All posts by FNU47

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

GET TO KNOW MMA PRO LEAGUE’S TEAM PENNSYLVANIA

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Head Coach Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania Battles
Team New Jersey in MMA Pro League Inaugural Event Saturday, September 15 From Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City & Streaming on FloCombat.com
 
Team Pennsylvania Talks Motivation, Fighting Style & More!
 

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 7, 2018) – As the inaugural fight night approaches for the newest entity in MMA, MMA Pro League, get to know the fighters for head coach Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania before they battle Team New Jersey Saturday, September 15 from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and streaming live on FloCombat.com.

Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” on Saturday, September 15, featuring Team New Jersey vs. Team Pennsylvania, are available at Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania fighters had to say as they prepare to take on head coach Dan Miller’s Team New Jersey:

 

 

ZEDEKIAH MONTANEZ

Weight Class: Featherweight

Hometown: North Philadelphia, PA

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight because it is what I love. There’s no better feeling than the rush of overcoming the uncertainty in a cage or ring with complete faith and belief in your ability.”

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“I always pay my homage to the fighters that led me towards this path. Boxers like Fernando Vargas and Floyd Mayweather. Plus, MMA champions like Connor McGregor, Michael Chandler and more. But I am my own self. I do take a bit of every fighter, shake it up and come out with whatever I’ve been working on.”

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I don’t try to focus on one solid background. I am a mixed martial artist now. I always keep an open mind, and try to dig into all aspects of the game.”

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“I’m excited to be working with MMA Pro League, and by the looks of it, everything is great! They’re a good up-and-coming, humble and respectable organization that’s trying to bring change to the game, and together the sky is the limit for all of us.”

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Pennsylvania?

“The whole experience of being from here. It’s where I was raised. My family and all of my ups and downs happen here.”

 

 

CODY HIER

Weight Class: Bantamweight

Hometown: Davison, MI

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight to give my family the things I never had.”

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“I’m a fan of lots of fighters, but my style is all my own.”

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I have a strong wrestling background that has led to my MMA career.”

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“MMA Pro League is the next big thing and I’m glad to be a part of the ground floor. It’s going to be a great ride.”

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Pennsylvania?

“The sports fans! There’s really nothing like them.”

 

 

JOE PENAFIEL

Weight Class: 130 lb catchweight

Hometown: Orlando, FL

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight for pride, family and money.”

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“Bruce Lee, but I steal from everyone.”

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I practice jeet kune do and have experience wrestling.”

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“Because they’re going to put together challenging fights and they have top-class treatment of their fighters.”

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Pennsylvania?

“I like the ladies and the Philly cheesesteaks.”

 

 

ANDY JIMENEZ

Weight Class: Lightweight

Hometown: Queens, NY

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight because I have a passion for mixed martial arts and I’m a badass.”

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“My favorite MMA fighter is Georges St-Pierre.”

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“My fighting background is jiu jitsu under Renzo Gracie.”

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“MMA Pro League is the right fit for me because I have a versatile background and I would like to portray this within the team structure.”

 

 

What is your favorite thing about Pennsylvania?

“My favorite thing about Pennsylvania is Renzo Gracie PA.”

# # #

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.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DANNY GARCIA: THE APPROACH

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*** SHOWTIME BOXING VIDEO ALERT ***

 

 

 

Former World Champion Talks About His Mindset Before He Enters the Ring

 

Garcia Faces Shawn Porter in WBC Welterweight World Championship Bout

 

This Saturday, 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT Live On SHOWTIME

Photo Credit: SHOWTIME

 

Watch, View & Share Via YouTube: https://s.sho.com/2NWXuZn

 

WHAT: Former Welterweight World Champion Danny Garcia takes you on his ring walk and explains how he prepares to enter the ring in this new digital offering from SHOWTIME Sports®.  DANNY GARCIA: THE APPROACH provides insight into Garcia’s routine as he shares his thoughts before he climbs through the ropes.

 

 

 

“I don’t have headphones in,” Garcia said. “I like to be relaxed. Here. I’m in the moment… As soon as I get in the ring, Pops [father Angel Garcia] goes, ‘Come on, Danny!’ I can look into his eyes and I know how he’s feeling. And when the bell rings, I’m in a whole different element.”

 

 

 

Garcia, the former unified 140-pound champion and former WBC welterweight titleholder, will meet the fan favorite and former welterweight champion Shawn Porter tomorrow night, September 8, live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

 

 

Live coverage of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features Polish slugger Adam Kownacki and former heavyweight champion Charles Martin opening up the telecast with a 10-round heavyweight attraction. In the co-feature, 147-pound contender Yordenis Ugas will battle against Argentine power puncher Cesar Barrionuevo in a welterweight world-title eliminator showdown.

 

 

 

The night kicks off with SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT as welterweight world champion Keith Thurman joins boxing broadcaster Ray Flores and analyst Chris Mannix to preview the night’s tripleheader and call live undercard bouts from ringside in Brooklyn. SHOWTIME’s seventh digital presentation of live boxing in 2018 will stream on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and will feature five-division champion Amanda Serrano as she embarks on a quest to conquer a title in a sixth weight class.

boxing, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE TO OPEN SEASON II ON FRIDAY, SEPT. 14 WITH AN ACTION-PACKED PHILLY CARD FIT FOR KINGS

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Fan-friendly, interactive FREE series with nearly 1.5 million fans served looks to continue momentum in year two.

