Category Archives: women’s boxing

DETROIT’S DOMONIQUE DOLTON RETURNING TO ACTION NEXT FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 AT MGM GRAND DETROIT

DETROIT (July 27, 2017) – Detroit-based super welterweight contender Domonique Dolton is eager to return to action next weekend and get back in the mix.
 
Dolton (17-1-1, 9 KOs) hasn’t fought in 10 months and hasn’t fought in his home state in nearly seven years, but says manager David Segura, and new trainer Jonathan Banks have him at an all-new level of skill and fitness and ready for the world’s best.
 
He will take on Brockton, Massachusetts, veteran Antonio Chaves Fernandez in a six-round fight on the undercard of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” event on Friday, August 4, at the MGM Grand Detroit.
 
In the night’s main event, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (3-0, 1 KO) will fight for her first world championship against reigning WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany, live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10:30 p.m. ET/PT).
 
In the evening’s co-main event, junior welterweight KO artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will collide with fellow undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) in a 10-round “Someone’s 0 Must Go” showdown at MGM Grand Detroit and live on.
 
To open the telecast, undefeated world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight tough rounds between southpaws.
 
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
I feel really strong,” said Dolton. “I have been sparring with some of the top fighters in Detroit and I have one of the top trainers in the game working with me now, Johnathan Banks. I have all the right people supporting me. I also have one of the top business leaders locally and nationally, David Segura backing me. The sky is the limit.”
 
Dolton says although he’s been out of the ring, he hasn’t been inactive and the results will be apparent in his upcoming performances.
 
“I have been working on my craft, putting time into the gym.  I am at a next level in my career now. I learned from the past and I’m ready to use my skills and experiences to showcase a level of boxing that true fight fans want to see: speed, power, and footwork that has taken me a lifetime to develop. My speed and strength are there and I will showcase this when I am under the lights on August 4.”
 
Manager Segura says he’s happy Dolton is part of the resurgence of professional boxing in Detroit.
 
“As a long-time Detroit business leader, I continue to look for ways to invest in the excitement that is transforming our city. Domonique Dolton is a world-class fighter that the City of Detroit is going to be proud of what he will achieve both in and out of the ring. His foundation was set many years ago under the tutelage of the late Emanuel Steward. We have high aspirations and expectations of the next level Domonique Dolton and it begins on Friday Aug 4th, 2017 at the MGM Detroit. Salita promotions has put together a great card and it will be an historic night in Detroit boxing.”
 
Even promoter Dmitriy Salita says he’s happy to see Dolton looking sharp and ready to return to battle. “Dominique is a product of the Kronk Boxing Gym and Detroit’s great history of fighters. I am happy that he will have an opportunity to showcase his skills in front of his hometown crowd.”
 
Better than ever and ready for the world, Domonique Dolton says he’s ready to fulfill the enormous potential attached to his name for many years.
 
“I will be fighting against a top-ranked contender within the next 12 months. I am going to get very active and create a lot of excitement here in Detroit and for my fans worldwide, as they see me build momentum toward the ultimate goal of being a world champion.”

TWO-TIME GOLD MEDALLIST CLARESSA SHIELDS NAMED #28 OF SPORTING WORLD’S TOP 50 MOST DOMINANT ATHLETES BY AOL

DETROIT (July 10, 2017) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields has been named #28 in AOL’s annual list of the world’s 50 most dominant athletes.
 
Shields came in ahead of top stars from across the world of sports including Connor McGregor and the NBA’s Steph Curry.
 
According to AOL: “Shields lived up to the hype around her at the Rio Olympics, becoming the only American to win back-to-back golds in boxing at the Olympics. Following a dominant amateur career in which she went 77-1, she’s 3-0 with one knockout under her belt in her professional career. She’ll compete for the world title in just her fourth professional bout in August.”
 
On Friday, August 4, at MGM Grand Detroit, Shields (3-0, 1 KO) will fight for her first world championship against reigning WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany. The 10-round match-up will serve as the main event of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST,” and televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10:30 p.m. ET/PT).
 
