Unbeaten Two-Time World Champion David Benavídez and Longtime Contender José Benavídez Preview Respective Showdowns Taking Place Saturday, November 13 Live on SHOWTIME® fromFootprint Center in Phoenix in a Premier Boxing Champions Event Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CALIF. (October 26, 2021) – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez and his older brother, longtime contender José Benavídez, previewed their respective showdowns before they enter in the ring in their hometown of Phoenix, Ariz. on Saturday, November 13 live on SHOWTIME in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center.
David will battle former champion José Uzcátegui in a super middleweight title eliminator bout that headlines the event, while José faces Argentina’s Francisco Emanuel Torres in the 10-round co-main event. The Benavídez brothers have their sights set on impressing their hometown fans in long-awaited homecoming bouts November 13, which will mark their first time entering the ring in Phoenix since 2015.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.
Here is what the Benavídez brothers, plus their father and trainer Jose Benavídez Sr., had to say from training camp in North Hollywood, California:
DAVID BENAVÍDEZ
“Everything has been amazing in camp. We’re sparring 12-13 rounds and running six or seven miles a day. I’ve worked very hard and I can’t wait to put on a show November 13.
“Uzcátegui is a tough competitor and he was a former world champion, so I have to give him that respect. There are big fights on the horizon for me, so I have to prepare accordingly for Uzcátegui.
“I feel like I’m the better fighter. I have the better skills, more power, more speed and I’m hungrier too. It’s going to be a great night for my team. I feel like I’m going to go in there and get the knockout victory.
“A lot of people in Phoenix are excited for this one. I’m excited to go back. The timing is perfect. For me, this is the biggest fight of my career. I’m ready for anything that comes my way November 13.
“We’re just focused on Uzcátegui, but of course there are bigger fights for me in the future. If I win this fight, I’m in the number one spot for whoever wins between Canelo Alvarez and Caleb Plant.
“Facing Canelo would be a huge fight in the super middleweight division, but I have to go out there on November 13 and get this victory first.
“Right now, with the level I’m at, the fighters that I’m seeking to fight are champions and former champions. Whether it’s Canelo, Plant or Jermall Charlo, I feel like we’re all going to end up facing each other at some point.
“Canelo vs. Plant is a great fight for the division. It’s a fight where both guys have a lot to prove. Those kinds of fights tend to bring the best out of everybody. There’s a lot of pressure and a lot of glory on the line, so I feel like they’re going to be the best they’ve ever been. I’m going to be ready for the winner next.
“I’ve been a pro for eight years already. I just want the biggest fights out there. This is the level I’ve been working to get to for a long time, and we’re finally here at this moment. I want to fight the best of the best and prove myself. I want to show that I’m the best super middleweight in the world.
“Uzcátegui is strong and he has a will to win, but I just believe that I have the better skill set. These are the types of fighters that I need to test myself against. It’s definitely going to be a war, but I’m going to come out on top.”
JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ
“It feels great to be on this card with my brother, and to be making my comeback in my hometown. There’s going to be a lot of support for me. It’s a great feeling and I’m looking forward to giving my fans a great outcome.
“I had to take a break, but now I have a different kind of mindset. I just want to keep fighting, training and staying ready. I want to get to the top of the super welterweight division.
“The delay has just given me more time to train, more time to get stronger and more time to get ready. I’ve just been making the most of it.
“I’m going to be an animal on fight night. I’m coming for everything. I’m hungry. I’ve been out of the ring for years, so I need to make a statement. That’s what I’m looking to do November 13.
“We have a great team here. We all came from nothing and we all started this journey at the same time. We learned day by day and that’s what makes our bond strong. Without my team, I wouldn’t be boxing.
“I have a lot of friends, family and fans who are coming out for my return. That’s really what’s motivating me. I’m happy that people still want to see me in the ring.
“I don’t know too much about my opponent, and I honestly don’t care, because I’m taking him down. No matter who they put in front of me, good luck to them.
“After my fight, which I’m going to end early, I’m going to be ready to walk out with my brother and support him for his fight.
“I’ve been spending a lot of time with my wife and my two daughters during this time off because there were so many things I wasn’t able to be around for earlier in my career. It’s been amazing but I’m excited to be back. I still have a lot to prove.”
JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ SR., David and José’s Father and Trainer
“David is looking very strong right now. With every fight he gets stronger and stronger and matures more and more. He’s just getting his man strength, so I think everyone is going to see something spectacular November 13.
“Words can’t even describe how it feels to be coming back to Phoenix training my two sons for this big show. It’s something I’ve only dreamed of. Now it’s happening, and we’re super excited.
“I always have to continue adjusting and growing as a trainer. I have to understand that these are grown men now. I had to stop thinking of them as my little kids. I’m always trying to learn more so that I can support their careers as best I can.
“I’m super proud of Jose for getting to this point after his injury. Everything he does now is just extra, it’s up to him to stay focused and work hard. He’s very strong both physically and mentally and that’s why I never gave up on him.
“We’ve been dedicating ourselves and sacrificing every day so that we can give our people in Phoenix a really good show. They’re going to get an exciting night and I can’t wait.”
SALEM, Mass. (October 25, 2021) — This past August in Portland, Maine, Reyes Boxing launched “Down & Dirty,” the only ongoing professional boxing series in New England, and it will make its Massachusetts debut this Friday night (Oct. 29) at Melrose Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts.
