All posts by FNU47

amateur boxing, boxing, USA Boxing

USA vs. Germany Duels to take place in Chattanooga alongside Eastern Qualifier 

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World medalist and Olympic Hopefuls to step into the ring on American soil 

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (September 17, 2018) — Two of the world’s top amateur boxing powerhouses will meet in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for two separate duels taking place Saturday, October 6 and Friday, Oct. 12, at the Chattanooga Convention Center.

 

 

 

The duels will feature some of the top male and female elite boxers from both the United States and Germany, as they prepare for the lead up to the Olympics in 2020. The two events will take place alongside this year’s Eastern Elite Qualifier & Regional Open Championships, which is expected to have more than 650 boxers, aged 8-40, compete from Oct. 8-13.

 

 

 

“We are excited to host the German Federation, as they have hosted us numerous times for training camps over the past two years,” said USA Boxing High Performance Director Matt Johnson. “This will be a great competition and a great opportunity for USA Boxing to showcase our next generation of Olympic hopefuls on home soil.”

 

 

 

Team USA is expected to bring a talented team that will include multiple World Championship medalists, including 2017 Elite World Championship medalists Troy Isley (Alexandria, Va.), Duke Ragan (Cincinnati, Ohio) and Freudis Rojas Jr. (Las Vegas, Nev.), as well as two-time World Championship medalist Christina Cruz (New York, N.Y.), 2016 Youth World Champion Delante Johnson (Cleveland, Ohio) and 2016 Youth World Championships bronze medalist Richard Torrez Jr. (Tulare, Calif.)

 

 

 

Other boxers anticipated to compete for Team USA include international medalists Khalil Coe (Jersey City, New Jersey), Keyshawn Davis (Norfolk, Va.), Virginia Fuchs (Kemah, Texas), Oshae Jones (Toledo, Ohio), Quinton Randall (Katy, Texas) and Stacia Suttles(Brooklyn, N.Y.). These boxers are subject to change, and a full roster for both teams will be released closer to the start of the duels.

 

 

 

Boxers who are competing at the Eastern Elite Qualifier & Regional Open Championships are eligible for an early check-in on Saturday, Oct. 6 for the qualifier and will receive free entrance to that night’s duel. Coaches who pre-register for the Qualifier and complete early check-in will also receive free entrance to that night’s event.

 

 

 

Check USABoxing.org for updates on the event in the coming weeks.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

 

 

 

ABOUT USA BOXING: The mission of USA Boxing shall be to enable United States’ athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence, develop character, support the sport of boxing, and promote and grow Olympic style boxing in the United States. The responsibility of USA Boxing is not only to produce Olympic gold, but also oversee and govern every aspect of amateur boxing in the United States.

boxing

Brandon Robinson stops Ernest Amuzu in three rounds in Philadelphia

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Williams defeats Grayton in terrific Welterweight battle

Yunusov, Jimenez, Butt, Williams and Tazhibay remain undefeated


(Photo by Matthew Heasley) 

Philadelphia, PA (September 17, 2018) -Surging super middleweight Brandon Robinson won his 11th straight bout as he took out Ernest Amuzu in round three of their scheduled eight-round bout that headlined a nine-bout card this past Friday night at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

The spectacular show was promoted by King’s Promoted and was streamed live all over the world on Facebook Fight Night Live.  -Note–The show can be viewed by clicking here.

 

 

 

Robinson of Upper Darby, PA bided his time until in round three, when he landed a nice body shot that drove Amuzu into the corner.  That set up a furious flurry by Robinson.  Robinson rocked Amuzu several times until he was defenseless, and the bout was stopped at 2:04.

 

 

 

Robinson is now 11-1 with eight stoppages.  Amuzu of Prichard, Alabama is 24-4.

 

 

 

“It was a good fight.  Ernest Amuzu came to fight, and he was a worthy opponent. We work hard in the gym and the reward is even better,” said Robinson.  “The finish came from a jab, and then I touched the body a couple of times.  We started to wear him out, and that was that.  A knockout is always great.  I want to fight Derrick Webster for the number-five spot in the IBF.  It is nothing personal just business.  I know that I can beat him.”

 

 

 

In the exciting co-feature, Terrel Williams registered three knockdowns en-route to a ten-round unanimous decision over David Grayton in a welterweight contest.