“I’m thrilled to be among such an elite group of men and women chosen as the most dominant athletes alive,” said Claressa Shields. “I’m particularly proud to join Andre Ward as the only two boxers on the list.”
 
“I’m so proud of Claressa, said her co-manager, Mark Taffet. “What an honor for this 22-year-old trailblazer!  It is a tribute to her unsurpassed talent, dedication and perseverance.  And this story has just begun!”
 
“It’s another amazing accomplishment and recognition for Claressa to be recognized with the top athletes in the world less than a year as a professional athlete,” said her promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “Claressa is on her way to be the face of woman’s sports and her world title challenge against current champion Nikki Adler is a big step in that direction.”
 
To view the entire list, click HERE.
 
In the evening’s co-main event, junior welterweight KO artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will collide with fellow undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) in a 10-round “Someone’s 0 Must Go” showdown at MGM Grand Detroit and live on.
 
To open the telecast, undefeated world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight tough rounds between southpaws.
 
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 69 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Errol Spence Jr. and more.

CLARESSA SHIELDS METEORIC RISE TO STARDOM IN PROFESSIONAL BOXING ANOTHER CHAPTER IN HER HISTORIC JOURNEY

DETROIT (July 25, 2017) – On Friday, August 4, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields will make another significant stop on her historic journey through the sport of boxing.

 
In the 10-round main event of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” event at MGM Grand Detroit and televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10;30 p.m. ET/PT) Shields (3-0, 1 KO) will challenge for her first world title in just her fourth fight against reigning WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany.
 
Already considered a national treasure and award-winning female role model, Shields’ boldly quick world-title quest will catapult her to superstar status and into boxing history once again. By comparison to other female boxing stars from past and present, Shields is way ahead of the curve for a typical rise through the ranks:
 Laila Ali: Won IBA Super Middleweight title in her 12th pro fight
Christy Martin: Won WBC Jr Welterweight title in her 21st pro fight
Lucia Rijker: Won WIBF Super Lightweight title in her 9th pro fight
Regina Halmich: Won IBF Flyweight title in her 10th pro fight
Ann Wolfe: Won IFBA Jr Middleweight title in her 10th pro fight
Cecelia Braekhus: Won WBC Welterweight title in her 11th pro fight
Christina Hammer: Won WBO Middleweight title in her 8th pro fight
Holly Holm: Won IBA Super Lightweight title in her 11th pro fight
 
The historical significance of this fight is not lost on the 22-year-old Flint, Michigan native.
 
“It’s a great honor to be mentioned in the same sentence as Lucia Rijker, Christy Martin, Laila Ali and Ann Wolfe, among others,” said Shields. “I want to lift boxing to new heights and help open doors for women in boxing. Beating Nikki Adler is a must for me to achieve my goals.”
 
Shields’ co-manager, Mark Taffet, says this rocket ship to the top is all part of the plan set out for Shields. “We want every one of Claressa’s fights to occupy a special place along her historic journey. August 4 against Nikki Adler, and the opportunity to win a world title in just her fourth pro fight, is an important ‘first’ in what will be a career of game-changing firsts for Claressa Shields.”
 
In the night’s televised co-main, junior welterweight KO artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will face undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) over 10-rounds and to open the telecast, world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight rounds.
 
Tickets for the event are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They are available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 69 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Errol Spence Jr. and more.

WBC CHAMPION NIKKI ADLER HARD AT WORK TO DEFEND HER BELT AGAINST CLARESSA SHIELDS ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 AT MGM GRAND DETROIT

DETROIT (July 21, 2017) – German WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler is hard at work for her Friday, August 4 title defense against two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields.
 
Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) will make the third defense of her WBC 168-pound title, and try to add the IBF Super Middleweight belt to her collection, against Flint, Michigan’s Shields (3-0, 1 KO) in the 10-round main event of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” event at MGM Grand Detroit and Televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10;30 p.m. ET/PT)
 
In the night’s televised co-main, junior welterweight KO artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will face undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) over 10-rounds and to open the telecast, world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight rounds.
 
