Qeb Archives: boxing

FORMER WORLD CHAMPIONS OMAR FIGUEROA AND RICKY BURNS BATTLE IN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MAIN EVENT AS PBC ON CBS RETURNS SATURDAY, MAY 9

BANTAMWEIGHT TITLEHOLDERS TOMOKI KAMEDA

AND JAMIE MCDONNELL CLASH IN CO-MAIN EVENT

Live on CBS, Tej zaum 9 tom 4 p.m. LI/1 p.m. PT

HIDALGO, Texas (Tim 1, 2015) – Exciting and undefeated former lightweight world champion OmarPanterita” Figueroa (24-0-1, 18 KOs) will take on former two-division world champion Ricky Burns (37-4-1, 11 KOs) in the main event when Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) returns to CBS on Hnub vas xaum, Tej zaum 9 (4 p.m. LI, 1 p.m. PT), at the State Farm Arena in Hidalgo, Texas.

 

In the co-main event, a pair of bantamweight world champions square off when Tomoki Kameda (31-0, 19 KOs) battles Jamie McDonnell (25-2-1, 12 KOs).

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are priced at $150, $100, $75, $50, thiab $25, thiab tsis muaj kev tsub thiab se. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or at the State Farm Arena Box Office. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

 

I am so excited to be bringing this huge event to my hometown,” said Figueroa. “It is my dream to fight on such a big stage and bring this kind of attention to Hidalgo. My fans have supported me from day one, and I plan on showing them how grateful I am with a stellar performance on Tej zaum 9.”

 

I can’t wait for this fight. Ever since it was confirmed I’ve been absolutely buzzing in the gym,” said Burns. “I’ve had some great nights in Scotland winning and defending my world titles at two different weights but I have always wanted to box in America. Our styles gel perfectly for one hell of a fight, neither of us take a step backbring on Tej zaum 9!”

 

This will be a home game for Figueroa, who will be making his initial start at 140 pounds after a hard-fought ninth-round knockout over Daniel Estrada in a slugfest last August. The 25-year-old Figueroa vacated his 135-pound belt after that defense. He became a champion in 2013 when he earned a unanimous 12-round decision over Nihito Arakawa in a brutal Fight of the Year battle. Figueroa, despite fighting with a cut on his nose from an accidental head-butt, registered two knockdowns in the memorable slugfest. Since then Figueroa defended his title twice, first with a split-decision victory over Jerry Belmontes and later with a ninth-round knockout against Daniel Estrada. Now the Weslaco, Texas native will move up in weight when he battles Burns on Tej zaum 9.

 

An experienced fighter and former two-division world champion out of Scotland, Burns looks to add a huge victory to his resume when he takes on Figueroa. A champion in the junior lightweight and lightweight divisions, the 31-year-old owns victories over a host of accomplished fighters including Roman Martinez, Michael Katsidis and Kevin Mitchell. After suffering consecutive losses to Terrence Crawford and Dejan Zlaticanin, Burns bounced back to defeat Alexandre Lepelley in October 2014 and he will look to keep that momentum going on Tej zaum 9.

 

An undefeated world champion out of Tokyo, Kameda announced his arrival stateside with 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. The 23-year-old followed up his U.S. debut when he defeated Alejandro Hernandez in Chicago via split decision. His next challenge comes when he faces fellow bantamweight world champion McDonnell.

 

The United Kingdom’s McDonnell has been on a tear since 2008 nrog 17 consecutive wins. Most recently, he became a bantamweight world champion with a victory over Tabtimdaeng Na Rachawat and later successfully defended against Javier Nicolas Chacon.

 

PBC on CBS, headlined by Figueroa vs. Burns, is promoted by Warriors Boxing and Panterita Promotions in association with Matchroom Sport. The event takes place at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo, Texas with the CBS telecast beginning at 4 p.m. LI/1 p.m. PT.

 

We’re very excited to bring this exciting fight to the great fight city of Hidalgo,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “I have no doubt that these two fighters are going to put on an incredible show for the fans at State Farm Arena.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @SHOSports, @OmarFigueroaJr, @RicksterKO, @TomokiKameda, @JamieMcDonnell1, @WarriorsBoxPromo and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo thiabwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog athttp://theboxingblog.sho.com.

WBC & Ntiv nplhaib 8 to honor the late Joe Dwyer & Tony Mazzarella at the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame 2015 Induction Dinner

Hnub xya, Tim 26 at Russo’s On The Bay, Howard Beach, NY

 

NEW YORK (Apr. 1, 2015) – The World Boxing Council (WBC) and Ring 8 will honor the late Joe Dwyer and Tony Mazzarella at the fourth annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) induction dinner, sponsored by Ring 8, Hnub xya afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. LI), Tim 26 nyob Russo lub ntawm lub Bay hauv Howard Beach, New York.

 

WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman will make a special presentation to Dwyer’s family. Ntiv nplhaib 8 will make presentations to the Dwyer and Mazzarella families. Dwyer and Mazzarella, both longtime Ring 8 neeg, passed away earlier this year. Dwyer was president of the North American Boxing Federation (NABF). Mazzarella, who served many years as Ring 8’s treasurer, was a major influence in the founding of the NYSBHOF.

NYSBHOF Class of 2015

 

Boxers

 

WBC junior welterweight champion & Vietnam Veteran Saoul Mamby Bronx/Brooklyn

WBA junior middleweight title challenger Joey Giambra Buffalo

1961 National Golden Gloves champion Johnny Persol Brooklyn

Two-time world welterweight title challenger Harold Weston New York City

WBO middleweight champion Lonnie Bradley Harlem

(Deceased)

World light heavyweight champion Paul Berlenbach Astoria

Uncrownedworld welterweight champion Billy Graham Manhattan’s Eastside

2-Time World flyweight champion Frankie Genaro New York City

World middleweight & welterweight champion Tommy Ryan Redwood/Syracuse

World light heavyweight champion Jimmy Slattery Buffalo

 

Non-Participants

 

NYSBHOF & Ntiv nplhaib 8 president Bob Duffy Manhattan/Massapequa Park

Journalist Mike Katz Bronx

Trainer Tommy Gallagher Howard Beach

Promoter/cutman Bob Miller Albany

Gleason’s Gym owner Bruce Silverglade Brooklyn

(Deceased)

Trainer Charley Goldman Brooklyn

MSG matchmaker Harry Markson Kingston

Promoter Cedric Kushner Manhattan

MSG matchmaker Jimmy Johnson New York City

Journalist Damon Runyon Manhattan

Manager/matchmaker Al Weill New York City

 

Renown ring announcer David Diamante will once again serve as the event’s Master of Ceremonies.