NEW YORK (Sept. 6, 2018) – After a 17-show inaugural campaign that attracted 84,000 views per event and nearly 1.5 million views for the series, Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE next turns the corner to year two, looking to build upon its meteoric rise. Season II of the interactive and free fight series opens in the Fighting City of Philadelphia on Friday, Sept. 14, with an action-packed King’s Boxing card live from 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

The fan-friendly series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience showcased more than 300 fighters during 17 live event broadcasts in its first 12 months. In doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

 

 

 

“We are extremely proud of what FIGHTNIGHT LIVE accomplished since May 2017. We’ve had 17 shows originating from New York, Boston, Atlantic City, Philadelphia, New England, Phoenix and America’s Heartland, where many different promotions gained an incredible amount of exposure via this exciting, truly social platform. To be able to have several events where more than 150,000 people have tuned in only scratches the surface on the market interest for these events, and we are ready to take FIGHTNIGHT LIVE to the next level in year two,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media.

 

 

 

“Beyond the numbers, we’re really pleased with the way the shows have been presented and produced,” Fratto continued. “We’ve been able to showcase more than 300 up-and-coming fighters to fight fans all over the world, and help them expand their bases. And we’ve been able to invite our viewers to be part of the action by fostering real-time interaction between our broadcasters and viewers on the fight activity, the decisions and the knockouts; it’s the next-best thing to having a ringside seat.”

 

 

 

“King’s Promotions is very excited to be working with Mark and the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE team,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Boxing, the eleventh promoter FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has showcased over its first 18 shows. “I believe we will bring the best-quality boxing to FIGHTNIGHT LIVE.”

 

 

 

In the main event, rising super middleweight prospect, Brandon “B-Rob” Robinson (10-1, 7 KOs) steps up in class when he takes on knockout artist Ernest Amuzu (24-3, 22 KOs), originally from Ghana. Also on the bill, undefeated three-time Olympian Anvar Yunusov (4-0, 1 KO) takes on 21-fight veteran Angel Monreal (10-10-1, 3 KOs).  Other undefeated fighters seeing action will be Shyngyskhan Tazhibay (6-0, 2 KOs), Daiyann Butt (1-0), Alejandro Jimenez (2-0, 1 KO),Chrystian Peguero (2-0, 1 KO) and Keeshawn Williams (2-0-1, 1 KO).

 

 

 

 

Now at more than 1.4 million views for the series, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has continued to deliver impressive numbers throughout its rookie season, which included seven live shows in the first five months of 2018:

 

 

  • Over the first 11 months of Season I programming, the numbers on the 17-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of 83,714 fight fans tuning in per event and more than 1.4 million fans served.

 

  • The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) and the March 17 Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (150,001) all logged 150,000 or more views, and collectively the 17-show series has seen a total of more than 30,000 total hours of Facebook video consumed by 1,423,132 users across all devices.

 

  • In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 173,000 collective live post engagements(more than 10,200 per show), including more than 116,000 “likes” or “loves,” almost 30,000 comments and nearly 10,000 shares.

 

  • FIGHTNIGHT LIVE broadcasts are viewed by76 percent men, 24 percent women. The top demographic is comprised ofmales ages 25-34, which encompasses approximately 30.0 percent of the audience, on average.

 

  • The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” set a new bar with 224,658 viewsand the Sept. 15-16 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Feb. 10 Hard-Hitting Promotions “Philly Fight Night” show stands out individually with 3,421 live hours of content viewed, while the Sept. 15 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17 Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for shares with 2,182.

 

  • The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 79,000 fans and more than 82,000 followers. And Facebook itself has taken notice – the world’s No. 1 social network recently profiled FIGHTNIGHT LIVE on its “Success Stories” media blog, noting the series’ use of industry best practices for production and interactivity: https://www.facebook.com/facebookmedia/success-stories/fightnight

 

 

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

 

 

 

More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Fall 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

CBS Sports Network, mixed martial arts, MMA

CBS SPORTS NETWORK ANNOUNCES TELEVISION PARTNERSHIP WITH FINAL FIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP THROUGH 2020

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Publicity photo above – Orsat Zovko, President/Founder FFC (left), Billy Stone, Coordinating Producer & Director, Programming, CBS Sports (right).

First FFC event Premieres Live on CBS Sports Network Friday, Sept. 28 at 10 PM, ET From The Fight Dome at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas

 

 

 

CBS Sports Network and Final Fight Championship (FFC) announced today a multi-year partnership to make CBS Sports Network the exclusive television home of FFC. The first FFC event premieres live on CBS Sports Network from The Fight Dome at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on Friday, Sept. 28 (10:00PM, EST).

 

 

CBS Sports Network will air eight FFC events on Friday’s throughout the remainder of 2018. A champion will be crowned after each event with a belt as part of the national telecast.

 

 

“We are thrilled to be given the opportunity to showcase combat sports on a National network,” said Orsat Zovko, president and founder of Final Fight Championship, “It’s an honor to partner with CBS Sports Network and nationally televise the new Fight Dome with championship-level fights to fans across the country.”

 

 

FFC events are composed of combat sports from multiple disciplines, including boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts. All events will take place in the dedicated Fight Dome venue at Rio Las Vegas.

 

 

CBS Sports Network, the 24-hour home of CBS Sports, is widely available through all major cable, satellite and telco distributors as well as via OTT streaming service providers YouTube TV, fuboTV, PlayStation Vue, DirecTV and Hulu. Additionally, a live CBS Sports Network stream is available through CBSSports.com and the CBS Sports App by authenticating with select providers. For more information, including a full programming schedule, go to www.cbssportsnetwork.com.

