All posts by FNU47

Fight Network, Judo, kickboxing, martial arts, mixed martial arts

FIGHT NETWORK MMA & KICKBOXING PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE (May 25-31, 2015)

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Fight Network is a 24/7 television channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports. It airs programs focused on the entire scope of the combat sports genre, including live fights and up-to-the-minute news and analysis for mixed martial arts, kickboxing, professional wrestling, traditional martial arts, boxing, fight news, as well as fight-themed drama series, documentaries and feature films.

 

Below find highlights of this week’s programming:

Monday, May 25

6:30 p.m. ET – 2014 Judo Qingdao Grand Prix– Highlights from the 2014 Judo Qingdao Grand Prix from Nov. 19-21, 2014 in China.

7:00 p.m. ET – 5 Rounds – Hosts John Ramdeen and Robin Black invite special guests to break down the weekend of MMA action.

7:30 p.m. ET – Fight News Now Extra – The latest news, recaps, features and inside analysis of the fight game.

8:00 p.m. ET – Enfusion Live #29: Amsterdam – Professional kickboxing from Amsterdam, Holland.

Tuesday, May 26

1:30 a.m. ET – Hip Show: Arena Combat – Tag-team MMA inside a 12m by 12m arena with three-level obstacle structures.

2:30 am. ET – XPTV – Coverage of regional U.S pro and amateur MMA.

7:30 a.m. ET – Fight News Now Extra – The latest news, recaps, features and inside analysis of the fight game.

7:00 & 7:30 p.m. ET – Xtreme Fighting Championship – Florida-based professional MMA featuring top American prospects, international stars and UFC veterans.

8:00 p.m. ET – 5 Rounds – Hosts John Ramdeen and Robin Black invite special guests to break down the weekend of MMA action.

8:30 p.m. ET — Fight News Now Extra – The latest news, recaps, features and inside analysis of the fight game.

11:00 p.m. ET – Hard Knocks Fighting 41 – Featuring Rodney Wallace vs., Misha Cirkuinov from Jan. 30, 2015in Calgary, Canada.

Wednesday, May 27

3:00 a.m. ET – Texas Fight Night – MMA action from Texas featuring the Lone Star State’s top prospects in the cage.

6:00 p.m. ET – Best of Cage Rage – Featuring classic fights from the UK-based Cage Rage organization with Anderson Silva, Antonio Silva, Victor Belfort, Paul Daley and others.

7:00 p.m. ET – Fight News Now Extra: MMA Edition – Covering all the happenings in the MMA world with exclusive analysis and features.

7:30 p.m. ET — Fight News Now Extra – The latest news, recaps, features and inside analysis of the fight game.

8:00 p.m. ET – Fighting Spirit Season 4 – Compilations of international MMA fights from SFL, FFC, M-1 and more.

9:00 p.m. ET – Cage Warriors 39 – Featuring Rosi Sexton vs. Sally Krumdiack and Aisling Saly vs. Molly Helsel in female bouts from Nov. 27, 2010 in Cork City, Ireland.

11:00 p.m. ET – MMA Meltdown with Gabriel Morency – Gabriel Morency breaks down all the happenings in MMA, discussing odds, predictions, plus special weekly guests and exclusive interviews.

11:30 p.m. ET – TakeDown Wrestling – Extensive coverage of amateur wrestling events, including the latest news, behind-the-scenes coverage from events and exclusive interviews.

Thursday, May 28

1:30 a.m. ET – Ultimate Challenge MMA 9: Fighting for Heroes – Featuring Jimi Manuwa vs. Shaun Lomas from Dec. 5, 2009 in London.

6:00 p.m. ET – Championship Fightling Alliance – Pro MMA from Florida featuring the likes of Josh Sampo, Mike Kyle, John Howard, Sean McCorkie, Luis Palomino and others.

7:00 p.m. ET – Fighting Rookies – Aspiring kickboxers climb the ladder of success in the sport as rookies compete for a chance to become professionals and get experience needed to succeed at a higher level.

8:00 p.m. ET – Fight News Now: MMA Edition – Covering all the happenings in the MMA world with exclusive analysis and features.

8:30 p.m. ET — Fight News Now Extra – The latest news, recaps, features and inside analysis of the fight game.

9:00 p.m. ET – M-1 Challenge 31: Monson vs. Oleinik – Featuring Jeff Monson vs. Alexey Oleinik, Alexander Yakovlev vs. Shamil Zarurov, Rashid Magoimedov vs. Yasubey Enomoto and Aleksander Emelianaenko vs. Tadas Rimkevicius from Mar. 16, 2012 in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Friday, May 29

2:00 a.m. ET – Pancrase Classics – Classic pioneering MMA battles featuring Ken Shamrock, Frank Shamrock, Bas Rutten, Nate Marquardt, Chael Sonnen and others.

