NEW
YORK (January 16, 2019) — Split-T Management is proud to announce the signing
of 21-time National Amateur Champion, Otha Jones III to
a managerial contract.
The
18 year-old Toledo native was among the top talents in the United States, as he
compiled a staggering 283-13 amateur record, highlighted by representing
Team USA in several international tournaments including winning a Gold Medal at
the International Youth Continental Americas Tournament and Silver Medal
at the Emil Jechev Memorial Tournament as well as winning several national
tournaments, such as the winning gold medals in United States National
Championships (Twice) and the World Championship Qualifier.
Jones,
who was also a four-time State Wrestling Champion, was influenced to sign with
Split-T Management because of what the company has done for his gym mates.
“After
seeing the hard work and dedication and excellence that Split-T Management has
shown to my teammates Charles Conwell and Isaiah Steen, I definitely could not
think of signing with anyone else,” said Jones. Split-T is
definitely the best management team in boxing. I am honored to be a part of the
team.”
Jones’
dad, also named Otha, shares the same sentiments as his son.
“Based
upon the quality of boxers that Split-T Management has signed, and been
successful at moving, it was just a natural progression that I would sign my
son with them,” said the elder Otha.
Split-T
Management feels that Jones will captivate the boxing world because of his fan
friendly style that is reminiscent of fellow Ohio native, Aaron Pryor, as he
fights aggressively while throwing nonstop punches from all different angles
with power.
Said
Tim Van Newhouse of Split-T Management, “At a conventional or southpaw
stance, Otha is a relentless pressure fighter, who is composed beyond his
years, with a dynamic blend of aggression, speed and power.
“Otha
Jones is one of the most exciting fighters we have ever signed,” Said
Split-T Management CEO, David McWater. “l will never forget the first time
that I saw him on tape, or the first time I saw him live. I knew right away
this kid had everything. He’ is exactly the kind of athlete I got into this
business to represent.”
There
will be a major announcement Jones’ future very soon.
Former Four-Division World Champion Broner Takes on Welterweight Champion Manny Pacquiao Saturday, January 19 on SHOWTIME PPV®
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas
Click HERE for Photos from Nabeel Ahmad/Premier Boxing Champions
LAS VEGAS (January 15, 2019) – With fight week underway in Las Vegas, former
four-division world champion Adrien
“The Problem” Broner hosted
a media workout Monday before he battles Manny
Pacquiao for the World Boxing
Association Welterweight World Title Saturday, January 19 in the main event of
a SHOWTIME PPV® event
from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Tickets
for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and
TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now
and start at $100, not including
applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge
by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box
office.
Broner,
along with trainer Kevin
Cunningham, have been at Barry’s Boxing in Las Vegas finishing up training
camp after spending most of camp in West Palm Beach, Florida preparing to face
boxing’s only eight-division world champion in Pacquiao. Here is what they had
to say Monday at Barry’s Boxing:
ADRIEN BRONER
“Every
fighter is different, but I know if I touch him flush, I’ll put him out. It’s
no secret, he’s been to sleep before.
“I’m
in shape and ready to go. We had a tremendous training camp. I could have made
weight weeks ago. We’re prepared to go out and execute.
“I’ve
been here before, and even though I haven’t been in a fight of exactly this
magnitude, I’m just treating it like any other fight. He’s another opponent.
“A
lot of people are saying that Pacquiao’s age will be a factor, but I’m not
looking at it like that. You see guys like Floyd Mayweather who stay undefeated
at an older age. I’m just focused on being me. As long as I do what I have to
do, I will be victorious.
“We’re
ready for whatever this fight is going to end up being. It could definitely be
a war. I’ve always been an underdog. I came from the trenches and I’m bringing
that mentality into the ring.
“I
can take over boxing with a win over Pacquiao. There are a lot of great
fighters in this sport, but they just don’t bring what I bring to the table.
With a win like this, it would put me right where I was always meant to be.
“I’ve
always wanted to fight the big names like this and I knew that I just had to
keep working hard and the time would come.
“Once
that bell rings, I’ll make my adjustments and go ahead and get my victory. I
don’t have anything I want to go out and prove. It’s just about winning. That
will say everything.”
KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Broner’s Trainer
“Preparation
has been great. Camp has been tremendous. Adrien is ready to go and extremely
focused for this fight. He came into camp that way and it’s stayed that way.
“We
added some things this training camp, because we know he’s fighting a legendary
fighter. This is one that he has to have and he realizes it. I expect a
spectacular performance.
“I
think on Saturday night that Adrien is going to be that guy that everyone
expected him to be from day one. It will open a lot of eyes. I believe that we
put the work in. I can’t see Adrien coming out of there without a victory.
“The
key to victory is for Adrien to just be himself. He has to do what he does best
with no hesitation. He’s going to throw the right punches at the right time.
“Pacquiao
still throws combinations but they don’t come in as fast or as sharp as they
used to. He can throw as many punches as he wants to throw, but if they’re not
landing, it doesn’t mean anything.
“I
think Adrien is the quicker fighter. Quickness offsets speed, all day, every
day. It’s all about being quick enough to time the guy with your hand speed.
It’s different than just throwing a bunch of fast punches.”
