Category Archives: Bounce TV

Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

 Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round on Bounce Sets Series Highs, Reaches 1.5 Million Viewers

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ATLANTA (Feb. 14, 2017) – The latest Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round on Bounce on Fri. Feb. 10 was a knockout success.
The live telecast (9:00 p.m. – 12:13 a.m. ET) delivered series records of 501K Persons 2+ (+73% vs. the prior PBC – The Next Round event), 285K Men 2+ (+47%), 120K Persons 18-34 (+264%) and 201K P18-49 (+95%). Viewership peaked with over half a million total viewers 2+ (557K).
The live telecast also racked up impressive time-period gains of +56% in P2+, +83% in M2+, +64% in P18-34 and +37% in P18-49 and became the youngest-skewing PBC event ever on Bounce, with a median age of 44 years old. Among its target audience of African Americans, Bounce was a top three network in the delivery of AA18-49 among all ad-supported cable.
Bounce aired an immediate encore of Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round after the live event and the two telecasts combined reached 1.5 million viewers.
Nearly 10,000 fans packed the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio Friday night for hometown hero Robert Easter (19-0, 14 KOs) as he impressively defended his lightweight world title against Puerto Rico’s Luis Cruz (22-5-1, 16 KOs) in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round.  The 2012 Olympic alternate used his reach and power throughout the fight, knocking Cruz down three times en route to a unanimous decision victory.
In the exciting co-main event, three-time U.S. Olympian Rau’shee Warren(14-2, 4 KOs) of Cincinnati lost a split decision to Zhanat Zhakiyanov (27-1, 18 KOs) of Kazakhstan. The telecast kicked off with Cleveland-native Terrell Gausha (20-0, 9 KOs) earning a unanimous decision over Puerto Rico’s Luis Hernandez (15-4, 8 KOs) in a middleweight bout.
Bounce is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more.  Bounce has grown to be available in more than 94 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all the top AA television markets.  Among the founders of Bounce are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.  For more information visit BounceTV.com.
Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

ROBERT EASTER DEFENDS LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE AGAINST LUIS CRUZ IN HIS HOMETOWN OF TOLEDO IN THE MAIN EVENT OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS: THE NEXT ROUND ON BOUNCE TV

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Zhanat Zhakiyanov Wins Bantamweight World Championship Against Rau’Shee Warren in Co-Main Event
 
Terrell Gausha Earns Unanimous Decision Victory Over Puerto Rico’s Luis Hernandez
 