4:00 a.m. ET – Best of DEEP – Featuring class fights from the historic Japanese DEEP promotion including Shinya Aoki, Hayato Sakurai and Gegard Mousasi.

5:00 a.m. ET – Best of Jewels – Classic fights from the all-female Japanese MMA league, Jewels.

6:00 p.m. ET – M-1 Challenge – Pro MMA from Europe featuring top rising prospects and international stars.

8:00 p.m. ET – Toe 2 Toe with Carlos Condit – In-depth sit-down interview with interim UFC welterweight champion Carlos Condit.

9:00 p.m. ET — KSW 19 – Featuring Pudzianowski vs. Sapp – Featuring Mariusz Pudzianowski vs. Bob Sapp and Mamed Khalidov vs. Rodney Wallace from May 12, 2012 in Lodz, Poland.

Saturday, May 30

1:00 a.m. ET – SuperKombat: New Heroes Constanta 2014I – Featuring Catalin Morosanu vs. Giannis Stoforidis from Aug. 2, 2014 in Constanta, Romania.

6:00 a.m. ET – Best of TKO – Featuring David Loiseau vs. Shawn Tomkins from TKO UCC 4

7:00 a.m. ET – Best of Gladiator Challenge – Featuring Urijah Faber vs. Jay Valencia from Gladiator Challenge 20.

10:00 a.m. ET – Best of SportFight – Top quality MMA from the Pacific Northwest, hosted by UFC veterans Matt LIndland and Chael Sonnen. This episode features the rise of SportFight champion Enoch Wilson.

7:00 p.m. ET – UFC Fight Night: Condit vs. Alves Pre-Show – LIVE pre-fight coverage and analysis from UFC Fight Night: Condit vs. Alves in Goiania, Brazil.

8:00 p.m. ET – CANADA ONLY – UFC Fight Night: Condit vs. Alves Prelims LIVE

8:00 p.m. ET – Fight News Now: MMA Edition – Covering all the happenings in the MMA world with exclusive analysis and features.

8:30 p.m. ET — Fight News Now Extra – The latest news, recaps, features and inside analysis of the fight game.

9:00 p.m. ET – World Combat Games Wrestling Package – Coverage of the wrestling event from the 2013 SportAccord Games from Oct. 24, 2013.

10:30 p.m. ET – World Combat Games Wrestling Package Day 2 – Coverage of the wrestling event from the 2013 SportAccord Games from Oct. 25, 2013.

Sunday, May 31

6:00 a.m. ET – Pancrase Classics – Classic pioneering MMA battles featuring Ken Shamrock, Frank Shamrock, Bas Rutten, Name Marquardt, Chael Sonnen and others.

10:00 a.m. ET – Best of ADCC – Featuring compilations of the greatest grappling matches ever held, featuring Tito Ortiz, Matt Hughes, Eddie Bravo, Fabricio Werdum, Marcelo Garcia, Ronaldo Souza and Royler Gracie.

11:00 a.m. ET – Elite Muay Thai: Thailand vs. Challenger – The biggest Muay Thai series in the world featuring premium international stand-up fighters taking on the renowned Thai National Team

7:00 p.m. ET – USA Wrestling Weekly – Host Scott Casber gives weekly news and analysis centering around USA Wrestling, the sport’s national governing body, including interviews, features and look back at the past.

7:30 p.m. ET – Judo Jeju Grand Prix 2014 – Highlights from the Judo Jeju Grand Prix from Nov. 27-29, 2014 in South Korea.

11:00 p.m. ET – King of Kings: World Cup Heroes 2013 – Featuring a one-night, single-elimination 71 kg tournament from Nov., 16, 2013 in Vilnius, Lithuania.

 

Information:

 

www.FightNetwork.com

 

Twitter & Instagram @fightnet

 

www.Facebook.com/FightNetwork

 
ABOUT FIGHT NETWORK:  Fight Network is the world’s premier combat sports network dedicated to 24/7 coverage, including fights, fighters, fight news and fight lifestyle. The channel is available in the U.S. on Cablevision in parts of New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, Texas-based Grande Communications, Armstrong Cable in Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio, as well as on Shentel Cable in Virginia, West Virginia and portions of western Maryland. Fight Network is also on Roku set top boxes in the U.S. and Canada, streamed live on website KlowdTV.com, and available on all major carriers in Canada and more than 30 countries across Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
mixed martial arts, Uncategorized

THREE TITLE MATCHES FOR FIGHT NIGHT 10 AT CLUB NOKIA AT L.A. LIVE, MAY 31

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Los Angeles, CA – The University of MMA marks its latest milestone on Sunday, May 31, with the tenth installment of its ‘Fight Night’ series. Taking place at Club Nokia at L.A. LIVE (aka “the U of MMA campus”), University of MMA: Fight Night 10 is packed with 15 fights, including three title matches to crown new University of MMA champions. Tickets are now on sale atwww.UofMMA.com and www.axs.com.

