NEW YORK (January 2, 2019) — Split-T Management is pleased to announce the signing of top amateur heavyweight Sonny Conto to a management contract.
Conto, 22 years-old of Philadelphia, PA was a two-time Pennsylvania Golden Gloves Champion as well as a Silver Medalist in the 2018 National Golden Gloves and a Bronze Medalist in the 2017 National Golden Gloves.
A natural athlete, Conto was an acclaimed baseball pitcher, who pitched for Rowan College, in Gloucester County. Conto helped his team make it to the Junior College World Series, where his team placed 3rd.
“I am very excited to turn professional,” said Conto. I signed with Split-T Management because they are the best at managing their fighters and they also made me feel like family. I can’t wait to give all my fans a great career, and show them the real “Rocky.” The boxing world can expect to see exciting fights from me, and the next great Italian fighter to come out of Philadelphia, PA.”
“The 1st time I saw Sonny, I knew that I wanted to sign him. He has the rare combination of power and Charisma that doesn’t come often,” said David McWater of Split-T Management.
There will be a major announcement about Conto’s future in the very near future.
Undefeated top lightweight contender faces Xolisani Ndongeni in the Main Event of Shobox: The New Generation Friday, Jan. 11 Live on SHOWTIME®
Click HERE for Photos from Mario Serrano/Devin Haney Promotions
LAS VEGAS (December 28, 2018) – Heralded undefeated lightweight contender Devin Haney worked out for the media Thursday at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas ahead of his ShoBox: The New Generation main-event bout Friday, Jan. 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME®.
The 20-year old Bay Area native and current Las Vegas resident Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion, will headline on the popular up-and-coming prospect series ShoBox for the third time of his young career when he takes on fellow unbeaten Xolisani Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs) in a 10-round main event taking place at StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.
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 Haney and his father and trainer Bill Haney had to say:
DEVIN HANEY On his recent training camp:
“Training camp has been fantastic. I always start in Las Vegas for the first two weeks. I then went to the Bay Area to train at the SNAC facility with Victor Conte for four weeks. I did a lot of rounds of sparring with Mario Barrios among others at Virgil Hunter’s gym as well. Right now, I’m back in Las Vegas with my strength and conditioning coach Reggie. We are working hard, and I’ll be at my best when I step into the ring on Jan 11th.”
On facing South Africa’s undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni:“I know fighters from Africa always come to fight. Xolisani Ndongeni is no different. He’s very experienced and undefeated. Ndongeni has gone 12 rounds many times in his career. These are the type of fights I need to win impressively. I’m always looking to improve. Beating the tough South African will get me one step closer to a world title shot.”
On making his third appearance on ShoBox: “Fighting on SHOWTIME’s ShoBox series has been amazing for my career. This is my third appearance on the series. It feels great to have a home to showcase my talent. Ndongeni will bring out the best in me. I’m ready to graduate to SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.”
On when he thinks he’ll be ready for a world title: “I’ve climbed the rankings with good wins against Mason Menard and Juan Carlos Burgos. I’m rated in the top 10 in the WBA, WBC, and IBF. I’m focused on Ndongeni and January 11th is my time to shine.”
BILL HANEY, Devin’s Father and Trainer On the progression of his son Devin Haney: “Devin always impresses me with his work ethic and commitment to the game plan. Every day in the gym he is working on the little things that makes a fighter great. Devin has come a long way since his pro debut. Once he started fighting on SHOWTIME, he’s really stepped up his game. He’s a natural born fighter and one hell of a good entertainer.”
On picking his opponents:“We always look to step him up in competition. This is a big fight for us and we know what we are up against. These are the type of fights that are going to take him to the next level.”
