James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr will clash at London’s O2 on 23 February in the first major UK event of the new deal between ITV and Haymon Sports’ Premier Boxing Champions, it has been announced.
The Super Middleweight match, to be screened exclusively live on ITV Box Office, will take place against a backdrop of hostility between two fighters who have long made no secret of their mutual dislike and are relishing the prospect of settling their differences in the ring.
James DeGale has already fired off an opening shot in the direction of his opponent.
He said: “Really excited and looking forward to being back home to a fight of this magnitude. “I believe Eubank doesn’t have the pedigree, the size and skill to beat me. “Eubank is a decent fighter but every time he has stepped up he has been found out. He has called my name for a long time so now I’ve finally got my chance to zip his lips.”
Eubank Jr responded in kind, saying: “DeGale is going to get the schooling of his career. A good old-fashioned hiding.”
Poxon Sport is the promoter of DeGale v Eubank Jr, as the exclusive promoter of all UK PBC events on ITV.
The fighters faced off at the Hotel Café Royal, in London on Thursday, January 3rd. Live streaming of the press conference was hosted by ITV’s Gabriel Clarke on the ITV Box Office Facebook page and Youtube channel.
Full details of the undercard and how to access this ITV Box Office PPV event across all platforms will be announced and made available in due course. For updated and further information, please go to www.itvboxoffice.com Tickets for the fight go on sale on Friday 4 January at midday to O2 members and to the wider public at midday on Monday 7 January. Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality from www.sportandmusic.co.uk.
News of the DeGale v Eubank Jr showdown follows the announcement at the end of December of two major world title fights to be shown free to air on ITV4 as part of the broad scope of the ITV and PBC deal.
On Sunday, January 13, Jose Uzcategui defends his IBF Super Middleweight World Championship against unbeaten top challenger Caleb Plant. Coverage will come live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.
The following weekend, on 19 January, ITV4’s coverage will come live from Las Vegas where Manny Pacquiao will defend his WBA world welterweight title against Adrien Broner. The exclusive ITV4 coverage will also include the much-anticipated showdown between Badou Jack and Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight title.
Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK. The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK.
The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivaled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US.
PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States. The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office.
This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open.
Three-Part ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER Premieres Friday, January 4 on SHOWTIME®
NEW YORK – December 28, 2018 – SHOWTIME Sports will chronicle the buildup to the welterweight world championship between Senator Manny Pacquiao and must-see attraction Adrien Broner with a new installment of the Emmy Award-winning series ALLACCESS. The multi-part series premieres Friday, January 4 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and airs on consecutive Fridays leading into the January 19 SHOWTIME PPV® from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONERwill peel back the curtain as Pacquiao transitions from the final days of Senate in his native Philippines to training camp in Los Angeles for his first fight in America in more than two years. The immersive series will document Broner, one of boxing’s most colorful personalities, as the four-division champion prepares for a chance to become a two-time titlist in boxing’s glamour division.
Episode two of ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER will premiere Friday, January 11 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT. ALL ACCESS EPILOGUE, which spotlights the immediate buildup to fight night and the solemn aftermath of world championship prizefighting, will premiere on Saturday, January 26.
The acclaimed SHOWTIME Sports original series will be accompanied by digital features released throughout fight week on the networks’ social media channels. ALL ACCESS DAILY will deliver the same intimate access and signature storytelling as the intensity builds toward fight night. New installments of the digital series will be available each day beginning Wednesday, January 16 on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page.
Filming for the series is underway as Pacquiao recently begun phase two of his camp in Los Angeles under the legendary Freddie Roach. Cincinnati’s Broner, the second-youngest four-division champion in history, is in the midst of training camp in West Palm Beach, Fla., under the tutelage of Kevin Cunningham.
Tony Harrison Shocks Jermell Charlo to Win WBC Super Welterweight Championship by Unanimous Decision
Dominic Breazeale Scores Sensational Ninth-Round Knockout Over Carlos Negron In Heavyweight Duel
Click HERE for Photos from Leo Wilson/Premier Boxing Champions
Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions
BROOKLYN (December 23, 2018) – WBC Interim Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo(28-0, 21 KOs) won a hard-fought unanimous decision over Matt Korobov (28-2, 13 KOs) to defend his title in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday night from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
“I had fun in there with a tough opponent like that,” said Charlo. “I got the win and that’s the main thing. I still feel I’m the best in the world. I just need to prove it to the rest of the world.”
The southpaw Korobov had success early countering Charlo with straight left hands that landed cleanly, even if they didn’t deter Charlo from coming forward. Korobov was successful countering to the body as well and ended the fight with a 119 to 114 advantage in power punches landed according to CompuBox.
Charlo stayed consistent with his jab however through the early rounds and began to break through later as Korobov’s right eye appeared to close during the middle rounds. Charlo out-jabbed Korobov by a 56 to 9 advantage in jabs landed, and also threw nearly 200 more punches throughout the fight per CompuBox.
In round 12 Charlo closed the show and nearly stopped Korobov, who used his experience to hold and move enough to survive the round. Charlo landed a clean left hook to the head early in the round that put Korobov on shaky legs, and he followed up with several strong punches that forced Korobov to try to survive.