# # #
ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BRONER
Pacquiao
vs. Broner is headlined by Senator
Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion,
ending his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight
World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction
Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, January 19 in the main event of
a SHOWTIME PPV® event
from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The PPV
begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature two-division world champion
Badou Jack battling unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA
Interim Light Heavyweight Title, former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking
on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship
and unbeaten WBA Interim Featherweight Champion Jhack Tepora defending against
former world champion Hugo Ruiz.
Undefeated Brandon Figueroa Defeats Moises Flores in Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator; Rising Star Joey Spencer Continues Knockout Streak
Premier Boxing Champions Prelims Showcase Early Knockout Victories by Guillermo Rigondeaux, Ahmed Elbiali and Lindolfo Delgado
Click HERE for PhotosPhoto Credit: Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions
Click HERE for PhotosPhoto Credit: Luis Mejia/TGB Promotions
LOS ANGELES (January 13) – The challenger proved to be the aggressor as Caleb Plant became the IBF Super Middleweight World Champion, defeating Jose Uzcategui in the main event of the first Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes event of 2019, which took place at the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles. Plant dominated the whole fight as he maintained a fast and aggressive pace from the opening bell.
With
scores of 116-110 twice and 115-111 in favor of Plant, the freshly crowned
champion, Plant fell to his knees overcome with emotion when he heard “and the
new!”.
“I’ve
worked my whole entire life for this,” said Plant. “I buried my daughter in the
process of trying to get this belt. I promised I would bring her this title and
that is what I am going to do.”
The
super middleweight barnburner started out strong with both combatants throwing
exchanges, but Plant did everything in his power to never back down. Uzcategui
threw hard right hands to start the second round, but Plant quickly turned the
round in his favor as he knocked Uzcategui to the canvas with a flurry of
punches, only the third time Uzcategui had been knocked down in his career. A
small cut opened under the left eye of Uzcategui to start the third, but he
fought through it and fended off Plant’s aggression. One minute into the fourth
round, a cut opened up under Plant’s right eye causing blood to stream. That
did not stop the Nashville native as threw a hard left hook that once again
sent Uzcategui to the canvas.
As
the fight progressed, the Venezuelan was unable to utilize his distance, thus
allowing Plant to fight on the inside. Despite good exchanges in the seventh
and eighth, it became increasingly clear that Uzcategui would need a knockout
to hold onto his belt. Uzcategui flipped a switch in the championship rounds
and came forward, throwing hard blows to the body and head of Plant. But it was
too little too late for Uzcategui as Plant’s ring generalship controlled the
pace of the fight, ultimately ending in a unanimous decision.
“I
knew I caught him clean [when I knocked down Uzcategui], but I knew he wasn’t
all the way out so I took my time,” continued Plant. “I stayed relaxed. I stuck
to the game plan and got it done just like I said I would.
“This
is overwhelming. I am a kid who came from nothing. I believed in myself and now
I’ve been crowned king. Right now, I am not thinking ahead. I just want to
embrace this moment and soak it in.”
“I
did feel that I had the advantage heading into the fight,” said Uzcategui. “I
went down because I was off balance, but I wasn’t hurt. He started to get tired
around the sixth round, which was the plan. Caleb knew how to clench and hold.
He was smart. He knew how to stay away from the punches.
“I
expected more movement and more boxing out of him,” continued Uzcategui. “I
would love the rematch. I think everyone saw a great fight tonight. I gave him
the chance at the title and I would hope he would give me the chance to win it
back.”
Unbeaten
Brandon Figueroa (18-0, 13 KOs) of Weslaco, Texas faced former world title
challenger Moises Flores (25-2, 17 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mex. in a WBA Super
Bantamweight title eliminator. Figueroa wasted no time attacking Flores in
round one as he came forward and threw several hard lefts followed by a body
shot that seemed to surprise Flores. With 30 seconds left in the round,
Figueroa went for the body and worked Flores on the inside. While Flores seemed
to find his footing at the start of round three, Figueroa unleashed a flurry of
punches that sent Flores to the canvas once and then a second time that ended
the fight at 1:35 of the third round.
“Break
him down and finish him,” said Figueroa “This is exactly how I expected it to
go. I knew that he wasn’t going to handle those body shots. My message to
Daniel Roman is that I am going to go home and prepare.
“I
used that body work,” continued Figueroa. “I am really strong. I came in at 110
percent and did my job. I could have done better. I am really hard on myself. I
know there are things I can continue to work on and will do that as soon as I
get home. I am most definitely ready for a title shot.”
Fast-rising
undefeated star and PBC Prospect of 2018 Joey Spencer (6-0, 6 KOs) of Linden,
Mich., continued his impressive knockout streak as he defeated Brandon Harder
(2-2, 1 KO) of Southaven, Miss., in a super welterweight contest that saw
Spencer knocking down Harder three times in less than two rounds. The
18-year-old Spencer, who fought 100 fights as an amateur, established his jab
early and landed at will. He threw and landed a straight right at the end of
round one that sent Harder to his knees. Forty-five seconds into round two,
Spencer sent Harder to the canvas again followed by a swarm of punches that
ended the fight at 1:27 of the round.
“Fans
are going to see that I give it my all when I get in the ring and I’m going to
put on a show,” said Spencer. “You’re going to get more and more tests in my
career and I believe I will rise to the level of my competition. Sometimes
you’re in there with an awkward guy, he proves to be a test. I’ll move to six
rounds for my next fight. I want to fight four times this year and I’m looking
forward to it.”
