WHAT: SHOWTME Sports released the first installment of ALL ACCESS DAILY: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER, the first of four daily digital features that will chronicle fight week leading into this Saturday’s welterweight blockbuster between two of boxing’s biggest stars. WATCH:https://s.sho.com/2CnI2Rf
Manny Pacquiao will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring to defend his WBA Welterweight World Title against must-see attraction Adrien Broner this Saturday in the first marquee boxing event of 2019.
ALL ACCESS DAILY delivers the same intimate access and signature storytelling as the network’s Emmy Award-winning ALL ACCESS series. New installments of ALL ACCESS DAILY: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER will publish each day on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms leading into Saturday’s SHOWTIME PPV® from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Saturday, February 23 From The Armory in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Plus! Minnesota-Native Undefeated Welterweight Jamal James Clashes
with Janer Gonzalez in a Special Hometown Attraction
Tickets on Sale Now!
MINNEAPOLIS (January 16, 2019) – Former super middleweight world champion Anthony
Dirrell gets an opportunity
to rejoin the championship ranks when he battles top contender Avni Yildirim for the vacant WBC Super Middleweight
Championship in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX
Deportes Saturday, February 23 from The Armory in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with welterweight championship contender Jamal James fighting in his hometown for a third straight time against Janer González in a special 10-round attraction in the co-feature.
Tickets
for the event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on
sale now, and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/and through Ticketmaster.
“Fight
fans in Minneapolis and watching on FS1 and FOX Deportes are in for a treat
with this high stakes world title showdown between Anthony Dirrell and Avni
Yildirim,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “Dirrell
has been a champion and amongst the division’s elite for years, while Yildirim
always comes to fight and will be determined to make the most of this
opportunity. With the addition of local fan-favorite Jamal James in
welterweight action, this is shaping up to be a can’t miss night at The
Armory.”
“Anthony Dirrell took a long, difficult road to get to
the super middleweight championship and he has worked hard to get into position
to reclaim the title,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Avni
Yildirim has been one of the most active contenders in the division and he has
gained significant experience since his last opportunity to win a championship.
He will need all that and more to get past Dirrell. And it’s going to be a
special night watching Jamal James fighting for his hometown fans again.”
Dirrell
(32-1-1, 24 KOs) won the WBC Super Middleweight Championship with a unanimous
decision victory over Sakio Bika in 2014. It was the culmination of a long,
hard road for Dirrell of Flint, Michigan after he successfully battled
non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and was cleared to return to boxing after completing
chemotherapy in 2008. His reign as world champion was cut short when the
34-year-old Dirrell lost the title by majority decision to Badou Jack in 2015. He
has won five straight since that loss to climb back into contention for a
chance to become a two-time world champion.
“This is just like every other fight where we’re going
to work on a game plan and execute that game plan in the ring,” said Dirrell.
“I saw him fight Chris Eubank and it showed me some things. He’s a come
forward fighter. That’s the kind of guy I like to fight. He’s tailor-made for
me. I’m going to do what I do best and that’s fight. I’ve been keeping my mind,
body and soul together and staying focused to know what I have to do to become
two-time WBC champion.”
Yildirim
(21-1, 12 KOs) is one of the most active contenders in the super middleweight
division. The 27-year-old from Istanbul, Turkey has fought at least four times
a year since 2014. The fight against Dirrell will be only the second time that
he has fought in the United States after defeating Glen Johnson in Miami in
2015. Yildirim suffered the only loss of his professional career by stoppage
against Chris Eubank, Jr. in 2017. In his last fight he won a majority decision
against Lolenga Mock and he enters this fight on a five-fight winning streak.
“I’m
very thankful to everyone who helped me get this opportunity and I know that I
have all the tools to beat Anthony Dirrell,” said Yildirim. “Dirrell
is a good fighter, but I believe I bring more to the table than him. I’m coming
to win and bring the belt home to Turkey. I waited all my boxing life for this
stage and I am ready to give him a war.”
James
(24-1, 11 KOs) has become a local favorite and will be fighting in front of his
hometown crowd in Minneapolis for the third straight time. The 30-year-old
James has rolled off four consecutive victories since suffering the first loss
of his career – a unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugás
in 2016. In his last fight James stopped Mahonry Montes by knockout on August
24 on FS1. Gonzalez (19-1-1, 15 KOs) is a power-puncher from Cartagena,
Colombia and is coming off the first loss of his career via a unanimous
decision to Radzhad Butaev in 2017.
“I’m
hungry to make 2019 the year that I get that world title,” said James.
“I’m focused on my opponent, but in this fight I’m going to keep showing
off the skills and speed that makes me the next champion. I’m extremely
grateful to be fighting again at home and to keep bringing PBC to Minneapolis.
I’m going to be the next champion from here and the journey starts fresh for
2019 when I step into that ring on February 23.”
