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boxing, Showtime Boxing

ANDRE BERTO LOS ANGELES WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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BERTO JOINED BY GEORGE GROVES & JHONNY GONZALEZ
AS THEY PREPARE FOR THEIR RESPECTIVE SHOWDOWNS
SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, LIVE ON SHOWTIME PPV
AT THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS
 
Click HERE For Photos From Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/ Mayweather Promotions
 
ALL ACCESS: MAYWEATHER VS. BERTO
Premieres Tonight, Aug. 28 on SHOWTIME®  At 10:30pm ET/PT

Click On The Link Below To Watch Episode 1 Preview
 
LOS ANGELES – (Aug. 28, 2015) – Two-time welterweight world champion Andre Berto (30-3, 23 KOs) participated in a media workout at the J.W. Marriott at L.A. Live as he prepares for the biggest fight of his career. In front of an enthusiastic crowd, Berto looked focused and in great shape, jumping rope and shadowboxing, as he looks to become the first fighter to defeat 12-time world championFloyd “Money” Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs), on Saturday, Sept. 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas live on SHOWTIME PPV® (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT).
 
In addition to Berto, top 168-pound contender George Groves and former three-time world championJhonny Gonzalez participated in the media workout as they prepare for their respective fights on theSHOWTIME PPV broadcast.
The training session was hosted by TV & CBS Radio personality Big Tigger and Emmy® Award-winning sports reporter Mark Kriegel and streamed in high definition across multiple platforms, including via satellite feed, YouTube and social media.
Promoted by Mayweather Promotions, the Sept. 12 four-fight pay-per-view telecast will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and is the sixth and final fight of a record-breaking deal between Mayweather and Showtime Networks Inc. SHOWTIME Sports® will support the event with the Sports Emmy® Award-winning series ALL ACCESS.
In world championship fights on the pay-per-view telecast, 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), and Badou Jack “The Ripper” (19-1-1, 12 KOs) will make the initial defense of his WBC Super Middleweight World title against mandatory challenger “Saint” George Groves (21-2, 16 KOs). The opening fight of the telecast will feature former three-time world champion and Mexican power-puncher Jhonny Gonzalez (58-9, 49 KOs) against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (25-4, 16 KOs) in a 10-round junior lightweight scrap.
Plus, former 154-pound world champion Ishe Smith (27-7, 12 KOs) will be opposed by longtime top-five contender Vanes Martirosyan (35-2-1, 21 KOs) in the 90-minute COUNTDOWN LIVE: MAYWEATHER vs. BERTO” preshow on Saturday, September 12.
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.
What Berto, Berto’s trainer, Virgil Hunter, George Groves, Jhonny Gonzalez and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe said Friday:
 
Andre Berto
“From an energy aspect I feel great. It’s my first time in a while coming into a fight with no injuries. This is the healthiest I’ve been since I can remember.
“At the end of the day, this fight was supposed to happen two or three times. Situations with me not taking care of myself and not taking opponents seriously caused it to happen. But styles make fights and we’ll see what the boxing fans say Sept. 12.
“I know that I’m still the same guy who people thought could have given Floyd problems a couple years ago.
“Victor Ortiz and Robert Guerrero both got fights with Floyd because they beat me. There must be something to that. They said ‘if he did something to Berto, he should get a shot at Floyd.'”
“We’re here. It’s my time to see him. He can have his ‘MayVinci’ code because we put in the work. The whole team is confident. I’m going to do what I do.
“We worked on a lot of different things at camp. I have the speed to keep up with him. I have more power.
“The thing with Floyd is, most guys he fights aren’t as athletic as he is. But I am.
“If you come at Floyd fast but don’t have a plan and don’t have good footwork, it’s too easy for him. If you have a guy that’s as athletic as him, it gives him problems.
“There is a lot more to me than just walking guys down. I have speed, I have power, I have a crazy uppercut, I can move to the side. There are a lot of ways I can get it done.
“I’m not going to watch his sparring. I don’t want to watch him driving his cars, none of that. I want to see him Sept. 12.
“This is my first time going into a fight without all the pressure on my back. I’ve always been the favorite in every fight. I don’t know what he’s feeling and I don’t really have to care about it.
“It’s a different mindset. Coming from where I come from, we always had to defeat the odds. We didn’t have what other people had. We had to work twice as hard for everything. To be noticed to be seen. Even back then it drove me to be the best that I can be. I wanted everyone to know I was somebody you had to watch.
“I’ve faced these odds my whole life. I was discounted two years ago when I was laying in the hospital. I’m constantly envisioning victory.
“All the hard work we’re putting in, it’ll all pay off fight night. It’s not just for me. I’ve been through doing things for me. I see what’s real now.
“I’ve prepared myself mentally to be in this position. People can say whatever they want. We’re focused.
“This is going to be for everyone who believes in the underdog.”
Virgil Hunter
“We have a unique opportunity right in front of us. We have a chance at history and to cement a legacy for my fighter (Berto).
“What is the key to winning this fight? (Berto) has got to want to win. He has to want it more. He holds the keys in his hand. You can plan as much as you want for tomorrow, but we don’t know whattomorrow will bring. We can only prepare.
“If (Berto) wins this fight, you’ll see me jumping up and down and it will be hard to compose myself. I’m usually pretty composed, but you might see me jump up and fall out of the ring and hit my head or something.
“No matter what happens, Floyd will always be considered one of the best ever. Win or lose, his legacy is cemented.
“There are similarities between Floyd and Andre Ward. They both started boxing as young boys, and were Olympians and are undefeated. There’s a lot of pressure that comes with being undefeated and they both have faced that.
“It’s not fair to the fight game to say this is a free shot and to go in there and say we have nothing to lose. We have everything to lose.”
George Groves
“Training camp has been going great. We’re fully acclimated to the time change and altitude. We’re performing very well in the gym and fulfilling the plan. I’m ready to rock.
“We’ve trained in the U.S. before. Last year we came over to spar with Gennady Golovkin. This time we’re out there for much longer and it has been very successful.
“I like training in the altitude and I expect it to help me on fight night. We got used to it over the weeks of camp and now it’s time to bring the extra energy to the ring.
“I’m fully immersed in this fight with Badou Jack. Everyone wants to know about the future plans, but I leave that up to the promoters. My main concern is winning that WBC belt.
“I carry power. I have good hands and foot speed. I can control the fight from anywhere. The mistakes that Badou Jack makes, I will take advantage of.
“I want to announce myself as the best fighter in the division and I’m planning on doing that Sept. 12. There won’t be any question marks. After I win this fight, I’ll have proof.
“I’m a valuable commodity in the UK and it’s about time I started building my brand in the states. This is a huge opportunity being on the Mayweather card. The undercard will not be overlooked this night.
“Every fight is more important than the last. It doesn’t matter who you fight, it can affect you in a big way. I have a style that will naturally engage with the fans. People like to see me fight. I look to take the opponent out and that will be the same on Sept. 12.
“Once Badou Jack leaves an opening, I will take it. I plan to look very good doing so.”
Jhonny Gonzalez
“I feel great. I’ve been preparing at the gym a lot and I feel very good about this fight.
“I am ready to win in this division and compete for a world title right away.
“I am fighting so quickly after my last victory because I am very confident. I want to stay active. I want to gain what I had before the loss to [Gary] Russell. I’m moving forward.
“I know that my opponent is a strong fighter. He’s going to throw a lot of punches but I’m going to bring it right back at him hard.
“Being on the Mayweather card is a blessing. I’m excited to be in Las Vegas with the whole world watching.
“I’m honored to be fighting on the Mexican Independence weekend. I’m ready to represent for my Mexican people. I’m going to leave everything in the ring.
“What I want out of this fight, is an opportunity to win a world title. This is why I train so hard, to win world titles and fight in big fights.
“I believe in my power punches. I’m intelligent on the inside and the outside. I believe in myself as a fighter and that is why I’ll win.”
Leonard Ellerbe
“I think Floyd shocked everyone by sparring on his media day on Wednesday. It wasn’t planned. You just never know what you’re going to get at any Mayweather event. He’s always going to do something to attract attention and put on a show.
“There’s no fear in Virgil (Berto’s trainer) or Andre checking it out and finding something that they can use against Floyd. Virgil is an excellent trainer and they will be prepared for everything for this fight.
“Everything is right on track with the promotion. Doing a media workout like this is very important to keep the publicity up and to market the event and let the fighters interact with the fans. We have a tremendous undercard on Sept. 12
“The SHOWTIME All Access episodes have been excellent and are getting the fans and media excited for this fight.”
# # #
“HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto,” a 12-round welterweight world championship bout for Mayweather’s WBC and WBA 147-pound titles, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC.  The event will take place Saturday, September 12 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and will be televised by SHOWTIME PPV.  The undercard features a WBO Junior Lightweight World Championship fight, which is a rematch between Roman Martinez and Orlando Salido.  Also featured on the PPV telecast will be a WBC Super Middleweight title bout between Badou Jack and George Groves, which is promoted in association with Team Sauerland. The opening PPV bout pits former world champion Jhonny Gonzalez against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round super featherweight bout.
 “ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. Berto” Episode 1 premieres this Friday, Aug. 28 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.
For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @AndreBerto, @BadouJack, @StGeorgeGroves, @Romancito77, @sirisalido, @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.
boxing