On the landscape of the lightweight division:“The lightweight division is stacked and is one of the best in boxing. [Vasiliy] Lomachenko and [Mikey] Garcia are considered pound-for-pound top 10. The young guys coming up are very talented as well and to hold the lightweight title at this time you got to be a bad boy. Devin is marching up the rankings and hopefully by the end of the year, we’ll get our shot, but first we must handle business against Xolisani Ndongeni.” # # #
Three-Part ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER Premieres Friday, January 4 on SHOWTIME®
NEW YORK – December 28, 2018 – SHOWTIME Sports will chronicle the buildup to the welterweight world championship between Senator Manny Pacquiao and must-see attraction Adrien Broner with a new installment of the Emmy Award-winning series ALLACCESS. The multi-part series premieres Friday, January 4 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and airs on consecutive Fridays leading into the January 19 SHOWTIME PPV® from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONERwill peel back the curtain as Pacquiao transitions from the final days of Senate in his native Philippines to training camp in Los Angeles for his first fight in America in more than two years. The immersive series will document Broner, one of boxing’s most colorful personalities, as the four-division champion prepares for a chance to become a two-time titlist in boxing’s glamour division.
Episode two of ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER will premiere Friday, January 11 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT. ALL ACCESS EPILOGUE, which spotlights the immediate buildup to fight night and the solemn aftermath of world championship prizefighting, will premiere on Saturday, January 26.
The acclaimed SHOWTIME Sports original series will be accompanied by digital features released throughout fight week on the networks’ social media channels. ALL ACCESS DAILY will deliver the same intimate access and signature storytelling as the intensity builds toward fight night. New installments of the digital series will be available each day beginning Wednesday, January 16 on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page.
Filming for the series is underway as Pacquiao recently begun phase two of his camp in Los Angeles under the legendary Freddie Roach. Cincinnati’s Broner, the second-youngest four-division champion in history, is in the midst of training camp in West Palm Beach, Fla., under the tutelage of Kevin Cunningham.
Click HERE for “UFC Embedded” Clip Featuring Jack & Gustafsson
BADOU JACK SUPPORTING FRIEND & FELLOW SWEDE ALEXANDER GUSTAFSSON AHEAD OF UFC TITLE FIGHT TOMORROW NIGHT AGAINST JON JONES
LAS VEGAS (December 28, 2018) – Two-division boxing champion Badou Jack will be supporting his fellow Swede, Alexander Gustafsson, in his UFC light heavyweight title fight tomorrow night against Jon Jones, and recently dined with his longtime friend while both were training in Las Vegas.
“Alexander, (Swedish UFC fighter) Ilir Latifi and I go
back to the amateur days in Sweden,” said Jack. “It was great seeing
them again and I’m very proud of all they’ve accomplished in the MMA world. I
wish Alexander all the best in his upcoming rematch and will be cheering for
him to bring Sweden another world title home.”
In the clip from “UFC Embedded“, Jack and Gustafsson talk
about their friendship dating back to their amateur days in Sweden, as
Gustafsson prepares for his title bout and Jack nears his showdown against
Marcus Browne on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner pay-per-view January 19.
“Badou Jack and I go back a long time,” said
Gustafsson in the clip. “He’s from Stockholm, Sweden where I’m from and
he’s doing his thing in boxing while I’m in MMA. Our paths have crossed and we
sparred way back in the day. We’re here to catch up and just hang out.”
In addition to sharing Swedish heritage, Jack and Gustafsson
both use the Lockhart and Leith team of nutritionists and chefs to cut weight
for their respective fights, something that has helped both reach the elite
level of combat sports.
“They have surrounded themselves with a great team, which is essential in this sport,” said Jack. “Although it’s an individual performance, the preparation is a team effort. It was great catching up over dinner and getting our teams together for some laughter and fun in the middle of our training camps. Team Jack is 100% in their corners.”
Two-Time Super Featherweight Champion Davis Defends Title Against Three-Division Champion Mares in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Main Event Saturday, February 9 from StubHub Center(Soon to be Dignity Health Sports Park) in Carson, Calif.
Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/Mayweather Promotions
LOS ANGELES (December 27, 2018) – Two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and three-division world champion Abner Mares went face-to-face for the first time Thursday at a press conference in Los Angeles as Davis defends his WBA title against Mares on Saturday, February 9 live on SHOWTIME® in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted
by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now and
can be purchased at AXS.com.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main
event promises fireworks and high-stakes action as both men bring their
fan-friendly styles to the ring. Here is what the press conference participants
had to say Thursday from the Conga Room at L.A. Live:
GERVONTA DAVIS
“I believe that Abner Mares is a
future Hall of Famer because he’s fought so many top-level guys. This is big
for me because this is my first time being a main event in the U.S. and I just
feel blessed to be here.