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
Adler says the only adjustment to fighting in the North America for the first time is to improve her English. And if she’s concerned about facing Shields, the only American to capture back-to-back boxing gold medals at the Olympic Games, she’s not showing it. She hasn’t even watched tape of Shields’ meteoric three-fight professional career. In fact, Adler and trainer Rene Friese are asking Americans not to take it personally when their hero falters against her.
 
How is training going?
It is going great! I work hard and I am very focused. My trainer is very satisfied with me and my progress. We entered training camp a few weeks ago, already had great tough sparring and I will be very well prepared to defend what’s mine: the green belt.

Did you prepare any differently for this fight compared to your others?
Yes, but it has nothing to do with Claressa. At the beginning of the year, I changed my trainer who brought me and my boxing skills to a new incredible level. I am better, faster and stronger. This feels amazing! 

What do you think of Shields as a fighter?
To be honest, I’ve never watched her fight, but I am sure Claressa is a fighter from the bottom of her heart. So am I. This will create magic moments on August 4

Does it make any difference to fight in North America for the first time?
Yes, because I need to improve my English. I speak German and Croatian fluently and will do my very best to thank Claressa personally for a great fight and to tell her without any translator that she can be proud that she took the challenge and one day she will be a champion too – maybe at middleweight.
 
What would a victory over Claressa Shields mean to you?
17-0

How do you feel about the recent resurgence of women’s boxing?
Our fight announcement rocked the media, the fans and lot of other boxers who want to be a part of the event. It is great to see and it will get better. But, just a warning, America needs to be strong when I take my belts back home to Germany. I said it once before and I will say it again and again: The higher the quality, the more attractive is the fight for the fans. The state of woman’s boxing needs tough woman like Claressa and me who are not afraid of a challenge.

How does it feel to be fighting on Showtime and in front of the world?
It is the biggest woman’s boxing fight in 2017. Winning is the only thing I’m concerned with. 

What can the fans in Detroit and on television expect to see from you? 
Fans will see a fit fighter, they can expect a tough puncher and, finally, a dominating reigning champion.
 
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 69 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Errol Spence Jr. and more.

UNDEFEATED 140-POUNDERS BAKHTIYAR EYUBOV & SONNY FREDRICKSON TO MEET IN CO-FEATURE TO NIKKI ADLER vs. CLARESSA SHIELDS FRIDAY, AUG. 4 ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION

  

Unbeaten Super Bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov to Face Jesse Angel Hernandez in Opening Bout Live on SHOWTIME® (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) From MGM Grand Detroit

 

DETROIT (July 19, 2017) – Junior welterweight knockout artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will face fellow undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) in a 10-round ShoBox: The New Generation co-featured bout Friday, Aug. 4 live on SHOWTIME from MGM Grand Detroit.

 

The match-up will serve as the chief supporting bout of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” – a women’s 10-round super middleweight unification between two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (3-0, 1 KO) and WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs).  Adler vs. Shields is also for the vacant IBF Super Middleweight Title. 

 

In the opening bout of the telecast at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT, undefeated consensus Top-10-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (15-0, 9 KOs), of Russia, will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round matchup of fellow southpaws.

Note: The ShoBox telecast will now begin at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT immediately following the premiere of Episode 1 of ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. McGregor. The start time was previously announced as 10 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available at www.ticketmaster.com. Eyubov vs. Fredrickson is promoted in association with Roc Nation.

 

The 30-year-old Brooklyn-based Eyubov is originally from Aktjubinsk, Kazakhstan.  A charismatic showman, Eyubov is a fast-rising prospect – his fight against Fredrickson will be Eyubov’s third on ShoBox: The New Generation.  He stopped then 16-2-1 Jared Robinson in three rounds in January 2016 and took an exciting 10-round split decision from veteran Karim Mayfield in August 2016.

 

“I simply want to fight the best,” Eyubov said.  “Sonny is a skilled fighter who I know will come to fight. I look forward to putting on a great show for fans at MGM Detroit and those watching on SHOWTIME. Expect a special performance on August 4.”

