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boxing

GH3 Promotions signs undefeated Jr. Welterweight Keenan Smith

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Nutley, NJ (August 7, 2015) – GH3 Promotions is proud to announce the signing of undefeated Jr. Welterweight Keenan Smith to an exclusive promotional contract.
Smith of Philadelphia has a record of 7-0 with 2 knockouts.
Smith turned pro in 2009 and is regarded as a highly skilled professional.
“It’s a pleasure to sign with GH3 Promotions.  I like the way they move their fighters and they are starting to do big things and I feel I fit in with that,” said Smith.
“I like the way Vito Mielnicki operates.  They have been getting a lot of television dates and I look forward to showcasing my skills throughout the country.”
Smith was 72-4 as an amateur and was a National Golden Gloves champion as well as a Jr. Olympic Olympic champion.
When asked about his short and long term goals, the 24 year-old Smith said, “I am looking for eight fights in the next year and soon after that I should be in position to crack the top-15.”
Smith should be off to a good start to reaching those goals as he has two fights scheduled in the next six weeks.
“I am looking to fight August 15 in Atlantic City and then I am penciled in to fightSeptember 18 in Las Vegas and then again in November on television.  That when I believe people will start to take notice that I am coming and establish myself as a legitimate contender on my to a world title.”
Said Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions, “We are very happy to have signed Keenan.  He has slipped underneath the radar and he has a ton of talent.  We plan to keep him extremely busy and we feel could have found a real gem in Keenan.  He had some problems that he has put behind him but I have had several conversations with him and I love the kid and his personalty.  He is a young man that learned from his mistakes.  He defeated Amir Imam 2 times in the amateurs.  He is a real quality kid we are very happy to have him. Dave Price and Doc Nowicki gave me the shot to work with them as partners with Keenan and its going to be fun and exciting. The kid could flat out fight”.
Keenan is managed by Doc Nowicki and Dave Price of D and D Management.
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 Jerrell Harris,undefeated Super Bantamweight Qa’id Muhammad, lightweight Oscar Bonilla, Heavyweight Natu Visinia, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell , Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster & undefeated Jr. Welterweight Keenan Smith to the GH3 Promotions stable.
boxing, Showtime Boxing

FLOYD MAYWEATHER & ANDRE BERTO ANNOUNCE SHOWTIME PPV EVENT TAKING PLACE SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 AT THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

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PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

FROM MAIN EVENT PLUS UNDERCARD FIGHTERS ROMAN MARTINEZ, ORLANDO SALIDO, BADOU JACK, 

GEORGE GROVES, ISHE SMITH & VANES MARTIROSYAN

 

Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

LOS ANGELES (August 6, 2015) – Accredited media members from around the world came out to the JW Marriott at L.A. Live in Los Angeles Thursdayas Floyd “Money” Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs) and two-time welterweight champion Andre Berto  (30-3, 23 KOs) officially announced their SHOWTIME PPV matchup with taking place Saturday, September 12 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

 

Also in attendance Thursday were pay-per-view undercard fighters featured on the stacked four-fight telecast. In a rematch of their epic April 11 world-title fight Roman “Rocky” Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) will defend his WBO Junior Lightweight title against four-time world champion Orlando “Siri” Salido (42-13-2, 29 KOs) while WBC Super Middleweight Champion Badou Jack “The Ripper” (19-1-1, 12 KOs) will take on his mandatory challenger“Saint” George Groves (21-2, 16 KOs). A fourth fight on the pay-per-view telecast will be announced soon.

 

Further undercard action features a super welterweight showdown between Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith (27-7, 12 KOs) and Vanes “The Nightmare” Martirosyan (35-2-1, 21 KOs), who were also in attendance Thursday to announce their fight.

 

Promoted by Mayweather Promotions, the 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 premiering Friday, August 28.

 

Here is what the fighters and participants had to say Thursday:

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, 12-Time World Champion

 

“I’ve had a remarkable career. I wouldn’t change anything. We all make mistakes. We live and we learn but I wouldn’t change anything.

 

“My dad is a remarkable trainer, Virgil Hunter as well. But when it comes down to it, it comes down to the two fighters in the ring.

 

“Andre Berto is a tough competitor, a former world champion. Every time he goes out there, he gives it 100 percent.

 

“I chose Berto because he’s very exciting. Andre Berto is going to push Floyd Mayweather to the limit. That’s one thing I do know.

 

“Berto always gives an exciting fight. If he gets knocked down he gets back up. He always give 100 percent. Fast hands, good boxer.

 

“I know what it takes when it’s a fight of this magnitude, because I’ve been fighting on pay-per-view for over 10 years. Berto is a very tough guy, he’s hungry and he’s not going to lie down.

 

“September 12th is my last dance. On September 13 I just want to sit back and watch some football. I want to watch my children get the best education. And I want to spend every day with my kids. These are the best days of my life.

 

“The difference between Andre Berto and Pacquiao is you guys [to the media] put hype behind Pacquiao. My job was to go out there and be Floyd Mayweather and be a chess player and that’s what I did. I found a way to win.

 

“Number 49, this is it. I’ve had a tremendous career. I’m older, wiser and my health is more important than anything. September 12 is my last fight. All 48 fights played a key, but number 48 was the most important.

 

“This dream all started with just two people. Me and my father. Just the two of us.

 

“When you look at the two divisions I fight in, there’s one man who stands all alone. I looked at the division and asked who’s always in a tough exciting fight, who has quick hands and who always gives it 100 percent, it was Andre Berto

 

“This is a guy I can’t overlook. He’s dedicated to the sport just like myself and he’s going to push me.”

 

 

ANDRE BERTO, Two-Time Welterweight World Champion

 

“It’s a long time coming. Now we’re here. Anybody that knows me has seen great things but at the same time they’ve seen me go through some real trials. What comes with that is a lot of hard work and perseverance.

 

“Two years ago I was in the hospital bed having surgery on my shoulder and not knowing if I could come back from that. At the end of the day it was a blessing. We stayed focused and now we’re here.

 

“I know I’m going to come in there fast and strong. I’m 152 pounds right now. At the end of the day you’re going to see a kids who’s had his highs. Or who’s had his falls. And now we’re right back to making it happen.

 

“This is a fight that I felt Floyd still wanted to make happen. Him coming off of the Pacquiao fight, of course it’s easy for people to downplay me. I can’t worry about that and I’m not worried about that.