 

 

 

Williams scored a knockdown in round one from a perfectly placed right hand. A round later, it was another straight right that put the southpaw Grayton the canvas.  Grayton began to mount a comeback in the middle rounds as he tried to will himself back into the fight.

 

 

 

In round six, Williams gained back the momentum as yet another right hand sent Grayton down.  That knockdown seemed to actually fuel Grayton as he did his best work over the next few rounds.  Williams came back to have a good round ten and came home home with the victory by scores of 98-90, 98-89 and 97-92.

 

 

 

Williams of Los Angeles, California is now 17-0.  Grayton of Washington. D.C. is 15-3-1.

 

 

 

Three-time Olympian, Anvar Yunusov was impressive as he dropped Angel Monreal twice in round one, and got the stoppage win at 2:39 of that opening frame,

 

 

 

Yunusov scored both of those knockdowns with hard left hands, with the finishing blow being a left that sent Monreal plummeting to the deck.

 

 

 

Yunusov of Tajikistan who now resides in Philadelphia is 5-0 with two knockouts.  Monreal of Monterrey, Mexico is 10-11-1.

 

 

 

Alejandro Jimenez won a four-round unanimous decision over Jerrod Miner in a bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

Jimenez of New Hope, PA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards, and is now 3-0.  Miner of Philadelphia is 1-2-1.

 

 

 

Keeshawn Williams won a four-round unanimous decision over Farhad Fatulla in a welterweight contest.

 

 

 

Williams was the quicker and more skilled fighter, who flashed a piston jab that cut the left eye of Fatulla.  Williams won by 40-36 scores on all cards.

 

 

 

Williams of Washington, D.C. is 3-0-1.  Fatulla of Salt Lake City, Utah is 1-2.

 

 

 

Daiyann Butt remained undefeated by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Anthony Smith in a junior welterweight fight.

 

 

 

Butt of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-36 on all cards, and is now 2-0.  Smith of Fresno, California is 1-3.

 

 

 

Yueri Andujar made an impressive pro debut by taking out previously undefeated Crystian Peguero in the 3rd round of their scheduled four-round featherweight bout.

 

 

 

Andujar used his height to land wicked combinations that hurt Peguero throughout the contest.

 

 

 

The fight culminated in round three when Andujar landed a booming uppercut that rocked Peguero.  With Peguero hurt, Andujar landed three more crushing shots, and the bout was stopped at 2:06.

 

 

 

Andujar of Reading, PA is 1-0 with one knockout.  Peguero of Philadelphia is 2-1.

 

 

 

James Bernadin made a successful pro debut with a 3rd round stoppage over Christopher Burgos in a super featherweight battle.

 

 

 

In round two, Burgos began to bleed under his left eye.  In round three, Bernadin landed a right-left combination that was followed by a booming right to the head that dropped Burgos.  Burgos got to his feet, but wobbled and the fight was stopped at 2:19.

 

 

 

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA is 1-0 with one knockout.  Burgos of Philadelphia is 1-3-1.

 

 

 

Shyngyskhan Tazhibay remained perfect by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Justin Johnson in a welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Tazhibay of Washington, D.C. won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice, and is now 7-0.  Johnson of Pittsburgh, took the fight on one day notice is 6-18-6.

 

 

 

KING’S PROMOTIONS WILL BE BACK ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH AT THE SANDS BETHLEHEM EVENT CENTER WITH ANTHONY MERCARDO TAKING ON VICTOR VAZQUEZ IN THE MAIN EVENT.  UNDEFEATED STEPHEN FULTON WILL ALSO SEE ACTION ON THE NINE-BOUT CARD 

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

TOP BANTAMWEIGHT CONTENDERS TO SQUARE OFF AT NEF 36 IN PORTLAND, MAINE

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Portland, Maine (September 17, 2018) – New England Fights (NEF) will hold its final mixed-martial-arts event of 2018, “NEF 36: Battle for the Gold,” on Saturday, November 17 at Aura in Portland, Maine. Earlier today, the fight promotion announced the addition of an amateur bantamweight bout to the card.  Henry Clark (4-4) is scheduled to meet Killian Murphy (1-1) in a battle of top contenders to the promotion’s 135-pound amateur title.

