Category Archives: boxing

PETER QUILLIN DEFEATS MICHAEL ZERAFA VIA FIFTH-ROUND KNOCKOUT ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FROM FOXWOODS RESORT CASINO IN MASHANTUCKET, CONNECTICUT

 
Victory Sets Up All-Brooklyn Battle With Daniel Jacobs Later This Year
 
Jermall Charlo Wins Junior Middleweight World Title With Third-Round Stoppage of Cornelius Bundrage
Rising Star Marcus Browne Stops Former Champion Gabriel Campillo In 55 Seconds Into Round One
 
Click HERE For Photos From Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
MASHANTUCKET, CT (September 12, 2015) – Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (32-0-1, 22 KOs) knocked out Michael Zerafa (17-2, 9 KOs) in the fifth round on Saturday afternoon from Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut on Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC.
Quillin and Zerafa exchanged power punches throughout the affair, with the underdog Zerafa landing several big shots that stopped Quillin in his tracks. In the fifth round, a powerful right hand from Quillin connected with Zerafa and sent him tumbling to the ground as referee Arthur Mercante Jr. waved-off the fight. Quillin landed 47 percent of his power punches and out-landed Zerafa 54-38, per CompuBox.
Zerafa exited the ring on a stretcher and was taken to Backus Hospital in Norwich, Connecticut as a precautionary measure. During Quillin’s post-fight press conference, he was put on the phone with Zerafa, who said that he was okay. Zerafa has been undergoing tests, his CAT scan is normal, and all indications are that he is likely to be released from the hospital tonight.
The victory for Quillin sets up an all-Brooklyn middleweight world title fight with Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs tentatively set to take place this December. Jacobs was ringside as part of the PBC on NBC broadcast team and was interviewed after the fight to share his thoughts about the future collision.
In the co-main event undefeated star Jermall “Hitman” Charlo (22-0, 17 KOs) knocked down Cornelius “K9” Bundrage (35-6, 19 KOs)four times en route to a third round stoppage to win a junior middleweight world title at 25-years-old.
Charlo came out firing, knocking down Bundrage in the first round with a sharp overhand. He followed that up in the second round with a straight left that again sent Bundrage to the canvas. Charlo began the third round with a barrage of punches that ended in Bundrage tumbling to the mat. One final flurry late in the round put Bundrage on the mat for the fourth time, prompting referee Johnny Callas to stop the fight.
Charlo’s twin brother and fellow undefeated boxer Jermell cheered him along in his corner and the two embraced immediately upon Jermall’s victory. Charlo out-landed Bundrage 33-20 over the three rounds, per CompuBox.
In a light heavyweight bout, 2012 U.S. Olympian and undefeated rising star “Sir” Marcus Browne (16-0, 12 KOs) stopped former world champion Gabriel Campillo (25-8-1, 12 KOs) 55 seconds into the first round, after unleashing a series of shots to the body that knocked Campillo down twice.
PETER QUILLIN
“It is hard to celebrate a performance like that, especially when someone is leaving on a stretcher. Unfortunately that is part of the game. I just pray that he gets better and gets home to Australia safe and sound.
“I made a bad mistake in my past when I fought Miranda.  I learned that you have to give every guy credit.
“What’s important is that I’m ready for Danny Jacobs. Now it’s time for Brooklyn to see me and Danny Jacobs. We’ve waited for a long time for it.
“I like Danny because I’m a big fan of his. But business is business unfortunately.
“[To Jacobs] We can do it right here if you want to take off that suit and put on those gloves. Lets do it right now.
“I’m back in camp on Monday. I’m getting ready for Danny Jacobs.
“Right now he’s the champ, I’m the challenger. I like to be in that position. It motivates me. I fight for all the kids who were told they wouldn’t make it.”
DANIEL JACOBS, Middleweight World Champion is expected to take on Quillin on December 5.
“I’m from Brownsville in Brooklyn. I never ran and I never will.
December 5 at Barclays Center.  I’m the champion and he’s the challenger.
“I don’t know how it’s going to go down, but it’s going to be a great fight.
“In the sport of boxing, you can’t make too many friends.
“It will be one of the biggest fights that Brooklyn has had in a long time.
“I’m a mover, I’m a power puncher and I have a high boxing IQ. He has trouble with guys that move and I can think on the fly.
“This [fight] is all the motivation I needed…what other motivation do you need to get your butt in the gym and get prepared?
“They call me the ‘Miracle Man’. It’s no secret that I have motivation to be the best I can be. Come December 5, Brooklyn is going to have a new star.”
JERMALL CHARLO
“I’m the champion of the world. It’s all God-given. I couldn’t ask for anything better. I feel good.
“You never put a dog in a pen with a lion. I said I was going to do what I was going to do.
“This is the future. I am the future of boxing.
“I studied and I stayed ready. K-9 got cut and I stayed ready.  When I turned pro seven years ago, I didn’t know this would be possible.
“I was ready for 12 rounds, and I knew he was ready for 12 rounds.
“I’ve finally made it to the championship status. To be classified as a world champion, it’s history.
“The fight went exactly how we thought it would. It was getting rough and I was ready for it. It was just a matter of time. It’s the best feeling in the world.
“I want to become even better. I want to defend my title and show everyone how good I am.”
CORNELIUS BUNDRAGE
“You win some, you lose some. The problem was, I’ve been inactive. I was in there with a good fighter who has been active and is hungry.
“I’m older and have to stay active to stay with these young guys. I’m not going anywhere. I have to stay active to see punches coming.”
MARCUS BROWNE
“My performance was definitely a statement to everyone in the light heavyweight division – watch out. We’re here!
“He was standing straight up and my trainer said to hit him with a nice straight jab. I threw the 1-2 and then I followed up.
“I took my time and just let it come.
“My trainer Gary Stark told me to come around the arms and that’s what I did. You can see it.”
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PBC on NBC was promoted by DiBella Entertainment
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.comand www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KidChocolate @K9Boxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @LouDiBella, @FoxwoodsCT and @Swanson_Comm,