 

“Have you ever seen a boring Andre Berto fight? At the end of the day we work our butt off, I’ve been working for a long time. Right now, the harvest is coming. We sowed the seeds and the time is now.

 

“I bring that rare combination of speed, power and explosiveness to the table. The last person he bought with that combination was Zab Judah. I’m younger, I’m hungry; I’m strong and fast. I’m focused on what I’m coming to get.

 

“I felt like I went through what I went through for a reason. My time is now. There’s no better day than the present. Floyd is no stranger to me. We’re already deep into camp. You definitely do not want to miss this one.”

 

ROMAN MARTINEZ, WBO Junior Lightweight World Champion

 

“I’m so happy to be part of this great show. I’m preparing very well for this fight. Everybody who saw the first fight knows this was a war and this will be the same thing. I’m in great shape and I’m ready to keep my belt.

 

“I need to work to the body more in this fight and see if I can finish him early this time.

 

“I’m in really good shape for this fight and I’ve been working to make adjustments to get the knock out but if we have to go the distance, we’ll be ready.

 

“I feel the rematch is a very exciting fight for television, the kind fans love.

 

“Everybody who saw the first fight knows it was a war and this will be the same thing. For me, it gives me a chance to leave no doubt in anybody’s mind that I am the champion.

 

“Salido can say what he says, I hope he’s in good condition because I am. In the end the best man will win this fight and that will be me.”

 

ORLANDO SALIDO, Four-Time World Champion

 

“Now I know his weaknesses, I am going to attack from the very first moment, I know what to do for the victory.

 

“I have to refocus mentally and physically, I’m not going to do much different other than to gain the victory this time

 

“I’m definitely going to regain this title for Mexico. I don’t feel it. I know it.

 

“I am very happy we are fighting in a neutral territory for our rematch, not in Puerto Rico again. I was very prepared for the first fight but the referee wouldn’t let me fight my fight. It seemed the referee was talking to me the whole 12 rounds. I was trying to focus only on my opponent, but I couldn’t.

 

“I’m very excited about this fight. This is a very special month for Mexico and in particular because of that, I’m going to get this victory.

 

“There’s always a very special rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico and I feel it, which is why I so badly want to win this title for Mexico.”

 

BADOU JACK, WBC Super Middleweight World Champion

 

“I’ve been in camp for about two months now. It’s been a very good training camp and I’m ready right now to fight. We still have a month to go and we’re ready.

 

“I’ve always been strong mentally but I get some extra confidence from having that green belt. You still have to stay humble and keep working hard.

 

“Groves is a pretty good fighter. I definitely think it’s going to be an exciting fight. I know he’s coming to get what’s mine and he’s coming to fight.

 

“He’s fought in the UK in front of a lot of people, but it’s a different stage in Vegas.

 

“I think I’m the overall better fighter. He’s going to try to knock me out and I’m going to try to knock him out. It’s going to be a great fight. I’m definitely going for the knockout.

 

“It’s a dream come true to be part of such a big event at MGM Grand for Floyd’s last fight, it’s a blessing.

 

“It’s no different to me being the main event or on the undercard. There will be even more people seeing my fight which is great.

 

“I just have to listen to my corner, be smart and be myself. If I do that I’ll walk out of there with my belt intact.”

 

GEORGE GROVES, Top 168-Pound Contender

 

“Everything in training camp has been perfect. We’re adjusting to the time difference and the altitude, which takes a couple of days, but everything is going really well. We’re ahead of schedule.

 

“We’ve been training all year for this fight so I’m feeling really good. I can’t wait to get in there and start punching.

 

“I think I know more than enough about Jack. I’ve seen him box live against Anthony Dirrell and I’ve studied him on tape. There’s a lot to like about him. I like the fact that he’s come to the U.S. and has made a home out here, there’s bravery in that. He’s latched on to a successful camp but ultimately you have to stand on your own two feet in the ring.

 

“I think I’m better than him in most aspects. If I go out and perform it’s an easy night’s work for me.

 

“It’s nice being on a undercard because I’ve dealt with the pressure of the main event. It’s nice to just be able to enjoy the fight. It’s a massive fight but the only thing I have to worry about it fighting. It’s a great opportunity for me.

 

“Rust is more mental than anything. You only hear a fighter talk about ring rust after a fight because it’s an excuse. We’re in the gym performing, sparring partners are getting beat up and there’s no excuse to not take it into a real fight.

 

“I’m pleased to be here in America. The third time going for the title will be lucky. We’ve prepared diligently. We’re ready for action.

 

“I’ve seen Badou up close and personal and as of yet, we can’t find anything that will cause me a problem. We plan to take the belt back to the UK.

 

“He’ll have comfort being at home and with his stable mates, but that all goes away when you step in the ring and a guy is trying to take your head off.

 

“Since I was seven years old I’ve dreamed of becoming a world champion. I’ve had ups and downs in boxing but it’s all come full circle.

 

“We have ourselves in a great place in training camp and I literally cannot wait to get in there.”

 

ISHE SMITH, Former Super Welterweight World Champion

 

“I asked for the toughest fights and the toughest challenges. I just want to fight the best. No matter what people think or what people say about me, we put together good fights.

We’ve had three champions at Mayweather Promotions so we’re doing something right.

 

“Vanes Martirosyan is a good fighter, I have nothing but respect for him. We’re putting together the necessary work in the gym to be successful.

 

“This fight could probably have been a main event somewhere but I’m happy to be a part of history and Floyd’s finale. I’m looking forward to a great night of boxing.”

 

VANES MARTIROSYAN, 2004 U.S. Olympian and 154-Pound Contender

 

“This is a big fight for me. My last fight I left in the judges’ hands and it went the other way.

 

“September 12 I’m not letting the judges get in my way. I’m going for the knockout and you’re going to see the best Vanes you’ve ever seen.”

 

VIRGIL HUNTER, Berto’s Trainer

 

“I’m glad to be a part of this historic event. It’s these moments that I reflect on what these young men go through. I’ve seen some of the great fighters that came before us. When I see some of the negative attitudes on this event, it’s from people who don’t know what those fighters go through at the gym.

 

“We’re told never to quit and to never give up. Being 48-0 is not an easy job. Particularly when you go back to day one and the obstacles and the hills you have to climb. That’s the spirit of the sport. I think once Floyd Mayweather is gone, we’ll feel the presence that this man had on the sport. I witnessed the same thing with Muhammad Ali.

 

“Andre Berto has overcome a lot in his life and I’m glad to have made his acquaintance. He epitomizes what a fighter is. He’s overcome and he’s earned this opportunity based off that.