 

 

 

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, and Mladden Brestovac. FFC presents live sports broadcasts in more than 50 countries around the world, across four continents, appearing on CBS Sports Network (USA), Fight Channel World (Worldwide), among other sports and media properties. For more information on FFC, please visitwww.finalfightchampionship.com

 

* * * * *

boxing

Undefeated welterweight Terrel Williams takes on David Grayton in co-feature bout on Friday, September 14th at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

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Philadelphia, PA (September 6, 2018) -Undefeated welterweight Terrel  Williams will take on David Grayton in an intriguing 10-round  bout that will now be part of an already packed fight card on Friday, September 14th at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

In the previously announced main event, Brandon Robinson will  take on veteran Ernest Amuzu in the eight-round super middleweight bout.

 

 

 

The nine-bout card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

 

 

 

Williams (16-0,13 KOs) of Los Angeles, California is making his 1st start of 2018, is coming off a 6th round stoppage over Rosemberg Gomez on November 17th, 2017 in Flitny, Michigan.

 

 

 

Grayton (15-2-1, 11 KOs) of Washington, DC is looking to get back in the win column after dropping a 10-round unanimous decision to Miguel Cruz on November 21, 2017 in Saint Petersburg, Florida.

 

 

 

Super Featherweight Anvar Yunusov will take on Angel Monreal in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds.

 

 

 

In a six-round welterweight bout, Shyngyskhan Tazhibay (6-0, 2 KOs) of Washington, D.C. battles Virgil Winfield (1-0, 1 KO) from Concord, NC

 

 

 

In four-round bouts:

 

 

 

Jerrod Miner (1-1-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles Alejandro Jimenez (2-0, 1 KO) of New Hope, PA in a bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

Crystian Peguero (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on pro debuting Yueri Andujar of Reading, PA in a featherweight contest.

 

 

 

Christopher Burgos (0-2-1) of Philadelphia fights Robert Ramos (1-5-1, 1 KO) of Allentown, PA in a super featherweight scrap.

 

 

 

Keeshawn Williams (2-0, 1 KO) of Washington, D.C. will take on Frahad Fatulla of Salt Lake City, Utah (1-1)  in a junior welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Daiyann Butt (1-0) of Philadelphia battles Anthony Smith (1-2-1) of Fresno, California in a junior welterweight bout

 

 

 

There will be a press conference on Wednesday September 12th at The 2300 Arena at 6 PM ET.  The weigh in will take place on Thursday, September 13th at 5 PM ET.

 

 

 

 

Tickets for this great night of boxing can be purchased at www.2300arena.com for $100, $75 and $50

Combate Americas, mixed martial arts, MMA, women's MMA

COMBATE AMERICAS ANNOUNCES WOMEN’S STRAWWEIGHT CO-MAIN EVENT BETWEEN  “SUPER MELY” MARTINEZ AND FRANCIS HERNANDEZ LIVE ON UNIVISION DEPORTES NETWORK FROM LONG BEACH, CALIF. ON FRIDAY, SEPT. 28

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Below: Undefeated, 21-year-old knockout artist Melissa “Super Mely” Martinez (left) of Mexico City, Mexico will take on hard-hitting Francis “Hit Girl” Hernandez (right) of Camuy, Puerto Rico in the live, Univision Deportes Network (UDN)-televised, Combate Americas co-main event in Long Beach, Calif. on Friday, Sept. 28.  Photo credit: Scott Hirano/Combate Americas

FIVE OTHER NEW BOUTS ANNOUNCED FOR STACKED EVENT HEADLINED BY FIRST-EVER, ONE-ROUND
“COPA COMBATE” TOURNAMENT QUALIFYING BOUTS

Tickets for “Combate Americas: Camino a Copa Combate” on sale now

NEW YORK – September 6, 2018 – Combate Americas today announced a women’s strawweight (115 pounds) co-main event bout between undefeated knockout artist Melissa “Super Mely” Martinez (4-0) and Francis “Hit Girl” Hernandez (3-2) for the premier Hispanic Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports franchise’s live, Univision Deportes Network (UDN) telecast (12 a.m. ET/9 pm. PT) from The Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, Calif. on Friday, Sept. 28.

 

The event, “Combate Americas: Camino a Copa Combate,” will be headlined by the previously announced, first two-ever “COPA COMBATE” qualifying fights, the winners of which will represent their respective countries – the U.S. and Mexico – in the one-night, eight-man, $100,000 grand prize tournament that will take place in the featherweight (145 pounds) division on a November date to be announced soon.

 

An explosive Muay Thai stylist, the 21-year-old Martinez of Mexico City, Mexico has been on a warpath since she made her Combate Americas promotional debut on June 30, 2017, scoring a thunderous, second round (2:45) head kick TKO on Yajaira Romo.

 

In her last effort on April 20, Martinez dominated Argentina’s Ivanna Martinenghi for three consecutive rounds of action at “Combate Estrellas II” in Monterrey, Mexico before earning  a unanimous decision victory.

 

Fighting out of Little Rock, Ark. where she is serving as an active duty Staff Sergeant with the U.S. Army, the 30-year-old Hernandez, who hails from Camuy, Puerto Rico is coming off an impressive Combate Americas debut performance that saw her submit (rear-naked choke) Shyann Farmer in the second round (2:12) of battle in Sacramento, Calif.

 

Also announced today were five preliminary bout card matchups for the “Combate Americas: Camino a Copa Combate” event, including a bantamweight (135 pounds) battle between Oscar “Jacare” Suarez (4-1) of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain and Carlos Ochoa (3-5) of Indio, Calif.

