All posts by FNU47

boxing, Granite Chin

Galloway’s Tyrone Luckey is a throwback fighter, boxing career resurrected

October 30, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

Tyrone Luckey.jpg — **QUINCY, Mass. (October 27, 2022)** – In short two years, after signing a contract with Granite Chin Promotions, veteran New Jersey boxer Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey has gone from journeyman to legitimate opponent with a promising upside.

“Guys like Tyrone have a special spot for me,” Granite Chin Promotions president Chris Traietti commented. “I’ve helped to build up his record, developed trust between us, and we’ll see where we go from here. He’s a big Dallas Cowboy fan and he really wanted to fight in AT & T Arena. He dreamed of fighting there and I got him on the Spence-Garcia card, and he got the biggest purse of his life.”

“He is a fighter’s fighter. Any promoter would be very happy to have 25 like him in their stable. His goal now is to make as much as he can over the next few years and get out with his health. He continues to trust me. He wants to be part of the team and I just signed him to a new 3-year deal. Tyrone has had a bit of a rebirth in his career.”

The former New Jersey Golden Gloves Champion had a 9-12-4 pro record, when he joined the Granite Chin stable, and since then Luckey has won six of nine fights, capturing the ABF USA Mid-American super lightweight title along the way.

“I had no choice but to get better,” Lucky spoke about his resurgence the past two years. “It first changed when I started going to Gladiator’s Gym for help with trainer Shawn Darling. My career in boxing changed since the pandemic started.

The 36-year-old Luckey (15-15-4, 11 KOs), fighting out of Galloway (NJ), is a throwback fighter back to the days boxers only asked when and where they were fighting, no pickin’ and choosin’ soft touches. Evidence of his admirable attitude is the fact he’s fought in six different weight classes, from super featherweight to super welterweight, during his 11-year-pro career.

“I’m not afraid of anyone,” Luckey said. “I fight guys others avoid, even some that world champions wouldn’t fight. I’m able to fight in different weight classes because I know my body and how to properly get done in weight. Right now, I feel comfortable at 140 pounds, and I feel like I have a ton of power at 130 or 135 pounds. I’m naturally small, but psychologically, I’m always the bigger fighter no matter what position I find myself in.”

Luckey’s stock jumped in his last two fights, both against previously unbeaten Eduardo Aguilar, who was knocked out, respectively, in the first round and he couldn’t continue past the sixth round in their most recent fight, in which Luckey dropped Aguilar seven times.

A married man who is an endoscopy technician, Luckey has been saving his boxing purses to eventually buy a house.

“I plan to box until I’m 39, maximum of 40,” Luckey remarked. “I’ll call it quits and maybe become a trainer or pro bowler. I’m trying to get into a sanctioned league (he averages 215 and rolled a perfect 300 game in 2017).”

Luckey and Traietti, also a pro boxer, have a mutually beneficial relationship today. “Our relationship has always been great,” Tyrone confirmed. “I had a fight fallout and the matchmaker set me up with Chris, who was working a fight in Minnesota. He said that after the fight we could talk. He’s a good dude, great promoter. I’m glad our paths crossed because he’s put me in a new situation. I put my faith in him. It’s always love when we talk.”

“We hit it off right away,” Traietti concluded. “He’s easy to work with and will fight anybody. To his credit, he signed with me when it wasn’t really popular, not until 8 to 10 months later. Granite Chin has blown up and my some of my fighters have been performing on some of the biggest cards in boxing.”

Do you feel lucky? Tyrone Luckey certainly does and he’s finally cashing in on all his hard work and perseverance, fighting under the Granite Chin banner.

**INFORMATION:**

Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin

boxing

2021 Highs & Lows for Unbeaten super lightweight “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams

October 30, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

Williams and cichon.jpg — (L-R) – Mykquan Williams & Paul Cichon

HARTFORD (October 27, 2021) – Unbeaten super lightweight prospect **“Marvelous” Mykquan Williams** (16-0-1, 7 KOs) has been on a long, strange trip in 2021, starting with his career-defining victory to date last January, unfortunately, followed by a car accident resulting in a wrist injury, leading to the entrepreneurial launch of his “Marvelous” merchandise and products, and last Thursday he became a father for the first time.

“It’s been very frustrating,” Williams said about his injury. “This is what I do; I’m a fighter. At times it has been hard, and I’ve been frustrated the entire time. I’m eager to fight again, but I need to be patient. When the time is right and I’m back 100-percent, I’ll be back in the ring, hopefully, early next year. Now, I have to build-up my wrist, strength-wise.”

Williams was in a car accident this past March 5^th, in which he suffered a dislocated right wrist, popped into place that evening in the trauma unit. The next morning, Williams underwent surgery to insert four pins, which left him in a splint for 11 weeks, until the pins were removed May 15^th. Therapy and exercises were all he could do, no boxing at all, until he returned to training, and he threw his first punch only three weeks ago.