Henry Clark is a member of the Choi Institute based in Portland.  After starting his amateur career at 3-1, Clark would lose his next three in a row.  He would bounce back this past June with a first-round submission of Jack Greene (2-6) via D’Arce choke at “NEF 34” in Portland.  It was a return to form as Clark had picked up all three of his previous wins by submission – all various forms of chokeholds.  He previously challenged for the amateur bantamweight title in early 2016 in a losing effort to Johnny Crafts (4-1).

“I’m hyped about this fight with Killian,” said Clark.  “He’s as game as they come, but he is nowhere near ready for me. I’ll smash him up, and then next I’ll take that belt and put it around my waist with my own hands. This is my time to shine.”

Killian Murphy is a former Maine state wrestling champion.  He captured a title for Marshwood High School in Elliott in 2015.  Murphy made his amateur MMA debut earlier this year at “NEF 33” in Portland with a technical knockout of Krishna Scott (0-1).  Like Clark, he would also make an unsuccessful bid for the amateur bantamweight title.  Murphy lost to current champion Kam Arnold at “NEF 34” in a hard-fought battle that will certainly be a contender for “Fight of the Year” at the end of 2018.  He trains with Nostos MMA of Somersworth, New Hampshire under former NEF Professional Lightweight Champion, and current UFC fighter, Devin Powell (9-3).

“I’m excited to fight Henry,” said Murphy. “Beating Henry gives me another shot at the title – and winning that belt has always been my goal.”

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 36: Battle for the Gold,” will see the company make its return to Aura in Portland, Maine.  The event is scheduled to take place Saturday, November 17, 2018 with a bell time of 7 pm.  Tickets are on sale now at www.AuraMaine.com.

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

Team Pennsylvania Defeats Team New Jersey in Inaugural MMA Pro League Fight Card at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

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Click HERE for Photos from Mike Dorsi/MMA Pro League

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 16, 2018) – The newest entity in MMA, MMA Pro League, launched Saturday as Team Pennsylvania led by head coach Daniel Gracie defeated Team New Jersey led by head coach Dan Miller by a score of 14 – 6 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and on FloCombat.com.

 

 

 

In the opening bout on FloCombat.com, Joseph Penafiel of Team Pennsylvania defeated Turpal Khamzayev of Team New Jersey by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28), securing three points for Team Pennsylvania.

 

 

“Getting that first win for my team meant everything,” said Penafiel. “I wanted to set the tone for my team and let everyone know we’re here to bang. I knew (Khamzayev) was tough, but I’m way too much for him. Even when he tried to strike me I was able to stay comfortable. And in the grappling department I don’t think many people can mess with me.”

 

 

 

The second official team bout saw Cody Hier of Team Pennsylvania secure a TKO victory over Gabriel Ruiz of Team New Jersey 3:43 into round two and earning Team Pennsylvania five more points, expanding their lead 8 – 0.

 

 

 

“I finally feel like I’m hitting my rhythm in the cage,” said Hier. “I did everything that I could to help Team Pennsylvania get the win tonight. I could tell Ruiz was out and he was quitting. When I hit him with that first big ground and pound, I felt how well I tagged him. And then when he tried to go to his side that’s when I really got aggressive and finished him.”

 

 

 

In the third fight, Team New Jersey’s Claudio Ledesma won by unanimous decision (29-27, 30-27, 30-27) over Andre Bernardo of Team Pennsylvania, earning Team New Jersey their first three points and tightening the team contest 8 – 3.

 

 

 

“I was glad to do my part for my team,” said Ledesma. “I’m a little mad that I wasn’t able to stop him, though. I hit him with everything but the kitchen sink, but I just couldn’t finish him. After the second round, once I realized that I probably wasn’t going to finish (Bernardo), I knew my main goal was to just secure the win and that’s what I did.”

 

 

 

The fourth official contest of the night featured a unanimous decision (29-27, 29-27, 29-27) victory by Zedekiah Montanez of Team Pennsylvania over Mike Pagano of Team New Jersey, capturing three more points for Team Pennsylvania and growing the lead 11 – 3.