The second installment of “Down & Dirty,” presented by Reyes Boxing, will be headlined this Friday evening by Colombian Welterweight Champion Jeovanis “Meque” Barraza (22-1, 15 KOs) making his United States debut against Jorge “Tomatito” Martin Garcia (13-7-1, 6 KOs) in the 8-round main event between for the vacant ABF Continental Americas Super Welterweight Championship.
Reyes was a standout amateur boxer in Massachusetts, finishing with a 60-4 record, when he gave up boxing and enrolled in Norwich University, where he graduated in 2001 majoring in business and economics. He then spent six years as a U.S. Marine in military intelligence. After his military discharge, Reyes became a certified fitness and personal trainer, opening Reyes Boxing Club 2 ½ years ago in Salem, Massachusetts.
“I started managing some fighters I was training,” Reyes explained, “but realized about 1 ½ years ago that I needed to be a promoter to put fighters I trained on cards. ‘Down & Dirty’ is boxing, at least to me, and I wanted to let people know where we are at and what we’re doing. “I feel New England has a big talent pool, but over the years it has dwindled. But it’s still here! We have boxers here who bring boxing back to where it was when people knew who New England fighters were. Our series is centered around young, talented fighters on the way up. We want to help them step up to the next level by giving them this platform. We’re streaming out shows live and working on a television partner.” Reyes Boxing’s plan for 2022 is to promote shows in Maine, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
“We’ve signed some local prospects and some veterans as well,” Reyes added. “I grew up watching Tuesday Night Fights and my dream is for this series to develop over the next few years into a weekly series on a major network.”
Boston lightweight prospect Jonathan Depina (5-1, 3 KOs) faces Gonzalo Carlos Deller (9-14, 7 KOs) in the 6-round co-featured event for the vacant ABF Mid-Atlantic Lightweight Championship.
ABF Atlantic Middleweight Champion Anthony “Big Daddy” Hines, fighting out of nearby Dorchester (a Boston district) makes his first defense versus challenger Fidel Montero Muñoz, a former Colombian Light Heavyweight Champion, in an 8-round bout.
Also fighting on the undercard, all in 4-rounders, is Lynn (MA) heavyweight Dennis Ventura (4-0, 3 KOs) vs, Vercell Webster (1-4-1, 1 KO), of Mississippi, New York super lightweight Brandon Idrogo (4-1, 4 KOs) vs. Virginian Stacey Anderson (0-7), undefeated New London (CT) lightweight prospect Alejandro “El Abusador” Paolino (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Italian-born, Argentina resident Christian “El Nija” Danilo Guido (8-20, 6 KOs), Providence (RI) heavyweight Sean Bey (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Utah’s pro-debuting Brandon Grundy, and Dracut (MA) lightweight Gabriel Morales )(2-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA.
Card is subject to change.
Tickets are priced at $75.00 (General Admission), $90.00 (Reserved), $125.00 (Ringside) and $250.00 VIP (dedicated server on stage) and available for purchase online at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21 or directly from any of the participating boxers on this show. Limited tickets will be available at the door while they last.
Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 6:30 p.m. ET.
“I’m going to show him that he’s a chump on December 5. I’m not here to talk, I’m here to fight,” – Davis “Everyone’s going to see December 5, I’m going to knock Gervonta the f*** out!” – Romero Five-Time World Champion Davis To Defend WBA Lightweight Title Against Unbeaten Contender Romero Sunday, December 5 on SHOWTIME PPV®From STAPLES Center in Los Angeles Headlining a Premier Boxing Champions Event Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME® Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/ Mayweather Promotions Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions LOS ANGELES (October 21, 2021) – Five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and hard-hitting, unbeaten lightweight contender Rolando “Rolly” Romero went face-to-face Thursday at a press conference to preview their showdown for Davis’ WBA Lightweight Championship headlining live on SHOWTIME PPV Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
Davis’ third-straight pay-per-view headlining attraction will see him battle his outspoken lightweight foe Romero, as the 26-year-old power-punchers put their unbeaten records on the line. The event will mark Davis’ return to Southern California after he knocked out Hugo Ruiz in the first round in front of a sold-out crowd in February 2019.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from City View Terrace at STAPLES Center:
GERVONTA DAVIS
“I’m thankful to be here to give the fans another great fight. This is what we do. ‘Rolly’ is just here to talk. He’s trying to talk his way into winning, but he’s scared. I’m coming to fight.
“They only talk about his power, but this is boxing. His skills are not up to par with mine. He can’t even talk about power, because everyone knows I’m bringing it. You can shoot bullets, but how are you going to defend yourself when the bullets are shot back?
“He’s been talking for a long time. He’s trying to sell a fight, but I’m going to show him that he’s a chump on December 5. I’m not here to talk, I’m here to fight. I don’t take this personally. To me, this isn’t beef, this is business.
“I was on a mission when I fought Jose Pedraza for the title. I didn’t do the trash talking. I went in there and proved that I’m a top guy. This guy is just here to talk. I’m going to do the talking in the ring on December 5.
“His trainer isn’t working on anything but power. They aren’t working on any skills. He hasn’t fought anybody like me and he’s going to see the difference.