Click HERE For Photos (Photos Forthcoming)
Photo Credit: Leo Wilson Jr./Premier Boxing Champions
TOLEDO, OH (February 10) – Nearly 10,000 fans turned out for hometown hero Robert Easter (19-0, 14 KOs) as he impressively defended his lightweight world title against Puerto Rico’s Luis Cruz (22-5-1, 16 KOs) at the Huntington Center in Toledo, OH in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV. The 2012 Olympic alternate used his reach and power throughout the fight, knocking Cruz down three times en route to a unanimous decision victory.
Cruz’s best round came in the fifth as he turned up the action, giving Easter a pause more than once and pushed the champion toward the ropes. After that round, it was all Easter who threw flurries of punches, not always depending on his range, doing his best to pin Cruz back with powerful hooks and body shots. Easter wasn’t fazed by seeing the 10th round for the third time in his career as a big right hand sent Cruz to the canvas for the first knockdown of the fight. Cruz impressively rose to his feet, but Easter didn’t relent.
He continued his conquest and with 10 seconds to go in the 11th round, Cruz was saved by the bell after being knocked down again. Fighting to the finish, Easter gave the raucous crowd what they came for as he threw a big right hand that nearly ended the fight. Cruz did notably did not quit, but was no match for Easter as the judges scored the bout 119-106, 118-107, 117-108.
In the co-main event, three-time U.S. Olympian Rau’shee Warren (14-2, 4 KOs) came out strong from the opening bell as he utilized his hand speed and power by knocking Zhanat Zhakiyanov (27-1, 18 KOs) of Kazakhstan not once, but twice. Warren, who was defending his bantamweight title for the first time, could not finish the fight in the first round despite throwing a flurry of unanswered punches following the two knockdowns. The tables started to turn in favor of Zhakiyanov in the third round as he threw several consecutive uppercuts, pressuring Warren against the ropes. He threw two right hooks that knocked Warren to the canvas, but referee Gary Rosato ruled it a slip.
Trained and promoted by former unified world champion Ricky Hatton, Zhakiyanov applied pressure throughout the middle rounds, wearing Warren down. But the Cincinnati-native seemed to have gotten a second wind to kick-off the eighth round as he turned up the heat with one minute to go. Zhakiyanov continued to put pressure on Warren and use his strength. The fight was action packed from start to finish, but it was the Kazakh who earned the split decision victory with scores of 116-110, 115-111 for Zhakiyanov and 115-111 Warren.
The telecast kicked off with a middleweight bout between Cleveland-native Terrell Gausha(20-0, 9 KOs)and Puerto Rico’s Luis Hernandez (15-4, 8 KOs). Gausha established his jab midway through the first round with three straight right hands to the face of Hernandez. However, it was Hernandez who surprised Gausha with a huge overhand right that floored the 2012 Olympian. Gausha easily bounced back from the knock down and was able to get himself out of trouble and continued to show his power throughout.
Referee Jim Howe deducted a point from Hernandez after two low blows in the seventh round. Hernandez remained determined despite taking a lot of big shots, especially in the ninth round when Gausha was a few shots away from ending the fight. In the end, Gausha earned a unanimous decision with scores of 98-90 twice and 97-91.
FIGHTER & PROMOTER QUOTES:
Robert Easter Jr:
“It was very important for me to remain focused tonight but also have fun. My people came out in full force so I wanted to give them a show, a night to remember. I feel like I did that, even though I wish I could’ve given them the knockout.
“I admit, I was very surprised that Luis Cruz could take my punches like that and finish the fight. When I had him down and hurt (in round 10), I thought he was done. I give him credit. He came a long way and showed a lot of heart.
“I said before the fight and I’m going to keep saying it – I’m here to collect all them belts. I’m not gonna pretend to be that guy who doesn’t call out other fights. I’m calling out Mikey Garcia, Jorge Linares and Terry Flanagan. I want them to see what we were able to do here tonight, the crowd I pulled in. I’m a superstar on the rise and now it’s time for me to collect my prizes and bring these fights and all of the belts home to Toledo.
“Even in seeing my brother (Rau’Shee Warren) lose a fight we all thought he won, I couldn’t let that distract what I had to do in the ring. I hated that Rau’Shee had to go through that again – losing in the Olympics three times, not getting his win in the first fight with Juan Carlos Payano, then not getting his belt for months after winning it, and now losing it like that. He’s had it rough, but we’re a team and we have to pick each other up. That became my mission to rise for the sake of the team.
“Realistically I’d like to come back maybe May or June. It’s always hard work but I’m not cut or marked up. I want to stay active and get all the champions and best challengers out there. TBT – The Bunny Team is getting ready to take over.”
Luis Cruz:
“He’s a very strong fighter. I wanted to do more but he took away my energy late in the fight. The first knockdown took a lot of out me. I felt dizzy but it was important for me to finish the fight on my feet. I never stopped trying to win, but he a great champion and the best I’ve ever faced.
“I’m going to return home (in Puerto Rico) and enjoy time with my family. I need to rest and relax. After that, I’ll think about what’s next for my career.”
Zhanat Zhakiyanov:
“I knew at the end of the fight that I deserved to win, but because of where we were, we weren’t sure if the judges would give it to us. So that surprised us, but not that I won the fight. I was hurt early, but I outworked him in almost every round after that and was the stronger fighter in the end.
“The knockdowns shocked me, but (trainer and promoter, former two-division world champion) Ricky Hatton kept me level-headed, telling me the adjustments I had to make. Once I was able to get inside and force the action, I saw (Warren’s) energy level drop.
“We are grateful that he gave us the opportunity to fight for the world title. It’s an amazing feeling to win that belt. He feels like he won the fight and wants the rematch. We can definitely talk about doing that. I’ve fought everywhere in the world and don’t back down from any challenge.”
Ricky Hatton: 
“We were surprised when Zhanat went down like that in the beginning of the fight. I just wanted to remind him what he does better and what Rau’Shee is good at. He is never going to outbox him; he had to get in his chest, he had to mug him and make it a brawl. Zhanat did that very well and that’s how he won the fight.
“If we lost the fight, we would have been upset, but we’d know it wouldn’t have been a bad decision. I know that Warren is gutted, he feels like he won the fight and let’s be honest – it was the type of fight where no matter who won, the loser would have felt like he deserved to have his hand raised.
“Their styles make for a great fight. Why not do it again? Not just because it was close but because it was such a great action fight and it always will be.”
Rau’Shee Warren:
“Man, I won that fight. I knocked him down, I was landing the cleaner punches and making him miss. What it is, the judges are favoring aggressive fighters, even when they ain’t even landing.
“I went through the same thing with (Juan Carlos) Payano, losing the first fight that I should’ve won and then getting the decision in the rematch. So now I have to prove to these judges the second time what I should’ve got tonight. Of course I want that rematch. I want it next, I want my world titles back.
“Obviously you can always do more. We’re gonna go back, look at what we could’ve done differently and make sure the judges don’t take it from me no more.”
Terrell Gausha:
“The knockdown was legitimate, but that was (Hernandez’) only good moment in the fight. He caught me clean, but it happened to me before (versus William Waters earlier in his career). Just like I did back then, I immediately adjusted and controlled the rest of the fight.
“It felt good to get so much from the fans in Toledo and all my fans that came from Cleveland (Gausha’s hometown). It was a great night out here and I’d love to do it again whenever they’re ready to bring us back here or even in my hometown.
“I’m ready to return whenever my team says the next opportunity is there for me. Hopefully it’s as soon as possible. This is going to be a big year for me.”
Luis Hernandez:
“I had him hurt but I didn’t finish him. I didn’t throw enough punches to slow him down after I knocked him down. He deserved to win; I could have done better and will do better in the future. I hope PBC brings me back soon as I want to show I belong with the best.”
Adrien Broner:
“It was a great turnout tonight. This was the first big promotion for About Billions; it definitely won’t be the last. We got my fight next week in Cincinnati and we gonna keep coming back strong.”
Ravone Littlejohn, CEO of About Bilions Promotions:
“It was a bittersweet night for us, with Robert Easter looking like a superstar but then with Rau’Shee Warren not getting the victory. We wanted the win in both fights for the fans, but the judges saw what they saw in Rau’Shee’s fight.
“The crowd exceeded our expectations. We knew it would be a big turnout but when they opened up the entire venue and we saw nearly all the seats filled, it was a special feeling. Now we get to roll this over to Adrien’s fight next week and look forward to keep bringing big events to Ohio.”
 
