All posts by FNU47

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Anthony Dirrell Battles Exciting Contender Marcos Hernández in Co-Main Event of Canelo vs. Plant SHOWTIME PPV

October 26, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Undefeated Former World Champion Rey Vargas Returns To Battle**
**Mexico’s Leonardo Báez in Super Bantamweight Showdown**

**Plus! Super Lightweight Contenders Elvis Rodríguez and**
**Juan Pablo Romero Square Off in Pay-Per-View Opener at**
**9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT**

**LAS VEGAS** (October 18, 2021) – Three high-stakes matchups featuring former world champions, top contenders and rising future champions have been added to the highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV event headlined by **Canelo Álvarez** and **Caleb “Sweethands” Plant** battling for the undisputed super middleweight championship on Saturday, November 6 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Two-time super middleweight world champion **Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell** will square off against exciting contender **“Madman” Marcos Hernández** in the 10-round co-main event, while unbeaten former super bantamweight world champion **Rey Vargas** returns to action against Mexico’s **Leonardo Báez** in a 10-round attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, super lightweight contenders **Elvis Rodríguez** and **Juan Pablo Romero** will duel in a 10-round showdown.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.

Dirrell (33-2-2, 24 KOs), a two-time WBC 168-pound world champion, won the title for the first time with a unanimous decision over Sakio Bika in 2014. The native of Flint, Mich. dropped the title the next year to Badou Jack by majority decision, before putting together six straight victories to get back into position to fight for the championship again. He captured the title for a second time in 2019, winning a technical decision victory over Avni Yildirim. Most recently, Dirrell battled Kyrone Davis to a draw in February, in his first fight since a title fight defeat against David Benavidez in September 2019.

“I’m very ready for this fight,” said Dirrell. “I know Hernandez is a tough competitor and I’m sure he’ll have a lot of fans there since we’re fighting on the same card as Canelo. But I know I’m ready to fight on the big stage and on a card of this magnitude. I fought on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Shawn Porter undercard and I think this fight night is going to have a similar feel. I’m just prepared to do whatever I have to do to get the victory. The fans should expect fireworks. I’m not shying away from the action and hopefully I can get the winner of Canelo vs. Plant if I perform well on November 6.”

Fighting out of Fresno, Calif., Hernández (15-4-2, 3 KOs) has faced excellent competition in his career, battling a litany of tough fellow rising contenders. The 28-year-old most recently scored an impressive unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten Armando Resendiz in September. In addition to his recent triumph, Hernández has twice faced former unified super welterweight champion Jeison Rosario, fighting to a draw in their first meeting before losing the rematch. He has also taken down then-unbeaten fighters in Kevin Newman II and Thomas Hill.

“I’m having a great training camp for this fight coming off of my performance in early September,” said Hernández. “As always, the fans can expect me to bring an entertaining fight. I know that I’m up against a former world champion who’s accomplished a lot in his career. I’m just focusing on working hard every day to get the victory and everything that will come with it.”

The former WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion, Vargas (34-0, 22 KOs) will return from layoff due to injury when he enters the ring on November 6. The 30-year-old went on the road to the U.K. to capture his title in 2017, winning a decision over previously unbeaten Gavin McDonnell. A native of Mexico City, Vargas made five successful defenses of his title, defeating top contenders including Oscar Negrete, Ronny Rios and Azat Hovhannisyan. His last fight and fifth successful title defense came via a unanimous decision over former world champion Tomoki Kameda in July 2019.

“I’m very happy for my return to the ring and my debut with PBC,” said Vargas. “You are going to see a renewed Rey Vargas on November 6. My opponent is a good fighter with speed who throws a lot of combinations. It will be a tough fight, but I know I have what it takes to win. I couldn’t be happier to be on the big stage on Canelo’s undercard. I know that I have to shine on fight night, take advantage of this showcase, and deliver a great fight for the fans.”

The Baja California, Mexico native Báez (21-4, 12 KOs) enters this fight the winner of his last three outings, all coming by TKO. The 26-year-old put together the winning streak after defeats to the previously unbeaten Carlos Caraballo and former title challenger Jason Moloney. Báez, who has fought professionally since 2013, will fight in the U.S. for the fourth time on November 6. Amongst his stateside outings, Báez dominated former interim champion Moises Flores on his way to earning a unanimous decision in February 2020.