Zab Judah Headlines Night of GCP Boxing at The Space at Westbury on September 10

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On Thursday, September 10, promoter Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions and Super Judah Promotions, in association with GH3 Promotions and David Schuster’s Winner Take All Productions, will continue GCP’s “Championship Boxing” series with a world-class event, once again at The Space at Westbury in Westbury, New York.
In the night’s 10-round super lightweight main event, five-time world champion and former Undisputed World Welterweight Champion Zab “Super” Judah (42-9, 29 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York, will face Florida, via Barranquilla, Colombia’s Hevinson Herrera (18-11-1, 12 KOs).
This will be Judah’s first fight under his new GCP co-promotional banner. The charismatic former champion will be looking to get back into the mix of the world’s best in the division with an impressive victory.
In the co-main event, women’s multiple-time world champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (24-1, 18 KOs) of Brooklyn will face South Carolina’s Angel Gladney (8-11, 6 KOs) in a lightweight six-rounder.
Tickets are priced at Golden Ringside: $150, Ringside: $125 and General Admission: $60 and are available at Ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster locations, thespaceatwestbury.com, the Space at Westbury Box Office:516.283.5566, or by calling the GCP office: 212.851.6425.
And in the main supporting bouts, Queens, New York’s “Mean” Joe Greene (26-1, 17 KOs) continues his assault on the middleweight division with his second bout in two months, this one a six-round super middleweight battle vs. TBA.
Also, popular New York junior middleweight Tommy “The Razor” Rainone (23-6, 5 KOs) will go six rounds against Mexico’s Francisco Javier Reza (14-14, 11 KOs); while notable contender Jesus “Chuy” Gutierrez (13-0-1, 4 KOs) of Las Vegas will go six in the super lightweight division against TBA.
On the undercard, Miami’s Steve Geffrard (12-2, 7 KOs) will look to continue his 12-fight winning streak against Newark’s Cory Cummings (18-9, 13 KOs) in a light heavyweight 8-rounder; New York’s Dave Meloni (3-1, 1 KO) will take on Cincinatti’s 17-fight veteran Micah Branch in a super featherweight four; undefeated super featherweight Bienvenido Diaz (2-0, 2 KOs) of Prospect Park, New Jersey, via the Dominican will face Benjamin Burgos (2-12) of Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, over four or less rounds; and Philadelphia’s Samuel Teah (6-1, 2 KOs) will go four super lightweight rounds against Newark’s Rashad Bogar (4-­5-1, 2 KOs).
                                                            
“I am excited to be working with Zab Judah and David Schuster and being able to bring such a stacked card to the Space at Westbury,” said Greg Cohen. “We have a male superstar in Zab and a female superstar in Amanda Serrano on one show, plus some top contenders in action and some local up-and-comers. It’s a terrific event and I’m proud to put the GCP stamp on it.”
This event is event is sponsored by Westbury Jeep Chrysler Dodge Ram, The Red Roof Inn Plus and Modell’s Sporting Goods. The Space at Westbury is located at 250 Post Ave in Westbury, New York (Phone: 516.283.5566). On fight night, doors open at 6 pm and the first bout is at 7 pm.
About Greg Cohen Promotions
One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.
Founder and CEO Greg Cohen has been involved with professional boxing in various capacities since the late 1980s, honing his craft and establishing himself as a shrewd international boxing businessman.
Distinguished by his ability to spot and develop raw talent, Cohen first made promotional headlines for his expert guidance of, among many others, former WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout, who Cohen helped guide from unknown New Mexico prospect to elite pay-per-view level superstar.
In addition to Trout, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney.
Cohen currently promotes multiple world champion and boxing superstar Zab Judah, women’s boxing superstar Amanda Serrano, and former world champion Kendall Holt, as well as current world-rated contenders including top undefeated cruiserweight Lateef Kayode, long-time elite middleweight “Mean” Joe Greene, lightweight KO artist Ismael Barroso, top super featherweight Arash Usmanee, Canadian lightweight and TV action hero Tony Luis; WBA and five-time Irish National Amateur Champion, Dennis Hogan; and Australian lightweight prospect Josh King.
Greg Cohen Promotions has hosted world-class boxing events in the finest venues throughout the United States and the world and has also proudly provided talent and/or content for several television networks including CBS Sports Network, HBO, Showtime, ESPN, NBC Sports Network, CBS Sports Network, MSG and FOX Sports Net.
For more information, visit gcpboxing.com. Find us on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/GCPBoxing. Twitter: @GCPBoxing.
boxing