“In 2019, I want to make a big statement
not only in the ring but by letting the boxing world know that I’m the next
star. I’m aiming to headline a pay-per-view by 2020 if everything goes right. I
have great fights lined up for next year, without looking past Abner.
“As soon as I got off the plane, I
went straight to the gym and got some work in with some guys there. We’re not
taking Abner lightly. I’m excited and blessed to be in this position. February
9, I’m confident it will be sold out and I’m confident that I will be that next
boxing star.
“I’ve always known that you can’t
underestimate anyone in the ring. You have to look at your opponent like
they’re equal to you. I understand exactly what I have in front of me.
“I don’t know what Abner sees, but he
was sure he wanted to take this fight so obviously he sees something. I have
power, speed, movement and really a blend of everything. I believe that I’m a
better fighter than him.
“It’s all about being focused in that
ring and doing my job. I’m coming to get Abner Mares out of there.
“I wanted to fight Abner Mares out
here in Southern California. Floyd Mayweather fought Arturo Gatti in his
hometown and that’s basically what I’m doing here.”
ABNER MARES
“One day I just thought to myself
that this fight against Gervonta Davis would be a great matchup and that I can
win it. There are other big fights at featherweight that I could have gotten.
I’m taking this fight because of the challenge that it brings. I’m all about
that.
“I’m coming off of a great close
fight against Leo Santa Cruz. I’m a winner every time I fight. I come to prove
people wrong and perform. Not too many people do that these days.
“We’ll already
have 50 percent of the fight won just by having a good corner, a good team and
a great plan. The other 50 percent is up to the fighter to perform. One thing
is having the game plan in your mind but it’s another thing to go out there and
perform that game plan.
“We’re not just
going into this fight blind. I’m not stupid. I’m taking this fight because I
see something in this guy. It’s a tough fight, no doubt. All fights are tough.
He’s in for a good fight. At the end of the day, you guys have to stop worrying
about my weight and if I’m too small. You guys are going to get a great fight
and that’s all that matters. Sit back, look pretty and enjoy the fight.
“You can’t compare
Jesus Cuellar to Gervonta Davis. I know some people wanted to compare how I did
against Cuellar and how Davis did against Cuellar, but he fought him two years
after I did. It makes no sense. Gervonta Davis has a different style than
Cuellar and it’s going to be a good fight. He’s an exciting fighter and he’s a
boxer. He’s a boxer that trades punches so it makes for an exciting fight.
“People are going to recognize me as
someone who took on everyone. People say this will be a new style for me, but
I’ve seen them all. This is team ‘no fear’ and we’re going to make this
happen.”
CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer
“This is a great chance for us to go
up against the great team that Abner Mares and Robert Garcia make. We’ve been
watching them for a long time and we’re looking forward to it.
“We’ve been doing
this for many years. We know that when it’s time to lock in, we’ll be locked
in. Sparring has been going well. We’re just taking our time and doing what we
have to do to get ready. We have a great team and everybody is doing their
part. It’s our time to show what we’re capable of.
“On February 9, that’s when Gervonta
Davis is going to step up and show the world what he truly is. I can’t wait for
everyone to see it.”
ROBERT GARCIA, Mares’ Trainer
“Abner is very motivated. We have
very strong sparring partners and he’s doing a great job in the gym already.
Come February 9, everyone is in for a surprise. I respect Gervonta Davis and
his team, but I think Abner is hungrier and looking to make history.
“This is going to be a great fight.
We’re excited to see a great crowd of fans out there to enjoy a fight that’s
going to be full of action.
“We know that this is a tough
challenge. I think of this like the Adrien Broner vs. Marcos Maidana fight.
Just like Davis, they said Broner is flashy, dangerous and this and that. But
you all know what happened. Same thing is going to happen this time
around.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather
Promotions
“This is a fight the fans wanted.
These two guys have gone back and forth on social media and I’m excited that
they’re going to finally get in the ring on February 9.