 

Tus 2015 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Jack Hirsch, Steve Farhood, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Don Majeski, Henry Hascup, Ron McNair and Neil Terens.

 

Each inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his induction into the NYSBHOF. All NYSBHOF plaques are on display at the New York State Athletic Commission.

 

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years, in order to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers.

CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “SugarRay Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

 

CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, JamesBuddyMcGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

CLASS OF 2014: Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

 

Tickets are priced at $125.00 per adult and $50.00 for children (under 16), and includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 PM/LI, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day.

 

Tickets are available to purchase by calling NYSBHOF/Ring 8 president Bob Duffy at516.313.2304. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $50.00 mus $250.00, by contacting and Duffy.

 

Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

HAIS TXOG LUB NPLHAIB 8: Ua rau 1954 yog tus ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ntiv nplhaib 8 los ua tus eighth subsidiary txog dab tsi yog ces hu ua lub teb chaws qub tub rog Boxers Association – li no, NTIV NPLHAIB 8 – thiab hnub no lub koom haum motto tseem tshua: Boxers pab Boxers.

 

NTIV NPLHAIB 8 koom txoos siab yuav txhawb cov neeg tsis muaj hmoo hauv zos boxing uas tej zaum yuav tau kev pab ntawd them nqi tsev xauj, nqi kho mob, los xijpeem tiag yuav tsum.

 

Mus rau kab kom www.Ring8ny.com Yog xav paub ntxiv txog lub NPLHAIB 8, cov pab pawg neeg coob thiaj nyob rau tebchaws Meskas muaj ntau tshaj 350 neeg. Xyoo dues koom xwb $30.00 thiab ib tug yog cai mus ib hmo tom lub NPLHAIB buffet 8 cov rooj sib tham txhua hli, lub Xya hli ntuj excluding thiab lub yim hli ntuj. Txhua yam boxers, amateur thiab kev, muaj txoj cai tau ib ntiv nplhaib tawm complimentary 8 xyoo ua tswv cuab. Qhua ntawm lub nplhaib 8 cov neeg tau txais tos ntawm ib nqi xwb $7.00 ib tug neeg twg.

Stewart Allan’s Rivals Promotions Present An Evening Of Professional Boxing 25th April 2015 @ Rivals Gym, Newmains

Robb-Ellis & Allan-Quaye Co-Headline Rivals Promotions Apr 25th Newmains Event.

 

Scott Allan and Sandy Robb are set to co-headline the latest offering from famed promoter Stewart Allan, which takes place at the Rivals Gym in Newmains, Scotland on Saturday 25th Tim.

 

The stellar line-up features a number of exciting young prospects, however the match-up that has been attracting the most attention is the co-headlining Cruiserweight battle between Sandy Robb (9(5)-2) and Blackpool’s Mathew ‘The Rock’ Ellis (20(9)-10-2).

 

Robb, who has been competing in Canada since 2012, will be competing in his first bout on Scottish soil since his excellent fourth round stoppage victory over Poland’s Marcin Radola in May ’06.

 

Robb’s opponent, former WBC International title challenger Mathew Ellis, has battled it out with some of the very best in the domestic game, such notables as Tyson Fury, Enzo Maccarinelli, Tony Bellew, Matty Askin etc, so no surprise why this is particular bout has captured everyone’s attention.

 

The co-headliner with Robb-Ellis sees local Bantamweight prospect Scott Allan (4-1), who is bursting with confidence following his superb victory over previously unbeaten Omran Akbari back in December, face his toughest test to date, when he goes toe-to-toe with former Commonwealth title challenger Ghana’s Isaac Quaye (27(18)-9-1).

 

The support card for the outstanding co-headline bouts, features a mix of the experienced and brand new faces to the pro game.

 

Glasgow’s Ronnie Nailen makes his most welcome return to the fray, in a four round Welterweight contest, against Nottingham’s hugely experienced Matt Scriven.

 

Nailen, whose record stands at three wins and a single loss, will be looking to secure a good win on April 25th, to kick start part two of his career.

 

Glasgow based Iranian Mohammad Babazadeh (2(1)-0) will be looking to extend his winning start to his career, following an excellent points victory over Mitch Mitchell on his debut in November and more recently the excellent third round stoppage win over Bulgaria’s Borislav Zankov in March.

 

On April 25th Babazadeh will face Belfast bruiser Phil Townley, whose most recent outing see him unsuccessfully challenge Ireland’s Tommy Tolan for the Irish International title.

 

Scott Allan’s younger sibling, Sam, is set to make his professional boxing debut and in doing so gets handed a tough test in Dundalk, Ireland’s former Irish tile Challenger Michael Kelly (8(2)-6-1).

 

Also making his pro debut will be Ryan Lyall, who also has a tough test lined-up, as he goes against Middlesbrough’s Chris Wood, who scored a first round stoppage win over Latvia’s Edgars Milevics on his recent pro debut.

 

Sandy Robb versus Mathew Ellis and Scott Allan versus Isaac Quaye co-headline the Stewart Allan (Rivals Promotions) event at the Rivals Gym in Newmains, Scotland on Saturday 25th Tim 2015.

Sanctioning for this event will be provided courtesy of the Malta Boxing Commission (MBC) www.maltaboxingcommission.com

Tickets priced £30 and £40 are available direct from any of the boxers taking part, or call Stewart on 07711 725257.

Boxcino 2015 ❏ Jr ❏. Middleweight thiab Heavyweight semifinals yuav tsum nyob rau hnub Friday, Tim 10 ntawm lub Resort Sands twv txiaj yuam pov rau hauv Bethlehem, PAJ

Philadelphia (Lub peb hlis ntuj 31, 2015)–It is less than two weeks away from the semifinals of the Boxcino 2015 heavyweight and jr. middleweight tournaments that will take place on Friday night, Tim 10 and will be held at the Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem, PAJ.

 

The show will be televised live on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights with the Boxcino semifinal fights beginning at 9 PM ET.

 

All semifinal bouts are scheduled for eight rounds.

 

In the heavyweight division, Andrey Fedosov (26-3, 21 KO's) yuav siv tau Lenroy Thomas (19-3, 8 KO's). Fedosov is coming off a first round pounding of Nate Heaven while Thomas won a 7-round drawbreaker over former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada.

 

In the second semifinal, Razvan Cojanu (13-1, 7 KO's) yuav siv tau Donovan Dennis (11-1, 9 KO's).

 

Cojanu is coming off a 7-round drawbreaker win over Ed Fountain while Dennis stopped Steve Vukosa in 4-rounds.