“I’m excited for this great challenge on November 6,” said Báez. “I’m planning on giving the fans a true Mexican war and leaving it all in the ring to get the victory. It’s an honor to fight on the Canelo undercard and I’m going to make the most of it. This is going to be a toe-to-toe war, and I’m going to show that he’s not able to stand up to my power and aggression.”

Rodríguez (11-1-1, 10 KOs) burst onto the scene with knockout victories in 10 of his first 11 fights. He capped off a five-win 2020 campaign with a knockout of Cameron Krael in October and a decision victory against Luis Alberto Veron four months later. Fighting out of his native Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Rodríguez most recently dropped a narrow majority decision against Kenneth Sims Jr. in May.

“I am very thankful to my team for getting me this tremendous opportunity opening up the pay-per-view for the biggest fight of the year,” said Rodríguez. “I have a tough opponent in front of me, but I’m in the best shape of my life. I’m ready to show everyone that I’m the real deal. My goal remains the same, and that’s to win a world title in 2022. First, I am just focused on November 6 and making sure I take advantage of the opportunity that a victory will produce on my road to the world title.”

Romero (14-0, 9 KOs) turned pro in 2017 after fighting for his native Mexico at the 2016 Olympic Games. The 31-year-old dispatched solid veterans Nestor Armas, Nestor Gonzalez and Ranses Payano in 2019, before earning a 10-round decision over Sergio Torres Alvarado in his only 2020 contest. Romero made it back-to-back 10-round unanimous decision triumphs in April of this year, as he won his U.S. debut by defeating Deiner Berrio. Throughout his extensive amateur career, Romero owns an impressive victory over unbeaten welterweight contender Gabriel Maestre.

“I’m very excited that my team was able to get me this great opportunity to fight on a Canelo show in Las Vegas,” said Romero. “I feel just as happy and excited to fight as I did for the Olympic games. I’m going to prove what I’m made of on November 6. No matter who my opponent is, I always train hard and prepare to do whatever I can to earn the victory.”

# # #

***ABOUT CANELO VS. PLANT***
Canelo vs. Plant will see boxing’s consensus No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, Mexican superstar and unified WBA/WBC/WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez face undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant in a historic showdown on Saturday, November 6, live on SHOWTIME PPV at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter with the hashtag #CaneloPlant, and @Canelo, @SweetHandsPlant, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @Canelo, @CalebPlant, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal James Battles Undefeated Contender Radzhab Butaev on SHOWTIME® Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions Event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas – Tickets on Sale Now!

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

***Rising Welterweight Star Jaron Ennis Duels Veteran Contender Thomas Dulorme in Co-Main Event and Exciting Unbeaten Lightweight***
***Michel Rivera Kicks Off Telecast Facing Matías Romero***

**Tickets on Sale Now!**

**LAS VEGAS** (October 13, 2021) – WBA Welterweight Champion **Jamal “Shango” James** will defend his title against unbeaten contender **Radzhab Butaev** in a 12-round duel that headlines a night of action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising welterweight star **Jaron “Boots” Ennis** in a 10-round showdown against veteran contender **Thomas Dulorme** in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, exciting unbeaten lightweight contender **Michel Rivera** faces Argentina’s **Matías Romero** in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Ennis vs. Dulorme is promoted in association with D&D Boxing. Rivera vs. Romero is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing.

“A stacked lineup of top contenders and up-and-coming future champions will be on full display October 30 on SHOWTIME in Las Vegas,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jamal James has battled his way to the highest levels of the welterweight division and will get one step closer to gathering elite status if he can overcome the unbeaten Radzhab Butaev. The undercard bouts will also feature two rising stars, as Jaron Ennis and Michel Rivera look to impress in tough matchups on a big stage.”

Minneapolis’ James (27-1, 12 KOs) returns to action after his previous outing saw him earn an interim title by defeating Thomas Dulorme in August 2020, before later being upgraded to the “regular” championship. The 33-year-old is riding a seven-bout winning streak that includes triumphs over Abel Ramos, Diego Gabriel Chaves and Antonio DeMarco, with four of those matchups coming in his hometown, where he has grown a rabid fan base. With a win on October 30, James moves nearer to a potential rematch of his first and only defeat against WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugas.

“Training is and has been at 100%,” said James. “I’m excited to finally get back in the ring and defend my title. This will be the fight where I show everyone why I’m elite in this profession and should be recognized as one of the best.”