“Davis vs. Mares is a thrilling
matchup between two very skilled warriors. You can’t expect anything but great
fireworks from this fight.
“You can’t say enough about Gervonta
Davis. He’s young, exciting and when he comes into the ring, he doesn’t play
games. That style is going to make this an electrifying matchup.
“You don’t see fighters like Gervonta
Davis very often. He has all the ingredients it takes to be a huge star. He
knows that he has room to improve and he truly wants to get better. He has a
tremendous skill set and you’ve only gotten a glimpse of what Gervonta Davis
brings to the table so far.
“Abner Mares really wanted this fight.
Any time a boxer goes out of his way to say ‘I want that guy’, the biggest and
baddest guy in the division, that speaks volumes to the confidence that Abner
Mares has. He’s exhibited this in all of his fights and he always performs at
the highest level.”
RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of
Ringstar Sports
“This is a fascinating matchup taking
place at the perfect venue. This is a great fight to get 2019 going. It’s
youth, strength and size against experience, will and desire. May the best man
win.
“I want to thank both fighters for
coming together to make this fight happen. This is one that had been brewing
for a while. Gervonta Davis is the best fighter in his division and he’s one of
the guys who can talk the talk and walk the walk.
“Abner Mares has always sought out
the most difficult challenges in front of him. He is a legend in this sport and
one of the best fighters to ever come out of Mexico. These are the kinds of
challenges that make Abner what he is in this sport.
“Gervonta Davis is one of the rising
stars of the sport and Mares is one of its legendary champions. When you put
those two together, the ones who are going to win are the fight fans.
“People are excited about this fight.
Fans know that you never want to count out a great champion like Abner Mares.
This is of course a dangerous fight for Mares, that’s how good Gervonta Davis
is, but he obviously sees how he can win this fight.”
Tony Harrison Shocks Jermell Charlo to Win WBC Super Welterweight Championship by Unanimous Decision
Dominic Breazeale Scores Sensational Ninth-Round Knockout Over Carlos Negron In Heavyweight Duel
Click HERE for Photos from Leo Wilson/Premier Boxing Champions
Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions
BROOKLYN (December 23, 2018) – WBC Interim Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo(28-0, 21 KOs) won a hard-fought unanimous decision over Matt Korobov (28-2, 13 KOs) to defend his title in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday night from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
“I had fun in there with a tough opponent like that,” said Charlo. “I got the win and that’s the main thing. I still feel I’m the best in the world. I just need to prove it to the rest of the world.”
The southpaw Korobov had success early countering Charlo with straight left hands that landed cleanly, even if they didn’t deter Charlo from coming forward. Korobov was successful countering to the body as well and ended the fight with a 119 to 114 advantage in power punches landed according to CompuBox.
Charlo stayed consistent with his jab however through the early rounds and began to break through later as Korobov’s right eye appeared to close during the middle rounds. Charlo out-jabbed Korobov by a 56 to 9 advantage in jabs landed, and also threw nearly 200 more punches throughout the fight per CompuBox.
In round 12 Charlo closed the show and nearly stopped Korobov, who used his experience to hold and move enough to survive the round. Charlo landed a clean left hook to the head early in the round that put Korobov on shaky legs, and he followed up with several strong punches that forced Korobov to try to survive.
“I used everything that happened tonight as motivation in the 12th round,” said Charlo. “I haven’t been that far in a fight in a couple of years. It felt good to be in there, get hit and bang with someone. He was an experienced guy who will make me better.”
After 12-rounds of action, Charlo won the unanimous decision by scores of 119-108 and 116-112, even after watching his twin brother lose a tough decision minutes prior to his fight starting. “I felt like Jermell made his fight harder than it was,” said Charlo. “I had a really tough opponent, but he wasn’t better than me. There was a lot on my mind in the ring.”
Korobov thought he had done enough to win the fight after he stepped in as a replacement opponent one week prior to fight night. “I thought that I won the fight,” said Korobov. “It was definitely a fight that could have gone either way, but I believe the people know that I won. I’m the most avoided fighter in boxing and I showed why tonight. I hope this performance will get me another title fight.”