SUPERMAN SOARS ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SPIKE

 
ADONIS “SUPERMAN” STEVENSON PUMMELS TOMMY KARPENCY TO RETAIN LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CROWN
Toronto (September 11, 2015) – It’s been 30 years since a world championship title fight was fought in Toronto – and the exuberant crowd at Ricoh Coliseum welcomed boxing back with hard-hitting action on the main televised card of the Premier Boxing Champions on Spike.

“Superman” Adonis Stevenson (26-1), the light heavyweight world champion put his coveted belt on the line in front of his fellow Canadian countrymen against the gritty American challenger Tommy Karpency (25-4-1). Attempting to be kryptonite to “Superman,” Karpency was out-classed by the stronger and quicker Stevenson. In the first round, Stevenson began his onslaught with a big left that buckled Karpency’s legs. A straight left hand at the end of round 2 knocked Karpency to his knees. With a boisterous partisan crowd behind him, Stevenson finished Karpency off with a devastating TKO at 21 seconds of round 3.

A jubilant Stevenson chanted “Oh Canada!!” before calling out champ Sergei Kovalev. “C’mon Kovalev – it’s time to fight for the unified title.”

In the co-feature, Errol Spence Jr. (17-0) put his unblemished record on the line in the opening bout of the main card against the dangerous South African welterweight Chris Van Heerden (23-1-1) riding an 9-fight winning streak.

Spence, a 2012 Olympian, showed off his world- class pedigree by pounding his opponent with brutal body shots and a flurry of jabs that nearly closed Van Heerden’s left eye. After two knockdowns in the 7th round, Spence’s dominating performance was punctuated by a flurry of punches that led referee Alan Huggins to stop the fight at 50 seconds of round 8.

Spence will now set his sights on moving up the ladder in the talented welterweight division occupied by big names such as Keith Thurman and Shawn Porter.

When asked in the ring what is next for him he responded “I want to fight anyone in the top 10- I think I deserve it.”

Also on the televised card, former light welterweight champ “Vicious” Vivien Harris (32-10-2) from Brooklyn, NY battled undefeated prospect Prichard Colon (15-0) of Puerto Rico. Colon showed off his power as he dominated his veteran opponent – ending the bout at 1:03 in the 4th round with a punishing knockout. The rising star, who honored the victims of 9-11 on his robe, is bullish on his future.  “It’s great to put a win over a former world champion on my resume.”

FORMER WORLD CHAMPION DEVON ALEXANDER TAKES ON ARON MARTINEZ AS PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN COMES TO GILA RIVER ARENA IN GLENDALE, ARIZONA WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 9 P.M. ET/6 P.M. PT

 
PLUS! FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION LEE SELBY MAKES HIS U.S. DEBUT AGAINST FORMER THREE-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION FERNANDO MONTIEL
 
TICKETS ARE ON SALE TODAY AT 12 P.M. PT!
 