The 27-year-old Butaev (13-0, 10 KOs) will finally square off against James in a long-awaited matchup ordered by the WBA. Butaev turned pro after approximately 400 amateur bouts in 2016 and reeled-off KOs in six of his first seven outings. Originally from Russia and now fighting out of Brooklyn, N.Y., Butaev returned to the ring in December 2020, stopping previously unbeaten Terry Chatwood in the third round.

“We’ve been working hard for a year leading up to this fight,” said Butaev. “Everything is going really well in camp and we’re excited to finally get in the ring against James. I’ve seen how James fights and it’s definitely going to be a clash of styles. I can just promise that I’m going to bring the war and make this an exciting fight. I’m going to start writing my history on October 30.”

Ennis (27-0, 25 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining sublime boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After numerous appearances on *ShoBox: The New Generation*, the 24-year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast in his last outing in April, as he became the first fighter to stop former world champion Sergey Lipinets. The knockout victory gave Ennis 17 KOs in his last 18 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.

“I’m glad to be back in the ring October 30 on SHOWTIME in Las Vegas,” said Ennis. “This is another step towards becoming world champion! They haven’t seen nothing yet. It’s time for me to continue to shine and be great. I can’t wait to show out and have some fun.”

The 31-year-old Dulorme (25-5-1, 16 KOs) has amassed a solid resume at 140 and 147 pounds during his career, climbing into the ring with world champions Yordenis Ugas, Jessie Vargas and Terence Crawford. Born in Marigot, Guadeloupe but representing Carolina, Puerto Rico, Dulorme rebounded from a loss to Crawford for a 140-pound title by scoring back-to-back knockouts, followed by a narrow decision loss to Ugas. The world title challenger is coming off solid efforts in back-to-back decision losses against Jamal James and Eimantas Stanionis.

“I think in the Stanionis fight I demonstrated that I am still at the top level,” said Dulorme. “A lot of people told me I won that fight and I thought I did too. I’m excited to face Ennis because he’s a good fighter, but he hasn’t fought anyone like me. The fans can expect another great performance from me on SHOWTIME.”

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now fighting out of Miami, Fla. Rivera (21-0, 14 KOs) burst onto the scene in 2019, making his U.S. debut with a victory over Juan Rene Tellez. The 23-year-old continued his ascent in 2020, adding a stoppage win against Fidel Maldonado Jr. and a unanimous decision triumph against lightweight contender LaDarius Miller. Rivera has continued his dominance with a pair of knockout victories in 2021, stopping Anthony Mercado in February before most recently delivering a highlight-reel knockout of Jon Fernandez in July on SHOWTIME.

“Romero made a big mistake taking this fight,” said Rivera. “What he’s seen from me in the gym, is not the same thing that he’s going to see on fight night. He is far from a fight night fighter. He folds under pressure or runs. He is a good fighter, but he’s not at my level. I won’t let him go the distance like Isaac Cruz did. On October 30, I’m going to give him the beating of his lifetime.”

Romero (24-1, 8 KOs) made his stateside debut in March, dropping a competitive decision to top lightweight contender Isaac Cruz on SHOWTIME. Previously, the Cordoba, Argentina native picked up a pair of victories in 2020, winning a 12-round decision over Javier Jose Clavero in November, while stopping Gabriel Gustavo Ovejero in March. A pro since 2015, the 25-year-old will look to bounce back from his first defeat and move into title contention against another elite 135-pound opponent.

“Rivera and I have the same promoter and I personally requested for Sampson Lewkowicz to let me fight him when I saw he had no opponent,” said Romero. “I am willing to step in because I know I can beat him. We have trained at the same gym, but never sparred. His style is perfect for my style. This is going to be another victory for me to add to my collection.”

# # #

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

boxing, charity

2nd “Fight Night” charity event Presented by Punch4Parkinsons

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

boxing

Hard working Fernandez ready for first main event

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

10 16 Fire Fist Poster.jpg — St. Petersburg, FL (October 14, 2021) – To say that St. Petersburg junior welterweight Joseph Fernandez has a good work ethic would be an understatement.

Each weekday, Fernandez’ morning begins at 4:15 AM when he wakes up to get ready for strength and conditioning training at 5. Following the class, Fernandez grabs something to eat, cleans up and heads to his fulltime job installing hurricane windows and doors. The labor-intensive position has him working 8 to 10 hours per day. After work, Fernandez has a short time to relax and recharge before a 2-3 hour workout at Fight Fitness Center in Pinellas Park, FL.