 

“When you look at that pack in that welterweight division there’s only one that stands out, everyone else is in that pack.

 

“We intend to give this the best job that we’re going to give it. I think the champ himself respects that. We come to win, but we have to respect what he’s done for the sport.

 

“I’m glad to be a part of this. It’s a big thrill for me to be on the opposite side of legends and we’re anticipating everything turning out just right for us on fight night.”

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

 

“Welcome everyone to what will be Floyd Mayweather’s last kick off press conference of his amazing career. We are so excited to be working together to bring another stacked PPV card to boxing fans on SHOWTIME PPV.

 

“We have a great lineup with three world championships fights.

 

“Tickets will go on sale tomorrow at 10 am P.T./1 pm E.T. Prices range from $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300, $150.

 

“Once again Floyd will be putting his WBC titles and WBA title on the line. He will be facing Andre Berto, who will be looking to erase the 0 off Floyd’s record on September 12.

 

“‘Rocky’ Martinez vs. Orlando Salido will be a rematch of the Fight of the Year candidate from April. We know that will be a war.

 

“These are the kinds of challenges that Floyd needs to push him the way that he needs to be pushed. Andre Berto is a guy we were supposed to fight years ago. He’s a two-time world champion. We know he’s going to bring it. He’s going to give it his best. On September 12 we’ll see if it’s good enough.

 

“With the storied career that Floyd Mayweather has had, we are truly witnessing history. You better take a good look at him, because the thing’s he’s accomplished in this sport, we’ll never see again.

 

“We always knew that Floyd would be here, many years ago. When a guy accomplishes these kinds of things, everything he does is historic. When you look around the landscape, this gentleman right here is why the game has been changed.”

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager SHOWTIME Sports

 

“Boxing is a tough sport. It’s a tough sport to cover, it’s a tough sport to do business in and it’s a tough sport to make a living at. When you find someone who has been participating in the sport as a professional for 19 years, not just participating but practicing the sport at an elite level, one that’s rarely been seen, that’s something special.

 

“Two decades at the top of the sport, but you know what’s most impressive? It’s work ethic. Almost 20 years of a work ethic that is unmatched in the sport of boxing. Never in his 19 years has Floyd showed up less than 100 percent prepared, 19 years of unwavering discipline. Once he got to the top level, the work ethic didn’t change. That will be the legacy of Floyd in this sport, it is something I will likely never see again in my lifetime.

 

“It all comes to an end September 12, it’s our last opportunity to enjoy his incredible skill.

 

“Andre Berto has a chance to make history himself. If he does that, nothing else will matter. Berto will become known as the guy who finally beat Floyd Mayweather.

 

“One thing we know about Andre Berto, he’s never lacked for action. There’s only one way he knows how to fight and that’s all out aggressive.

 

“I’ve seen what Andre can do in the ring, I’ve seen him fight round after round. Fighters like Andre Berto will always be welcome, because no one fights harder than Andre Berto.”

 

MAURICIO SULAIMAN, WBC President

 

“I am very happy to once again represent my father and to see the WBC back in a great event. September 12 is a national Mexican holiday and Floyd has taken it over and represented Mexico so well. Andre Berto is a former WBC champion who will for sure bring a great challenge to Floyd Mayweather.”

 

*          *          *

 

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @AndreBerto, @BadouJack, @StGeorgeGroves, @sirisalido, @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, ShoBox

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO vs. ELVIN AYALA IEVGEN KHYTROV vs. NICK BRINSON REGIS PROGRAIS vs. AMOS COWART FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS

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ShoBox: The New Generation Tripleheader Live On SHOWTIME ® Tomorrow/Friday, August 7 At 10 p.m. ET/PT From Bally’s Atlantic City

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Credit: Rosie Cohe / SHOWTIME

 

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (Aug. 6, 2015) – Blue-chip Ukrainian middleweight prospect Sergiy “The Technician” Derevyanchenko weighed-in at 159 pounds and former title challenger Elvin “El Lycan” Ayala of New Haven, Conn. measured at 161 pounds during Thursday’s official weigh-in for the main event of this Friday’s ShoBox: The New Generation, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

 

Derevyanchenko (5-0, 4 KOs/World Series of Boxing: 23-1, 7 KOs)and Ayala (28-6-1, 12 KOs) will square off in the eight-round middleweight headliner of the televised tripleheader from Bally’s Atlantic City.

 

Undefeated power-punching middleweight Ievgen “The Ukrainian Lion” Khytrov (10-0, 9 KOs) tipped the scales at 159 pounds and upset-minded Nick “The Machine Gun” Brinson (17-3-2, 7 KOs) of Rochester, N.Y. measured at exactly the same, 159 pounds, for their eight-round middleweight matchup.

 

In the opening fight of the telecast, undefeated knockout artists Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (14-0, 12 KOs) of New Orleans, La. will take onAmos “2Smooth” Cowart (11-0-1, 9 KOs) of Groveland, Fla in an eight-round junior welterweight showdown. Both, Prograis and Cowart measured at 139 pounds each.

 

Tickets for the event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Fight Promotions Inc., are currently on sale and are priced at $120 and $60. Tickets can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. ET.

 

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

 

Sergiy Derevyanchenko

“I have a lot of respect for him, he’s a tough opponent. I had a ten-week training camp and I’m ready for whatever game he brings. I’m not taking him lightly, this is a step up in class for me and he’s a really good fighter—he outclassed Ronald Gavril back in March, that’s no joke. But I’m not concerned because I feel I have faced tougher opposition in the past.

 

“I’m training in Brooklyn and I have sparred with really good boxers, Daniel Jacobs and Frank Galarza among them. Jacobs is a world champion, and let me tell you, it’s not easy to spar with a world champion, they know what they are doing.

“I’ve been sparring with Danny [Jacobs] for almost a year now. He’s very technical and very slick and so am I, so we are the perfect sparring match. My trainer says that to watch us spar is like watching chess. Every move counts, every punch matters. It’s all part of a calculated strategy. I love it.

 

“Some might argue I lack of experience, but I don’t feel that way in the least. I’ve been in the ring so many times, that I feel like home when I fight. I feel I’m right where I belong.”

 

Elvin Ayala

“I know I’m the underdog here, but so I was when I fought [Ronald] Gavril in Las Vegas last March. With four days’ notice and against the odds, I got the decision. I thought I was going to get robbed, but I won. So, I’m not too worried about being the underdog here, because it doesn’t mean anything. Anything can happen.

