Category Archives: UK Boxing

boxing, UK Boxing

The Freeman Juggernaut Rolls On – Stops O’Reilly in Four

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Liverpool’s unbeaten Middleweight prospect Martin Freeman made an emphatic statement on Saturday night, with his fourth round stoppage victory over Will O’Reilly at the Jubilee Sports Bank in his home city.

The 26 year old Liverpudlian exuded class throughout the contest, even when being forced onto the back foot by the ever moving forward all out attack tactics employed by O’Reilly, Freeman just adapted his tactics to counter and control the contest in sensational fashion.

The Liverpudlian’s power was the defining factor of the contest, especially in the fourth, when a massive right from Freeman shook O’Reilly to the core, forcing the Mancunian battler to stagger back onto the ropes and cover up just as the contest approached the minute mark of the round.

In an instant Freeman stepped forward and let rip with a scintillating bombardment of massive lefts and rights, O’Reilly covered up and absorbed the first couple of shots on the gloves and arm, but Freeman’s power and precise placement ensured that the Liverpudlian’s Exocets began to power their way through the Mancunian’s guard with little resistance, after a couple of particularly venomous head shots referee Chris Kelly stepped in and stopped the contest on the one minute and two second mark of the fourth round.

Following the fight Freeman said;

“I am really pleased with my performance from Saturday night.

“Yes it was a tough fight and my opponent not only took some of my best shots but he also gave some good punches too!

“I’m definitely glad I got some good rounds in too as I won my last two fights in the first round.”

Freeman’s gym mate Lee Cooper was also on the card and secured a shut out points victory over Kyle McNicholas.

Both Freeman and Cooper will be back in action on the next Kyle Gallagher promoted Victory Fight Club event at the Jubilee Sports Bank on 28th March 2020.

boxing, UK Boxing

Decastro Sensationally Stops Castaneda in Five in Lincoln

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Report: Gianluca Di Caro

On Saturday night, at the Engine Room at Lincoln University, the local fans turned out in force to support local lad Nathan Decastro in his defence of the World Boxing Union (WBU) Super Middleweight World title he’s held since April as well as attempt to add the World Boxing Foundation (WBF) Crown to his collection against late replacement Fernando Castaneda from Mexico.

Originally Decastro was due to face Nicaraguan Jose Varela, however on Wednesday Varela, who was in Spain at the time, was refused an exit visa by the Spanish Authorities when he arrived at Barcelona Airport for his flight to the United Kingdom, so was unable to make the trip to Lincoln.

The fight itself was quite a messy affair, due to Castaneda’s continual holding, following Decastro landing a vicious body shot early on in the first that clearly was affecting the Mexican, as each time Decastro came forward and let rip he’d grab hold to prevent further punishment to the body.

Rounds two and three were in similar vein although to be fair there was a bit more boxing, rather than wrestling, action. Decastro worked the body of his foe whenever he got the opportunity, which wasn’t that often due to the Mexican’s tactics of hit and hold.

Round four was far more open following referee Lee Murtagh having stern words with Castaneda about the holding, so much so there were a few venomous exchanges that followed, however each time Decastro targeted the body Castaneda would still initially grab hold, so Decastro began firing exocets to the head.

Decastro clearly had enough of being frustrated by Castaneda’s tactics as the fifth stanza began, the Bardney man changed tactics slightly and began to go forward far more as well as quicker and land some serious shots in the first minute or so, Castaneda responded in kind but quite ineffectively due to his determination to protect his body from further punishment by keeping his distance.

About half way through the round Decastro backed the Mexican toward the rope and feigned a jab, causing Castaneda to raise his hands just enough to create an opening and let rip with a massive hook to the body that sent the Mexican to the canvas doubled up in pain.

Castaneda initially tried to rise, but immediately collapsed and writhed in pain, Referee Lee Murtagh immediately waived the fight off and summoned the doctor to the ring as Decastro and his team began their celebrations. Official time of stoppage one minute and thirty eight seconds of the fifth round.

Prior to Decastro-Castaneda see Sophie Varley in action against Jaime Bates for the Professional Boxing Council (PBC) International Bronze Championship.

Have to say this was a cracking fight from start to finish, the two girls fought hard for the entire two minutes of every single round. Varley landing some seriously big shots, including one in the sixth that shook Bates to the core, her legs were gone but somehow she managed to not just stay on her feet but was savvy enough to give herself a few seconds to recover her composure by hanging out a jab to keep Varley at bay.

Each round was all action and seriously close, so much so that I couldn’t split them, score wise, on a few of the rounds and each to my mind had secured a couple of rounds and have to admit I thought that the result would be a draw, I was wrong (I’m clearly not Judge material) as the three experienced judges scorecards read; Adrian Thorne 57-59, James Ancliff 57-58 and Graeme Beauly 56-59 all in favour of Jaime Bates.

Prior to Varley-Bates was another cracking fight between Sheffield’s debuting Zac Lane and Nicaraguan Frederick Castro.

The clash in styles was what really made this fight, Castro has a distinct forward coming all out attack style, whilst Layne’s emulates the style of Prince Naseem, and boy oh boy the youngster made this style his own, dipping and swaying out of danger before throwing stinging counters each time the Nicaraguan attacked. Saying that I should stress Layne isn’t one dimensional at all, when needed he was more than happy to go toe-to-toe, letting rip with extremely fast and powerful lefts and rights.

