Category Archives: CBS Boxing

Real life “Rocky” moment at hand for  Las Vegas’ Patrick Gutierrez

 
Make or break fight for underdog vs.
2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez
 March 25 on CBS Sports Network live from Kansas Star Arena 
MULVANE, Kansas (February 23, 2017) – Flyweight Patrick Gutierrez is going into his nationally-televised, main event showdown, March 25 in Kansas with high expectations against pro-debuting 2016 Olympic junior flyweight bronze medalist Nico Hernandez.  Gutierrez is training hard in Las Vegas for his scheduled six-round “Knockout Night Boxing: History Begins” headline bout to derail hometown hero Hernandez’ coming out party
“This fight is make or break for me,” the 22-year-old Gutierrez said about his ‘Rocky’-like moment.  The crowd won’t bother me because I enjoy fighting in front of large crowds. I’ve learned the hard way that, fighting my opponent in his backyard, I can’t leave it in the hands of the judges. I watched Nico fight in the Olympics.  I have a lot of respect for him and was proud of him for winning the bronze medal for our country.  But, I also saw some flaws from the fight that he lost.  He’s in trouble if he hasn’t corrected those flaws.”
“Knockout Night Boxing: History Begins” will air live on CBS Sports Network. At 9:00 p.m. ET from Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.  Knockout Night Boxing LLC is the licensed promoter of the March 25th event, in association with Kansas Star Casino, and it is sponsored by Miller Lite, Mel Hambelton FORD and TITLE Boxing.
The CBS Sports Network all-star announcing team for “History Begins” will include Hall-of-Famer Jim “J.R.” RossSean Wheelock and Joey VarnerJustin Roberts will be the ring announcer.
Hernandez, 21, was a highly-decorated amateur boxer (94-5) who is like a sports franchise in his hometown of Wichita.
A national Taekwondo champion as a youngster, Gutierrez played football in high school, at least until he realized that he had stopped growing, eliminating the possibility that he’d ever play college football.  He had always liked combat sports and decided to try boxing.
“I fell in love with boxing right away,” Gutierrez admitted.  “I live in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, and Floyd Mayweather (Jr.) was at his prime there when I first started boxing.  I boxed in California (Orange County) and won a three-day tournament there as an amateur.  I decided to turn pro but, due to some broken promises, I didn’t make my pro debut for two years.  So, I just focused on training.  I broke my wrist in the second round of my first fight but decided to stick with boxing.  Six months later, I fought a California kid (Alexander Enriquez) in Los Angeles and felt that I had won all four rounds.  I could tell because the large crowd was silent throughout the fight.  I’ve learned the hard way, the past four years, but I’m still young and getting better every day.  I had an easy fight scheduled for March 11 when (promoter) John Andersen called offering me this fight.  I wanted to restart my career and jumped at the opportunity to fight Nico.  I decided to take the risk to fight an Olympic medalist in his hometown.  I just love fighting and I’m not going there to lose.”
The eight-round co-feature shapes up as a southpaw battle between a rooster and bull.  Rising junior middleweight star Neeco “Rooster” Macias (14-0, 8 KOs) puts his undefeated record on the line against dangerous Arturo “El Toro” Crespin (13-8-1, 4 KOs).   Macias is a showman from Palm Desert, California, whose non-stop style makes him an instant fan favorite wherever he fights. His “Rooster” persona will be perfect for his first pro fight in Kansas.
Kansas cruiserweight Jeff Page, Jr. (17-3, 11 KOs), will open the televised portion of card in a six-round bout against an opponent to be determined.
Scheduled to fight on the non-televised undercard, in separate four-round matches, are four Kansas boxers: Kansas State junior middleweight champion Efrain Morales (4-0, 1 KO), super middleweight Marcio Navarro and featherweight Eric Vargas (1-0, 1 KO). They will all face opponents to be determined.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Ticket prices are $115.00 (ringside, rows 1 & 2), $75.00 (floor seats, rows 3-5), $60.00 (floor seats, floor rows after 1-5), $35.00 (lower bowl) and $25.00 (upper bowl).  Suites seating up to 22 people are available to purchase for $2,500 (includes non-alcohol beverages and food).
Tickets are available to purchase at www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena
or www.ticketmaster.com. All ages show.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Kansas_Star, @Neonstarmedia
Follow Nico Hernandez on Twitter & Instagram @Nicomhernandez