 

A new University of MMA’s lightweight champion will be decided between Julio ‘The Gr818er’ Lopez (Kings Combat Sports) and Antonio Lopez (Gooch Training Academy/Saekson Muay Thai). Julio advanced from the opening round of the University of MMA lightweight championship tournament, still undefeated. Antonio was originally scheduled to be in the tournament as well, before injury sidelined him from action. But both men ride four-fight win streaks going into this title match, meaning pride and glory are on the line.

 

With Elite Training Center’s featherweight star Tommy Aaron vacating his University of MMA title to turn pro, the crown at 145 lbs. once again finds itself without a king. That won’t be for long, however, as U of MMA perennial favorite Ryan ‘The Lion’ Lilley (Bas Rutten’s Elite Training Center) and the fast-rising Albert Veloz (Cage Combat Academy) vie to become the third-ever University of MMA featherweight champion.

“The University of MMA has definitely grown as a live event series with the expansion of our fan base and the shows getting bigger and better every time.  The same can be said for amateur fighters who have grown and matured within our promotion. Guys like Ryan ‘The Lion’ Lilley who will be fighting for us for the eighth time, and Albert Veloz, who is improving right under our eyes. We’re proud to see the development of fighters like Ryan and Albert, who will go on to be great pros,” commented U of MMA founder Turi Altavilla.

Two more U of MMA favorites will also square off to become the first-ever University of MMA bantamweight champion, as Vince ‘The Anomaly’ Cachero and Demar ‘King’ George revisit each other in a rematch from 2013. The two met originally at Fight Night 3, when both were very young in their MMA careers. More seasoned in experience and sharper in skill, they are very much different fighters.

 

“The six individuals vying for University of MMA titles on this show are people of heart, technical skill, character and integrity. We’ve seen their championship efforts on previous shows and they deserve the recognition these matches offer,” said U of MMA matchmaker Jay Tan.

 

Other confirmed matches for University of MMA: Fight Night 10 include:

 

University of MMA Lightweight Championship Tournament Finals:

155 lbs. – Julio Lopez (Kings Combat Sports) vs.Antonio Lopez (Gooch Training Academy/Saekson Muay Thai)

 

University of MMA Bantamweight Championship:

135 lbs. – Vince ‘The Anomaly’ Cachero (Systems Training Center) vs. Demar ‘King’ George (Dream Killer Fight Team)

 

University of MMA Featherweight Championship:

145 lbs. – Ryan ‘The Lion’ Lilley (Bas Rutten’s Elite MMA Gym) vs. Albert Veloz (Cage Combat Academy)

 

155 lbs. – Remington Thorne (Saekson Muay Thai) vs.Carnation ‘The Flash’ Contreras (Krav Maga Unyted)

 

120 lbs. (catchweight) – Jasmine ‘Tapout Queen’ Pouncy (Nubians MMA) vs. Akari Wang (Systems Training Center)

 

205 lbs. – Travis Williams (Elite Training Center) vs.Jonathan ‘Jonny McGregor’ Sweitzer (Valhalla ETC)

 

155 lbs. – Troy Hargrow (Nubians MMA) vs. Zach Kraschinsky (Bas Rutten’s Elite Training Center)

 

125 lbs. – Karlee Pagilinan (Team Quest) vs. Gilbert Nakatani (Sityodtong LA)

 

125 lbs. – Matheus Leaondro Santos (MMAFC) vs.Angel Diaz (Systems Training Center)

 

170 lbs. – Aaron Landry (Ring of Fire Martial Arts Academy) vs. Lance ‘The Black Ranger’ Bush (Team Lagarto)

 

145 lbs. – Victor Rivera (Nubians MMA) vs. Juan Vasquez (Team Victory Muay Thai/Dream Killer Fight Team)

 

195 lbs. (catchweight) – Christopher Llanes (Team Quest) vs. David Boyko (Bas Rutten’s Elite MMA Gym)

 

145 lbs. – Andrew Secaida (Dream Killer Fight Team)vs. Kurt Eberhard (Saekson Muay Thai)

 

135 lbs. – David Perez (Riverside Submission) vs. Julio Santa Cruz (Systems Training Center)

 

145 lbs. – Benito Mendez (Kings Combat Sports) vs.Sergio Gonzalez (Yuma United Fight Team)

 

The University of MMA: Fight Night 10 takes place at5:00pm on Sunday, May 31, 2015, at Club Nokia at L.A. LIVE, 800 West Olympic Boulevard. Doors open at 4:30pm. Fight card is subject to change. Tickets are now available and can be purchased through www.UofMMA.com andwww.AXS.com, charge by phone at 888-9AXS-TIX or 888-929-7849, and from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, Mon-Fri at the STAPLES Center Box Office located at 1111 S. Figueroa St. Applicable fees may apply. The Club Nokia box office will open at 2:00pm the day of the event.
Boxcino, boxing, ESPN Friday Night Fights

John Thompson ready to win Boxcino title tonight

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For Immediate Release

Corona, California (May 22, 2015)-–Tonight at the Omega Products Outdoor Arena, John Thompson (16-1, 5 KO’s) looks  to win the Boxcino Jr. Middlweight championship when he takes on Brandon Adams in the finale of ESPN Friday Night Fights.