It was great fight to watch, close and all action throughout. After four fantastic rounds Referee Lee Murtagh scored the contest 39-37 in favour of the Debuting Zac Layne, much to the annoyance of Castro and his corner who surrounded the referee disputing the score, which I fully understand as he was the most aggressive but have to say Layne neutralised the Mexican’s attacks with ease and his countering was sensational and to my view had done more than enough to secure the victory.

Prior to Layne versus Castro was another all action thriller, the time between two unbeaten fighters Sugar Atahasan from the Turkish Republic of Cyprus against Leeds’ Jack Jones.

Atahasan dominated the first stanza utilising his reach advantage to extremely good effect. However he didn’t have it all his own way especially as the fight progressed into the second as Jones patiently worked away fashioning openings before letting rip with big shots to the body and head of Atahasan.

Atahasan stepped up a gear and really went for it in the third, and as in the first dominated proceedings. Much of the same in the fourth, well until about midway through when Jones took advantage of a defensive error by Atahasan and landing a peach of a shot that sent the Turkish Cypriot to the canvas. Atahasan barely touched down and was on his feet in an instant and on the restart went in hard and fast though to the end of the round.

After four sensational rounds Referee Lee Murtagh’s scorecard read 37-38 in favour of Jack Jones.

The fourth contest of the night pitted Orkney based Liverpudlian Paul Peers against Tanzania’s Amos Mwamakula in a four rounder.

Again what a fantastic all action war, Peers went in hard and fast and kept piling on the pressure with massive shots to body and head for the entire first round, Mwamakula is as clearly as tough as they come to withstand the intense powerful attacks from Peers.

The second was slightly less intense, as Peers elected to switch tactics slightly, slowing the pace and picking his shots. Much the same in the third, but in the fourth Peers stepped up the pace a little and as in the first targeted the seriously tough Tanzanian’s body.

After four excellent rounds of boxing Referee Lee Murtagh’s scorecard read 40-36 in favour of Paul Peers.

Prior to Peers vs Mwamakula was a heavyweight contest between Barrow-in-Furness’ Lee Kellett and Lithuania’s Tomas Vaicickas.

Again this was a full on war, with both men going full out for much of the contest. Kellet’s performance was the best I’ve seen from him in quite a while, he looked confident and really was putting so much power behind his shots.

Vaicickas is as tough as they come and happily absorbed the big shots coming his way from the Barrow man before countering style. Whilst Kellet dominated the first coupe of rounds, Vaicickas came into his own in the third after he stepped the pace up.

The fourth was all Kellet though, so much so that as the fight entered the final minute the Lithuanian appeared to give up and just stand with his back to the ropes due to the pace Kellett had set and just absorb punches at will.

After four great rounds it was to Referee Lee Murtagh’s scorecard, which unsurprisingly read 39-36 in favour of Lee Kellett.

The second fight of the night pitted the Turkish Republic of Cyprus’ Metin Turunc against Puerto Rico’s Jose F Leon.

Turunc started hard and fast, throwing massive bombs at every opportunity and literally was battering Leon, who could barely find an opening to counter with so many big shots constantly coming his way.

The Puerto Rican’s corner were so concerned that around the minute mark of the first round his corner threw in the towel in an effort to save their man further punishment, however Referee Lee Murtagh just kicked the towel out and let the fight continue, which it did but not for long as Turunc landed another huge shot to send Leon down and out on the one minute and twenty seven second mark of the first round.

Please don’t get me wrong, yes it was all one way traffic, as seems to be the norm with Turunc, I’ve seen him fight before and know just how relentless he is, Leon tried his hardest to stay in the fight but was outclassed by the seriously tough and powerful Turkish Cypriot.

The opening fight of the night really set the tone for the whole evening, as I hope I’ve made clear earlier that all bar the main event and of course Turunc vs Leon, the fights were all closely fought Battle Royale’s of the highest level, well believe me the opening bout, between debuting Lewis Mulberry and Gerona, Spain based Nicaraguan Pablo Narvaez, was another level again, it was sensational.

Mulberry really went for it right from the opening bell and boxed sensationally, Narvaez is a talent so no surprise he was up for a battle and gave as good as he got in return, however things went slightly awry for the Nicaraguan in the first when he got caught by a peach of a shot and sent to the canvas – will say I’ve seen Narvaez in action a few times and this is the first time I’ve seen him down, so kudos to young Mulberry.

Round two see Narvaez being a little more defensively minded, albeit still happy to go toe-to-toe with the big punching youngster. Round three though see a reverse in fortunes as Narvaez really started to take a foothold of the proceedings, which enabled Mulberry to showcase his defensive talents and sensational countering. The fourth was an out and out war with both men going for it for the full three minutes. After four scintillating rounds of boxing Referee Lee Murtagh scored the contest 39-37 in favour of the debuting Lewis Mulberry.

I have to make Mulberry versus Narvaez the fight of the Night, it was magnificent, and also have to say Mulberry really impressed, he’s the real deal, he has all the tools in his chest to go all the way to the top in our beloved sport, I for one can’t wait to see him in action again that’s for sure.

boxing, UK Boxing

Title on the Line for McGivern Vs Iran II on 22nd June

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Ben McGivern Vs Navid Iran II

World Boxing Union (WBU) International Light Heavyweight Championship


For Immediate Release:


London, UK – Monday 27th May 2019




Title on the Line for McGivern Vs Iran II on 22nd June


Sometimes there are fights that just capture the Boxing World’s attention, Gatti-Ward, Ali-Frazier, Froch-Kessler, Holyfield-Bowe, Marquéz-Vazquéz etc that afterwards the fans go out of their way demanding a rematch and in some cases a trilogy or more as in the case of Marquéz-Vazquéz!