 

“On paper, Derevyanchenko has five fights, but he is way more experienced than that. In the amateurs alone he had more fights than me in as a pro and amateur combined. Every time you step in the ring, you leave something, but you gain some knowledge on fighting. So, he has a lot of experience and I’m not sleeping on him at all.

 

“I’m ready for Derevyanchenko. I know he’s going to come forward and I’m going to stand up and box. I don’t have a recipe or a specific strategy, I’m just going to read him and decide my course of action. Every fight is different, so sticking to one plan is not really an option. My plan is to read him and to respond to what he does with the best possible strategy.”

 

Ievgen Khytrov

“Some criticize my last performance against Aaron Coley, but I was coming from three back-to-back fights and I was physically exhausted. I won, but my performance it was not my best, I couldn’t even get my combinations going. This time around I’m better conditioned, a lot bigger and a lot stronger. I’m in the best shape of my life.

 

“I’m hungrier than my opponent and that’s an advantage for me. See, American fighters are a little bit in their comfort zones with comfortable gadgets and easy access to training and easy access to everything. In Eastern Europe, we don’t have that, so if you are lucky enough to get access to training or even an opportunity, you do your best and you try to break through. You work hard and don’t let opportunities slip away.

 

“Nick [Brinson] is good opposition, but I have no doubt I’m better than him.”

 

Nick Brinson

“I actually asked for this fight. I looked for it because Khytrov is the right style for me. We are tailor-made for each other.

 

“I’ve been in camp for thirteen weeks, I’m right on point with weight, I’m just ready to go.

 

“I know Khytrov is going to be on my face from the get go. He’s just like that, he stands there and he fights with all he has. Ha throws and throws, and that’s what I like about him. I know how to counter it. I know how to defeat him.

 

“My division is hot and I want to keep on moving. This is a tough test, but I know I can ace it.”

 

Regis Prograis

“I’m not concerned about Prograis. I fought bigger and stronger men. I feel quite comfortable and I’m confident I’ll come out victorioustomorrow. I know he’s not going to be a walk in the park, but I have what it takes to defeat him and I know it.

 

“This is my television debut, and my family and everybody around me is excited to see on T.V., on SHOWTIME. I’m in the big leagues now. It feels good, but I don’t let it get into my head. I’m focus on my opponent and on bringing my “A” game tomorrow night.”

 

Amos Cowart

“This is a big stepping stone for me. If I win, I move forward and upward, and if I lose—I know I won’t—it won’t hurt me, because I’d be losing to a guy that is as good as me, really tough opposition. So this is a win-win situation for me.

 

“I know I’m the smaller guy here. I’m moving up in weight, but I’m at that time in my career that I need to be tested to know where I’m at and to know what’s next. So, I welcome the challenge and I tell Prograis to watch out, because he might go down quicker than he thinks.”

 

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Chuck McKeanproducing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

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 ShoBox philosophy 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.

 

boxing

LGM Promotions Press Conference Photos plus full card announcement

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LGM Promotions back with another card onSaturday, August 15 at Pershing Field Ice Rink in Jersey City, New Jersey

SPECIAL GUEST–MIGUEL COTTO IN COLLABORATION WITH PUERTO RICAN DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL AND JERSEY CITY RECREATION DEPARTMENT
For Immediate Release

Jersey City, NJ (August 6, 2015)-This past Friday at the Isla Bonita Restaurant

 in Jersey City, New Jersey, LGM Promotions held a press conference in conjunction for a special night of boxing that will take place on Saturday, August 15 at Pershing Field Ice Rink.
To help celebrate the weekend, Puerto Rico’s only 4-division world champion and future Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto has been confirmed as a special guest that will be in attendance on August 15.
The card will be headlined by a pair of 6-round bouts.
In one co-feature, undefeated Heavyweight Tyrell Wright (7-0-1, 5 KO’s) of Jersey City, NJ will take on Jacob Chavez (4-3, 3 KO’s) of Las Vegas.
In a rematch of a spirited draw that took place on March 14, Tyrone Luckey (6-4-2, 5 KO’s) of Middletown, NJ will fight Jose Ortiz (3-2-2, 1 KO) of Jersey City, NJ in a Lightweight bout.
In a four round bouts:
Hakim Bryant (3-0, 2 KO’s) of Asbury Park, NJ will take on Jimmy Ellis (1-2) of South Carolina in a Jr. Middleweight bout.
Leon Johnson (1-0, 1 KO) of Newark, NJ will fight Alando Pugh (1-5-1, 1 KO) of Washington, DC in a Heavyweight bout.

Brayon Rendon (1-0, 1 KO) of Jersey City, NJ will fight pro debuting Abdel Vera in a Jr. Welterweight fight.

It will be a battle of pro debuting Jr. Lightweights when Tyquan Boyd of Newark, NJ faces Wilfredo Ceballos.
Willy Harvey of Plainfield, NJ will take on Quian Davis in a battle of pro debuting Heavyweights.
Caleb Hernandez (1-0) of New Jersey battles pro debuting Jordan Rosario in a Welterweight bout.
Edson Soto (1-1, 1 KO) of North Bergen, NJ fights Alshamar Johnson (0-1) of Vineland, NJ in a Jr. Middleweight bout.
Eddie Edmond (3-4-2, 1 KO) of Newark, NJ will fight Quincy Brown (1-3, 1 KO) of Millbrook, AL in a Middleweight bout.
Tickets are priced at $125 per person at a ringside table; $65 for Ringside; $55
for General Ringside; $35 for General Admission.
Tickets can be purchased by clicking:  www.lgmpromo.eventbrite.com or by calling201-314-8251

Doors open at 6 PM ; 1st Bell at 7 PM

The Pershing Field Ice Rink is located at 807 Summit Ave.  Jersey City, NJ
boxing, CBS Boxing

FORMER WORLD CHAMPION ANTHONY DIRRELL SQUARES OFF  AGAINST MARCO ANTONIO RUBIO ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON CBS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 AT 4 P.M. ET/3 P.M. CT/ 1 P.M. PT FROM AMERICAN BANK CENTER IN CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS

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PLUS! JAMIE MCDONNELL & TOMOKI KAMEDA BATTLE IN REMATCH OF 

PBC ON CBS BRAWL FROM MAY

 

Tickets On Sale Now!

