeye’ is coming back and fans here are excited.

“And now he’s stepped out of his comfort zone, fighting outside of New England, in front of different crowds, and against fighters with different styles The sky’s the limit for him. I think he’s the real deal.”

Nullam at sunt precii $70.00 (ringside) atque $35.00 (general admission and available to purchase at the venue.

At ianuae 6 p.m. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ATQUE.

Omnia subiecta sunt pugnatores ad bella et mutatio.

**DELATURA;**
Facebook: /hartfordboxingcenter, /christymartinpromotions
Twitter: @hartfordboxing, @CMartinBoxing
Instagram: @hartford.boxing.center/, @popeye_the_sailor-man_rivera
Tu Tube: /c/HartfordBoxingCenter

mixta bellicis artibus, MMA, New England Pugnat

CALEB HALL LOOKS TO CONTINUE WIN STREAK AT NEF 38

February 20, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

PRIMUS DE LIBERO: Portland, Maine (February 18, 2019) – New England Pugnat (NEF) will present its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 38: STORMBORN,” on April 27, 2019 at Aura in Portland. The fight promotion just announced the addition of a professional lightweight fight to the card. Caleb Hall capietis Jay Ellis at pugna pondus-CLV libras.

Hall is on a five-fight win streak in the NEF cage going back to his amateur days. His last loss for the promotion was more than four years ago at “NEF 16” against current professional featherweight champion Josh Harvey. Hall closed out his amateur career with three straight wins, including capturing the amateur 145-pound strap.

He continued that success into the professional ranks in 2018. In his pro debut last spring, Hall submitted veteran John Ortolani in the first round with a Von Flu Choke. He followed up that performance with another first round submission, this time over CJ Ewer via D’Arce Choke this past September at “NEF 35.”

Hall cut his teeth on the wrestling mats of Dirigo High School in Dixfield, Maine where he was a two-time state champion. He now represents the Choi Institute based out of Recon Fitness in Portland.

“I am happy to be fighting in Portland at Aura again,” said Hall of the upcoming April 27 bout against Jay Ellis. “I am looking to pick up where I left off in 2018 and continuing my winning streak.”

Artibus mixtus: re-proximo bello NEF, “NEF 38: STORMBORN,” will take place on Saturday, Aprilis 27, 2019 at Aura in Portland, Maine with a bell time of 7 pm. Tickets are on sale now atwww.AuraMaine.com.

pugilatu, Fox, Premier Boxing Propugnatores

FRANCISCO ‘CHIA’ SANTANA TO MAKE PBC DEBUT

February 20, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDER ADDED TO THE TELEVISED UNDERCARD OF PORTER VS. UGAS – LIVE ON FOX – MARCH 9TH**

Ventura, California: February 18, 2019

**Francisco ‘Chia’ Mortis** (25-6-1, 12 KOs) ponam in **Norma** debut on the televised undercard of the **WBC Welterweight World Championship Fight** inter **Shawn Porter** atque **Yordenis Ugas** vivere **Fox** on **March 9th** at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Santana will face Arizona’s **Abel Ramos** (23-3-2, 18 KOs) in what promises to be an action packed battle between two aggressive fighters both coming off victories, with the winner in line to face an opponent from PBC’s deep welterweight stable later this year.

Mortis, who is coming off one of the biggest upsets of 2018 when he defeated **Olympia Aurum Medalist** and world title challenger, **Felix Diaz**, is currently ranked **#14** in **WBC**.

“It’s crazy how much can change in a year.” explains, Mortis.

“Last year at this time I was coming off back to back controversial losses that I felt I had won. My promoter had dropped me. I couldn’t find a fight. I had been out of the ring for a year. It looked like my career was over. I actually landed the Diaz fight because a friend entered me in an online contest to be an alternate fighter for a WBC tournament. The fans voted me in and when a fighter was injured, I was bumped up into the main tournament. I knew no one was giving me a chance to beat Diaz who was the favorite to win the whole tournament but when I’m overlooked that’s when I’m the most dangerous. The win landed me in the WBC’s Top 15 rankings allowing me to now be able to fight for their world title. I believe I am only one or two fights away from that opportunity and no one is going to stand in my way.”

Having worked with several promoters throughout his 14 anno professio curriculo, Santana is happy to be featured on a major **Premier Boxing Propugnatores** event.