In a back-and-forth title showdown, Detroit’s Tony Harrison (28-2, 21 KOs) pulled off the upset to win a narrow unanimous decision over Jermell Charlo (31-1, 15 KOs) and capture the WBC Super Welterweight Championship.
“I dictated the pace,” said Harrison. “That’s what champions do. He wound up for big shots and I kept my defense tight. All we worked on was defense. I kept my composure and I did what champions do.”
Charlo expressed his disagreement with the judges’ decision after the fight. “They took that fight from me,” said Charlo. “I was pressing the action. He didn’t win that fight.”
Harrison was effective with his jab as he attempted to keep the power-punching Charlo at bay. Harrison landed his biggest punch of the fight in round five when a straight left appeared to temporarily stun Charlo. Charlo was able to land several effective power punches throughout the 12 rounds, including an overhand right late in round five that wobbled Harrison.
Round nine saw both men land significant shots, which lead to an exchange where Charlo urged Harrison to keep coming forward. “I got back to my corner after every round and they told me to just keep doing what you’re doing,” said Harrison, “You’re dictating the pace they said. That’s what champions do. Champions don’t just try to knock people out. That’s all he wanted to do. I dictated it. I used my jab. I dictated the fight. That’s what champions do.”
Harrison was caught off balance in round 11 and again in round 12 by Charlo power punches, but was able to use his movement and hold at key times to survive both rounds. After 12 rounds of action the judges preferred Harrison’s jab, movement and counters to the forward-charging power punches of Charlo. All three judges scored the fight for Harrison, by scores of 116-112 and 115-113 twice. Per CompuBox, Harrison connected on 34 percent of his punches throughout the fight to Charlo’s 29 percent clip, while Charlo out landed Harrison 160 to 128, plus a 108 to 71 advantage in power punches landed.
After the fight, Harrison indicated he would be willing to give Charlo a rematch while Charlo immediately stated his intention to get his belt back. “Jermell – you gave me a shot – I’ll give you a rematch,” said Harrison. “I’m going to get my belt back,” said Charlo. “I still want Jarrett Hurd. I know my brother knows I won that fight. I might have given away a few rounds, but I won that fight.”
In the opening bout of the telecast, top heavyweight contender Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale(20-1, 18 KOs) delivered a one-punch knockout victory over Carlos Negron (20-2, 16 KOs) in the ninth-round of their heavyweight showdown. “I knew the big shot was coming, it was just a matter of time,” said Breazeale. “I was setting up that right hand all night. Since the third round I noticed he dropped his left hand when he took a step to the left, and that’s what I got him with.”
Breazeale started out slowly as Negron was able to score early with a lead left hook and an effective body attack. Breazeale stalked his opponent and threw power punches with some success before connecting on a huge right hand before the bell to end the fourth round. “It’s been a long stretch since I’ve been in the ring,” said Breazeale. “I definitely worked off some ring rust, worked some great combinations and body shots, and finally got the knockout.”
The 2012 U.S. Olympian Breazeale had more success through the middle rounds, controlling the action with his jab and pressure that negated Negron’s offense. Midway through the ninth round, Breazeale caught Negron in the corner and connected on an overhand right that sent Negron crashing into the ropes.
Referee Arthur Mercante stopped the bout 1:37 into the ninth round. Breazeale, who is the mandatory challenger for heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, had a message for the champion, who was seated ringside.
“I’m next in line for Deontay Wilder and I’m coming for him,” said Breazeale. “I’ve been waiting for him and I did what I had to do tonight. I’m ready for him now. “I know Wilder is here in the crowd. He came to watch. He knows I’m next. He better be holding on to that belt really tightly, because I’m coming. ‘Trouble’ is already here.”
# # #
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.