“I’ve never once turned down any fight. I’m not scared of anybody. I’m going to fight everybody. I’ll fight a heavyweight. This is nothing to me. I’ve survived a lot of stuff.
“He’s supposed to come here and sell the fight. I’m supposed to win. I’d rather punish him for 12 rounds than knock him out quick. Part of me wants to humble him, but the most important thing to do is just go out there and get the job done.
“This fight is for the fans. The fans are winning December 5. Make sure you come out and support. I’m thankful to be in this position. It’s all about my team and those people who have put me in a great position.”
ROLANDO ROMERO
“Everyone’s going to see December 5, I’m going to knock Gervonta the f*** out. I hope you hear that.
“I’ve been calling ‘Tank’ out since 2017. We were supposed to spar in 2018 and he didn’t show up to the gym. He did that twice because he knew he was getting beat. December 5, you’re getting knocked out.
“This is just who I am. This is how I was born. I came into this sport at 17-years-old and I’ve made the most out of what I’ve done. Everybody come watch me knock him out on December 5.
“He’s got such a big head, it’s going to be hard to miss it. He gets touched up by every opponent he faces. Leo Santa Cruz was beating him up and Barrios was getting to him too.
“He wants to run out of the ring whenever he gets hit. It happens in sparring and in the amateurs. I was the one who had to force this fight, because I’ve seen for years that he’s a chump. He’s made a career out of beating up 126-pounders.
“He doesn’t know half the stuff that I’ve seen and been through. I’m here to knock him out in the ring. He’s arrogant and tries to act like he’s tough, but I’m knocking him out.
“Manny Pacquiao has an awkward style too, and look at everything he’s accomplished. Just because I fight differently, does that mean I don’t have skills? I have my own skills and they’ve gotten me this far.
“I’m not going into the ring angry, I’m just focused.”
FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions
“These are two great fighters. And when I say great, I mean that every time they go out there, they produce. ‘Tank’ is a young kid from Baltimore who had a dream. He’s been through a lot. He fought his way to the top. You have to commend him for that. No matter what anyone says, he earned his stripes.
“I believe ‘Tank’ is one of the best fighters in the world. ‘Rolly’ says he wants to fight the best. Come December 5, it’s going to be a hell of a fight.
“’Rolly’ is tough. He’ll fight anybody and that eagerness makes this an intriguing matchup. ‘Rolly’ just wants to prove he’s the best. He’s also a hell of a puncher. Every time we presented an opponent to him, he’s accepted every one of them.
“’Tank’ is doing record-breaking numbers. I always told him it would come in due time. I told him that the same way I sell out arenas, you’re going to do the same thing one day. He had patience and that’s what we’re doing.
“These guys are the future of boxing. I don’t see this fight going the distance. Two undefeated knockout artists. Two champions. December 5, I’ll see everyone there.”
CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Co-Trainer
“I hope you keep up this talking ‘Rolly.’ We’ll see who’s still going to be talking at the end of the night on December 5.
“Romero has an awkward style, but the beauty of having two coaches with ‘Tank,’ is that there’s nothing we aren’t ready for.
“Having Barry Hunter be a part of the camp has helped calm ‘Tank’ down in many ways. I think everyone will see the beauty of us working together in this fight.
“I don’t train ‘Tank’ for knockouts. I train him to go the distance. He can get you from round 1 to 12. So you better stay sharp.”
BARRY HUNTER, Davis’ Co-Trainer
“Everyone knows what we’re coming to do. I have mad respect for the other side. Bring your A-game, because we’re definitely going to bring ours.
“We’re born for stuff like this right here. Like everyone said, there’s no way this fight goes the distance.
“Everybody is working hard to be at their best, because we don’t want any excuses after it’s over with. I have faith in Gervonta. I know what he’s going to do.”
BULLET CROMWELL, Romero’s Trainer
“I know what everybody is saying about who the champ is coming into this, but the champ wasn’t born a champ, he had to rise too. Just like a young lion, ‘Rolly’ is ready to rise.
“I’m an L.A. guy. When we come back here, we’re fighting for a legacy. It’s not just a belt and money.
“I told ‘Rolly’ that Gervonta Davis is standing in the way of changing your family and your legacy. We got a job to do.
“I don’t care about pure boxing or any style. I took karate, street-fighting and boxing, and I put it all together. Combined with a puncher with ‘Rolly’s’ power, and with his grind and grit, it’s a perfect match.
“I have a lot of respect for ‘Tank’ and his team. He’s a great fighter, but Rolly is next up. He’s going to be the new WBA champion on December 5.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“We’re excited to bring this huge event to Los Angeles at STAPLES Center on Sunday, December 5. This is a tremendous matchup and the fans should be excited. There’s a lot of buzz already and tickets are going fast.
“These fighters truly despise each other. It’s rare you see that in boxing. In 2019, me and Floyd were at the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Mikey Garcia and we were talking and all of a sudden Davis and Romero were ready to go at it at ringside. Floyd told them that they could do it in the ring, and now here we are.
“’Tank’ is without a doubt the most exciting fighter in the world. He’s also one of the biggest attractions and one of the best fighters in the world. ‘Rolly’ has let it be known that he’s been ‘trolling’ ‘Tank’ and I’m sure on December 5, ‘Tank’ will be doing whatever he can to shut ‘Rolly’ up.