 

 

 

“It felt great to get the win. I was just trying to listen to my coach and my teammates,” said Montanez. “I also had my son right there watching me tonight. He helps remind me what I do this for. But tonight, I was happy to get this experience under my belt and get the win for my team.”

 

 

 

In the evening’s fifth bout, Team Pennsylvania’s Rafael Celestino defeated Team New Jersey’s Emmanuel Walo by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28). With Celestino’s win, Team Pennsylvania collected three more points, widening the score 14 – 3, and officially securing Team Pennsylvania victory.

 

 

 

“I’m very happy with my win and to be able to help my team earn the victory tonight,” said Celestino. “Walo is a very tough opponent and he came to fight tonight, but I did enough to get the win and am happy with my performance.”

 

 

 

The sixth and final official contest showcased an exhilarating finale as Kevin Sears of Team New Jersey scored a unanimous decision (29-28, 29-27, 29-27) over Ahmed Samir of Team Pennsylvania, making the final team score 14 – 6 in favor of Team Pennsylvania.

 

 

 

“I went in there and fought for my team, but I was also fighting for my daughter and my family,” said Sears. “I’m doing this to make my daughter’s life better. She helps push me and drives me to fight. Samir had me shook in the first round, and then again in the second, but I just dug deep and did what I needed to get this win.”

 

 

 

“The way we won showed me a lot about my team,” said coach Gracie. “We won decisively and showed the type of performance that I’ve come to expect from my guys.

 

 

 

“MMA needs innovation and something new to excite the fans and help bring the masses to our sport,” added Gracie. “I think MMA Pro League and this team concept is exactly what will help bring that added attention and take this sport to the next level.”

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague,Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie,Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.

 

CBS Sports Network, mixed martial arts, MMA

FFC and Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino Ink Deal That Packs a Powerful Punch!

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Final Fight Championship Makes History, With Multi-Year Combat Sports Agreement Involving, Rio Las Vegas and CBS Sports Network

LAS VEGAS, NV, (Sept. 14, 2018) – One of the fastest growing combat sports promotion companies in the world, Final Fight Championship (FFC), and Caesars Entertainment’s Rio Las Vegas, will deliver a weekly combat sports series called, “Fight Dome”, which debuts on Friday, Sept. 28, and will air live on CBSSN (CBS Sports Network).

The groundbreaking announcement marks the first time in the history of Las Vegas that a combat sports promotion company has established residency inside of a resort casino to deliver a weekly show involving multi-disciplines including, Boxing, Kickboxing and MMA.

“History will be made on Friday, Sept. 28,” said Orsat Zovko, President and Founder of Final Fight Championship. “We (FFC) are thrilled to be a part of this landmark agreement with Rio Las Vegas and CBS Sports Network.”

Fight Dome events will broadcast live on CBS Sports Network, Friday at 7 p.m. (PST) and 10 p.m. (EST) with the first official event, “Night of Champions”, debuting on Friday, Sept. 28. “Night of Champions”, will feature all three disciplines (Boxing, Kickboxing and MMA) and every fight will be for the FFC World Championship Belt!

All of the heart-pounding FFC action will take place inside of the all-new, Fight Dome Las Vegas, which is an intimate venue located inside of Rio Las Vegas that delivers combat sports fans, the experience of a lifetime.

“Our fans will literally be right on top of the action the entire time,” said Zovko. “This is every combat sports fan’s dream… You’ll be sitting so close, you’ll feel like you’re the one in the ring fighting!”

General ticket prices begin at $69. Tickets are available at any Las Vegas Caesars Entertainment Box Office, by calling 702-777-2782 or 855-234-7469 or online at Ticketmaster.com. For groups of 10 or more call 866-574-3851 or email EntertainmentGroupSales@Caesars.com.

About Final Fight Championship

Respected international combat sports promoter, Orsat Zovko, launched Final Fight Championship® (FFC®) in 2013. FFC has since held 30 successful dual-discipline events comprised of professional kickboxing and world class mixed martial arts. Featuring marquis athletes such as Satoshi Ishii, Mirko Cro Cop, Mladen Brestovac and Robin van Roosmalen. FFC presents live sports broadcasts in more than 50 countries around the world, across four continents, appearing on CBS Sports Network, Fight Channel Worldwide, among other sports and media properties.