In each of the cases mentioned above these were prime time internationally broadcast events, however sometimes there’s a fight that slips under the radar of the majority of fans for one reason or another.


One such fight was the Ben McGivern versus Navid Iran ‘Fight of the Year’ nominated Battle Royale back in November last year, which was broadcast live only on Facebook.


Whilst it did pass under the radar of the majority of fans worldwide, it may surprise many readers to learn that after the first fight, so many boxing fans were lighting up Social Media calling for McGivern-Iran II, that Promoter Tommy Jacobs just couldn’t ignore them and so on the 22nd June at the Prince’s Theatre in Clacton-on-Sea these two warriors will enter the arena to battle it out once more, this time for the World Boxing Union (WBU) International Crown.


Back in November McGivern-Iran, battled it out for the vacant Professional Boxing Council (PBC) Silver International Light Heavyweight title was the headline bout on Tommy Jacobs’ history making event, the first professional boxing event in Clacton-on-Sea since 1939, when Mike Kevan beat Charlie Mack.


Battled it out is the correct term; this was a Battle Royale of epic proportions.


Right from the off Iran took the fight to McGivern, backing the Scot onto the ropes and letting rip with a flurry of big left and rights. McGivern sensibly covered up and waited an opportunity to counter, which he did with good effect once the opportunity arose.


However it wasn’t enough to prevent Iran coming back with a similar forceful attack almost immediately. McGivern once again managed to counter and initially take control.


As the round progressed Iran landed a couple of cracking shots that again forced McGivern to cover up. Iran kept up the pressure with big shots, whilst McGivern caught many with his gloves some big rights got through the Scots guard, shaking him to the core.


How McGivern made it to the end of the round is unfathomable, his legs were well and truly gone, but somehow he did.


Round two see Iran come out hard and fast, however McGivern was ready for the assault, again initially covering up but this time instead of just countering and covering, he spun his opponent and went hard on the attack himself.


Round three see McGivern taking the fight to Iran, which led to some great technical boxing ensuing from both protagonists.


The next few rounds were fought in similar vein. The final round though was an out and out war; both boxers throwing caution to the wind and an all out slugfest ensued for the entire final three minutes – what an exhilarating round.


After eight fantastic rounds of boxing it was Ben McGivern declared victorious, but just who will reign victorious on the 22nd June.


Ben McGivern versus Navid Iran II, for the World Boxing Union (WBU) International Light Heavyweight Championship is the main support for Nathan Decastro versus Tommy Jacobs for the World Boxing Union (WBU) and World Boxing Foundation Super Middleweight Championships that headlines the show.


Also on the card is a further Championship fight, one that pits St Albans’ Andy Hojdys against Latvia’s Dmitrijs Ovjannikovs for both the World Boxing League (WBL) International and European Boxing League (EBL) European Light Heavyweight titles.


In addition to the three Championship contests, there are also a number of International matches, the first featuring World Boxing Council (WBC) Asia-Pacific Champion, India’s Neeraj Goyat in an eight round non-championship bout against Tanzania’s Amos Mwamakula.


Ipswich’s unbeaten Super Middleweight prospect Rob Elden looks to keep a clean sheet and extend his tally of wins when he faces the highly experienced Nicaraguan hard-man Ronny McField in a six rounder.


Clacton-on-Sea’s undefeated Featherweight Ben ‘The Claxican’ Cook also seeks to increase his win tally, when he faces Pablo Narvaez, who also hails from Nicaragua, in a four rounder.


The final Pro bout features Dean Porter, who is eager to get back to winning ways, following his loss to Jack Jones last month.


Porter also faces a Nicaraguan, in this case former International Boxing Organisation (IBO) and World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth World Title challenger Michael Isaac Carreo in a four round non-championship contest.


Nathan Decastro versus Tommy Jacobs for the World Boxing Union (WBU) and World Boxing Foundation Super Middleweight Championships headlines the event that takes place at the Prince’s Theatre, Town Hall, Station Road,, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1SE on Saturday 22nd June 2019.


Tickets, priced £60 (VIP) and £30 (Standard seating) are available by calling the ticket line on 07475 096532, or purchase on-line atwww.tkoboxoffice.com



boxing, UK Boxing

KO me in 4! Sowah’s Dreaming, After We Fight He’ll Be Having Nightmares, Decastro Retorts

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Bardney Lincolnshire’s Nathan Decastro has issued a chilling warning to his Ghanaian opponent, ‘Hitman’ Daniel Adjei Sowah, ahead of their upcoming World Title showdown at the University of Lincoln on Saturday 27th April, when the two protagonists face off for the World Boxing Union (WBU) Super Middleweight Championship of the World.

Decastro’s warning following posts on Social Media quoting a Ghanaian Newspaper article where Sowah states “I’m going to knock Decastro out in 4’ which clearly hit a nerve with the man whose ring name is ‘Nightmare’, whose response was. 

“Knock me out in 4! Sowah’s dreaming, after we fight he’ll be having nightmares.

“I’ve never lost full stop, let alone been stopped! 

“He needs to think, they call me Nathan ‘The Nightmare’ Decastro for a reason, I’ve stopped eleven of my fourteen opponents as a pro, I’m more than just a handful to contain, I’m a living Nightmare for my opponents in the ring, I’m fearless and relentless.”

Decastro, who is Ranked #4, by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) in their Intercontinental Ratings, then wryly smiled and shrugged before swiftly changing the topic of conversation.