“The amount of world class welterweights that PBC has is unreal, including 4 autem 5 current world champions. It’s literally a who’s who of the division. I’m beyond excited to be able to make my PBC debut on Fox in primetime on the undercard of the WBC welterweight title fight. I have nothing but respect for a fellow hard working fighter like Ramos and I expect a war but I intend to make a statement on March 9th and come out victorious.”

Mortis, a Santa Barbara native who lives and trains in Ventura, California atKnuckleHeadz Boxing Gym with trainer, **Joseph “Hoss” Janik**, is a favorite amongst hardcore boxing fans for his relentless in ring style and his fight anyone, alicubi, anytime attitude that has seen him give multiple future world champions all they could handle. In addition, he’s widely considered one of the friendliest fighters in the entire sport.

“I follow the golden rule. Treat others how you want to be treated. I’m a boxer but I’m a also massive boxing fan. Nothing is better than going to the fights and talking boxing with other fans. I’m no different than them. I wake up and run. I go to work all day with an hour commute back and forth. I hit the gym at night. I spend what little time I have left with my family. Then I go to sleep exhausted. I haven’t caught many breaks in this sport but I still haven’t given up on my dream of being a world champion. In life or in boxing, my motto is train, proelium, win. I think that’s something everyone can relate to.”
**FRANCISCO ‘CHIA’ SANTANA CAREER HIGHLIGHTS**

Former WBA International Champion
Has wins over 4 former world champions and challengers
Has a draw against world title challenger, Julian Williams
Has gone the distance with world champions like Jermell Charlo
Has taken the “The” ex 3 different prospects including Eddie Gomez
His 1st round KO of undefeated Kendal Mena was ESPN’s #2 Play of the Day

pugilatu, Fox, Premier Boxing Propugnatores

Errol SPENCE JR. VS. MIKEY GARCIA LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

February 17, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Unbeaten Welterweight World Champion Spence Battles Undefeated Four-Division World Champion Garcia In Historic Showdown On First Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View Event**

**Saturday, March 16 From AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas**
**Tickets On Sale Now at SeatGeek.com**

**Click HIC for Photos from Frank Micelotta/FOX Sports**

**Click HIC for Photos from Andy Samuelson/**
**Premier Boxing Propugnatores**

**Click HIC for FOX Sports Press Conference Video**

**Los Angeles** (February 16, 2019) – Invictum mundi fortissimus welterweight **Jr Errol Spence.** and undefeated four-division champion **Garcia mikey** previewed their upcoming showdown and faced-off live on FOX at a press conference in Los Angeles Saturday as they near their battle for pound-for-pound supremacy that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, March 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Spence and Garcia were joined on stage at the press conference by a living legend,**Thomas “Hitman” Hearns**, who won titles in five weight divisions and fought Sugar Ray Leonard in one of the most memorable welterweight fights in history.

The event also featured an interview via satellite with Dallas Cowboys Owner, President and General Manager **Jerry Jones**, who shared his thoughts on the electrifying event coming to AT&T Stadium, before Spence and Garcia were gifted personalize Cowboys jerseys by two Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.

Tickets for the March 16 event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, es nunc in venditionem, and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

Also in attendance at the press conference were undefeated former 168-pound champion **David Benavidez** and heavyweight fan-favorite **Chris Arreola**, who compete on the PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View undercard as Benavidez battles veteran contender **Amor J'Leon**, while Arreola matches up against unbeaten **Jean Pierre Augustin**.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Saturday from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Ago:

**Errol SPENCE JR.**

“I train old school so I don’t worry about how Mikey is planning to get stronger at the weight. I’m not worried about it and I don’t think it will make a difference in the fight. I’m just going to focus on what I have to do to be at my best.

“Size always matters, but when you get in there, at the end of the day, it’s about skills and intelligence. I’m not going to rely on size. I’m going to focus on my talent. If I can roll through him, then I’ll show my killer instinct and try to get him out of there. I’m going to use my ability to break him down.

“At first I thought he was just chasing my name when he was calling me out. Once it became real, I saw how serious he was. At that point I was very confident it would happen.

“I’m not the bully here because Mikey really pushed for the fight. The other champions weren’t available at the time, plus Mikey is the only top fighter who called me out. I knew this was a fight I wanted.

“Mikey is undefeated, has a great skill set and has won a title at 140-pounds. I don’t see him as that small a fighter. He has a technical style that’s very traditional. He likes to use angles to set his opponent’s up.