For more information, please visit FinalFightChampionship.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Follow @FFCFighting

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SHOWTIME SPORTS® RELEASES CONTROVERSIAL THOMAS MATTICE vs. ZHORA HAMAZARYAN FULL-LENGTH FIGHT IN ADVANCE OF REMATCH FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION

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Immediate Rematch Set For Co-Feature Of Tripleheader Featuring Devin Haney vs. Juan Carlos Burgos From Pechanga Resort Casino In Temecula, Calif.

 

Photo Credit: Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

 

Watch, Share or Embed Mattice vs. Hamazaryan: https://s.sho.com/2OhsH9G

WHAT: Fans can relive the controversial first fight between lightweight contenders Thomas Mattice and Zhora Hamazaryan, available now in its entirety on SHOWTIME Boxing YouTube channel ahead of the rematch September 28 in the second of back-to-back Fridays of ShoBox: The New Generation action.

In one of the most widely disputed fights of 2018, Mattice (13-0, 10 KOs) kept his undefeated record intact when he overcame a knockdown in the second round to escape with the eight-round split-decision victory over the previously undefeated Hamazaryan (9-1, 6 KOs). Two judges scored the fight 76-75 in favor of Mattice with the third judge scoring it 77-74 in favor of Hamazaryan.

Less than three months after judges in Iowa awarded Mattice what Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood called “the worst decision I’ve ever seen in the history of ShoBox”, Mattice and Hamazaryan will face off in the co-feature of the ShoBox telecast from Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif.

Hamazaryan, who recently returned stateside after an extended stay to be with family and train in his native Armenia, is looking forward to his opportunity to exact revenge.

“I respect Thomas Mattice,” said Hamazaryan, who is currently training with John Pullman and Buddy McGirt. “He fought a good fight last time, but everyone knows I won the fight and he does too. I respect that I got a rematch and we can settle this once and for all.

“My game plan is to do the same thing I did last time, but just more pressure and aggression. Because of what happened last time, I can’t leave it up to judges. I must get the knockout. If I don’t, then the same thing will happen again and I will get robbed. I can’t have that.”

Mattice, who has watched the July fight multiple times, is hoping to prove that his decision win was no fluke.

“It was important to me to get this rematch so that I can display to the fans the kind of fighter I am and show that I deserved to win the first fight. I’m looking to continue my rise and show the world that I’m the real deal.

“We’re just trying to work on the mistakes we made in the first fight. He may try to do things differently this time, but we’ll adjust and be ready come fight night. It was a controversial decision but I have to remember that at the end of the day I’m a fighter and not a judge. I just have to go out there and fight my fight, and things will be taken care of.”

The September 28 ShoBox is headlined by top undefeated lightweight prospect Devin Haney (19-0, 13 KOs) facing three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos (33-2-2, 21 KOs). The opener will see two undefeated middleweight prospects meet as Cem Kilic (11-0, 7 KOs) and Donnie Marshall (9-0, 6 KOs) face off in the ninth matchup of undefeated prospects of 2018 on ShoBox: The New Generation. The previous Friday, Jon Fernandez (16-0-0, 14 KOs), one of the top prospects in boxing and Sergio Martinez protégé, will face O’Shaquie Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in the main event of a ShoBox telecast from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

For more information visit www.sho.com/sportsfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation

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 77 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.

M-1, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia, UFC

M-1 Global veterans & ex-champions Talk about M-1 & UFC Moscow

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SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (September 14, 2018) – M-1 Global veterans and former champions recently expressed their thoughts and opinions about their M-1 experiences and tomorrow’s (Sept. 15) UFC Moscow card at Olympic Stadium in Moscow.

Alexei Oleinik, M-1 Global veteran, vs. Mark Hunt in UFC Moscow main event:

“M-1 Global is a great Russian promotion and I really enjoyed the time when I fought there. Each fight for me was another step in my career. We did not choose opponents, had rated fights, and took part in the Grand-Prix.”

Alexander Volkov, former M-1 Challenge heavyweight champion:

“One of the best moments that I had in M-1 Global was the victory for our team at M-1 Selection. At that time there were team competitions in M-1 Global and I miss that format. Another great moment was when I won the M-1 Challenge heavyweight title. Every important fight is very memorable.”