 

The 22-year-old Fredrickson hails from Toledo, Ohio. Tall and rangy for the weight, Fredrickson stands an imposing 6-foot-2 and has power in both hands. He compiled an outstanding amateur record of 120-8 (60 KOs) and collected numerous accolades, including the 2013 National PAL Bronze Medalist (141 lbs.), the 2013 National Golden Gloves Final Eight (141 lbs.), five Toledo Golden Glove Championships and two Ohio State Junior Olympics Championships.  

 

Fredrickson said, “Going up against another undefeated fighter will be a great opportunity for me to showcase my skills in front of the world  Personally, I feel like I have much to prove and I’m looking forward to making a strong statement against a tough, quality fighter.  I’ve been training hard to get this chance and I’m looking forward to putting together a great performance.”

 

The 27-year-old Tikhonov was born in Grozny and now lives in Saint Petersburg, Russia.  A former decorated amateur boxer, Tikhonov finished with a record of 85-15 and is designated a “Sport Master of Russia,” a prestigious honor bestowed upon the country’s top athletes.  Currently rated No. 9 by the WBA and No. 10 by the IBF and WBO, the southpaw has made his training home in Detroit for this fight.

 

Tikhonov said, “I came to Detroit and am training at the Kronk Gym to round out my camp. Russia has a great school of boxing and I feel very prepared.  With that Kronk Gym magic, the sky is the limit. I can’t wait to show my skills to the world onAugust 4.”

 

The 26-year-old Jesse Angel Hernandez, of Fort Worth, Texas, compiled a 68-6 record as an amateur in Texas before turning pro in 2009.  The southpaw was inactive for five years due to managerial issues and a shortage of local gyms, but has rededicated his career since returning in 2014 and has since remained active.  The 5-foot-8 Hernandez comes from a boxing family and is one of 16 brothers and sisters.  Nine of the boys were boxers and six turned professional, including Jose “El Loco” Hernandez, who scored a draw against former world champion Mickey Bey, and Rodrigo Hernandez, who fought to the only draw with Leo Santa Cruz.

 

Hernandez said, “I will do everything to entertain and make the folks giving me this opportunity proud of their decision to give me this spotlight. I have been doing this since I was a young kid. Boxing runs through my family’s blood, and I’m coming to turn people’s heads, showcase my talent, and show I’m a force to be reckoned with. Catch me throwing bombs on August 4.”

 

Dmitriy Salita, head of Salita Promotions, said, “Both fights are between top contenders with real aspirations for world titles soon.  This is what ShoBox is all about, the best fighting the best.  August 4 is going to be a memorable event, top to bottom, with the birth of new stars in several weight classes.  Detroit, Mich., the birth place of numerous boxing greats, is the perfect location for this night of exciting world-class championship boxing.”

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 69 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Errol Spence Jr. and more.

Claressa Shields Named 2017 ‘Biggest Powerhouse’ in Sports by Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Sports Awards

Budding women’s boxing superstar, community activist, role model and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Claressa Shields has been bestowed with another honor, as she has been announced as the winner of the 2017 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Award for “Biggest Powerhouse.”
In winning the prestigious award, which honors the heaviest hitters, strongest sluggers and unstoppable players in sports each year, Shields beat out a field of such well-known stars as Demarcus Cousins (New Orleans Pelicans), Von Miller (Denver Broncos), David Ortiz (Boston Red Sox) and Mike Trout (Los Angeles Angels).
“It is a tremendous honor and great thrill to win the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Award because it comes from the kids,” said Claressa Shields. “I work hard every day to show all children that nothing in life is impossible if you believe in yourself. If this kid from Flint can win Olympic gold medals, boxing world championships, and succeed in life, then you can do it too!”