The
Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS1 featured three bouts that all ended in
exciting knockout victories, kicking off a great night of fights.
The
Prelim telecast featured the long-awaited ring return of Guillermo Rigondeux
(18-1, 12 KOs) who hadn’t fought since December 2017. The Cuban fan-favorite
faced Giovanni Delgado of Tacubaya, Mex. (16-9, 9 KOs) and knocked him out in
the last second of round one with an overhand left. Delgado could not be saved
by the 10 count and the fight was called in favor of Rigondeux.
“This
is my division. This is my time,” said Rigondeaux. “I am the king of 122
pounds. I felt 100 percent. Delgado is a good fighter. I take my hat off to him
and his team. I came prepared and I am ready to face people that are
undefeated. Whoever has a belt, I am taking it. You can expect me back in less
than two months.”
“I
fought my idol tonight,” said Delgado. “I knew he hit hard, but I didn’t know
he hit that hard. I have been cleared by the doctor and am fine. Just a little
bit in shock.”
A
scheduled eight-round light heavyweight bout featuring Egypt’s Ahmed Elbiali
(18-1, 15 KOs) against 16-year veteran Allan Green (33-6, 22 KOs) of Tulsa, OK
saw Elbiali knock Green down in every round. However, Green did showcase his
experience choosing to go toe-to-toe despite Elbiali’s aggression. Ultimately,
it was a right uppercut followed by an overhand right that sent Green to the
canvas as Elbiali scored a knockout at 1:16 of round three.
“I
was easier than I thought it was going to be,” said Elbiali. “Losing to Pascal
the way I did, it messes with you mentally. I was trying to stay on my A-game.
Stay focused and thankfully it showed. My game plan clicked really well. I have
been sparring with Caleb (Plant) and other great guys. That keeps you sharp and
alert. I would love to win a world title and be the first Egyptian win a world
championship.”
In
the opening bout of the Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS1, Mexican
Olympian Lindolfo Delgado (8-0, 8 KOs) of Linares, Mex. continued his
professional knockout streak as he defeated Sergio Lopez (22-13-1, 15 KOs) of
West Covina, CA via knockout at 2:48 of the third round. Delgado has yet to
fight 30 rounds in his eight fights as a professional. He was clearly the
aggressor throughout the fight and landed almost 50 percent of his power
punches.
All
PBC on FOX Sports events and programming is streamed live on the FOX
Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX, FS1 or FOX
Deportes feeds. In addition, FOX Sports Digital will have a dedicated
FOXSports.com and FOX Sports App page for PBC coverage, in addition to
dedicated YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels.
FOX
Sports is the umbrella entity representing 21st Century FOX’s wide array of
multi-platform US-based sports assets. Built with brands capable of reaching
more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, FOX Sports includes
ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile
programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses
and several licensing partnerships. FOX Sports includes the sports television
arm of the FOX Broadcasting Company; FS1, FS2; FOX Sports Regional Networks, their
affiliated regional web sites and national programming; FOX Soccer Plus; FOX
Deportes and FOX College Sports. In addition, FOX Sports also encompasses FOX
Sports Digital, including FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports app. Also included
in the Group are FOX’s interests in joint-venture businesses Big Ten Network
and BTN 2Go, as well as a licensing agreement that established the FOX Sports
Radio Network.
About Premier Boxing Champions
The
Premier Boxing Champions series was created and is produced by Haymon Sports,
LLC. It features the most accomplished and decorated array of international
professional boxing talent across the most popular weight divisions.
SHREVEPORT – January 12, 2019 – Devin Haney passed the biggest test of his young career Friday night on ShoBox: The New Generation, kicking off the 2019 boxing year with a dazzling performance and unanimous decision victory over fellow undefeated former South African champion Xolisani Ndongeni live on SHOWTIME from StageWorks of Louisiana.
Haney (21-0, 13 KOs) scored a second-round knockdown and wore Ndongeni (25-1, 13 KOs) down with punishing body shots in the latter part of the fight in winning easily on all three judges’ scorecards, 100-89 twice, and 99-90. See the second-round knockdown HERE.
Haney told SHOWTIME’s Steve Farhood in the ring after the fight he only wants to be considered a contender from here on out. “I want those top guys,” he said. “Now they really can’t deny me. I’ve been saying this for a long time but now, I’m a contender.” See the post-fight interview HERE.
The knockdown came at 1:30 of the second round as a Haney right hand landed flush knocking the unbalanced Ndongeni to the canvas. But it was Haney’s body shots that wore out the stubborn Ndongeni, who was fighting in the United States for just the second time. Haney badly wanted to end the fight with a knockout, even telling his father Bill Haney between rounds, “I’m going to knock him out!”
“He’s a great fighter,” said Haney, who with the victory takes home the WBO Intercontinental and WBC International belts. “You don’t make it to 25-0 without being anybody. I knew it was going to be tough opponent from the very beginning. He’s a really good fighter and I didn’t choose him. That was the opponent that came up and you know me, I don’t turn down anybody. I fight whoever comes in front of me.”