 

In the jr. middleweight division, Stanyslav Skorokhod (9-0, 7 KO's) battles John Thompson (15-1, 5 KO's).

 

Skorokhod was very impressive in taking out Michael Moore in four rounds. Thompson took a six round unanimous decision over Ricardo Pinnel.

 

Brandon Adams (16-1, 11KO's) battles Vito Gasparyan (15-3-5, 8 KO's).

 

Adams stopped Alex Perez in five rounds while Gasparyan won a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Simeon Hardy.

 

A full undercard will be announced shortly.

 

Qhov kev tshwm sim no pib thaum 7PM. Tus nqi pib yog $100, $75, $50. Daim pib yuav raug muas ntawm www.ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000 and at the box office at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

For credentials, contact: Marc Abrams at marc@banner-promotions.com

Ua raws li cov Banner Promotions ntawm kev tawm rau tag nrho cov tseeb Banner thiab #Boxcino2015 tshiab:

@BannerBoxing #TeamBanner ; @Boxcino2015 #Boxcino

Facebook.com/BannerPromotions; instagram.com/BannerBoxing

ADONIS STEVENSON SERVES FOOD AT SOUP KITCHEN IN QUEBEC CITY

Light Heavyweight Champ Defends Against Sakio Bika

In First Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) Event On CBS

This Saturday, Tim 4, tom 3 p.m. LI/Noon PT

(PHOTOS BY: Amanda Kwok / PBC on CBS)

QUEBEC CITY, QUEBEC (Lub peb hlis ntuj 31, 2015) – This Saturday afternoon, Tim 4, hard-hitting light heavyweight world champion AdonisSupermanStevenson (25-1, 21 KOs) plans to dish out plenty of punishment when he defends against former super middleweight world champion SakioThe ScorpionBika (32-6-3, 21 KOs) in the main event of the debut presentation of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on CBS Television Network (3 p.m. LI/Noon PT) from the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City.

 

Today, however, in what has become a tradition before his fights at Pepsi Coliseum, Stevenson served food at La Maison de Lauberivière, a local shelter and soup kitchen for homeless men and women. Besides serving food, Stevenson and his team also gave away tickets, autographed posters and posed for photos with people in the shelter and some of his local fans.

 

Nyob rau hauv Hnub Saturday second main on CBS, promising undefeated light heavyweight Artur Beterbiev (7-0, 7 KOs) gets tested when he faces former light heavyweight world champion Gabriel Campillo (25-6-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round bout.

 

# # #

PBC on CBS, headlined by the light heavyweight world championship fight between Stevenson and Bika, is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) and presented by Videotron and in association with Mise-O-Jeu. Tickets are on sale now at the Pepsi Coliseum box office in Quebec, by calling (418) 691-7211 los sis (800) 900-7469, hauv online (online) www.billetech.com, at GYM (514) 383-0666 and Champion Boxing Club (514) 376-0980. Ticket prices range from $25 mus $250 on the floor.

CBS SPORTSCASTERS KEVIN HARLAN AND BRENT STOVER WITH ANALYSTS PAUL MALIGNAGGI AND VIRGIL HUNTER TO CALL PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON CBS

Series Premieres This Saturday, Tim 4, on CBS at 3 p.m. LI/Noon PT
NEW YORK (Lub peb hlis ntuj 31, 2015) – The broadcast team for the Tim 4 debut of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on CBS features a blend of highly respected sportscasters and shrewd boxing minds. Hosted by CBS Sports Network’s Brent Stover, the fights will be called by versatile and respected play-by-play veteran Kevin Harlan with ringside analysts Paul Malignaggi and broadcast newcomer Virgil Hunter.

 

The PBC on CBS announce team will usher in the first of up to eight live events this year beginning qhov no Hnub vas xaum, Tim 4, tom 3 p.m. LI/Noon PT. Light heavyweight world champion Adonis Stevenson (25-1, 21 KOs), of Montreal, will defend his title against former super middleweight world champion Sakio Bika (32-6-3, 21 KOs), of Sydney, Australia. Opening the two-fight afternoon broadcast will be undefeated Russian-born Canadian light heavyweight Artur Beterbiev (7-0, 7 KOs), of Montreal, facing former world champion Gabriel Campillo (25-6-1, 12 KOs), of Madrid, Spain, from Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City.

 

A veteran broadcaster, Harlan has called NFL games for 30 consecutive years. He joined CBS Sports’ NFL broadcast team as a play-by-play announcer in 1998. Harlan called CBS Sports’ HDTV coverage of the 2001 AFC Championship and Super Bowl XXXV. He has called CBS Sportscoverage of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship since 1999, including this year’s CBS/Turner coverage of the West Regional from Los Angeles. A well-versed radio broadcaster, this past season Harlan once again called play-by-play for NFL games with Boomer Esiason on Westwood One Radio Sports. Harlan and Esiason were the lead announce team on Westwood One for “Monday Night Football,” the playoffs, a Conference Championship game and the Super Bowl. This season marked Harlan’s fifth consecutive Super Bowl. Harlan called the NCAA Final Four and Championship games for CBS Radio Network and Westwood One for five consecutive years (2003-07), as well as the regionals (2009, 2010, 2011). Harlan’s boxing experience includes the 1995 Mike Tyson vs. Buster Mathis Jr. bout on FOX and various championship boxing events he has called for radio. Harlan is in his 28th season broadcasting the NBA and has called play-by-play action for Turner Sportscoverage of the NBA Playoffs since 1996 and regular-season games for TNT and TBS since 1997.

 

The 34-year-old Malignaggi is a two-time, two-division world champion. He is known for his passionate and honest assessment of live fights and fighters as an analyst for SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. An invaluable asset at ringside, Malignaggi applies a lifetime of personal boxing expertise to dynamic, ever-changing situations in the ring and articulates with aplomb. He’s been a regular ringside analyst since 2012.

 

The knowledgeable and sage Hunter is one of the most prominent and respected trainers in boxing. He has coached unbeaten super middleweight kingpin Andre Ward, British superstar and former undisputed 140-pound world champion Amir Khan and former welterweight world champion Andre Berto and was named the 2011 Trainer of the Year by the Boxing Writers Association of America. Hunter is making his first foray into announcing on Tim 4 and offers a fresh and unique perspective to the PBC on CBS.

 

Stover has served as studio host for CBS Sports Network since 2011. He joined the network in 2010 and has held a number of roles, including as play-by-play announcer for football, basketball and for Olympic sports. Prior to joining CBS Sports Network, Stover served as host, anchor, reporter and play-by-play voice for the Big Ten Network and Fox Sports Net Midwest/Southwest.