HERNANDEZ REMAINS UNDEFEATED WITH UNANIMOUS DECISION

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Photo By Team Hernandez
FRESNO, CA (August 28, 2015) – Last night during the Fight Club OC card at the “The Hangar” in Costa Mesa, California, super-welterweight prospect, Marcos “The Madman” Hernandez (7-0, 2 KOs) remained undefeated, winning an 6-round unanimous decision against Luis Alfredo Lugo (14-23-1, 5 KOs).
In the opening round, Hernandez wobbled Lugo with a powerful left hook, almost stopping the veteran of over thirty fights.  Lugo, surviving most of the fight, was hurt again in the sixth, but managed to finish the fight.  With the win, Hernandez who is managed by Al Haymon, feels he’s ready to get back in the ring as soon as possible.
“I felt great to get another win last night,” said Marcos Hernandez. “Everything is coming together with my career and I’m very thankful to Al Haymon and his team for all their efforts.  My boxing skills are getting sharper with every round.  With a few more fights, I’ll be ready to step up to eight round bouts.  I’m going to wait patiently for my next fight as I’m eager to step back in the ring.”
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION WEIGHTS, FINAL THOUGHTS & WEIGH-IN PHOTOS

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SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION

WEIGHTS, FINAL THOUGHTS & WEIGH-IN PHOTOS

 

Promising Heavyweight Trevor Bryan
Puts Unbeaten Record on Line Against
Veteran Derric Rossy in Main Event of Don King-Promoted Tripleheader

 

Tomorrow/Friday, Aug. 28, LIVE on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT

From Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC)

Across from the D Las Vegas in Downtown Las Vegas

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

LAS VEGAS (Aug. 27, 2015) – The six fighters who’ll be making their ShoBox: The New Generation debuts tomorrow/Friday, Aug. 28, live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) at Downtown Las Vegas Events Center(DLVEC), across from The D Las Vegas are set to go following Thursday’s official weigh-in outside the D on Fremont Street’s Stage 3.

 

In the 10-round main event of a Don King Productions-promoted tripleheader, promising up-and-coming heavyweight Trevor Bryan (15-0, 11 KOs), of Albany, N.Y., will put his unblemished record on the line when he faces his toughest opponent to date, the more experienced Derric Rossy (30-9, 14 KOs), of Medford, N.Y.

 

In the co-features, two-time Dominican Republic Olympian Juan Ubaldo Cabrera (23-0, 16 KOs), will take on the DeCarlo Perez (14-3-1, 5 KOs), of Atlantic City, N.J. in a 10-round middleweight bout and, in the opening bout of the telecast, Samoa’s Natu Visinia(11-1, 9 KOs) of Tacoma, Wash., will face Joey Dawejko (14-4-2, 7 KOs), of Philadelphia, in an eight-round heavyweight matchup.

 

Bryan weighed 227 pounds, Rossi 235½. Cabrera tipped the scale at 160 pounds, Perez 160½ and Visinia weighed 273 pounds, Dawejko 236¾.

 

Tickets are priced at $39.50, $59.50, $89.50, $149.50 and $500 for VIP Tables and are available at www.ticketmaster.com.

 

Here’s what the fighters had to say prior to the weigh-in:

 

TREVOR BRYAN

 

“This is my first time on television and I’m moving up in class so this fight is very, very important to me. It’s my headline fight, a chance for everyone to see the next new top heavyweight coming up.

 

“The purpose is to win, but I want to look good and nice on TV doing it.

 

“[Derric] Rossy is a veteran fighter, an extremely clever boxer and a good thinker. His technique is very good and he moves very well for a big man. He has a good jab and always make for tough fights.

 

“I have strength, youth and size in my favor but no way do I underestimate him. I take every fight very seriously. I train very hard. I spar with experienced fighters. I’ve been in shape for my whole four-year career. I take a fight, I’m right back in the gym.

 

“I know with his style that I will have to take it too him, work the jab and then go downstairs to the body. I have a plan and I have to stick to it or there will be a problem. Ideally, I can break him down and he will go down in the fifth or sixth.

 

“I could have fought a lot of other guys who are not as technically sound as Rossy, but it is time for me to step up. The foundation has been built. From Day 1 we knew where we were going, and this is it: the next step. There’s no pressure because I always knew this day was coming.

 

“I know the importance of preparation. I know how important discipline is. What we do daily has become routine. I try to be consistent in everything. I put in a lot of work behind the scenes.

 

“I’ve been hit before, but I keep coming. I got countered and dropped in my last fight, but I got right back up and took care of business. To touch the canvas and then bounce right back up and win was an invaluable experience.

 

“I feel I have good fundamentals and that I’m learning all the time. I started at the bottom learning, but now I am able to work on perfecting my fundamentals and conditioning even more. I like to fight, I like the action but I know I have to fight smart, especially against a guy like Rossy.’’

 

DERRIC ROSSY

 

“I’ve had so many close fights, wins and losses, but the competition I go in against is always really good. I’m not the biggest puncher so I know enough not to just go crazy. Some of my fights I thought were closer than they should have been, but I accepted them and moved on.

 

“I don’t know for sure why I’ve had so many close fights. I must be a tough fighter for judges because sometimes I don’t think they notice all the stuff I’m doing in there, the little nuisances. Maybe they think I box too much. Everybody wants to see a knockout but I am basically a boxer. I feel comfortable in what I’m doing, too, so I am not going to change.