LONDON (December 22, 2018) –Dillian Whyte delivered a Knockout of the Year candidate with a devastating left hook in the 11th round in a dramatic rematch of one of 2016’s best fights between two top-rated heavyweight contenders Saturday in London in a SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL telecast from The O2 Arena. With the win, Whyte now has the inside track at a world title fight in 2019. VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2BDKBOP
Whyte (25-1, 18 KOs), who entered the fight holding the No. 1 ranking in the WBC and WBO, used a lethal left hook in the eleventh round to end the rematch, which was just as thrilling and memorable as the 2016 clash, in dramatic style. The highly competitive, back-and-forth bout was evenly contested from the opening bell. Chisora (29-9, 21 KOs), who was perhaps the more aggressive fighter, was deducted two points, once for a low blow in the eighth round and once for an elbow in the 11th round. Despite the two-point deduction, Chisora was ahead on two scorecards, 95-94, at the time of the KO. Anthony Joshua, who called the fight ringside for Sky Sports, went face-to-face with Whyte following the bout.
“That left hook is my money shot. That shot is going to put a lot of people away,” said Whyte, whose only professional loss came to Joshua in 2015. “They can train for it as much as they want. I’ve been in deep waters and I can swim. I was in great shape. I wasn’t tired once, I was just pacing myself and I knew the knockout was going to come. Whoever wants it can get it. I want Joshua next! Let’s do this. Rematch!”
“Let’s forget about what’s happened in the past. We were at British level in our last fight and now we’re at world level,” replied Joshua, who holds the WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight titles. “It was a good fight back then but let’s see where we’re at right now. If anybody deserves a world title shot, I think it’s Dillian. Deontay Wilder is the target, but if it’s not him, it’s Dillian Whyte.”
Saturday’s SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL telecast will replay on Monday, December 24 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.
The one-fight telecast from London was hosted by Brian Custer and Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood. Live fight coverage was provided by Sky Sports Box Office with Adam Smith calling the action and former world champion Carl Froch and Joshua providing expert analysis.
Welterweight World Champion Thurman Defends Title Against Veteran Contender Josesito Lopez; Undefeated Adam Kownacki Battles Gerald Washington Saturday, January 26 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes from Barclays Center in Brooklyn
Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions
BROOKLYN (December 22, 2018) – Unbeaten welterweight champion Keith Thurman and veteran welterweight Josesito Lopez, plus Brooklyn’s undefeated heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki, hosted a press conference Saturday night to discuss their fights on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes taking place Saturday, January 26 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see Kownacki battle former title challenger Gerald Washington in a 10-round contest and unbeaten featherweight contender Tugstgogt Nyambayar take on Claudio Marrero to open the telecast, all leading up to the Thurman vs, Lopez main event.
Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the fighters had to say Saturday before going face-to-face in the Barclays Center interview room, prior to the PBC on FOX fight night in Brooklyn:
KEITH THURMAN “I feel great physically. We’re working really hard and just getting back into everything we did before the injury. It feels tremendous and I’m so happy to be able to do this back in Brooklyn. January 26, you will see the return of the number one welterweight in the world. I need to come back and stay active and healthy. I’m going to remind everyone this year why I’m one of the baddest men on the planet. At the end of the day, I’m here to make a statement that ‘One Time’ is back. I have one belt, and I’m missing one belt. I’m going to re-establish my own accomplishments this year, then go from there. We’re taking it one fight at a time. Right now my eyes are set on Josesito Lopez.”
“I’m a world-class fighter. I’ve fought through injuries my whole career. A real fighter ends up getting addicted to the game. There’s nothing better in this life than being under those lights and being part of the action. My legacy is not over. Unification against Danny Garcia was not enough for me. Ultimately, I’m just waiting to be presented with a man who is better than me. There might not be one, but I’m not afraid to let my ‘0’ go. “I need fights like this against a guy like Josesito Lopez. He’s going to be there and give the fans a great fight. He’s coming to take me out. He looked like he was in shape a month ago when I first saw him. “It’s been a long time and I’m truly honored to be back. It’s been hard for me to not be in the ring while I wait for the elbow to recover. I’m so happy to be back.”
JOSESITO LOPEZ “I’m really excited to be here tonight. Keith Thurman is a world-class, elite fighter and I’m going to make the most of this opportunity. I’ve been in this position before and I’ve never shied away from big battles. This is another big one and I’m going to be ready for it and become world champion.”