“We’re focused on what I can do and what our game plan is. I always spar the same people no matter what because they get me into the condition I need to be in and they have me primed for any challenge.

“The welterweight division has always been one of the strongest divisions in the sport and it is like that now. We just need to fight each other. I’m ready to fight any of them. Whoever ends up on top from this group, will end being a Hall of Famer. That’s how you become an all-time great.

“This is something I’ve been waiting for my whole life. I’m focused and prepared for this challenge. It’s going to be all eyes on me and Mikey in that ring and I can’t wait.

“I’m happy that someone is challenging me. I’ve been looking for an opponent like him. He’s established himself in this sport. I’m happy to be able to take on this challenge. I’m looking for a skillful Mikey Garcia to bring the best out of me on March 16.

“My vision is that my hand will be raised in victory, whether it’s a knockout or a 12-round grueling fight, I’m preparing for the best Mikey Garcia skill wise, strength wise and as far as his ring intelligence.”

**GARCIA Mikey**

“These are the kinds of challenges I want. I need someone like Errol Spence Jr., with his demeanor and style, to bring the best out of me. I want the world to finally see the full Mikey Garcia.

“The training that we did in the Bay Area definitely helped me. We are going up in weight and needed to do a different type of training. We wanted to make sure that we gained a little bit of mass so that I can be able to hold off Errol Spence’s weight and strength.

“The key to my strength training was that we didn’t want to lose my speed and explosiveness. I can see now that I’m back in sparring that I still have that speed while also gaining the muscle we had to.

“If people say Errol is bigger, that’s just obvious. But who’s faster? Who has better timing? There’s a lot more that goes into this sport and who’s going to win this particular fight.

“This has been one of the toughest camps I’ve ever had. We’re working on a lot of different methods and techniques to be at our very best. He’s going to be bigger than me on fight night, but that’s part of the challenge. I’ve know that since the beginning and that’s why we’ve trained the way we have.

“When I saw him fight Lamont Peterson I decided that Errol Spence Jr. was the fight I wanted one day. People tried to talk me out of it, but now they’re all on board. People have now started to see what I’m going to be capable of on March 16.

“I want the best Errol Spence Jr. I know he’s a great fighter with a lot of skills and talent. He hasn’t needed to use all of his skills, just like me. He does everything well, but nothing spectacular. I just feel like I’m the better fighter. I think I have the advantage everywhere except maybe power, but we’ll find out on fight night.

“This is history in the making. I’m trying to establish a great legacy. This is the kind of fight that I need. I know my fans are going to show up and give me a lot of support. This fight truly excites me and motivates.

“I’m not going to let this fight slip away. I’m going to establish myself as one of the best of the generation and eventually one of the best of all time.

“Even though some people believe I’m the underdog, I don’t see myself that way. I’m undefeated and I think Errol knows that I pose a challenge. It’s no easy task for either one of us. This is the fight that I need for my legacy.”

**DERRICK IACOBUM, Spence Instructus est scriptor**

“This fight is all about the skillset, not the size. Size will come into play a little bit, but we’re going to show the skillset that we have to beat this guy. That’s what Errol is going to show.

“Mikey Garcia has a good technical style. But there’s always a method to take down a great fighter. I think that a day like today will inspire us even more to work even harder. We can see him right in front of us. Its real and we can’t wait.

“When I first saw Errol we were actually sparring each other. We started working together and I got to see him walk through guy after guy. We knew he was a great athlete, but it took time to build to where I started to realize he was something special.”

**Robert Garcia, Garcia’s Brother & Instructus**

“This is a big challenge for us to go up in weight to fight the best welterweight in the world. But it’s not like its’ never been done before and I know Mikey has the skills and power to pull it off. That’s what we’re coming to Dallas to do.

“This is an opportunity for Mikey to continue building his legacy. He wants to be known as one of the greatest fighters of all time and a win over Errol Spence Jr. is a big step toward that.

“I don’t think they’ve overlooking Mikey. “They know the talent he has. They’re getting ready for a great fight like they’ve done before. I think they know that they’re in for a real fight.”

**David Benavidez**

“I’m back here in this stage and that’s all that matters. I’m living and learning. I can’t wait to be in position to again fight for the world title.

‘I actually sparred with J’Leon Love when I was 15-years-old. He’s a great fighter who’s a veteran. I’m not overlooking him. I’m training for this fight like it’s a world title fight. Whatever style he comes with, I’m going to be ready for it.