“I’m excited for this opportunity to fight Jamal James
in his backyard and leave all his hometown fans disappointed,” said
Gonzalez. “I’m training harder than ever to bounce back from my loss and
show everyone what I’ve learned. This victory is going to put me back on the
path to becoming word champion.”
# # #
Fans
can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or
Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on
desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including
Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.
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Former Four-Division World Champion Broner Takes on Welterweight Champion Manny Pacquiao Saturday, January 19 on SHOWTIME PPV®
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas
Click HERE for Photos from Nabeel Ahmad/Premier Boxing Champions
LAS VEGAS (January 15, 2019) – With fight week underway in Las Vegas, former
four-division world champion Adrien
“The Problem” Broner hosted
a media workout Monday before he battles Manny
Pacquiao for the World Boxing
Association Welterweight World Title Saturday, January 19 in the main event of
a SHOWTIME PPV® event
from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Tickets
for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and
TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now
and start at $100, not including
applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge
by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box
office.
Broner,
along with trainer Kevin
Cunningham, have been at Barry’s Boxing in Las Vegas finishing up training
camp after spending most of camp in West Palm Beach, Florida preparing to face
boxing’s only eight-division world champion in Pacquiao. Here is what they had
to say Monday at Barry’s Boxing:
ADRIEN BRONER
“Every
fighter is different, but I know if I touch him flush, I’ll put him out. It’s
no secret, he’s been to sleep before.
“I’m
in shape and ready to go. We had a tremendous training camp. I could have made
weight weeks ago. We’re prepared to go out and execute.
“I’ve
been here before, and even though I haven’t been in a fight of exactly this
magnitude, I’m just treating it like any other fight. He’s another opponent.
“A
lot of people are saying that Pacquiao’s age will be a factor, but I’m not
looking at it like that. You see guys like Floyd Mayweather who stay undefeated
at an older age. I’m just focused on being me. As long as I do what I have to
do, I will be victorious.
“We’re
ready for whatever this fight is going to end up being. It could definitely be
a war. I’ve always been an underdog. I came from the trenches and I’m bringing
that mentality into the ring.
“I
can take over boxing with a win over Pacquiao. There are a lot of great
fighters in this sport, but they just don’t bring what I bring to the table.
With a win like this, it would put me right where I was always meant to be.
“I’ve
always wanted to fight the big names like this and I knew that I just had to
keep working hard and the time would come.
“Once
that bell rings, I’ll make my adjustments and go ahead and get my victory. I
don’t have anything I want to go out and prove. It’s just about winning. That
will say everything.”
KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Broner’s Trainer
“Preparation
has been great. Camp has been tremendous. Adrien is ready to go and extremely
focused for this fight. He came into camp that way and it’s stayed that way.
“We
added some things this training camp, because we know he’s fighting a legendary
fighter. This is one that he has to have and he realizes it. I expect a
spectacular performance.
“I
think on Saturday night that Adrien is going to be that guy that everyone
expected him to be from day one. It will open a lot of eyes. I believe that we
put the work in. I can’t see Adrien coming out of there without a victory.
“The
key to victory is for Adrien to just be himself. He has to do what he does best
with no hesitation. He’s going to throw the right punches at the right time.
“Pacquiao
still throws combinations but they don’t come in as fast or as sharp as they
used to. He can throw as many punches as he wants to throw, but if they’re not
landing, it doesn’t mean anything.
“I
think Adrien is the quicker fighter. Quickness offsets speed, all day, every
day. It’s all about being quick enough to time the guy with your hand speed.
It’s different than just throwing a bunch of fast punches.”
# # #
ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BRONER
Pacquiao
vs. Broner is headlined by Senator
Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion,
ending his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight
World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction
Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, January 19 in the main event of
a SHOWTIME PPV® event
from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The PPV
begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature two-division world champion
Badou Jack battling unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA
Interim Light Heavyweight Title, former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking
on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship
and unbeaten WBA Interim Featherweight Champion Jhack Tepora defending against
former world champion Hugo Ruiz.
Undefeated Brandon Figueroa Defeats Moises Flores in Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator; Rising Star Joey Spencer Continues Knockout Streak
Premier Boxing Champions Prelims Showcase Early Knockout Victories by Guillermo Rigondeaux, Ahmed Elbiali and Lindolfo Delgado
Click HERE for PhotosPhoto Credit: Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions
Click HERE for PhotosPhoto Credit: Luis Mejia/TGB Promotions
LOS ANGELES (January 13) – The challenger proved to be the aggressor as Caleb Plant became the IBF Super Middleweight World Champion, defeating Jose Uzcategui in the main event of the first Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes event of 2019, which took place at the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles. Plant dominated the whole fight as he maintained a fast and aggressive pace from the opening bell.
With
scores of 116-110 twice and 115-111 in favor of Plant, the freshly crowned
champion, Plant fell to his knees overcome with emotion when he heard “and the
new!”.