 

“I feel strong and feel I still have plenty left. My job is to make opponents make a mistake. I’m still around to catch up with people. In this sport you need time to develop; for me it was my confidence that I first had to develop. I remember I won a couple of fights just being a good athlete, not a good boxer.

 

“I took my lumps, too. Some of my fights that went into the books as losses I just know I won. The heartache of losing was terrible but I had to get through it. I had to keep going. People say I’m stubborn and crazy for still doing this, but I keep coming back. I always had it in me, the confidence, but I had to bring it out.

 

“Experience is an advantage because I now feel there is no situation I cannot handle. This kid, [Trevor] Bryan, can punch. He’s been brought up the right way. But now he’s moving up two-three steps against a more experienced, seasoned fighter. His confidence comes from a shallow pool and so far it’s working for him. Let’s see how it goes Friday night.

 

“I’m a little surprised I got this opportunity. I’m a real fighter. My confidence is great now and I still believe I am a good fighter. I’m 35 but 35 isn’t old anymore for a fighter. My heart is still in this 100 percent. I want to win the big prize.

 

“I took a tough road to get here. It takes time to develop in this sport. Because I played football and other sports, I didn’t turn pro until I was 24 and had only 10 amateur fights. So I’ve done it the hard way. It’s not the way I preferred, but it is what it is.

 

“From what I’ve seen I think the key is to give him lots of feints and angles and take away his jab. Bryan is long and tall. I need to make him as uncomfortable as possible and my experience will go a long way in making that happen. I’m totally looking forward to this fight.’’

 

JUAN UBALDO CABRERA

 

“I feel good and my weight is good. Some guys get lost in the shuffle after they turn pro and that is me. That is why this fight is so important. It’s my opportunity to show the world what I can do.

 

“It was very hard for me to turn pro after my amateur career. I was such a big star they [Amateur Boxing Federation] wanted me to stay amateur for as long as I could. They never gave me permission to go pro. So I had to get a visa on my own and come to the United States.

 

“I’ve been a pro the last 10 years and it has been very tough. I had managerial problems, guys taking money from me; it really delayed my progress. I never lost my desire to fight even though I had to deal with so much outside the ring. I didn’t get overly discouraged although I could have after getting taken advantage of.

 

“I feel good now with Don King as my promoter. I’m happy to be fighting again and to be able to dedicate myself fully to the sport. I won a decision in my last fight but I know I can do better. I ate something bad two hours before the fight and I got sick. I was sick during the fight and couldn’t wait to get out of the ring once the decision was announced.

 

“I like to box; I feel I am a very good boxer with good movement. I play the angles in the ring. I feel I have a nice jab. I’ve never been badly marked or cut up, never really been caught with a great shot.

 

“With my experience I am ready for what [DeCarlo] Perez brings. I can switch to southpaw, adjust to any style. This is my first fight on television, my first real opportunity as a pro and want to do very well very badly. I know Perez starts slowly, I am going to give him a couple rounds to see what he’s got.

 

“Of course I would love to knock him out in one round but my mindset is to win, to do whatever it takes to get my hand raised. If he comes to fight, it’s going to be a great fight.’’

 

DECARLO PEREZ

 

“I’m always in the gym, always in shape. I’ve been looking for this kind of opportunity for a long time so I have always kept myself ready. With a win something big can come out of it.

 

“I know little about Cabrera except he was a two-time Olympian a long time ago. As long as I know how tall an opponent is, I can prepare mentally how he is going to measure up against me. I feel I can fight a variety of ways and I am ready for anything he brings. I have a little momentum going and I want to keep it going.

 

“This is by far my biggest opportunity on television. As a kid growing up under tough circumstances, living in two rescue missions, I sometimes wondered if I’d ever get to this point. So to do well and make a great impression will only fuel my dreams more to become a world champion.

 

“I’m known for slow starts but that won’t be the case tomorrow. He is 23-0 and that sounds good, but in this sport it doesn’t always come down to records as much as to the quality of your opponents. If you’re supposed to beat or KO a guy and you do, you’re only doing your job. It’s nothing to get excited about.

 

“This is my first fight outside of New York or Pennsylvania. I’m fighting in a city where some of the greatest fighters who ever lived have fought. For me, fighting in Las Vegas, fighting on television, is as good as it can get. I’m looking forward to putting on a memorable show for the fans.

 

“I think it will be a war. I know that’s his style, but that’s my style as well. I want to make it a war. With this opportunity my foot is now in the door. I’m going to kick out the door and open it.

 

“This is only the start for me.”

 

NATU VISINIA

 

“I’ve been training in Riverside [Calif.] where it is hot, but not as humid as it is Vegas. It is going to be a different kind of hot fighting outside tomorrow, but I’m from Samoa, so even though I’ve never fought outside I am not concerned.

 

“We really focused on this camp, turning up the cardio, getting a nutritionist and a strength-and-conditioning coach. Honestly, this is the best I’ve ever felt. I feel closer to 20-years-old than 30. Despite my weight, I feel lighter, more mobile.

 

“Being Samoan, I never back down from anything. I want to fight anybody, but you can’t just go in and slug and be successful your whole career. So I’m working on other aspects of my game.

 

“A lot of people in the business know me, but I’m sort of an underground guy. A lot of fans don’t know me but they will after tomorrow.

 

“I’ve fought two guys in my 12-fight career who were ranked in the top 25. How many didDeontay Wilder fight before he became champion? Part of that comes from my culture. You want to get it on, that’s fine by me. Put aside that macho, though and I know now you have to be moved the right way.

 

“I lost to [former world champion] Steve Cunningham, but I learned an invaluable lesson in that fight and it may actually have helped my stock more than hurt me. I did MMA before boxing and loved it, but nothing is like boxing.

 

“Outside the ring, Joey [Dawejko] and I are friends and it is always tough fighting a friend, but we both have families to feed and sometimes you just have to do it and put friendships aside.

 

“Joey is the shortest opponent I’ve ever fought but he is tough, real crafty and has that Philly style. For me, my natural instincts are to go right through him, but I plan to be patient and utilize my jab and legs.

 

“I feel I’ve progressed every fight and now this is my chance to showcase my skills. It’s time for me to get my name known.’’

 

JOEY DAWEJKO

 

“A lot of fighters, because of my height, think my style is too come straight to them, but I like to stand in the pocket and counter.

 

“Natu’s a big guy, for sure, but I think he’s slow and I can take advantage of that. He gets hit a lot so he may just walk into something. I know I can hurt him. I feel I can slip his punches and move. I won’t just stand there and let him hit me.