 

The second installment of PBC on CBS is Hnub vas xaum, Tej zaum 9, and will pit undefeated Omar Figueroa, who vacated his Lightweight World Championship to move up in weight to 140 pounds, against former champion Ricky Burns.

 

Additional dates for Premier Boxing Champions on CBS are to be announced include live broadcasts in June, July and September, with up to three remaining events on the 2015 calendar. The live boxing broadcasts on CBS, other than the aforementioned premiere, will be broadcast live at 4 p.m. LI/1 p.m. PT.

 

The Premier Boxing Champions series was created for television by Haymon Boxing. It is the first consistent series presentation of live boxing on CBS in 15 xyoo. The network aired a one-off live event featuring current WBC Super Bantamweight Champion Leo Santa Cruz in 2012. Prior to that, the last live boxing on the network was in 1997 when then-middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins knocked out Glen Johnson.

 

Live boxing was a staple on the network in the 1980s, consistently featuring future Hall of Famers Thomas “The Hitman” Hearns, Roberto Duran, Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini and others. Boxing’s history on CBS dates back to 1948 when the Pabst Blue Ribbon Bouts premiered featuring legendary blow-by-blow commentator Russ Hodges.

MEDZHIDB-52BEKTEMIROV RETURNS APRIL 18TH ON CRAWFORD-DULORME CARD

 

HOUSTON, TEXAS (Lub peb hlis ntuj 31, 2015)Bombs will be flying once again when Gary Shaw Productions thiab Savarese Promotions undefeated Light-Heavyweight slugger, MedzhidB-52Bektemirov (15-0, 12 KOs), makes his way back to the ring against Michael Gbenga (20-18, 20 KOs). Bektemirov vs. Gbenga, an 8-round bout, will take place Hnub vas xaum, Tim 18, at College Park Center located on the campus of the University of Texas Arlington on the undercard of Crawford-Dulorme.

 

Ranked #10 by the WBA, Bektemirov will seek another victory against Gbenga, as he looks to climb up the Light-Heavyweight rankings while keeping his undefeated record intact. His mission, like always, is to get his opponent out of there early.

 

I’m looking to seek and destroy everyone in my path,” said Medzhid Bektemirov. “My trainer Ronnie Shields has me working on a variety of different combinations that I feel is making me a better fighter. I’m in the gym everyday working extremely hard on everything. Now that I’m ranked in the WBA, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. My co-promoters Gary Shaw and Lou Savarese have assured me a big fight if I continue to win. I know Gbenga has a lot of power, but I feel my punches will be more explosive and I’ll be gunning for the knockout from the opening bell. I’m ready to drop bombs!”

 

Lou and I are doing our best to keep B-52 busy,” Hais Gary Shaw. “This will be his second fight in a little over a month and we want him on the fast track to a world title. Our goal is to move him up wisely against opponents that will prepare him for the next level. He keeps knocking everyone out so we have to keep him fighting as much as possible.

 

I’m very happy that Gary Shaw was able to get B-52 on this card,” Hais Lou Savarese. “Bektemirov is thrilled to be fighting so soon after a spectacular performance in his last fight which took place last month. I like what Ronnie Shields is doing with him. He’s improving with each fight and that’s what Gary and I are looking for. We want B-52 ready for the next level.

BOB COSTAS, AL MICHAELS & MARV ALBERT TO WORK TOGETHER FOR FIRST TIME EVER ON APRIL 11 “PBC ON NBCPRIMETIME SHOW LIVE FROM BROOKLYN

Legendary Announce Trio Has Combined to Work

25 Super Bowls, 25 NBA Finals,

23 Olympics & 19 World Series

Costas to Present Feature on History of Boxing in New York

PBC on NBC Returns Hnub vas xaum, Tim 11, Live at

8:30 PM ET on NBC, Featuring

Danny “Ntxhee” Garcia (29-0) vs. Lamont Peterson (33-2-1) &

IrishAndy Lee (34-2) vs. PeterKid ChocolateQuillin (31-0)

STAMFORD, Conn. – Lub peb hlis ntuj 31, 2015 – One of America’s iconic big-event broadcast voices, Bob Costas, will serve as a special contributor for NBC’s Hnub vas xaum, Tim 11 primetime telecast of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC, it was announced today.

 

Costas, host Al Michaels, and blow-by-blow announcer Marv Albert will work together on a broadcast for the first time ever on the PBC on NBC show Hnub vas xaum, Tim 11 live at 8:30 p.m. LI ntawm qhov chaw Barclays hauv Brooklyn. Costas will present a feature on the long and storied history of boxing in New York.

 

Returning to their native New York for the telecast (Albert and Michaels are from Brooklyn, Costas from Commack, Long Island), the trio is synonymous with the biggest events in sportscombining to work 25 Super Bowls, 25 NBA Finals, 23 Olympics, 19 World Series, and numerous championship boxing events on television and radio.

 

We are thrilled to have three of sportsall-time broadcasting heavyweightsin prominence, not weightworking together on TV for the first time,” Hais Sam Flood, Executive Producer, NBC Sports and NBCSN. “Appropriately, these three are teammates on a primetime NBC boxing telecast.

 

While I have done many broadcasts with Al and with Marv, this is a one-time opportunity to work on the same broadcast with two of the all-time greats, plus it’s a chance for me and Al to renew our ongoing debate with Marv as to which was the greater cinematic achievementBASEketball los sis The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh,” said Costas, who at the 2014 Sochi Winter Games became U.S. television’s first 10-time Olympic primetime host (Jim McKay hosted eight times for ABC).

 

I never could have imagined this,” said Michaels, who in 2015 rau Hnub xya Night Football begins his record 30th consecutive season as the play-by-play voice of the NFL’s premier primetime broadcast package. “And to have it all happen close to where we all grew up makes it that much more special. Very, very cool.

 

It is an honor to be a part of this group,” said Albert, who has been the most recognizable national voice of the NBA since 1990 in addition to his 37 years as the radio and TV voice of the New York Knicks. “I’ve always had great admiration for the work that Al and Bob have done through the years, and I’m proud to call them friends.

 

Michaels, Albert, and Costas will be joined on the telecast by analyst and six-time world championSugarRay Leonard, corner analyst B.J. Flores, and reporter Kenny Rice.

 

Tus Hnub vas xaum, Tim 11 PBC on NBC primetime show features four boxers with a combined 127-4-1 record and 80 KOs – undefeated superstar Danny “Ntxhee” Garcia (29-0, 17 KOs) vs. Lamont Peterson (33-2-1, 17 KOs), and middleweight champion IrishAndy Lee (34-2, 24 KOs) vs. PeterKid ChocolateQuillin (31-0, 22 KOs).