“I’ve
worked my whole entire life for this,” said Plant. “I buried my daughter in the
process of trying to get this belt. I promised I would bring her this title and
that is what I am going to do.”
The
super middleweight barnburner started out strong with both combatants throwing
exchanges, but Plant did everything in his power to never back down. Uzcategui
threw hard right hands to start the second round, but Plant quickly turned the
round in his favor as he knocked Uzcategui to the canvas with a flurry of
punches, only the third time Uzcategui had been knocked down in his career. A
small cut opened under the left eye of Uzcategui to start the third, but he
fought through it and fended off Plant’s aggression. One minute into the fourth
round, a cut opened up under Plant’s right eye causing blood to stream. That
did not stop the Nashville native as threw a hard left hook that once again
sent Uzcategui to the canvas.
As
the fight progressed, the Venezuelan was unable to utilize his distance, thus
allowing Plant to fight on the inside. Despite good exchanges in the seventh
and eighth, it became increasingly clear that Uzcategui would need a knockout
to hold onto his belt. Uzcategui flipped a switch in the championship rounds
and came forward, throwing hard blows to the body and head of Plant. But it was
too little too late for Uzcategui as Plant’s ring generalship controlled the
pace of the fight, ultimately ending in a unanimous decision.
“I
knew I caught him clean [when I knocked down Uzcategui], but I knew he wasn’t
all the way out so I took my time,” continued Plant. “I stayed relaxed. I stuck
to the game plan and got it done just like I said I would.
“This
is overwhelming. I am a kid who came from nothing. I believed in myself and now
I’ve been crowned king. Right now, I am not thinking ahead. I just want to
embrace this moment and soak it in.”
“I
did feel that I had the advantage heading into the fight,” said Uzcategui. “I
went down because I was off balance, but I wasn’t hurt. He started to get tired
around the sixth round, which was the plan. Caleb knew how to clench and hold.
He was smart. He knew how to stay away from the punches.
“I
expected more movement and more boxing out of him,” continued Uzcategui. “I
would love the rematch. I think everyone saw a great fight tonight. I gave him
the chance at the title and I would hope he would give me the chance to win it
back.”
Unbeaten
Brandon Figueroa (18-0, 13 KOs) of Weslaco, Texas faced former world title
challenger Moises Flores (25-2, 17 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mex. in a WBA Super
Bantamweight title eliminator. Figueroa wasted no time attacking Flores in
round one as he came forward and threw several hard lefts followed by a body
shot that seemed to surprise Flores. With 30 seconds left in the round,
Figueroa went for the body and worked Flores on the inside. While Flores seemed
to find his footing at the start of round three, Figueroa unleashed a flurry of
punches that sent Flores to the canvas once and then a second time that ended
the fight at 1:35 of the third round.
“Break
him down and finish him,” said Figueroa “This is exactly how I expected it to
go. I knew that he wasn’t going to handle those body shots. My message to
Daniel Roman is that I am going to go home and prepare.
“I
used that body work,” continued Figueroa. “I am really strong. I came in at 110
percent and did my job. I could have done better. I am really hard on myself. I
know there are things I can continue to work on and will do that as soon as I
get home. I am most definitely ready for a title shot.”
Fast-rising
undefeated star and PBC Prospect of 2018 Joey Spencer (6-0, 6 KOs) of Linden,
Mich., continued his impressive knockout streak as he defeated Brandon Harder
(2-2, 1 KO) of Southaven, Miss., in a super welterweight contest that saw
Spencer knocking down Harder three times in less than two rounds. The
18-year-old Spencer, who fought 100 fights as an amateur, established his jab
early and landed at will. He threw and landed a straight right at the end of
round one that sent Harder to his knees. Forty-five seconds into round two,
Spencer sent Harder to the canvas again followed by a swarm of punches that
ended the fight at 1:27 of the round.
“Fans
are going to see that I give it my all when I get in the ring and I’m going to
put on a show,” said Spencer. “You’re going to get more and more tests in my
career and I believe I will rise to the level of my competition. Sometimes
you’re in there with an awkward guy, he proves to be a test. I’ll move to six
rounds for my next fight. I want to fight four times this year and I’m looking
forward to it.”
The
Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS1 featured three bouts that all ended in
exciting knockout victories, kicking off a great night of fights.
The
Prelim telecast featured the long-awaited ring return of Guillermo Rigondeux
(18-1, 12 KOs) who hadn’t fought since December 2017. The Cuban fan-favorite
faced Giovanni Delgado of Tacubaya, Mex. (16-9, 9 KOs) and knocked him out in
the last second of round one with an overhand left. Delgado could not be saved
by the 10 count and the fight was called in favor of Rigondeux.
“This
is my division. This is my time,” said Rigondeaux. “I am the king of 122
pounds. I felt 100 percent. Delgado is a good fighter. I take my hat off to him
and his team. I came prepared and I am ready to face people that are
undefeated. Whoever has a belt, I am taking it. You can expect me back in less
than two months.”