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter@PremierBoxing, @RobertEaster_Jr, @RauSheeWarren, @BounceTV, and @Swanson_Comm and follow the conversation using #PBConBounce, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions andwww.Facebook.com/BounceTV. PBC on Bounce is sponsored by Corona: La Cerveza Mas Fina. Easter vs. Cruz was promoted by About Billions Promotions in association with TGB Promotions.
Bounce TV is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more.  Bounce TV has grown to be available in more than 94 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all of the top AA television markets.  Among the founders of Bounce TV are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.
For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.
Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Robert Easter vs. Luis Cruz Final Press Conference  Quotes & Photos

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Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce
Friday, February 10 from the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio
 
Click HERE for Photos from Leo Wilson/Premier Boxing Champions
 
TOLEDO, OH (February 8, 2017) – Undefeated lightweight world champion Robert Easterand Puerto Rican contender Luis Cruz hosted a final press conference before Easter makes his first world title defense as he headlines Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round onBounce at the Huntington Center in Easter’s hometown of Toledo, Ohio.
Televised coverage on Bounce begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features bantamweight world champion and three-time U.S. Olympian Rau’shee Warren battling once-beaten contenderZhanat Zhakiyanov.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $30, $50, $75, $100 and $200, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
ROBERT EASTER
“As everyone knows, I don’t like doing too much talking. I like to do my talking in the ring with these hands. February 10 is going to be an exciting night with a tremendous undercard filled with local talent.
“These guys up here and on this card are people I’ve grown up with. It means a lot for me to share the stage with them. I’m excited for them.
“I’m so grateful for all of the support I’ve received from fans here in Toledo. You keep me going forward and you keep me motivated.
“My dad and I have come a long way. It’s been a long road and we’re finally here, on top. I couldn’t have done this without him.
“Toledo has been showing up like crazy for my last two fights so it’s got me feeling very comfortable and confident.
“I have a very tough fighter in front of me. Cruz is going to come to fight and put on a show, but I’m prepared to deliver a knockout.
“I can’t wait to get into the ring for this fight. This is something I’ve been waiting on for years. I’m a world champion just like I knew I always would be.
“Having Adrien Broner here means a lot. He is a big brother to me. He showed me the ropes and he’s somebody I always looked up to.
“Being able to bring this title back home to Toledo is really exciting. I hope you all are as excited as I am, because on February 10 you’re going to see fireworks. It’s going to be short.”
LUIS CRUZ
“I’m very thankful to everyone who helped me earn this opportunity. I’ve been training really hard and I’m planning on taking full advantage of this.
“I hope that all the people who come out on Friday are ready to see a great fight. I’m going to leave it all in the ring.
“I know that everything is up against me going to his hometown, but it is my dream to fight for a world title and I will give it everything I have.”
RAU’SHEE WARREN
“This is a very important fight for me. I’m a world champion but I have a lot more work to do. I’m looking to grab more titles.
“My first obstacle is taking care of this mandatory. After I get him out of the way I’ll be ready put my titles up against other champions.
“I have to be sharp in this fight. I have to stick with my game plan because this guy is coming to take my title.
“My opponent is a pressure fighter. He’s trying to come forward. With the abilities that I have, I’m going to try to make it look easy.”
ADRIEN BRONER, Former-Four Division World Champion
“I have on my promoter hat today for my first major card and I’m really excited about it. Being able to promote a card like this with two world championship fights is amazing, especially because of the fighters on this card.
“These fighters are guys that I’ve been in the gym sacrificing with. These guys came from water and cornflakes just like I did. It’s going to be a real surreal moment seeing them up in that ring.
“I could tell stories about me, Robert and Rau’shee all day. Now we’re all on the same stage as champions, representing this sport. I’m excited to give the fans of Toledo a great show.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter@PremierBoxing, @RobertEaster_Jr, @RauSheeWarren, @BounceTV, and @Swanson_Comm and follow the conversation using #PBConBounce, become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV. PBC on Bounce is sponsored by Corona: La Cerveza Mas Fina.
Bounce TV is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more.  Bounce TV has grown to be available in more than 94 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all of the top AA television markets.  Among the founders of Bounce TV are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.
For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.
 
Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Undefeated 2012 U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha Battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Hernandez & 2012 U.S. Olympian Jamel Herring Takes On Armenia’s Art Hovhannisyan in Undercard Action Friday, February 10 from the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio

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Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce
Headlined by Lightweight World Champion Robert Easter Defending Against Puerto Rican Contender Luis Cruz
 
TOLEDO, OH (February 8, 2017) – Unbeaten contender and Cleveland-native Terrell Gausha will face Puerto Rico’s Luis Hernandez while lightweight contender Jamel Herring enters the ring against Armenia’s Art Hovhannisyan in undercard action on Friday, February 10 from the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio.
The event is headlined by unbeaten lightweight world champion Robert Easter returning to his hometown for his first world title defense as he takes on Puerto Rico’s Luis Cruz in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce.
Televised coverage on Bounce begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features bantamweight world champion and three-time U.S. Olympian Rau’shee Warren battling once-beaten contenderZhanat Zhakiyanov.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $30, $50, $75, $100 and $200, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Gausha (19-0, 9 KOs) and Hernandez (15-3, 8 KOs) will compete in a 10-round middleweight bout while Herring (15-1, 8 KOs) meets Hovhannisyan (17-3, 9 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight fight.
Additional action features a pair of unbeaten prospects as Raynell Williams (11-0, 5 KOs) battles Justin Savi (29-9, 19 KOs) in a six-round junior lightweight bout while Tyler McCreary (12-0, 6 KOs) takes on Jonathan Perez (36-16, 28 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight attraction.
Rounding out the night of action is heavyweight Devin Vargas (18-4, 7 KOs) in a six-round bout against Tim Washington (6-4, 6 KOs), unbeaten lightweight Albert Bell (6-0, 2 KOs) against James Lester (11-11, 4 KOs) in a six-round bout and Adrian Wilson (3-1, 2 KOs) against unbeaten Rashad Scott (3-0, 1 KOs) in four-rounds of welterweight action.
The 29-year-old Gausha is undefeated since turning pro in 2012 after his exceptional amateur career that saw him win a U.S. National Amateur championship in addition to his Olympic experience. Gausha has picked up six victories in the last two years against increasingly experienced competition including triumphs over Orlando Lora and Steven Martinez in 2016. He looks to continue his march towards a world title when he takes on the Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico-native Hernandez who won five times in 2016.
Another amateur standout who won an Amateur National Championship the same year as his Olympic run, Herring fights out of Cincinnati and is originally from Coram, New York. The 31-year-old won his first 15 pro fights including triumphs over Luis Eduardo Florez, Yakubu Amidu and Hector Velasquez. A former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Herring will face the experienced contender Hovhannisyan who is originally from Armenia but trains now out of Glendale, California.
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For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter@PremierBoxing, @RobertEaster_Jr, @RauSheeWarren, @BounceTV, and @Swanson_Comm and follow the conversation using #PBConBounce, become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV. PBC on Bounce is sponsored by Corona: La Cerveza Mas Fina.
Bounce is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more.  Bounce has grown to be available in more than 94 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all of the top AA television markets.  Among the founders of Bounce are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.
For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.
Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Unbeaten Lightweight World Champion Robert Easter Returns Home to Defend Title Against Puerto Rican Contender  Luis Cruz Friday, February 10 In Main Event of  Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV from  the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio

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Plus! Bantamweight World Champion Rau’shee Warren Takes On
Once-Beaten Challenger Zhanat Zhakiyanov in Co-Main Event
 
Tickets on Sale Tomorrow, December 23!
 
TOLEDO, OH (December 22, 2016) – Unbeaten lightweight world champion Robert Easter(18-0, 14 KOs) will return to his hometown of Toledo, Ohio to defend his title against hard-hitting Puerto Rican Luis Cruz (22-4-1, 16 KOs) Friday, February 10 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV live from the Huntington Center.
Televised coverage on Bounce TV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features bantamweight world champion and three-time U.S. Olympian Rau’shee Warren (14-1, 4 KOs) battling once-beaten contender Zhanat Zhakiyanov (26-1, 18 KOs).
“Being able to headline a big fight in my hometown after winning a championship is a dream come true,” said Easter. “My first dream was to win the world title and now I get to defend it in front of my people. I had great fan support at my last fight in Pennsylvania and I know everybody is even more excited to see me at home. A lot of people felt involved in helping me win that world title, and now we get to have a homecoming celebration. This is going to be big for the city. I can’t wait to showcase my skills.”
“This is a great opportunity for me and I’m planning on putting on my best performance,” said Cruz. “I am going to fight for my home of Puerto Rico and become another world champion from the island. I know that Easter is a good fighter and he will have the fan support, but I am already training harder than I ever have. This is going to be an exciting fight, but I don’t expect it to go the distance.”
“I’m ready to get back in the ring,” said Warren. “I’m happy the fight is three days before my birthday because defending my title for the first time and winning will be the best birthday present. We’ve been checking out Zhakiyanov. I think it’s going to be a good show because he definitely isn’t a slouch. I’m just going to enjoy being a champion, defending my title and showing what I’m capable of.”
“I’m very happy to be fighting in the U.S. with a chance to become a world champion,” said Zhakiyanov. “I want to thank Warren for taking this fight, but it will be a big mistake. I’m coming to win and win impressively. This is going to be my statement that I am one of the best fighters in this division.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions, are priced at $30, $50, $75, $100 and $200, and are on sale Friday, December 23. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Toledo’s Easter and Cincinnati’s Warren will both look to show the Ohio crowd the skills that have made them world champions and potential big stars in the sport. Both fighters are making their first world title defenses and will do so in the friendly confines of the Buckeye State.
An accomplished amateur who was a 2012 U.S. Olympic alternate, the 25-year-old Easter picked up five-straight victories dating back to the beginning of 2015 before earning his world title opportunity against Richard Commey in September. Easter was successful in holding off the unbeaten Commey as he was able to earn a split-decision victory in a memorable fight. Now, Easter will step into the ring as the fighting pride of his hometown for the first time, with his sights set on an impressive performance.
Representing Las Piedras, Puerto Rico, Cruz’s last fight saw him in an entertaining back-and-forth scrap with lightweight contender Ivan Redkach in April that saw both men hit the canvas on their way to a narrow split draw. Cruz owns victories over Martin Honorio, Antonio Davis and Hevinson Herrera in a career that saw the fighter win his first 19 professional bouts.
A three-time Olympian, Warren competed for the U.S. in the 2004, 2008 and 2012 games before turning pro. The 29-year-old picked up victories over veterans Jose Luis Araiza, Javier Gallo, German Meraz and Jhon Alberto Molina leading up to his first world title shot in 2015. After dropping a controversial split-decision in their first fight, Warren defeated Juan Carlos Payano by majority decision in the rematch in June and became the first member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team to win a world title.
Fighting out of Petropavl, Kazakhstan, Zhakiyanov has won his last 21 fights since his only professional loss in 2008. Most recently he picked up an interim bantamweight title via a decision victory in 2015 over once-beaten Yonfrez Parejo. No stranger to fighting on the road, Zhakiyanov’s U.S. debut on February 10 will mark the 12th country that he has fought in as a professional.
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For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter@PremierBoxing, @RobertEaster_Jr, @RauSheeWarren, @BounceTV, and @Swanson_Comm and follow the conversation using #PBConBounce, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions andwww.Facebook.com/BounceTV. PBC on Bounce is sponsored by Corona: La Cerveza Mas Fina.
Bounce TV is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more.  Bounce TV has grown to be available in more than 93.5 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all of the top AA television markets.  Among the founders of Bounce TV are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.
For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.
Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Roundon Bounce TV Draws 1.3 Million Viewers Friday Night Sept. 16