When a boxer suffers a serious injury to his hands like Williams, it often leaves questions about his or her boxing future. No different for “Marvelous” Mykquan, as he admits.

“Personally,” Williams explained, “I worry about coming back close to where I was, but I keep faith and keep working. People have been very supportive. Sometimes I think about not being able to box again, but I try not to think about that, but that is positioned in my mind.”

“We’re in no rush,” Williams’ head trainer Paul Cichon noted. “We’re doing exactly what his doctors are saying. I believe he’ll be back stronger, and more focused than ever now that he has a son to consider. I think he’ll be back strong in 2022.”

Williams has taken advantage of his downtime to launch his “Marvelous Chili,” as well as a “Marvelous” clothing line and gear, and he’s also looking into purchasing property.

His is life was dramatically altered this past Thursday, when his girlfriend, Zuleyma, delivered his son, Attikus Williams, who weighed in at, as a ring announcer would say, a fit and ready 9-pounds.

Mykquan & Attikus Williams

As he prepares for his comeback, Williams and Cichon will promote an amateur show November 20^th at a venue to be determined.
“We’re hosting the show to help kids at our gym, Manchester ROCS (in CT),” the DiBella Entertainment promoted Williams remarked. “We want to do a couple a year.”

The 23-year-old Williams has already overcome the murder of his father when Mykquan was only one, in addition to having his family house burned to the ground 10 years later. A dislocated wrist has no chance of making him less than “Marvelous.”

**INFORMATION:**
Facebook: /MykquanWilliams
Twitter: @MarvelousMyke
Instagram: @M.MKW_

Baby 3.jpg — (L-R) – Mykquan Williams & Paul Cichon

HARTFORD (October 27, 2021) – Unbeaten super lightweight prospect **“Marvelous” Mykquan Williams** (16-0-1, 7 KOs) has been on a long, strange trip in 2021, starting with his career-defining victory to date last January, unfortunately, followed by a car accident resulting in a wrist injury, leading to the entrepreneurial launch of his “Marvelous” merchandise and products, and last Thursday he became a father for the first time.

“It’s been very frustrating,” Williams said about his injury. “This is what I do; I’m a fighter. At times it has been hard, and I’ve been frustrated the entire time. I’m eager to fight again, but I need to be patient. When the time is right and I’m back 100-percent, I’ll be back in the ring, hopefully, early next year. Now, I have to build-up my wrist, strength-wise.”

Williams was in a car accident this past March 5^th, in which he suffered a dislocated right wrist, popped into place that evening in the trauma unit. The next morning, Williams underwent surgery to insert four pins, which left him in a splint for 11 weeks, until the pins were removed May 15^th. Therapy and exercises were all he could do, no boxing at all, until he returned to training, and he threw his first punch only three weeks ago.

When a boxer suffers a serious injury to his hands like Williams, it often leaves questions about his or her boxing future. No different for “Marvelous” Mykquan, as he admits.

“Personally,” Williams explained, “I worry about coming back close to where I was, but I keep faith and keep working. People have been very supportive. Sometimes I think about not being able to box again, but I try not to think about that, but that is positioned in my mind.”

“We’re in no rush,” Williams’ head trainer Paul Cichon noted. “We’re doing exactly what his doctors are saying. I believe he’ll be back stronger, and more focused than ever now that he has a son to consider. I think he’ll be back strong in 2022.”

Williams has taken advantage of his downtime to launch his “Marvelous Chili,” as well as a “Marvelous” clothing line and gear, and he’s also looking into purchasing property.

His is life was dramatically altered this past Thursday, when his girlfriend, Zuleyma, delivered his son, Attikus Williams, who weighed in at, as a ring announcer would say, a fit and ready 9-pounds.

Mykquan & Attikus Williams

As he prepares for his comeback, Williams and Cichon will promote an amateur show November 20^th at a venue to be determined.
“We’re hosting the show to help kids at our gym, Manchester ROCS (in CT),” the DiBella Entertainment promoted Williams remarked. “We want to do a couple a year.”

The 23-year-old Williams has already overcome the murder of his father when Mykquan was only one, in addition to having his family house burned to the ground 10 years later. A dislocated wrist has no chance of making him less than “Marvelous.”

**INFORMATION:**
Facebook: /MykquanWilliams
Twitter: @MarvelousMyke
Instagram: @M.MKW_

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DAVID BENAVÍDEZ AND JOSÉ BENAVIDEZ TRAINING CAMP QUOTES AND PHOTOS

October 30, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Unbeaten Two-Time World Champion David Benavídez and Longtime Contender José Benavídez Preview Respective Showdowns Taking Place Saturday, November 13 Live on SHOWTIME^® from** **Footprint Center in Phoenix in a Premier Boxing Champions Event**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME**

**NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CALIF.** (October 26, 2021) – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez and his older brother, longtime contender **José Benavídez**, previewed their respective showdowns before they enter in the ring in their hometown of Phoenix, Ariz. on Saturday, November 13 live on SHOWTIME in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center.