Thompson weighed in at a ready 153.2 at Thursday’s weigh in and he looks in prime shape to not only win the title but enter the world rankings.
“John has been really working hard in Virginia.  This is his 2nd training camp down there and after his layoff we have really seen the improvement and his confidence,”said Thompson’s promoter Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions.
Thompson, who literally entered the tournament at the last second when Cleotis Pendarvis failed to make weight for his opening round bout with Ricardo Pinnel.  Thompson went out and boxed very soundly to win the unanimous decision.
In his semifinal bout with previously undefeated Stanyslav Skorokhod, Thompson peppered the undefeated Ukrainian fr.om the outside and mixed it up on the iniside en route to winning the split decision on April 10 in Bethlehem, PA.
Now Thompson will take on the Boxcino veteran Adams with the eye on becoming a major player in the crowded Jr. Middleweight division
“I have believed in John since day one.  A lot of people jumped off the bandwagon since his loss to Frank Galarza.  But I always knew he had the ability to compete at the highest level and tonight he will prove that I am excited for not only tonight but the future of John.  He is just 26 and is best boxing is ahead of him,” finished Mielnicki
Photo By Emily Harney / Banner Promotions
GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Jr. Middleweight John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight Jerrell Harris,undefeated Super Bantamweight Qa’id Muhammad, undefeated lightweight Oscar Bonilla, Heavyweight Natu Visinia and Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell to the GH3 Promotions stable.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

AMIR KHAN VS. CHRIS ALGIERI LIP SYNC BATTLE AHEAD OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SPIKE FIGHT FRIDAY, MAY 29 AT BARCLAYS CENTER

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Before they battle it out in Brooklyn, click here or below to watch Amir Khan and Chris Algieri face off on the Lip Sync Battle stage featuring host LL COOL J and Colorful Commentator Chrissy Teigen.

The highly anticipated Amir Khan vs. Chris Algieri fight takes place Friday, May 29th at 9:00pm ET/6:00pm PT LIVE on Spike.

Amir Khan vs. Chris Algieri – “Mama Said Knock You Out”

Friday, May 29th – 9 ET/ 6PT

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

at Barclays Center LIVE ON SPIKE

Amir Khan vs. Chris Algieri

Javier Fortuna vs. Bryan Vasquez
mixed martial arts, RFA

RFA BRINGS FIRST NATIONALLY TELEVISED MMA EVENT TO IDAHO

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RFA 27 IN BOISE,IDAHO
FRIDAY JULY 3RD LIVE ON AXS TV
MAIN EVENT:
JOE MURPHY vs JESSE BROCK
CO-MAIN EVENT:
CZAR SKLAVOS vs NICK BURGOS
Tickets on Sale now at