“I
fought my idol tonight,” said Delgado. “I knew he hit hard, but I didn’t know
he hit that hard. I have been cleared by the doctor and am fine. Just a little
bit in shock.”
A
scheduled eight-round light heavyweight bout featuring Egypt’s Ahmed Elbiali
(18-1, 15 KOs) against 16-year veteran Allan Green (33-6, 22 KOs) of Tulsa, OK
saw Elbiali knock Green down in every round. However, Green did showcase his
experience choosing to go toe-to-toe despite Elbiali’s aggression. Ultimately,
it was a right uppercut followed by an overhand right that sent Green to the
canvas as Elbiali scored a knockout at 1:16 of round three.
“I
was easier than I thought it was going to be,” said Elbiali. “Losing to Pascal
the way I did, it messes with you mentally. I was trying to stay on my A-game.
Stay focused and thankfully it showed. My game plan clicked really well. I have
been sparring with Caleb (Plant) and other great guys. That keeps you sharp and
alert. I would love to win a world title and be the first Egyptian win a world
championship.”
In
the opening bout of the Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS1, Mexican
Olympian Lindolfo Delgado (8-0, 8 KOs) of Linares, Mex. continued his
professional knockout streak as he defeated Sergio Lopez (22-13-1, 15 KOs) of
West Covina, CA via knockout at 2:48 of the third round. Delgado has yet to
fight 30 rounds in his eight fights as a professional. He was clearly the
aggressor throughout the fight and landed almost 50 percent of his power
punches.
All
PBC on FOX Sports events and programming is streamed live on the FOX
Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX, FS1 or FOX
Deportes feeds. In addition, FOX Sports Digital will have a dedicated
FOXSports.com and FOX Sports App page for PBC coverage, in addition to
dedicated YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels.
FOX
Sports is the umbrella entity representing 21st Century FOX’s wide array of
multi-platform US-based sports assets. Built with brands capable of reaching
more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, FOX Sports includes
ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile
programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses
and several licensing partnerships. FOX Sports includes the sports television
arm of the FOX Broadcasting Company; FS1, FS2; FOX Sports Regional Networks, their
affiliated regional web sites and national programming; FOX Soccer Plus; FOX
Deportes and FOX College Sports. In addition, FOX Sports also encompasses FOX
Sports Digital, including FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports app. Also included
in the Group are FOX’s interests in joint-venture businesses Big Ten Network
and BTN 2Go, as well as a licensing agreement that established the FOX Sports
Radio Network.
About Premier Boxing Champions
The
Premier Boxing Champions series was created and is produced by Haymon Sports,
LLC. It features the most accomplished and decorated array of international
professional boxing talent across the most popular weight divisions.
Former Two-Division World Champion Jack Takes On Unbeaten Marcus Browne for WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV® Event From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
Click HERE for Photos from Leo Wilson/Premier Boxing Champions &
Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/Mayweather Promotions
LAS VEGAS (January 10, 2019) – Former
two-division world champion Badou
Jack hosted a media workout at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas Thursday
as he prepares to take on unbeaten
top contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight
Title Saturday, January 19 on the
Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena
in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Tickets
for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and
TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now
and start at $100, not including
applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge
by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box
office.
A
resident of Las Vegas, Jack is preparing to fight in his adopted home city for
the 11thtime as a pro on January 19. He will be making his third
appearance on SHOWTIME PPV, having won a light heavyweight crown against Nathan
Cleverly in August 2017 on the Mayweather vs. McGregor event.
Here is
what Jack, his trainer Lou Del Valle and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard
Ellerbe had to say Thursday:
BADOU JACK
“I
feel young and like I’m still improving. I take care of my body every day. Age
won’t be a problem for me, it’ll be an advantage.
“I’m
a confident fighter. I don’t need to talk and brag about everything. I’m just
comfortable; inside and outside of the ring.
“I’m
battle-tested. I’ve been in there in tough fights. He hasn’t been tested like
that, so we’ll have to see what he’s capable of when the pressure is on.
“Marcus
Browne is an athletic and skilled fighter. But it’s a little different to fight
on the prospect and contender level versus on this world class level.
“One
of my biggest strengths in the ring is my ability to adjust. My trainer, Lou
Del Valle, has really helped in that regard. He’s been in there as a world
champion like me on the big stage. He knows so much about boxing.
“This
is nothing new to me. I’ve been on a lot of big cards, so this is a regular day
on the job. It’s exciting as always and I can’t wait to put on a good show.
“I
feel like it’s my duty to give back outside of the ring. With this platform
that I have, why wouldn’t I? We should use this platform for something deeper
than boxing.”
On the
Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV main event:
“It’s
a really good fight. Pacquiao looked pretty good in his last fight, but Broner
is very talented. Anything can happen in boxing, especially because Broner has
a good chin and can fight. He just has to stay focused.”