“I’m so looking forward to the 27th, it’s been my dream to fight for a World title, specifically the WBU World title, not just because of my boxing heroes Ricky Hatton and my Promotor Lee McAllister had both won WBU World Titles, but also because Bracebridge Boxing Club, where I train, has a history with the title.

“Owner Denny Oliver’s son Kelly, a four time senior ABA Champion boxed for it in South Africa against Sebastian Rothmann. I’ve always looked up to Kelly so fighting for the same title as him is special.”

Decastro continued. “My first fight was 22nd May 2001 and from that day I knew I wanted to be a professional fighter and have the opportunity to be a Champion. 18 years later I’m getting the chance to make my dream a reality and challenge for a World title in my home City of Lincoln.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to my fans, who are really getting behind me. This show will be a sell out. It really means a lot to me to have that kind of support.

“I would like to say thank you to my team, my sponsors, who make this all possible, my Dad for all his time training me, pad work etc. Sam Vickers my Strength and Conditioning coach, Craig Barton my Dietician, my Physio Dale Hibberd, my Promotor Lee McAllister, thank you for putting such a storming fight card together as well as giving me the chance to fight in my home City and lastly my Girlfriend Rachel Casey.

Rachel has been my absolute rock for this show! She has done everything on her own, organising everything, selling tickets, she’s taken all the pressure off me so I can concentrate on training. What she has done is incredible. I’m a very lucky guy to have someone who really pushes me to be the best person I can be.”

Nathan ‘Nightmare’ Decastro Versus ‘The Hitman’ Daniel Adjei Sowah for the World Boxing Union (WBU) Super Middleweight Championship of the World headlines the Lee McAllister Assassin Management and Promotions “Nightmare Back in Lincoln” event at The Engine Shed at the University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS.

Tickets: VIP Balcony: SOLD OUT, Ringside: SOLD OUT, Standard: £30.00. To purchase tickets please call Rachel Casey on 07736 737750 or to buy online go to www.tkoboxoffice.com

boxing, UK Boxing

JOE JOYCE vs. BERMANE STIVERNE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS FOR HEAVYWEIGHT SHOWDOWN THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHOWTIME® FROM THE O2 IN LONDON

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Joyce And Stiverne Erupt Over 2017 Sparring Session At Final Press Conference In London For Saturday’s Co-Feature To James DeGale vs. Chris Eubank Jr.


 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Begins Live At 3:45 p.m. ET/12:45 p.m. PT




Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Ian Walton/SHOWTIME


 
LONDON – February 20, 2019 – Undefeated heavyweight Joe Joyce and former heavyweight world champion Bermane Stiverne sounded off at the final press conference on Wednesday for their 12-round showdown that opens a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader this Saturday live on SHOWTIME (3:45 p.m. ET/12:45 p.m. PT) from The O2 in London.


 
Joyce (7-0, 7 KOs), Stiverne (25-3-1, 21 KOs) and their respective camps had to be separated as they debated the truth surrounding a 2017 sparring session in Las Vegas.  Stiverne was preparing for his November 2017 rematch with WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder while Joyce was readying for his professional debut after a decorated amateur career.  Both Joyce and Stiverne promised to erase any doubt surrounding the sparring session this Saturday.   


 
A 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist, Joyce aims to continue his perfect knockout streak as a professional and inch closer to a world title shot.  A former WBC Heavyweight World Champion, Stiverne hopes to prove he’s still a force in the stacked heavyweight division following a disappointing 2017 loss to Wilder. 


 
In the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, former two-time super middleweight world champion James DeGale will face-off with former world title challenger and British rival Chris Eubank Jr. in a 12-round grudge match.  Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will host the doubleheader from London with versatile combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein.  Three Hall of Famers will round out the telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial ringside scorer, and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. 


 
Here’s what the fighters and their camps had to say during Wednesday’s press conference at Intercontinental at The O2. 


 
JOE JOYCE:

“I had a really good camp in Big Bear and I’m ready to go and put a dent on Stiverne on Saturday night. 


 
“Bermane Stiverne, all respect to him, he’s a former WBC Champion.  I have a lot of respect for him for taking this fight.  It’s the perfect fight right now for my situation.  It’s a great stepping stone for my career. 


 
“I’m top five in the WBA at the moment, I’m moving fast.  Each fight is getting me closer and closer to the top three names in the heavyweight division.  I’m just going to keep on working hard in the gym and if everything goes well I’ll be back training for the next one soon.  This year I’m going to make big strides.


 
“It was four rounds [of sparring] but I think that’s all he could do at that stage.  He says he took me to school but I went to university, if you know what I mean.  When we sparred in his camp in Las Vegas he was a bit lethargic.  I don’t really care, though – they can talk however they want but we’ll see what happens Saturday night. 


 
“I know how good I am and I just need to show all of you guys.  I’m happy with Richard [Schaefer] having the faith in me.  I’m just going to do my job and show how good I am.


 
“He’s towards the end of his career.  He’s going to want to beat me to get back in the mix, but good luck to him.  I’d be happy if I beat him before seventh or eighth round.  I’m not going to be Wilder. I won’t beat him in under a round. I’m not there yet, but I will be eventually.


 
“This is quite a step up for me. I have my eyes set on bigger fights and he is the right step for me.  To be honest, I was surprised that he accepted the challenge.  I think that he believes that a win over me will help him regain his status as a top heavyweight.  He won’t beat me.


 
“He’s going to try to come in and try to take me out early, but he’s not going to be able.  I’m ready for him.  I’m confident that towards the end of the year my name will be among the top five heavyweights in the world.