“I’m better than ever. Everything has been a lesson learned. I had to sit out while I lost my spot, so now I’m more motivated than ever. This year we’re leaving the past in the past and coming back stronger.”

**Chris ARREOLA**

“I’m excited to be back. It was a long layoff where I spent time with my son and watched him grow. I missed that feeling of being in front of fans and getting that nervous energy right before a fight.

“I’m anticipating and I’m hoping for a rowdy crowd on March 16. There will be a lot of Spence and Garcia fans and a whole lot of great fights. Us Mexicans, we love fights.

“I know that my opponent is a southpaw and he’s slick. He’s going to try to out box me. I know he’s not going to want to stay in my wheelhouse. I have to be in shape to go the distance and be ready for shots coming from different angles.”

**JERRY JONES, Dallas Cowboys Owner, President and General Manager**

*On hosting Spence and Garcia at separate Cowboys home games last season:*
“It was just good to rub elbows with champions. I want all that they have to rub off on me and the Dallas Cowboys.

“The fact that FOX is involved and their interest in this fight is amazing. We’ve had great events with FOX, including the Super Bowl. Our stadium was really built for boxing. These fighters will be standing 70 feet tall suspended above the ring on the video board. It’s an excellent way to feel like you’re so close you’re receiving the blows from these great fighters.

“We’re so excited for our Mexican-American fan base. This is a great area for boxing. We endear ourselves to be involved with an event like this in anyway the Cowboys can. Especially with two great fighters like Spence and Garcia.

“I think you’ll see a fight with outstanding champions involved on March 16. You don’t get to see the best against the best very often. At AT&T Stadium, you’ll see it in a way that can’t be matched at normal sports venues. The aura of having thousands of fans like at a football game is unmatched. It’s a grand experience and we’re proud to be a part of boxing.”

**RICARDUS Schaefer, Praesidem & CEO de ludis Ringstar**

“The winner of this fight will be pound-for-pound the best in the world. Everybody would agree both of these guys are near the top of that list, and I believe whoever wins will be number one. This is a coronation for who is today the king of the sport.

“Mikey Garcia is technically one of the best fighters in the world. Jr Errol Spence. is a strong, determined fighter who just wants to prove that he’s the best. This fight is a chance for both guys to prove they’re the best in the world.”

**TOM BROWN, Praeses TGB Promotions**

“This is a true blockbuster event, worthy of this incredible press conference live on FOX. These two fighters are not only superstars of the sport, but the winner of this fight will be able to make the claim of being number one pound-for-pound.

“FOX and the Dallas Cowboys have given a tremendous amount of support to this event and we anticipate an unforgettable evening on March 16. Mikey Garcia is truly daring to be great against a fighter in Errol Spence Jr. who has established himself as the class of the 147-pound division.”

# # #

***ABOUT SPENCE VS. GARCIA***
Spence nobis. Garcia is a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event that is headlined by unbeaten IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol Spence Jr. defending his title against four-division world champion Mikey Garcia on Saturday, March 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View undercard will feature undefeated former super middleweight champion David Benavidez battling veteran contender J’Leon Love, unbeaten former bantamweight champion Luis Nery taking on former champion McJoe Arroyo and fan-favorite Chris Arreola facing unbeaten Jean Pierre Augustin.

Pro magis notitia: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, HT
tp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage atque www.foxdeportes.com, on Twitter sequiPremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, FOXSports, FOXDeportes, @Ringstar, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports &www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

**About AT&T Stadium:**
APUD&T Stadium is one of the largest, most technologically advanced entertainment venues in the world. Designed by HKS and built by Manhattan Construction, autem $1.2 billion stadium features two monumental arches, the world’s largest HDTV video board cluster, an expansive retractable roof and the largest retractable end zone doors in the world. Features of the stadium include seating for 80,000 and expandability for up to 100,000, super 300 luxury suites, club seating on multiple levels and the Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop, open to the public year round. The stadium is also home to a world-class collection of contemporary art, made up of over 50 pieces from an international array of curated artists displayed on the walls and in the grand public spaces of the venue. In addition to being the Home of the Dallas Cowboys since opening in 2009, the stadium has hosted Super Bowl XLV, autem 2010 NBA All Star Game, autem 2014 NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four, autem 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship Game and the annual Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. The venue has also played host to high school and college football, concerts, championship fights, international soccer matches, and other special events. Pro magis notitia, ire ad www.attstadium.com.