LOU DEL VALLE, Jack’s Trainer
“Camp
has been amazing. Every camp has just been better and better. He has improved
on his weaknesses each time we work together. It’s incredible that a guy who’s
35-years-old can keep performing the way he is and still be getting better.
“We
know that we have to be careful because Marcus is a good fighter. Everyone we
fight at this level is quality. We’re only fighting champions and guys with the
top pedigree. The better the fighter, the better we get.
“I
don’t think that Marcus Browne wants to go the distance with Badou Jack. If you
notice in previous fights, guys who fight Badou are not the same after. He
takes a lot out of them and I think it’s going to happen again. Marcus is going
to go for the early knockout, but we’re ready.
“The
experience gap is a big difference. I had only fought one 10-rounder when I
first fought for the title, but I still thought that I could beat him. The
experience that Virgil Hill had over me was really difficult to overcome and I
think you’ll see something similar play out in this fight.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“I
think that this is going to be a very competitive fight. You have two guys in
this fight that are very hungry. There are a lot of options in the light
heavyweight division, and it’s all about timing. This fight gives both guys a
chance to prove that they want to be the best and make a great statement.
“This
fight has a very good chance of stealing the show. I like the fact that Marcus
is very confident. If you’re in a big fight, you have to be. Badou is
even-keeled, and he comes with his workman-like approach to every fight.
“Experience
is everything in big fights. It’s a big deal when you’re under those lights.
Going the distance with top guys, and knowing how to break guys down, it all
plays a big role in fights like this.”
# # #
ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BRONER
Pacquiao
vs. Broner is headlined by Senator
Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao,boxing’s only eight-division world champion,
ending his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight
World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction
Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, January 19 in the main event of
a SHOWTIME PPV® event
from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The PPV
begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature two-division world champion
Badou Jack battling unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA
Interim Light Heavyweight Title, former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking
on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship
and unbeaten WBA Interim Featherweight Champion Jhack Tepora defending against
former world champion Hugo Ruiz.
LOS ANGELES (January
10, 2019) – – Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s
only eight-division world champion, and former four-division world champion Adrien
“The Problem” Broner hosted media days in Los Angeles
Wednesday as they near their SHOWTIME PPV® clash taking place Saturday,
January 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted
by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with
About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not
including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through
AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts
International box office.
Pacquiao will end his two-year hiatus from
a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing
Association Welterweight World Title against Broner. Along with co-trainer Buboy
Fernandez and longtime trainer Freddie Roach, Pacquiao
spoke to media and worked out for the cameras at Wild Card Boxing Club.
Broner traveled to Los Angeles from his
current training camp in Las Vegas to talk to media along with his trainer Kevin
Cunningham at Ten Goose Boxing Gym, after spending most of training in
West Palm Beach, Florida.
Here is what the media day participants
had to say from the split-site media day Wednesday:
MANNY PACQUIAO
“My journey in this sport is still
continuing. I’ve accomplished everything I’ve wanted to, but I also want to
continue to keep my name at the top. Even at 40-years-old, I can still show the
best of Manny Pacquiao. I’m going to give the fans the speed and power that
they’re used to seeing.
“I’m sure that Broner is focused on
this fight. They are working hard and I expect him to be in great condition. We
know how his trainer pushes him and has been pushing him in their training
camp.
“I’m not taking this fight lightly. I
don’t listen to any gossip about Adrien Broner, I just focus on my training. I
want to be in 100 percent condition and ready for the fight on January 19.
“Adrien Broner is fast with his hands
and he’s overall a good boxer. This is a big challenge that I’m excited for.
“Me, Freddie and Buboy know each
other well and we have a great coaching staff right now. I’m happy with how
everything has gone in training for this fight.
“Rest and recovery is definitely a
key part of training. Sometimes when I work hard in the gym, my body can’t
fully recover by the next day, so I’ve had to work more rest into the schedule.
But as soon as I can, I’m back in the gym working hard.
“On January 19 I’m going to do my
best. I can’t say a prediction, but I’m going to do the same thing I did for my
last fight. My trainers know how hard I’ve worked in this camp for this win.
“My plan is to take it one fight at a
time. I can’t talk about future fights until I do what I have to on January 19.
You can ask me again after this one.
“This fight means a lot. It’s my
first fight at the age of 40 so I’m excited to give my best and show the world
what I can still do. Boxing is my passion, and public service is my mission. I
love to bring honor to my country.”
ADRIEN BRONER
“Growing up and seeing Pacquiao
fight, of course I always wanted to fight him. I’m a competitor.
One day I want to be the best, and to be the best you have to beat the
best. It starts here.
“This is my first PPV but I was
always supposed to be here. God doesn’t make mistakes. After this
victory, I will be taking over the sport of boxing. This is just the
beginning.