 
“A Wilder fight, that’s a fight to make in the future.  That’s a good fight, I like the WBC belt.”


 
BERMANE STIVERNE:

“It’s good to be back.  I feel great.  I came prepared.  We can talk all we want right now but what matters is what happens Saturday night.  I’m prepared.  My team made sure of that. 


 
“I’m not looking past Joyce.  That’s what I have to take care of on Saturday.  I’m well prepared.  We can talk about the future once that business is taken care of. 


 
“There are a lot of stories about our sparring, but it wasn’t anything too interesting.  It was a couple, maybe four rounds.  Nothing to talk about.  I’m not going into this fight based on the sparring we had.  I’ve never disrespected this man.  I posted a picture and thanked him for the sparring. 


 
“Obviously they are taking this fight based on what happened in the last fight with Wilder and I’m glad.  They are underestimating me.  We could go back and forth all day but that’s not what matters.  What matters is what happens on Saturday at The O2. 


 
“I’m a stumbling block, not a stepping stone.


 
“I’m glad he thinks I’m here as a gatekeeper or stepping stone.  I’m not really worried about that.  They didn’t call me last minute – I was already in the gym.  However they view me, I’m ready.  I’ll tell you one thing, they didn’t catch me with my pants down.  I’m ready.


 
“I would have packed it up or hung it up if I wasn’t ready.  I’m coming to fight.


 
“Wilder hit me with a right hand in the rematch and that was it.  You’re not going to see the same thing on Saturday.  This is the perfect fight for me.  They’re taking me too lightly and it’s a mistake.”


 
ABEL SANCHEZ, Joyce’s Trainer:

“We’ve prepared for the Bermane that fought Chris Arreola. 


 
“These are the types of fights that will prepare us for the elite later this year. 


 
“I wasn’t with Joe when his sparring with Stiverne took place, but if it got a guy like Stiverne heated up, it must have been something.


 
“We feel he’s ready for the next step. Stiverne is the kind of test we have to go through to move forward with his career.


 
“Joyce is probably the most decorated fighter in the U.K. He’s smart, very athletic and he’s going to be a force to be reckoned with just like George Foreman was.


 
“In the heavyweight division one punch can define the outcome of a fight so we are preparing for the guy that fought Deontay Wilder for 12 rounds, the guy that defeated Arreola.”


 
CHARLES MOONEY, Stiverne’s Trainer:

“I brought Tony Thompson to fight David Price, which they thought it was an accident and we knocked him out in the second round.  They thought it was a fluke and they brought us back again and we stopped him again.  I’m not a giant slayer, but I’m 2-0.  I stopped an Olympic bronze medalist and now I’m going to stop a silver medalist.  We’re working our way up to gold. 


 
“Joe needs to grow up a bit.  He’s not ready for this.  We’re going to kick that ass.  My opinion, I think he should have waited a little bit.  He should have traveled the road instead of trying to leap over the fence.  When the bell rings we’ll know.”


 
RICHARD SCHAEFER, Joyce’s Promoter:

“This card is historic and one of many ITV cards that Al Haymon and the PBC will bring to the U.K. fans. 


 
“DeGale and Eubank is a 50/50 fight, but this fight is going to steal the night.  When I saw Stiverne walk into the room I knew that he means business.  When Stiverne is in tremendous shape he is a very difficult guy to beat.


 
“I’m going to make a bold statement – Joe Joyce today is the best heavyweight in the world.  By the end of the year, he’ll be heavyweight champion of the world.  By next year he’ll be ready to take on Wilder, [Anthony] Joshua and [Tyson] Fury.   


 
“Joyce is a generational talent.  This is going to be a very difficult test.  We want to see the best Stiverne because Joe Joyce is going to make a statement.”


 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,
 
subscribe to the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
boxing, UK Boxing

JOYCE FACES ACID TEST AGAINST STIVERNE AT THE O2

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Undefeated British sensation Joe Joyce faces Former World Champion Bermane Stiverne

Defends Commonwealth title alongside return of Former World Champion Lee Selby on massive DeGale v Eubank Jr. card, LIVE on ITV Box Office

Fast rising star makes fearless move in just EIGHTH pro fight to fast track towards World Title

Stiverne says it will be Joyce’s nightmare when he gets knocked out 

Legendary promoter Don King promises to ‘Re Joyce’ when Stiverne recreates McCall victory over Lewis in London 

London (23 January 2019) Poxon Sports and PBC are delighted to announce that heavyweight sensation Joe Joyce will defend his Commonwealth title in the biggest test of his unbeaten career when he takes a gigantic leap up to confront the Former WBC World Champion Bermane Stiverne on Saturday 23rd February at The O2, exclusively live on ITV Box Office.

Joyce vs. Stiverne, promoted by Poxon Sports in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions, will feature alongside the return of Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby as one of the chief-supporting contests on an action-packed show, headlined with the thrilling all-British clash between fierce rivals James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr.

The 6ft 6in ‘Juggernaut’ from Putney, South West London, has destroyed all seven of his opponents since turning professional in October 2017 after capturing the Silver medal at the Rio Olympics and has singled himself out as one of the most feared talents in the heavyweight division.

It’s a monumental test for Joyce to be facing a former World Champion in just his eighth fight, the rock-solid and sledge-hammer hitting Stiverne, born in Montreal, Canada, of Haitian descent and based out of Las Vegas, has fought some of the biggest and best in the division, including Deontay Wilder and Chris Arreola.