Shields’ promoter, Dmitriy Salita, says she deserves all the incredible accolades and honors she’s received.
“Claressa is a true champion of the people with her incredible story of overcoming adversity through her own self-belief and determination. Her accomplishments, inside and outside the ring, make Claressa a real-life American hero and an inspiration to every young person.”
22-year-old Shields (3-0, 1 KO), from Flint, Michigan, is currently in training for her first world-title shot on August 4 against German star and WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs). The 10-round super-middleweight match-up, will be televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10 pm ET/PT), and held at MGM Grand Detroit.
The Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Awards are the only kid-oriented award show focusing on the world’s best athletes and each year’s greatest sports moments. Held at UCLA’s Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles, this year’s broadcast was once again hosted by Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson.

The winners were chosen predominantly by children’s online voting.

“Cancun Boxing” This Saturday night at 8 p.m. and 12 p.m. ET on CBS Sports Network

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Former unified world champion Francisco Rodriguez, Jr. vs. Rolando Gusman in main event
WBC Flyweight World Title Eliminator
CANCUN, Mexico (July 6 2017) – The third installment of the 2017 “Cancun Boxing” series, presented by Pepe Gomez Boxing in association with Neon Star Sports & Entertainment, will air this Saturday night (July 7) in North America, starting at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, on CBS Sports Network. An encore presentation will follow at 12 p.m. ET.

The event took place this past June 3rd at Grand Oasis Cancun the Hotel Complex, Cancun`s ONLY Ultimate All-Inclusive Entertainment Resort, which hosts all series events.

Former IBF/WBO Minimumweight World Champion Francisco “Chihuas” Rodriguez, Jr. (22-4-1, 14 KOs) fought late replacement Rolando “El Duende” Gusman (15-3, 9 KOs), of Argentina, in the 12-round WBC Flyweight World Title Eliminator. Rodriguez’ original opponent, “Lil” Oscar Cantu (14-1, 1 KO), was injured in a car accident only days before the scheduled event.
Rodriguez, 23, won his first world title in 2014, stopping previously unbeaten Merlito Sabillo (23-0-1), the defending WBO minimumweight title fight in Mexico, in the 10thround. Later that same year, Rodriguez successfully defended his WBO crown with a 12-round unanimous decision over IBF minimumweight title holder Katsunari Takayama (27-6) to become unified world champion. Rodriguez vacated both titles in late 2014.
The 23-year-old Rodriguez unsuccessfully challenged WBA Light Flyweight World Champion Donnie Nietes (35-1-4), the reigning IBF flyweight world champion, dropping a 12-round unanimous decision.
Rodriquez, 2-1 in world title fights, is 2-3 vs. past world champions, including the only knockout loss of his career, in 2015, to Roman “Chocolalito” Rodriguez (35-0), the future “Pound-4-Pound King” from Nicaragua.
Gusman is a former Interim WBO Latino Super Flyweight and WBA International bantamweight title challenger.
The eight-round co-feature is a female featherweight rematch between Mexican rivals Jack Calvo (10-2-1, 1 KO) and Yesenia “La Nina” Gomez (13-4-1, 6 KOs). The two fought to a six-round draw this past April on a Cancun Boxing card.
The televised opener is an eight-round, non-title fight between a pair of Mexican lightweights, WBC Latino champion Francisco “Paquito” Rojo (19-2, 12 KOs) and Mexican Pacific Coast titlist Jesus “Kiligua” Velazco (13-9-2, 5 KOs).
CBS Sports Network is available across the country through local cable, video and telco providers and via satellite on DirecTV Channel 221 and Dish Network Channel 158. For more information, including a full programming schedule and how to get CBS Sports Network, go to www.cbssportsnetwork.com
 
INFORMATION
 
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TWO-TIME OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST CLARESSA SHIELDS TO CHALLENGE WBC WORLD CHAMPION NIKKI ADLER IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 4

 Adler & Shields to Unify Women’s Super Middleweight Division in “Battle of the Best” at MGM Grand Detroit Live on SHOWTIME® at 10 p.m. ET/PT

 

DETROIT (June 28, 2017) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields will challenge for her first world title against WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, Aug. 4, live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT from MGM Grand Detroit.