“His last fight he did stop
Matthysse, so I’m pretty sure he still has power. But I’m going to be
ready, I’m going to be ready for whatever he brings to the table. We’re
in shape to get it done, I can tell you that.
“This win makes me an icon.
It makes me what I always wanted to be, and what everybody always thought I
would be. A win here and I’m a legend overnight.
“It’s going to be a hell of a
fight. I just can’t wait till round one. Everybody I fight says
they are going to knock me out. That should be the objective of every
fighter, but that’s not going to happen.
“The sky is the limit for me, but
in boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. You can’t overlook
anybody in this sport. My main focus is Manny Pacquiao and I will be ready.
“A win would mean a lot. It
turns a new page in my book. It’s another beginning. I’m already a
star in boxing, but a win here and I’m taking over the sport. This is
just the beginning.
“It’s not a mystery – he’s been
knocked out before. Not once, not twice, but three times. And he’s
been put down a lot, too. There are many blueprints to beat Manny.
I think I have all the tools to beat him. I will show all the tools in my
arsenal and show all the weaknesses in his.”
BUBOY FERNANDEZ, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer
“I think it’s going to be a knockout.
If Broner opens the door, we’re going to get it early. I’ve seen from previous
fights that he’s a slow starter. So we need to get inside and go first.
“We know that Broner is a good
counter-puncher with a strong right uppercut. Broner is a real fighter and a
smart fighter in the ring.
“I’m happy that Manny has shown that
he moves as well as ever, even at 40-years-old. He’s learning even more now. I
told the team that I think he’s already prepared for this fight.
“We just want him to maintain this
shape and energy level. Manny is 110 percent ready. I don’t think there’s a
fighter who can keep up with what Manny brings.”
FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer
“I can’t wait for this fight. Camp
has been great and he’s been training very well. Everything is back to normal
and he’s looked amazing.
“Manny and I have been together 15
years, so I had no reason to ever be mad at Manny. Everything has worked out
really well and we’re working together as a team right now.
“I’m working on the game plan for
how to fight Broner. He’s a counterpuncher who doesn’t like to come forward too
much. Manny will have to be the aggressor in this fight and use his feints to
trap this guy into making it more of a fight.
“I feel we’re going to see an
aggressive Manny Pacquiao. There’s a rumor that Manny has been telling people
he’s looking for a knockout. I love that attitude. I think his knockout of
Lucas Matthysse was so satisfying and he saw that that’s what the fans really
want. I think that’s going to carry over to this fight.
“Pacquiao and I have a deal. Once
his work ethic drops, I’m going to tell him and he’s agreed he’ll retire. His
work ethic is unbelievable right now. He hasn’t slowed down at all. He hit me
with a shot in the chest two or three days ago, and I’ve never been hit harder
in my life.”
KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Broner’s Trainer
“Everything went tremendous in
Florida. I’ve never seen Adrien this focused and I’ve been around him for
years. He came to camp with a look on his face like this is the one he’s got to
have. He prepared for nine hard weeks and we didn’t miss a beat. Everting was
on point.
“He’s ready. He’s focused. We had
tremendous sparring. Everything went great. We didn’t have any hiccups, any
injuries or setbacks. He’s ready to go and he’s going to look spectacular on
January 19.
“Manny fights with a high punch
volume and he’s aggressive with it. But sometimes he’s reckless with it. Adrien
is a sharp counter-puncher. He gets off first and last. If Adrien comes to the
ring mentally sharp like I know he will, because physically he’s as sharp as
ever, as long as his mind is on point, I think it’s going to be a long night
for Manny and it’s the wrong fight for Manny.
“There’s a lot there to exploit. I
know Manny throws a lot of punches and Adrien doesn’t throw a lot, but this
fight is not about matching Manny’s punch count. This fight is about throwing
the right shots at the right time.
“There’s a big difference in Adrien
from the last camp. He didn’t take Jessie Vargas as seriously as he’s taking
this legendary eight-time world champion in Manny Pacquiao. There were some
things that went on that showed he wasn’t as focused as he is for a fight like
this. He’s just been on point. He’s not screwing around. He’s not looking for
days off to go have a good time. He’s just locked in on Manny Pacquiao.”
IBF Super Middleweight Champion Jose Uzcategui Defends His Title Against Undefeated Caleb Plant in the Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Event
LOS
ANGELES (January 7, 2019) – Exciting
contender Fernando Garcia will take on Isao G.
Carranza in an eight-round super bantamweight clash as part of a
stacked undercard on Sunday, January 13 at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in
Los Angeles and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The
30-year-old Garcia (10-0, 5 KOs) has moved up the ladder in the division with
three wins in 2018 and wants to make a statement against Mexico’s Carranza
(15-13-1, 9 KOs). Garcia was born in Mexico but now lives and trains in Dallas,
Texas.