DANNY GARCIA HAS CANDID CONVERSATION ABOUT THE ROLE OF HIS FATHER & THRIVING AS AN UNDERDOG IN THE REVEAL WITH MARK KRIEGEL

 

 

THE REVEAL with Mark Kriegel: Danny Garcia: http://s.sho.com/2m8unol

 

Danny Garcia opened up about his father Angel, his challenging childhood, and not getting the respect he deserves in an intimate conversation with award-winning reporter Mark Kriegel.  The interview is the latest in a recurring SHOWTIME Sports digital series, THE REVEAL with Mark Kriegel, featuring exclusive and in-depth interviews with boxing’s emerging stars.

 

Garcia, the WBC Welterweight World Champion, and Kriegel spoke in a wide-ranging conversation prior to his long-awaited unification showdown with fellow undefeated WBA Welterweight Champ Keith Thurman on Saturday, March 4 on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, from Barclays Center, live on CBS from 9-11 p.m. ET/6-8 p.m. PT.

 

Below are bites from THE REVEAL:

 

Garcia on his father’s incarceration while he was a child:

“I was just a kid, I was confused.  I didn’t know what was going on.  I didn’t understand until I got older.  I think that’s what motivated me today to be the best fighter I can be.

 

“The things I’ve been through as a kid – waking up on your birthday not even knowing it’s your birthday, not having a birthday cake – so it’s just a lot of things we went through in life that made me who I am today.”

 

Garcia on his father’s approach to tough parenting and coaching following a loss in the amateurs:

“I love him for that because we have a perfect chemistry.  I needed him, he needed me.  I was a talented kid, but he made me believe in myself.  I just loved boxing, I was just having fun…but to him, he was working, he was providing for the family.  This was our way out.  And once he told me that I never looked at it like that again.  I took it serious and I just became the best fighter I could be.”

 

Garcia when asked by Kriegel who is the most dangerous fighter in the division:

“Danny Garcia.  You know why?  Danny Garcia has always been the underdog and overlooked his whole career.  And I’ve never been given the credit I deserve ever since I was a little kid.  But you know what?  It’s OK.  I want people to overlook me so that when my hand is raised at the end of the night, what can they say?”

 

# # #

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA

Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Set for pro debut on Knockout Night Boxing card

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“History Begins”
 
 March 25 on CBS Sports Network live from Kanas Star Arena 

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez
 
Press Conference quotes below
(All pictures courtesy of Courtney Wells / Kansas Star)
 