 

CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS (August 6, 2015) – Former world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (27-1-1, 22 KOs) takes on Mexican brawler Marco Antonio “El Veneno” Rubio (59-7-1, 51 KOs) in a super middleweight showdown on Sunday, September 6 from the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas with televised coverage on CBS Sports beginning at 4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT/1 p.m. PT.

 

The co-main event of the evening will see bantamweight world champion Jamie McDonnell (26-2-1, 12 KOs) face the exciting Tomoki “El Mexicanito” Kameda (31-1, 19 KOs) in a 12-round world title rematch of their May 9 CBS Sports fight that saw McDonnell survive a third round knockdown to win by the score of 114-113 on all three judges’ scorecards.

 

“I’m ready to get back in the ring and prove that I’m still one of the most dangerous men in the game,” said Dirrell. “Rubio is a tough guy but I’m coming to knock him out and eventually get my title back. ‘The Dog’ is coming to Texas looking to inflict some pain.”

 

“I’m very excited to face Anthony Dirrell on September 6,” said Rubio. “This is a tremendous opportunity for me and I’m going to leave it all in the ring. I promise a great fight for all the fans that come out in Texas.”

 

“I am delighted to be going back to the states and facing Kameda again,” said McDonnell. “The first fight was brilliant, he’s a class act and I wish that the first fight had gone on even longer. People wrote me off before the first one but I was always confident that I would beat him and I am even more confident that I will do it again. If I start well this time I think I will stop him.”

 

“This is the fight I wanted and I’m thankful to have the opportunity to rematch Jamie McDonnell,” said Kameda. “I thought that I won the first time, but this time I will leave no doubt. I can’t leave it up to the judges this time, my plan is to dominate.”

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are priced at $109, $93, $49, $38 and $15, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com, the American Bank Center Box Office or by calling Leija Battah Promotions at (210) 979-3302. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

 

Doors open at American Bank Center at 12 p.m. CT and will feature a full day of exciting undercard action.

 

Dirrell has seen more adversity than most throughout his career as his time in boxing has been seriously jeopardized twice, first in December 2006 when he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma and was sidelined for 20 months and again in May 2012 when he broke his lower left leg and left wrist in a motorcycle accident. The Flint, Michigan-native never let that hold him down as he kept winning fights and working his way up the professional ranks. In 2014 he won his first championship when he defeated defending champion Sakio Bika. He will be looking to impress as he takes on the tough and rugged Rubio on September 6.

 

The 35-year-old Rubio is one of the most experienced fighters around and will look to add another big name to his list of victims throughout his 16-year career. Rubio owns victories over David Lemieux, Carlos Baldomir, Jorge Cota and Rigoberto Alvarez across a career that has seen him challenge for world titles on three occasions. Born in Durango, Mexico, he will be fighting close to home when he enters the ring in Corpus Christi.

 

Yorkshire, United Kingdom’s McDonnell has been on a tear since 2008 with 18 consecutive wins. He became a bantamweight world champion with a victory over Tabtimdaeng Na Rachawat and later successfully defended against Javier Nicolas Chacon before coming over to America and defeating Kameda in May. In that fight, McDonnell survived an early knockdown at the hands of Kameda and used his length and activity to earn the decision victory.

 

Kameda announced his arrival stateside after a vicious knockout over Pungluang Sor Singyu in July 2014 in Las Vegas. That knockout was Kameda’s second bantamweight title defense after he won the belt from Paulus Ambunda in 2013 after spending most of his career fighting in his native Japan and Mexico. The 24-year-old followed up his U.S. debut when he defeated Alejandro Hernandez in Chicago via split decision. He will look to prove that he should have been awarded the decision against Jamie McDonnell in their first fight on May 9 fight.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comand www.americanbankcenter.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing @AnthonyDirrell, @MAVenenoRubio, @JamieMcDonnell1, @TomokiKameda, @SHOSports,  @WarriorsBoxingProm, @LeijaBattahPR, @AmericanBankCtr and @Swanson_Comm,

become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions andwww.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo.

boxing, UK Boxing

OPEN LETTER FROM JOHN O’DONNELL TO SAM EGGINGTON

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O’Donnell says “Man Up Sam and don’t be a bottle job”

 

Dear Sam,

 

I am writing to openly challenge you to defend your titles against me on October 17th. I fully appreciate that you may not want to do this as you know you will lose and will want to pick an easy touch but man up and at least when you lose you will have shown you’re a fighting man!

 

As it stands I am going to have to beat the guy who beat you, Dale Evans, in an eliminator for the British title. You know I will beat Dale and probably you will find an excuse to vacate when this happens rather than face me.

 

Sam it’s all about levels and I am levels above you. I will take you to school and give you a boxing lesson but at least you will learn from it.

 

You seem to lack an opponent for October 17th. Ask your promoter Eddie to give my team a call. We are waiting for the phone to ring. I will even give you a rematch clause if you want to be beaten twice in a row.

 

You have done really well coming back and its great to see a young man progress but the time has now come to face a real contender, someone who is hungry to go all the way. Glenn Foot was too small for you, Joseph Lamptey was out of his depth and Shayne Singleton had a built up record.

 

I am a former Commonwealth champion. Man up Sam!

 

All the best

 

John

boxing

Loaded undercard taking shape for August 28 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC

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Brandon Bennett takes on Jonathan Maicelo in 10-round Main event
For Immediate Release

 

Washington, DC (August 6, 2015) On Friday night, August 28 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in the nation’s capital of Washington, DC, King’s Promotions will present a spectacular night of boxing that will feature some of the best talent in the United States.

In the main event, Brandon Bennett (19-1, 8 KO’s) will square off with former world title challenger Jonathan Maicelo (21-2, 12 KO’s) in a Lightweight bout scheduled for 10-rounds.

A terrific undercard is taking shape that will feature some of the best prospects in the country.

In 10-round Bouts:

Phil Jackson-Benson (15-2, 14 KO’s) of Brooklyn, NY will take on Antonio Guerrero (8-5, 4 KO’s) of Sucumbios, Ecuador in a Super Middleweight bout.

2012 U.S. Olympian Jamel Herring (12-0, 7 KO’s) will fight an opponent to be named in a Lightweight bout.

Robert Easter (14-0, 11 KO’s) of Toledo, OH will take on Osumanu Akaba (32-8-1, 25 KO’s) of Accra, Ghana named in a Lightweight bout.

In 8-round bouts:

Demond Nicholson (13-1, 13 KO’s) of Laurel, MD battles Antonio Baker (8-12, 4 KO’s) of Fayetteville, NC in a Middleweight bout.