GLENDALE, AZ. (September 11, 2015) – Former two-division world champion Devon Alexander “The Great” (26-3, 14 KOs) returns to take on battle-tested Mexican Aron Martinez (19-4-1, 4 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight clash as Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on ESPN heads to Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona on Wednesday, October 14.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with the U.S. debut of featherweight world champion Lee Selby (21-1, 8 KOs) as he takes on former three-division world champion Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel (54-4-2, 39 KOs) in the co-main event.
“I’m very excited to return to the ring and I’m anxious to show people that I’m still an elite fighter,” said Alexander. “This is a huge opportunity to be on primetime and I’m going to make sure everything is in order at camp so I’m there 100 percent mentally and physically on fight night.”
“I’m very grateful for this opportunity to fight on such a big stage against a great fighter in Devon Alexander,” said Martinez. “Arizona has a huge Mexican boxing community and I look forward to the support from their terrific fans.”
“I’m looking forward to my USA debut in Arizona on ESPN,” said Selby. “It’s been my dream since I was a young boy to win the world title and then to box in a major fight in the U.S. I have the upmost respect for Fernando Montiel, he’s a three-time world champion and we all know over here in the UK how tough the Mexican fighters are. I know the U.S. fight fans appreciate the top fighters and I am sure I can win them over on 14th October with my skill, style and technique.”
“I am very happy to have an opportunity to win another world title,” said Montiel. “I am going to make the most of this and leave everything I have in the ring. I will leave that ring with Lee Selby’s belt and with the fans cheering my name.”
“This is a big fight for Arizona and the first world title fight in Arizona since 2004,” said Scott Maling, Owner of Ring Pros Promotions. “I was lucky enough to promote that last world title fight and I can’t wait to bring the boxing fans of Arizona a terrific night of action from start to finish, featuring some of the top talent in the sport.”
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Ring Pros Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25 for general admission, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale today at 12 p.m. PT. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.gilariverarena.com.
Doors at Gila River Arena open at 3 p.m. PT with the first bout following shortly after.
 A world champion at 140 and 147-pounds, the 28-year-old Alexander makes his 2015 debut looking for a performance that will vault him back into title contention. Alexander owns victories over Marcos Maidana, Lucas Matthysse, Randall Bailey and Lee Purdy. The St. Louis-native is 4-2 in world title fights with his most recent victory coming via a dominant decision over Jesus Soto Karass.
The 33-year-old Martinez is coming off of a controversial decision loss to Robert Guerrero, in a fight where Martinez dropped Guerrero for the second time in his career and appeared within seconds of being awarded a stoppage victory. Born in Mexico, but fighting out of Los Angeles, Martinez has fought professionally since 2004 and racked up 10 straight victories between 2009 and 2012.
Born in Barry, Wales, Selby picked up his world title with a dominant technical decision over previously undefeated Evgeny Gradovich in May. The 28-year-old owns a slew of victories over previously unblemished fighters including Joel Brunker, Ryan Walsh, Viorel Simon, Corey McConnell and Stephen Smith. The slick-boxer will be making his first start on U.S. soil on October 14.
The Mexican veteran Montiel has won world titles across three weight classes throughout his long career that began as a 17-year-old in 1996. He won his first world title in 2000 over Isidro Garcia and went on to have title winning performances over Pedro Alzacar, Ivan Hernandez, Z Gorres, Ciso Morales and Hozumi Hasegawa. Born in Sinaloa, Mexico, Montiel is riding an eight-fight win streak heading into this match and returns to fight in the U.S. for the first time since 2011.
 For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.gilariveraarena.com.Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TheRealDevonA, @LeeSelby126 @ESPNBoxing, @GilaRivArena and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions  www.facebook.com/GilaRiverArena.com and www.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.

UNDEFEATED FEATHERWEIGHT PROSPECT OMAR DOUGLAS TAKES ON BRAULIO SANTOS  IN TELEVISED OPENER OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS  ON FS1 & FOX DEPORTES TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 FROM THE CONVOCATION CENTER AT CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA IN CALIFORNIA, PA.