MULVANE, Kansas (February 16, 2017) – 2016 Olympic junior flyweight bronze medalist Nico Hernandez will make his professional boxing debut at home on Saturday, March 25 (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) on CBS Sports Network. He will headline “Knockout Night Boxing: History Begins” live from Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.
A press conference was held today at Kansas Star to announce the show, as well as Hernandez signing a promotional contract with Knockout Night Boxing LLC, the promoter of the March 25th event, in association with Kansas Star Casino and sponsored by Miller Lite. Neon Media Sports & Entertainment is the parent company of Knockout Night Boxing.
“I reached the highest-level I could in my amateur career and it was time for me to turn pro,” Hernandez said.  “I’ve always wanted to make my pro debut in my hometown, Wichita.  My plan is to do it like Terence Crawford has done in Omaha.  I’m hoping it works out as well for me.  I signed with Knockout Night Boxing because they’re really going to work with me and I like what they want to do.”
The all-star announcing team for “History Begins” will include Hall-of-Famer Jim “J.R.” Ross, Sean Wheelock and Joey Varner, while Justin Roberts serves as ring announcer.
The 21-year-old Hernandez’ long anticipated pro debut will be against flyweight Patrick Gutierrez (0-2), fighting out of the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas (NV), in the six-round main event.
Hernandez was a highly-decorated amateur boxer (94-5) whose accomplishments, in addition to capturing a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics in Brazil, include eight-time Ringside World Championships and six-time consecutive Silver Gloves National Championships winner, as well as 2014 National Golden Gloves gold medalist.
Patrick Gutierrez (L), promoter John Anderson and Nico Hernandez
Undefeated rising junior middleweight star Neeco “Rooster” Macias (14-0, 8 KOs) takes on Arturo “El Toro” Crespin (13-8-1, 4 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature.  Macias is a colorful, fan-friendly fighter from Palm Desert, California, who is the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) United States 154-pound division champion.
Kansas cruiserweight Jeff Page, Jr. (17-3, 11 KOs),  will open the televised portion of card in a six-round bout against an opponent to be determined.
Scheduled to fight on the non-televised undercard, in separate four-round matches, are four Kansas boxers: Kansas State junior middleweight champion Efrain Morales (4-0, 1 KO) faces Brandon Philips (1-2); cruiserweight Chris Harris (2-2-2, 2 KOs), super middleweight Marcio Navarro and featherweight Eric Vargas (1-0, 1 KO) will meet opponents to be determined.
(L-R) — Jeff Page, Jr., Patrick Gutierrez, promoter John Andersen, Eric Vargas and Efrain Morales
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Ticket prices are $115.00 (ringside, rows 1 & 2), $75.00 (floor seats, rows 3-5), $60.00 (floor seats, floor rows after 1-5), $35.00 (lower bowl) and $25.00 (upper bowl).  Suites seating up to 22 people are available to purchase for $2,500 (includes non-alcohol beverages and food). Tickets are available to purchase via pre-sale tomorrow (Friday, Feb. 17), starting at 10 a.m. CT (use presale code: KOBOX), at www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena.  Tickets go on sale this Saturday (Feb. 18) at 10 a.m. CT at www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena, and
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.
PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
Nico Hernandez: “I want to thank everybody for coming here today to Kansas Star.  I also want to thank my opponent for stepping up.  I’m training hard and don’t take anything for granted.  I hope to put on a great show.”
Patrick Gutierrez: “I want to thank Nico and his team.  He represented our country so well and I’m honored to be fighting him in five weeks.  It’s a big fight, make or break for me.  If I can pull it off, it’ll be a jump start for my career. I plan to put on a good show.  I’m coming to fight and I’ll be putting in a lot of hard work.”
Jeff Page, Jr.: “I want to thank everybody here.  It’s been fun watching Nico fight and I’m blessed to be fighting on his pro-debut card.”
Efrain Morales: Thank you for this opportunity.  It’s an honor to be fighting on the same card as Nico’s pro debut.  I’m grown up watching Nico fight and I’m excited to be on hi card,”
Eric Vargas: “It’s a huge opportunity for me to fight on Nico’s card.  I’m coming out big.”
Mike Garrow, CEO, Neon Star Sports & Entertainment: “First off, I would like to thank, on behalf of “‘Knockout Night Boxing’ on CBS Sports Network, all fighters here today and also those competing on the card, Saturday, March 25th, at Kansas Star Arena. It is you that fans are coming to see and we are excited once again to provide a platform with ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ for you to showcase your skills and dedication to the sport.  That is one of the core philosophies of the ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ series: to provide a platform for the stars of tomorrow – today – to shine on Saturday, March 25th. Wichita’s own Olympic medalist, Nico Hernandez, will make his pro debut as he takes on Patrick Gutierrez from Las Vegas.  History will begin!
“In closing, we would like to thank you, fans and media, for coming out today to support ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ on CBS Sports Network and we look forward to you also being part of ‘History Begins’ on Saturday, March 25th.”
John Andersen, Promoter, Knockout Night Boxing: “Let me start by saying what an absolute pleasure it’s been working with Kansas Star. Our mission Knockout Night Boxing is to help put Kansas on the boxing map.  What better way to do that than announcing our signing of Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez to the Knockout Night Boxing Team?  I feel having Nico fight in his hometown, in the main event on CBS Sports Network, is exactly what an Olympian like Nico deserves for what he’s accomplished, not only for himself, but for the state of Kansas. It is such an honor for us to showcase him in the main event, on national television, for the boxing world to see.
“This is a can’t-miss show, loaded with Kansas fighters like Jeff Page, Jr., Efrain Morales, Eric Vargas and others.  Let’s not forget that ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ series is known for putting on well matched fights and this card will not disappoint.  Nico will have his hands full with Patrick Gutierrez.  I also would like to announce the return of Neeco “Rooster” Macias on our series.  You guys will be in for a real treat watching this kid fight.  He is one of a kind.  Come support your very own Nico Hernandez in what will really be a can’t-miss show where ‘History Begins!”
Dan Ihm, Vice President & General Manager, Kansas Star: “I’m very excited about today’s announcement of this event that will be held right behind me in Kansas Star Arena.  We’ve hosted a lot of events – equestrian, MMA and national entertainment acts – but this will be the first time it’s boxing.  We’re very excited.”
Pete Meitzner, City Councilor from Hernandez’ district in Wichita: “On behalf of the mayor (Jeff Longwell) and City Council, we’re so proud of and excited for Nico.  He’s elevated the excitement in this city (Wichita), state and country.  For him to continue his story here in the next stage of his life is great.  I want to thank Kansas Star and Boyd Gaming for all they do.”
Adam Roorbach:  Executive Director, Kansas Athletic Commission: “For the past 2 1/2 years, since I’ve been on the commission, we’ve had some great fights It’s exciting for Mr. Hernandez to make his pro debut in Kansas. I’m familiar with some of these other (fighters) faces from fights in Kansas and I’m glad they will be able to showcase their skills here on a larger stage.  I’m looking forward to the fights.”
Lewis Hernandez, trainer/father of Nico Hernandez: “This is an opportunity we’ve been waiting for a long time.  I want to thank Patrick for stepping up.  We don’t take anybody lightly.  This is going to be a great fight.”
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Kansas_Star, @Neonstarmedia
Follow Nico Hernandez on Twitter & Instagram @Nicomhernandez