Needless to say, it’s a challenge for the St. Petersburg native.

“It requires a lot of hard work and dedication,” said Fernandez, who has an excellent 13-3-3 professional ledger with 4 wins by KO. I have to remain focused on what I’m doing at that moment and not think about what else I’ve got going on during the day.”

On Saturday, October 16, Fernandez headlines for the first time when he meets tough Panamanian Jose Forero in a ten round contest for the ABF Atlantic 140 pound championship.

A veteran of 22 fights, Forero’s shared the squared circle with champions and contenders including George Kambosos, Jezreel Corrales, Jaime Arboleda and Willian Silva.

“He’s a durable fighter who likes to come forward and he won’t go down easily,” Fernandez said of Forero. “I’ve watched him a few times and he’s been in there with some really good fighters but we’re prepared for everything he has to offer. I’m excited to be headlining a card for the first time and worked incredibly hard to get here. The plan is to put on a great show and emerge victorious!”

The card is promoted by Fire Fist Boxing Promotions in association with Pahlavan Promotions and takes places at Banquet Masters in Clearwater, FL.

13-0 lightweight Iron Alvarez of Tampa, FL will swap leather with Jonatan “El Guapo” Godoy of Argentina over six rounds in the lightweight division. Alvarez, has 10 wins by knockout and scored a 2^nd round stoppage of Pablo Cupul last month.

Lightweight Daniel Bailey of Tampa puts his 7-0 record on the line against upset-minded Puerto Rico’s Pedro Hernandez in a six rounder. In his last bout, Hernandez beat 5-0 Daniel Perez and Bailey will be Hernandez’ sixth straight unbeaten foe.

In separate for round contests, light heavyweight Imran Haddabah of St. Petersburg meets Victor Rivera of Los Angeles, CA, flyweight Simona Sarpa of Tampa by way of Italy squares off against Park City, UT’s Maryguenn Vellinga Hinz, cruiserweight Adrian Pinheiro of Orlando, FL faces Wilson, NC’s Dequanti Johnson and Tampa middleweight Christopher Rodriguez challenges Milwaukee, WI native Jay Ellis.

Former Kazakh amateur champion Nikoay Shvab, a lightweight residing in Miami, FL, and Tampa bantamweight Luis Rivera are scheduled to appear in separate contests.

Tickets are on sale at bit.ly/boxing-tickets or by calling 727-525-3159. Doors open at 5:30 and the opening bell will sound at 6:30.

For more information on Fire Fist Boxing Promotions, visit Firefistboxing.net or Facebook.com/firefistboxing.

boxing

King’s Promotions Returns to 2300 Arena on Saturday, November 20th

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

Top Prospect Atif Oberlton Makes Hometown Debut

Kenny Robles takes on Naim Nelson

James Martin Set To Appear

Undefeated Fighters James Bernadin,Quadir Albright, Julian
Gonzalez, Devon Young and Alejandro Jimenez

Jeremy Cuevas Back in Action

PHILADELPHIA (October 14, 2021)–King’s Promotions is set to return to the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia on Saturday, November 20th with a big card of boxing planned that will feature outstanding talent in competitive fights.

Making his hometown debut will be top prospect Atif Oberlton.
Oberlton will take part in a six-round light heavyweight bout against Brent Oren (4-6, 1 KO) of Harrisburg, PA.

Oberlton, 23 years-old of Philadelphia is considered one OF the top prospects in the sport, and he is coming off a 5th round stoppage of Jasper McCargo (4-1-2) on June 27th in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Oberlton of Philadelphia was the number-two ranked light heavyweight in the United States and was a favorite to be part of the United States Olympic team, but he decided to turn his attention to the paid ranks.

Oberlton competed in approximately 100 amateur fights where he won many tournaments, including: U.S. National Junior Olympics; Two-time National Golden Gloves champion and Eastern Elite Qualifier. Oberlton placed 2nd at the 2020 United States Olympic Trials.

Oren is coming off a huge win as he upset previously undefeated Omar Salem (9-0) on August 28th in Myrtle Beach, SC
In six-round bouts, Kenny Robles (8-1, 3 KOs) of Staten Island, New York takes on Naim Nelson (14-5, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight encounter.