 

Elsewhere on the preliminary bout card, Dominic Clarke (11-8) of Los Angeles, Calif. will collide with Danny “The Realist” Ramirez (6-4) of Sacramento, Calif. at lightweight (155 pounds).

 

Undefeated Jesse Strader (3-0) of Lancaster, Calif. USA will take on “Handsome” Mario Navarrio (4-5) of Northridge, Calif., USA. In featherweight action.

 

In one of two flyweight (125 pounds) contests announced today, Heinrich Wassmer (6-3) of Highland Park, Calif. will battle David “Farmer of Destruction” Duran (6-4) of Whittier, Calif., while in the other, unbeaten Hugo Aranda (2-0) of Van Nuys, Calif. will square off with “Malicious” Michael Reyes(4-4) of Oxnard, Calif.

 

Additional preliminary bout matchups will be announced soon.

 

In one of the two, single, five-minute round featherweight “COPA COMBATE” tournament qualifying fights that will send the winner to represent the U.S. in the eight-man tournament in November, Erick “The Ghost Pepper” Gonzalez (8-2) of Redondo Beach, Calif. will face Andres “The Bullet” Quintana (14-2) of Roswell, N.M.

 

In the second tournament qualifying fight, the winner of which will represent Mexico at  “COPA COMBATE,” Pablo “El Gallo Negro” Sabori (8-4) of San Luis Rio Colorado, Sonora will collide with Alejandro “El Gallito” Flores (12-1)  of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon.

 

Priced from $30, tickets for “Combate Americas: Camino A Copa Combate” are on sale at The Walter Pyramid’s online ticketing platform, as well at Ticketon.com.

 

Doors at the venue will open at 6 p.m. PT on September 28, and the first preliminary bout will begin at 7 p.m.

# # #

 

 

ABOUT COMBATE AMERICAS
Combate Americas is the premier Hispanic Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports franchise, rapidly becoming the number two sport, after soccer, for Spanish speaking sports fans worldwide.  The Combate Americas franchise includes reality TV programming, live events and mobile programming. The company’s CEO, Campbell McLaren, is universally recognized as the co-founder/co-creator of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). New York Magazine described McLaren as “the marketing genius behind the UFC” and Yahoo! Sports proclaimed that he “knows more about the sport than just about anyone in it today.” With an unprecedented product and a blue-chip ownership and management team, Combate Americas is poised to break new ground and bring about a new era in world championship level MMA competition.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DANNY GARCIA VS. SHAWN PORTER FINAL  PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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“I know I’m the better all-around fighter. I can just do more in the ring than Shawn Porter, period.” – Garcia
 
“I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win this fight. There’s nothing I’ve ever wanted in my entire life more than this.” – Porter
 
Welterweight World Title Showdown Headlines Stacked Night of Action Saturday, September 8 Live on SHOWTIME® from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

BROOKLYN (September 6, 2018) – Welterweight stars Danny Garcia and Shawn Porter went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they battle for the vacant WBC Welterweight World Championship this Saturday, September 8 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features a welterweight title eliminator between Yordenis Ugas and Cesar Barrionuevo and heavyweight action that pits unbeaten Polish slugger Adam Kownacki against former heavyweight champion Charles Martin, all of whom participated in Thursday’s press conference.

 

 

 

The press conference also featured fighters competing in streaming action on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN (7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT) as five-division world champion Amanda Serrano attempts to win a world title in her record sixth weight class when she faces Yamila Esther Reynoso for the WBO 140-pound title. The social media offering will be available on SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and on the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page.

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, in association with DSG Promotions, start at $50 and are on sale now. Tickets 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 press conference participants had to say Thursday from Dream Hotel Downtown in Manhattan:

 

 

 

DANNY GARCIA

 

 

 

“I know I’m the better all-around fighter. I can just do more in the ring than Shawn Porter, period. I’m going to prove it on Saturday.

 

 

 

“It means the world to me to get this belt back. This is a new chapter in my career. I’ve been in a lot of great fights. I’m a seasoned champion. This is a chance to regain something that was mine. This is one of the moments where I have to just go out there and prove myself.

 

 

 

“My style is totally different than Keith Thurman, so I hope Shawn isn’t going off of that fight. I know I’m a better boxer than Shawn Porter and I’m going to make sure everyone else knows it too.

 

 

 

“I absolutely want to unify with Errol Spence Jr. after I win. I want the biggest fights. This would be my fourth world title. All I’ve ever done is face everyone they put in front me and I’ve earned those huge fights.

 

 

 

“This is nothing new to me. I’ve performed at this level for a long time. I’ve put in the hard work. Come Saturday night I’m going to get this victory because I’m the better fighter and a true champion.

 

 

 

“I’m incredibly motivated, but I know that sometimes in life if you want something too much, you don’t get it. I’ve achieved a lot in this sport. This will just add more hardware to my collection.

 

 

 

“I didn’t take any punishment in the Thurman fight. I could have come back two months later. I know that I could have started earlier and been more relentless, but I’m just going to take that into this fight and make the best of it.”

 

 

 

SHAWN PORTER

 

 

 

“The way I’m going to win this fight will change the conversation at welterweight. You’re going to have to wonder whether Errol Spence Jr. and Terrence Crawford have what it takes to beat me. I’m here to put on a great show, win this title and do it in spectacular fashion

 

 

 

“I’m used to being the underdog. I’ve upset people before. I’m looking forward to doing what it takes to be that one to pull it off.