Erickson Lubin Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Unbeaten Super Welterweight Battles
Once-Beaten Contender Jorge Cota Saturday, March 4 on
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
From Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Douglas DeFelice/Prime 360
 
ORLANDO (February 16, 2017) Undefeated rising star Erickson “Hammer” Lubinhosted media at his gym in his hometown of Orlando Thursday as he prepares to face once-beaten contender Jorge Cota Saturday, March 4 in a 12-round super welterweight world title eliminator on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented byPremier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
 
Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by the welterweight world title unification showdown between unbeaten fighters Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what Lubin and his trainer had to say Thursday:
 
ERICKSON LUBIN
 
“I haven’t stopped training since my last fight on December 10. We have been full throttle since.
“This is a big fight. It is a title eliminator. It is at Barclays Center. It is on CBS. You’ve got Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman in the main event. It is 12-rounds. This is definitely what I’ve dreamed of. This is the kind of opportunity that I’ve wanted. Getting to seize the moment. Going out there, dominating the fight and going on to become the mandatory challenger for the title.
“We always say that we aren’t training for the fight coming up, we’ve training for the title. I’ve prepared for this. To be the youngest world champion, we just saw Gervonta Davis do that and make history like that is a blessing. I can’t wait to go for that.
“The fans can expect straight fireworks. I am going to go out there and dominate the fight. A lot of fighters say they’re going to do something, but I am the type of guy that says it and lives up to it. March 4 fans definitely want to tune in.
[On the “Hammer” ring name] “There are hammers in my hands. They punish and do damage. A hammer with fireworks is dangerous isn’t it?
“It is my first time fighting in Brooklyn. I expect a lot of stars to be there. A lot of people having their eyes on me. I am expecting to become the mandatory for the belt and for everyone to know my name.
“2017 is a big year. To be in this position right now is a great start for the year and to become a mandatory challenger is bigger and becoming a world champion is the biggest. I want to be undisputed.”
 
JASON GALARZA, Lubin’s Trainer
“I’ve known Erickson since he was eight-years-old. He had an aura about him back then and he still has it. He continues to be a hard-working individual. He has this drive that most athletes don’t have, but the great ones do.
“There are a lot of people that don’t know of him, but there are actually a lot that do. We are going to go up to Brooklyn and show the fans at Barclays Center and the world, what we do and what he is made of.
“We have a family-based gym here. The guys that have been around Erickson from the beginning. We hit the road for the first two years of his career. We did our homework. I learned from a lot of top coaches, what to do and what not to do.
“I learned what I should and shouldn’t do to train a professional, but you can’t teach the chemistry that he and I have. When you are in with him, you are all the way in.
“People have told me that Erickson isn’t ready for Cota. I believe this is the right time. He pushes himself, he is a student of the game and always has been. The difference with this training camp from others is that we know who our opponent is. We have focused on that one individual, so we know.
“I’m from Brooklyn and I haven’t been there in about seven years. So Erickson is bringing me home.
“Fans can expect fireworks. This kid is very explosive. They will see a mature fighter at 21 years old. He will have so many more fans after March 4th.”
# # #
ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA
Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Keith Thurman Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Undefeated World Champion Battles Danny Garcia in Main Event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
Saturday, March 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Prime 360 Photography
 