 
PLUS! LOCAL FAVORITE MONTY MEZA CLAY IN UNDERCARD ACTION
 
LOCAL WELTERWEIGHT RISING STAR SAMMY VASQUEZ
HEADLINES AGAINST JOSE LOPEZ
9 P.M. ET/6 P.M. PT
 
CALIFORNIA, PA. (September 11, 2015) – Undefeated super featherweight Omar “Super O” Douglas (14-0, 11 KOs) takes on Puerto Rico’s Braulio Santos (12-3, 10 KOs) in the televised opener of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and FOX Deportes Tuesday, September 15 from the Convocation Center at California State University of Pennsylvania in California, Pa.
This bout replaces the originally scheduled opening clash between Thomas Williams (18-1, 12 KOs) and Umberto Savigne (12-2, 9 KOs), after Savigne was forced to withdraw from the fight due to an injury sustained during training.
Undefeated local welterweight rising star Sergeant Sammy “The Who Can Mexican” Vasquez (19-0, 13 KOs) headlines and takes on Jose “Piston” Lopez (25-3, 15 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight matchup with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Local fan favorite Monty Meza Clay (36-5, 22 KOs) will also enter the ring for an eight round lightweight.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Team Vasquez Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $60 and $30, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available atwww.eventbrite.com. To charge by phone call Team Vasquez at (724) 797-8694.
The local flavor continues with 31-year-old Pittsburgh heavyweight Jason “Ironman” Bergman (24-11-2, 16 KOs)  in a six-round bout plus undefeated 18-year-old Milton “El Santo” Santiago (11-0, 3 KOs) out of Philadelphia facing Mexico’s Alvaro Ortiz (7-3, 5 KOs)in six rounds of super lightweight action and 21-year-old Philadelphia bornStephen Fulton (6-0, 3 KOs) facing Samuel Rodriguez (3-0, 3 KOs) from the Bronx in a six-round super bantamweight bout.
Rounding out the action is 22-year-old Stephan Shaw (4-0, 3 KOs) out of St. Louis squaring off against 34-year-oldRandy Easton (3-7-1, 3 KOs) of Sanbury, PA, in four rounds of heavyweight action and 24-year-old Pittsburgh-native Amonte Eberhardt (2-0, 1 KO) in a four-round welterweight bout.
Unbeaten 24-year-old Douglas of Wilmington, DE, is ready to transition from prospect to contender. While an adept technical boxer, the powerful Douglas always seeks to end bouts early, with five of his 11 knockouts coming in the very first round. His most recent victory came by first round stoppage over Daniel Attah in April. He will be opposed by 25-year-old Santos out of Carolina, Puerto Rico.
An exciting fighter representing Pittsburgh, Meza Clay is looking to get back to the form that saw him reel off eight-straight wins between 2010 and 2014. The 34-year-old has picked up victories over Alan Herrera, Eric Aiken and Emmanuel Lucero over a career that spans back to 2002.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @SammyV2112, @TopDoggJr, @FoxSports1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.

DANNY O’CONNOR FACES GABRIEL BRACERO IN REMATCH ON  PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBCSN SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 FROM THE LOWELL MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM IN LOWELL, MASSACHUSETTS 8 P.M. ET/5 P.M. PT

 
Plus! Unbeaten Jonathan Guzman Takes On The Exciting Danny Aquino & Featherweights Ryan Kielczweski & Rafael Vasquez Collide
 