David will battle former champion **José Uzcátegui** in a super middleweight title eliminator bout that headlines the event, while José faces Argentina’s **Francisco Emanuel Torres** in the 10-round co-main event. The Benavídez brothers have their sights set on impressing their hometown fans in long-awaited homecoming bouts November 13, which will mark their first time entering the ring in Phoenix since 2015.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the Benavídez brothers, plus their father and trainer Jose Benavídez Sr., had to say from training camp in North Hollywood, California:

**DAVID BENAVÍDEZ**

“Everything has been amazing in camp. We’re sparring 12-13 rounds and running six or seven miles a day. I’ve worked very hard and I can’t wait to put on a show November 13.

“Uzcátegui is a tough competitor and he was a former world champion, so I have to give him that respect. There are big fights on the horizon for me, so I have to prepare accordingly for Uzcátegui.

“I feel like I’m the better fighter. I have the better skills, more power, more speed and I’m hungrier too. It’s going to be a great night for my team. I feel like I’m going to go in there and get the knockout victory.

“A lot of people in Phoenix are excited for this one. I’m excited to go back. The timing is perfect. For me, this is the biggest fight of my career. I’m ready for anything that comes my way November 13.

“We’re just focused on Uzcátegui, but of course there are bigger fights for me in the future. If I win this fight, I’m in the number one spot for whoever wins between Canelo Alvarez and Caleb Plant.

“Facing Canelo would be a huge fight in the super middleweight division, but I have to go out there on November 13 and get this victory first.

“Right now, with the level I’m at, the fighters that I’m seeking to fight are champions and former champions. Whether it’s Canelo, Plant or Jermall Charlo, I feel like we’re all going to end up facing each other at some point.

“Canelo vs. Plant is a great fight for the division. It’s a fight where both guys have a lot to prove. Those kinds of fights tend to bring the best out of everybody. There’s a lot of pressure and a lot of glory on the line, so I feel like they’re going to be the best they’ve ever been. I’m going to be ready for the winner next.

“I’ve been a pro for eight years already. I just want the biggest fights out there. This is the level I’ve been working to get to for a long time, and we’re finally here at this moment. I want to fight the best of the best and prove myself. I want to show that I’m the best super middleweight in the world.

“Uzcátegui is strong and he has a will to win, but I just believe that I have the better skill set. These are the types of fighters that I need to test myself against. It’s definitely going to be a war, but I’m going to come out on top.”

**JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ**

“It feels great to be on this card with my brother, and to be making my comeback in my hometown. There’s going to be a lot of support for me. It’s a great feeling and I’m looking forward to giving my fans a great outcome.

“I had to take a break, but now I have a different kind of mindset. I just want to keep fighting, training and staying ready. I want to get to the top of the super welterweight division.

“The delay has just given me more time to train, more time to get stronger and more time to get ready. I’ve just been making the most of it.

“I’m going to be an animal on fight night. I’m coming for everything. I’m hungry. I’ve been out of the ring for years, so I need to make a statement. That’s what I’m looking to do November 13.

“We have a great team here. We all came from nothing and we all started this journey at the same time. We learned day by day and that’s what makes our bond strong. Without my team, I wouldn’t be boxing.

“I have a lot of friends, family and fans who are coming out for my return. That’s really what’s motivating me. I’m happy that people still want to see me in the ring.

“I don’t know too much about my opponent, and I honestly don’t care, because I’m taking him down. No matter who they put in front of me, good luck to them.

“After my fight, which I’m going to end early, I’m going to be ready to walk out with my brother and support him for his fight.

“I’ve been spending a lot of time with my wife and my two daughters during this time off because there were so many things I wasn’t able to be around for earlier in my career. It’s been amazing but I’m excited to be back. I still have a lot to prove.”

**JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ SR., David and José’s Father and Trainer**

“David is looking very strong right now. With every fight he gets stronger and stronger and matures more and more. He’s just getting his man strength, so I think everyone is going to see something spectacular November 13.

“Words can’t even describe how it feels to be coming back to Phoenix training my two sons for this big show. It’s something I’ve only dreamed of. Now it’s happening, and we’re super excited.

“I always have to continue adjusting and growing as a trainer. I have to understand that these are grown men now. I had to stop thinking of them as my little kids. I’m always trying to learn more so that I can support their careers as best I can.

“I’m super proud of Jose for getting to this point after his injury. Everything he does now is just extra, it’s up to him to stay focused and work hard. He’s very strong both physically and mentally and that’s why I never gave up on him.

“We’ve been dedicating ourselves and sacrificing every day so that we can give our people in Phoenix a really good show. They’re going to get an exciting night and I can’t wait.”

# # #

boxing, Reyes Boxing

Reyes Boxing’s “Down & Dirty” pro boxing series to debut in Massachusetts This Friday night streaming live on PPV

October 26, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

Michael Reyes.jpg — SALEM, Mass. (October 25, 2021) — This past August in Portland, Maine, Reyes Boxing launched “Down & Dirty,” the only ongoing professional boxing series in New England, and it will make its Massachusetts debut this Friday night (Oct. 29) at Melrose Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts.