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ATLANTA (Sept. 20, 2016) – The first-ever Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round on Bounce TV to take place in Las Vegas hit the jackpot.
Bounce TV premiered Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Roundon Fri. Sept. 16 at 9:00 p.m. ET live from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, with a premiere play for the west coast immediately following. The two airings combined to reach 1.3 million viewers 2+.
 
Male viewing was up by +19% in Men 25-54 and +10% in M18-49 versus the previous PBC on Bounce event in June. African-American Men also watched in big numbers with the fights increasing in the delivery of AA M25-54 by +50% and 18-49 by +34%. 
Las Vegas’s own Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith (29-8, 12 KOs) defeated Frank “Notorious” Galarza of New York (17-2-2, 11 KOs) via majority decision in the main event. Augusta, Georgia’s Justin DeLoach’s (16-1, 8 KOs) superior boxing ability and effective counterpunching made the difference in the co-main event, as he won a unanimous decision over Detroit’s Domonique Dolton (17-1-1, 9 KOs).  The opening bout of the telecast saw Jose Cayetano (20-4, 9 KOs) kick off Mexican Independence Day Weekend with a lot to celebrate. The Tijuana native defeated 25-year-old Alexis Santiago (21-3-1, 8 KOs) via unanimous decision, ending the Phoenix-native’s 10-fight win streak.
Bounce TV (@BounceTV) is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more.  Bounce TV has grown to be available in more than 94 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all of the top AA television markets.  Among the founders of Bounce TV are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.
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Source: Nielsen, L+SD, 9/16/16, 9-11:50pm, P4Ws: 8/19/16-9/9/16, all reach stats based on P2+, 1 Min Qualifier
Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Ishe Smith Scores Majority Decision Over Frank Galarza In The Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce Main Event From The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

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Justin DeLoach Scores Unanimous Decision Over Domonique Dolton
 
Jose Cayetano Defeats Alexis Santiago Via Unanimous Decision In Televised Opener
 
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Photo Credit: Ryan Greene/Premier Boxing Champions
 
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Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp/Mayweather Promotions
 