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
 
LOWELL, MA. (September 11, 2015) – Popular Massachusetts’ welterweight Danny “Bhoy” O’Connor (26-2, 10 KOs) takes on Brooklyn’s Gabriel “Tito” Bracero (23-2, 4 KOs), in a 10-round rematch of their 2011 bout won by Bracero, as the main event of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBCSN Saturday, October 10 from the Lowell Memorial Auditorium in Lowell, Massachusetts with televised coverage beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
The evening’s co-main event will feature undefeated super featherweight knockout artist Jonathan Guzman (19-0, 19 KOs) battling exciting brawler Danny Aquino (17-2, 10 KOs) in a 10-round bout and rising local prospect Ryan “The Polish Prince” Kielczweski (23-1, 7 KOs) takes on the exciting Rafael “Dynamite” Vazquez (16-1, 13 KOs) in a featherweight bout.
“I’m excited to be fighting at a building with great boxing history such as the Lowell Memorial Auditorium,” said O’Connor. “I won the Golden Gloves there and I can’t wait to fight there again. I’m also excited to avenge my first loss against Gabriel Bracero. I’m so ready for this!”
“This is a huge fight for me and my career,” said Bracero. “I only have one thought in my mind and that’s victory. Danny is a tough opponent and on a winning streak right now. The best ‘Tito’ Bracero will be there October 10. I beat Danny before and I plan to do so again, in his backyard, even more convincingly. My best days are still ahead of me and you will see that come October 10.”
“I’m excited for the October 10th PBC on NBC Sports Net from the Lowell Memorial Auditorium,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “All three TV fights are super competitive matchups with the outcomes in doubt. In the main event, Boston’s Danny O’Connor will rematch with Brooklyn’s Gabriel Bracero in an attempt to avenge a close decision loss. Undefeated junior featherweight puncher Jonathan Guzman will try to keep his record perfect against dangerous contender Danny Aquino. The opening bout features another 50/50-type matchup as Quincy’s Ryan ‘The Polish Prince’ Kielczweski faces hard-punching, world-ranked Rafael Vazquez from Brooklyn.”
The city of Lowell is one rich in boxing history and is the hometown of Massachusetts legend and three-time Fight of the Year participant “Irish” Micky Ward. “It is an honor to have this fight happen in my hometown,” said Ward. “Danny O’Connor is so ready for this opportunity. He is focused like I’ve never seen him before.”
Part of Lowell’s deep boxing history are the future Hall of Famers who have fought in the city as amateurs, including Rocky Marciano, Sugar Ray Leonard, Mike Tyson &Marvelous Marvin Hagler.
“Bringing a big fight to Lowell is incredible,” said Ken Casey, Founder of Murphys Boxing, “Lowell is such a great fight town and it is Micky Ward’s hometown. For Danny O’Connor to have the chance to avenge his first loss in his own backyard with all his fans cheering him on is going to be a site to see.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Murphys Boxing, are priced at $125, $85, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. Special student, veteran and senior ticket prices also available. For tickets visit www.lowellauditorium.com
A National Golden Gloves champion who has fought as a pro since 2008, O’Connorgets a chance to avenge his defeat to Bracero when they square off October 10. The 30-year-old is coming off of three straight knockout victories over Michael Clark, Andrew Farmer and Chris Gilbert. Fighting out of Framingham, Massachusetts, O’Connor is looking to impress in a fight on his home turf.
Bracero has won nine of his 11 fights since defeating O’Connor in 2011 and hopes to see a repeat of that performance on October 10. Fighting out of Brooklyn, the 34-year-old owns victories over Dmitry Salita, Pavel Miranda and Jermaine White. He will be going into unfriendly territory for his first pro fight in Massachusetts.
Owner of a perfect knockout percentage, Guzman looks to build off of his last three fights, all knockouts coming in the New England region. Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the 26-year-old fighting out of Lawrence, Massachusetts faces the toughest challenge of his career and will look to make his mark as a 122-pound contender.
The 25-year-old Aquino made his mark with a hard fought victory over the previously undefeated Kielczweski in April and returns to New England in hopes of taking down another unbeaten prospect. Born in Mexico, Aquino fights out of Meriden Connecticut and owns victories over Jhon Alberto Molina and Coy Evans and will hope to make it three wins in a row on October 10.
A runner-up in the 2008 National Golden Glove tournament, the 25-year-old Kielczweski has become a staple fighting in his home state of Massachusetts. Born and raised in Quincy, he bounced back from his first defeat to deliver a first round knockout over Anthony Napunyi in May. Another tough challenge awaits “The Polish Prince” as he looks to prove his world title worth.
Brooklyn’s Vazquez has kept a busy schedule in 2015 and will return for his fifth fight this year when he challenges Kielczweski. While the 37-year-old Vazquez is ranked highly in the world rankings at number seven and is seeking a world title opportunity, fame and glory are not his top priorities. With an autistic daughter and a wife diagnosed with cervical cancer, Vazquez fights for his family. Getting a late start to boxing, Vazquez, who lost both of his parents at an early age and endured a stint in prison as a wayward youth, turned pro in September 2010. He has since donated portions of his purses to autism research, while also holding fundraisers to help raise awareness.
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For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, www.lowellauditorium.com and www.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,  @DiBellaEnt, @DropkickMurphys, @MurphysBoxing, @DOC_Boxing, @TeamBracero, @NBCSports and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports,www.Facebook.com/DropkickMurphys,www.facebook.com/MurphysBoxingandwww.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS (PBC) ELITE FIGHTERS TO THANK FANS AT BOX FAN EXPO

 
PBC Boxers Will Lead Fan Appreciation Effort and Distribute Exciting PBC Series Fall Schedule on September 12th

 
Las Vegas (September 11, 2015) – Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) has announced that several top fighters will make personal appearances at its Box Fan Expo booth (Booth 21) on Saturday, September 12th at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The meet-and-greet opportunities are part of PBC’s ongoing commitment to elevating the boxing fan experience – providing all fans access to the best fights and fighters in the sport through partnerships with network partners CBS, ESPN, FS1, NBC, NBCSN, Spike, BounceTV, FOX Deportes and ESPN Deportes.
Fighters appearing at the PBC Booth will include undefeated current featherweight champion Leo Santa Cruz fresh off his extraordinary 12-round slugfest victory over Abner Mares, dubbed by many as a candidate for “Fight of the Year.”  He’ll be joined by undefeated welterweight champion Keith Thurman, considered by many a possible “heir apparent” to Floyd Mayweather, and his fellow welterweight star and former champion Shawn Porter.  Other top names appearing in the booth include undefeated welterweight Danny Garcia, undefeated lightweight title contender Rances Barthelemy, former light middleweight champion Austin Trout and former junior welterweight world champion Josesito Lopez. A special appearance will be made by retired two-time world welterweight champion Paul Williams. Other fighters may be added to the schedule for Saturday’s Expo.
PBC fighters will distribute the exciting fall schedule of PBC Series fights to attendees.
Boxers will be available for autographs and photos at the following times:
 
11:00 a.m.                  Austin Trout
 
11:30 a.m.                  Rances Barthelemy
 
12:30 p.m.                  Leo Santa Cruz and Keith Thurman
 
1:30 p.m.                    Danny Garcia and Shawn Porter
 
2:30 p.m.                    Paul Williams and Josesito Lopez
The PBC booth opens at 10:00 a.m. and closes at 5:00 p.m. and, throughout the day, will feature highlights of PBC fights and giveaway of souvenirs to thank PBC Series and boxing fans for their support.
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo, which includes other fighter appearances as well as the sale of boxing merchandise and memorabilia, are available online athttp://www.boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com.
For more information on Premiere Boxing Champions, including fighter profiles and a schedule of upcoming PBC fights on network television, visit http://www.premierboxingchampions.com.
*Schedule and fighters subject to change: updates will be shared at the PBC booth.