David Grayton (11-0, 8 KO’s) of Washington, DC will fight Jose Valderrama (4-10, 3 KO’s) of Arecibo, Puerto Rico in a Welterweight clash.

Immanuwel Aleem (13-0, 9 KO’s) of Richmond, VA. will fight Milton Nunez (28-14-1, 25 KO’s) of Baranquila, Colombia in a Middleweight fight.

In 6-round bouts:

Kareem Martin (5-0-1, 3 KO’s) of Washington, DC battles Anthony Prescott (5-6-2, 2 KO’s) of Cherry Hill, NJ in Welterweight bout.

2012 U.S. Olympian Raynell Williams (8-0, 4 KO’s) of Cleveland, OH takes on Jose Miguel Castro (5-5, 3 KO’s) of Carolina, Puerto Rico in a Lightweight tilt.

Patrick Harris (6-0, 4 KO’s) of Washington, DC will take on an opponent to be named in a Lightweight bout.

Jamontay Clark (6-0, 3 KO’s) of Cincinnati, OH will fight Donald Sanchez (2-2, 1 KO) of Albuquerque, NM in a Welterweight fight.

Leo Hall (6-0, 6 KO’s) of Detroit, MI will box against Jonel Tapia (8-5-1, 5 KO’s) of Aguas Buenas, PR in a Light Heavyweight bout.

Tickets are on sale for $100 (Front Row); $75 (Ringside) $50 (General Admission) by calling 301-899-2430 or by logging on to www.beltwayboxing.com

More fight information is available at www.kingsboxing.com

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

 PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS SERIES LANDS IN TORONTO

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PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

STEVENSON vs. KARPENCY

WBC LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE

PRESENTED BY GYM, GLB, LENNOX LEWIS AND MLSE

TORONTO (August 5, 2015) —    Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), in association with Global Legacy Boxing (GLB) and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE), is proud to officially announce the next world title defense of feared puncher, Adonis “Superman” Stevenson, September 11, at the Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto. The event is part of the prestigious Premier Boxing Champions series, airing live on Spike TV in the United States, on Indigo and Bell TV in Canada.

Stevenson (26-1-0, 21 KOs),ofMontreal, one of the most powerful pound-for- pound punchers in the world, will defend his World Boxing Council (WBC), The Ring magazine and lineal light heavyweight (175 pounds) world championship belts for the sixth time, against WBC #9 contender Tommy “Kryptonite” Karpency (25-4-1, 14 KOs), the skilled American southpaw fighting out of Adah, Pennsylvania. It was Stevenson’s wish to defend his titles in Toronto:

“I’m excited to announce my next fight on September 11 in Toronto against Tommy Karpency. I’m ready to put the hurt on. I work hard and stay focused”, said the champion.

 

The 29-year-old Karpency pulled off a major upset October 4, 2014 at the Foxwoods Resort of Mashantucket, Connecticut, defeating former light heavyweight lineal champion Chad Dawson by way of a split decision. Karpency, who has won his last four fights, is also the current Pennsylvania and NABA-USA light heavyweight champion. He is particularly excited to get this world championship opportunity.

“I beat the same guy Stevenson beat to become world champion. I beat him [Dawson] just over a year after Stevenson beat him. After that win, I said that the sky was the limit and that I wanted the best in the world. The win [over Dawson] proved that I belong amongst the elite at light heavyweight. Now it is my job to win this fight“, explained Karpency.

“GYM is trilled to bring this world championship fight and the ‘Premier Boxing Champions’ series to Toronto for the first time,” GYM president Yvon Michel said. “We have been contemplating this project for a long time. This has been possible because we found great partners with Les Woods and Lennox Lewis, from GLB, and Wayne Zronick, from MLSE. We have the conviction to bring a major boxing event that this prodigious sport city deserves. Even more, we also believe we have found the required partners to guarantee the success of the project and to do it again on a regular bases.”

“It is an immense privilege to be working alongside MLSE and GYM,” GLB president Les Woods added. “Global Legacy’s mandate of reviving world-class professional boxing in the wonderful city of Toronto has become a reality. “To continue the legacy my grandfather created and reignite a passion for ‘the sweet science’ across the city is a vision and accomplishment I hope will continue to leave a lasting imprint now as well as on all futuregenerations of boxing fans.”

Also part of this promotion is former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, Lennox Lewis. While not fighting anymore, he stills as the passion for his sport. Lewis defeated Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Vitali Klitschko among the more notables during his illustrious boxing career.

“It’s wonderful to be a part of GLB, working in conjunction with GYM and MLSE, to revive boxing in Toronto and across Canada to the highest level,” Lewis remarked. “As the former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, I am proud to be building a nationwide platform where boxers, such as world light heavyweight champion Adonis Stevenson, can showcase their talents at home and receive the support they deserve.”

In the co-feature, current Canadian heavyweight champion Dillon “Big Country” Carman (8-2, 7 KOs), of Mississauga, Ontario, will face former Lewis and Tyson opponent, Jamaican-born Donovan “Razor” Ruddock (40-5-1, 30 KOs). A total of eight bouts will be scheduled during the event, showcasing young talents from Ontario and Quebec.

Boxing in Toronto and Ontario

Toronto was a boxing hot spot as early as 1880.

Jake Kilrain, George Dixon, Joe Gans, Kid McCoy, Harry Greb, Sam Langford,Benny Leonard, Mickey Walker, Kid Chocolate, Max Baer, Primo Carnera,Joey Giambra, Archie Moore, Floyd Patterson, Bob Foster, Muhammad Ali, and Larry Holmes all waged epic battles in Toronto during their boxing careers.

Other standouts who also fought in Toronto include Jimmy Wilde, Jimmy Welsh,Young Stribling, Rocky Kansas, “Panama” Al Brown, Sandy Saddler, Battling Levinsky, Sammy Angott, Tommy Loughran, Maxie Rosenbloom, Jose Napoles, Ernie Terrell, Jimmy Ellis, Nino Benvenuti, and Aaron Pryor.

Canadian legend George Chuvalo fought for the heavyweight world title March 29, 1966 at the Maple Leaf Gardens against defending champion and boxing iconMuhammad Ali, in probably the most famous bout ever held in the city. The always tough Chuvalo lasted 15 rounds with the man known as “The Greatest”.

Toronto native Nick Furlano also boxed and lasted 15 rounds against ferocious World Boxing Association (WBA) world super lightweight champion and International Boxing Hall of Fame member, Aaron “The Hawk” Pryor, June 22, 1984, at the Varsity Stadium of the University of Toronto.