“I used everything that happened tonight as motivation in the 12th round,” said Charlo. “I haven’t been that far in a fight in a couple of years. It felt good to be in there, get hit and bang with someone. He was an experienced guy who will make me better.”
After 12-rounds of action, Charlo won the unanimous decision by scores of 119-108 and 116-112, even after watching his twin brother lose a tough decision minutes prior to his fight starting. “I felt like Jermell made his fight harder than it was,” said Charlo. “I had a really tough opponent, but he wasn’t better than me. There was a lot on my mind in the ring.”
Korobov thought he had done enough to win the fight after he stepped in as a replacement opponent one week prior to fight night. “I thought that I won the fight,” said Korobov. “It was definitely a fight that could have gone either way, but I believe the people know that I won. I’m the most avoided fighter in boxing and I showed why tonight. I hope this performance will get me another title fight.”
In a back-and-forth title showdown, Detroit’s Tony Harrison (28-2, 21 KOs) pulled off the upset to win a narrow unanimous decision over Jermell Charlo (31-1, 15 KOs) and capture the WBC Super Welterweight Championship.
“I dictated the pace,” said Harrison. “That’s what champions do. He wound up for big shots and I kept my defense tight. All we worked on was defense. I kept my composure and I did what champions do.”
Charlo expressed his disagreement with the judges’ decision after the fight. “They took that fight from me,” said Charlo. “I was pressing the action. He didn’t win that fight.”
Harrison was effective with his jab as he attempted to keep the power-punching Charlo at bay. Harrison landed his biggest punch of the fight in round five when a straight left appeared to temporarily stun Charlo. Charlo was able to land several effective power punches throughout the 12 rounds, including an overhand right late in round five that wobbled Harrison.
Round nine saw both men land significant shots, which lead to an exchange where Charlo urged Harrison to keep coming forward. “I got back to my corner after every round and they told me to just keep doing what you’re doing,” said Harrison, “You’re dictating the pace they said. That’s what champions do. Champions don’t just try to knock people out. That’s all he wanted to do. I dictated it. I used my jab. I dictated the fight. That’s what champions do.”
Harrison was caught off balance in round 11 and again in round 12 by Charlo power punches, but was able to use his movement and hold at key times to survive both rounds. After 12 rounds of action the judges preferred Harrison’s jab, movement and counters to the forward-charging power punches of Charlo. All three judges scored the fight for Harrison, by scores of 116-112 and 115-113 twice. Per CompuBox, Harrison connected on 34 percent of his punches throughout the fight to Charlo’s 29 percent clip, while Charlo out landed Harrison 160 to 128, plus a 108 to 71 advantage in power punches landed.
After the fight, Harrison indicated he would be willing to give Charlo a rematch while Charlo immediately stated his intention to get his belt back. “Jermell – you gave me a shot – I’ll give you a rematch,” said Harrison. “I’m going to get my belt back,” said Charlo. “I still want Jarrett Hurd. I know my brother knows I won that fight. I might have given away a few rounds, but I won that fight.”
In the opening bout of the telecast, top heavyweight contender Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale(20-1, 18 KOs) delivered a one-punch knockout victory over Carlos Negron (20-2, 16 KOs) in the ninth-round of their heavyweight showdown. “I knew the big shot was coming, it was just a matter of time,” said Breazeale. “I was setting up that right hand all night. Since the third round I noticed he dropped his left hand when he took a step to the left, and that’s what I got him with.”
Breazeale started out slowly as Negron was able to score early with a lead left hook and an effective body attack. Breazeale stalked his opponent and threw power punches with some success before connecting on a huge right hand before the bell to end the fourth round. “It’s been a long stretch since I’ve been in the ring,” said Breazeale. “I definitely worked off some ring rust, worked some great combinations and body shots, and finally got the knockout.”
The 2012 U.S. Olympian Breazeale had more success through the middle rounds, controlling the action with his jab and pressure that negated Negron’s offense. Midway through the ninth round, Breazeale caught Negron in the corner and connected on an overhand right that sent Negron crashing into the ropes.
Referee Arthur Mercante stopped the bout 1:37 into the ninth round. Breazeale, who is the mandatory challenger for heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, had a message for the champion, who was seated ringside.
“I’m next in line for Deontay Wilder and I’m coming for him,” said Breazeale. “I’ve been waiting for him and I did what I had to do tonight. I’m ready for him now. “I know Wilder is here in the crowd. He came to watch. He knows I’m next. He better be holding on to that belt really tightly, because I’m coming. ‘Trouble’ is already here.”
# # #
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.
Welterweight World Champion Thurman Defends Title Against Veteran Contender Josesito Lopez; Undefeated Adam Kownacki Battles Gerald Washington Saturday, January 26 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes from Barclays Center in Brooklyn
Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions
BROOKLYN (December 22, 2018) – Unbeaten welterweight champion Keith Thurman and veteran welterweight Josesito Lopez, plus Brooklyn’s undefeated heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki, hosted a press conference Saturday night to discuss their fights on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes taking place Saturday, January 26 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see Kownacki battle former title challenger Gerald Washington in a 10-round contest and unbeaten featherweight contender Tugstgogt Nyambayar take on Claudio Marrero to open the telecast, all leading up to the Thurman vs, Lopez main event.
Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the fighters had to say Saturday before going face-to-face in the Barclays Center interview room, prior to the PBC on FOX fight night in Brooklyn:
KEITH THURMAN “I feel great physically. We’re working really hard and just getting back into everything we did before the injury. It feels tremendous and I’m so happy to be able to do this back in Brooklyn. January 26, you will see the return of the number one welterweight in the world. I need to come back and stay active and healthy. I’m going to remind everyone this year why I’m one of the baddest men on the planet. At the end of the day, I’m here to make a statement that ‘One Time’ is back. I have one belt, and I’m missing one belt. I’m going to re-establish my own accomplishments this year, then go from there. We’re taking it one fight at a time. Right now my eyes are set on Josesito Lopez.”
“I’m a world-class fighter. I’ve fought through injuries my whole career. A real fighter ends up getting addicted to the game. There’s nothing better in this life than being under those lights and being part of the action. My legacy is not over. Unification against Danny Garcia was not enough for me. Ultimately, I’m just waiting to be presented with a man who is better than me. There might not be one, but I’m not afraid to let my ‘0’ go. “I need fights like this against a guy like Josesito Lopez. He’s going to be there and give the fans a great fight. He’s coming to take me out. He looked like he was in shape a month ago when I first saw him. “It’s been a long time and I’m truly honored to be back. It’s been hard for me to not be in the ring while I wait for the elbow to recover. I’m so happy to be back.”
JOSESITO LOPEZ “I’m really excited to be here tonight. Keith Thurman is a world-class, elite fighter and I’m going to make the most of this opportunity. I’ve been in this position before and I’ve never shied away from big battles. This is another big one and I’m going to be ready for it and become world champion.”
“I’m sure Keith Thurman is as strong and skilled as anyone I’ve ever faced. He’s undefeated for a reason. I give him his respect for that. I’m preparing for him to be the best fighter I’ve ever faced. We’re both experienced fighters who have fought world class competition. I’ve faced my share of tough heavy punchers. I’ve pretty much seen it all. Come January 26, we’re going into deep waters and we’ll see how each of us reacts.”
“No matter how active Thurman has been, the importance of this opportunity doesn’t change. If anything we might see a better and healthier Keith Thurman than we’ve seen in years. I’m expecting the best Keith Thurman there is. I’m going in against one of the toughest welterweights out there. I don’t need anyone to believe in me but myself. I’m going to give it my all to come out with that title.”
ADAM KOWNACKI “January 26 is going to be a great night. Every time I fight, it’s very exciting. I throw a lot of punches and bring the pressure. Gerald Washington is going to be a tough test, but if I get through him, I’m even closer to a title shot. That’s the ultimate goal.”
“It’s a little bit of a fairytale story. I was just a little kid from Brooklyn wearing the Golden Gloves and now I’m fighting at Barclays Center. It’s a whole new environment. Hopefully next year I’m the main event. That’s the goal and it’s going to be a dream come true. I have to keep working hard to achieve it.”
“I think when I fought Iago Kiladze, he was also a runner who could box. I managed the ring very well with him so I’m looking to do the same with Washington and punish the body. The taller they are the harder they fall. Gerald Washington is a tough exam. He’s a former title challenger and I know he’s going to bringing his A-game. My goal is to become the heavyweight champion of the world and in order to do that I have to get by Washington. That’s what I plan on doing.”
# # #
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. For more information:
Jack vs. Browne
Serving as Co-Feature of Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner Mega-Fight
Las Vegas (December 20, 2018) – While two-division world
champion Badou Jack “The Ripper” wears many hats as
an entrepreneur, philanthropist and father, it is his boxing career that has
allowed him to be on the path to greatness in and out of the ring. Therefore,
he will put his championship-caliber boxing skills on full display on Saturday,
January 19 from MGM Grand Garden Arena live on SHOWTIME PPV® against
hungry light heavyweight Marcus Browne as the co-main event of the Manny
Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner welterweight championship fight.
Jack is no stranger the pay-per-view spotlight as one of the
brightest stars in the Mayweather Promotions stable and is preparing to make a
statement on January 19.
“At this stage of my career, I’m motivated to fight the best
in the division and prove I am the top light heavyweight in the world,”
said Jack. “I want the biggest fights on the biggest stages against the
best competition.”
Despite being deep in training camp for this major step in his
career, Jack, who was recently named a finalist for the Boxing Writers
Association of America’s Marvin Kohn Good Guy Award, has not forgotten his
mission outside of the ring – the work he is doing through the Badou Jack
Foundation – which focuses on giving children around the world a fighting
chance at life. He spent Thanksgiving serving food to those less fortunate at
the Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada’s food distribution center and plans
to continue to volunteer with them moving forward as well as continuing his
work in the Middle East immediately following his fight.
“Badou is receiving a well-deserved acknowledgement for his
acts of kindness,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions.