HIGH STAKES: MAYWEATHER VS. BERTO FINAL UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS AT MGM GRAND IN LAS VEGAS

 
This Saturday, September 12 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
Live on SHOWTIME PPV®
 
Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/SHOWTIME®
Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions
LAS VEGAS, Nev.  (Sept. 10, 2015) The fighters who will appear on the stacked, action-packed “HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto” undercard this Saturday, September 12 live onSHOWTIME PPV(8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) from the MGM Grand Garden Arena took part in their final press conference Thursday at MGM Grand.
In the three pay-per-view fights preceding Saturday’s main event between Floyd “Money”Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs) and Andre Berto (30-3, 23 KOs), Roman “Rocky” Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) will defend his WBO Junior Lightweight Title in a rematch against four-time world championOrlando “Siri” Salido (42-13-2, 29 KOs), Badou Jack “The Ripper” (19-1-1, 12 KOs) will make the first defense of his WBC Super Middleweight World Title against mandatory challenger “Saint” George Groves (21-2, 16 KOs) and former three-time world champion and Mexican power-puncherJhonny Gonzalez (58-9, 49 KOs) will be opposed by Puerto Rico’s Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo(25-4, 16 KOs) in a 10-round 130-pound match.
Former IBF World Champion Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith (27-7, 12 KOs) and longtime top-10 contender Vanes Martirosyan (35-2-1, 21 KOs), who will clash in a scheduled 10-round junior middleweight fight during  “COUNTDOWN LIVE: Mayweather vs. Berto” telecast live on SHOWTIME® (6:30 p.m./3:30 p.m. PT), were also in attendance.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC. are priced at $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300 and $150 and are on sale now. Tickets are limited to eight (8) per household for all ticket prices except the $150 ticket category, which is limited to four (4) per household. To charge by phone or with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
 
ROMAN MARTINEZ
“I understand that Salido is a strong fighter. We know each other well. That is why we trained very hard for this fight, even harder than for our first. I look forward to gaining this victory for all of Puerto Rico.
“The exposure for this fight is amazing; the entire world is going to be watching. We are so accustomed to each other and we understand that we have to put forth a tremendous performance on a card of this magnitude.
“I want to continue to be a world champion for all of Puerto Rico. I’m in peak condition and I’m ready to get the win.
“Salido can say whatever he wants. I know him and I was able to knock him down in the first fight. I’m confident I can go finish him.
“I understand why this fight is happening. Who wouldn’t want to see us go at it again? But I thought I clearly won the first time, and I am confident I will win again on Saturday.”
 
ORLANDO SALIDO
“You saw what happened the last time we fought. You know this is going to be a spectacular matchup. I know Rocky very well and I know he is a smart fighter. Last time I got out of my game plan. This fight, I’m focused and looking forward to a great fight.
“I’m a better fighter than he is. I know that Martinez is going to run, but I’m in great condition to seek him and get the victory.
“It’s about getting on the inside for me. Martinez is an intelligent fighter and he knows how to use his reach. If I can get inside his chest and attack the body I will get the win.
“It’s going to be the best fight of the night. We’re going to exchange blows and pick up where we left off. I’m treating this like it is the biggest fight of my career and I can’t wait to demonstrate my skills one more time.”
 
BADOU JACK
“I’m very excited for this fight. We had a tremendous camp. We’re ready to go. I don’t talk much. I’m all about fighting.
“Groves is absolutely not in my head. I’m focused and mentally strong on my task at hand. I won my biggest fight that I’ve had up to date, he didn’t. He has had two shots at the title and has lost them both.
“Groves got famous for getting knocked out by Carl Froch. He’s a good fighter, but I’m very comfortable that I’m going to beat him.
“I just stay focused on what I have to do. No one is getting under my skin.
“I’ve always believed in myself. Things happen in boxing. I worked hard and that’s how I got to this moment.
“I’ve always been the underdog in my opinion. I like it. It motivates me. I’m going to prove my worthSaturday night.”
 