“My first M-1 Global fights were in M-1 Selection team competitions, which helped me as a young fighter to start my career, find my place in this sport and understand that I belong to MMA. At the time it was a great opportunity for young athletes to demonstrate their skills and show up on local TV stations, so M-1 Global was the first step in my professional career.”

“UFC has a huge impact on development of the Russian MMA market. The partnership between M-1 Global and UFC gives M-1 Global many advantages on the local market and makes it much more attractive for Russian fighters. All mixed martial artists have a dream to fight in the UFC and now the way is clear. As we’ve seen many times, top fighters and champions from M-1 Global compete on the highest level in the UFC.”

Ramazan Emeev, former M-1 Challenge middleweight champion, vs. Stefan Sekulic at UFC Moscow

“I feel some responsibility for this fight because I’m fighting at home. Many friends and fans will come to root for me and I don’t want to let them down. I want to put on a great show, win the fight, and make everyone who’s supporting me happy.

“Since I’m fighting at home, I don’t have to fly somewhere and acclimate. In my previous fights I had to fly across the ocean to compete. Now, it’s their turn, and everything will be by my rules.”

Rustam Khabilov M-1 Global veteran, vs. Kajan Johnson at UFC Moscow

“There’s a great responsibility fighting at home when the crowd is waiting for you. It doesn’t matter whether it’s M-1 Global or UFC. Crowds are the same. Many friends and fans will be worried, and they’ll come to root for me, so I owe this victory to them. I must win. That’s why I trained three times as hard for this fight. Now, I’m anticipating an opponent. Everything will be fine.”

Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, one of best MMA coaches in the world and father of UFC and former M-1 Global fighter Kabib Nurmagomedov

“M-1 Global is the history of Russian MMA and it’s not a coincidence that many fighters who started their careers in M-1 Global are very successful in the MMA world. M-1 Global was a foundation for mixed martial arts in Russia, faced some challenges, learned from their mistakes and kept moving forward. Most Russian fighters who are now signed with the UFC came exactly from M-1 Global.”

INFORMATION:

www.M1Global.tv

Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
@M1Global
Facebook:
Upcoming M-1 Challenge Event:
Sept. 28 – M-1 Challenge 97 in Kazan, Russia
boxing, FITETV

Canelo vs GGG2 on FITE commentary + availability

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Ahead of Canelo vs. GGG 2 live stream this Saturday, FITE has announced the team on commentary for the English stream. Beto Duran, Doug Fischer and Kevin Kelley will be commentators in English. Jorge Milhe and Ernesto Amador will be on Spanish commentary. FITE viewers will have the option to watch the biggest boxing fight of the year watch in English and Spanish on their preferred viewing device. The fight is available to order online on FITE.TV, on the FITE mobile apps, FITE ROKU Channel and Apple TV.

FITE will also make the show available for fans in Canada, Russia, Spain and Africa. The event will be available for catch-up viewing until Midnight 9/20.

 

Canelo vs GGG 2 on FITE

 

boxing

Greg Cohen Promotions, Murphy’s Boxing and 12 Round Promotions Sign Undefeated Super Featherweight Abraham ‘El Super’ Nova to Multi-Year Co-Promotional Contract

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Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP), Murphy’s Boxing and 12 Round Promotions are proud to announce the signing of undefeated super featherweight Abraham “El Super” Nova to a multi-year co-promotional contract.

Nova (12-0, 10 KOs), born in Puerto Rico and now residing in Albany, New York, has looked like a future champion while trotting the globe and winning all his fights. The 24-year-old was last seen in May, scoring a KO 7 over Italy’s Hassan Nourdine at the RTL Spiroudome in Charleroi, Belgium.

Before his 2016 debut, Nova had an incredible amateur career in which he went 167-11 with 60 KOs and was once the #1 ranked 141-lb. boxer in the United States. The prestigious titles he won include national and international victories at the 2014 USA Nationals, the 2014 Independent World Cup in the Dominican, and Gold at the 2014 Cheo Aponte Tournament, and the 2015 Olympic Qualifiers. He is also a five-time New York Golden Gloves Champion.

“I’m very happy I got to associate myself with people of such good quality,” said a happy Abraham of the deal. “I’m looking forward to winning a world title in the very near future!”