Farhood said 2019 could be the year Haney fights for a world title. “I’m impressed because he showed a side of himself that we hadn’t seen before,” the International Boxing Hall of Famer Farhood said. “For a young fighter, although he’s very skilled, you want to see him handle all kinds of situations. He went to the body effectively and if the fight goes 30 seconds longer he gets the stoppage. Is a world title fight in 2019 a possibility? Certainly. Just because he’s 20 doesn’t mean he’s not good enough. It’s clear there’s no one that’s going to out-box him.”
Farhood finally gave Ndongeni a round for the first time in the seventh as he used some effective body work to control the round, although never visibly hurting Haney or putting him in too much danger.
As the fight went deeper and deeper, Haney just kept getting stronger. In the final two rounds, he led 69-28 on overall landed punches (16-6 jabs and 53-22 power). In the final minute of the final round, Haney out-landed Ndongeni 23-3 in total connects.
“I’m getting stronger with each fight and I feel my man strength emerging,” Haney said. “Ndongeni is a very durable fighter. I attribute his big heart for keeping him in the fight. I knew I was the superior fighter. I showed everyone I can fight coming forward, I can box, I can bang, I do it all. I’m ready…no one is stopping me.”
In a battle of undefeated Rubens, former decorated amateur Ruben Villa (15-0, 5 KOs) handed Colombian Ruben Cervera (10-1, 9 KOs) his first career defeat scoring a dominating unanimous decision, 80-72 on all three scorecards in the eight-round featherweight co-feature bout. See fight highlights HERE.
The 21-year-old two-time Junior Olympic National Champion and the 2014 and 2015 National Golden Gloves Champion from Salinas, Calif., Villa outworked and outperformed the slower but determined Cervera en route to a decisive decision victory.
“It felt good fighting on the big stage and I got the victory against a very tough undefeated fighter,” the one-time Olympic alternate Villa said. “I felt I controlled the entire fight with my superior boxing skills. I’m ready to step up to the next level. I’m taking on all comers no matter who they are, I feel I’m the best featherweight in the world.”
In the sixth round, Villa got to work featuring a strong right hand and following up with jabs and combinations that seemed to buzz Cevera, who was out-landed on punches in the round 35-5.
The jab was the key weapon for Villa as he led 105-23 in connects as well as holding a 36 percent to eight percent advantage in jab accuracy. Villa exceeded double-digits in jabs in every round but the first.
The lefty Villa said visiting Riverside and spending time with noted trained Robert Garcia has helped his game. “I’ll give myself an 8 or 9 tonight,” he said. “I believe in my speed. I know there are guys like [Abner] Mares and [Leo] Santa Cruz who people know, but visiting Riverside let me see I can step in there with anyone.”
Cevera became the 182nd career fighter to lose his undefeated record on ShoBox. “I knew Ruben Villa was a very fast fighter because I saw some video of him, but I didn’t know he was that fast,” Cervera said. “He’s much faster when you see him inside the ring. I tried everything I could but my distance was off. I was able to hit them with a couple of combinations and he probably felt my power. I don’t disagree with the judges’ decision, he was the better man tonight.”
In the telecast opener, Cuban heavyweight Frank Sanchez (11-0, 9 KOs) overcame a 14-minute delay between the first and second rounds knocking out former college football player Willie Jake, Jr. (8-2-1, 2 KOs) at 2:59 of the second round. Both fighters sat calmly on their stools as local promoters worked to repair two of the ropes that had fallen from their post. See fight highlights HERE.
After controlling the action in the first round, Frank’s raw punches simply overpowered the heavier Jake, catching him with a glancing right to the head and a cuffing hook to the body that caused Jake to fall face-first to the canvas and the fight was waved off with just one second remaining in the second round.
Sanchez was the more accurate fighter landing 39 percent of his power shots to Jake’s 25 percent. He also outlanded the Indianapolis native in total connects (28-15) and in landed power shots (20-14).
“I wanted to show the world that I’m the new Cuban boxing sensation,” said Sanchez, who grew up in Guantanamo, Cuba, and now resides in Miami. “I didn’t let the ring rope delay affect my performance. I was ready to go no matter what happened. My manager the great Richard Steele [former boxing referee] is already putting together my next fight. I’m coming for everyone in the heavyweight division. All contenders better watch out.”
The event was promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. The full telecast will replay on Monday, January 14 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.
Barry Tompkins called the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 79 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.
Former Two-Division World Champion Jack Takes On Unbeaten Marcus Browne for WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV® Event From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
Click HERE for Photos from Leo Wilson/Premier Boxing Champions &
Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/Mayweather Promotions
LAS VEGAS (January 10, 2019) – Former
two-division world champion Badou
Jack hosted a media workout at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas Thursday
as he prepares to take on unbeaten
top contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight
Title Saturday, January 19 on the
Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena
in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Tickets
for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and
TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now
and start at $100, not including
applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge
by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box
office.
A
resident of Las Vegas, Jack is preparing to fight in his adopted home city for
the 11thtime as a pro on January 19. He will be making his third
appearance on SHOWTIME PPV, having won a light heavyweight crown against Nathan
Cleverly in August 2017 on the Mayweather vs. McGregor event.
Here is
what Jack, his trainer Lou Del Valle and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard
Ellerbe had to say Thursday:
BADOU JACK
“I
feel young and like I’m still improving. I take care of my body every day. Age
won’t be a problem for me, it’ll be an advantage.