James Bernadin (4-0-1, 2 KOs) of Lancaster, PA will fight Kevin Asmat (6-2, 5 KOs) of North Bergen, NJ in a lightweight battle.
Quadir Albright (3-0, 3 KOs) of Chester, PA moves up to six-rounds and takes on his biggest challenge to date in William Hernandez (7-1, 4 KOs) of Burien, Washington in a super lightweight contest.
James Martin (7-3) of Philadelphia is back home to fight Edgar Torres (8-2-1, 4 KOs) of Woodbridge, VA in a welterweight fight.
Jonathan Rodriguez (9-1, 3 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA fights the battle-tested Roberto Pucheta (10-20-2, 6 KOs) of Jalisco, Mexico in bantamweight tussle.

Jeremy Cuevas (13-1, 10 KOs) of Philadelphia will take part in a super light fight against an opponent to be named.
In four-round bouts:

Julian Gonzalez (4-0, 4 KOs) of Reading, PA will fight Tyric Gainey (0-1) of Paterson, NJ in a super featherweight fight.

Devon Young (1-0, 1 KO) of AIken, SC takes on rugged Nicoy Clarke (2-6) of Jersey City, NJ in a heavyweight fight.

Rasheed Johnson (7-4, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Andres Abarca (2-5) of Normandy Park, WA in a welterweight fight.

Tickets for this outstanding evening of boxing are $150, $100, $75 and $50 and can be purchased at https://2300arena.showare.com/ordertickets.asp?p=382&src=default

boxing

Mike O’Han, Jr. headlines “Championship Road” Nov. 13th in Hampton, NH

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

QUINCY, Mass. (October 14, 2021) – Granite Chin Promotions presents its seventh and final event of 2021, “Championship Road,” on Saturday night, November 13, streaming live on bxngtv.com, from The Rim in Hampton, New Hampshire.

New England welterweight champion Mike “Bad Boy” O’Han (13-1, 7 KOs), Granite Chin’s most recent signee, meets Mexican Israel “Filipino Tigre” Rojas (14-24, 5 KOs), in the non-title fight main event. It marks O’Han’s first scheduled 10-round bout.

Fighting out of Whitman (MA), O’Han captured the vacant New England title last November, when he won an 8-round unanimous decision over Ryan Dibartolomeo, followed by a successful title defense in his last fight in June, when challenger Tyrone Luckey retired after the five rounds.

In the 6-round co-featured event, undefeated welterweight prospect Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (6-0, 5 KOs), of Holyoke (MA), faces John Ferrara (0-1), of Tiverton, Rhode Island.

“2021 has been a breakout year for Granite Chin,” Granite Chin Promotions president Chris Traietti said, “but it won’t light a candle compared to what is coming in 2022. The roster is getting bigger, more signings are on the way, and people will see Granite Chin fighters more and more on the biggest stages in the sport.”

Fighting on the undercard, each slated for 4 rounds, is Woburn (MA) middleweight Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Providence’s pro-debuting Alfred “Keenan” Raymond, Lynn ‘s (MA) pro-debuting Alex Falcon vs. Wallace Nass Silva (0-2), Maine middleweight Llmar Kelly in his pro debut vs. Wallace Nass Silva (0-2), Holyoke (MA) junior middleweight Carlos Castillo (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Swansea’s (MA) Anthony Andreozzi (0-1), Pittsfield (MA) super middleweight Steve Sumpter (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Juan Celin Zapata (6-19-2, 4 KOs), and Springfield (MA) middleweight Jamer Jones (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Woburn’s (MA) Aguilando Brandao (1-7).

Also, Lawrence (MA) lightweight “El Gallo” Kevin Rodriguez (2-1, 1 KO) vs. Daron Jenkins (0-5), Springfield light heavyweight Laurent Humes (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Woburn’s pro-debuting Thailisson Nunes, Providence (RI) welterweight Damon Towns (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA, and Pittsfield (MA) heavyweight Quinton Sumpter (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Woburn’s pro-debuting Wewerson Silveira Silva.

Card subject to change.

Tickets priced at $60.00 (ringside) and $40.00 (general admission, in addition to ringside tables of four for $260.00, are available to purchase at www.TicketRiver.com (Search: Championship Road).