Since then, Sarnia’s son Steve Molitor was the International Boxing Federation world super bantamweight (122 pounds) champion, from 2006 to 2011. He fought in seven world title fights in Ontario, all at the Rama Casino.

More recently, November 15, 2014 at the Hershey Center in Mississauga, Brampton’s own Denton Daley challenged WBA interim world cruiserweight champion Youri Kalenga, a nativeof the Democratic Republic of the Congo, losing in the 12th and final round.

Tickets go on sale starting Friday, August 7 at 10:00 a.m., on www.ticketmaster.ca, at GYM (514) 383-0666, GLB (416) 678-6957 or Ricoh Coliseum (416) 263-3900. Ticket prices start at 40 $. Tables are also available by contacting GLB.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

DON KING PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS UNBEATEN HEAVYWEIGHT TREVOR BRYAN AGAINST DANGEROUS DERRIC ROSSY AUG. 28 ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION

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Tripleheader Features Undefeated Middleweight Juan Ubaldo Cabrera Against Once-Beaten Mike Gavronksi

& Samoa’s Natu Visinia Versus All-Action Heavyweight Joey Dawejko

 

Friday, Aug. 28, Live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT)

From Downtown Las Vegas Events Center

 

NEW YORK (Aug. 5, 2015) – Promising up-and-coming heavyweight Trevor Bryan (15-0, 11 KOs) 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), in the 10-round main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast). Promoted by Don King Productions, the bout will take place Friday, Aug. 28, at Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC), across from the D Las Vegas in iconic Downtown Las Vegas.

 

In the co-feature, two-time Dominican Republic Olympian Juan Ubaldo Cabrera (23-0, 16 KOs), will take on the versatile Mike Gavronski (18-1-1, 12 KOs), of Tacoma, Wash., in a 10-round middleweight match.  In the opening bout of the telecast, Samoa’s 6-foot-2 heavyweight Natu Visinia (11-1, 9 KOs) of Tacoma, Wash., will face 5-foot-10 Joey Dawejko(14-4-2, 7 KOs), of Philadelphia, in an eight-round matchup.

 

All six boxers will make their ShoBox debuts in what amounts to make-or-breakout fights for each. Tickets are priced at $39.50, $59.50, $89.50, $149.50 and $500.00 for VIP Tables and are available at www.ticketmaster.com.

 

“It gives me great pleasure to help young and old prospects, men and women, chasing their dreams, grasping for an opportunity to transform their dreams into living reality,” King said.  “Trevor Bryan is such a prospect seeking an opportunity to fulfill his dreams. Well, Don King and SHOWTIME are giving him that opportunity to capture the imagination of the people onShoBox on Aug. 28.  However, Derric Rossy, a great challenger and ‘Dreambreaker’ is blocking the door to greatness. And Trevor Bryan has to fight like hell to get through that door. The fight will be the power of dreams. I urge all fight fans to tune in on ShoBox and don’t blink.’’

 

“We are excited to partner with Don King Promotions and ShoBox in bringing outdoor boxing to downtown Las Vegas,” said Derek Stevens, CEO/Owner DLVEC and the D Las Vegas. “The fight card features promising talent, which should make for an unforgettable event.”

 

Looking to establish himself in the United States heavyweight division, the talented but unproven Bryan of Pompano Beach, Fla., by way Albany, N.Y., is taking a huge leap in class against Rossy, of Medford, N.Y.

 

So how good of a prospect is Bryan, who turns 26 on Aug. 23?  The former amateur standout

won five national championships in just 60 amateur bouts.  While a close loss in the finals of a 2011 qualifying tournament kept him out of the U.S. Olympic Trials, the heavyweight gained valuable experience at Northern Michigan University under the tutelage of former U.S. Olympic Coach Al Mitchell.

 

Since his debut at 22 in November 2011, the 6-feet-4 Bryan has stayed active and registered 10 of his 11 knockout victories in three rounds or less.   Bryan, who knocked out outmatched Stacy Frazier in the second round last June 20, is excited for the opportunity to prove himself against a veteran heavyweight.

 

“On paper, it looks like it’ll be exciting and I’m definitely looking at it as a breakout fight for me,’’ Bryan said. “I feel excitement, not pressure.  It’s time for people to start mentioning my name with the others.  I’ve had a great training camp, I continue to feel confident with trainer Stacey McKinley and I feel strong, mentally clear and confident.  I’m ready to roll.”

 

Bryan has gone eight rounds once but is intelligent enough to not overlook a dangerous veteran like Rossy.

 

“You can’t take an awkward, determined guy like Rossy lightly,” Bryan said.  “He’s scored a couple of upsets, fought some guys he thought he beat, has ring experience and he’s been there against all kinds.  Like me, I feel he’s kind of desperate in his own way and the guys who are the most desperate are the most dangerous.

 

“This guy can’t beat me but I expect a tough, tough fight.  I know Rossy’s not coming to lie down.  Me?  I’m just a young fighter trying to make his way and looking to showcase my talents.  It’s time to fight somebody tough.”

 

Rossy, 35, has never managed to get past journeyman/gatekeeper status and over that proverbial hump fight that catapults you to the next level.

Rossy has been in with former WBO heavyweight champion Ray Mercer, world-title contenders Eddie Chambers (twice) and Fres Oquendo and world-ranked contenders such as Vyacheslav Glazkov in an 11-year career in which he seldom got the benefit of the doubt in tight fights.  In his outing before last, Rossy dropped a highly controversial 10-round majority decision to 2008 Olympic bronze medalist and IBF No. 2-rated contender Glazkov (17-0-1) on Aug. 9, 2014.

 

“I’ve been dealt some unfortunate hands in boxing, results not coming my way, but I don’t sit and dwell on them,’’ Rossy said. “The bottom line is I can’t sit around and mope.  I’ve got to win and leave no doubt in anybody’s mind. I feel like I’ve done that in many fights, but for some reason they think I leave doubt.”

 

One exception came in his last fight when Rossy registered an upset in a unanimous 10-round decision over previously undefeated, untested Akhor Muralimov (16-0, 13 KOs going in).  Utilizing smart separation and his considerable height and reach, Rossy triumphed by the scores of 97-93 and 96-94 twice.

 

Rossy is looking for a similar performance against the undefeated Bryan.

 

“Bryan, I think he’s put together well,” Rossy said.  “He’s a good boxer.  It’s going be a good stylistic and action-packed fight.  We’ll both try to establish our jabs.  I think this is a formidable fight for both of us.