CenturyLinkArenaBoise.com

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Resurrection Fighting Alliance (RFA) president Ed Soares announced today that the promotion will be bringing the first nationally televised MMA event to the state of Idaho. RFA 27 – Murphy vs. Brock will feature a main event pitting a rising prospect against asurging vet. RFA fan favorite Joe Murphy returns to face the powerhouse Jesse Brock, who is one of the most accomplished MMA fighters to call Idaho home. The event takes place Friday, July 3rd at the CenturyLink Arena in Boise, Idaho. The entire main card will be televised live and nationwide on AXS TV at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.
“I’m excited to bring the first nationally televised MMA event to Idaho,” stated Soares. “Joe Murphy vs. Jesse Brock is a classic match-up of jiu-jitsu vs. wrestling, but more importantly it’s a clash between a promising prospect and a surging vet. That really makes you appreciate the gravity of this main event in what will be the crown jewel MMA event to take place in the Gem State.”
Eric Trapp, the president of CenturyLink Arena, also expressed his excitement about hosting Idaho’s first nationally televised MMA event.
“We’re excited to help bring such a great event to the state of Idaho and showcase not only our arena, but also our fighters to a nationwide audience on July 3rd,” stated Trapp. “The RFA brand is one of the best out there and CenturyLink Arena is proud to host this event.”
Tickets for RFA 27 – Murphy vs. Brock are available for purchase NOW through CenturyLinkArenaBoise.com.
Murphy (8-2) returns to the RFA octagon after two memorable performances in the RFA octagon within a 9 week span. Murphy made his long-awaited RFA debut this past December in the co-main event of RFA 21 to much fanfare. He more than lived up to expectations with a scintillating first round TKO victory over the highly-touted Bruno Frazatto. 9 weeks later, Murphy headlined RFA 23 against Terrion Ware in what many have pegged as a “Fight of the Year” contender. Murphy is now looking forward to a new challenge as he travels to his next opponent’s hometown.
“Jiu-Jitsu vs. Wrestling is an endless debate. I’m excited to see how I match up against someone with Jesse Brock’s credentials,” said Murphy. “Hopefully, he sells out the arena on July 3rd, so I get boo’d on my way to the cage. I’m pretty damn good at turning those boos into cheers by the time it’s over.”
Brock (20-8) enters this fight as one of the most experienced bantamweight fighters in RFA history. Brock will be making his RFA debut 9 years after he made his professional MMA debut. The former Boise State wrestling standout has since competed on three continents against some of the biggest names in the sport, which includes bouts against current UFC flyweight champion Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, #3 ranked UFC lightweight Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, and former UFC lightweight title challenger Caol Uno. Brock is currently riding the momentum of a four-fight win streak and is looking forward to parlaying that momentum into the main event of RFA 27.
“This fight is definitely a big deal for me and the entire MMA community in Idaho,” stated Brock. “I feel honored that the RFA picked me to spearhead Idaho’s first nationally televised MMA event. I can’t wait to perform in front of my friends and family at RFA 27.”
The co-main event of RFA 27 will feature two of the sport’s most promising flyweight prospects, when Idaho’s own Czar Sklavos (11-4) battles Jeremy Horn protégé Nick Burgos (9-3). Sklavos, who hails from Twin Falls, Idaho, has secured 9 of his 11 wins via submission and has never been finished in a career dating back to March 2010. In his pro debut, he happened to go the distance with current UFC bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw. More recently, Sklavos advanced to the finals of the Vale Tudo Japan flyweight tournament last fall and is eager to test his experience against the talented and red-hot Burgos. Six consecutive opponents over the past two and a half years have been defeated by the Utah based flyweight, but Burgos’ marquee victory came in his most recent bout. That win came over former RFA flyweight champion Matt Manzanares via Unanimous Decision in March.
The feature fight of RFA 27 will be a battle of two explosive heavyweights, who are hungry to make a statement. Jan Jorgensen (7-1) and Dale Sopi (6-1) are a combined 13-0 outside the RFA and are eager to make some noise in the talented RFA heavyweight division. Jorgensen, who was a football star at BYU before transitioning to MMA, trains at The Pit Elevated in Orem, Utah alongside UFC star and TUF 11 champion Court McGee. His opponent Sopi is a native of Nanakuli, Hawaii and trains at Power MMA in Gilbert, Arizona alongside UFC star and TUF 8 champion Ryan Bader. Additional bouts at RFA 27 will be announced soon. RFA 27 will be the promotion’s first event to take place in the “Gem State” of Idaho, which will be the 13th state the RFA has held an event. The entire main card of RFA 27 – Murphy vs. Brock will be televised live and nationwide on AXS TV at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT on Friday, July 3rd.
Please visit RFAfighting.com for bout updates and information. RFA is also on Facebook at Facebook.com/RFAfighting, Instagram at @RFAfighting, and Twitter at @RFAfighting.
Boxcino, boxing, ESPN Friday Night Fights

Boxcino 2015 finals weigh in Photos

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ORANGE, Calif. (May 21, 2015) – ESPN’s “Friday Night Fights” final broadcast features two outstanding fights in the heavyweight and junior middleweight divisions that will decide the 2015 Boxcino Champions.
Below are photos from Thursday’s weigh in from the Boxcino Finals that will take place on Friday at the Omega Products International Outdoor Arena in Corona, California.  The show begins at 10:00 ET on ESPN 2 as the finale of ESPN FridayNight Fights.

 

The Boxcino 2015 tournament is promoted by Banner Promotions.  Friday’s show is promoted by Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions.

 
Heavyweight finals–Andrey Fedosov (l) and Donovan Dennis

Jr. Middleweight finals. John Thompson (l) and Brandon Adams

Andrey Fedosov

Donovan Dennis

John Thompson

Brandon Adams

Photos by Emily Harney / Banner Promotions

boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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(From left to right: Murphys Boxing Ken Casey, Andre Dirrell, DiBella Entertainment’s Lou DiBella, James Degale, Matchroom Boxing’s Eddie Hearn & Murphys Boxing Sean Sullivan)

(From left to right: Murphys Boxing Ken Casey, Chris Gilbert, Logan McGuinness, Gary O’Sullivan, Edwin Rodriguez, Andre Dirrell, James DeGale, Craig Baker, Danny O’Connor & Murphys Boxing Sean Sullivan)

 

Click HERE For Photos From Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions

 

Click HERE For Photos From Carly Gillis Photography

 

BOSTON (May 21, 2015) – Fighters participating on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBC card took part in the final press conference today at historic Fenway Park in Boston before their respective fights at Agganis Arena, with televised coverage starting at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Murphys Boxing, are priced at $250, $200, $100, $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now.