“I’m
a confident fighter. I don’t need to talk and brag about everything. I’m just
comfortable; inside and outside of the ring.
“I’m
battle-tested. I’ve been in there in tough fights. He hasn’t been tested like
that, so we’ll have to see what he’s capable of when the pressure is on.
“Marcus
Browne is an athletic and skilled fighter. But it’s a little different to fight
on the prospect and contender level versus on this world class level.
“One
of my biggest strengths in the ring is my ability to adjust. My trainer, Lou
Del Valle, has really helped in that regard. He’s been in there as a world
champion like me on the big stage. He knows so much about boxing.
“This
is nothing new to me. I’ve been on a lot of big cards, so this is a regular day
on the job. It’s exciting as always and I can’t wait to put on a good show.
“I
feel like it’s my duty to give back outside of the ring. With this platform
that I have, why wouldn’t I? We should use this platform for something deeper
than boxing.”
On the
Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV main event:
“It’s
a really good fight. Pacquiao looked pretty good in his last fight, but Broner
is very talented. Anything can happen in boxing, especially because Broner has
a good chin and can fight. He just has to stay focused.”
LOU DEL VALLE, Jack’s Trainer
“Camp
has been amazing. Every camp has just been better and better. He has improved
on his weaknesses each time we work together. It’s incredible that a guy who’s
35-years-old can keep performing the way he is and still be getting better.
“We
know that we have to be careful because Marcus is a good fighter. Everyone we
fight at this level is quality. We’re only fighting champions and guys with the
top pedigree. The better the fighter, the better we get.
“I
don’t think that Marcus Browne wants to go the distance with Badou Jack. If you
notice in previous fights, guys who fight Badou are not the same after. He
takes a lot out of them and I think it’s going to happen again. Marcus is going
to go for the early knockout, but we’re ready.
“The
experience gap is a big difference. I had only fought one 10-rounder when I
first fought for the title, but I still thought that I could beat him. The
experience that Virgil Hill had over me was really difficult to overcome and I
think you’ll see something similar play out in this fight.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“I
think that this is going to be a very competitive fight. You have two guys in
this fight that are very hungry. There are a lot of options in the light
heavyweight division, and it’s all about timing. This fight gives both guys a
chance to prove that they want to be the best and make a great statement.
“This
fight has a very good chance of stealing the show. I like the fact that Marcus
is very confident. If you’re in a big fight, you have to be. Badou is
even-keeled, and he comes with his workman-like approach to every fight.
“Experience
is everything in big fights. It’s a big deal when you’re under those lights.
Going the distance with top guys, and knowing how to break guys down, it all
plays a big role in fights like this.”
# # #
ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BRONER
Pacquiao
vs. Broner is headlined by Senator
Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao,boxing’s only eight-division world champion,
ending his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight
World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction
Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, January 19 in the main event of
a SHOWTIME PPV® event
from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The PPV
begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature two-division world champion
Badou Jack battling unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA
Interim Light Heavyweight Title, former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking
on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship
and unbeaten WBA Interim Featherweight Champion Jhack Tepora defending against
former world champion Hugo Ruiz.
SHREVEPORT – January 10, 2019 – Unbeaten lightweight and rising star Devin Haney and fellow undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni both made weight just a day before their ShoBox: The New Generation 10-round main event headlines a tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.
The precocious Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion who turned pro at age 17, headlines on ShoBox for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s 28-year-old Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), who like Haney is unbeaten and spent four months training at the Mayweather Gym in Las Vegas in 2017.
The event is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale now and available at www.akafights.com.
In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) of Salinas, Calif., will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) of Colombia in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez (10-0, 8 KOs) of Cuba and former college football player Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) of Indianapolis, Ind., squaring off in another eight-round bout.
All the fighters weighed at Paradise Theatre located inside Margaritaville Resort Casino.
FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES
Lightweight 10-Round Bout
Devin Haney – 134 ½ lbs.
Xolisani Ndongeni – 134 ¾ lbs.
Referee: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.); Judges: Laurence Cole (Dallas), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)
Featherweight 8-Round Bout
Ruben Villa – 126 ¾ lbs.
Ruben Cervera – 126 ½ lbs.
(Contracted weight is 128 pounds)
Referee: Laurence Cole (Dallas); Judges: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)
Heavyweight 8-Round Bout
Frank Sanchez – 216 ¼ lbs.
Willie Jake Jr. – 239 ½ lbs.
Referee: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.); Judges: Laurence Cole (Dallas), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)
FINAL QUOTES:
DEVIN HANEY:
“This is a 10-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental and WBC International belts, so it’s a big deal. This is a true step up for me.
“It’s important for me build a name in different areas of the country. I’ve fought in Southern California and Philadelphia, and now I’m fighting in Louisiana. This fight I will show who Devin Haney is. In this fight I’ll showcase my skills and I’ll show my full arsenal.
“My style is not a style that people want to fight. I will fight whoever is out there. We haven’t been getting a lot call backs. I’ve had other offers from all the top promotion companies, but I want to remain independent and make my own decisions.
“My opponent has an awkward style. I know he has a lot of confidence and he thinks he can beat me. That’s great for him, but he hasn’t faced anyone with my combination of speed and power.