Las Vegas (Sept. 16) – The first Las Vegas born world champion, Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith (29-8, 12 KOs) defeated Frank “Notorious” Galarza (17-2-2, 11 KOs) via majority decision in his hometown from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC): The Next Round on Bounce TV.
“I had to dig deep. This was the first time in a very long time I had to dig deep,” said Smith of his victory. “They kept telling me in my corner that its was close. He came to win, but in the end I got the victory.”
Smith and Galarza used the first round to feel each other out, but the action picked up in the second as Smith threw a straight right hand that dropped Galarza to the canvas.
“He caught me off balance and it turned out to be a knockdown. I think that made the difference in the whole fight honestly.”
Galarza came back swinging in the fourth, pressing Smith against the ropes with a tight combination of punches. Smith controlled the fifth round throwing hard blows to the body of Galarza followed by a hard left hook to end the round. The tides turned in the seventh round as Galarza pinned Smith against the ropes with a flurry of body punches. But it was the tenth and final round that sealed a win for Smith as he land punch after punch. Judges saw the bout 95-95, 96-93 and 95-94.
“Young guys feel like I’m old. They like to apply pressure, but I set him up with the traps. I got comfortable in the middle rounds he turned it up a gear and applied pressure I wasn’t ready for,” continued Smith. “It took me a round or two to get adjusted, once I got adjusted I thought I did real well and was able to close the show. I was surprised in the 95-95 and 95-94, I was thinking wow if I didn’t get that knockdown it may have swayed his way for the victory.
“Training with the best like Floyd, Bernard Hopkins, it has allowed me to learn. I have learned so much from the greatest fighter in the world, and pick up something from each of them. I am thankful I was able to pick up a lot along the way in my career.”
Galarza felt as though he had to do much more to get the win.
“I’m in his hometown, Vegas, its his promotion. Those little slip ups were going to cost me the fight. I had to be active, be in his chest, stay busy. There were moments where I was doing that, but I let some of it go at times.
“I think the knockdown made me want to press on the gas and start pushing. He is awkward. He’s wide. He’s all over the place and I didn’t want to get hit with any silly punches.
“It happens. It’s one of those things where we have to go back to the drawing board and we will be back at it again.”
The co-main event featured a pair of super welterweight prospects that produced exciting two-way action from the first bell. Detroit’s Domonique Dolton (17-1-1, 9 KOs) stalked Justin Deloach around the ring, but it was Augusta, Georgia’s Justin DeLoach’s (16-1, 8 KOs) superior boxing ability and effective counterpunching that made the difference. Midway through the fight, a wide cut opened on the bridge of Dolton’s nose, providing an extra target for DeLoach.
“The cut was from a prior fight, and I just wanted to get back in the ring as soon as possible,” said Dolton. “Allowing him to get so many shots in, opened the cut. I can’t blame anyone but myself in this fight.”
“I am disappointed in my performance; I didn’t fight a smart fight. I fought his fight, I wasn’t using my mind in this fight. I was looking for that big shot. Trying to set up a shot the whole fight that I lost sight and didn’t fight smart. I should have been using my jab more, when I had the opportunity to go in on him, I didn’t take it like I should have. Overall I just need to continue what Im doing and get back to my training.
Despite the unanimous decision win where the judges scored the bout 96-94, 98-92 and 99-91, DeLoach also was unimpressed with his own performance.
“I made it way tougher for myself than I should have. I should have used my legs more and listened to my corner,” said DeLoach. “I am not satisfied with my performance even though I got the W.I didn’t stay focused enough. Domonique is a tough opponent and I should have stuck to the game plan.
“I’m not going to call out any names because I’m just not happy with my performance,” continued DeLoach. “I am going to be back in the gym on Monday and work on the things I need to fix before thinking about fighting again.”
The opening bout of the telecast saw Jose Cayetano (20-4, 9 KOs) kick off Mexican Independence Day Weekend with a lot to celebrate. The Tijuana native defeated 25-year-old Alexis Santiago (21-3-1, 8 KOs) via unanimous decision, ending the Phoenix-native’s 10-fight win streak. The 10-round super bantamweight bout started slow, but the action picked up in the fifth when Cayetano connected with a sharp right hook, causing Santiago to buckle, but not fall.
At the start of the bell in the seventh round, Santiago forced Cayetano against the ropes, throwing a flurry of punches. Santiago landed a hard right hook mid-way through the ninth round, causing the largely pro-Santiago crowd to cheer. The fight finished strong with both fighters swinging for the fences, exchanging hard blows bringing the crowd to their feet. 97-93, 96-94 2X.
“Santiago started out strong but as the rounds went on, he got less and less so,” said Cayetano. “The fifth round was when I knew I really had him and it continued from there. Even though he landed some shots, he never hurt me.
“I want to fight Leo Santa Cruz in a rematch next. That is the fight I really want. Two Mexican warriors at it again.”
“This was the worst performance of my career,” said Santiago. “I could have done everything better. I wasn’t able to find myself during the fight. I usually am able to, but this time it was hard for me.”
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Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Domonique Dolton & Justin DeLoach Training Camp Notes

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Super Welterweights Square-Off Friday, Sept. 16 in Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV Action From The Chelsea Inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas – 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
LAS VEGAS (September 12, 2016) – Rising contenders Domonique Dolton and Justin DeLoach are set to meet in a pivotal matchup of highly regarded young fighters that serves as the co-main event of Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV Friday, Sept. 16 from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Televised coverage on Bounce TV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by former world champion Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith battling once beaten contender Frank “Notorious” Galarza.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, start at $29 and are on sale now. Tickets are available online at: www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 and www.ticketmaster.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say about training camp, their 10-round showdown and more:
How has training camp gone for this fight?
 
Domonique Dolton: “Training has been going well. My strategy has been to stick to conditioning. I swim twice a week and that’s something new that’s been added to my routine. It’s helped a lot with conditioning. I have a new coach, Theotrice Chambers, and we have great chemistry and the results will show come fight night.”
Justin DeLoach: “Training camp has been amazing. It’s really been a great camp. We’re doing all the physical and mental things we have to do for this fight. I’m keeping my head in the game and I’m focused. This team has been with me since the amateur days.”
What do you think of your opponent and how do you see this fight going stylistically?
 