 

“I’ve fought much better [opposition] than he has. I fought unbeaten guys when I was just starting out, but I’ve since turned my career around. I fought [Derric] Rossy and beat him on one week’s notice, so I feel I have some experience.

 

“Philly fighters are the best in world. They have to grow up and come up the hard way. It can be a struggle. Everybody always underestimates me. They see this little short fat guy walking through the gym and wonder what he’s doing there.

 

“This is my ShoBox debut. It is something I have always dreamed of. I can’t wait for Friday.’’

 

# # #

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series,ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBoxphilosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 62 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

 

About the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center

Located at the corner of Third St. and Carson Ave. across from the D Las Vegas, the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center can accommodate up to 11,000 guests and features state-of-the-art stage, sound and lighting. The open-air design is inviting to both tourists and locals and offers the perfect spot for concerts, conventions and other large-scale events. Embracing the uninhibited spirit of Downtown Las Vegas, the new venue plays host to a line-up of curated events including premier concerts, food festivals and more. The venue is also the first entertainment arena in Las Vegas to accept Bitcoin as currency. For more information, visit www.dlvec.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @DLVEC.

 

About the D Las Vegas

The D Las Vegas delivers the fresh, energetic attitude and fun atmosphere synonymous with downtown Las Vegas. The new casino hotel boasts 629 remodeled rooms and suites and a unique two-level casino feature modern and vintage floors. Cocktails, beer and frozen beverages abound inside the casino at LONGBAR and on the Fremont Street Experience at D Bar. The D offers contemporary American fare at D Grill, Detroit’s legendary Coney Dogs at American Coney Island and premium steaks and authentic Italian dishes at Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse. The Showroom at the D Las Vegas features outstanding entertainment ranging from award-winning dinner theater and Broadway productions to music, comedy and more. Follow the D on Facebook and Twitter at @theDLasVegas.

boxing, ESPN Boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Leo Santa Cruz & Abner Mares Face-Off Before
PBC on ESPN Showdown Saturday Night at STAPLES Center
 
Click HERE For Photos From
Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LOS ANGELES (August 27, 2015) – With just days to go until their Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on ESPN showdown, Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz (30-0-1, 17 KOs)and Abner Mares (29-1-1, 15 KOs)faced-off at the final press conference at Club Nokia in Los Angeles Thursday before they enter the ring at STAPLES Center on Saturday, August 29.
Fighters participating on Saturday night’s undercard were also in attendance at Thursday’s press conference including exciting Mexican brawlers Hugo Ruiz (35-2, 31 KOs) andJulio Cesar Ceja (29-1, 26 KOs) who meet in a super bantamweight world title bout that opens the PBC on ESPN telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Joining them was undefeated Southern California prospect Alejandro Luna (18-0, 13 KOs) who also competes in undercard action, which begins in the arena at 2:05 p.m. PT Saturday.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $25, $50, $75, $150 and $300, not including applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale at AXS.com or by phone at 888-929-7849 or at STAPLES Center.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“This is my dream since I was small. I wanted to be the main event and I worked hard for it. I never gave up. I’m so excited to be here in my hometown seeing my hard work paying off.
“I’m well prepared. This is the hardest fight of my career but that’s why I train hard. These are the fights I want because these are the fights the fans want.
“We’re going to go out with the intention of knocking him out. If we can’t, we’re still going to make a great fight for the fans and find a way to get the victory.
“I need this win for my legacy and to get to that next level. I’m here to fight the best.
“Every fighter has a weakness. When we get inside the ring we’re going to find it. We have a great game plan and it’s going to show on Saturday.
“I’m very motivated by keeping my 0 intact. I want to show the world that I deserve to fight the best. If I beat Abner, I can get to that next level. I’m very motivated to go out there and get the win.
“I think the crowd will be 50-50. We’re both from here so it’s going to be crazy. At the end of the fight it’s going to be rowdy. We’re excited that they’re showing love and we’ll give them a great fight.
“I can’t wait for Saturday night to give everybody a great show. You don’t want to miss it.”
ABNER MARES
“I think I’ve done enough talking. I’ve talked about how I’m going to beat him and I know I’m going to get it done.
“It’s here. I’m ready to put it to work. I’m going to do what I know how to do, which is fight and give it my all.
“I’m blessed to be here. I’m excited to be fighting at STAPLES Center. It shows all the hard work I’ve put in.
“I’m not worried about the crowd and who they’re rooting for. I’m there to make everybody a believer. It’s going to be an amazing atmosphere and I can’t wait.
“I’ve definitely faced tougher opponents than he has. I’ve been in against legitimate champions. I’m taking him to deep waters.
“My loss is completely forgotten. In life you have obstacles, especially in this sport. I’m over it. I’m back. This is where I want to be. When I fight guys the level of Leo Santa Cruz it brings the best out of me.
“It’s time. It’s time to give everybody a “Fight of the Year”. There’s no doubt. I’m going to go in there and have fun.”
HUGO RUIZ
“I’ve worked very hard and conditioned myself to be my very best. This is what I’ve dreamed about since my pro debut. I made my debut eight years ago and this has always been on my list of goals and now I have that opportunity.
“My opponent is a great fighter. I’m a great fighter. This is everything that I covet. I want to thank Los Angeles for supporting these fighters.
“It gives me butterflies to think about the big stage on Saturday, but it is really an honor. I’m in spectacular condition to put on a great performance on Saturday.
“What Ceja and I will do on Saturday is put on a spectacular performance. I promise an amazing fight. The ring will be hot and ready for the main event.”
JULIO CESAR CEJA
“I’ve trained very hard and I’m very focused. My conditioning is fantastic. Being on this card means a lot because of two great Mexican warriors that are headlining.
“This is huge for three reasons: because it’s a world title, because I want to be victorious and because I am making my U.S. debut. This is all very important to me.
“The loss I suffered is in my past. I tossed it away and put it in the rear view mirror. My focus is strictly on this opportunity. I’m not going to have any excuses. I think I’m more motivated mentally, physically and spiritually than I was for my last world title challenge.
“I am glad that Hugo Ruiz is prepared because I am ready to put on a great performance Saturday. It will live up to the magnitude of this great event.
“It’s been an extensive training camp in Mexico and I’m focused and dedicated to showcasing my talents on Saturday.
“I can guarantee on Saturday the fans will get a great fight and a night of action.”
ALEJANDRO LUNA
“I’m really excited and grateful to be on this undercard. Mares and Santa Cruz are guys that I admire and look up to in this sport.
“It’s a little weird because I grew up in a cowboy family, but something about boxing captivated me as a kid. I went to the gym even though my dad didn’t want me to. I proved everyone wrong.
“I fought over a hundred amateur fights and now I’m here in this great position. My opponent is coming to fight. I’ve prepared myself one hundred percent. We’re here to give fireworks and you should expect fireworks.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
boxing, HBO Boxing