Doors open at 5 pm. ET with the first bout at 5:30 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin, @flymikemarshall

boxing

World-Rated Russian Light Heavyweight Ali Izmailov Returns Saturday for Showdown Against Detroit’s James Ballard in Dearborn, MI

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

This Saturday, October 16, IBF #11, WBC #14 and WBO #15 light heavyweight Ali Izmailov (5-0, 3 KOs) returns to action against capable hometown veteran James Ballard (10-3, 3 KOs) in the eight-round main event of promoters Kenny D Moore and Vi Tran’s of Second 2 None Promotions’ “Best of Tomorrow 12” event at the Performance Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan.

The 28-year-old Izmailov, from Malgobek, Russia, is a former amateur standout who won multiple elite international tournaments. Already world-rated as a professional at just 5-0, 3 KOs, Izmailov recently started working with world-famous Florida-based trainer John David Jackson at his Action Jackson Boxing Academy in Fort Lauderdale.

Jackson, who has spent the last three weeks sizing up his new protegee, says Izmailov is a diamond in the rough waiting for polish.

“The sky is the limit for him with his punching power,” said Jackson of Izmailov. “He’s a tremendous puncher, but he’s also got natural boxing skills. As a fighter, I don’t think he realizes his potential. I’m getting him to move his head more and throw more combinations, instead of one power punch at a time. Nothing against his old trainers, but once he learns to throw three or four shots to set them up and camouflage the hard ones, he will be unstoppable.”

Jackson says the 32-year-old Ballard will be a good test for Izmailov and his newfound skills, but shouldn’t be able to derail any of their plans.

“Ballard is good, but Ali just has to pressure him and go to the body to break him down. Once his opponents feel his power, they all have a change of heart. Once Ali hits him with some good shots, it’ll be a matter of time.”

“Ali has amazing potential to be a star and John David is the perfect trainer to bring that out of him,” said Izmailov’s promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “I think you’ll see the improvements immediately under his expert tutelage. Ali was already the best prospect in the light heavyweight division.”

Tickets for “Best of Tomorrow 12” are priced at $25 – $1,000 and can be purchased online through Eventbrite.com. On fight night, the action starts at 7:00 pm. The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Avenue in Dearborn, MI. The event is sponsored by One Punch Knockout Gym, Topbreed Management, Pharaoh Website Hosting & Restaurant Online Ordering Service, MJ Diamonds, Family Tied Entertainment.

boxing, women's boxing

19-Year-Old Phenom Gabriela Fundora Returns October 23 in Mexico Against Alejandra Soto

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

On Saturday, October 23, 19-year-old flyweight prospect Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (4-0, 2 KO) will return for a six-round flyweight battle on LC Promotions’ “Round x Round” event at the Salón de Usos Múltiples 3 Coronas in Los Reyes, Estado de México, against tough veteran Alejandra “Tintanita” Soto (7-6-1, 3 KO).

The event will be streamed live on Facebook.

Fighting for the fifth fight already this year, the skillful 5′ 9″ southpaw from Coachella, California, says winning her last two by KO was not a coincidence.

“I’ve turned my power up a notch,” admits Fundora during a break in training. “It happened so naturally. My first two pro fights, it was like dipping my toe in the shallow end. As soon as I had my third fight, I got used to the rhythm and since then it’s been time to sit down on my punches and show them what we’ve really got.”

While Fundora says she doesn’t often study specific opponents, she’s looking forward to getting back in the ring against Soto.

“I don’t know much about her, but we train hard to prepare for any style. We you know what you bring to the ring, you don’t worry about who you’re facing. The more I fight, the more chances I get to go over what I’m doing wrong during fights and fix it for the next one. I’m improving very quickly fighting every month and I’m in top shape.”

From a fighting family that also includes top super welterweight contender Sebastian “Towering Inferno” Fundora, the former amateur standout Gabriela says she’s seeing big improvements working, as she always has, with her father/trainer, Freddy, at his growing gym in Coachella.

“We’ve been training like this since I was small. It’s nothing new. We wake up at 6 am and run about six miles. Then, around 5 pm, we do strength and conditioning and then we get into the boxing. My speed and power are improving,” she said happily. “I recorded myself doing mitt work I didn’t realize how fast and hard I was punching until I watched the video.”

Set to have her third consecutive fight in Mexico, Fundora says she’s been very happy with the reception from Mexican fans.

“The fans in Mexico have all been very kind,” said Fundora. “They treat me like one of their own. We decided to take some fights in Mexico so I would have the experience of going outside my comfort zone to fight and the people here are amazing. It’s been an amazing experience.”