DD: “From what I saw, he looks like a tough guy. We are not on the same level though. He’s fought a couple of undefeated guys, but it doesn’t compare to my level of fighting. My skills will speak for me. I put in the hard work. I won’t be thinking about the crowd; it will be tunnel vision for me in the ring. My style is a boxer-puncher and I’m willing to get inside if I have to. I can adapt and adjust in the ring and that’s my advantage over him.”
JD: “This fight is not going all night. I will break him down early in the fight. I have been studying him and I know Domonique better than he knows himself.”
What kind of problems does your opponent pose?
 
DD: “I don’t see any problems. I’m been in the ring with all types of guys. I’ve gone toe-to-toe with a lot of guys and I’ve seen a lot. I have the experience advantage. I have what it takes and I’m just on a different level than Justin DeLoach.”
JD: “I don’t feel like there are any problems going into this one. I am my biggest challenge. The only person who can beat me, is me. He’s just another body in the ring. I’m going to outthink him in there. I have been keeping my mind right and that’s going to help me out on fight night.”
What are you looking for in the future if you can get the win on September 16?
 
DD: “This will probably be my last fight in the division. I will go down and pursue my career at 147-pounds. I believe I am a better and more natural fighter at 147-pounds. I have my names on guys at that weight, but for now I just want to make a name for myself. I’m looking to get a win and become a better fighter.”
JD: “I don’t feel the need to call anybody out. But if you have a belt, then I’m coming for you. It goes without saying that I want a title shot and I think I’m ready.”
Why do you believe you’ll be victorious on fight night?
 
DD: “I am going to win this fight. My confidence is sky high from the team I have been working with. I’m happy with the work I’ve been putting in. I have been training really hard and I believe in my ability. I have what it takes to win. I’m ready to put on a show for my family. I’m motivated by the negativity so the people against me will see what I bring come fight night.”
JD: “I feel like I’m bringing peace into this fight. I have nothing to prove and I’m trying to make a statement. He has more to lose than I do. I can only be Justin DeLoach. I am in this sport to challenge myself. The loss turned me into a better fighter. It humbled me and took a lot of pressure off of my shoulders. I am better than I’ve ever been before.”
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For more information visit: www.premierboxingchampions.comand www.mayweatherpromotions.com. For tickets, visit: www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BounceTV, @MayweatherPromo  and @Swanson_Comm , become a fan on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV. Follow the conversation using #PBConBounce.
Bounce TV, boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Exciting Contender Alexis Santiago Takes On Mexico’s Jose Cayetano Friday, Sept. 16 in Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV Action From The Chelsea Inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas – 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

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Plus! J’Leon Love vs. Dashon Johnson & Sharif Bogere vs. Luis Florez as Part of Exciting Undercard Lineup
 
LAS VEGAS (September 8, 2016) – Super bantamweight contender Alexis “Beaver” Santiago (21-3-1, 8 KOs) will face Mexico’s Jose Cayetano (19-4, 9 KOs) in a 10-round showdown featured on Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV Friday, Sept. 16 from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
The main event on Bounce TV will feature former world champion Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith battling once beaten contender Frank “Notorious” Galarza. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features a super welterweight showdown between Domonique Dolton and Justin DeLoach.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, start at $29 and are on sale now. Tickets are available online at: www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 and www.ticketmaster.com.
Additional undercard action features super middleweight contender J’Leon Love (22-1, 12 KOs) battling Dashon Johnson (21-19-3, 6 KOs) in a 10-round showdown and exciting contender Sharif “The Lion” Bogere (28-1, 19 KOs) taking on Colombia’sLuis Florez (21-4, 17 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight contest.
The stacked night of exciting matchups will feature light heavyweight Lionell Thompson (16-4, 10 KOs) in an eight-round bout against Chicago’s Donovan George (25-5-2, 22 KOs) plus super middleweight Lanell “KO” Bellows (16-1-1, 9 KOs) battling Mexico’s Fernando Castenada (18-10, 12 KOs) in an eight-round contest and undefeated Juan Heraldez (10-0, 7 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Reyes Sanchez (28-8-2, 15 KOs) in eight-rounds of welterweight action.
Rounding out the night is Memphis-born prospect Ladarius Miller (10-1, 2 KOs) against unbeaten Maynard Allison (5-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight bout and undefeated Sanjarbek Rakhmanov (4-0-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round welterweight contest.
A pro since 2009, the 25-year-old Santiago is unbeaten in his last ten bouts and is coming off of a victory over Erik Ruiz in February. The Phoenix-native defeated Gustavo Molina, Javier Gallo and Antonio Tostado Garcia in 2015 and has not taken a loss since 2012. His most impressive triumphs came over once-beaten fighters Alex Rangel and Hanzel Martinez, both of whom he beat in 10-round bouts.  He is set to take on the 29-year-old Cayetano who has fought professionally since 2009. Fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico, Cayetano lost a decision to Leo Santa Cruz in 2015 but has won his last two fights.
A once-beaten contender at 168-pounds, the 28-year-old Love bounced back from his lone defeat to defeat Scott Sigmon, Jason Escalera and Marcus Upshaw in 2015 before stopping Michael Gbenga in April to begin his 2016. The Inkster, Michigan native owns wins over Marco Antonio Periban, Derrick Findley and Lajuan Simon on his way to contender status. He takes on the exciting 28-year-old contender Johnson out of Escondido, California. He enters this fight coming off of back-to-back victories over Decarlo Perez and Victor Palacios.
A winner of his first 23 pro fights, Bogere fights out of Las Vegas while proudly representing his native Uganda. The 27-year-old has picked up up victories over Raymundo Beltran, Francisco Contreras and Manuel Levya across his career that dates back to 2008. He enters this bout on a five-fight winning streak and will take on the 29-year-old Florez out of Magangue, Colombia, who made his U.S. debut in February of this year.
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For more information visit: www.premierboxingchampions.comand www.mayweatherpromotions.com. For tickets, visit: www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BounceTV, @MayweatherPromo  and @Swanson_Comm , become a fan on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV. Follow the conversation using #PBConBounce.
Bounce TV, boxing, Las Vegas, Premier Boxing Champions