“This is a fantastic young fighter and I want to thank my partners, Ken Casey from Murphy’s Boxing and Alain Vanackère from 12 Round,” said Greg Cohen of GCP. “Abraham Nova is an extreme talent and will soon be a world champion. He’s also a pleasure to work with and I’m very happy to be involved.”

“Murphy’s Boxing have been lucky enough to work with Abraham Nova on several of his fights,” said Ken Casey of Murphy’s Boxing. “He is one of the classiest kids in boxing with an unmatched dedication. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that he is an amazing fighter with incredible credentials and some of the scariest power I have ever seen. We are thrilled to be co promoting Abraham.”

“It is a pleasure and an honor for me to be able to accompany a future world champion in his career,” said Alain Vanackère from 12 Round. “What an incredible opportunity to be able to live this unique experience with two esteemed promoters, GCP and Murphy’s Boxing. I think we will have a lot of success and pleasure working together.”

Cohen says he’s not sure which 130-lb champion will be targeted (WBC: Miguel Berchelt, WBA: Gervonta Davis, IBF: Tevin Farmer and WBO: Masayuki Ito), but the plan is to move swiftly.

“We will immediately begin plans to put Abraham in against rated fighters and get him up the ladder as quickly as possible,” he said. “This young man has shown every indication he is ready for the next level of boxing. It’s a very exciting time to be in the Abraham Nova business.”

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

MMA PRO LEAGUE MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Inaugural Event This Saturday, September 15 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City & Streaming Live on FloCombat.com
 
Head Coach Dan Miller Leads Team New Jersey Against
Head Coach Daniel Gracie & Team Pennsylvania
 
Click HERE for Photos from MMA Pro League

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 13, 2018) – As fight night approaches for the inaugural MMA Pro League event, fighters from head coach Dan Miller’s Team New Jersey and head coach Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania participated in media workouts Thursday at Hard Rock Live in Atlantic City.

The newest entity in MMA kicks off this Saturday, September 15 at the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City in bouts streaming live on FloCombat.com (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” are available at Ticketmaster.com.

The full bout sheet is available HERE. Here is what the fighters in attendance and league executives had to say Thursday:

DAN MILLER, Head Coach of Team New Jersey

“It means a lot to be coach for Team New Jersey. It’s my home state and it’s a big event for it. I love the team concept and I’m proud to be in this position.

“We’re here representing the whole state. We’ve had the team training together and building camaraderie. It’s like a wrestling match style where each team is sending people out.

“Everybody looks good and healthy in training camp. I think we’re ready to go. All of these fights are going to be fantastic. These are matched very well and it should be a fun night. Team Pennsylvania better be ready, because our guys are.”

DANIEL GRACIE, Head Coach of Team Pennsylvania

“Everything in training has been perfect. I’ve been working with most of these guys for a long time already so we just kept up what we’ve been working on. With the team concept we have a lot more people to focus on instead of just one or two. We already had good chemistry though, so everything went smoothly.

“Our amateur guys turning pro are going to show that they belong in these fights. It’s time to grab the spotlight. Your first fight is the best opportunity to make an impression.

“I think that MMA needs something new that can draw people’s attention. This is a great chance to bring in the fans who don’t pay attention to MMA and give them a chance to get behind their local teams.”

HANI DARWISH, CEO of MMA Pro League

“Fans should expect something completely different than they’re used to. MMA has always been a team sport and I’m glad we’re going to be the ones to expose that to the world. These guys have always trained with a team, because you can’t train by yourself.

“We believe this is going to be the new era of MMA. We’re going to give cities and states all around the world the chance to really stand behind their own teams.

“There’s been a lot of hard work and strategic planning leading to this and it’s finally coming to fruition. It’s a vision that we implemented and once we got the right people we knew it was a theme we believed in so much that we decided to execute.”

MARK TAFFET, President of MMA Pro League

“We’re going to create a legacy in this sport that is going to last for generations to come. I had the privilege of launching HBO PPV 30 years ago and I saw a lot of history be made. Now I have the chance to do it again, along with my partner Hani Darwish.

“My first fight at HBO PPV was right here in Atlantic City for Evander Holyfield vs. George Foreman. It’s very significant for me to be back here in Atlantic City at the brand new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to have a chance to create another chapter of great moments.