“’Rolly’ is a very explosive fighter and anytime he steps into the ring, he’s looking to get his opponent out of there. He never lacks confidence and he’s confident that on December 5 he’s getting the job done.
“With two tremendous power punchers like this, there’s no way this fight doesn’t end in a knockout. Tune in December 5 and expect someone to get knocked out.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President of SHOWTIME Sports
“For SHOWTIME Sports, 2021 has been one of the strongest years on record. We have delivered a total of 42 events, half of which ended in knockouts. On December 5, I expect this won’t go the distance, either, with these two hard hitters.
“Week after week, year after year, SHOWTIME continues to be the standard of this sport. No one in combat sports is putting on better, or more meaningful fights than us.
“As we enter Gervonta’s 11th fight with SHOWTIME, he has never been down, and he has continued to shine. When other fighters are talking, ‘Tank’ is fighting and selling out arenas.
“’Rolly’ has also never been downed as a pro. He is a hard hitter and is one of the best talents in boxing, and he will be the first to tell you.”
# # #
ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Championship against hard-hitting, unbeaten lightweight contender Rolando “Rolly” Romero live on SHOWTIME PPVon Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event. Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
Paul Kroll Battles Mark Dawson Jr. in a Battle of Undefeated Welterweights in an All-Philly Showdown on Saturday, November 27th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia
Jesse Hart takes on Ernest Amuzu
Plus Undefeated Isaiah Johnson, Rashan Adams, Jabril Noble, Istvan Bermath, and Derek Starling
PHILADELPHIA (October 21, 2021)–A can’t miss welterweight showdown will headline RDR Promotions big night of boxing on Saturday, November 27th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
Undefeated Philadelphia based welterweight’s Paul Kroll and Mark Dawson Jr. will fight in an eight-round bout in what will be one of the most anticipated fights featuring Philadelphia fighters in a while.
Kroll, who was a 2016 United States Olympic alternate, has a record of 8-0 with six knockouts. Kroll is a three-year professional, has a win over highly regarded Shinard Bunch (2-0) and is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision over Lucas Santamaria on October 3, 2020 in Los Angeles.
Dawson is 9-0-1 with three knockouts. The 24 year-old Dawson is coming off his career best victory when he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Ivan Pandzic (13-0-1) on July 24th at the 2300 Arena.
In the eight-round co-feature, former two-time world title challenger, Jesse Hart will be in action against veteran Ernest Amuzu in a super middleweight contest.
Hart of Philadelphia has a record of 27-3 with 21 knockouts. The 32 year-old has twice battled for the super middleweight championship of the world only to fall just short to Gilberto Ramirez in fights that were decided by just a couple of points.
After a stellar amateur career, Hart turned professional on June 9, 2012 with a 1st round stoppage of Manuel Eastman in Las Vegas. That led to Hart winning his first 22 fights (20 by knockout), with victories over Tyrell Hendrix (10-2-2), Samuel Clarkson (10-2), Roberto Acevedo (8-2), Mike Jimenez (17-0), Andrew Hernandez (16-4-1), Alan Campa (16-2). Hart also has victories over Demond Nicholson (18-2), Mike Gavronski (24-2-1) and Sullivan Barrera (22-2). Hart is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over Mike Guy on September 17th at the 2300 Arena.
Amuzu of Prichard, Alabama, has a record of 26-5 with 22 knockouts. Amuzu, 38, is an 11-year veteran and is coming off a unanimous decision over Zacariah Kelly on June 27, 2020 in Plant City, Florida.
In an eight-round bout, Istvan Bernath (7-0, 5 KOs) of Miami is taking on an opponent to be named in heavyweight bout.
In Four Round Bouts:
Isaiah Johnson (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Anthony Young (0-3) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight contest.
Rashan Adams (1-0) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight fight.
Jabril Noble (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Joshua Zimmerman (0-5) of Baltimore in a super featherweight bout.
Derek Starling (3-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a heavyweight fight.
LaQuan Evans (4-2, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Victor Garcia Rivera (1-8) of Los Angeles in a super welterweight fight.
SALEM, Mass. (October 20, 2021) — The second installment of “Down & Dirty,” the only ongoing professional boxing series in New England, will be Friday night, October 29th, at Melrose Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts.
“Down & Dirty,” presented by Reyes Boxing, will be headlined by an 8-round main event between Jeovanis “Meque” Barraza (22-1, 15 KOs) and Jorge “Tomatito” Martin Garcia (13-7-1, 6 KOs) for the vacant ABF Continental Americas Super Welterweight Championship. All the action will be streamed live and exclusively on pay-per-view at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21, starting at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT, for $29.95.
“We have a great, young pool of talent in challenging fights on this show,” Reyes Boxing promoter Michael Reyes said. “Our “Down & Dirty” series going on in New England. This is our first show in Massachusetts. Our 2022 plan is to have series shows in all six New England states. We have some fighters preparing to advance to the next level of competition, as well as young local fighters gaining invaluable experience.”
The reigning Colombian Welterweight Champion, Barraza’s lone loss as a pro was to then pro-debuting Gabriel Maestre two years ago in Colombia to 2-time Venezuelan Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who is now 4-0 and the WBA Interim World Welterweight Champion. This will mark Barraza’s first fight outside of his native Colombia.