“Not only does Badou put in hard work and maintain discipline for his
craft, he’s a family man who also looks to share the fruits of his success with
others. He remains humble and carries himself with poise as his career
advances. I know that good things will continue to come his way and I’m pleased
to have him on our team, he’s a promoter’s dream.”
While Jack has been in the ring with some very tough customers
including Nathan Cleverly, James DeGale, George Groves and Anthony Dirrell, he
knows that Browne is coming to fight and try to derail his successful campaign
at light heavyweight. Therefore, in addition to the work he is putting in at
the gym, Jack has instituted a performance and weight management regimen
overseen by renowned nutritionists Lockhart and Leith, whose clients include
world-class MMA fighters from Conor McGregor to Cris Cyborg.
Additionally, Jack is utilizing his nutrition supplement products
Ripper Nutrition before and after each workout as Lockhart and Leith are now
official partners in the product, they believe in it so much. Jack has also
welcomed Lockhart and Leith chef James Lockwood into camp to prepare each meal
as part of this regimen.
“Thanks to the opportunities Floyd Mayweather, Mayweather
Promotions and SHOWTIME have provided Badou, he has been able to establish
Ripper Nutrition and the Badou Jack Foundation,” said Amer Abdallah,
Jack’s manager. “He looks great in camp, we expect a spectacular night in
the ring and then we will get back to building his empire outside
it.”
# # #
Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s
only eight-division world champion, will face four-division world champion Adrien
“The Problem” Broner for Pacquiao’s World Boxing Association
Welterweight World Title on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, January 19
from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
In undercard action on the SHOWTIME PPV, 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 will take 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 for the WBA Interim
Championship.
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.
Jermall
Charlo vs. Matt Korobov, Jermell Charlo vs. Tony Harrison & Dominic
Breazeale vs. Carlos Negron This Saturday, December 22 Live on FOX & FOX
Deportes & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center in
Brooklyn
Click HERE for Photos from
Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions
BROOKLYN (December 19, 2018) – As fight night approaches, fighters
competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event
showed off their skills at a media workout at world famous Gleason’s Gym before
they step into the ring on December 22 from Barclays Center, the home of
BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The event is headlined by the Charlo Twins defending
their world titles and a heavyweight showdown between Dominic Breazeale and Carlos
Negron beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Jermall Charlo, who
won a coin toss with his brother, will close the show in a 12-round WBC interim
middleweight championship bout against Matt Korobov, while Jermell
Charlo will battle Tony Harrison in defense of the
WBC Super Welterweight World Title.
Tickets for the show, which is being promoted by Lions Only
Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin
at $50 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com,
or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American
Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling
844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday afternoon in
Brooklyn:
JERMALL CHARLO
“Professional athletes have to be ready for anything. I’m
ready for whoever is in the ring against me and whatever he brings. We’ll see
who is at their best on Saturday night.
“This is a headlining card for the Charlo Twins and we’re
ready to put on a show for our family and our fans. I’m ready, I’m sure Korobov
is ready, so let’s get it on.
“I know that Korobov has been training because he was on the
undercard. I’m thankful he accepted the fight and I just hope he’s done
everything right to prepare for this fight. I’m doing it right, and now we’re
going to fight.
“Brooklyn is one of my favorite places to fight. This is
familiar territory here. I’m going to prove once again that I’m one of the best
in the world.
“I don’t know Korobov but I know that every fight is
difficult. You never know what these fighters are doing. I’m a professional and
I continue to make it look easy.
“I have a weapon that no one has been able to figure out.
Once they do, I have a whole bunch of other weapons. I’m 28-years-old, I’m
having the time of my life beating these guys down. Sooner or later, I’m going
to get the megafights that everyone wants.”
MATT KOROBOV
“It was a surprise to get the call for this fight. I was
sleeping and preparing for my second workout of the day. But I was training
hard already so I accepted right away.
“I’ve been preparing as hard as I can to make everything go
exactly how I want it to on Saturday. It’s short notice but we’ve made the
proper adjustments to the fight plan and we’ll be ready to make it happen in
the ring.
“I don’t pay any attention to outside noise or anyone who
doubts me. I’ve been preparing for this all of my life. This is my second
opportunity to become a champion and I’m going to make the most of it. I’m
going to show everything I’ve got.
“I have to be the best version of myself on Saturday night.
I’m going to take all of my amateur and pro experience and mix it up to make a
great performance.”
JERMELL CHARLO
“I feel really good right now. Everything is on point and
where I need it to be. It’s fight week and it’s time to show out. I’m going to
show up and put on for Lions Only. There’s nothing more that I can ask for than
to be here to show everyone my abilities.
“I’m excited to show my skills again. This is big for me. I
have an opponent who has the mindset to come in and dethrone me. He wants to
stop the show, but it’s not over yet.
“I know that he needs to maintain his composure while trying
to win a fight. Tony Harrison is a tall, rangy fighter but it’s nothing I
haven’t seen before. He knows who he’s dealing with. My experience cannot be
overlooked.