 

Following is an additional look at the legendary sports broadcasting trio working its first event together.

 

TALE OF THE TAPE

 

As play-by-play announcer or host, on television or radio, Costas, Michaels and Albert have each worked the Super Bowl, Olympics, NBA Finals and World Series on multiple occasions. Following is a breakdown

 

Announcer Events worked
Bob Costas 11 Olympics, 11 NBA Finals, 7 Super Bowls, 7 World Series
Al Michaels 10 Super Bowls, 8 Olympics, 8 World Series, 2 NBA Finals
Marv Albert 12 NBA Finals, 8 Super Bowls, 4 Olympics, 4 World Series

 

MEMORABLE CALL

 

AL MICHAELSDo you believe in Miracles? Yes!” – 1980 Winter Olympics, U.S. Hockey team defeats Soviet Union in semifinal

 

MARV ALBERTYes, and it counts!” Numerous NBA telecasts

 

BOB COSTASThe New York YankeesWorld Champions….Team of the Decademost successful franchise of the century.Final out as Yankees sweep Braves in 1999 World Series

 

GREAT TRIOS

 

While we will resist the temptation to compare the Costas-Michaels-Albert broadcasting trio to the equally esteemed Three Tenors (José Carreras, Plácido Domingo, and Luciano Pavarotti), following is a sampling of great sports trios that at least one of the three has covered:

 

LeBron James-Dwayne Wade-Chris BoshLed by the All-Star trio, the Miami Heat advanced to four consecutive NBA Finals, winning two (2012 thiab 2013).

 

Greg Maddux-John Smoltz-Tom GlavineFrom 1993-2002, the pitching trio led the Atlanta Braves to the playoffs every season, won three National League pennants and captured the 1995 World Series title.

 

Troy Aikman-Emmitt Smith-Michael IrvinNicknamedThe Triplets,” the Hall of Fame quarterback-running back-wide receiver combination led the Dallas Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories in four seasons (1992-95).

 

Magic Johnson-Kareem Abdul-Jabbar-James WorthyThe Hall of Fame Los Angeles Lakers trio advanced to six of seven NBA Finals from 1983-89, winning three titles with each earning NBA Finals MVP honors once.

 

Wayne Gretzky-Mark Messier-Jari KurriThe Hall of Fame Edmonton Oilers front line trio won four Stanley Cups in five years between 1984-88.

 

SugarRay Leonard-ThomasHitmanHearns-MarvelousMarvin HaglerHall of Fame welterweight/middleweight trio captured 15 boxing titles in late 1970s and 1980s.

 

Larry Bird-Kevin McHale-Robert ParishThe Hall of Fame front court led the Boston Celtics to three NBA titles and two additional trips to the NBA Finals in the 1980s.

 

Pete Rose-Joe Morgan-Johnny BenchStalwarts of theThe Big Red Machine,” led Cincinnati Reds to three consecutive National League pennants, winning the World Series in 1975 thiab 1976.

 

Willis Reed-Walt Frazier-Dave DeBusschereTrio led the New York Knicks to the franchise’s only two NBA titles in a four-year span (1970 thiab 1973).

 

The debut PBC on NBC telecast on Saturday, Lub peb hlis ntuj 7 averaged 3.4 million viewers, ranking as the most-watched professional boxing broadcast in 17 xyoo (“Oscar De La Hoya’s Fight Nighton FOX, 5.9 million, Mon., Lub peb hlis ntuj 23, 1998). Tus PBC on NBC debut also led NBC to a Hnub vas xaum primetime victory among Adults 18-49, with a 1.08 rating in the demographic.

 

NBC and NBCSN will present 20 livePBC on NBCboxing events in 2015. Within the 20 live shows, NBC Sports Group will present more than 50 hours of PBC coverage, including NBCSN pre- and post-fight programming for NBC telecasts. The Premier Boxing Champions series is created for television by Haymon Boxing. Tus PBC on NBC will feature many of today’s brightest stars, in their most compelling matches.

 

All PBC on NBC shows will be streamed live on NBC Sports Live Extra viaTV Everywhere,” giving consumers additional value for their subscription service, and making high quality content available to MVPD customers both in and out of the home and on multiple platforms. NBC Sports Live Extra is available for desktops at NBCSports.com/liveextra. Tus NBC Sports Live Extra app is available on the iTunes App Store, Google Play and Windows Store.

 

NBC SPORTS GROUP

Marston: I’m Aiming For A Big Win On May 2nd – Tell O’Connell I’m Coming For Her Title Next

British #1 and reigning MBC International Super Bantamweight Champion Marianne Marston is set to return to the York Hall in London’s East End, the scene of her sensational Championship securing victory over Marianne Gulyas late last year, in a few weeks time, where she will face a yet to be named opponent on the Mark Lyons & Billy Elliott promoted LORDS OF THE RING event on Saturday 2nd Tej zaum 2015.

 

Back in October Marston utterly dominated proceedings against the then Hungarian #1, European #3 and World #31 ranked Gulyas to secure the vacant MBC International Super Bantamweight title.

 

From start to finish it was the slick British southpaw that took the fight to her much vastly more experienced opponent, aggressively going forward, utilizing her sharp jabs and stinging lefts to great effect.

 

Throughout Marston appeared to be able to pick off her opponent at will, in doing so left Gulyas no option but to defend on the retreat.

 

During the bout, which was fought at a frenetic pace, Gulyas visited the canvas no less than seven times, however only two of these were counted as knockdowns by referee Alf Sprung, who waved the others off as slips or pushes.

 

After ten scintillating rounds of boxing, Judges Ben Doughty (UK) and Matt Hamilton (South Africa) scored the bout 100-89 whilst judge Lee Murtagh (UK) scorecard read 99-88 all in favour of Marston.

 

The superb shut out victory rocketed Marston up the rankings, as well as earned her a World title shot, against reigning WIBA Champion, Australia’s Shannon O’Connell, which will take place later this summer.

 

However it is the upcoming bout that Marston is currently focusing on, as she made clear when she spoke earlier.

 

“I’m really looking forward to fighting again, especially back at York Hall.

 

It’s close to six months since I won the title, I have to admit I hoped to be out much earlier this year, but for one reason or another that just didn’t happen.

 

If I had I would have either defended the MBC title or fought for the WBU European title again, but with the World title fight coming up this summer it was decided that rather than having all the pressure that comes with a title fight, we would find an opponent with a similar style to Shannon (current WIBA World Champion Shannon O’Connell) to fight on May 2nd so we could use this as a seriously testing dry run as such.