The fight has added bad blood thrown in resulting from a sparring session between Joyce and Stiverne in which Joyce was angered by comments from Stiverne in an interview afterwards when he said he took Joyce to school.

Joyce said, “I had respect for Bermane Stiverne. We sparred in Las Vegas; he said he took me to school in an interview etc, it got ugly and it made this fight happen. I tried to be respectful of him, but he’s rude and was having none of it. He is a former World Champion that has gone 12 rounds with Deontay Wilder and will give me a real challenge; but my engine and my power will be too much for him, a fact he should be aware of!”

Joyce’s promoter Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports, said, “After only seven fights Joe Joyce has become the number five ranked Heavyweight in the world. But the spectacular way in which he has won all of his seven fights by knockout have made him the number one fan favourite in the Heavyweight Division. Taking on the heavy-handed Former World Champion Stiverne shows that no challenge is too big for Joe as he continues to march towards the Heavyweight World Championship. Simply put: Joe Joyce has become must see TV, so make sure to tune in on February 23 or come and watch him live at the O2 in London!”

Stiverne said, “I told my promoter Don King to get me any man on earth and I will fight for the right to prove myself to the world. Then the phone rings, it’s Don, he tells me Joe Joyce – a boxer with only seven bouts – agrees to meet me! ‘Seven bouts?’. Seven fights and he has the audacity to box me? I have stopped Chris Arreola, Ray Austin, the then undefeated Kerston Manswell – and a boxer with seven fights wants to box me?!.’ I said to Don ‘Sign it, take it, grab it,’ I’m ready. Seven fights – and he wants to box me? For me it is a dream come true – but for Joyce it will be a nightmare. I will knock out Joe Joyce and step over him to KO Anthony Joshua. I’m primed and ready. The real Bermane Stiverne will be there on February 23 and will knock out Joe Joyce en route to regaining my heavyweight crown.”

Stiverne’s legendary promoter Don King, added, “It is with my greatest pleasure that Don King Productions can announce our return to Jolly Old England – the ‘Cradle of Boxing” where my pugilistic giant – the Former Heavyweight Champion of the World Bermane Stiverne begins his comeback at the expense of the Giant Joe Joyce. Unfortunately, for the local fans of Joe there will no ‘re Joycing’ – as my once – and future champion Bermane Stiverne will slay Joyce just like St. George did the dragon of old. But no matter, we will pick up the pieces and bring back Joyce just as I have brought back and helped build many a future together. I recall when I came here with Oliver McCall and he was given no chance against Lennox Lewis. Then the underdog became the top dog when Oliver KO’d the previously unbeaten champ and we went home with the title. History will repeat itself of February 23 when Bermane sends another undefeated Englishman to defeat. Now retooled, resuscitated, renewed, rejuvenated and recommitted Bermane Stiverne will resurrect his career on February 23 when the ‘Lord of Ring” crushes the “Lord of the World” – ‘Juggernaut” Joyce on his inexorable march to regain the heavyweight championship of the world. Bless all British fans, God Save the Queen – but heaven help Joe Joyce! We will see you on February 23rd.”

WBC World Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder also put forward his thoughts on the intriguing match up, he said, “Joe Joyce will be a good test for him (Stiverne). I’ve seen Joe Joyce before. He’s a good fighter. Joe Joyce fought Joe Hanks on my undercard with Tyson Fury but I didn’t get a chance to see him fight that night. But I’m looking forward to seeing him against Stiverne.”

Richard Poxon, UK Promoter for PBC, said, “I’ve known Joe from his amateur days up in Sheffield. His success at the Olympics didn’t surprise me at all. He’s transitioned well to the pros now and is clearly in a hurry. The heavyweight division is the one that everyone is looking at again and I fully expect Joe to be in the thick of the action in the coming year. Taking on a former WBC World Champion in only your eighth fight clearly shows what Joe’s ambitions are.”

Since embarking on his pro career in his quest to become World Heavyweight Champion, the quietly spoken Joyce has let his destructive fists do the talking in making bold statements to make the boxing world sit up and take notice of the fast-rising star.

In October 2017 he astounded critics when he choose to fight the hardened Former British title challenger Ian Lewison, who had just extended big-punching Dillian Whyte to ten rounds, for his pro-debut and pounded him down in eight rounds. 

Then in only his fourth fight with only 12 rounds under his belt and inside seven months of turning pro, Joyce demolished the Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Lenroy Thomas in just two rounds – setting a new record by heavyweight boxer to win the Commonwealth belt.

In his last fight, American fights fans got a brief taster of what the British star is all about when he smashed through Joe Hanks in a round to win the WBA Continental title at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles in making his glittering U.S debut.

J

oyce, now ranked #5 in the world by the WBA and progressing quickly towards a World Title shot, faces unquestionably his sternest career test to date against the vastly experienced and equally big-hitting Las Vegas based Haitian who has knocked out 21 opponents of his 25 wins in his 29 fight career.

Stiverne formerly held the WBC crown for two years after defeating Chris Arreola on points in April 2013 to win the title and then in the rematch destroying him inside six rounds in the first defence of the title in May 2014.

The rock solid Stiverne then pushed the dynamite-punching Deontay Wilder the full twelve round distance in the next defence of his WBC World Heavyweight title clash in January 2015. Stiverne became the first man to take Wilder beyond who at that point had obliterated all his opponents inside four rounds. In the rematch nearly three years later, Stiverne stepped in at the last minute when Wilder’s original opponent Luis Ortiz failed a drugs test and due to his inactivity was stopped in a round.