“This training camp has been incredible. I’ve locked in with
my coach and I’ve worked hard so that I’m fresh and at my best. I can’t wait to
step into the ring on December 22.
“I hope Tony Harrison is at his best. There are certain
things that he does well and we just need to make adjustments when we get in
there. If he wants to box, we can box but if he wants to bang, we can be the
aggressor.
“Brooklyn has become the new pinnacle of boxing for a lot of
fighters and especially for me specifically. I’m winning with knockouts here
and I’m excited to get in the ring at Barclays Center once again and do what I
have to do.”
TONY HARRISON
“Camp was amazing. I don’t think it could have gone any
better. Based on all my other camps, I know that I’m absolutely ready for this
fight. Now it’s just the anxiousness of waiting.
“I’m working on staying very composed right now. This is
another day in the office for me. We’re just waiting to see how Saturday plays
out.
“This isn’t my first time fighting on the big stage at
Barclays Center so I won’t let the emotions overcome me. No matter who I’m
facing or what the platform is, I’ve been fighting my whole life. This is
second nature to me.
“I really had the time heading into this fight to have a camp
as great as I had. I’ve had the opportunity to get some amazing sparring in.
Everyone came in and really competed. It was tough work.
“I’m just going to come in and do my job. When I become
champion I’m going to get that same respect from everyone.”
DOMINIC BREAZEALE
“Whether it’s in sparring or in primetime, I’m always going
to bring it. This is a big platform on FOX so I have to show up. The lights are
on you and I can’t wait.
“I’m excited right now because I’m chasing Deontay Wilder. I
want that WBC title. I have this fight ahead of me, but I have to beat him to
get what I really want. I want to fight for the biggest prize in the sport.
“I stopped Eric Molina last year at Barclays Center to become
the WBC mandatory and I’m just trying to keep winning while I wait my turn.
“I’m a crowd-pleasing fighter. I keep the fans on the edge of
their seats. I can move for my size and I have knockout power. I’m looking for
the knockout shot every single time.”
CARLOS NEGRON
“We’re prepared for what Breazeale and anything he can bring
into the ring. He’s a tough opponent but I’ve trained too hard not to leave it
all in the ring.
“This has been a great training camp. I had tremendous
sparring that pushed me to another level. I’m excited to get out there and show
it all on fight night.
“This should be a great fight for fans. I’m planning on being
aggressive and bringing the fight to him. I hope he’s ready for it, because I
don’t want any excuses after the fight.”
Unbeaten Super Middleweight Contender Talks World Title Showdown Against IBF Titleholder Jose Uzcategui that Headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Sunday, January 13 from Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles
Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/Premier Boxing Champions & Mario Serrano/Team Plant
LAS VEGAS (December 19, 2018) – Unbeaten 168-pound contender Caleb
“Sweethands” Plant took time to talk about his current
training as he prepares to battle IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose
Uzcategui in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX
Deportes Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los
Angeles.
Coverage on FS1 and FOX Deportes 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.
Plant (17-0, 10 KOs) is originally from Nashville, Tennessee but
now lives and trains in Las Vegas. Here is what he said about his first world title
opportunity and more from training camp with trainer Justin Gamber at City
Boxing Las Vegas.
On his recent training camp:
“This training camp has been great. We took
everything to the next level as I do every camp. We stepped up everything
for this camp, the sparring partners, the strength and conditioning, all of the
training is on another level. I’ll be at my best come fight night and I
can’t wait.”
On his matchup with Jose Uzcategui:
“Everyone says Jose Uzcategui is the
bogeyman, but after January 13th, I don’t want no excuses. He is a top fighter
in the division, but I will take that spot after I take his title from him. All
I can tell him is be ready.”
On fighting for his first world title:
“This has been a lifelong dream of mine to
be fighting for a world title and now that time has finally come. I’ll be
fighting for my daughter Alia, may she rest in peace. The trials and
tribulations I’ve gone through to get to this point have been overwhelming at
times, but they’ve only made me stronger. I’ve worked hard for this defining
moment in my boxing career and I’m going to rise to the occasion, and everyone
will hear the words…And The New!”
On fighting on FS1 and FOX Deportes during the
NFL Playoffs on FOX:
“It’s going to be a big weekend for sports
with the NFC playoffs going down on FOX, but the night is going to be capped
off with a great world championship fight. You have two warriors who will be putting
everything on the line for super middleweight supremacy. Fans of all
sports who will be watching are going to see a man in myself who is hungry and
dangerous. I will be crowned 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.
MIAMI (December 18, 2018) – Four-division world champion and must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner hosted a media workout at Miami Beach’s famed 5th Street Gym on Tuesday as he prepares to face Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion, for his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, January 19 from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
In undercard action on the SHOWTIME PPV, 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 will take 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.
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 MGMResorts International box office.
Cincinnati’s Broner, one of boxing’s most popular and colorful personalities, is training under the tutelage of Kevin Cunningham in nearby West Palm Beach, Fla.
Here is what Broner and Cunningham had to say Tuesday:
ADRIEN BRONER
“This fight is real important. This is a hell of a fight not only for me but for the sport. This is a fight that needed to happen for the sport and we are going to put on a hell of a show.