GEORGE GROVES
“It’s great to be here. I’m happy to have my shot at the title. We’re ready. I’ve been traveling to Vegas to box since I was 13-years-old. Year after year I’ve always been successful out here, always with knockouts.
“British boxers have been doing well in the ring as of late, but there is no extra pressure or incentive.  We’re very prepared. We know what we need to know about Jack. We wish him luck, because he’s going to need it.
“It’s a huge fight for me with the title on the line. I’ve been involved with higher competition but I haven’t taken my eye off of Badou Jack. We’re looking forward to a good win on Saturday.
“Training up in Big Bear was great. The first week I realized the difference in the heat and altitude. But mostly I love being isolated. Out here it’s peace, I’m purely in camp. No other distractions.
“I’m confident of winning. I’m always confident of winning. The best way to describe this fight is that Badou Jack is a good fighter, but I’m a better fighter. I’m better than him at every phase of the game.
 
JHONNY GONZALEZ
“This is my second fight at 130 pounds and I feel much more comfortable, stronger, confident and secure than I did at 126.
“It is tremendous to be on this fight card. This is going to be a terrific fight. I’ve trained hard and I’m ready to go on Saturday. The reality is, this is the type of fight that can bring me a step closer to in another world title.”
 
JONATHAN OQUENDO
“The main key, whether I box or slug, is to fight smart.  I’m very excited for this opportunity. It means a lot to me to be on a card of this magnitude. I’m excited to weigh in tomorrow.
“When you have Mexico vs. Puerto Rico, you get a war. I have no doubt there will be blood in the ring. Jhonny Gonzalez is very experienced and was a great champion, and I thank him for taking this fight. I look forward to getting in the ring Saturday.”
 
ISHE SMITH
“When I fought Cornelius Bundrage for the title, I knew I had to win. I had a lot of pressure on me. There was no doubt I had to win. It’s the same thing now. Vanes is a good fighter, but I have to win. I’ve had to bring myself up from the bottom.
“All of the other promoters gave up on me, but Leonard Ellerbe and Floyd took a chance on me and I’ll always be grateful.
“Vanes is a good fighter. It’s going to be a hell of a fight. I have to win. I have no choice. “
 VANES MARTIROSYAN
“Ishe is a good fighter. He’s been in with a lot of tough guys. I have a lot of respect for him. It’s going to be a really good fight.
“It’s a blessing to be here. I had a really good camp and I’m excited that the fight is here. It’s great to be a part of a show like this.
“I can’t wait for this fight. You’re all going to see ‘The Nightmare’ on Saturday night.”
# # #
“HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto,” a 12-round world championship bout for Mayweather’s WBC and WBA Welterweight World Titles takes place Saturday, Sept. 12 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and sponsored by Tecate. The event will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV® (8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT). The co-main event will feature a rematch between Roman Martinez and Orlando Salido for the WBO Junior Lightweight World Title.  The Martinez vs. Salido fight will follow Mayweather Promotions’ own Badou Jack “The Ripper” making his first defense of the WBC Super Middleweight World title against mandatory challenger “Saint” George Groves. The Jack vs. Groves fight is presented in association with Team Sauerland. The first pay-per-view televised fight is a 10-round super featherweight showdown featuring Mexican power puncher Jhonny Gonzalez against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo. The event will be available in Spanish through secondary audio programming (SAP).
Mayweather vs. Berto will be shown on the big screen in theaters across the country via Fathom Events. For more information visit www.FathomEvents.com
For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.comwww.SHO.com/Sports andwww.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @AndreBerto, @BadouJack, @StGeorgeGroves, @Romancito77, @siri_salido, @jhonnygbox, @JonathanOquen @mayweatherpromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/FloydMayweather,www.Facebook.com/TheRealAndreBerto,www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

Team Tarver spent Labor Day feeding homeless & others at Salvation Army in Tampa

 

TEAM TARVER (L-R) – Jamil Thompson, Antonio Tarver, Angela Mitchell, Orlando Fernandez and Eboney De Costa.
Photo Gallery Below
TAMPA (September 10, 2015) — Team Tarver, led by five-time world champion and world heavyweight contender Antonio “The Magic Man” Tarver (31-6-1, 22 KOs), spent this past Labor Day serving more than 150 homeless, disabled and handicapped people, local military veterans, at The Salvation Army in Tampa.
“I really like the community service we’ve been doing lately because it makes me feel like I’m making a difference in people’s life who are less fortune then me,” Tarver said. “To know that my team seems to be enjoying it just as well makes this even more special for me.  I really appreciate them for taking part every time they’re called upon. I can’t wait until for our Turkey Giveaway and Christmas Toy Drive in Tampa/Orlando. If  any non-profit organizations or potential sponsors are willing to join Team Tarver, please don’t hesitate to visit my web-site at OfficialAntonioTarver.com as we continue to make a difference where it counts.”
Team Tarver’s next planned function will be a Turkey Giveaway prior to Thanksgiving.
For additional information, sponsorship inquires or to make a donation, please email officialteamtarver@gmail.com or visit its website atwww.OfficialAntonioTarver.com.
 