 

Here are what the press conference participants had to say:

 

ANDRE DIRRELL

 

“A title means everything. It completes you as a fighter. That’s the top of the food chain in this sport, and that’s the pedestal we’re all trying to reach – world champion. Everybody wants to be a world champion. The greats had it and now we want it. It would mean more for my city, my family and my friends, and it’s something I’ll always be able to look back it. It would put me in the record books for life.

 

“DeGale is not quiet. Today he’s chilling, maybe because he’s a little out of his comfort zone. But there’s a lot of tension when you’re standing right there next to your opponent. He might just be a little cranky today.

 

“I like to lighten the mood and stay comfortable. This is all a part of the game. Let’s have fun now. It’s ass-kicking time when we get in that ring, but outside it’s all love.

 

“There was a time when I didn’t want to do interviews. I didn’t want to go to fights. I didn’t want to hear fans online and on social media. I closed all them down because I didn’t want to hear people ask, ‘When are you fighting again? Talking about talent wasted, or saying I’m glad he’s gone.’ It hurt because there was nothing I could do. I was powerless even with all the power in the world.”

 

JAMES DEGALE

 

“Andre says the belt doesn’t mean anything to him in the fight – well, the belt means everything to me and more. I am here to make history and it doesn’t happen without that title.

 

“I could win on Saturday night and retire a happy man – that’s how much I want to beat Andre Dirrell. But when I do win that title, I am going for the rest of the belts, creating a lasting legacy for my country, my fans and myself.

 

“Andre is a classy fighter and he showed in the press conference that he is a classy guy too – when two fighters who believe in their ability 100 percent and know they are going to win a fight, it is going to be explosive.

 

“There’s nothing but respect between us, but ultimately, we’re going to take each other to dark territory on Saturday night, it’s going to be a brutal battle – and one that I am going to win.”

 

EDWIN RODRIGUEZ

 

“This is home for me and I’m thrilled. I know I have a good undefeated fighter in front me, so I’m looking forward to a competitive matchup. It’s going to be a great fight for the fans.

 

“This is an exciting day for me. I saw Pedro Martinez pitch so many times here at Fenway and he’s going into the Hall of Fame. Also, my fellow countrymen Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz have made so much history here.

 

“Being here today and then having the weigh-in at Faneuil Hall tomorrow and fighting on Saturday, it’s just an amazing experience.

 

CRAIG BAKER

 

“This is a great opportunity for me. I’ve dreamed of fighting on a grand scale like this since I first started boxing.

 

“The entire experience has been awesome. It’s going to be an interesting fight. I’m going to keep coming forward. I’m going to keep boxing all night.

 

“Everyone should look forward to an action packed night, I know it’s going to be an interesting matchup.”

 

DANNY O’CONNOR

 

“A couple of years ago Ken Casey and I talked about bringing boxing back to the city of Boston. Fast-forward to today and we’re doing it.

 

“I’m excited to be part of it and to see boxing in Boston blossom. It’s good for the city and all the young boxers in this area.

 

“I know I have a tough opponent in front of me and I won’t take him lightly. I’m planning on putting on a show for the fans come Saturday night.”

 

CHRIS GILBERT

 

“I’m an aggressive come forward, in your face boxer from the first bell to the last.

 

“I was full steam ahead when I got the call for this fight. I train all the time, I don’t take breaks and I’m always looking for an opportunity. I couldn’t be happier.

 

“Danny O’Connor is one of the best in my weight division in New England. Everything he does, he does well.

 

“I just need to keep my head and continue to come forward, I can’t get frustrated. I’m going 100 percent the full way through. If I’m busy and I fight smart I get good outcomes.

 

# # #

 

The Saturday, May 23 edition of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC featuresAndre Dirrell (24-1, 16 KOs) and James DeGale (20-1, 14 KOs) in a 12-round super middleweight showdown and Edwin Rodriguez (26-1, 17 KOs) vs. Craig Baker (16-0, 12 KOs) in 10-round light heavyweight match up. . Live coverage of this special Memorial Day weekend afternoon edition of PBC on NBC starts at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT on NBC and goes until 6:00 pm. ET/3:00 p.m. PT when the action switches over to NBCSN from 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT until 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, www.AgganisArena.com and www.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AndreDirrell, @JamesDeGale1, @LouDiBella, @DropkickMurphys, @MurphysBoxing, @NBCSports and @AgganisArena and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports,www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/DropkickMurphys andwww.facebook.com/MurphysBoxing. Follow the conversation using #PremierBoxingChampions and #PBConNBC
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