“At the end of my career I think it would be great if the world continued to say, ‘I don’t know if he can take a punch.’ That would be the goal.”
XOLISANI NDONGENI:
“I’ve trained and sparred with guys at Mayweather’s gym in Las Vegas for four months in 2017. I learned a lot got some great experience.
“I see a young, good prospect in Devin Haney. I just have to keep to my game plan. He doesn’t realize how fast I am. I’ll show some different looks, and know what he’s planning to do. Whatever Haney brings, I’ll adjust.
“I’ve been in some deep waters and I have more rounds than Haney. That experience will pay off for me.
“I’ve been knocked down once in my career. It was early and I came back to knock him down five times and won the fight.
“Haney wants to be called a contender. I’ve been a contender and I know what it takes to be at the top level of the sport. I’ve never taken a fight I wasn’t prepared for or thought that I couldn’t win.”
RUBEN VILLA
“This is exciting and what we’ve been working toward. The contracted weight is 128 for this fight, but I’m a natural featherweight at 126. I’m a southpaw but a natural righty. I throw a lot of jabs, that’s my style.
“I’m representing Salinas and want to be a world champion someday. I’m only 21 years old, and to already be fighting on ShoBox is a dream come true.
“People say I don’t have the knockouts, but it’s in my mind and they will come. The power and knockouts will come.
“I once beat Devin [Haney] by unanimous decision in the amateurs. I was 15, and it was in the finals of the Junior Olympics. Devin’s real slick and aggressive and he moves well. That’s how you beat him.
RUBEN CERVERA
“I’ve never been to the U.S., and I love it here. The press conference and the amount of attention this fight is getting is amazing. I’m used to watching this kind of stuff on T.V. But my mind is totally focused on this fight.
“I have power in all my punches. I’m a strong fighter who has to take a step up in my career. I’m young, only 20 years old, so I’m anxious to get my career going.
“I know Villa is a southpaw. I’ve fought lefties several times in my career and have had no problem with it.
“There is a lot of talent in Colombia, but there aren’t the resources there to have a good career. You have to sacrifice a lot and that’s what I’ve done.”
FRANK SANCHEZ
“I’m 6-foot-4 and use my height to my advantage. I defected from Cuba in 2016 and my family is still in Cuba. My brother is the only one here in the States with me.
“I’m living in Miami now and training there. That will be my home base now.
“I’d love to fight [Deontay] Wilder. I want to be world champion so maybe someday I will. His technique is a little bit wild.
“I had great amateur experience and am a former member of the Cuban national amateur team. I know that will help me. I know there’s never been a heavyweight champion from Cuba, and I plan to be the first one.”
WILLIE JAKE JR.
“Indianapolis is a tough town to be a boxer because there’s not a lot going on there.
“I played college football [for Pasadena City College] but I hurt my wrist and decided to go into the military.
“[Frank] is a little fellow. He needs some maturing. I know they do things differently there in Cuba, but we both are fighting for our families. I’m going to let him know he needs to be a cruiserweight.”
LOS ANGELES (January
10, 2019) – – Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s
only eight-division world champion, and former four-division world champion Adrien
“The Problem” Broner hosted media days in Los Angeles
Wednesday as they near their SHOWTIME PPV® clash taking place Saturday,
January 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted
by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with
About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not
including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through
AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts
International box office.
Pacquiao will end his two-year hiatus from
a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing
Association Welterweight World Title against Broner. Along with co-trainer Buboy
Fernandez and longtime trainer Freddie Roach, Pacquiao
spoke to media and worked out for the cameras at Wild Card Boxing Club.
Broner traveled to Los Angeles from his
current training camp in Las Vegas to talk to media along with his trainer Kevin
Cunningham at Ten Goose Boxing Gym, after spending most of training in
West Palm Beach, Florida.
Here is what the media day participants
had to say from the split-site media day Wednesday:
MANNY PACQUIAO
“My journey in this sport is still
continuing. I’ve accomplished everything I’ve wanted to, but I also want to
continue to keep my name at the top. Even at 40-years-old, I can still show the
best of Manny Pacquiao. I’m going to give the fans the speed and power that
they’re used to seeing.
“I’m sure that Broner is focused on
this fight. They are working hard and I expect him to be in great condition. We
know how his trainer pushes him and has been pushing him in their training
camp.
“I’m not taking this fight lightly. I
don’t listen to any gossip about Adrien Broner, I just focus on my training. I
want to be in 100 percent condition and ready for the fight on January 19.
“Adrien Broner is fast with his hands
and he’s overall a good boxer. This is a big challenge that I’m excited for.
“Me, Freddie and Buboy know each
other well and we have a great coaching staff right now. I’m happy with how
everything has gone in training for this fight.
“Rest and recovery is definitely a
key part of training. Sometimes when I work hard in the gym, my body can’t
fully recover by the next day, so I’ve had to work more rest into the schedule.
But as soon as I can, I’m back in the gym working hard.
“On January 19 I’m going to do my
best. I can’t say a prediction, but I’m going to do the same thing I did for my
last fight. My trainers know how hard I’ve worked in this camp for this win.
“My plan is to take it one fight at a
time. I can’t talk about future fights until I do what I have to on January 19.
You can ask me again after this one.