mixta bellicis artibus, MMA, New England Pugnat

JAKE BAGLEY AFTER DAZZLING MMA DEBUT: “I PLAN ON DOING BIG THINGS”

February 17, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Portland, Maine (February 16, 2019)—Jake “The Bull” Bagley has had a mythical reputation within the Maine wrestling community for well over a decade, but when he made his mixed martial arts (MMA) debut at “NEF 37: Sub Zero” on February 1^st in Bangor, a whole new legion of fans learned his name—fight fans. That’s because Bagley, a multiple-time state champion wrestler, brought the house down in his back-and-forth, fist-tastic battle with Canada’s Brady Macdonald. Bagley discussed his NEF MMA debut recently with Bryan Stackpole and Ryan Jarrell on the Between Rounds Radio podcast.

Bagley, now 25-years-old, grew-up wrestling for perennial powerhouse Noble High School in North Berwick, Maine, where he won two state championships. During his time on the mat, Bagley earned a reputation as a relentless competitor that never hesitated to bump up in weight to face the toughest challengers he could find at both the state and national levels. Blessed with a relentless desire to constantly test his abilities, Bagley’s interests naturally progressed to MMA at a young age.

“When I was 15, I believe I was a sophomore, I heard there was cage fighting going on in Berwick, Maine,” Bagley told Stackpole and Jarrell. “I went down and checked it out and that’s the first day I met Bill Jones. I was 15-years-old and I walked into Hall Brother’s Roofing and they’re out there behind a storage unit place, in a garage bay training. Ever since that day, Bill’s been kicking my ass and pushing me to it. In the last couple of months, I finally got serious about it and decided to do it.”

Bagley’s NEF debut earlier this month came against a fighter that had proven himself to be a wrestler’s kryptonite. Canada’s Brady Macdonald needed only 15-seconds to force multiple-time New Hampshire state champion Greg Waterbury to tap when he debuted with the promotion in June 2018. Early into his bout with Bagley, it looked like history might repeat itself when Macdonald was able to secure Bagley’s back during the first round. Bagley, tamen, would have none of it.

“He caught me with that first overhand right right at the beginning of the fight and then it clicked—I realized I was in a fight,” Bagley recounted. “My adrenaline went up. I couldn’t have been happier. It was everything that I was looking for.”

Bagley fought off the choke and then, the fight was on. A frenetic, high-paced free-for-all followed that had all 1200 fans in the building on their feet.

“As soon as I realized how hard he could hit, I had no fear—I was going forward,” Bagley stated.

“I didn’t realize how many times he actually hit me until I saw the video,” Bagley continued. “That’s a big thing—I need to keep my hands up.”

One of the most dangerous moments of the fight for Bagley came when he found himself caught in a deep heel hook.

“I look at the video now and I see my foot facing down and my knee facing up and it definitely hurt,” Bagley explained. “He had it in there tight and I’m glad I got through it.”

“I didn’t notice anybody but Brady that night. When I was in there I couldn’t hear coaches yelling, I couldn’t hear fans yelling. It was awesome. It was pure focus because I knew if I wasn’t focusing he was going to catch me like I was catching him.”

Autem, a couple of weeks removed from his head-turning debut, the bumps and bruises have healed, but for Bagley—and the fans that were fortunate enough to witness it—the magic of the moment has not been forgotten.

“I’ve wrestled on a couple of national stages, but the emotion and the stuff after that fight… I still feel it today,” Bagley said.

"Hoc sentit prodigiosus,” he continued. “I’ve always been a competitor and I’ve always trained my entire life. I didn’t do much the last five years—I had a couple of kids and started a family. When I just got back into the gym it was like riding a bike. Once I get going, there’s not going to be anybody to stop me.”

Once again fully committed to a competition lifestyle, Bagley is ready to start racking up the wins the same way he did on the wrestling mat.

“I feel that now that I’m in it, I have that drive and motivation that I don’t think many people are going to be able to compete with,"He said. “I’ve got unnatural athletic ability and my determination is going to be hard to match—I don’t care who you are.”

“I will fight anybody that wants to accept a fight with me,” he continued. “That’s how I feel. If I want to be the best, I’m going to go against the best. I’ll take on anybody right now.”

“I plan on doing big things.”