 

A native of Flint, Mich., Shields (3-0, 1 KO) is the most accomplished amateur boxer in U.S. history and the only American to capture back-to-back boxing gold medals at the Olympic Games.  The 22-year-old will challenge for a world title in only her fourth professional fight against fellow undefeated Adler (16-0, 9 KOs), a German star who will make the third defense of her WBC 168-pound title.  The bout will also be for the vacant IBF Super Middleweight Title.

 

Shields is headlining for the second time on national television, building on her history-making debut last March in what was the first women’s main event in premium television history.  If Shields dethrones Adler on ShoBox, she’ll become the 70th world champion in the history of the prospect developmental series.

 

“It’s a huge opportunity to fight in the U.S. on SHOWTIME against Claressa Shields,” Adler said.  “I am the multiple-time world champion and Claressa is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist – why not fight in the biggest matchup possible?  This is a great challenge and we both will show our true potential.  I know I’ll give everything I have to be successful, as I have always done.  I’ve fought throughout the world, but never in the U.S.  It’s really a dream to fight in the biggest women’s boxing event in 2017.

 

Shields said, “It is a dream come true for me to be fighting for a major world title in just my fourth professional fight.  I thank the champ, Nikki Adler, and her team for accepting the challenge and for coming to the U.S. for this championship.   This fight is not only a milestone for me, it also is the biggest fight of the year in women’s boxing.  I want to thank SHOWTIME for their commitment to me and for their support of women’s boxing.  I promise to be in the best shape of my life and to give all my fans a performance to remember.”

 

Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available at www.ticketmaster.com.

 

Gordon Hall, ShoBox: The New Generation Executive Producer and SVP of Production, SHOWTIME Sports, said, “ShoBox is about challenging prospects and making step up fights, and that’s what Shields vs. Adler is all about.  Claressa is returning to ShoBox in a unique opportunity to not only face her toughest opponent to date but to challenge a world champion and look to unify the division in only her fourth fight. The matchup and stakes speak for themselves. We are proud to continue to deliver the best prospects in competitive matchups.”

 

Promoter Dmitriy Salita, said, “I am thrilled to be promoting what I expect will be the biggest women’s boxing event of 2017.  Claressa Shields is on a quest to make history and is seeking to become a world champion in only her fourth professional bout less than a year after winning her second Olympic Gold Medal.  Shields vs. Adler is the kind of matchup we expect from great fighters.  These two women, both skilled, both determined, are certain to give fans around the world, and those watching on ShoBox, an action-packed fight that is fought at the highest level.  It will be a night to remember where the sports world may see the emergence of a new star.”

 

Shields’ co-manager, Mark Taffet, said, “This second main event telecast on SHOWTIME represents yet another historic step forward in the journey of Claressa Shields.  Claressa is committed, in return, to pursuing the biggest and best fights available as the profile of women’s boxing in the U.S. and around the world continues to grow.  This world title fight against Nikki Adler, a monumental challenge for Claressa in only her fourth pro fight, shows how committed Claressa is to fulfilling her dreams and leading the sport to unprecedented levels.”

 

The 30-year-old Adler, a Croatian fighting out of Augsburg, Bayern, Germany, will make her U.S. debut against Shields.  A former German amateur champion, Adler will make her third defense of the WBC crown she won in 2013 via unanimous decision against Zane Brige in Russia.

 

In 2015, Adler defeated Szabados via unanimous decision in her first defense of the WBC belt, and knocked out Elene Sikmashvili in her second defense in 2016.  In March of this year, she won the vacant WIBF and GBU World Super Middleweight Championships by unanimous decision over Mery Rancier.

 

Shields compiled an amateur record of 77-1 record and won her first Olympic Gold when she was only 17 years old in the inaugural women’s boxing competition at the London Games in 2012.  She won a second gold medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio and turned professional three months later.

 

In March 2017 at MGM Grand Detroit, Shields stopped Hungary’s Szilvia Szabados in four rounds to win the NABF Super Middleweight Championship, in the first women’s main event in premium television history.  In her most recent bout on June 16, Shields defeated Sydney LeBlanc via a unanimous eight-round decision to capture the WBC Silver Super Middleweight title.

 

Active in her community, Shields advocates for several social issues and serves as an inspirational figure in her hometown of Flint, a city beset by problems.