“One of the most important things to MMA Pro League is to have the right coaches leading the teams. Dan Miller and Daniel Gracie are both natural leaders, mentors, great former fighters and great teachers. They represent everything we want to represent with MMA Pro League.”

MARK KOLKER (NJ) vs. ZULKARNAIYN KAMCHYBEKOV (PA) – Middleweights

Kolker: “This is really exciting and I’m very thankful for the opportunity. We’re doing something different than anyone else is doing and I think it can be something special.

“I know that I have an opponent who can wrestle and who’s undefeated as an amateur. I feel like I have the tools to beat him. I can catch, slip and put him away with something early. Or if he wants to go the distance we can do that too. I predict I knock him out.”

Kamchybekov: “This is my first pro fight and I’m very happy to have the opportunity. I don’t know too much about my opponent but I will be prepared. I have worked very hard and I’m going to show my wrestling and striking to get this win.”

GABRIEL RUIZ (NJ) vs. CODY HIER (PA) – Featherweights

Ruiz: “It feels good to get back in the cage and feel the adrenaline. I’m hoping to give everyone a great fight.

“I know my opponent is a wrestler so he’s going to try to take me down. He’s not going to want to stand up with me, but I’m prepared for a lot of wrestling. I’m trying to knock him out and go eat a burger.”

Hier: “It’s amazing to be a part of this MMA Pro League venture. It’s such a great opportunity and I’m glad to be on the ground floor.

“My opponent has taken some time off but I know he’s going to be ready to fight. I’m not sleeping on him. This is going to be an action fight.”

CLAUDIO LEDESMA (NJ) vs. ANDRE BERNARDO (PA) – Bantamweights

Ledesma: “It’s awesome to be able to represent New Jersey. I’m so happy to have this opportunity. This has been a great experience so far.

“I don’t know too much about my opponent. I like to focus on what I do and make adjustments when I have to.”

Bernardo: “It’s been a hard road getting to where I am today and I’m grateful to be fighting for MMA Pro League.

“I’m facing a very experienced fighter. He has a black belt in jiu-jitsu and is a well-rounded fighter. He’s still going to have to get in
there and fight me. I know we’re going to go to the ground eventually and I plan to choke him out.”

MIKE PAGANO (NJ) vs. ZEDEKIAH MONTANEZ (PA) – Welterweights

Pagano: “I’m proud to be a part of this first MMA Pro League show. I’m excited to represent my state in the cage.

“My opponent seems very well composed. He likes to sit back and box before looking to throw. Everyone has a plan until you get punched in the face, so I’m going to go out there and just fight.”

Montanez: “It feels really good to be in this position. Fighting professionally has been a dream of mine and now it’s here. I’ve worked so hard to get to this moment and I’m really excited.

“I know that I’m facing a wrestler who likes to put pressure on and come straight forward. We’re prepared for anything he throws at me and I will adapt to anything he throws at me. It’s going to be a war but I just have to go out there and be the best I can be.”

JUSTIN OSBORN (NJ) vs. ANDY JIMENEZ (PA) – Welterweights

Osborn: “I’m excited to go out there and do what I love to do. I can’t wait to get in that cage and stare across at a guy who’s ready to take my head off.

“I know I’m facing an undefeated amateur making his pro debut so I’m ready for anything. I’m ready for the whole nine yards. I’m predicting a finish.”

JOSEPH PINAFIEL (PA) vs. TURPAL KHAMZAYEV (NJ) – Bantamweights

Pinafiel: “It means everything to me to have this platform. This is an opportunity to build upon my career. I’ve had amazing treatment here. I’m going for it all on Saturday.

“I’m facing a tough guy in his own backyard. But I’m here to make a statement. I want to take him out and give everyone a good fight. I’m hoping he brings the best out of me. I am going to win. I’m ready to finish him any way possible.”

KEVIN SEARS (NJ) vs. AHMED SAMIR (PA) – Heavyweights

Sears: “This means a lot to me. I’ve fought in 10 leagues and this has been the best experience by far. MMA Pro League just cares about their fighters.

“Samir looks really tough and I know he has a lot of experience. Everyone is dangerous at this level and it only takes on punch to go to sleep. I’m going to go for the finish right from the start.”

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To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague, Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie, Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.