 

 

 

“Styles make fights. One way or another, I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win this fight. There’s nothing I’ve ever wanted in my entire life more than this. I’m out here to take it.

 

 

 

“Anything Danny is coming with, I’m taking it. It’s mine. Whatever it takes, I will not be stopped on Saturday night.

 

 

 

“This means the world to me. This is my goal. I’m a goal-oriented person. I didn’t know when I was going to be fighting for this WBC title, I knew this was my time. This title has so much lineage and history to go along with it and I want to be a part of it.

 

 

 

“I’m setting the tone now for what Danny should expect from fight night. He’s had this before, but this is my goal and this world title is mine to take.

 

 

 

“Danny has to know that he’s getting in the ring with a bull. This isn’t going to be an easy 12 rounds. I’m going to make him earn every inch.”

 

 

 

YORDENIS UGAS

 

 

 

“It’s an honor to be a part of such a big card at Barclays Center. I’m going to do what I need to do. I’m going to put on a great performance, and the rest will take care of itself.

 

 

 

“I think I’ve been the most consistent fighter at welterweight for the last two years. If I take care of business on Saturday, a world title shot will be next.

 

 

 

“My opponent is going to try to make a big name for himself, but it’s my job to study him and make adjustments in the ring to get him out of there.”

 

 

 

CESAR BARRIONUEVO

 

 

 

“I’m very happy to be in this position. It’s going to be a great fight and it’s going to be my announcement to the U.S. I’m very ready to perform on that stage.

 

 

 

“I know that my power and my relentlessness will make this an exciting fight for the fans. I hope that Ugas is not underestimating me, because I want him to be at his very best.

 

 

 

“Fighting in Brooklyn is exciting. I could not be on a more exciting or perfect stage for this fight. Saturday will become the night that everyone remembers for my arrival.”

 

 

 

ADAM KOWNACKI

 

 

 

“After Saturday night, everybody will know my name. I’m the next great heavyweight here in America. I want to make my splash on the national scene.

 

 

 

“Last year against Artur Szpilka was an appetizer and this is my main course for really making myself known as a threat to everyone at heavyweight.

 

 

 

“I can’t wait to hear the Polish fans and see the red and white. It’s going to be another awesome atmosphere and I’m definitely coming to send those fans home happy.

 

 

 

“I feel like I’ve been getting better and better as I get more recognition. A world title fight is not that far in my future. I’m focused on beating Charles Martin first and letting my performance speak for itself.”

 

 

 

CHARLES MARTIN

 

 

 

“I’m going to go in there and put on a show. I’m going to get myself back to the position I want to be. That’s at the top of the heavyweight division.

 

 

 

“I’m in phenomenal shape. I’ve been working hard for two and a half months. We’re back to where we need to be and you’ll see it on Saturday.

 

 

 

“Training in the altitude in California is rough, but it’s great once you get here and feel great. That’s why you work so hard to get in shape, so you can be twice as good on fight night.

 

 

 

“There are a lot of great heavyweight out there. I’m glad that people are giving it the acclaim they deserve. I think all of those guys are beatable and I look forward for my chance to prove it.”

 

 

 

AMANDA SERRANO

 

 

 

“I’m so thankful to have this great opportunity to make history again. I’m going to put on a tremendous show like I always do and give my hometown fans something to cheer for.

 

 

 

“Come Saturday night, I’m super excited to grab this title in a sixth division. It puts me up there with two of the best fighters of all time in Oscar De La Hoya and Manny Pacquiao. I’ve won all of my titles by knockout and I have to keep that streak going on Saturday night.

 

 

 

“Winning this fight is everything. I hope that I’m doing something great for young Latinas coming up in the sport. I’m going to continue to break down these barriers and one day cement my legacy in the Hall of Fame.”

 

 

 

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

 

 

 

“This is going to be a sensational show this Saturday night at Barclays Center. This is about as good as it gets. I’ve said that a number of times over recent years, and that’s a good thing. This is another show loaded with talent and has a sensational main event between two of the best fighters in the world, with styles that will mesh really well.

 

 

 

“Garcia vs. Porter is a can’t miss fight. The winner will establish themselves as one of the best in the welterweight division and all of boxing. There will really be no loser, because there’s no way this isn’t an action-packed clash that lifts up both men in the eyes of fans.

 

 

 

“There is really a terrific undercard on this show including amazing talent off of television. We always have a strong representation from Brooklyn and this show is no different with unbeaten rising prospects Chris Colbert, Richardson Hitchins and Chordale Booker. Plus, Brooklyn’s own Amanda Serrano looking to make history once again.”

 

 

 

CHRIS DEBLASIO, SVP Sports Communications, Showtime Networks Inc.

 

 

 

“We have established ourselves as an industry leader during an incredible time for boxing. We’ve delivered the largest slate of live boxing, with the best fighters in the most pivotal matchups. Our commitment will continue to be second to none.

 

 

 

“In 2018, we have delivered 26 live boxing events and 22 world title fights, far more than anyone else. It’s not just the quantity, but the quality. We’ve had several of the best fights of 2018 and have presented three world title unifications and four women’s world title fights so far.

 

 

 

“Saturday’s main event is a 50-50 matchup that everyone from Sugar Ray Leonard and Manny Pacquaio to Errol Spence Jr. and Keith Thurman have seen as an all-action fight where it’s hard to pick a winner. Danny and Shawn have been presented by our SHOWTIME team 20 times. We’ve seen them come of age, achieve stardom and even navigate setbacks. It all leads up to this fight on Saturday night.”