MIGUEL COTTO AND CANELO ALVAREZ NEW YORK CITY PRESS CONFERENCE PHOTOS & QUOTES

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Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Gene Belvins-HoganPhotos/Roc Nation Sports/Golden Boy Promotions

 

NEW YORK CITY (August 27, 2015) – Reigning WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs) and former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) were greeted by hundreds of chanting fans as they hosted a press conference in New York City on Wednesday, August 26 as part of their international four-city press tour ahead of their highly anticipated championship showdown in November.

 

The next mega-fight in the storied Puerto Rico vs. Mexico boxing rivalry will take place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View. At the New York City press conference held at the Wyndham New Yorker Hotel, Cotto, the first native of Puerto Rico to become world champion in four different weight classes, and Mexican superstar Alvarez were joined by their promoters and trainers to discuss what promises to be this year’s most epic battle.

 

Tickets for the mega fight are on sale now and are priced at $2,000, $1,750, $1,250, $650, $350 and $150, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased at the Mandalay Bay box office, ticketmaster.com, mandalaybay.com, all Ticketmaster locations or by calling (800) 745-3000.  Ticket orders are limited to four per person.

 

Below is what their fighters and teams had to say:

 

MIGUEL COTTO: WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion

 

“I have just one thing in mind and that is a victory on November 21.

 

“I’m going to get this victory for all Puerto Ricans around the world.”

 

 

CANELO ALVAREZ: Former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion

 

“The boxing world needs a fight like this. I’m planning to be well prepared to give the fans that fight.

 

“For me, it’s a big honor to fight someone like Miguel Cotto who has done it all.

 

“To make history, you have to fight and beat fighters like Miguel Cotto and I want to make history. I’m going to prepare like never before so that I can win this fight. ”

 

 

MICHAEL YORMARK: President and Chief of Branding & Strategy, Roc Nation

 

“Today we move one step closer on our journey toward an historic night.

 

“This is a match-up of epic proportions, can’t-miss action styles and passionate fans bases, as is evident by the crowd here today.”

 

 

OSCAR DE LA HOYA: Chairman and CEO, Golden Boy Promotions

 

“This is the most anticipated fight of the last few years. With this level of passion and excitement, Cotto vs. Canelo will live up to the expectations.

 

“When you have a Mexican and Puerto Rican inside the ring, you are going to get an explosion. The fans are going to get a real fight.”

 

 

FREDDIE ROACH: Hall of Fame Trainer, Seven-Time Trainer of the Year Award Winner and Trainer of Miguel Cotto

 

“I’m proud of everything Miguel has done. Don’t miss this fight. It’s going to be the biggest one of all.”

 

 

EDDY REYNOSO: Head Trainer of Canelo Alvarez:

 

“When you talk about Mexico and Puerto Rico, they have produced more than 200 champion fighters each. Miguel Cotto is a great champion and one of the greatest fighters in boxing history. Canelo is quickly headed down that road. Thank you to all the Mexican and Puerto Rican fans for your support today.”

 

 

HECTOR SOTO: Vice President, Miguel Cotto Promotions

 

“This is a great fight, the fight of the year—Mexico versus Puerto Rico. There will be no dancing, no hugging and no playing. This will be a real fight, the fight, on November 21st.”

 

 

CHEPO REYNOSO: Manager and Trainer of Canelo Alvarez

 

“There are three months until the fight. With all these fans here, you can feel the heat and the passion. It gives me goose-bumps.

 

“It’s great to see all these different people from different nations rooting for their fighters.

 

“To all my Mexican brothers, on November 21st we will be victorious and we will celebrate.”

 

 

BERNARD HOPKINS: Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner

 

“Out of all titles in boxing, the WBC is the godfather of titles to win.

 

“This is the middleweight fight. They agreed to rumble and that’s what matters. The winner of this will go on to a different level in his career and that is important for your legacy.”

 

 

MARK TAFFET: Senior Vice President, HBO Pay-Per-View

 

“Cotto vs. Canelo is that rare mega-fight that is as exciting as it is anticipated.

 

“This is truly a pay-per-view fight. It is a true fight that is worth your time and your money.”

 

 

MAURICIO SULAIMAN: President of the World Boxing Council

 

“Mexico and Puerto Rico will give us one of the greatest fights on November 21st. May the best fighter win.”

 

 

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tequila Cazadores. The Cotto vs. Canelo press tour is sponsored by JetSmarter. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.

 

Click HERE to access the Cotto vs. Canelo electronic press kit using password “CottovsCanelo”.

boxing, Showtime Boxing

“ALL ACCESS: MAYWEATHER vs. BERTO” EPISODE 1 CLIP LIFT: FLOYD MAYWEATHER PLAYS BASKETBALL WITH BOSTON CELTICS POINT GUARD ISAIAH THOMAS

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“ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. Berto” Episode 1

Premieres Tomorrow/Friday, August 28 At 10:30 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME®

 

Click HERE to watch, share and embed this video: http://s.sho.com/1KaltQB

 

Boston Celtics point guard Isaiah Thomas didn’t ease up on boxing’s pound-for-pound champion Floyd Mayweather when the two squared off on the basketball court.  Check out this clip lift from Episode 1 of the Sports Emmy® Award-winning series ALL ACCESSto watch Mayweather take a break from training as he prepares for what is expected to be the final fight of his career on Saturday, September 12 against Andre Berto.

 

“ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. Berto” Episode 1 premieres this Friday, August 28 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME, immediately prior to a live presentation of ShoBox: The New Generation.  HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto – Saturday, September 12, LIVE on SHOWTIME PPV® From MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

 

# # #

 

“HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto,” a 12-round welterweight world championship bout for Mayweather’s WBC and WBA 147-pound titles, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC.  The event will take place Saturday, September 12 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and will be televised by SHOWTIME PPV.  The undercard features a WBO Junior Lightweight World Championship fight, which is a rematch between Roman Martinez and Orlando Salido.  Also featured on the PPV telecast will be a WBC Super Middleweight title bout between Badou Jack and George Groves, which is promoted in association with Team Sauerland. The opening PPV bout pits former world champion Jhonny Gonzalez against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round super featherweight bout.