“I always knew that one day I would be having fights like this. Honestly I thought he [Pacquiao] would be done with boxing by now but I always knew I would have a fight of this magnitude on this platform, pay-per-view and all and now I’m here.
“I knew what to expect. I knew he [Kevin] was going to be real strict and I just came prepared.Ready to put it all in and put it all on the line.”
On what he does in his down time:
“I try to rest as much as possible. I’m training so much and training real hard. This will be my second workout of the day and then after this I have another workout at 8:30 p.m. so that will be the third workout for the day so you know all my off time I try to eat properly, stay hydrated and stay focused.”
On how it feels to train
in a gym that hosted greats like Muhammad Ali:
“It’s lovely. I never knew this gym existed and this is my first time ever being here or ever hearing about this gym being legendary. Muhammad Ali paved the way for guys like me and Sugar Ray Leonard and everyone else so, it’s legendary.
“I always tell other fighters and other people it takes more to be a star than just boxing. I just have everything it takes to be a mega star.”
On Pacquiao’s last fight against Lucas Matthysse:
“I didn’t see it but I heard he looked good. I don’t know what to expect. I’m just training for the best Pacquiao. And I’m going to go out there and do what I have to do to get the victory.”
How do you feel training in South Florida?
“I’m not focused on the clubbing and stuff and all that stuff will be here after the fight. I’m 110 percent focused on this fight.”
What he will do after the Pacquiao Fight?
“Boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. My main focus is getting past Manny Pacquiao first and then we can talk about other things.”
On whether or not
Pacquiao has a weakness:
“It’s not a mystery. He has seven losses. It’s not a mystery that he can lose but anyone can lose on any given day. It’s whoever prepares the best and I’m preparing myself to do what I need to do. I don’t care about stopping him or whether it’s a unanimous decision, as long as I’m victorious.”
On whether or not this is the biggest fight of his career:
“This is definitely my biggest fight, biggest magnitude, biggest platform I’ve ever been on but you never know. I could probably go in there and make this look like the easiest fight of my career you just never know.”
KEVIN CUNNINGHAM
“I think he’shaving even a better camp than the last. He’s added a new strength and conditioning coach and everything is working out perfect and camp is going extremely well and smooth. AB’s looking fast and explosive. I have no complaints.
“Adrien’s got everything; he’s a real throwback fighter. He’s got speed, he’s got power, he’s got quickness, he’s got footwork. He can punch and he can bang and he can box.He’s got skills and he can be slick if he wants to be. So he’s the total package.
“We have an idea of the way the fight is going to go. We’ve studied tons of Pacquiao footage and he pretty much fights the same every fight. Manny’s a rhythm fighter so it’s all about getting in his rhythm. He pretty much does his thing. But outside of that I’ve never really seen him make too many adjustments. He’s pretty much the same guy.”
Also in Action! Unbeaten Adam Kownacki Faces Gerald Washington in Heavyweight Attraction & Unbeaten Featherweight Contender Tugstgogt Nyambayar Battles Claudio Marrero
Tickets on Sale Now!
BROOKLYN (December 18, 2018) – Undefeated WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman returns to the ring after a lengthy injury layoff to defend his title against veteran Josesito Lopez on Saturday, January 26 live in primetime in the main event o Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see a co-feature featuring fast-rising unbeaten Polish heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki as he clashes with former title challenger Gerald Washington in a 10-round battle and unbeaten featherweight contender Tugstgogt Nyambayar battles Claudio Marrero to open the telecast.
Tickets for the show begin at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com,or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
“There is a high level of anticipation and intrigue surrounding the ring return of welterweight champion Keith Thurman, and Josesito Lopez will certainly provide some answers about where Thurman is after nearly two years out of the ring,’’ said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Adam Kownacki and Gerald Washington have the opportunity to show exactly where they stand in the resurgent heavyweight division. Both of them are big heavyweights who love to throw power shots. Nyambayar and Marrero are guaranteed to add fireworks to an already thrilling show. It’s the kind of night that will have fans on the edge of their seats.’’
“I speak for boxing
fans everywhere when I say we are eagerly anticipating Keith Thurman’s return
to the ring,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of BSE Global. “He has experienced great
success at Barclays Center, so it’s fitting that he will lead off a strong year
of BROOKLYN BOXING programming in 2019. I also look forward to seeing local
favorite Adam Kownacki, who always comes with a strong contingent of loud
fans.”
Thurman (28-0, 22 KOs) made a steady rise through the welterweight ranks and reached the pinnacle with hard-fought victories over Shawn Porter and Danny Garcia at Barclays Center,the latter of which earned him a WBC crown in addition to his WBA title. But a string of injuries has sidelined him for nearly two years, calling into question his place amongst the 147-pound elites. The 30-year-old Thurman, who is still the reigning WBA welterweight champion, is looking to regain his top-tier status in the division starting with Lopez.
Thurman, who lives and trains in Clearwater, Florida, enters the ring for the first time since a split decision victory Garcia on March 4, 2017.