 

 

 

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of BSE Global

 

 

 

“It’s been six years since we’ve been in Brooklyn. We’ve hosted 260 bouts, 46 title fights and on September 8, our 30th big night of BROOKLYN BOXING™. From the start we wanted to make a commitment to the sport and we’ve done that.

 

 

 

“Fights like Saturday help us standout from other venues in the marketplace. We have two of the best and brightest stars in the sport Saturday night and we can’t wait for them to enter the ring. We welcome back those who are returning to our ring such as Amanda Serrano, Adam Kownacki and Charles Martin, and we also welcome Ugas and Barrionuevo, for their first fights in Brooklyn.

 

 

 

“This is truly an exciting time for the entire sport of boxing. We’re going to continue to reach the masses and provide unprecedented support for our boxing events. Tickets are moving fast and it should be another electric night. That’s what BROOKLYN BOXING™ is all about.”

 

 

 

#          #          #

 

 

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @DannySwift, @ShowtimeShawnP, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxingand www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

amateur boxing, boxing, USA Boxing

Simply the best….. Roy Jones, Jr.

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USA Boxing Alumni Association, Class of 2018 Inductee
 

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (September 6, 2018) – Living legend Roy Jones, Jr., universally recognized as one of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers of all-time, leads a celebrated quintet of Class of 2018 inductees into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

The second annual USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception, held in conjunction with the 2018 USA Boxing Elite and Youth National Championships and Junior and Prep Open, December 2-8, will be held Dec. 7, at the Radisson Hotel (215 S. Temple St.) in Salk Lake City, Utah.

 

 

 

 

In addition to Jones, the Class of 2018 also includes two U.S. Olympic gold medalists and world (professional) champions, Andre Ward and Claressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of Coaching Emanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing official Tom Cleary. The latter two will be posthumously inducted.

 

 

 

The charter class inducted last year included Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield, as well as veteran coaches Roosevelt Sanders and Tom Coulter.

 

 

 

“I am honored to be selected for induction into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame,” Jones commented, “especially as a member of this great class with my fellow inductees.

 

 

 

“Amateur boxing gave me the chance to learn life skills as well as face every other possible scenario inside of the ring.”

 

 

 

Jones, ironically, got into boxing at the age of 11 because of Ali. “I saw Ali vs. (Joe) Frazierand just felt as though Ali and I had the same mental concept on life,” Jones explained.

 

 

 

Jones went on to become one of the best amateur boxers in the world, compiling a reported 121-13 record, including gold medal performances at the 1984 National Junior Olympics and 1986 & 1987 National Golden Gloves Tournaments.

 

 

 

At the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, Jones reached the championship final of the light middleweight division against Park Si-Hun, of South Korea. Jones suffered arguably the worst decision in boxing history, losing 3-2, despite outpunching his opponent, 86 to 32 landed punches, and he was forced to settle for a silver medal. Even his opponent admitted that Jones won their fight, leading the AIBA to later suspend the three judges who selected the hometown fighter as the winner.

 

 

 

How disgraceful was this decision? Jones was selected as the Val Barker Trophy winner as the best boxer of the 1988 Olympics and, due to controversy, the scoring system for Olympic boxing was changed, replacing the 20-point must system with electronic scoring.

 

 

 

“I was angered,” Jones admitted, “yet promoted to prove that I was the best fighter there, and in the world, at that time.”

 

 

 

Jones made his professional debut May 6, 1989, at home in Pensacola, Florida, in a scheduled eight-round bout, in which RJJ stopped Ricky Randall in the second round. His long, glorious journey has produced a remarkable 66-9 (47 KOs) pro record, highlighted by nine major world titles in four different weight classes.

 

 

 

In 2003, Jones defeated John Ruiz by way of a 12-round unanimous decision to become the first former world middleweight champion to become world heavyweight title holder in more than a century.

 

 

 

The possessor of exceptional hand and foot speed, athleticism, movement and reflexes, Jones went undefeated through his first 34 pro fights, 22-3 (14) in world title fights. Against former, present or future world champions, Jones was 19-9 (8 KOs) and included among his victims were greats such as Bernard Hopkins, James Toney, Mike McCallum,Vinnie Pazienza, Virgil Hill, Antonio Tarver and Felix Trinidad.

 

 

 

Today, the 49-year-old Jones, technically speaking, is still an active fighter. He also has two promotional companies and gyms, located in Pensacola and Las Vegas, trains several pro boxers and serves as a color commentator for HBO Boxing. He recently opened gyms in South Africa.

 

 

 

For the past two years, Jones has hosted the “Future Stars of Boxing Tournament” in Las Vegas, showcasing some of the best amateur boxers in the world.

 

 

 

“Hosting the tournament in Las Vegas gives me the opportunity to give back to amateur boxing,” Jones explained. “It’s a great experience for the boxers and it reminds them that who they may have or still look up to, are watching them as well.”

 

 

 

Roy Jones, Jr. with one of the many amateur boxers who participated in this year’s “Future Stars of Boxing” tournament in Las Vegas (photo courtesy of RJJ Boxing Promotions)

 

 

 

“When USA Boxing alumni discuss their favorite fighters,” said Chris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director, “Roy Jones is near the top of everyone’s list.  His spectacular talent, dedication to his craft, and infectious personality make him a no-brainer to headline this year’s Hall of Fame class.  He continues to give back to amateur boxing and support the next generation.  Roy deserves to be celebrated for all he has accomplished, and we look forward to honoring him in December.”