Garcia, a shifty southpaw, will be fighting outside of his native Argentina for the first time as a prizefighter. He has become a South American gatekeeper in the welterweight division. Promising Boston lightweight Jonathan Depina (5-1, 3 KOs) meets Gonzalo Carlos Dallera (9-14, 7 KOs) in the 6-round co-featured event for the vacant ABF Mid-Atlantic Lightweight Championship. Depina has rebounded from his lone loss as a pro this past May, a 6-round decision in the Dominican Republic to pro-debuting Dominican Felix Batista San Juan.
ABF Atlantic Middleweight Champion Anthony “Big Daddy” Hines, fighting out of nearby Dorchester (a Boston district) will take on challenger Fidel Monterrosa Munuz, a former Colombian Light Heavyweight Champion, in an 8-round fight. Hines will make his first title defense of the title he won this past June with a 6-round majority decision over Gustavo Sandoval. The heavy-handed Dallera represents a step up in terms of quality opposition for 33-year-old Hines.
Also fighting on the undercard, all in 4-rounders, is Lynn (MA) heavyweight Dennis Ventura (4-0, 3 KOs) vs, Vercell Webster (1-4-1, 1 KO), of Mississippi, New York super lightweight Brandon Idrogo (4-1, 4 KOs) vs. Virginian Stacey Anderson (0-7), undefeated New London (CT) lightweight prospect Alejandro “El Abusador” Paolino (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Italian-born, Argentina resident Christian “El Nija” Danilo Guido (8-20, 6 KOs), Providence (RI) heavyweight Sean Bey (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Utah’s pro-debuting Brandon Grundy, and Dracut (MA) lightweight Gabriel Morales )(2-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA.
Card is subject to change.
Tickets are priced at $75.00 (General Admission), $90.00 (Reserved), $125.00 (Ringside) and $250.00 VIP (dedicated server on stage) and available for purchase online at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21 or directly from any of the participating boxers on this show. Limited tickets will be available at the door while they last
Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 6:30 p.m. ET.
Clearwater, FL (October 19, 2021) – Fire Fist Boxing Promotions returned to Banquet Maters in Clearwater Saturday, October 16 and treated fans to an entertaining 7 fight card.
Popular junior welterweight Joseph Fernandez of St. Petersburg, FL became the ABF champion with an impressive third round stoppage against veteran Jose Forero of Panama. Backed by a large cheering section, Fernandez got off to a strong start and landed many clean shots against the rugged Forero. In round three, the southpaw Fernandez connected with picturesque right hook to Forero’s head that sent him crashing to the canvas.
Forero bravely got up at the count of 8 but was in no condition to continue, forcing Referee Michael DeJesus to halt the contest at 2:10.
With the victory, Fernandez improves to 14-3-3 with 5 knockouts. Forero slips to 13-9-1 (11 KO’s).
Light heavyweight Imran “El Toro Arab” Haddabah of St. Petersburg destroyed Los Angeles, CA’s Victor Garcia Rivera in 1 minute and 51 seconds. The heavy-handed Haddabah scored three knockdowns and is now 3-0 with all of his victories coming by first round stoppage.
135 pound up and comer Iron Alvarez of Tampa, FL improved to 14-0 (11 KO’s) following a hard-fought decision over Miami, FL based Argentinian Jonatan Hernan Godoy, 5-11 (2 KO’s).
Alvarez had a significant height and reach advantage and peppered Godoy with jabs and straight rights from the opening bell. Alvarez’ repeated blows opened a cut over Godoy’s left eye and helped him score a hard knockdown but Godoy had no intentions of packing it in.
Bleeding and down on the scorecards, Godoy begun pressing the fight and successfully connected with a number of punches to Alvarez’ head.
After six entertaining rounds, scores were 58-55 and 59-54 twice.
Junior lightweight Daniel “G.D.F.E.” Bailey of Tampa improved to 8-0 with an impressive six round decision over Aguadilla, Puerto Rico’s Pedro Hernandez. An Army veteran and multi-time amateur champion, Bailey displayed solid skills and looks to be a prospect on the rise.
In a women’s flyweight contest, Maryguenn Vellinga Hinz scored a third round TKO over debuting Simona Sarpa of Tampa. Vellinga Hinz, of Park City, UT, is 3-1-2 with 2 wins by knockout.
Cruiserweight Adrian Pinheiro of Orlando, FL improved to 3-0 (3 KO’s) with a first round knockout of Wilson, NC’s Dequanti Johnson and Tampa middleweight Christopher Rodriguez moved to 2-0 (2 KO’s) by KO’ing Milwaukee, WI’s Jay Ellis in round one.
“I am thrilled we were able to give the fans an entertaining show,” said Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing. “There is a lot of up and coming talent in the Tampa-St Pete region and the fans have always been great in packing the house on fight night. We’re looking forward to our next show.”
Fire Fist Boxing Promotions returns to Banquet Masters on January, 28. More information will follow.
For more information, visit Firefistboxing.net or Facebook.com/Firefistboxing.