ST. PETERSBURG, FL (February 15, 2017) – Undefeated world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman hosted media at his training camp in St. Petersburg, FL Wednesday as he prepares to face fellow welterweight world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battling once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what Thurman had to say Wednesday from the St. Petersburg Boxing Club:
KEITH THURMAN
“At the end of the day, it’s just another fight. My job has not changed since I was seven years old. This is the sport that I love. The name of the game to hit and not get hit, but you know I’m looking to inflict some damage as well.
“I know Danny is confident coming into this fight. He’s trying to challenge me and hurt me. I have an ‘0’ and I’m not ready to let it go. If you think you can beat me, beat me. It’s going down on March 4.
“You can expect a world class fight. We’re both great champions with impressive skills. We’re going to be pushing each other and testing each other. I see myself as the smarter fighter. I’ve shown that I can adjust in the middle of a fight. With the experience that I have, I go in there with an objective I’m trying to achieve. If it’s not happening, then I have to use something else.
“Ultimately, my heart desires victory at this stage and at this level. I’m looking to do what I do best. Which is be a smart fighter, look for the openings and if I can cause some damage, hopefully I can capitalize on that.
“I showed against Shawn Porter that when you fully challenge me and make me gut it out, I’m there. I’m a champion and this champion doesn’t lie down for anybody. That fight was a tremendous fight and we showed that we understand each other as fighters.
“I thought to myself after eight rounds against Porter, ‘this fight is tied.’ Nothing that happened in the first eight rounds mattered. The fight was going to be decided in four rounds, just like the amateurs. I had to do what Ben Getty always said, ‘smart fighters win and dumb fighters lose.’
“I just want to keep moving myself up and establishing my legacy. I want to distinguish myself from the other welterweights. The winner of this fight will get the spotlight over everyone else in the division.
“I’m doing this for my career, for my legacy and for the fans. Without the fans, there’s no legacy. I’ve been boxing for 21 years of my life and I look forward to having some more great years. I’m proud to be living my dream.
“To get two tremendous fights back-to-back is evidence that I’m on the right track and you could say we’re gaining more power in the sport. I’m getting what I want out of the sport, which are big fights like this.
“This is something that the fans are excited about and I’m truly looking forward to this fight. I just want to keep living my dreams and working to become the best fighter in the world.
“Establishing a unification of a weight class is my ultimate goal in the sport of boxing. That’s what we’re working for.”
DAN BIRMINGHAM, Thurman’s Trainer
“The preparation has been fantastic. Keith has been on both. His long runs, short runs, sprinting, listening to everything in the gym not to mention great sparring. You are going to see a great performance.
“This is a dream come true for me. I never dreamed of this when I was Youngstown, OH before I came to Florida. When I came here there were guys like Jeff Lacy and Winky Wright that came into my gym who I’ve been fortunate enough to work with. Then came Ben Getty and Keith Thurman.
“I owe most of this to Ben Getty. I want him to get a lot of the recognition. He really deserves it. I am just trying to continue what he started.
“Fans are going to see a great performance. They are going to see a well-conditioned, well-trained Keith Thurman. He is very focused on getting rid of Garcia and moving up in the ranks.”
#          #          #
The two-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS broadcast will be just the second primetime boxing presentation on the CBS Television Network in nearly 40 years.  It is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and produced by SHOWTIME Sports® for CBS Television, both divisions of the CBS Corporation.
ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA
Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Undefeated World Champion Battles  Keith Thurman in Main Event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS Presented by Premier Boxing Champions Saturday, March 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn

Danny Garcia Media Workout Quotes & Photos
 
 
Click HERE for Photos from Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Garcia & Thurman Workout Photos from
Premier Boxing Champions
 