“This fight means a lot. It’s my
first fight at the age of 40 so I’m excited to give my best and show the world
what I can still do. Boxing is my passion, and public service is my mission. I
love to bring honor to my country.”
ADRIEN BRONER
“Growing up and seeing Pacquiao
fight, of course I always wanted to fight him. I’m a competitor.
One day I want to be the best, and to be the best you have to beat the
best. It starts here.
“This is my first PPV but I was
always supposed to be here. God doesn’t make mistakes. After this
victory, I will be taking over the sport of boxing. This is just the
beginning.
“His last fight he did stop
Matthysse, so I’m pretty sure he still has power. But I’m going to be
ready, I’m going to be ready for whatever he brings to the table. We’re
in shape to get it done, I can tell you that.
“This win makes me an icon.
It makes me what I always wanted to be, and what everybody always thought I
would be. A win here and I’m a legend overnight.
“It’s going to be a hell of a
fight. I just can’t wait till round one. Everybody I fight says
they are going to knock me out. That should be the objective of every
fighter, but that’s not going to happen.
“The sky is the limit for me, but
in boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. You can’t overlook
anybody in this sport. My main focus is Manny Pacquiao and I will be ready.
“A win would mean a lot. It
turns a new page in my book. It’s another beginning. I’m already a
star in boxing, but a win here and I’m taking over the sport. This is
just the beginning.
“It’s not a mystery – he’s been
knocked out before. Not once, not twice, but three times. And he’s
been put down a lot, too. There are many blueprints to beat Manny.
I think I have all the tools to beat him. I will show all the tools in my
arsenal and show all the weaknesses in his.”
BUBOY FERNANDEZ, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer
“I think it’s going to be a knockout.
If Broner opens the door, we’re going to get it early. I’ve seen from previous
fights that he’s a slow starter. So we need to get inside and go first.
“We know that Broner is a good
counter-puncher with a strong right uppercut. Broner is a real fighter and a
smart fighter in the ring.
“I’m happy that Manny has shown that
he moves as well as ever, even at 40-years-old. He’s learning even more now. I
told the team that I think he’s already prepared for this fight.
“We just want him to maintain this
shape and energy level. Manny is 110 percent ready. I don’t think there’s a
fighter who can keep up with what Manny brings.”
FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer
“I can’t wait for this fight. Camp
has been great and he’s been training very well. Everything is back to normal
and he’s looked amazing.
“Manny and I have been together 15
years, so I had no reason to ever be mad at Manny. Everything has worked out
really well and we’re working together as a team right now.
“I’m working on the game plan for
how to fight Broner. He’s a counterpuncher who doesn’t like to come forward too
much. Manny will have to be the aggressor in this fight and use his feints to
trap this guy into making it more of a fight.
“I feel we’re going to see an
aggressive Manny Pacquiao. There’s a rumor that Manny has been telling people
he’s looking for a knockout. I love that attitude. I think his knockout of
Lucas Matthysse was so satisfying and he saw that that’s what the fans really
want. I think that’s going to carry over to this fight.
“Pacquiao and I have a deal. Once
his work ethic drops, I’m going to tell him and he’s agreed he’ll retire. His
work ethic is unbelievable right now. He hasn’t slowed down at all. He hit me
with a shot in the chest two or three days ago, and I’ve never been hit harder
in my life.”
KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Broner’s Trainer
“Everything went tremendous in
Florida. I’ve never seen Adrien this focused and I’ve been around him for
years. He came to camp with a look on his face like this is the one he’s got to
have. He prepared for nine hard weeks and we didn’t miss a beat. Everting was
on point.
“He’s ready. He’s focused. We had
tremendous sparring. Everything went great. We didn’t have any hiccups, any
injuries or setbacks. He’s ready to go and he’s going to look spectacular on
January 19.
“Manny fights with a high punch
volume and he’s aggressive with it. But sometimes he’s reckless with it. Adrien
is a sharp counter-puncher. He gets off first and last. If Adrien comes to the
ring mentally sharp like I know he will, because physically he’s as sharp as
ever, as long as his mind is on point, I think it’s going to be a long night
for Manny and it’s the wrong fight for Manny.
“There’s a lot there to exploit. I
know Manny throws a lot of punches and Adrien doesn’t throw a lot, but this
fight is not about matching Manny’s punch count. This fight is about throwing
the right shots at the right time.
“There’s a big difference in Adrien
from the last camp. He didn’t take Jessie Vargas as seriously as he’s taking
this legendary eight-time world champion in Manny Pacquiao. There were some
things that went on that showed he wasn’t as focused as he is for a fight like
this. He’s just been on point. He’s not screwing around. He’s not looking for
days off to go have a good time. He’s just locked in on Manny Pacquiao.”
Bangor, Maine (January 10, 2019) – New England Fights (NEF) will hold its next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 37: Sub Zero,” on Friday, February 1, 2019 at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor, Maine. Earlier today, the promotion announced the addition of an amateur women’s flyweight fight to the card. Glory Watson (2-0) will take on Rachael Lippert (4-2) at a fight weight of 125-pounds.
Glory Watson made her mark in the NEF
cage in 2018 with wins over Chelsea Tucker and Megan Rosado. It earned
her a nomination in the “Rookie of the Year” category. She was
the runner-up to fellow undefeated amateur rookie Zac Richard (3-0) in fan
voting last month. Watson trains with Young’s MMA in Bangor. The
fight with Lippert will be her first in her hometown.