“I’m sure Keith Thurman is as strong and skilled as anyone I’ve ever faced. He’s undefeated for a reason. I give him his respect for that. I’m preparing for him to be the best fighter I’ve ever faced. We’re both experienced fighters who have fought world class competition. I’ve faced my share of tough heavy punchers. I’ve pretty much seen it all. Come January 26, we’re going into deep waters and we’ll see how each of us reacts.”
“No matter how active Thurman has been, the importance of this opportunity doesn’t change. If anything we might see a better and healthier Keith Thurman than we’ve seen in years. I’m expecting the best Keith Thurman there is. I’m going in against one of the toughest welterweights out there. I don’t need anyone to believe in me but myself. I’m going to give it my all to come out with that title.”
ADAM KOWNACKI “January 26 is going to be a great night. Every time I fight, it’s very exciting. I throw a lot of punches and bring the pressure. Gerald Washington is going to be a tough test, but if I get through him, I’m even closer to a title shot. That’s the ultimate goal.”
“It’s a little bit of a fairytale story. I was just a little kid from Brooklyn wearing the Golden Gloves and now I’m fighting at Barclays Center. It’s a whole new environment. Hopefully next year I’m the main event. That’s the goal and it’s going to be a dream come true. I have to keep working hard to achieve it.”
“I think when I fought Iago Kiladze, he was also a runner who could box. I managed the ring very well with him so I’m looking to do the same with Washington and punish the body. The taller they are the harder they fall. Gerald Washington is a tough exam. He’s a former title challenger and I know he’s going to bringing his A-game. My goal is to become the heavyweight champion of the world and in order to do that I have to get by Washington. That’s what I plan on doing.”
# # #
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:
Jack vs. Browne
Serving as Co-Feature of Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner Mega-Fight
Las Vegas (December 20, 2018) – While two-division world
champion Badou Jack “The Ripper” wears many hats as
an entrepreneur, philanthropist and father, it is his boxing career that has
allowed him to be on the path to greatness in and out of the ring. Therefore,
he will put his championship-caliber boxing skills on full display on Saturday,
January 19 from MGM Grand Garden Arena live on SHOWTIME PPV® against
hungry light heavyweight Marcus Browne as the co-main event of the Manny
Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner welterweight championship fight.
Jack is no stranger the pay-per-view spotlight as one of the
brightest stars in the Mayweather Promotions stable and is preparing to make a
statement on January 19.
“At this stage of my career, I’m motivated to fight the best
in the division and prove I am the top light heavyweight in the world,”
said Jack. “I want the biggest fights on the biggest stages against the
best competition.”
Despite being deep in training camp for this major step in his
career, Jack, who was recently named a finalist for the Boxing Writers
Association of America’s Marvin Kohn Good Guy Award, has not forgotten his
mission outside of the ring – the work he is doing through the Badou Jack
Foundation – which focuses on giving children around the world a fighting
chance at life. He spent Thanksgiving serving food to those less fortunate at
the Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada’s food distribution center and plans
to continue to volunteer with them moving forward as well as continuing his
work in the Middle East immediately following his fight.
“Badou is receiving a well-deserved acknowledgement for his
acts of kindness,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions.
“Not only does Badou put in hard work and maintain discipline for his
craft, he’s a family man who also looks to share the fruits of his success with
others. He remains humble and carries himself with poise as his career
advances. I know that good things will continue to come his way and I’m pleased
to have him on our team, he’s a promoter’s dream.”
While Jack has been in the ring with some very tough customers
including Nathan Cleverly, James DeGale, George Groves and Anthony Dirrell, he
knows that Browne is coming to fight and try to derail his successful campaign
at light heavyweight. Therefore, in addition to the work he is putting in at
the gym, Jack has instituted a performance and weight management regimen
overseen by renowned nutritionists Lockhart and Leith, whose clients include
world-class MMA fighters from Conor McGregor to Cris Cyborg.
Additionally, Jack is utilizing his nutrition supplement products
Ripper Nutrition before and after each workout as Lockhart and Leith are now
official partners in the product, they believe in it so much. Jack has also
welcomed Lockhart and Leith chef James Lockwood into camp to prepare each meal
as part of this regimen.