Frank Galarza Camp Notes   Once-Beaten Contender Battles Former World Champion Ishe Smith in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV

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Friday, Sept. 16 From The Chelsea inside
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas – 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m.PT
 
LAS VEGAS (Sept. 6, 2016) – Brooklyn-born contender Frank “Notorious” Galarza has been the embodiment of a redemption story his whole life and he will look to keep that theme going when he returns from his first pro loss to take on former world champion Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce TV Friday, Sept. 16 from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Televised coverage begins on Bounce TV at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features a super welterweight showdown between Domonique Dolton (17-0-1, 9 KOs)and Justin DeLoach (15-1, 8 KOs).
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, start at $29 and are on sale now. Tickets areavailable online at: www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 and www.ticketmaster.com.
After being defeated by unbeaten Jarret Hurd in November 2015, Galarza is determined to reclaim his spot as a contender in the 154-pound division. Training out of the Flatbush Cops and Kids Boxing Gym in Brooklyn with longtime trainer Nirmal Lorick, Galarza has his sights set on the top of the super welterweight division.
Here is what Galarza had to say about training camp, his main event showdown, the 154-pound division and more:
What kind of problems does Ishe Smith propose and what does a victory over him do for you?
 
FG: “I don’t anticipate having any problems with Ishe. I spar the best guys in the world and with guys who have a lot more experience than I do. I’m going to go in, do my job and make adjustments as needed.
“Beating Ishe puts me exactly where I need to be. I took my first loss in Las Vegas and I wasn’t on my A-game. Fighting Ishe puts me right back after the loss. I constantly put myself to the test with top guys. Ishe is someone in my path who at this point, is in my way.”
What’s your mentality following the loss in your last fight?
 
FG: “I have lost so much in my life, so I see this loss as just a number. Boxing has everyone fooled that we need to be undefeated to be a top contender or to be great. Some of the greatest fighters have suffered losses. I am looking to be legendary and continue to fight great guys. I’m going to put my record on the line and challenge myself.
“I don’t have a deep boxing background, so I’m learning on the job. I am able to overcome every obstacle. This fight isn’t about the money, this fight and my career is for me. I want to challenge myself.”
Who do you see as the top fighters in the 154-pound division?
FG: “The Charlo Brothers, Demetrius Andrade, Julian Williams and Erislandy Lara are the top of the division in my mind. There are a lot of good fighters in this division. At this point now, the other guys need to go, and that’s where I come into play. Someone like Ishe is an older guy and he needs to give it up and get out of the way for hungry guys like me and the rest of us. People want to see guys like us.”
Who would you like to matchup with, if you can defeat Ishe Smith?
 
FG: “I’ll face anybody. I’m not trying to fluff my record. I come off a tough loss and I’m looking to beat a former world champion. Give me the best fight and the top guys. Give me one of the Charlo brothers and I’ll fight for one of their titles. Put me in with any of these guys and I will put them to the test, if not beat them.
“It’s a drive I have in me, especially lately, where I feel like I’ve been overlooked. It upsets me to be underestimated. I never turn down a fight. I have to be fearless in order to make it where I need to go. I am not a mediocre fighter. There’s a reason they call me the ‘Brooklyn Rocky.’ I’ve been through adversity and Ishe is in for a rude awakening. The boxing industry has me completely underestimated and at the end of the day, may the best man win.”
Talk about your work outside of the ring and how you strive to inspire kids who grew up in similar situations to yourself:
 
FG: “I have a non-profit called Youth Fighting Forward. I teach them that no matter what you go through, you can be whoever you want to be I came from nothing and I lost my parents at a young age. I don’t use that as an excuse. I refuse to be a statistic. I want to give the kids back that inspiration.
“Whatever it is you love to do; you are more than capable of doing it. It is in your hands to be a success story. You are not where you came from. We have the ability to change lives. My focus is to help kids growing up who are surrounded by negativity to see a positive. I put my body to the limits and when I don’t want to work out, I push through that. I want to show the kids that they have to have discipline to get through it and one day, I will be a world champion.”
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For more information visit: www.premierboxingchampions.comand www.mayweatherpromotions.com. For tickets, visit:www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com.  Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BounceTV, @MayweatherPromo  and @Swanson_Comm , become a fan on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV. Follow the conversation using #PBConBounce. PBC on Bounce is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.