The second installment of “Down & Dirty,” presented by Reyes Boxing, will be headlined this Friday evening by Colombian Welterweight Champion Jeovanis “Meque” Barraza (22-1, 15 KOs) making his United States debut against Jorge “Tomatito” Martin Garcia (13-7-1, 6 KOs) in the 8-round main event between for the vacant ABF Continental Americas Super Welterweight Championship.

All the action will be streamed live and exclusively on pay-per-view at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21, starting at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT, for $29.95.

Reyes was a standout amateur boxer in Massachusetts, finishing with a 60-4 record, when he gave up boxing and enrolled in Norwich University, where he graduated in 2001 majoring in business and economics. He then spent six years as a U.S. Marine in military intelligence. After his military discharge, Reyes became a certified fitness and personal trainer, opening Reyes Boxing Club 2 ½ years ago in Salem, Massachusetts.

“I started managing some fighters I was training,” Reyes explained, “but realized about 1 ½ years ago that I needed to be a promoter to put fighters I trained on cards. ‘Down & Dirty’ is boxing, at least to me, and I wanted to let people know where we are at and what we’re doing.
“I feel New England has a big talent pool, but over the years it has dwindled. But it’s still here! We have boxers here who bring boxing back to where it was when people knew who New England fighters were. Our series is centered around young, talented fighters on the way up. We want to help them step up to the next level by giving them this platform. We’re streaming out shows live and working on a television partner.”
Reyes Boxing’s plan for 2022 is to promote shows in Maine, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, and Massachusetts.

“We’ve signed some local prospects and some veterans as well,” Reyes added. “I grew up watching Tuesday Night Fights and my dream is for this series to develop over the next few years into a weekly series on a major network.”

Boston lightweight prospect Jonathan Depina (5-1, 3 KOs) faces Gonzalo Carlos Deller (9-14, 7 KOs) in the 6-round co-featured event for the vacant ABF Mid-Atlantic Lightweight Championship.

ABF Atlantic Middleweight Champion Anthony “Big Daddy” Hines, fighting out of nearby Dorchester (a Boston district) makes his first defense versus challenger Fidel Montero Muñoz, a former Colombian Light Heavyweight Champion, in an 8-round bout.

Also fighting on the undercard, all in 4-rounders, is Lynn (MA) heavyweight Dennis Ventura (4-0, 3 KOs) vs, Vercell Webster (1-4-1, 1 KO), of Mississippi, New York super lightweight Brandon Idrogo (4-1, 4 KOs) vs. Virginian Stacey Anderson (0-7), undefeated New London (CT) lightweight prospect Alejandro “El Abusador” Paolino (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Italian-born, Argentina resident Christian “El Nija” Danilo Guido (8-20, 6 KOs), Providence (RI) heavyweight Sean Bey (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Utah’s pro-debuting Brandon Grundy, and Dracut (MA) lightweight Gabriel Morales )(2-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA.

Card is subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $75.00 (General Admission), $90.00 (Reserved), $125.00 (Ringside) and $250.00 VIP (dedicated server on stage) and available for purchase online at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21
or directly from any of the participating boxers on this show. Limited tickets will be available at the door while they last.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

Complete Fight Night Results, Quotes & Photos For BELLATOR MMA 269: Fedor vs. Johnson

October 26, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

A picture containing person, sport

Description automatically generated — **Complete Event Photos Here – Please Credit: Lucas Noonan / BELLATOR MMA**

**BELLATOR 269 Post-Fight Interviews**

*BELLATOR MMA 269: FEDOR VS. JOHNSON* MAIN CARD RESULTS AND QUOTES:

**Fedor Emelianenko** (40-6, 1 NC) def. No. 2 **Tim Johnson** (15-8) via KO at 1:46 of round one

**Fedor Emelianenko:**
*“I feel very great. I feel good. Two years passed. I’m happy that everything worked out the way we were thinking.*

*“I’m very happy for the fact that we made the audience happy and we delivered such great joy to our fans. To those who follow our career and Bellator events.*

“Its much easier for me to perform in America. I don’t have such huge attention, or maybe I do get the attention, but all the events are strictly planned. Here at home all our camp and our preparation for the fight took place under the supervision of media, journalists and so forth and so on.

“Its difficult to say, I think this is one of the most important wins of my career taking into consideration the location, the country (Russia), the age. Taking into consideration the force of Tim Johnson, who is a strong opponent.

*“Thank god I’m still in sports and I’m not losing my speed.*

*“Its difficult to answer the ‘what if’ questions. I would like to say that at this moment I’m not planning on finishing my career. I will talk to Scott Coker and my family.”*

No. 8 **Said Sowma** (8-2) def. **Vitaly Minakov** (22-2) via TKO at 3:08 of round three

**Said Sowma:**
“I couldn’t hit the guy while he was fixing his finger when it was broken. I told the ref that his finger was messed up when he was telling us to keep fighting. I want to fighting him like a true martial artist, not like that.