 

I know I won every single round against Marianna (Gulyas) but her style is very different to Shannon’s, luckily though my main sparring partner is Ian Napa, Ian is so experienced and can box in any style, which is great as we know can prepare properly for both Shannon and my May 2nd opponent.

 

Ian’s brilliant, having someone that’s been there, done that and has the t-shirt to prove it, I honestly believe it’s his input to my preparations that makes all the difference, I mean he’s won both the British and European titles twice as well as fought for numerous titles, so really knows what is needed.

 

It also helps that I have a great experienced team around me, my coach Brian O’Shaughnessy really has bought me on, now instead of being more or less one dimensional in my approach I’m now fully rounded and can box in any style, even on the back foot, which is something I always found hard to do.

 

Mind you when you’re sparring people like Ian (Napa), Sunny (Edwards) and Ian Bailey all the time, you need to be able to adapt, so some of the praise has to go to them also.

 

I’ve really enjoyed being the MBC International Champion, winning the title has affected me in such a positive way, can’t explain it, but it’s like I’m a different fighter now, maybe that’s just the confidence of knowing I can go ten rounds with a World ranked fighter and not just hold my own, but beat them.

 

Now I’ve got to use this to my advantage, first I have to beat whoever it is I’ll be fighting on May 2nd and then of course Shannon when I challenge for her title.

 

I know I said this before, but when my career comes to an end, I want to be remembered as a boxer that had good skills, a proper Champion, not someone that just coasted through their career.

 

I want real fights, meaningful fights, believe me I’m not looking at May 2nd being a warm up or anything like that, I want to make a huge statement on May 2nd, I want Shannon to worry about the Marianne that will face her this summer, I want her to know I’m coming to take her title from her.”

 

Marianne Marston, against a yet to be announced opponent, features on the Mark Lyons & Billy James-Elliott Wise Guys Promotions LORDS OF THE RING event, that takes place at the York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on Saturday 2nd Tej zaum 2015.

Sanctioning for this event will be provided courtesy of the Malta Boxing Commission (MBC) www.maltaboxingcommission.com

Tickets priced £35 (Standard seating) and £65 (Ringside) are available direct from Marianne or any of the boxers taking part, from the Ringtone Gym in Euston, London, on-line atwww.mariannemarston.com thiab www.tkoboxoffice.com or call 07960 850645

ADONIS STEVENSON, SAKIO BIKA & ARTUR BETERBIEV MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL

Lisa Milner

Thank you, operator. Thanks everyone for calling in. We have a great call today to talk about the debut of PBC on CBS taking place next Hnub vas xaum, April 4th, from the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City, Canada. We are going to start with the main event guys it’s Adonis Stevenson, light heavyweight world champion; his trainer, “SugarHill; Sakio Bika, former super middleweight world champion; and his trainer, Kevin Cunningham. We will also have Artur Beterbiev later. His opponent is training in Spain. So, he will not be joining us. But, first let’s get some opening comments from the fighters and their trainers. Adonis, would you give us a little bit of information on how training’s going leading into next week’s fight week?

 

Adonis Stevenson

Thanks to all the media. I want to thank Al Haymon, my manager, great job. This is a good person for me and fight on CBS since like ’80 like Sugar Ray Leonard, Muhammad Ali. You know, this is amazing. And the first championship they want to start in Canada, Quebec City. This is amazing. And I’m very glad to be part of that.

 

L. Milner

Great. “SugarHill, could you add anything to that about training or comments about how Adonis is doing at camp?

SugarHill

The training camp is going fantastic. We are here in his hometown of Montreal training at his gym. His gym is just opening. So, this would be the first training camp held at this gym and for such a fight of this magnitude where Adonis is defending his world championship for the fifth time. I’ve only been here for one week any other time, but Montreal is a great place and a great place for training as well. The city has been so good and warm welcoming me here, and I see why Adonis loves Montreal, and I see why Montreal loves Adonis as well.

L. Milner

Great. Thank you. Sakio, could you give us a quick opening comment about training camp?

Sakio Bika

All right, first of all, I want to thank everybody for giving me this big opportunity at the world title. . My training camp is going really well. I want to thank God, you know, to give me this opportunity. Again, we have a good training camp here. Everyone is happy. I’m happy, and my coach is happy. All my kingdom is happy. I’m just looking for on April the 4th, to become three time world champion.

L. Milner

Awesome. Thank you. Mr. Cunningham, are you there? Could you add anything to that?

Kevin Cunningham

Yes. To piggyback on what Sakio has just said, we’ve had a tremendous training camp, great sparing. Everything is going well. Sakio understands the opportunity that’s before him, and we look to come to Canada and Montreal. And we’re going to into Adonishometown. So, I’ve been there, done that. You got to go into the lion’s den and take the title. So that’s what we’re working on doing and that’s what we plan on doing.

 

L. Milner

Great. Thank you. Okay, we’re going to go ahead and open it up for questions from the media. Operator, can you please do that?

 

Q

Adonis, so much talk about you fighting the other light heavyweight champions and who the real light heavyweight champion of the world is. What are your thoughts about these other guys and it is interfering with your concentration for your fight with Sakio on April 4th on CBS?

 

A. Stevenson

Yeah, I know they have so much talking about that, but I’m very focused on Bika now, because Bika is in my face now. I don’t see anybody. I don’t see anybody in my face now. It’s Bika. And I don’t underestimate him, and I’m very prepared for him. I will be ready for him April 4th. So, my focus is on Bika. I know that they have so many people talking to me about how to fight this, but I’m very focused on this guy.

Q

What is the procedure for drug testing before the April 4th?

A. Stevenson

Three time in the training and one time is six o’clock in the morning. So, they come into the condo and to do a drug test and two times in the training after sparing. I think it’s good for the boxers, to protect them. I’m very glad about that. And when I got to fight, I always do the test, you know? So, it is not the first time I do the test, but I always to do it. This is fantastic, I love that.

Q

Do you think it was necessary for boxing to have that kind of test?

A. Stevenson

Of course it is necessary because, is helps you. So, it is very important to make sure everything is going very well. And that’s part of boxing and that’s the evolution. I’m very glad and happy and support that.

Q

Sakio, what do you think about that?

S. Bika

I think it is very, very good because I have [unintelligible] since I’ve been here. I think it’s good for the new generation. It goes for this sport. For me, I think it is perfect. It’s perfect because, so many people [unintelligible] retire [unintelligible] drug and they never get tested. And now with new generation, I think it’s very good, you know, for younger kids to try to see if they want to win. Once you come in this sport you have to have been clean. It’s a perfect organization to get people involved in and test them. It’s the perfect thing to do.