JAVIER FORTUNA TAKES ON BRYAN VASQUEZ IN TELEVISED OPENER FOR PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SPIKE ON FRIDAY, MAY 29

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LIVE FROM BARCLAYS CENTER

BEGINNING AT 9:00 P.M. ET/6:00 P.M. PT

 

Plus, Undercard Action Featuring

Staten Island’s 2012 Olympian Marcus Browne Battling Cornelius White

& Brooklyn’s Heather Hardy Facing Noemi Bosques

 

BROOKLYN (May 21, 2015) – An electric showdown between Javier Fortuna (27-0-1, 20 KOs) and Bryan Vasquez (35-1, 18 KOs) will open up the Premier Boxing Champions on Spike telecast taking place Friday, May 29 at Barclays Center.

 

The 12-round junior lightweight bout between Fortuna and Vasquez will lead into the highly anticipated contest between former world champions Amir Khan and Chris Algieri. The Spike telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

Undercard action will also feature a slew of exciting local prospects competing in tough fights. 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne (14-0, 11 KOs) of Staten Island will take on the experienced Cornelius White (21-2, 16 KOs) in a 10 round light heavyweight bout while Heather “The Heat” Hardy (12-0, 2 KOs) faces Noemi Bosques (8-2-2) in eight rounds of featherweight action.

 

Also on the card are  Wesley Ferrer (8-0, 5 KOs) taking on Jose Miguel Castro (4-2, 2 KOs) in a six round lightweight attraction, Noel Murphy (1-0) battling Michael Black(0-1) in four rounds of welterweight action, Adam Kownacki (9-0, 9 KOs) squaring off against Ytalo Perea (5-1-1, 3 KOs) in an eight round heavyweight fight and the eight round cruiserweight battle between Keith Tapia (14-0, 9 KOs) and Leo Pla (5-4-2, 2 KOs).

 

Rounding out the action is the professional debut of Chris Colbert as he battles Marquis Pierce (1-5) in a four round featherweight bout and Luis Franco (12-1-1, 8 KOs) taking on Guillermo Sanchez (15-15-1, 6 KOs).

 

Tickets for the live event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Star Boxing, are priced at $250, $150, $75, and $45, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now.  Tickets are available at www.barclayscenter.com, www.ticketmaster.com and at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. For group tickets, please call 800-GROUP-BK.

 

An amateur standout who participated in the first Pan American Junior Championships in 2003, the 25-year-old Fortuna (27-0-1, 20 KOs) owns victories over Abner Cotto, Miguel Zamudio and Patrick Hyland. The undefeated rising star out of La Romana, Dominican Republic holds four knockouts over his last six fights as he looks to put on another great show on May 29.

 

The 27-year-old Vasquez (35-1, 18 KOs) is quickly becoming known as the preeminent pugilist from Costa Rica. The San Jose-native is the winner of his last five fights, including a stoppage of Sergio Thompson in Dec. 2014. Vasquez does not shy from any competition and will not back down when he faces his toughest test to date in Javier Fortuna on Spike TV.

 

As he approaches his record ninth appearance at Barclays Center, the 2012 U.S. Olympian Browne (13-0, 10 KOs) is becoming synonymous with boxing’s newest Mecca. Unbeaten as a professional, with six knockouts at Barclays Center, the Staten Island native has shown how much he loves fighting in his backyard, most recently scoring a sixth round stoppage over Aaron Pryor Jr. at Barclays Center in April. The 24-year-old faces the 34-year-old White (21-3, 16 KOs) from Houston.

 

Already the winner of the first-ever professional female boxing match at Barclays Center,Hardy (12-0, 2 KOs) returns on May 29 looking to bounce back from a frustrating no contest on April 11. Her previous victory at Barclays Center came in June 2014 when she won a split decision over Jackie Trivilino. Her most recent victory was a dominant unanimous decision against Elizabeth Anderson in December 2014. She looks to keep that momentum going on May 29 when she faces the 32-year-old Bosques out of Saint Petersburg, Florida.

 

An accomplished amateur out of Brooklyn, Ferrer owns a 2012 New York Amateur Boxing Championship and a 2013 New York Daily News Golden Gloves Championship. The 22-year-old has already won twice in 2015, scoring a second round TKO over Bryan Timmons in April. He prepares to face the 27-year-old Castro out of Carolina, Puerto Rico.

 

A 20-year-old prospect out of Woodlawn, New York, Murphy turned pro in November of last year with a unanimous decision over Anthony Smith. He returns to the ring on May 29to fight Black out of Las Vegas.