“I haven’t thought about who’s next, I’m just excited about this one right now. He was a lot heavier than I was, but it wasn’t a fight that I took on short notice. I just wanted a step up in opponents. I believe that if you fight bums your whole life, then you will be a bum. I hope I laid a path for everyone at home that you can achieve anything you set your mind to no matter where you’re from.

*“Minakov didn’t finish me in one minute like he usually does with his opponents so I’m pretty happy, but it was definitely a bit of a bittersweet win for me.”*

No. 6 **Usman Nurmagomedov** (14-0) def. **Patrik Pietila** (11-9) via submission (RNC) at 4:06 of round one

**Usman Nurmagomedov:**
*“I’m feeling good. I want to thank God for this victory. It was amazing fighting here in Russia. I am so happy right now.*

*“I certainly planned on taking this fight to the ground. I was trying to catch him so that I could take it to the ground, where I knew I had an advantage.*

“I want to take on a top fighter next. A Top-10 or Top-15 fighter, it doesn’t really matter to me, but I want a top fighter. I will need about a week of rest and then I will be back and ready to go.

“I have not yet talked to Scott Coker about anything in relation to title shots. I don’t know who will win the world title fight between Patricky Pitbull and Peter Queally, but I’m going to take that belt and bring it back home with me.”

**Anatoly Tokov** (30-2) def. **Sharaf Davlatmurodov** (18-4-1) via split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

**Anatoly Tokov:**
“I felt a little bit rusty in this fight because of the two-year absence. It felt like my reach was a bit off. It was not an easy fight. I was glad that it went three rounds because it allowed me to breath and it allowed me to take control of the situation.”
“Nothing was surprising about this fight because we used to train together and I know his strengths and I know that he’s a really serious fighter. It was a true challenge for me, but nothing was surprising about this one. I also wasn’t nervous at all and in fact I knew that I took care of him in each round.”

*BELLATOR MMA 269: FEDOR VS. JOHNSON* PRELIMINARY CARD RESULTS:

**Kirill Sidelnikov** (13-6) def. **Rab Truesdale** (10-8-1) via TKO at 2:01 of round one
**Katarzyna Sadura** (5-4) def. Darina Mazdyuk (4-2) via TKO at 3:17 of round two
**Irina Alekseeva** (4-1) def. **Stephanie Page** (5-3) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
**Nikita Mikhailov** (8-1) def. Brian Moore (14-8) via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
**Alexey Shurkevich** (13-4) def. Grachik Bozinyan (11-5) via KO at 2:25 of round one
**Aiden Lee** (10-5) def. **Alexander Osetrov** (8-3-1) via submission (RNC) at 3:41 of round one

For more information on upcoming BELLATOR MMA events, visit BELLATOR.com.

** Card subject to change **

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

NEF RETURNS TO MAINE WITH STACKED FIGHT CARD FEATURING FOUR TITLE FIGHTS

October 26, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

NEF RETURNS TO MAINE WITH STACKED FIGHT CARD FEATURING FOUR TITLE FIGHTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (October 22, 2021) – When the bell rings at 7 pm EST to start the show on Friday, November 5, it will be the first time New England Fights (NEF) has presented a mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event in its home state of Maine in 21 months. Shortly after the venerable fight promotion held “NEF 42” at Merrill Auditorium in Portland on February 8, 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic gripped the state and the nation. The resulting shutdown forced the indefinite postponement of “NEF 43” which was scheduled to take place in Orono, Maine later that spring. With the state not fully opening for combat sports events until well into 2021, NEF decided to turn to neighboring New Hampshire to hold “NEF 44” last summer. “NEF 45: Uprising” on November 5 will see the fight promotion make its long-awaited return to action in Maine, as well as close out its first decade of business. The event will originate from Aura in Portland.

Earlier today, NEF announced the full fight card for “NEF 45.” It is scheduled to feature a total of 21 bouts with four championships to be decided.

In the main event of the evening, Josh “Hook On” Harvey (7-1-1) will defend the NEF Professional Featherweight Title against the challenge of Aguilando Brandao (9-8). Harvey has held the championship since February 2019. Brandao is a tough veteran with more than 15 years of cage experience.

The co-main event will see Mark “Pockets” Gardner (1-2)take on Nick Alley (7-4) in a professional welterweight contest. Both competitors are veterans of global promotion Bellator’s cage. Both will be looking to bounce back from losses in their respective previous bouts.

Zac “Rocky” Richard (0-0) will make his professional debut against Carl Langston (0-5) after a successful amateur career that saw Richard capture the NEF 155-pound title. Langston seeks his first win as a professional fighter.

In other pro bouts, Matt “Ken Doll” Denning (5-10) meets former University of Southern Maine wrestling standout Jon Deupree (0-0) in Deupree’s pro debut, while former NEF Professional Middleweight Champion CJ Ewer (3-3) battles Shaun Ray (2-1) in the welterweight division.