 

 

 

Created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — the Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.

 

 

 

The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events host by the Alumni Association, including the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.

 

 

 

To join the Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.

 

 

 

 

Quotes of Note from other World Champions

 

 

 

George Foreman: “(Jones) hits like a heavyweight and moved like a lightweight.”

 

 

 

Montell Griffin: “Floyd (Mayweather, Jr.) was no comparison as far as speed. Roy was much faster.”

 

 

 

Mike McCallum: “(Jones is) the greatest fighter of all time.”

 

 

 

 

If he ever hangs-up his gloves for good, Roy Jones, Jr. will be a first ballot inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. There may never be another boxer quite like RJJ.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, USABoxingAlumni

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

Russian Contenders Salamov, Idigov and Davtaev Score Impressive Victories in Grozny

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All three of Salita Promotions’ Russia-based contenders, light heavyweight Umar Salamov, super middleweight Aslambek “The Hulk” Idigov and heavyweight Apti Davtaev scored impressive victories in Russia today.

 

 

 

Fighting in the main event at the Grozny City Hotel in Grozny, and live in Russia on Match TV, IBF #11- and WBO #15-rated Umar Salamov moved to 22-1, 17 KOs with a two-round KO over Denis Liebau (23-3, 21 KOs) of Frankfurt Germany.

 

 

 

Fighting for the WBO International Light Heavyweight Championship, Salamov came out firing in round two, landing a perfect left hook to the body that dropped Liebau for the count. The official time was 2:15.

 

 

 

WBO #14-rated super middleweight Aslambek Idigov (14-0, 6 KOs) destroyed former African champion Daniel Wanyonyi (27-13-2, 22 KOs) of Kenya in two brutal rounds. Idigov dropped Wanyonyi three times with a series of brutal right hands. The fight was waved off at 2:32. Idigov is now the WBO Asia Pacific Super Middleweight Champion.

 

 

 

Heavyweight crusher Apti Davtaev (16-0-1, 15 KOs) took out the Ukraine’s Evgeny German Skobenko in six dominant rounds. A serious prospect in the big man’s division, Davtaev was way too powerful for the normally capable Skobenko, pushing him around until the fateful round, where a solid mix of unanswered shots brought an end at 2:40.

 

 

 

“All three fighters did their jobs well today,” said their co-promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “They are all future champions and they looked the part today against respectable opponents. I am proud of all them. The work they have been doing at Kronk Gym is really showing through in their dominant performances.”

 

 

 

About Salita Promotions

 

 

 

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League, MMAPRO

  GET TO KNOW MMA PRO LEAGUE’S TEAM NEW JERSEY

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Head Coach Dan Miller’s Team New Jersey Battles
Team Pennsylvania in MMA Pro League Inaugural Event
Saturday, September 15 From Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City & Streaming on FloCombat.com
 
Team New Jersey Talks Motivation, Fighting Style & More!

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 5, 2018) – As the inaugural fight night approaches for the newest entity in MMA, MMA Pro League, get to know the fighters for head coach Dan Miller’s Team New Jersey before they battle Team Pennsylvania Saturday, September 15 from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and streaming live on FloCombat.com.

 

 

 

Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” on Saturday, September 15, featuring Team New Jersey vs. Team Pennsylvania, are available at Ticketmaster.com.

 

 

 

Here is what Dan Miller’s Team New Jersey fighters had to say as they prepare to take on head coach Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania:

 

 

 

CLAUDIO LEDESMA

Weight Class: Flyweight

Hometown: West Orange, NJ

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight because I love the sport and I feel I was gifted the ability to do it competitively. So I can’t let it go to waste.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“My favorite fighter is actually a blend of Frankie Edgar and Marlon Moraes. I look up to both of them as fighters and try to put a little piece of each of them in my game.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I’m a jiu jitsu black belt. Jiu jitsu is what got my foot in the door but now I’m a complete fighter and don’t really favor any single style.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“I love New Jersey. I was born and bred here. MMA Pro League allows me to represent my state!”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

“It’s the diversity. Jersey is a melting pot of different cultures and backgrounds. I believe this state breeds the toughest guys around.”

 

 

 

TURPAL KHAMZAYEV

Weight Class: 130-pound Catchweight

Hometown: Clifton, NJ

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight because it’s in my blood. I was born to fight and that’s what I do best.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“Growing up as a kid I used to watch boxing, and some of the boxers I really enjoyed watching were Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and Prince Naseem Hamed. I also steal a little bit of everyone’s styles from different contact sports, because you can’t be a one-dimensional fighter in modern MMA.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“My fighting background is pretty much all aspects of contact sports. I’ve earned a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, I have multiple grappling titles, multiple kickboxing/Muay Thai titles and three amateur MMA titles in two different promotions and in two different weight classes.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“MMA Pro League is the right fit for me because they are doing something new. It’s something that has not been done before, having two states compete against each other to see who wins. It is also a little different from other promotions because in other promotions you just go and fight for yourself, but in MMA Pro League you have a whole state behind you, and all the pressure is on you because you don’t want to let your team down.”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

“My favorite thing about New Jersey is that we always bring the heat in any competition against anyone.”

 

 

 

KEVIN SEARS

Weight Class: Heavyweight

Hometown: Newark, NJ

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

There’s a lot of different reasons why I fight. The first reason was because I was a fan. I love the sport and entertainment, but the real reason why I fight is for my daughter and to show her you can chase your dreams and be great at something you’re passionate about.