Undefeated Former World Champion Rey Vargas Returns To Battle Mexico’s Leonardo Báez in Super Bantamweight Showdown Plus! Super Lightweight Contenders Elvis Rodríguez and Juan Pablo Romero Square Off in Pay-Per-View Opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT LAS VEGAS (October 18, 2021) – Three high-stakes matchups featuring former world champions, top contenders and rising future champions have been added to the highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV event headlined by Canelo Álvarez and Caleb “Sweethands” Plant battling for the undisputed super middleweight championship on Saturday, November 6 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Two-time super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell will square off against exciting contender “Madman” Marcos Hernández in the 10-round co-main event, while unbeaten former super bantamweight world champion Rey Vargas returns to action against Mexico’s Leonardo Báez in a 10-round attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, super lightweight contenders Elvis Rodríguez and Juan Pablo Romero will duel in a 10-round showdown.
Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.
Dirrell (33-2-2, 24 KOs), a two-time WBC 168-pound world champion, won the title for the first time with a unanimous decision over Sakio Bika in 2014. The native of Flint, Mich. dropped the title the next year to Badou Jack by majority decision, before putting together six straight victories to get back into position to fight for the championship again. He captured the title for a second time in 2019, winning a technical decision victory over Avni Yildirim. Most recently, Dirrell battled Kyrone Davis to a draw in February, in his first fight since a title fight defeat against David Benavidez in September 2019.
“I’m very ready for this fight,” said Dirrell. “I know Hernandez is a tough competitor and I’m sure he’ll have a lot of fans there since we’re fighting on the same card as Canelo. But I know I’m ready to fight on the big stage and on a card of this magnitude. I fought on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Shawn Porter undercard and I think this fight night is going to have a similar feel. I’m just prepared to do whatever I have to do to get the victory. The fans should expect fireworks. I’m not shying away from the action and hopefully I can get the winner of Canelo vs. Plant if I perform well on November 6.”
Fighting out of Fresno, Calif., Hernández (15-4-2, 3 KOs) has faced excellent competition in his career, battling a litany of tough fellow rising contenders. The 28-year-old most recently scored an impressive unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten Armando Resendiz in September. In addition to his recent triumph, Hernández has twice faced former unified super welterweight champion Jeison Rosario, fighting to a draw in their first meeting before losing the rematch. He has also taken down then-unbeaten fighters in Kevin Newman II and Thomas Hill.
“I’m having a great training camp for this fight coming off of my performance in early September,” said Hernández. “As always, the fans can expect me to bring an entertaining fight. I know that I’m up against a former world champion who’s accomplished a lot in his career. I’m just focusing on working hard every day to get the victory and everything that will come with it.”
The former WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion, Vargas (34-0, 22 KOs) will return from layoff due to injury when he enters the ring on November 6. The 30-year-old went on the road to the U.K. to capture his title in 2017, winning a decision over previously unbeaten Gavin McDonnell. A native of Mexico City, Vargas made five successful defenses of his title, defeating top contenders including Oscar Negrete, Ronny Rios and Azat Hovhannisyan. His last fight and fifth successful title defense came via a unanimous decision over former world champion Tomoki Kameda in July 2019.
“I’m very happy for my return to the ring and my debut with PBC,” said Vargas. “You are going to see a renewed Rey Vargas on November 6. My opponent is a good fighter with speed who throws a lot of combinations. It will be a tough fight, but I know I have what it takes to win. I couldn’t be happier to be on the big stage on Canelo’s undercard. I know that I have to shine on fight night, take advantage of this showcase, and deliver a great fight for the fans.”
The Baja California, Mexico native Báez (21-4, 12 KOs) enters this fight the winner of his last three outings, all coming by TKO. The 26-year-old put together the winning streak after defeats to the previously unbeaten Carlos Caraballo and former title challenger Jason Moloney. Báez, who has fought professionally since 2013, will fight in the U.S. for the fourth time on November 6. Amongst his stateside outings, Báez dominated former interim champion Moises Flores on his way to earning a unanimous decision in February 2020.
“I’m excited for this great challenge on November 6,” said Báez. “I’m planning on giving the fans a true Mexican war and leaving it all in the ring to get the victory. It’s an honor to fight on the Canelo undercard and I’m going to make the most of it. This is going to be a toe-to-toe war, and I’m going to show that he’s not able to stand up to my power and aggression.”
Rodríguez (11-1-1, 10 KOs) burst onto the scene with knockout victories in 10 of his first 11 fights. He capped off a five-win 2020 campaign with a knockout of Cameron Krael in October and a decision victory against Luis Alberto Veron four months later. Fighting out of his native Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Rodríguez most recently dropped a narrow majority decision against Kenneth Sims Jr. in May.
“I am very thankful to my team for getting me this tremendous opportunity opening up the pay-per-view for the biggest fight of the year,” said Rodríguez. “I have a tough opponent in front of me, but I’m in the best shape of my life. I’m ready to show everyone that I’m the real deal. My goal remains the same, and that’s to win a world title in 2022. First, I am just focused on November 6 and making sure I take advantage of the opportunity that a victory will produce on my road to the world title.”
Romero (14-0, 9 KOs) turned pro in 2017 after fighting for his native Mexico at the 2016 Olympic Games. The 31-year-old dispatched solid veterans Nestor Armas, Nestor Gonzalez and Ranses Payano in 2019, before earning a 10-round decision over Sergio Torres Alvarado in his only 2020 contest. Romero made it back-to-back 10-round unanimous decision triumphs in April of this year, as he won his U.S. debut by defeating Deiner Berrio. Throughout his extensive amateur career, Romero owns an impressive victory over unbeaten welterweight contender Gabriel Maestre.