 

Originally from Lomza, Poland, but fighting out of Brooklyn, Kownacki is a 2006 and 2009 New York Daily News Golden Gloves Champion. The 26-year-old delivered a first round knockout in April over Randy Easton and returns to the ring in his adopted hometown looking for his 10th professional victory. He faces the 21-year-old 2012 Olympian Pereafrom Ecuador.

 

An undefeated prospect from Santurce, Puerto Rico, Tapia aims to build on his previous two outings, which both ended in first round knockouts.  The 24-year-old will battle with the 33-year-old Pla out of Wichita, Kansas.

 

Making his professional debut on May 29, Brooklyn’s own Colbert will face off against the 25-year-old Pierce out of Newark, New Jersey.

 

An accomplished amateur who represented Cuba in the 2004 Olympics, Franco won a Junior World Championship in 2003. The 33-year-old, who now fights out of Miami, will take on the 26-year-old Sanchez out of Buffalo, New York.

 

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For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, www.barclayscenter.com andwww.dbe1.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AmirKingKhan, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @SpikeTV and @BarclaysCenter and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/AmirKhanThePage,www.Facebook.com/ChrisAlgieri and www.Facebook.com/Spike. Follow the conversation using #PremierBoxingChampions and #BrooklynBoxing.
boxing, Team Fight to Walk

USNBC Champion Melson to speak to Lodi students!

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New York, NY (May 21, 2015) – Newly crowned WBC-USNBC 154 pound champion Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson will serve as a special guest speaker at Thomas Jefferson Middle School Friday, May 22 in Lodi, NJ.

 

A 2003 West Point graduate, Melson serves as an Army Reserve Officer, donates 100% of his purses to Teamfighttowalk.com and works a full time job. Between his aforementioned commitments along with training and making weight, Melson’s had to overcome many difficulties both personally and professionally. As a professional boxer, the native New Yorker’s built an impressive 15-1-1 record with 4 wins by knockout. On May 8, he scored the biggest win of his career, dominating Mike Ruiz over 10 rounds to capture the WBC-USNBC championship.

 

During his speech, Melson will discuss what it’s like to get knocked down by life when pursuing dreams, how to stay focused on goals, choices in life and the different paths life could take a person based on those choices.

 

“I’m very thankful for the opportunity,” said Melson. “There are many kids that need the proper guidance or fuel to light their fire. I believe everybody has the potential to make something of themselves. What it comes down to is making the right choices and staying on track even when life throws you a curveball. My goal is to relate to these students and inspire them to stay focused while making smart choices for their futures.”

 

For more information on Boyd Melson and Team Fight to Walk, visit Teamfighttowalk.com

boxing

Undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez returns Friday night in Corona, California

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Corona, CA (May 21, 2015)—Tomorrow night in Corona, California, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez returns to the ring for the third time in three months when he battles Miguel Tamayo in bout scheduled for six rounds at the Omega Products Outdoor Arena.
The bout will be on the undercard of the Boxcino finals where Lopez GH3 Promotions stablemate John Thompson takes on Brandon Adams in Jr. Middleweight championship bout.
“Training went really well.  I did a lot of sparring to get ready for Tamayo who is a southpaw,” said Lopez.
Lopez, who has a record of 11-0 with six knockouts will be fighting for the third time since March 13, is coming off of two consecutive 2nd round knockouts with the first being over undefeated Pablo Cruz that was nationally televised by ShoBox.
“I feel good about keeping active and having fights to keep me busy.  It is a good confidence boost to keep me active.”
In Tamayo, he is fighting a guy that has 30 fights under his belts (16-12-2, 14 KO’s) and has been in the ring with former world title challenger Cesar Seda, current world champion Gary Russell Jr and prospects Diego De La Hoya &McWilliams Arroyo.
“He is a veteran journeyman.  He fought guys like Russell and De La Hoya so it is a measuring stick and it will put me in a category that I should start getting more notice.  I don’t care what the others did with him.  I am just going out to do my thing and win the fight.”
Even though the 24 year-old Lopez is from San Antonio, Texas, he has California roots and did not grow up far from Corona.
“I am from California and not too far from Corona.  I fought here as an amateur and am excited to fight here as a professional.”
“I am excited GH3 is keeping me active and have been fighting every month.  This is exactly what I need to do.  I am going to go out there and do my thing.  I am excited and honored to be fighting on the Boxcino finals show and on the last ESPN Friday Night Fights card,”finished Lopez.
Said Lopez promoter Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions, “We are happy to have Adam fight on this card.  With John fighting in Boxcino, it gives Adam a chance to fight close to where he grew up and get him exposure on the West coast.”
GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Jr. Middleweight John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight Jerrell Harris,undefeated Super Bantamweight Qa’id Muhammad, undefeated lightweight Oscar Bonilla, Heavyweight Natu Visinia and Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell to the GH3 Promotions stable.