 

 

 

I visited the UFC Expo at the first one they had in Las Vegas. It was a totally life-changing experience. I was just a fan of UFC and MMA, but when I went down there I knew that I was destined to be a fighter, gladiator and a badass.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“My favorite fighter more recently was Kimbo Slice, may he rest in peace. I did have a favorite fighter growing up, and yes, it was the one and only Georges St-Pierre. If it wasn’t ‘GSP’ then it was Tito Ortiz, just some all-around badass dudes.

 

 

 

Nowadays I really don’t follow fighting, but if I had to say my favorite active fighter fighting now, it’s definitely Jose Aldo. I’m an old school UFC guy from back in the day. Now I just see competition.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“My fighting style is just brawl and cause damage in there. I really don’t have a style. I go in there and try to get the job done even if it’s sloppy. You could say I’m emulating Kimbo combined with a wrestler.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“MMA Pro League is for me because it’s my next challenge and I can’t wait.”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

My favorite thing about New Jersey is my Aunt Denise, my grandma and my cousin Jazz. They lived in Newark most of their lives. Those are my people.”

 

 

 

MARK KOLKER

Weight Class: Welterweight

Hometown: Mobile, AL

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I like to fight because fighting is one of the few things in life I’m truly passionate about and gives me purpose. Also fighting provides the opportunity for a better life.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“I don’t really emulate any one fighter. I try to pick up as much as I can from different fighters and coaches and mix them into my game.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I am a mixed martial artist and have been fighting as an amateur and professional for four years now.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“I am excited to fight for MMA Pro League because it is a well-run organization, and the opportunity to fight on their first show in Atlantic City seems like a great opportunity.”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

“I am not from New Jersey although I train there. I am representing Mobile, Alabama. My favorite thing about Mobile is that on the coast we are a family, and we are eager to show the talent we have on the Gulf Coast.”

 

 

 

SHAN CELIA

Weight Class: Featherweight

Hometown: Wayne, NJ

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight for many reasons. I have a lot of passion for this sport and am looking to become the best.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“My favorite fighter other than myself would have to be Muhammad Ali because of the impact he had around the world. I wish to do the same one day, in my own way. I watch many fighters and am always studying combat, taking techniques from all the greats in all combat sports.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I started in full on MMA, not one specific background.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“MMA Pro League is the right fit for me because they are professionals and take it seriously just like me.”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

“My favorite thing about New Jersey is most people from here are blue collar, hard-working people, and it pushes me to chase my dreams.”

 

 

 

FRANCISCO MUNIZ

Weight Class: 140-pound Catchweight

Hometown: Caguas, Puerto Rico

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

“Because I have a huge chip on my shoulder.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“I don’t have a favorite fighter, I just try to be me.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“Brazilian jiu jitsu is my style.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“Because they’re giving me a shot that I’m worthy of.”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

“It’s close to so many great things, like New York.”

 

 

 

GABRIEL RUIZ

Weight Class: Bantamweight

Hometown: Woodland Park, NJ

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight because I love to compete and the rush of going out there to the cage and being the best man of the night.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“My favorite fighter is Rich Franklin. I kind of got my style from him. I just go out and fight and put my heart out there.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I have an all-around background, but I love to stand up. I feel comfortable anywhere though.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“MMA Pro League is the right fit for me because we are taken care of and it has a lot of benefits that people are going to see both immediately and over time.”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

“My favorite thing in New Jersey is the people. We’re Jersey strong. Also, the food is great here.”

 

 

 

MIKE PAGANO

Weight Class: Featherweight

Hometown: Stanhope, NJ

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

“I fight because when I was growing up I was picked on and bullied a lot. I had to learn how to stand up for myself. Also, later on in my youth I had to take care of my father who was very sick with brain cancer, which took his life in 2008.

 

 

 

Seeing my father go through his daily battles and frustrations made me realize I could overcome anything in life. My father was and will always be my hero. He was one of the toughest, stubbornest, hardest workers I had the pleasure of knowing and had the pleasure of calling my dad. Each time I step into that cage I know he`s with me.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“My favorite fighter, or fighters if I could merge them together, would have to be Georges St-Pierre, Dominick Cruz, Mike Tyson and Buakaw Banchamek. As far as emulating their styles, each has something I like within their fighting styles or fighter I.Q., but for me I like to be my own fighter. I never want to be a paper cut out version of someone else. That`s the beautiful thing about MMA, all these different styles can mesh into one and you can create your style how you want.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“I`m a wrestler, boxer and black belt in jiu jitsu under Sean “Shorty Rock” Santella.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“I feel MMA Pro League is the right fit for me because they are starting their own chapter in MMA and I love being a part of it! I like the concept as far as team versus team and the way you can collect points for your team by either KO/TKO, Submission, or Decision. It definitely makes a fighter want to push harder for that big win!”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

“The Pizza!”

 

 

 

JUSTIN OSBORN

Weight Class: Lightweight

Hometown: Mobile, AL

 

 

 

Why do you fight?

“It’s what I love to do. This is what comes naturally to me. I was born to fight, plain and simple.”

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite fighter or someone you try to emulate?

“I’m trying to emulate the best Justin Osborn possible.”

 

 

 

What is your fighting background and style?

“Wrestling is my style.”

 

 

 

Why is MMA Pro League the right fit for you?

“They are giving me a cage to fight in and an opponent to fight. I’m here to fight my heart out and they are giving me a platform to do so.”

 

 

 

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey?

“I’ve never been on the East Coast before, so I’m looking forward to experiencing it.”

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

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.