“I’m very excited that my team was able to get me this great opportunity to fight on a Canelo show in Las Vegas,” said Romero. “I feel just as happy and excited to fight as I did for the Olympic games. I’m going to prove what I’m made of on November 6. No matter who my opponent is, I always train hard and prepare to do whatever I can to earn the victory.”
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ABOUT CANELO VS. PLANT Canelo vs. Plant will see boxing’s consensus No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, Mexican superstar and unified WBA/WBC/WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez face undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant in a historic showdown on Saturday, November 6, live on SHOWTIME PPV at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter with the hashtag #CaneloPlant, and @Canelo, @SweetHandsPlant, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @Canelo, @CalebPlant, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
Rising Welterweight Star Jaron Ennis Duels Veteran Contender Thomas Dulorme in Co-Main Event and Exciting Unbeaten Lightweight Michel Rivera Kicks Off Telecast Facing Matías Romero Tickets on Sale Now! LAS VEGAS (October 13, 2021) – WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James will defend his title against unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev in a 12-round duel that headlines a night of action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis in a 10-round showdown against veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera faces Argentina’s Matías Romero in a 10-round attraction.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Ennis vs. Dulorme is promoted in association with D&D Boxing. Rivera vs. Romero is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing.
“A stacked lineup of top contenders and up-and-coming future champions will be on full display October 30 on SHOWTIME in Las Vegas,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jamal James has battled his way to the highest levels of the welterweight division and will get one step closer to gathering elite status if he can overcome the unbeaten Radzhab Butaev. The undercard bouts will also feature two rising stars, as Jaron Ennis and Michel Rivera look to impress in tough matchups on a big stage.”
Minneapolis’ James (27-1, 12 KOs) returns to action after his previous outing saw him earn an interim title by defeating Thomas Dulorme in August 2020, before later being upgraded to the “regular” championship. The 33-year-old is riding a seven-bout winning streak that includes triumphs over Abel Ramos, Diego Gabriel Chaves and Antonio DeMarco, with four of those matchups coming in his hometown, where he has grown a rabid fan base. With a win on October 30, James moves nearer to a potential rematch of his first and only defeat against WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugas.
“Training is and has been at 100%,” said James. “I’m excited to finally get back in the ring and defend my title. This will be the fight where I show everyone why I’m elite in this profession and should be recognized as one of the best.”
The 27-year-old Butaev (13-0, 10 KOs) will finally square off against James in a long-awaited matchup ordered by the WBA. Butaev turned pro after approximately 400 amateur bouts in 2016 and reeled-off KOs in six of his first seven outings. Originally from Russia and now fighting out of Brooklyn, N.Y., Butaev returned to the ring in December 2020, stopping previously unbeaten Terry Chatwood in the third round.
“We’ve been working hard for a year leading up to this fight,” said Butaev. “Everything is going really well in camp and we’re excited to finally get in the ring against James. I’ve seen how James fights and it’s definitely going to be a clash of styles. I can just promise that I’m going to bring the war and make this an exciting fight. I’m going to start writing my history on October 30.”
Ennis (27-0, 25 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining sublime boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After numerous appearances on ShoBox: The New Generation, the 24-year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast in his last outing in April, as he became the first fighter to stop former world champion Sergey Lipinets. The knockout victory gave Ennis 17 KOs in his last 18 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.
“I’m glad to be back in the ring October 30 on SHOWTIME in Las Vegas,” said Ennis. “This is another step towards becoming world champion! They haven’t seen nothing yet. It’s time for me to continue to shine and be great. I can’t wait to show out and have some fun.”
The 31-year-old Dulorme (25-5-1, 16 KOs) has amassed a solid resume at 140 and 147 pounds during his career, climbing into the ring with world champions Yordenis Ugas, Jessie Vargas and Terence Crawford. Born in Marigot, Guadeloupe but representing Carolina, Puerto Rico, Dulorme rebounded from a loss to Crawford for a 140-pound title by scoring back-to-back knockouts, followed by a narrow decision loss to Ugas. The world title challenger is coming off solid efforts in back-to-back decision losses against Jamal James and Eimantas Stanionis.
“I think in the Stanionis fight I demonstrated that I am still at the top level,” said Dulorme. “A lot of people told me I won that fight and I thought I did too. I’m excited to face Ennis because he’s a good fighter, but he hasn’t fought anyone like me. The fans can expect another great performance from me on SHOWTIME.”
Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now fighting out of Miami, Fla. Rivera (21-0, 14 KOs) burst onto the scene in 2019, making his U.S. debut with a victory over Juan Rene Tellez. The 23-year-old continued his ascent in 2020, adding a stoppage win against Fidel Maldonado Jr. and a unanimous decision triumph against lightweight contender LaDarius Miller. Rivera has continued his dominance with a pair of knockout victories in 2021, stopping Anthony Mercado in February before most recently delivering a highlight-reel knockout of Jon Fernandez in July on SHOWTIME.
“Romero made a big mistake taking this fight,” said Rivera. “What he’s seen from me in the gym, is not the same thing that he’s going to see on fight night. He is far from a fight night fighter. He folds under pressure or runs. He is a good fighter, but he’s not at my level. I won’t let him go the distance like Isaac Cruz did. On October 30, I’m going to give him the beating of his lifetime.”