 
 

 
INFORMATION:
@AntonioTarver

UNDEFEATED POWER-PUNCHER JULIUS JACKSON TAKES ON JOSE UZCATEGUI TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 FROM SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS ON FS1 & FOX DEPORTES 9 P.M. ET/6 P.M. PT

 
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
 
SAN ANTONIO (September 10, 2015) – Undefeated power-puncher Julius “The Chef” Jackson (19-0, 15 KOs) squares off against the exciting Jose “Bolivita” Uzcategui(23-1, 19 KOs) in an 12-round super middleweight clash that headlines Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and FOX Deportes Tuesday, October 6 from The Dancehall in San Antonio, Texas with televised coverage beginning at9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
“With my father (former middleweight champion Julian Jackson) being who he is, my dream has always been to reach this level and then surpass this level,” said Jackson. “I’m working extremely hard for this opportunity and I’m ready for my shot.”
“I’m so excited for an opportunity to fight in the U.S. again and I plan on making the most of it,” said Uzcategui. “I will leave everything in the ring and give the fans a great show in San Antonio.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions, are priced at$282 table of four Seats, $109, $71, $38, and $22 including all fees (w/out fees $260, $100, $65, $35, $20), and are on sale now. To purchase tickets call Leija Battah Promotions at(210) 979-3302.
The son of famous power-puncher Julian “The Hawk” Jackson, the 28-year-old and his brother John were both 2008 Olympians for their native Virgin Islands. As a pro, Jackson fought primarily in the Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic and South America before making his pro debut in December of 2014. He owns victories over Jonathan Nelson, Nicolas Dario Lopez and Crispulo Javier Andino. He enters this fight on a nine-fight knockout streak.
Born in Venezuela, Uzcategui now fights out of Baja California, Mexico. The hard-hitter made a name for himself fighting in Mexico and knocking out seven of his first eight opponents. The 24-year-old will fight in the U.S. for a second time on October 6 and picked up his most recent victory in February by knocking out Daniel Eduardo Yocupicio in the first round.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @JuliusTheChef1, @LeijaBattahPR, @FS1, @FOXDeportes, @CowboysDanceHal and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.

Undefeated Jr. Lightweight Bienvenido Diaz to take on Victor Vasquez tonight at the Space at Westbury in Westbury, NY

Westbury, NY (September 10, 2015) – Tonight at the Space at Westbury in Westbury, New York, one of the newest members of the GH3 Promotions stable, undefeated Jr. Lightweight Bienvenido Diaz will take on Victor Vasquez in a bout scheduled for 4-rounds.

Diaz of Prospect Park, New Jersey was a late starter in boxing after a stint in Mixed Martial Arts, but has found the sweet science to be his calling.

Diaz, 2-0 with both wins coming via knockout, takes on Vasquez (3-1, 1 KO) of Yonkers, New York.

Diaz did not have much film on Vasquez, but he will come into the ring with a solid gameplan.

“Camp was great. I had great sparring and am prepared for this fight. I reall do not know much on Vasquez other than then he is tall. I am sure he will try to keep me at a distance, but I have been working on getting close,” said the 26 year-old Diaz.

Although Diaz has fought on GH3 Promotions cards in the past, this will be the first fight for Diaz as a signed fighter to the growing roster of Vito Mielnicki’s company.

“It is great to work with GH3 Promotions. Vito is a good guy and he has treated me well.”

“I am a former MMA fighter in the amateurs. I switched to boxing when my opponents continued to grab me as I tried to throw a punch. That is when I decided to box. I know that on Thursday, it will be a real exciting fight. I go in with the mindset that If I was a paying customer, I would not want to see a boring fight, so I give the give the fans what they want to see.

Diaz is managed by Pete Festa and Phil Shevack. He is trained by Aroz “Terrific” Gist.

Festa wants people to know that this isn’t the average MMA fighter turned boxer.

“Bienvenido is a great kid who unlike most of the fighters who switch sports, has learned his craft and continues to improve as a boxer. We always knew he can punch. He has improved dramatically with his boxing ability. I am looking to see the improvement on how his boxing ability sets up his power shots.”

Said GH3 Promotions president, Vito Mielnicki, “like all the GH3 fighters, we will move him aggressively. We have Diaz on September 26th and November 12th. He will be moved rapidly to see what he has. He is a solid kid.”

GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight Champion John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight’s Jerrell Harris & Keenan Smith,undefeated Super lightweight Bienvenido Diaz, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster & Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandez to the GH3 Promotions stable.