 

“Bryan has the pedigree to maybe be a heavyweight champion someday, but not now.  In my eyes I feel he’s making a mistake, but anybody that fights me know they are looking at a war.  I am a high-risk, low-reward kind of opponent.  I’ve fought them all; Bryan is a little green in that area so we’ll see.”

 

Before becoming a pro boxer, Rossy was an All American high school football star who would go on to play at Boston College where he was an outstanding 248-pound defensive end. Hehad some pro tryouts but was seen as a “tweener,” too big for linebacker, too small to play end.  So he turned to boxing and despite only 10 amateur fights won the 2004 New York Golden Gloves tournament, and turned pro in October of that year.  He went 15-0 at the outset of his pro career before losing to Chambers the first time.

 

Juan Ubaldo Cabrera, who will take on Mike Gavronski in the ShoBox co-feature, represented the Dominican Republic in the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games.  The 36-year-oldmay best be known for defeating future world champion Jean Pascal en route to taking the gold medal in the middleweight class in the 2003 Pan-American Games.  During an excellent amateur career, Cabrera also brought home a silver medal in the 2002 Central American and Caribbean Games as a light middleweight.

 

Two years after his last appearance in the Olympics, at the age of 26, he turned pro in October 2005 and won 13 of his initial 15 fights by knockout.  Cabrera is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Tim Hall on the Deontay Wilder-Eric Molinaundercard last June 13 in Birmingham, Ala.  Cabrera has been inactive recently – the win over Hall was his first fight in a year and only his sixth since July 2009.

 

Gavronski is a durable, well-conditioned 29-year-old from the Northwest who combines boxing skill with KO power in both hands and also fought in MMA.  He’s won four in a row – all in Tacoma – and is 3-0 this year.  In his last fight, he recorded a resounding ninth-round TKO over rival Tyrell Hendrix on May 30 in a rematch of their 2011 draw.

 

A Washington state favorite, the 6-foot-tall Gavronski turned pro at the age of 24 in 2010, and suffered his lone loss via 10-round decision to Tureano Johnson (14-1) in 2011 in a bout for the WBC Continental Americas middleweight title.

 

The opening bout of the telecast – Natu Visinia vs. Joey Dawejko – features a heavyweight showdown between a talented prospect and a former standout amateur.

 

Visinia, 30, is perhaps the most promising up-and-coming Samoan heavyweight since former longtime contender David Tua.   A true heavyweight with tremendous knockout power in both hands, a rock-hard head and granite chin, the 6-foot-4 30-year-old is coming off a fourth-round knockout over Joshua Clarke last May 13.  Seven of Visinia’s nine KO victories came in the first round.

 

Visinia was a former standout high school and college football player at Southern Illinois University.  He began his fighting career in MMA, where he became the No. 2 ranked amateur in the United States before making his pro debut.  He then switched to boxing in 2006.

 

After his boxing pro debut in 2009, Visinia gained invaluable experience sparring with the likes of Wladimir Klitschko, Evander Holyfield and Lamon Brewster.  He won his first 10 pro fights before losing by seventh-round TKO to former two-time IBF cruiserweight championSteve Cunningham on Oct. 18, 2014.  In his first genuine step up in class, Visinia dropped Cunningham in the fifth but Cunningham’s past class and conditioning proved too much to overcome.

 

Dawe­jko had a decorated am­a­teur ca­reer that included a World Junior Amateur championship in 2008, the national under-19 crown, and a victory over Bryant Jennings, who recently challenged heavyweight world champion Wladimir Klitschko last April.

 

The 25-year-old Dawejko was on a heavy roll, winning six consecutive fights, four in a row by first-round stoppage before his six-fight winning streak ended when he lost a 10-round decision to Amir Mansour (21-1) in a Pennsylvania State heavyweight title fight this past May.  This will be the third start of the year for the 5-foot-10, six-year-pro, an all-action heavyweight who owns a victory over Rossy in January 2014.  Two outings back, on March 3, Dawejko required all of 27 seconds to dispatch of Enobong Umohette.

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer isGordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

# # #

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

 Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round on Bounce TV: “Smashing Debut”

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ATLANTA (Aug. 5, 2015) – The series premiere of Premier Boxing Champions – The Next Round on Bounce TV on Aug. 2 was a knockout success.

 

The live telecast delivered 459,000 total viewers and averaged 333,000 Households between 9:00 p.m.-12:15 a.m., with a peak audience of 667,000 total viewers and 444,000 Households. This live telecast also delivered 255,000 Adults 25-54 and 195,000 A18-49.

 

Bounce TV aired an immediate encore of PBC – The Next Round after the live event and the two telecasts combined reached nearly two million unique viewers.

 

The network also streamed the PBC – The Next Round live on BounceTV.com which saw a usage increase of more than 300% on Sunday night. (Click here to watch the telecast.)

 

Bounce TV’s debut of PBC – The Next Round was also met with glowing media reviews, including: “Smashing debut” (Bleacher Report) and “The debut of PBC: The Next Round on Bounce TV was a success” (USA Today).

 

The inauguralPBC – The Next Round consisted of three exciting fights. The main event saw Juan Carlos “Baby Pacquiao” Payano (17-0, 8 KOs) defeat Rau’shee Warren (13-1, 4 KOs) in a close, 12-round split decision to retain hisBantamweight Title.

 

In the first bout of a four-man super welterweight tournament, John Jackson(20-2, 15 KOs) won a 10-round unanimous decision over Dennis Laurente (49-6, 30 KOs).  The second tournament bout featured a hard-hitting fight in which Jorge Cota (25-1, 22 KOs) defeated Yudel Jhonson.  The winners of this tournament, Cota and Jackson, will fight on PBC – The Next Round on Bounce TV in November.

 

Fred Hickman (CNN Sports, ESPN) hosted PBC – The Next Round, Fran Charles(NFL Network, MLB Network) called the blow-by-blow action and former Super Welterweight World Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout provided insight and analysis.

 

PBC – The Next Roundreturns Fri. Sept. 18 at 9:00 p.m. (ET) with the schedule of fights to be announced shortly.

 

Bounce TV is carried on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage.  Bounce TV is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more.  Bounce TV has grown to be available in more than 85 million homes across 90 markets, 90% of African American television homes — including all of the top AA television markets. Among the founders of Bounce TV are iconic American figures Ambassador Andrew Young and Martin Luther King III. For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.