“I’ve continued to train and challenge
myself since my victory in Portland this past November,” said
Watson. “I’m really excited to finally make my debut in my
hometown to kickstart 2019 with a three-fight run streak over the next three
months! I’m looking forward to my return to the cage and to show my supporters
the hard work that I’ve been putting in to maintain my career with zero
losses!”
Rachael Lippert is also riding a
two-fight win-streak into this bout. Last month, she was victorious on a
card in Minnesota put on by national promotion Legacy Fighting Alliance
(LFA). She is a 25-year-old with a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
representing Fearless MMA of Janesville, Wisconsin.
“I am happy to have the opportunity
to travel and fight,” said Lippert. “At this point, we decided we
weren’t going to accept higher weight or lower record fights. This fight is
both of those things, but I looked up Glory and she looked like a banger of an
opponent. I know how it is to work hard and not get to fight, so I am happy to
fill the spot. I am looking forward to a great
fight.”
NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 37: SUB
ZERO,” will take place on Friday, February 1, 2019 at Cross Insurance
Center in Bangor, Maine with a bell time of 8 pm. Tickets are on-sale now
at www.CrossInsuranceCenter.com.
Undefeated Top Lightweight Contender Haney Faces Fellow Unbeaten Ndongeni In The Main Event of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, January 11 Live on SHOWTIME®
SHREVEPORT, La. (January 9, 2019) – One of boxing’s most promising rising stars, unbeaten lightweight Devin Haney, and fellow undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni, kicked off fight week with a final press conference Wednesday at Paradise Theatre in Margaritaville Resort Casino ahead of their ShoBox: The New Generation main event bout this Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.
The 20-year old Bay Area native and current Las Vegas resident Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion, headlines the popular prospect-oriented series for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), an unbeaten 28-year-old who once held the IBO’s belt at 135 pounds.
The event is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale now and available at www.akafights.com.
In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez Faure (10-0, 8 KOs) and Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) squaring off in another eight-round bout.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say:
DEVIN HANEY
“After this fight I want the whole world to know I’m no longer a prospect. I’m a contender.
“I feel I have something to prove. I’m not just going for the win on Friday night, I want to make a statement. I want to look good. I want to show the world what I’m capable of.
“I think that with a win against a fighter like Ndongeni, the sky is the limit. This fight is going to take me to the next level.”
XOLISANI NDONGENI
“Come Friday night, it’s going to be show time. Because, with all due respect, I’m no pushover and I didn’t come here to lose.
“I’ve been in the game for a long time. I have fought many styles and I’ve seen it all. I’m not scared.
“We are not looking for anything less than a win. I’m not leaving here without one.”
RUBEN VILLA
“I know my opponent is a really good fighter but I don’t feel any additional pressure. This is what we trained for – a tough fight. I’m excited for Friday night. I’m eager to perform.
“Being able to fight on TV is going to finally put me on the map. After Friday night, people are going to be talking about me. They are going to see what I’m made of.”
RUBEN CERVERA
“I’m originally from Colombia and traveling all the way here has not been easy, but we came ready. We had a very successful camp. We did everything we wanted to do and more.
“I’m excited to fight on national television in the United States. I want to showcase what Colombian fighters are made off.
“I know my opponent is good, and undefeated, but only the best man will win, and that is going to be me.”
WILLIE JAKE JR.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity. This is an important fight for me. During training camp, I took one day at a time, step by step. I’m prepared for the challenge.
“I don’t underestimate my opponent, I will listen to my corner and I will put up a great fight.”
Friday, Jan. 11 Live on SHOWTIME® From StageWorks Of Louisiana in Shreveport
WHAT: Devin Haney will kick
off the 2019 boxing year headlining on ShoBox: The New Generation for
the third time in his young career when he takes on fellow unbeaten Xolisani Ndongeni in a 10-round
lightweight main event this Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on
SHOWTIME from StageWorks of Louisiana in
Shreveport.
The supremely confident Haney of Las Vegas has everything going for him. In November he turned 20 years old, and is one of the youngest promoters in boxing history leading Devin Haney Promotions. SHOWTIME Sports has released a “Day in Camp” video feature and you quickly see why Haney is ONE OF BOXING’S BRIGHTEST YOUNG STARS.
Haney’s Bay Area training day begins at
the ocean, where he says he sleeps and breathes better than when he’s in Las
Vegas. Haney spars at famed trainer Virgil Hunter and former champion Andre
Ward’s gym in Hayward, Calif., close to Haney’s childhood home in Oakland. He
also pays a visit to world-renowned sports nutritionist expert Victor Conte’s
SNAC facility where he simulates high-altitude workouts.
In the new year, Haney only hopes to
build his boxing skills, as well as his brand. “I want to go down as a
multi-divisional world champion. Undisputed. I want to go down with the greats.
I want my name to be mentioned with the best. My last year was big. A lot of
people didn’t know me, and now they know me. It’s only going to get bigger in
2019. I will be fighting for a world title.”
In the ShoBox co-feature,
featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) will take on Ruben Cervera
(10-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young
heavyweights Frank Sanchez Faure (10-0, 8 KOs) and Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2
KOs) squaring off in another eight-round bout.
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