 

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @AndreBerto, @BadouJack, @StGeorgeGroves, @Romancito77, @sirisalido, @jhonnygbox, @JonathanOquen @mayweatherpromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FloydMayweather,www.Facebook.com/TheRealAndreBerto,www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

boxing, Showtime Boxing

FLOYD “MONEY” MAYWEATHER LAS VEGAS WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, LIVE ON SHOWTIME PAY-PER-VIEW
AT THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS
 
Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/SHOWTIME
 
ALL ACCESS: MAYWEATHER VS. BERTO
Premieres This Friday, Aug. 28 on SHOWTIME®

Click On The Link Below To Watch Episode 1 Preview
 
LAS VEGAS – (Aug. 27, 2015) – Floyd “Money” Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs) opened up the Mayweather Boxing Club on Wednesday for his last media day ever as he prepares for the last fight of a celebrated 19-year career. He will defend his WBC and WBA Welterweight World Championships against power-punching, two-time welterweight world champion Andre Berto (30-3, 23 KOs) on Saturday, Sept. 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, live on SHOWTIME PPV® (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT).
 
If triumphant, Mayweather would match the record of the late heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano, who retired in April 1956 with a record of 49-0.
Television camera crews, newspaper columnists, boxing writers, radio broadcasters, web reporters and photographers watched as boxing’s perennial pound for pound king and 12-time world champion in five weight classes went through approximately a 45-minute workout, which consisted of about 35 minutes of sparring.
Before a training session that was hosted by TV & CBS Radio personality Big Tigger and Emmy®Award-winning sports reporter Mark Kriegel and streamed in high definition across multiple platforms, including via satellite feed, YouTube and social media, Mayweather took questions from the media inside a specially-constructed tent in a parking lot outside the gym.
Promoted by Mayweather Promotions, the Sept. 12 four-fight pay-per-view telecast will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and is the sixth and final fight of a record-breaking deal between Mayweather and Showtime Networks Inc. SHOWTIME Sports® will support the event with the Sports Emmy® Award-winning series ALL ACCESS.
In world championship fights on the pay-per-view telecast, Roman “Rocky” Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) will defend his WBO Junior Lightweight title in a rematch against four-time world champion Orlando “Siri” Salido (42-13-2, 29 KOs), and Badou Jack “The Ripper” (19-1-1, 12 KOs) will make the initial defense of his WBC Super Middleweight World title against mandatory challenger “Saint” George Groves (21-2, 16 KOs). The opening fight of the telecast will feature former three-time world champion and Mexican power-puncher Jhonny Gonzalez (58-9, 49 KOs) against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (25-4, 16 KOs) in a 10-round junior lightweight scrap.
Plus, former 154-pound world champion Ishe Smith (27-7, 12 KOs) will be opposed by longtime top-five contender Vanes Martirosyan (35-2-1, 21 KOs) in the 90-minute COUNTDOWN LIVE: MAYWEATHER vs. BERTO” preshow on Saturday, September 12.
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.
What Mayweather, Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe, WBC Super Middleweight World Champion, Badou Jack and Mayweather Promotions’ Ishe Smith said Wednesday:
Floyd Mayweather
“Berto can fight. He’s a two-time champion. He’s hungry. He comes to wage a war. There is never a dull moment when he fights so I expect a hell of a fight out of him. We’ll all see how it plays out.
“My last fight, all you guys put [Manny] Pacquiao on a pedestal and look what happened. I went in there and did what I needed to do, which is win.
“This fight, no matter who the opponent, somebody would have something critical or negative to say. Some people are never satisfied. But I’m satisfied.
“All 48 of my fights have been hard. None have been easy. All played a major key. It’s the ‘Mayweather Era.’ I feel that every fighter is an artist and they all take pictures their own way. I’m just one of the very best artists.
“I’ve truly been blessed. I’ve taken my time, kept my eye on the prize and done what I’ve had to do. So I’m able to make a choice when to retire. Most fighters really couldn’t.
“Boxing has always been work to me, a job. If I could say anything to a youngster taking up boxing it would be to “be smart and not take a lot of punches. It’s called the sweet science for a reason. Hit and not be hit, make a lot of money without taking a lot of punishment. That’s what it’s about.
“Nobody knows what the future holds, but right now, I’m cool and comfortable and having no  second thoughts at all about retirement. I had a good career, I won every world title, but boxing is wear and tear on the body. It’s time to hang ’em up. I’m looking forward to working with some up-and-coming kids, going on walks, and taking vacations.”
Leonard Ellerbe
“All people are saying is that Berto is 3-3 in his last six fights but Pacquiao was 3-3 in his last six fights, too. Cotto has lost two of his last five fights. But they’re both headed to the Hall of Fame.
“We know Berto is coming to fight, that he is coming to win and shock the world. There’s no way Floyd takes him lightly. He is working just as hard for this fight as he did the previous 48.
“Floyd is my friend, we’re family, but I commend and applaud him for doing what he’s done, what he’s accomplished, how successful he is, how successful he’s been from 1996 to now.
“It’s truly remarkable. To be able to walk away on his own terms, to follow his own game plan, is unbelievable. At 38, he’s got a boatload of money in the bank, all his faculties and he did it his way. This is the American Dream.
“Floyd could fight as long as he wants, if that were what he wanted to do. People don’t understand what goes into his craft. He trains around the clock. He’s given his life to his career. He’s ready to ride off on to the next phase of his life. He’s earned that right.
“We made a commitment and we are following his contract. Besides, how much is enough? How much can one ask of somebody? How much more can he make?’
“This will be Floyd’s last fight. I’m very excited for him. He’s done it his way. He’s had an illustrious career and I know he’s very comfortable with what he’s been able to accomplish.”
Badou Jack
“Honestly, I think this fight could steal the show and will be the fight of the night. This will be very, very entertaining.
“Groves is definitely a good, tough fighter, He has a lot of speed, a lot of heart. I respect him. . He fought Carl Froch twice. But I’m not Froch and don’t fight like Froch. We have different styles.
“This is my first defense and I’m very excited about it, but I have always maintained an underdog mentality, and that will never change. I’m trying to stay humble. I’m still the same guy but by becoming a world champion it has only made me work even harder.
“I’m still learning, working hard. I know I can’t look past anyone. There are a lot of potential really big fights in the future – and I want to fight the best no matter if it is GGG, Andre Ward, whoever.
“But right now my only focus is on the game plan and executing it. I’m really looking forward to fighting [George] Groves and winning on Sept. 12.”
Ishe Smith
“I’m not going to make any predictions. I’m just going to go out and do what I do and that’s give 100 percent.
“I will say this, though, if he thinks he is going to knock me out, like he’s saying, it’s going to be a very entertaining fight.
“I won a world title as a B-side, but I feel I’m the A-side in this fight. I’ve fought the best in the division for years and years, I’ve sparred with the best.
“Martirosyan is a good dude and has a nice family, but he hasn’t been in with guys like I have. Guys that are better and hit a lot harder than him. I’ve never been down. I’ve never taken an eight-count. I’m 34 years old and never been hurt and he says he’s gonna stop me. That’s just crazy.
“I’m betting on my chin, that’s for sure. He couldn’t knock out [Jermell] Charlo in his last fight. He made all kind of excuses for losing. The reason he lost was because he lost to a better fighter.
“If he wants to go for the KO, fine; if that’s his focus. For me, I’m not thinking KO. I’m just thinking winning.”
# # #
“HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto,” a 12-round welterweight world championship bout for Mayweather’s WBC and WBA 147-pound titles, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC.  The event will take place Saturday, September 12 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and will be televised by SHOWTIME PPV.  The undercard features a WBO Junior Lightweight World Championship fight, which is a rematch between Roman Martinez and Orlando Salido.  Also featured on the PPV telecast will be a WBC Super Middleweight title bout between Badou Jack and George Groves, which is promoted in association with Team Sauerland. The opening PPV bout pits former world champion Jhonny Gonzalez against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round super featherweight bout.
 “ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. Berto” Episode 1 premieres this Friday, Aug. 28 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.
For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @AndreBerto, @BadouJack, @StGeorgeGroves, @Romancito77, @sirisalido, @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.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Campillo and Cuello Training in Paradise