The amateur portion of the fight card will be headlined by three title fights: Caleb Austin (5-0) faces Tyler Smythe (2-1) for the vacant flyweight belt; Felipe Günter (3-0) is scheduled to square off with Teddy Politis (2-0) for the vacant bantamweight championship; and Nathaniel Grimard (4-0) will defend his newly-won featherweight strap against Billy Wilson (6-1).

The sole women’s fight of the evening will also take place on the amateur card as BJ Garceau (1-1) meets the debuting Hayley Martin (0-0) in a strawweight bout. Garceau last appeared in the NEF cage three years earlier at “NEF 36.”

“It feels like forever since we had a fight in Maine—and what a card to come back with,” said NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “So many prospects in this lineup, so many undefeated fighters putting their perfect records on the line, so much at stake for so many impressive athletes putting themselves to the test on November 5th. Four title fights. For headliner Josh Harvey, his next fight could be the last chance to see him compete before he gets the call to the UFC —he’s that close. Leading up to the main event we have several undefeated amateur athletes that are on the cusp of turning pro and trying to follow in Harvey’s footsteps. AURA is the place to be November 5th!”

The full “NEF 45” fight card (subject to change):

PROFESSIONAL MMA

145 POUND TITLE: Josh Harvey (c) vs. Aguilando Brandao

170 POUNDS: Nick Alley vs. Mark Gardner

140 POUNDS: Carl Langston vs. Zac Richard

170 POUNDS: Jon Deupree vs. Matt Denning

160 POUNDS: Jay Ellis vs. Rodrigo Almeida

170 POUNDS: CJ Ewer vs. Shaun Ray

AMATEUR MMA

125 POUND TITLE: Caleb Austin vs. Tyler Smythe

145 POUND TITLE: Billy Wilson vs. Nathaniel Grimard (c)

135 POUND TITLE: Felipe Günter vs. Teddy Politis

115 POUNDS: BJ Garceau vs. Hayley Martin

200 POUNDS: David McCarthy vs. Danny Dray

170 POUNDS: Brian Cosco vs. Tyler Kingsbury

265 POUNDS: Tucker Olinsky vs. George Pissimissis

170 POUNDS: Curtis Ouellette vs. Derek Lambert

185 POUNDS: Bryant Wade vs. Brandon Oldenberg

185 POUNDS: Brett Martin vs. Justin Philbrook

155 POUNDS: Jonas Ryerson vs. RJ Janeczek

165 POUNDS: Austin Hamilton vs. David Hart

115 POUNDS: Julian Menjivar vs. Matt Miles

155 POUNDS: Jacob Routon vs. Emmett Huber

135 POUNDS: Tyler Parent vs. Randall Hathorn

“NEF 45: Uprising” takes place on Friday, November 5, 2021, at Aura in Portland, Maine. Doors open at 6 pm with first fight at 7 pm. Tickets are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.com. The event will also be live streamed on pay-per-view for the price of $29.99 at www.CombatSportsNow.com.

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMERO LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

October 26, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

***“I’m going to show him that he’s a chump on December 5. I’m not here to talk, I’m here to fight,” – Davis***

***“Everyone’s going to see December 5, I’m going to knock Gervonta the f*** out!” – Romero***

Five-Time World Champion Davis To Defend WBA Lightweight Title Against Unbeaten Contender Romero Sunday, December 5 on SHOWTIME PPV^®From STAPLES Center in Los Angeles Headlining a Premier Boxing Champions Event

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME^®**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/**
**Mayweather Promotions**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions**

**LOS ANGELES** (October 21, 2021) – Five-time world champion **Gervonta “Tank” Davis** and hard-hitting, unbeaten lightweight contender **Rolando “Rolly” Romero** went face-to-face Thursday at a press conference to preview their showdown for Davis’ WBA Lightweight Championship headlining live on SHOWTIME PPV Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Davis’ third-straight pay-per-view headlining attraction will see him battle his outspoken lightweight foe Romero, as the 26-year-old power-punchers put their unbeaten records on the line. The event will mark Davis’ return to Southern California after he knocked out Hugo Ruiz in the first round in front of a sold-out crowd in February 2019.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from City View Terrace at STAPLES Center:

**GERVONTA DAVIS**

“I’m thankful to be here to give the fans another great fight. This is what we do. ‘Rolly’ is just here to talk. He’s trying to talk his way into winning, but he’s scared. I’m coming to fight.

“They only talk about his power, but this is boxing. His skills are not up to par with mine. He can’t even talk about power, because everyone knows I’m bringing it. You can shoot bullets, but how are you going to defend yourself when the bullets are shot back?

“He’s been talking for a long time. He’s trying to sell a fight, but I’m going to show him that he’s a chump on December 5. I’m not here to talk, I’m here to fight. I don’t take this personally. To me, this isn’t beef, this is business.

“I was on a mission when I fought Jose Pedraza for the title. I didn’t do the trash talking. I went in there and proved that I’m a top guy. This guy is just here to talk. I’m going to do the talking in the ring on December 5.