Romero (24-1, 8 KOs) made his stateside debut in March, dropping a competitive decision to top lightweight contender Isaac Cruz on SHOWTIME. Previously, the Cordoba, Argentina native picked up a pair of victories in 2020, winning a 12-round decision over Javier Jose Clavero in November, while stopping Gabriel Gustavo Ovejero in March. A pro since 2015, the 25-year-old will look to bounce back from his first defeat and move into title contention against another elite 135-pound opponent.
“Rivera and I have the same promoter and I personally requested for Sampson Lewkowicz to let me fight him when I saw he had no opponent,” said Romero. “I am willing to step in because I know I can beat him. We have trained at the same gym, but never sparred. His style is perfect for my style. This is going to be another victory for me to add to my collection.”
DEDHAM, Mass. (October 13, 2021) – The second “Fight Night,” a charity boxing event presented by Punch4Parkinsons, will be held Saturday night, October 23rd, at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.
Regular people, not professional or amateur boxers, will lace-up their gloves to support Punch4Parkinsons’ fight against Parkinson’s disease. A memorable night will include numerous boxing exhibitions, each a scheduled 3-round (1:30 per round) match.
“Through our charity ‘Fight Night’ we are able to support local boxing gyms with rock steady programs,” Punch4Parkinsons founder/president Ryan Roach explained, “as well as one-on-one and small group boxing lessons. We cover 100-percent of Parkinson’s fighters’ gym memberships. We now have more than 100 Parkinson’s fighters, mostly in New England, but we do have some fighters in Florida and Texas. “One of our fighters recently went to the doctor and she had dropped 20 points on the Parkinson’s scale. She attributes this to the boxing we provide her three times a week.”
Last year’s “Fight Night” charity event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Limited tickets priced at $200.00 (ringside, row 1), $175.00 (ringside, row 2), $165.00 (ringside, row 2), and $75.00 (standing room) and available for purchase by going online at www.punch4parkinsons.com or contacting one of the participating fighters.
Those unable to attend but interested in making a donation can do so by going online at www.punch4parkinsons.com.
Doors open at 7 pm. ET with the first match slated for 7:30 p.m. ET.
St. Petersburg, FL (October 14, 2021) – To say that St. Petersburg junior welterweight Joseph Fernandez has a good work ethic would be an understatement.
Each weekday, Fernandez’ morning begins at 4:15 AM when he wakes up to get ready for strength and conditioning training at 5. Following the class, Fernandez grabs something to eat, cleans up and heads to his fulltime job installing hurricane windows and doors. The labor-intensive position has him working 8 to 10 hours per day. After work, Fernandez has a short time to relax and recharge before a 2-3 hour workout at Fight Fitness Center in Pinellas Park, FL.
Needless to say, it’s a challenge for the St. Petersburg native.
“It requires a lot of hard work and dedication,” said Fernandez, who has an excellent 13-3-3 professional ledger with 4 wins by KO. I have to remain focused on what I’m doing at that moment and not think about what else I’ve got going on during the day.”
On Saturday, October 16, Fernandez headlines for the first time when he meets tough Panamanian Jose Forero in a ten round contest for the ABF Atlantic 140 pound championship.
A veteran of 22 fights, Forero’s shared the squared circle with champions and contenders including George Kambosos, Jezreel Corrales, Jaime Arboleda and Willian Silva.
“He’s a durable fighter who likes to come forward and he won’t go down easily,” Fernandez said of Forero. “I’ve watched him a few times and he’s been in there with some really good fighters but we’re prepared for everything he has to offer. I’m excited to be headlining a card for the first time and worked incredibly hard to get here. The plan is to put on a great show and emerge victorious!”
The card is promoted by Fire Fist Boxing Promotions in association with Pahlavan Promotions and takes places at Banquet Masters in Clearwater, FL.
13-0 lightweight Iron Alvarez of Tampa, FL will swap leather with Jonatan “El Guapo” Godoy of Argentina over six rounds in the lightweight division. Alvarez, has 10 wins by knockout and scored a 2nd round stoppage of Pablo Cupul last month.
Lightweight Daniel Bailey of Tampa puts his 7-0 record on the line against upset-minded Puerto Rico’s Pedro Hernandez in a six rounder. In his last bout, Hernandez beat 5-0 Daniel Perez and Bailey will be Hernandez’ sixth straight unbeaten foe.
In separate for round contests, light heavyweight Imran Haddabah of St. Petersburg meets Victor Rivera of Los Angeles, CA, flyweight Simona Sarpa of Tampa by way of Italy squares off against Park City, UT’s Maryguenn Vellinga Hinz, cruiserweight Adrian Pinheiro of Orlando, FL faces Wilson, NC’s Dequanti Johnson and Tampa middleweight Christopher Rodriguez challenges Milwaukee, WI native Jay Ellis.
Former Kazakh amateur champion Nikoay Shvab, a lightweight residing in Miami, FL, and Tampa bantamweight Luis Rivera are scheduled to appear in separate contests.
Tickets are on sale at bit.ly/boxing-tickets or by calling 727-525-3159. Doors open at 5:30 and the opening bell will sound at 6:30.
For more information on Fire Fist Boxing Promotions, visit Firefistboxing.net or Facebook.com/firefistboxing.