“I’m extremely excited to step back into the ring,’’ said Thurman. “It’s a little nerve-wracking considering the time off and because I want to have a tremendous performance. I want to speak more with my hands more than my words and quiet the naysayers who think that Keith Thurman has lost his passion and skills in boxing. I believe I’m the best welterweight in the division and in the world and I hope to showcase that on January 26 with a knockout. The best fights in the welterweight division have involved Keith Thurman and that will continue to be the case. I’m looking forward to having a tremendous year and showing why I’m number one.”
The 34-year-old Lopez(36-7, 19 KOs) is looking to thwart Thurman’s plans to regain his lofty position in the 147-pound division. Nicknamed “The Riverside Rocky’’ because of his all-action style, the Riverside, California-native has stepped into the ring against some of the best boxers of this generation. He has rattled off three straight victories since suffering a TKO loss to former welterweight champion Andre Berto in 2015. Lopez is coming off a unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten Miguel Cruz on April 28 live on FOX.
“I’m approaching this fight leaving no stone unturned as I prepare to take that world championship,’’Lopez said. “I’ve set up training camp with altitude, chasing chickens,chopping wood – really into putting in the work. Overall the layoff will affect him and there could be a little hesitation, but we’ll see come fight night. The improvements that I’ve made with Robert Garcia the last couple of years will come into play. They’ve strengthened my qualities and I can’t wait to show it to the world.”
Kownacki (18-0, 14 KOs) has risen through the heavyweight ranks with a tough-as-nails brawling style that produced a string of knockout victories and exciting showdowns. His knockout streak ended at four in his last fight when he scored a unanimous decision victory over former heavyweight champion Charles Martin on Sepember 8. Kownacki, who was born in Lomza, Poland and now lives in Brooklyn, will be fighting at Barclays Center for a third straight time and the eighth time overall.
“Living in Brooklyn this is like a home game for me,” said Kownacki.” I’ve had some of my best performances at Barclays Center and I can’t wait to step into the ring against Gerald Washington and showcase myself on PBC on FOX. There is nothing better to start off the year than with a knockout and that’s what I plan on doing on January 26 at Barclays Center. I hope all my fans will come out like they always do and have the arena in white and red.’’
Washington (19-2-1, 12 KOs) is a 6-foot-6 heavyweight who has been able to use his athletic ability to power his way past most of the opponents he faces. That athleticism will pose a challenge to Kownacki, who could be facing the toughest fight of his career.The 36-year-old Washington of Vallejo, California is a former college football standout at the University of Southern California and a U.S. Navy veteran who has challenged Deontay Wilder for his championship. He is coming off a unanimous decision victory over John Wesley Nofire in his last fight on June 10.
“I can’t wait to show everything I’ve been working on,’’ said Washington, “Boxing is a sport of truth. It brings the truth to light and it exposed my truth and what I needed to work on. You have to be able to adjust and be comfortable in every situation. You have to be ready for what’s to come. I’m expecting a hard fight from him. He’s a bruiser. He’s tough and he loves to fight. He’s in his hometown and he’s ready and he’s going to bring it, but I’m ready to position myself to fight again for a world title.’’
Nyambayar (10-0, 9KOs) has made a rapid ascent through the talent-laden featherweight division with precision and power. The 26-year-old Nyambayar, who is from Ulan-Bator Mongolia and now lives in Carson, California, won a silver medal in the 2012 London Olympics as a member of the Mongolian boxing team. He scored a KO victory over Oscar Escandon in his last fight on May 26.
Marrero (23-2, 17KOs), a 29-year-old southpaw from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is coming off a stunning KO victory over Jorge Lara in his last fight on April 28.Marrero two losses have come against former featherweight champion Jesus Cuellar in 2013 and Jesus Rojas in 2015. A victory over Nyambayar will putMarrero in position to fight for a world title again.w
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions Saturday, January 19
From the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas
Plus! Former World Champion Rau’shee Warren
Meets Unbeaten Nordine Oubaali for Vacant WBC Bantamweight Title &
Unbeaten Featherweight Jhack Tepora Takes on
Former World Champion Hugo Ruiz
LAS VEGAS (December 17, 2018) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The pay-per-view undercard will also see 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 match up that was edged by Oubaali. In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast, unbeaten JhackTepora will take on former world champion Hugo Ruiz in a 12-round featherweight clash.
In the main event,
Senator Manny “Pacman” 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.
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.
“Not
only will the fans witness a tremendous main event, they will get to enjoy
three action-packed match-ups that will add another level to the pay-per-view
portion of the card,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather
Promotions. “Both Jhack Tepora and Hugo Ruiz are looking to make a name
for themselves in the stacked featherweight division, while Rau’shee Warren and
Nordine Oubaali are in the prime of their careers and battling for the WBC
title. Mayweather Promotions’ Badou Jack has made an exemplary statement for
his career inside and outside of the ring and is focused on further
strengthening his resume, while Marcus Browne is looking to showcase his talent
on boxing’s biggest stage.”