Q

So both of you will be tested three times, two times during the training camp, one time before the fight? Is that correct, guys?

A. Stevenson

I don’t know for him, but for me it’s three time. And we do a piss test, and we do a blood test, too.

S. Bika

Yeah, for me it was three time. Then two blood testlike blood test and piss test. This is the third time them testing me since I was here.

Q

The first question that was asked to Adonis about his preparation for the upcoming fight and also the distraction around all future potential opponents, I would like to get to add the same question to Adonis again.

 

A. Stevenson

You know, the kind of stuff like Bika is wild and has shown he comeyou know, he just keep coming. The kind of stuff like that, I love this kind of stuff because he’s large and keep pressuring. And so, it shows if you make a mistake like that then it will be a knockout very soon in the fight.

Q

My question is forSugarHill. “Sugar”, I just want to know if you were pleased with the style that was chosen for this upcoming fight, if this is the type of test you were looking for as a trainer.

S. Hill

As far as looking for a style for Adonis to fightand actually it doesn’t really matter to me. I’m happy with the selection of Sakio Bika. I have no problem with his style. I actually like the style because he’s coming forward. He wants to fight, and Adonis loves to fight. Adonis likes to go to toe-to-toe, and he likes to box. This is important for the maturity and, for Adonis learning more about boxing to be able to be in it with a fighter like Sakio Bika, who’s a strong, determined and tough veteran who can withstand. He can take a punch. He’s never been knocked out or anything like that. So, this is an opportunity for Adonis to maybe go 12 rounds or into the later rounds, which can build and add to his career as fighting in later rounds, which he has been able to do. This fight here with Bika is a test, and Adonis loves to be tested. I love for him to be tested as well. This is the only thing that’s going to make him grow and become more of a talented fighter and become a bigger superstar.

Q

Adonis, are you looking at a tough 12 round fight or do you see it as motivation as to being the first to knock this guy out if that opportunity presents itself?

A. Stevenson

It is motivation for me. That’s why I train very hard. I know he’s large as well in his punch. And he wants to keep me pressured. I love this kind of style. And if he goes for 12 rounds I’m ready for 12 muab suav. I fight and spar. My fight is, sparing and training for 12 rounds.When I get in the ring, I’m looking for the knockout. I don’t look for the 12 round. If he goes the distance or 12 muab suav, this is not a problem. I can box. I’m beautiful. I got a good skill. I’m a Superman. So, it’s not a problem for me. But, first I’m looking for a knockout. And I think any boxer going in the ring to fight always looks for a knockout. Sometimes, it’s not like that. But, me, I’m looking for the knockout. And Emanuel said knockouts sell.

Q

You said that you weren’t impressed with Kovalev’s performance over Jean Pascal. Do you want to put on a better performance? Do you feel pressure to put on a better performance since you said that? What do you think about that?

A. Stevenson

I’m not going to put pressure on myself. “Supermandoesn’t feel pressure. I’m going to use my boxing skill, and I’m going to use my head in the ring. I don’t have to put pressure on something like that. I don’t feel like that. I’m the man. I’m the guy to get beat.

Q

Was Sakio Bika the first opponent they offered to you?

A. Stevenson

Yeah, it was the first. He was the first to open. We’re happy, and we don’t have a problem. And I know Sakio he was lightno, super middleweight champion. It’s very good, because he’s a good boxer. He was champion last two fights. That’s a good opportunity for him, too, to go from light a heavyweight to fight me. And it’s a good opportunity for me, too.

Q

I want to ask you at what point did you say to yourself, “I have to fight,” los sis “I want to fight Sergey Kovalev to unify all the belts in the division.At what point did you say that in your career?

A. Stevenson

I don’t think about Kovalev now. I think about Bika. It doesn’t matter what I said now because I have a fight coming up with Bika. But, sure I want to fight for titles, but nowfor now I’ve got Bika in my face.

Q

You were not impressed with the way that Kovalev looked in the fight the other week against Pascal. Why?

A. Stevenson

I’m not impressed by it because this is the first big fight Pascal had since Bernard and he fights one time a year before Bernard Hopkins. So, in four years he fights one time. So, that’s why I’m not impressed about that, because Pascal is not an active boxer like he used to be back in the day.

 

Q

You know that Kovalev, because of the WBC is going to be mandatory. I want to know how hard will you press for that mandatory if you’re successful again.

A. Stevenson

Of course, I know. I’m ready to fight a title. But, I let my team, Al Haymon, care about that. Then after that Kovalev we can unify the title. It’s not a problem for me because the two titles he gets now he gets Bernard Hopkinstitle, and I should fight Bernard Hopkins.

Q

This is a fight that’s going to be on national television in the United States, free TV. Have you given any thought about the fact that you’ll be performing in front of an audience probably bigger than has ever seen you fight ever?

A. Stevenson

Of course. This is a good opportunity for that. And first of all, I want to thank Al Haymon for that, too, because, that’s him putting on the show. And since Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard, back in the day it was free. Now, we offer the public the fight for free and that’s a great opportunity for me. So, I have a good performance for Sakio Bika. But, I know Sakio Bika is a tough opponent and he’s very awkward and tough. We’ll prepare for that, and we’re ready. It’s also very good for the young kids, watching the fight. It’s a good opportunity for everybody.

Q

With that big potential audience watching wouldn’t that put you in a position where you’re looking for a knockout?

A. Stevenson

Of course. That gives me a lot of motivation. That’s why I train really hard for this fight and watchso people watch me. Since Muhammad Ali, I’m the first to be poor and the projects. So, I’m very, very happy, and I’m going to put a good performance. Like Emanuel said, knockouts sell.

Q

Adonis, where are you training this week? And then, when are you actually going to Quebec City?

A. Stevenson

You know I opened a new gym in Quebec City. This is a good opportunity for me to train in my hometown. This is the first time since 2011. I can see my kid, too. So, I love that. And we train very hard, me and my trainer. We put the hard work pay off. This is different. This is a good opportunity for me, and I love that.

Q

So, you’re in Quebec City now then?

A. Stevenson

I’m in Montreal now. Quebec City, I’m going this week.

Q

So, when will you actually go to Quebec City?

A. Stevenson

Hnub xya.

Q

Again, my question goes to Adonis. I just want to know if a knockout is the result that you absolutely need or would you be disappointed if you didn’t win by a knockout against Bika?