Stiverne is now looking to return to the elite heavyweight mix and a victory over Joyce would propel him back into the limelight and on course towards a potential world title opportunity.

Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality fromwww.sportandmusic.co.uk.

This fight will be shown exclusively on ITV Box Office. For further information and updates, please go to www.itvboxoffice.com 

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 unrivalled 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. rell, ‘����Gb�

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DeGALE v EUBANK JR ANNOUNCED FOR 23 FEBRUARY; FIRST MAJOR UK EVENT FOR ITV AND PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

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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. 

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DILLIAN WHYTE vs. DEREK CHISORA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Photographs by: Jamie McPhilimey/Matchroom

LONDON (December 20, 2018) – Top-rated heavyweight contenders Dillian Whyte and Derek Chisora took part in the final press conference before their highly anticipated rematch Saturday, December 22 live on SHOWTIME at 5:00 p.m. ET/2:00 p.m. PT from The O2 in London.

Whyte (24-1, 17 KOs) and Chisora (29-8, 21 KOs) will run back one of 2016’s best fights as the bitter rivals will continue what they started two years ago with Whyte narrowly edging Chisora in a close all-out war. The winner will have the inside track at a possible future mega-fight with IBF, WBA and WBO Champion Anthony Joshua, who will be in attendance Saturday night.  

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL telecast is hosted by Brian Custer and Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood. Live fight coverage will be provided by Sky Sports Box Office. 

Here is what the principals had to say Thursday from the Canary Riverside Plaza Hotel in London:

DILLIAN WHYTE

“There are levels to this thing and my levels just keep rising. I keep improving. Derek will see how strong I am come Saturday night.

“This is boxing and I’m used to people saying, ‘I’m going to do this or that’ to get into my head. I’ve been around long enough and heard fighters say ‘I’m going to come out banging in the first round,’ and then they come and do something else. So I don’t think Derek himself knows what he’s doing or where he’s going.

“I respect everyone. It’s a tough job getting in the ring. I respect everyone from the journeyman to the world champion of the sport.

“You know me, I do whatever it takes to get the win. I don’t need to get up and shout, ‘I’m going to do this or that.’ I just conserve my energy. I’m relaxed. You guys know what I bring and that I can fight, and I can box, and I can hit. You guys know my power. So I don’t have to sit here and scream about what I’m going to do. There will be blood on Saturday night.”

DEREK CHISORA

“David [Haye] put together the pieces for my training. He didn’t train me, but he sat me down and said, ‘This is what we’re going to do to get what we want to get.’ It’s gone well training-wise and lifestyle-wise. Now it’s time to go to war and have a great fight.

On his table-throwing episode during the last press conference two years ago:

 “I think the tables are screwed down so you won’t have to worry about that. I don’t think I’m going to do that anymore. I do something when I want to do something and now I’m just happy that training’s gone well and everyone’s fine in my camp.

“I’m going to bring the same game I do for every fight and we’re going to come to fight. His coach says that his fighter will be a boxer and all of that. But truly he’s not in the ring and Dillian’s the one that has to fight and he’s going to try to run, or he can meet me in the middle which would be great for me. Whatever game plan they have is fine. We will come in and seek and destroy.

“The first fight was a great fight. The boxing fans loved it. My brain cells didn’t love it but I enjoyed it. We are going to drown him from the get-go. We know he’s fit, but we want to see how fit he is. We’re going to go BOOM from the gates.

“I don’t want this to go to points. I’m going to knock the sucker out. Hundred percent. I’m going to hit him. I’m going to pound him.”

MARK TIBBS, Whyte’s Trainer

“Ninety-nine point nine percent of the time, a good boxer will beat a good brawler. [Dillian] is not only just a good boxer, he’s a boxer-fighter. We will box and fight our way to a very good victory. It ain’t going to be easy, but we will meet him and greet him and beat him to the punch.”

DAVID HAYE, Former Heavyweight Champion and Chisora’s Manager

“I think Derek has always had in him what he needs to be one of the best heavyweights on the planet. He’s had opportunities in the past but hasn’t capitalized on them the best he could and I think he realizes that now. His experiences have taught him that he needs to work hard and make the sacrifices, and that’s what he’s done. He no longer does the things he used to do and when he stands on the scales tomorrow, you’ll be able to see.

“I’m very confident and I know he has the capabilities. I’ve been in there with him, and I’ve felt his power and his presence in the ring. I’ve seen it. The intensity and ferocity I’ve seen in sparring shows that he’s coming for war. I think the first time he didn’t have 12 rounds of war in him. I think this time he does. I think the power Derek brings will make Dillian very uncomfortable, but the fans are going to love it.”

EDDIE HEARN, Head of Matchroom Boxing

“The winner of this fight Saturday night is so important to the global heavyweight scene and so much is at stake.

“I think the crowd is going to be with Chisora. You know the British fans love the underdog. What makes this fight intriguing to the average fan is that these guys are both characters and very entertaining fighters. At the first fight I sat next to Wladimir Klitschko and he said, ‘I don’t think this fight is going to be very good.’ And after three rounds we looked at each other just shaking our heads.

“The Whyte fight is a big fight for Anthony, but I will stress again the one fight we want is with [Deontay] Wilder. We’re talking now. People shouldn’t assume the rematch with Fury is happening because the deal won’t be that easy. It never is for a fight of that size. It all depends really on Wilder; if he wants to be undisputed and if that matters to him. He can fight Fury after if he believes he can beat A.J. We don’t get chances very often to have undisputed champions, and that’s what everyone wants.