“His trainer isn’t working on anything but power. They aren’t working on any skills. He hasn’t fought anybody like me and he’s going to see the difference.

“I’ve never once turned down any fight. I’m not scared of anybody. I’m going to fight everybody. I’ll fight a heavyweight. This is nothing to me. I’ve survived a lot of stuff.

“He’s supposed to come here and sell the fight. I’m supposed to win. I’d rather punish him for 12 rounds than knock him out quick. Part of me wants to humble him, but the most important thing to do is just go out there and get the job done.

“This fight is for the fans. The fans are winning December 5. Make sure you come out and support. I’m thankful to be in this position. It’s all about my team and those people who have put me in a great position.”

**ROLANDO ROMERO**

“Everyone’s going to see December 5, I’m going to knock Gervonta the f*** out. I hope you hear that.

“I’ve been calling ‘Tank’ out since 2017. We were supposed to spar in 2018 and he didn’t show up to the gym. He did that twice because he knew he was getting beat. December 5, you’re getting knocked out.

“This is just who I am. This is how I was born. I came into this sport at 17-years-old and I’ve made the most out of what I’ve done. Everybody come watch me knock him out on December 5.

“He’s got such a big head, it’s going to be hard to miss it. He gets touched up by every opponent he faces. Leo Santa Cruz was beating him up and Barrios was getting to him too.

“He wants to run out of the ring whenever he gets hit. It happens in sparring and in the amateurs. I was the one who had to force this fight, because I’ve seen for years that he’s a chump. He’s made a career out of beating up 126-pounders.

“He doesn’t know half the stuff that I’ve seen and been through. I’m here to knock him out in the ring. He’s arrogant and tries to act like he’s tough, but I’m knocking him out.

“Manny Pacquiao has an awkward style too, and look at everything he’s accomplished. Just because I fight differently, does that mean I don’t have skills? I have my own skills and they’ve gotten me this far.

“I’m not going into the ring angry, I’m just focused.”

**FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions**

“These are two great fighters. And when I say great, I mean that every time they go out there, they produce. ‘Tank’ is a young kid from Baltimore who had a dream. He’s been through a lot. He fought his way to the top. You have to commend him for that. No matter what anyone says, he earned his stripes.

“I believe ‘Tank’ is one of the best fighters in the world. ‘Rolly’ says he wants to fight the best. Come December 5, it’s going to be a hell of a fight.

“’Rolly’ is tough. He’ll fight anybody and that eagerness makes this an intriguing matchup. ‘Rolly’ just wants to prove he’s the best. He’s also a hell of a puncher. Every time we presented an opponent to him, he’s accepted every one of them.

“’Tank’ is doing record-breaking numbers. I always told him it would come in due time. I told him that the same way I sell out arenas, you’re going to do the same thing one day. He had patience and that’s what we’re doing.

“These guys are the future of boxing. I don’t see this fight going the distance. Two undefeated knockout artists. Two champions. December 5, I’ll see everyone there.”

**CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Co-Trainer**

“I hope you keep up this talking ‘Rolly.’ We’ll see who’s still going to be talking at the end of the night on December 5.

“Romero has an awkward style, but the beauty of having two coaches with ‘Tank,’ is that there’s nothing we aren’t ready for.

“Having Barry Hunter be a part of the camp has helped calm ‘Tank’ down in many ways. I think everyone will see the beauty of us working together in this fight.

“I don’t train ‘Tank’ for knockouts. I train him to go the distance. He can get you from round 1 to 12. So you better stay sharp.”

**BARRY HUNTER, Davis’ Co-Trainer**

“Everyone knows what we’re coming to do. I have mad respect for the other side. Bring your A-game, because we’re definitely going to bring ours.

“We’re born for stuff like this right here. Like everyone said, there’s no way this fight goes the distance.

“Everybody is working hard to be at their best, because we don’t want any excuses after it’s over with. I have faith in Gervonta. I know what he’s going to do.”

**BULLET CROMWELL, Romero’s Trainer**

“I know what everybody is saying about who the champ is coming into this, but the champ wasn’t born a champ, he had to rise too. Just like a young lion, ‘Rolly’ is ready to rise.

“I’m an L.A. guy. When we come back here, we’re fighting for a legacy. It’s not just a belt and money.

“I told ‘Rolly’ that Gervonta Davis is standing in the way of changing your family and your legacy. We got a job to do.

“I don’t care about pure boxing or any style. I took karate, street-fighting and boxing, and I put it all together. Combined with a puncher with ‘Rolly’s’ power, and with his grind and grit, it’s a perfect match.

“I have a lot of respect for ‘Tank’ and his team. He’s a great fighter, but Rolly is next up. He’s going to be the new WBA champion on December 5.”

**LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions**

“We’re excited to bring this huge event to Los Angeles at STAPLES Center on Sunday, December 5. This is a tremendous matchup and the fans should be excited. There’s a lot of buzz already and tickets are going fast.