Tickets
for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions,
start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
Also
in action are two unbeaten prospects as Indio, California’s Ruben
Rodriguez(3-0, 1 KO) takes on Daniel Perales (10-14-2, 5
KOs) in a six-round super lightweight contest, while featherweight Victor
Slvansky (7-0, 4 KOs) clashes with Mexico’s Angel Monrreal (10-11-1,
3 KOs).
Plus,
Philippines’ Michael A. Plania (17-1, 10 KOs) will meet
Mexico’s Ramiro Robles (15-8-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round super
bantamweight match. Rounding out the slate of non-televised fights is Desoto,
Texas-welterweight Amon Rashidi battling Evincii Dixon in
a four-round match.
The
jam-packed undercard is part of a Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX
Deportes show that features IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose
Uzcategui taking on unbeaten Caleb Plant in the main event. Coverage begins at
8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa
take on Moises Flores and sensational prospect Joey Spencer entering the ring.
The
undercard will also see PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30
p.m. PT) featuring the return of former world champion and pound-for-pound
contender Guillermo Rigondeaux against Giovanni Delgado and
hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado in an
eight-round super lightweight fight.
Also
light heavyweight power-puncher Ahmed Elbiali battles Oklahoma’s Allan
Green on the Prelims telecast, if time allows. Plus, Ryan
“Cowboy” Karl and Kevin Watts meet in an
eight-round rematch after Watts stopped Karl in round five of their exciting
April bout that serves as an FS1 TV swing bout
Trio of Unbeaten Prospects Also in Action as George Kambosos, Jr., Desmond Jarmon & Destyne Butler All Enter the Ring
LAS VEGAS (January 7, 2019) – Welterweight Jayar Inson and flyweight Genisis Libranza make their U.S. debuts on the big stage as part of the non-televised undercard headlined their fellow Filipino countryman Manny Pacquiao on Saturday, January 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Inson (18-1, 12 KOs) will battle in an
eight-round welterweight match, while Libranza (17-1, 10 KOs) takes on
Nicaragua’s Carlos Buitrago (30-4-1, 17 KOs) in an eight-round
flyweight match as the two fighters from Davao City, Philippines look to
continue their respective win streaks.
In the main event, Pacquiao, boxing’s only
eight-division world champion, will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing
ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing Association
Welterweight World Title against former four-division world champion and
must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner on SHOWTIME PPV®.
Three unbeaten prospects will also do
battle in non-televised action as Australia’s George Kambosos, Jr.
(15-0, 9 KOs) takes on Rolando Chinea (15-2-1, 6 KOs) in an
eight-round lightweight match, Cincinnati’s Desmond Jarmon (7-0,
4 KOs) clashes with St. Louis-native Canton Miller (3-1-1, 1
KOs) in a six-round super featherweight bout and Chicago’s Destyne
Butler (4-0, 3 KOs) fights in a four-round welterweight match.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted
by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with
About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not
including applicable service charges, and can be purchased on line through
AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts
International box office.
The pay-per-view undercard will see
two-division world champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated contender
Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title and former world
champion Rau’shee Warren taking on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC
Bantamweight World Championship in a rematch of their 2012 Olympic matchup that
was edged by Oubaali. In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast,
unbeaten Jhack Tepora will take on former world champion Hugo Ruiz in a
12-round featherweight clash.
Santa Cruz Defends Featherweight World Title Against Exciting
Challenger Flores Saturday, February 16 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX
& FOX Deportes Main Event Live from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live
in Los Angeles
Hard-Hitting Molina Jr. Takes on Undefeated Former World Champion
Omar Figueroa on Telecast Beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
Click HERE for Photos from Luis Mejia/TGB
Promotions
LOS ANGELES (January 3, 2019) – Featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz and exciting challenger Miguel Flores went face-to-face Thursday at a press conference in Los Angeles ahead of their world title showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.
Also
in attendance at Thursday’s press conference was hard-hitting John Molina Jr., who faces
unbeaten former champion Omar
Figueroa in a 12-round junior
welterweight clash as part of televised coverage beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m.
PT.
Tickets
for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports are on
sale now, and can be purchased at AXS.com.
Here
is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Conga
Room at L.A. Live:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“He
may think I’m underestimating him, but I’ve never underestimated any fighter
I’ve faced. Media and fans may think differently, but I don’t think I’m
superior to anyone else, I just do my work.
“I
get all of my confidence from my training. I learn everything in the gym. I
work hard and train like I’m the challenger. I want to go and give the fans a
great fight and continue to grow my name.
“When
I retire I want to be known as a great Mexican fighter, so I’ve trained very
hard with my dad. Even though he’s sick, he still is in the gym pushing me and
telling me what to do. It’s a huge motivation to see him there supporting me. I
know that if he sees me pushing myself, it’s going to motivate him too.
“When
I say that I want to unify the featherweight division, I’m not looking past
Miguel Flores. I have to be positive and always look toward the future. I’m not
looking back. I’m just training hard to get that win and become the best at
126-pounds. First that means beating Miguel Flores.