Surprisingly Fundora says the plan is to fight up to two more times this year.

“We fight every month, so by the end of the year I hope to have six fights,” Fundora asserted. “I hope to be fighting for a regional belt by next year. It’s all going to be happening soon.”

“Gabriela Fundora, the Sweet Poison, will be a world champion very soon,” said her promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz. “She has settled into the professional style and now she is knocking everyone out. I’m looking forward to a very exciting year next year for Gabriela.”

boxing

Silva confident ahead of Seldin showdown

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

St. Petersburg, FL (October 7, 2021) –Willian “Baby Face” Silva will battle Cletus “Hebrew Hammer” Seldin for the NABA Super Lightweight title Saturday, October 16 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

Originally from Brazil and currently residing in Florida, Silva has an excellent professional record of 28 wins with 3 defeats and 18 wins by knockout. The 33 year old has faced the likes of undisputed lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez, top rated Arnold Barboza and Felix Verdejo.

One of New York’s most popular fighters, Seldin will be fighting for the 22^nd time in the Empire State. The Long Island native enters the ring with an excellent 25-1 record and 21 wins by stoppage. Notable fighters he’s defeated include Zab Judah and Roberto Ortiz.

A win by Seldin brings him closer to a world title shot but Silva has other plans.

“This is a great opportunity and I’m going to make the most of,” Silva said from his training camp in St. Petersburg, FL. “Seldin is a good opponent but I have the necessary skills to have my hands raised on October 16. I also know a win in this fight would prove that I am among the best fighters in my division and move me closer to my goal of winning a world title.”

Silva’s manager, Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Management, is excited and believes his fighter will emerge victorious.

“Willian was actually scheduled to fight in October 16 in Florida before this fight came together. It’s almost as if this was meant to happen and I know Silva has what it takes to pull this out. He’s training with Hall of Fame coach Jim McLaughlin, who’s brought out the best in him. Seldin is in for a big surprise!”

The bout airs live on Triller and precedes the Verzuz battle between hip hop legends Big Daddy Kane and KRS-One. Both fighters are promoted by Star Boxing.

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights, women's MMA

BJ GARCEAU WILL RETURN TO THE CAGE AT NEF 45 AGAINST HAYLEY MARTIN

October 16, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (October 7, 2021) – New England Fights (NEF) returns with its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 45: Uprising,” on Friday, November 5, 2021, at Aura in Portland, Maine. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur women’s strawweight bout to the fight card. BJ Garceau will meet Hayley Martin at a fight weight of 115 pounds.

The fight will see Garceau (1-1) return to the NEF cage after a three-year absence. She made her debut at “NEF 32” in February 2018 with a split decision win over Sarah Ziehm (1-2). Garceau then lost via technical knockout to Chelsea Tucker (3-3) in the third round of their bout at “NEF 36” in the fall of that year. She had been scheduled to make her return to action at “NEF 43” in 2020 until the COVID-19 pandemic forced the postponement of the event. Garceau represents Young’s MMA of Bangor, Maine.

“I can’t believe I’m stepping back into the cage again this November,” exclaimed Garceau. “When we had to stop training last year, I felt like I lost my family, my health, and that hit me hard mentally and physically. I was a mess. So once (Young’s MMA head coach) Chris Young and so many other amazing coaches from other gyms said ‘come home’ a/k/a ‘get back into the gym,’ I finally felt whole again once we were on the mats. I didn’t think it would happen again, but honestly after everything that’s been going on in the world and personally the past 18-months, I’ve never wanted to fight this bad. I’m thankful for the opportunity and honestly it could have been anyone standing across from me at this point. I am happy to throw down with Hayley, and promise I will not let anyone down in that cage! I would say more, but I gotta go train. Let’s do this!”

Hayley Martin will be making her in-cage debut in the fight with Garceau at “NEF 45” – just a few weeks after celebrating her 50^th birthday. Martin is an independent fighter whose dream it has been to actively compete in MMA.

“I’m beyond excited to step into the cage, test my skills and show what hard work and dedication looks like,” said Martin. “I’m on this journey because I have never felt anything that makes me feel more alive, strong and confident. And when that moment happens on November 5th, I will leave it all in the cage and fight my ass off for every woman that thought dreams can’t come true.”

“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.

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.

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