“These fighters truly despise each other. It’s rare you see that in boxing. In 2019, me and Floyd were at the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Mikey Garcia and we were talking and all of a sudden Davis and Romero were ready to go at it at ringside. Floyd told them that they could do it in the ring, and now here we are.

“’Tank’ is without a doubt the most exciting fighter in the world. He’s also one of the biggest attractions and one of the best fighters in the world. ‘Rolly’ has let it be known that he’s been ‘trolling’ ‘Tank’ and I’m sure on December 5, ‘Tank’ will be doing whatever he can to shut ‘Rolly’ up.

“’Rolly’ is a very explosive fighter and anytime he steps into the ring, he’s looking to get his opponent out of there. He never lacks confidence and he’s confident that on December 5 he’s getting the job done.

“With two tremendous power punchers like this, there’s no way this fight doesn’t end in a knockout. Tune in December 5 and expect someone to get knocked out.”

**STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President of SHOWTIME Sports**

“For SHOWTIME Sports, 2021 has been one of the strongest years on record. We have delivered a total of 42 events, half of which ended in knockouts. On December 5, I expect this won’t go the distance, either, with these two hard hitters.

“Week after week, year after year, SHOWTIME continues to be the standard of this sport. No one in combat sports is putting on better, or more meaningful fights than us.

“As we enter Gervonta’s 11^th fight with SHOWTIME, he has never been down, and he has continued to shine. When other fighters are talking, ‘Tank’ is fighting and selling out arenas.

“’Rolly’ has also never been downed as a pro. He is a hard hitter and is one of the best talents in boxing, and he will be the first to tell you.”

# # #

***ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO***
Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion **Gervonta “Tank” Davis** defend his WBA Lightweight Championship against hard-hitting, unbeaten lightweight contender **Rolando “Rolly” Romero** live on SHOWTIME PPVon Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event. Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions, @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.

boxing

Paul Kroll Battles Mark Dawson in Battle of Undefeated Welterweights in an All-Philly Showdown on Saturday, November 27th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

October 26, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

Paul Kroll Battles Mark Dawson Jr. in a Battle of Undefeated Welterweights in an All-Philly Showdown on Saturday, November 27th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

Jesse Hart takes on Ernest Amuzu

Plus Undefeated Isaiah Johnson, Rashan Adams, Jabril Noble, Istvan Bermath, and Derek Starling

PHILADELPHIA (October 21, 2021)–A can’t miss welterweight showdown will headline RDR Promotions big night of boxing on Saturday, November 27th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Undefeated Philadelphia based welterweight’s Paul Kroll and Mark Dawson Jr. will fight in an eight-round bout in what will be one of the most anticipated fights featuring Philadelphia fighters in a while.

Kroll, who was a 2016 United States Olympic alternate, has a record of 8-0 with six knockouts. Kroll is a three-year professional, has a win over highly regarded Shinard Bunch (2-0) and is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision over Lucas Santamaria on October 3, 2020 in Los Angeles.

Dawson is 9-0-1 with three knockouts. The 24 year-old Dawson is coming off his career best victory when he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Ivan Pandzic (13-0-1) on July 24th at the 2300 Arena.

In the eight-round co-feature, former two-time world title challenger, Jesse Hart will be in action against veteran Ernest Amuzu in a super middleweight contest.

Hart of Philadelphia has a record of 27-3 with 21 knockouts. The 32 year-old has twice battled for the super middleweight championship of the world only to fall just short to Gilberto Ramirez in fights that were decided by just a couple of points.

After a stellar amateur career, Hart turned professional on June 9, 2012 with a 1st round stoppage of Manuel Eastman in Las Vegas. That led to Hart winning his first 22 fights (20 by knockout), with victories over Tyrell Hendrix (10-2-2), Samuel Clarkson (10-2), Roberto Acevedo (8-2), Mike Jimenez (17-0), Andrew Hernandez (16-4-1), Alan Campa (16-2). Hart also has victories over Demond Nicholson (18-2), Mike Gavronski (24-2-1) and Sullivan Barrera (22-2). Hart is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over Mike Guy on September 17th at the 2300 Arena.

Amuzu of Prichard, Alabama, has a record of 26-5 with 22 knockouts.
Amuzu, 38, is an 11-year veteran and is coming off a unanimous decision over Zacariah Kelly on June 27, 2020 in Plant City, Florida.

In an eight-round bout, Istvan Bernath (7-0, 5 KOs) of Miami is taking on an opponent to be named in heavyweight bout.

In Four Round Bouts:

Isaiah Johnson (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Anthony Young (0-3) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight contest.

Rashan Adams (1-0) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight fight.

Jabril Noble (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Joshua Zimmerman (0-5) of Baltimore in a super featherweight bout.

Derek Starling (3-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a heavyweight fight.

LaQuan Evans (4-2, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Victor Garcia Rivera (1-8) of Los Angeles in a super welterweight fight.

Tickets are $55, $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=386