Jack (22-1-3, 13 KOs)
has fought twice at light heavyweight since relinquishing his super
middleweight world title to campaign at 175 pounds. The 35-year-old, who was
born in Stockholm, Sweden, represented his father’s Gambia in the 2008 Olympics
and now lives in Las Vegas. Jack won the super middleweight world title with a
majority decision against Anthony Dirrell in 2015 and successfully defended the
title three times before he relinquished the belt following a hard-fought
majority draw against James DeGale in one 2017’s best fights. In his first bout
at 175 pounds, Jack stopped Nathan Cleverly to pick up the WBA light
heavyweight title before fighting to a majority draw against Adonis Stevenson
in his last fight on May 19.
“I’m looking
forward to getting back onto another big stage to perform for my fans across
the globe and prove I am one of the best fighters in the world,” said
Jack. “I plan to show off my skills with a dominating performance on
January 19. I always want to fight the best, and he’s the best that’s
available right now. I’m always 100 percent ready and I’m going into this
fight stronger, faster and with more experience than ever before.”
The 28-year-old Browne
(22-0, 16 KOs) will be taking a step up to face an elite opponent when he battles
Jack. A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic boxing team, Browne moved up the
contender ladder in the 175-pound division with brute force and power, scoring
three straight knockout victories against Thomas Williams, Jr., Sean Monaghan
and Francy Ntetu. Browne, who was born and raised in Staten Island, N.Y.,
scored a unanimous decision victory over Lenin Castillo in his last fight on
August 4.
“This is really an
honor and a privilege to have an opportunity to showcase my talents on a big
time pay-per-view card featuring Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner,” Browne
said. “Badou Jack is a championship-caliber fighter and one of the
toughest guys you can fight in the light heavyweight division. I’m ready for
the step up in competition and focused on being a household name in the sport
sooner rather than later.”
Warren (16-2, 4 KOs) is
looking to return to the world championship ranks with a victory over Oubaali.
The 31-year-old became the first three-time Olympic boxer from the U.S. when he
qualified for consecutive Olympic teams in 2004, 2008 and 2012. His Olympic run
came to an end against Oubaali when he lost a narrow 19-18 decision in the
first round of the 2012 London Games. A southpaw from Cincinnati, Ohio, Warren
won the WBA Bantamweight World Championship with a majority decision over Juan
Carlos Payano in 2016 and lost the title the next year to Zhanat Zhakiyanov by
split-decision.
“This fight means
everything for me and it’s about to be the biggest moment of my career,”
Warren said. “Not only am I fighting for the WBC belt, but it’s on
pay-per-view. When I first won the title it was like winning the gold medal at
the Olympics. After I lost the title, it made me much hungrier and I want to
get it back even more. I fought this guy in the Olympics, so I’m fighting for
revenge. This isn’t the Olympics. This is 12 rounds and I don’t think he’s
fought anybody like me. I have no choice but to put it all on the line on
January 19.”
The 32-year-old Oubaali
(14-0, 11 KOs), an unbeaten southpaw from Lens, Pas-de-Calais, France, has
knocked out his last five opponents. His most recent KO of Luis Melendez on
April 17 moved Oubaali up the ranks to position him for a world title shot.
Oubaali, who is the sixth of 18 children born in France to parents who are from
Morocco, twice represented France at the Olympics, qualifying in 2008 and 2012
when he defeated Warren.
“Many people are
waiting for this fight because it’s the second time we meet,” said Oubaali.”I
beat Rau’shee Warren at the 2012 London Games in a great battle. In the
meantime, Rau’shee captured a world championship and lost it. Right now, I’m
the WBC No. 1 ranked bantamweight fighter in the world. It will be a great
fight in Las Vegas on January 19 and I intend to beat Rau’shee again to become
the new WBC world champion.”
The 25-year-old Tepora
(22-0, 17 KOs) has steadily risen up the ranks since turning pro in 2012 and
most recently captured the WBA interim featherweight crown with a ninth-round
stoppage of Edivaldo Ortega in July. Representing Cebu City, Philippines,
Tepora enters his U.S. debut on January 19 with stoppage wins in 11 of his last
12 contests.
“It
has always been a dream to fight in the United States,” said Tepora.
“I never dreamed that my first fight in the U.S. would be on a card with
Senator Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner. I look forward to a tremendous fight
on January 19 and defending my title versus former world champion Hugo Ruiz. As
you all know the best rivalry in boxing is Filipino vs. Mexican. It’s going to
be a great fight.”
Fighting out of Los
Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Ruiz (38-4, 33 KOs) will make his featherweight debut
on January 19 after picking up two victories in 2018. The 30-year-old won a
super bantamweight world title with a first round stoppage of Julio Ceja in
2016, avenging his previous loss to Ceja in one of 2015’s most exciting fights.
He now seeks to position himself for a world title at 126 pounds with a victory
against Tepora.
“I
expect it to be a good fight because Tepora is undefeated and a good Filipino
champion,” said Ruiz. “But I’m ready. I don’t think he can handle my
power. I’m going to knock him out. I want to do my best to win the title. I’ve
been watching videos of him and I’ve been training hard. I’m really focused on
how to beat him. I’m still young, but I’ve got the experience to handle him in
this fight.”