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DILLIAN WHYTE vs. DEREK CHISORA FIGHT WEEK MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL To Air Live This Saturday, December 22At 5:00 p.m. ET/2:00 p.m. PT* On SHOWTIME And The Network’s Streaming Service

*PLEASE NOTE NEW TELECAST START TIME

Click HERE For Photos

Photographs are complimentary from Matchroom Boxing for editorial use only. Please credit Jamie McPhilimey/Matchroom

LONDON (December 19, 2018) – Top-rated heavyweight contenders Dillian Whyte and Derek Chisora worked out in front of the media just days before their highly anticipated rematch Saturday, December 22 live on SHOWTIME at 5:00 p.m. ET/2:00 p.m. PT from The O2 in London.

Whyte (24-1, 17 KOs) and Chisora (29-8, 21 KOs) will go toe-to-toe once again in a rematch of one of 2016’s best fights on SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL. The all-British affair between the bitter rivals has been brewing since Whyte narrowly edged Chisora in a back-and-forth slugfest that necessitated a rematch. The stakes are high as both fighters have been working toward world title opportunities against IBF, WBA and WBO Champion Anthony Joshua and WBC Champion Deontay Wilder.

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL coverage will be provided by Sky Sports Box Office with host Brian Custer and Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood. 

Here is what Whyte and Chisora had to say Wednesday from East Wintergarden in London:

DILLIAN WHYTE

“Everybody knows what I come with and what I bring into the ring. We worked on a few new things. We improved in every area. There’s been a lot of talk from him about how he’s given his life to god and he’s got David [Haye] here and all that. We’ll see.

“I’ve changed a lot and improved over the last two years since the last fight. One thing I’ve improved is my consistency. That’s the main thing. I’ve been consistent. I’ve had hard fights, I’ve had boring fights, I’ve had exciting fights but I’ve been consistent.

“The first time I fought him it was only the second time I’ve ever been scheduled for 12 rounds and the time before that I got stopped. I remember the first time I went past five rounds it was like ‘oh crap, this is round six, round seven.’ But now I’ve been there and I’ve done it. I’m experienced and I show different things in different rounds. Even in my last fight, I got put down in the 12th round and got up and did what I had to do to win the fight.”

DEREK CHISORA

“I’m ready for action. The fight is only a couple days away. We are ready to go. I’m excited. Training’s gone well and I’m just a happy guy right now. The big difference with this camp is I’ve given all of the control to David [Haye]. From where I slept, what time I woke up, what I ate, everything.

“We’ve trained hard for this fight. There’s only one way we’re going to go into this fight. We are going to war. Right from the get-go. I’m going to run over to his side and start pounding him down. I hope he’s listening. I’m going to pound you and pound you and pound you. It doesn’t matter what he’s done. He can’t hurt me. He doesn’t have a powerful shot that can bother me. I’m going to find this guy, hunt him down and beat him up.

“I’m born again. I have a new manager and a new training regime. I’m just loving life, basically. It’s working out great for me. As I’ve said before, we have to knock him out. We don’t want to leave it to Eddie [Hearn’s] judges to give him the decision. We have to knock him out. We’re not going to use judges in this fight. We are coming there with a knockout mentality. No points, we’re not coming to box. We’re coming to fight.

“I’m going to go straight at him and I know he’s going to come hard too. He’s not going to shy away from a fight. He knows what’s happening. I’d advise everybody not to sit down at the O2 Arena.”

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SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO PRESENT DILLIAN WHYTE VS. DERECK CHISORA HEAVYWEIGHT REMATCH THIS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL To Air Live At 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT On SHOWTIME And The Network’s Streaming Service

NEW YORK – December 18, 2018 – SHOWTIME Sports will present the highly anticipated rematch between top-rated heavyweight contenders Dillian Whyte and Dereck Chisora this Saturday, December 22 live on SHOWTIME at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT. As with all SHOWTIME programming, the event will air live on air and via the networks’ streaming service.

Whyte (24-1, 17 KOs) and Chisora (29-8, 21 KOs) will go toe-to-toe once again in a rematch of one of 2016’s best fights, live from London’s The O2 on SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL.The all-British affair between the bitter rivals has been brewing since Whyte narrowly edged Chisora in a back-and-forth slugfest that necessitated a rematch. 

“SHOWTIME continues to lead the industry by delivering more of the most compelling boxing events from around the world to our premium cable subscribers and online streaming customers,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, SHOWTIME Sports. “This network has televised all of the most important heavyweight fights during the division’s renaissance and we are proud to join Matchroom Sports in delivering Whyte-Chisora II to our audience. Their first fight was action-packed from bell to bell. Now, with the stakes as high as they have ever been for both men,this bout promises to be even better. I hope that the boxing pundits have not yet cast their vote for Fight, Knockout and Round of the Year. Saturday’s matchup may challenge some of this year’s best.”

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL coverage will be provided by Sky Sports Box Office with host Brian Custer and Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood calling the action. 

The stakes are high in the rematch, as both Whyte and Chisora have been working toward world title opportunities against IBF, WBA and WBO Champion Anthony Joshua and WBC Champion Deontay Wilder. Whyte holds the No. 1 ranking in the WBC and WBO, as well as the WBA’s No. 4 position. Chisora is ranked No. 5 by both the WBA and IBF, as well as No. 9 by the WBC.  Their first matchup was widely regarded as the best heavyweight matchup of 2016, and round five of their “sensational fight” earned Round of the Year honors from ESPN.”