A. Stevenson

I know Bika is a tough opponent. So, I’m prepared for 12 muab suav. If the knockout is there, it’s there. If it’s not, it’s not. But, in the ring, I’m looking for the knockout. So, it doesn’t matter for me, but I’m always looking for the knockout. That’s a Kronk. The Kronk Gym and my team we’re looking for that. Since the Kronk it’s been a while. They’re always looking for the knockout. If you’re training in the Kronk Gym and any fighter is looking for the knockout.

Q

But, it can be dangerous to always be looking for a knockout because then if you don’t get it as quickly as you want then you can get away from your style of boxing. Is that something that worries you?

A. Stevenson

We can go 12 round. It’s not a problem for me. We train for that. We train for that. I can go 12 round. And I’m from Kronk Gym, Detroit. And this place, we have a good, good trainer like EmanuelSugarHill. They know boxing. They teach me very well my skill and everything and my balance. They know boxing. And so, they know if the knockout is not there, but we’re going to work. We’re going to use the good ability to go for 12 muab suav. It’s not a problem.

Q

Sakio, I just want to know, how does it feel for you in this training camp to train for a light heavyweight fight after having spent pretty much your entire career at a super middleweight?

S. Bika

I feel it was a new challenge to go up and try to fight the big bull. When you see my regimen, nobody ever wants to fight me. It was always a little bit difficult because people don’t want to fight me. For me it’s a big challenge because Stevenson, Adonis is a great champion and I want to become the world champion in life. I’m very sure I can handle him. And come Tim 4, because I have a good preparation, , a great sparing partner, I just looking for you to see how I can handle the big bull. Adonis is the first one for me at this weight, but I just feel confident, I feel positive. I’m ready, you know, to go there and show the people in the world I can beat Adonis Stevenson on Tim 4. I want to tell the big bull. I want to move up in light heavyweight division, thiabTim 4 people are going to be see it.

Q

Does the weight feel better for you? Do you see yourself staying at light heavyweight?

S. Bika

I see myself like a light heavyweight. I see myself at light heavyweight because you see so many world champions. For me just it’s just a challenge. I want to challenge myself. I can do light heavy easy. It would be a struggle to do super middleweight. You know, I can do light heavyweight really easily. I can handle the big bull, because I handle everyone. This is a big opportunity for me to try to see if can I handle the big bull. I can handle Adonis. come Tim 4, I will try to test myself. You all ready? I’m ready. I have a good preparation,. We train very hard for this fight. I’m just looking to come to Quebec and take care of business.

Q

At the same time you were at the Sergey Kovalev/Jean Pascal fight, and you went over to HBO commentator at the time, Bernard Hopkins, and you told him that you guarantee that you will fight Sergey Kovalev. I wanted to see what your answer was to what you think of Sergey Kovalev and his performance Rau hnub Saturdaynight a couple of weekends ago.

A. Stevenson

Pascal doesn’t matter now because we’re talking about Bika. I go to fight Tim 4 with Bika. It’s a very tough thing about Bika and Kovalev is not a person now when I think about the fight with Kovalev and Pascal and then after I said, “Well, yeah, I’m going to fight.He’s not a person for me now. The person now is Bika.

Q

You guaranteed that your next fight would be against Kovalev back in May of last year after 12 rounds against Fonfara. You beat Fonfara.

A. Stevenson

You can’t guarantee. It’s not working like that. It’s not football. It’s not hockey. And one punch can change anything. So now I got Bika in my face, and I’m very focused with Bika, because I know this guy gives problems to all the champions. He was champion. And I know this fighter is tough.

L. Milner

Okay. Gentlemen, thank you so much for your time. I think this call really set in motion a great week and a half heading into the fight. So, thank you so much. We’re going to switch over to Mr. Beterbiev.

Artur Beterbiev

I like my training, and I am training hard. And it was all planned. So, it all went according to the plan. It’s a serious opponent. I can’t wait to have that fight.

Q

Artur, you defeated Sergey Kovalev in the amateurs. What do you think of him as far as a professional opponent right now?

A. Beterbiev

Taking into consideration all his statements that he recently produced, I would like to meet with him and put him back in his place in professional.

Q

What do you remember about him as a guy who’s fighting you? What do you remember?

A. Beterbiev

I have a very good memory. So, I did beat him twice in the amateur ranks, but I’m more focused on the future right now. I would like to beat him again.

Q

Artur, could you describe how you feel your career is going up at this point?

A. Beterbiev

I like the way I’ve been led in my professional career. I’m training everyday and working everyday and always thinking about that. I always try to improve and improve my not that strong parts, as part of my preparation.I’m not a future teller. So, I’m ready to meet all the solid opponents. And I’m ready for the championship of the world, and I’m ready for any case scenario.

Q

Is there any interest in you fighting the winner of Stevenson/Bika?

A. Beterbiev

I could fight anybody.

Q

What do you think of Campillo and what kind of challenges does Campillo presents to you because he has so much more professional experience than he has?

A. Beterbiev

Yes, I have a lot of respect for Campillo because he’s very experienced. For sure he has more experience than I do. He has experience winning and losing, and he’s a solid opponent, but the fight’s going to show if his professional language could help him in this fight.

Q

What do you learn from a knockdown?

A Beterbiev

I don’t think that was a knockdown. I just lost my balance for an instant. I recovered right away instantly. But I still think that this is a good lesson for me for this not to happen in the future. And I’m going to try to avoid any dangerous situations in my future.

Q

How do you see Campillo, what kind of a fighter is he, and is there any part of his styleany elements of his style that can be worrisome?

A. Beterbiev

This is a solid opponent.He’s working very well, very experienced at attack. He’s very experienced at defense. The fight is going to show what’s going to happen.

L. Milner

Okay, great. Thank you. Thank you, Artur. Thanks everybody for being on. A special thanks to the media. This is a great show April 4th on regular CBS, PBC on CBS right from Quebec City. So, thank you so much and have a great day.

 

# # #

 

PBC on CBS, headlined by the light heavyweight world championship fight between Stevenson and Bika, is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) and presented by Videotron and in association with Mise-O-Jeu.
Tickets are on sale now at the Pepsi Coliseum box office in Quebec, by calling (418) 691-7211 los sis (800) 900-7469, hauv online (online) www.billetech.com, at GYM (514) 383-0666 and Champion Boxing Club (514) 376-0980. Ticket prices range from $25 mus $250 on the floor.

For more information visit www.sports.sho.com thiab www.groupeyvonmichel.ca, follow on Twitter at @SHOSports, @yvonmichelgym, @AdonisSuperman and @Sakio_Bika, follow the conversation using #StevensonBika, become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog at http://theboxingblog.sho.com.