“Thanks to the opportunities Floyd Mayweather, Mayweather
Promotions and SHOWTIME have provided Badou, he has been able to establish
Ripper Nutrition and the Badou Jack Foundation,” said Amer Abdallah,
Jack’s manager. “He looks great in camp, we expect a spectacular night in
the ring and then we will get back to building his empire outside
it.”
# # #
Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s
only eight-division world champion, will face four-division world champion Adrien
“The Problem” Broner for Pacquiao’s World Boxing Association
Welterweight World Title on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, January 19
from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
In undercard action on the SHOWTIME PPV, two-division world
champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated
contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight
Title and former world champion Rau’shee Warren will take on
France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World
Championship in a rematch of their 2012 Olympic matchup that was edged by
Oubaali. In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast,
unbeaten Jhack Tepora will take on former world champion Hugo
Ruiz in a 12-round featherweight clash for the WBA Interim
Championship.
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.
LAS VEGAS (December 20, 2019) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions will co-promote a potential early candidate for the 2019 Fight of the Year, when world title challenger “Mighty” Aston Palicte (24-2-1, 20 KOs) takes on unbeaten Jose “Chiquiro” Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs) in a World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior bantamweight title eliminator on Thursday, January 31, at Viejas Casino & Resort in Alpine, California.
Palicte vs.Martinez will headline a soon-to-be-announced card in the 12-round main event, held on the Thursday night of Super Bowl week, in the Oak Ballroom. Viejas Casino & Resort is located 35 miles outside of San Diego.
The winner of the Palicte vs. Martinez title eliminator will become the mandatory challenger for the winner of the New Year’s Eve match in China for the vacant WBO Junior Bantamweight World Championship, between No. 1 contender Donnie Nietes (41-1-5, 23 KOs) and No. 3 rated Kazuito Ioka (23-1, 13 KOs).
Palicte and Martinez will continue a Philippines-Puerto Rico boxing rivalry that dates back many years, perhaps, highlighted by the 2009 showdown between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto, in which the fabulous Filipino defeated the Puerto Rican warrior by way of a 12th round technical knockout. It marks the first time Jones and Cotto, two of the greatest boxers of all-time, will be in opposite corners, in terms of competing fighters they promote, respectively, Palicte and Martinez.
“Having our new partnership with Viejas Casino & Resort allows us to host these great fights,” Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions CEO/Co-founder Keith Veltre remarked. “Having a Roy Jones Jr. and Miguel Cotto fighter face-off makes this fight even more exciting. 2019 is going to be the biggest and most active year for RJJ Boxing.”
“This is the type of fight that changes your career,” Hall of Famer/promoter Cotto said. “We know ‘Chiquiro’ Martinez is ready for the challenge and it will be an exciting fight. Promoting this fight, together with Roy Jones, Jr., will be great for boxing. We really look forward to start 2019 with a great fight like Martinez vs. Palicte.”
“All of us at Viejas are excited to be working with Roy Jones, Jr. and look forward to this amazing event,” added Jimmy Wild, GM Viejas Casino & Resort.
Palicte (WBO No. 2) heads the latest wave of world-class Filipino boxers, who is coming off a controversial 12-round split draw with his fellow countryman, 3-division world champion Nietes, for the vacant WBO Junior bantamweight title this past September in Inglewood, California. Many at ringside felt that Palicte should have won the Filipino showdown, based on his relentless pressure and considerably higher activity rate, throwing 300-plus more punches than Nietes.
Palicte is also ranked No. 9 in independent world ratings by The Ring magazine.
Martinez (WBO No, 4), who captured the vacant WBO North American Boxing Organization (NABO) Championship on November 16, 2017, knocking out Jesus Martinez (23-2-1, 11 KOs) in Cancun Mexico, has also held the World Boxing Council Latino and WBC USNBC Silver crowns.
“I want to thank God for this great opportunity,” Martinez commented. “Thank you, Miguel Cotto and the WBO. I feel excited because this is the most important fight of my career with a high-level boxer as Palicte. I will train really hard to be in the best condition. We are really focusing on getting the big win on January 31st.”
Priced at $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00, tickets go on sale tomorrow (Fri., Dec. 21), and are available to purchase by going online at www.viejas.com.