PHILADELPHIA (February 15, 2017) – Undefeated world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia hosted Philadelphia media at his training camp Wednesday as he prepares to face fellow welterweight world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battling once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what Garcia and his father and trainer, Angel, had to say Wednesday from DSG Boxing Gym:
DANNY GARCIA
“At the end of the day, I prepare myself to be 100 percent ready for anything Thurman does. I’m a true champion because I’m able to adapt to anything he can bring.
“Training camp has been crucial. We’re working hard and pushing ourselves to the limit. We’ve done everything we have to do so far. It’s almost fight time.
“We’re just working smart and hard. We’re sharpening and working on a great game plan. I have to stick to the game plan and adjust if I have to.
“I’ve been in a lot of big fights, so I can’t psych myself out. On March 4 I’m going to show the world again why I’m a real champion.
“There’s no better feeling than unifying the title. I did it at 140 and now I have the chance to accomplish my goals at 147. It’s up to me to take advantage of it.
“There’s been a lot of trash talk, but come March 4, that’s all over. We each need to do what we do best, and that’s win.
“I think I have a lot of advantages. One of them is that Barclays Center is like a second home. I’m the sharper, more patient and more battle-tested fighter. I’ll prove it on March 4.
“Thurman’s fight against Porter was a good fighter but I’m a different fighter than Shawn Porter. I bring a whole different skill set.
“It feels good to represent my city. This is what Philadelphia fighters are all about. We rise to the occasion. I’ve been doing it my whole career.
“There’s a lot of pressure on me to be the best. That’s what keeps me focused. I think about the eyes that are going to be on me and I have to go in there and look my best. These kind of fights really bring out the best in me.”
ANGEL GARCIA, Danny’s Father & Trainer
“For me it’s an important fight every time Danny steps in that ring. We train the same way no matter who the opponent is. We have to take everybody very seriously. There’s nothing easy in life. From the beginning of his career to its end.
“Thurman is undefeated but just because they call him ‘One Time’ doesn’t mean he’s going to do that to Danny. My son has a great chin. We don’t know about Thurman’s chin. He hasn’t fought a guy like Danny. This is a good sight for Danny to take into even bigger successes.
“Danny has power just like Keith. We’re not scared of him. This is the hurt game. You know you’re going to get hit. We just don’t know if he can take a punch.
“You can bet your money on whoever you want. At the end of the night, I know what Danny is going to bring to the table. At the end of the night, he’s going to be the new unified champion of the world.”

DANNY GARCIA & KEITH THURMAN JOIN RECORD BOOKS & ELITE GROUP OF LEGENDS IN MARCH 4 WELTERWEIGHT UNIFICATION

 

Just The Third Unification Between Undefeated Welterweights In Boxing History

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Live on CBS From Barclays Center In Brooklyn

 

NEW YORK (Feb. 15, 2017) – Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Tommy Hearns.  Felix Trinidad vs.  Oscar De La Hoya.  Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao. 

 

That is the elite company welterweight champions Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman will join when they meet in just the 10thunification in division history on Saturday, March 4 on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, live on CBS from 9-11 p.m. ET/6-8 p.m. PT.

 

Garcia, the WBC titleholder, and Thurman, the WBA champion, will unify the exact same titles that Leonard (WBC) and Hearns (WBA) unified in their 1981 Fight of the Year. 

 

And while Hearns was undefeated and Leonard entered with one loss, Garcia (33-0, 19 KOs) and Thurman (27-0, 22 KOs) will meet in just the third unification between undefeated welterweights in boxing history, the first since Trinidad vs. De La Hoya in 1999, a bout billed as “The Fight of the Millennium.”

 

Garcia vs. Thurman will be broadcast in Primetime on CBS, the first unification on network television in any division in over two decades (Note: Terry Norris vs. Paul Vaden at 154-pounds on Dec. 16, 1995 on FOX).  It’s also just the second primetime boxing presentation on the CBS Television Network in nearly 40 years. 

 

While Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman are joining a who’s who of legendary 147-pounders, their showdown also presents current implications in boxing’s glamour division.  With the retirement of pound-for-pound kingpin Floyd Mayweather, Garcia and Thurman, both just 28 years old, meet with a chance to become the new face of the stacked 147-pound division, and perhaps earn a spot on the mythical pound-for-pound list. 