“This
is going to be a great fight. Miguel Flores is a tough fighter who throws a lot
of punches and comes forward. He’s got a big right hand and he works the body
well. He’s a fighter who leaves everything in the ring.
“I
want to unify against any of the champions. I want any of the champions in 2019
and I want to become the featherweight king.”
MIGUEL FLORES
“It’s
been a long road for me. I’m going to put on a good show on February 16. Leo
and his father are professionals and they’ll work hard in the gym, but I have a
feeling they’re overlooking me.
“I
know all the hard work I’ve put in the gym and I know that I deserve this
opportunity and I’m going to prove it by making the most of it.
“This
is a great night of fights and I’m thankful to everyone that made it possible.
My trainer, Aaron Navarro, has been with me and is really a father figure for
me. The support from back home has been amazing.
“I’m
excited to be starting off the year with this great opportunity. I’m going to
give the writers an easy task, because on February 16 I’m going to give them
the Upset of the Year and the Fight of the Year on the same night.
“People
are going to be in for a treat on February 16. We have two Mexican fighters
going toe-to-toe. You’re going to want to show up to see this one.”
JOHN MOLINA JR.
“February
16, there is going to be a war. It’s a great night of fighting. This is a fight
that I specifically asked for. I believe stylistically it’s going to be
all-action.
“I
saw Figueroa say that he’s not going to see me get out of the fourth round.
Well he’s not going to see that, because he’s going to be asleep.
“Talk
is cheap, like I always say. I could talk until I’m blue in the face about how
I’m going to hurt this kid. But it’ll sound naïve until I show you on February
16.
“I
like Figueroa’s confidence. It’s going to make for a great fight. I don’t ever
want to face a guy who’s going to come to lose. I know he’s coming to win. I’m
glad to share the ring with great fighters like Leo, Miguel and Omar for this
special night.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“Premier
Boxing Champions have made a major commitment to bringing some of the best and
biggest fights to Southern California.
“L.A.
has always been regarded as one of the best fight cities in the world and home
to some of the greatest fights in boxing. We believe that Los Angeles,
including right here downtown, can become a major hub for the sport of boxing.
“Southern
California has long been a hotbed of slugfests between great Mexican-American
fighters, and with Leo Santa Cruz and Miguel Flores, plus Omar Figueroa vs.
John Molina Jr., we have the makings of another all-out war on February 16.
This is going to be a great night.”
RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports
“Los
Angeles is once again the fight capital of the world. There are some great
matchups coming here for the passionate Southern California fight fans.
“The
Microsoft Theatre is a fantastic venue for boxing and it hosts signature events
throughout the year, and on February 16 it will host a great doubleheader. They
say that styles make fights, and I don’t think there are better matchups than
these two fights.
“These
fighters are warriors. No one on this card is ever in a boring fight. It’s like
throwing oil in the fire. This is going to be a night you don’t want to miss
and a great crowd watching these fights.”
# # #
Fans
can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or
Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on
desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected
devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.
Light Heavyweight Power-Puncher Faces Oklahoma’s Allan Green Sunday, January 13 from Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
Click HERE for Photos from Team Elbiali/Premier Boxing Champions
LAS VEGAS (January 4, 2019) – Having recently moved from Miami to Las Vegas, hard-hitting light heavyweight Ahmed Elbiali shared his thoughts on training camp as he prepares to face Oklahoma’s Allan Green Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles. The fight will be featured on the Premier Boxing Champions Prelims live on FS1 and FOX Deportes telecast that begins at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT, if time allows.
Prelims precede a Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes show that features IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui taking on unbeaten Caleb Plant in the main event. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa take on Moises Flores and sensational prospect Joey Spencer entering the ring.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Here is what Elbiali had to say from training camp at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas:On training with new coach Chris Ben-Tchavtchavadze:“Chris is a great coach and he’s teaching me a lot. I’m learning how to parry punches and my defense is improving. On offense, I’m using my jab more to set up combinations. With Chris in my corner, I feel I have someone who can help me make the proper adjustments in a fight.”
On facing veteran Allan Green:
“I know I’m up against a fighter in Allan Green who’s been in the ring and went the distance with some very good fighters. He has a lot of experience, so I must fight wisely to be victorious. I’m going into this fight with a do or die mindset and I’m going to leave everything in the ring.”
On making the move from Miami to Las Vegas:
“It’s been a tremendous blessing since I moved here a few months ago from Miami. The quality of sparring I’m getting is just incredible. I’m getting better every day just from sparring top level guys. In Miami, there just isn’t the quality of guys to spar on a regular basis. The move has been great.”
On making his return to the ring:
“I only fought once last year so I’m hoping to get back on track fighting regularly in 2019. I think with a few more fights I’ll be ready to challenge anyone in my division. I just need to stay active.”
Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.