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Sampson Boxing Establishes Training Camp in U.S. Virgin Islands
Two Madrid-based fighters have traveled to a newly established 340 Boxing/Sampson Boxing training camp in the island paradise of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to prepare for their upcoming fights.
Sampson Boxing’s own former light heavyweight world champion and IBF #13-rated Gabriel “El Chico Guapo” Campillo (25-7-1, 12 KOs) and WBC #11-rated Luciano Leonel “El Principito” Cuello (35-3, 17 KOs) are working hard at the 340 Boxing Gym in St. Thomas, USVI with trainer Matias Antonio Gonzalez and two world-rated locals, John “Dah Rock” and Julius “The Chef” Jackson.
On Saturday, September 12 at the Foxwoods Resort in Mashantucket, Connecticut, (and live on NBC) Campillo will face undefeated “Sir” Marcus Browne (15-0, 11 KOs) of Staten Island, New York, on the undercard of the Peter Quillin vs. Michael Zerafa event.
And on Tuesday, September 22, at the Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California, (and live on USA FOX Sports 1) Cuello will face undefeated Philadelphian Julian “J Rock” Williams (20-0-1, 12 KOs) for the WBC Continental Americas super welterweight title.
“I wish to thank our generous sponsor, Cardow Jewelers, for their help with establishing this ‘training camp in paradise,'” said Lewkowicz. “I also wish to thank my valued partners in the Virgin Island, 340 Boxing. The two fighters are getting excellent work with the Jackson Brothers and their team and will be in fantastic shape for their fights.”
Both Campillo and Cuello are managed by former world champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez.
Sampson Boxing now currently maintains training camps in Las Vegas, Boston, New York, Los Angeles, the Virgin Islands and a full camp in Cebu City, Philippines, for Jonel “Kid Pacquiao” Dapidran.
ABOUT SAMPSON BOXING

After a very successful run as a matchmaker and adviser, Sampson Lewkowicz switched over to the promotional side of professional boxing in January 2008.

Sampson Boxing has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious promotional firms, representing many of the world’s best fighters and most promising young contenders.

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America and Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, VS. and several international networks.
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Natu Visinia to take on Joey Dawejko on Friday, August 28 on ShoBox

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Nutley, NJ (August 27, 2015)— Heavyweight Natu Visinia will be looking for his 2nd consecutive victory when he takes on Joey Dawejko in an 8-round bout that will be part of a ShoBox: The New Genration card tomorrow night at the D Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. (11pm ET/PT on Showtime)
Visinia is co-promoted by GH3 Promotions and Final Forum Promotions.
Visinia is coming off a 4th round stoppage over Joshua Clark on May 13 in Hollywood, California.
With that win, the 30 year-old from Clinton, Illinois raised his mark to 11-1 with 9 knockouts.
Most fans were introduced to Visinia when he fought former two-time world champion Steve “USS” Cunningham on October 18, 2014.  That fight was Visnia’s only career blemish as he was stopped in seven rounds in a fight that in hindsight he should not have competed in.
“There was a lot going on around the fight.  It is well known that my trainer, Charles Bereal suddenly passed away from a heart attack just eight days before the fight,” said Visnia.
When asked if he had it to do all over again, Visinia may have not gone through with the fight.
“I learned in boxing that it is best to move the right way.  I am now fighting my 2nd top-25 guy.  At the point of the Cunningham fight, I had no business in the fight.” That being said, I did learn a lot in that fight.  I saw that I missed a lot of shots and my hands were low.  I also knew, I had to cut off the ring better.  But I have had a lot of top notch sparring and I know I have corrected all that.  I went int camps in Big Bear, California with Charles Martin and Andrey Fedosov.”
Now he looks to the showdown with Dawejko, which is another fight that is not an ideal situation as he has become good friends with his opponent.
“I have become good friends with Joey.  We met a couple years ago as we were both in a Wladimir Klitschko camp.  We continue to communicate on social media but going into the fight it is normal business.”
Against Dawejko, Visinia will have a size advantage and this is something he believes could be the difference in his favor.
“I will definitely have a reach advantage and I plan to utilize it.  My power and he is a tough little scrapper, it should make for a fun fight to watch.”
“I am glad to get another opportunity on national television.  People have been wondering what I have been up to as it is tough finding fights.  I have been training for the last six months.  There have been several big names  that are ahead of me in the rankings that have turned down fights, so I am happy for this opportunity.”
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, Heavyweight Natu Visinia, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster & Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandez to the GH3 Promotions stable.