 

More than 80 percent of the total punches landed by Garcia are power shots, putting his high-octane power punch output nearly 10 percent higher than the welterweight average.

 

Keith Thurman ranks No. 4 amongst all current boxers in percentage of power punches landed, connecting at 48.2 percent according to Compubox.  That’s more than 10 percent better than the welterweight average. 

 

Both fighters are young, hungry and undefeated.  Their bout on March 4 is the quintessential career-defining fight.  It is a chance for both to add to their growing legacy and potentially, ultimately, be forever linked with every boxing great in the coveted International Boxing Hall of Fame.   

 

Note: Welterweight Unifications (9) In Boxing History

·         Jackie Fields (NBA) W DQ 2 Joe Dundee (World) 7-25-29

·         Sugar Ray Leonard (WBC) KO 14 Thomas Hearns (WBA) 9-16-81

·         Donald Curry (WBA, IBF) KO 3 Milton McCrory (WBA) 12-6-85

·         Simon Brown (IBF) KO 10 Maurice Blocker (WBC) 3-18-91

·         Felix Trinidad (IBF) W 12 Oscar De La Hoya (WBC) 9-18-99

·         Ricardo Mayorga (WBA) KO 3 Vernon Forrest (WBC) 1-25-03

·         Cory Spinks (IBF) W 12 Ricardo Mayorga (WBA, WBC) 12-13-03

·         Floyd Mayweather (WBC, WBA Super) W 12  Marcos Maidana (WBA) 5-3-14

·         Floyd Mayweather (WBC, WBA Super) Manny Pacquiao (WBO) 5-2-15

Note: Curry-McCrory and Trinidad-DLH were matchups of unbeatens.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA

Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising starErickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Neon Star Sports & Entertainment Launches New Promotional Company Knockout Night Boxing

LAS VEGAS (February 13, 2017) – Neon Star Sports & Entertainment (NSSE) Inc. has announced the formation of its promotional company, Knockout Night Boxing LLC. The company will be responsible for promoting and co-promoting “Knockout Night Boxing,” a series that airs on CBS Sports Network across North America. Additional broadcast partners will also be announced in the coming weeks.
“Knockout Night Boxing LLC is a fight-friendly promotion that provides a platform for athletes to showcase their skills while building their own brand,” said Knockout Night Boxing president/promoter John Andersen.
“Our ‘Knockout Night at the D’ series on CBS Sports Network last year was a huge hit, and so we are excited to expand across the United States and Mexico with our partner Pepe Gomez,” added Neon Star Sports & Entertainment CEO Mike Garrow. “Currently, the ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ series has 20 television dates scheduled for 2017. We are looking forward to delivering fight fans non-stop, action-packed excitement.”
Whit Haydon will serve as talent relations recruiter and Marvin Romero is the matchmaker.  The rotating television team consists of Hall-of-Famer announcers Jim “J.R.” Ross and Al Bernstein, as well as veterans Sean Wheelock and Joey Varner.  The primary ring announcer is Justin Roberts, who was the WWE ring announcer for 14 years.
INFORMATION:
Twitter:  @Neonstarmedia

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media-378687919005532/

Exciting Matchup Between Polish Light Heavyweight Contender Andrzej Fonfara & Former Three-Time World Champion Chad Dawson Highlights Night of Undercard Action Saturday, March 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn

 
Welterweight World Title Unification Between 
Keith Thurman & Danny Garcia Headlines 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
BROOKLYN (February 9, 2017) – Exciting Polish contender Andrzej Fonfara (28-4, 16 KOs) will meet former world champion Chad Dawson (34-4, 19 KOs) in a 10-round light heavyweight attraction as part of an exciting night of non-televised undercard bouts onSaturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The March 4 event is headlined by the highly anticipated welterweight world title unification showdown between Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battling once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
“Fonfara vs. Dawson is the definition of a crossroads fight,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Former world champion Chad Dawson needs a signature win to reignite his career. Fonfara is coming off a shocking knockout loss. Fonfara should have the support of New York’s strong Polish community on March 4 at the Barclays Center. This is a significant light heavyweight fight and a terrific addition to a strong undercard.”
A popular Polish-fighter who has fought out of Chicago for most of his career, Fonfara will make his New York debut in front of the many Polish fans in Brooklyn. Now training in Oakland with Virgil Hunter, Fonfara will look to bounce back from a defeat to Joe Smith Jr. and work his way towards a second world title opportunity, after he dropped Adonis Stevenson in a decision loss for his world title in 2014. The 29-year-old has impressive recent victories including becoming the first fighter to stop Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., when he blasted out the former champion in nine rounds in 2015, and a follow-up victory over current light heavyweight titlist Nathan Cleverly that was a 2015 Fight of the Year candidate and saw the fighters break Compubox records in the division for number of punches landed (936) and thrown (2524) in a fight.
A former world champion at light heavyweight, Dawson returns to the ring looking to earn another world title shot. The 33-year-old owns victories over former world champions Bernard Hopkins, Antonio Tarver and Tomasz Adamek and is coming off of victories over Shujaa El Amin last year. The New Haven, Connecticut-native has fought professionally since 2001 and was unbeaten in his first 21 pro fights on his way to becoming a two-time world champion. His victory over Hopkins in 2012 made him a three-time champion and he will now work his way towards a chance to become a four-time world champion.
The two-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS broadcast will be just the second primetime boxing presentation on the CBS Television Network in nearly 40 years.  It is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and produced by SHOWTIME Sports® for CBS Television, both divisions of the CBS Corporation.
ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA
Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Erickson Lubin & Jorge Cota Clash in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator in Primetime Battle on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

 
Welterweight World Title Unification Between 
Keith Thurman & Danny Garcia Headlines Action on
America’s Most Watched Network
Saturday, March 4 From Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
BROOKLYN (February 8, 2017) — Undefeated rising star Erickson “Hammer” Lubin will take on once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in the co-feature bout of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing ChampionsSaturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, live on CBS from 9-11 p.m. ET/6-8 p.m. PT.
The broadcast, which will be just the second primetime boxing presentation on the CBS Television Network in nearly 40 years, is headlined by the highly anticipated welterweight world title unification between unbeaten stars Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia. The broadcast is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and produced by SHOWTIME Sports® for CBS Television, both divisions of the CBS Corporation.
Lubin and Cota will open the broadcast with an elimination bout for the WBC Super Welterweight World Championship held by undefeated champion Jermell Charlo, who is due a mandatory bout against No. 1 contender Charles Hatley.  The highly regarded Lubin (17-0, 12 KOs) will face his toughest opponent to date in Cota (25-1, 22 KOs) as both men vie for their first world title shot.
“I’m very excited that I have the opportunity to showcase my skills on CBS, especially on one of the most anticipated fight cards in boxing,” said Lubin. “I’m facing a tough, rugged fighter in Jorge Cota, who I know is coming to fight. He’s got a lot of heart and fans are going to witness a great battle between two warriors who are going to leave everything in the ring.  This will be my New York debut at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and I can’t wait to give the fans a great performance.”
“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for over a year and I am looking forward to becoming the mandatory for the championship on March 4,” said Cota. “Lubin has never faced a crafty fighter like me. Lubin has some experience, but I will be his first real challenge. Don’t be surprised if I knock him out.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Lubin vs. Cota fight is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.
“Erickson Lubin is one of the hottest prospects in boxing; many consider him to be the top young prospect in the game,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “On March 4, he will be tested in front of a national television audience against Jorge Cota in a title elimination bout. If ‘Hammer’ is successful in this tough test, he’ll graduate from prospect to serious championship contender.”
Since bursting onto the scene in 2013 at just 18-years-old, Lubin has impressed with his exciting style, power and ability to finish opponents with both hands. The 21-year-old fights out of Orlando and concluded a big 2016 by being named ESPN’s “Prospect of the Year.” Lubin has won nine times in the last two years against increasingly experienced opposition and most recently knocked out then once-beaten Juan Ubaldo Cabrera in the second round of their December matchup on SHOWTIME BOXING on FACEBOOK LIVE.
The 29-year-old Cota scored two knockdowns and won an entertaining 10-round battle with Cuban Olympic silver medalist Yudel Jhonson in his U.S. debut in 2015. Fighting out of Sinaloa, Mexico, Cota enters this bout having won nine bouts in a row, including six that ended inside of the distance. Sporting an 85 percent knockout rate, Cota scored knockout victories in his first 16 pro fights.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.