 

Undercard bouts for the ShoBox telecast will be announced in the coming weeks.

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 69 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Errol Spence Jr. and more.

Claressa Shields Dominates to Win WBC Silver Belt, Sets Detroit Brawl Gate Record; Has Sights on World Championship Next

Photos by Boy Ryder

In just her first eight-round fight, Claressa “T-Rex” Shields scored a spectacular unanimous decision victory last Friday, June 16, at the Masonic Temple in Detroit to win the WBC Silver Super Middleweight Title. 

 
Shields (3-0, 1KO) dominated tough Sydney “Ginger the Ninja” LeBlanc (4-2-1), winning all eight rounds on all three judges’ scorecards en route to adding the WBC Silver belt to her NABF Middleweight Championship belt. LeBlanc was simply no match for the blazing fists of crowd favorite Shields, who has convincingly established herself as a world championship-class contender in women’s boxing after just three professional fights.
 
Shields’ bout was the main event of a jam-packed Detroit Brawl event which set a new gate record for promoter Dmitriy Salita’s popular Detroit-based series.  
  

“Claressa is one of the best boxers in the world!” said Dmitriy Salita. “Regardless of gender, her skills and experience are that of the elite fighters in the world. She is improving with each fight and the sky is the limit. Claressa is ready for the top fighters in her division and we will work on making a big championship fight happen next.” 

 
In the 10-round co-main event, transplanted Detroit cruiserweight Alexey Zubov moved to 15-1, 9 KOs with a surprisingly easy 10-round decision over Detroit’s highly regarded Demetrius Banks (9-1, 4 KOs).
 
From the opening bell, the superior work rate of Zubov told the story, as the confused Banks had no answers for the big Russian’s jab. All three judges scored the fight 99-91. There were no knockdowns.
 
“Two of the best cruiserweight prospects in the world met in Detroit,” continued Salita. “The winner is now a real contender, ready to fight the best in the world. Alexey is much improved since his time training with Sugar Hill at the Kronk Boxing Gym. The magic of Kronk is alive and came to life in Alexey’s performance. Great things on the horizon for him!”
 
Another of Salita’s growing stable of promising contenders, Detroit bantamweight Ja’Rico O’Quinn (7-0, 5KOs) had too many tools for the outgunned David Martino (2-3, 2 KOs) and won by dominant unanimous decision (60-54, all three judges). A talent to watch, O’Quinn basically walked the determined Martino into his lightning-fast shots for six rounds.
 
“Ja’Rico’s defense was superb in his fight. His opponent was rarely able to even touch him. He is going to be a force at 118 lbs. in the not-too-distant future.”
Another surging contender from the Salita stable, junior welterweight wrecking ball Bakhtiyar Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) needed just 1:41 of round one to chew up and spit out Mexico’s Cesar Soriano. Eyubov targeted the body of Soriano and took away his breath with thudding left hoods to the liver that ended things quickly. Eyubov is an animal.
 
“Bakhtiyar went up a weight class because no one will fight him. This fight showed why,” said Salita. “He is too strong for most fighters to stay in with for very long. He will be in a big fight in the near future. He’s ready.”
 
In other results, Michigan’s Antonio Urista (8-2, 2 KOs), pulled off a surprising upset with a six-round unanimous decision (59-53 and 58-54 and 58-54) over Turkmenistan’s Serdar Hudayberdiyev (3-1, 2 KOs). Urista dropped Hudayberdiyev with a looping right hand and he never fully recovered. Both fighters suffered cuts in this rugged affair.
 
To open the show, Michigan light heavyweight Darren Gibbs (1-2, I KO) picked up his first professional victory with a 30-second TKO1 over debuting Scott McCurdy; Jacob Bonas (3-0-1, 2 KOs) scored a TKO3 over Tony Brooks (1-2) and Dimash Niyazov (10-0-3, 5 KOs) stayed undefeated with a fifth-round TKO over a surprisingly determined Ramon Guevara (10-24-2, 6 KOs).
 
“Thank you to everyone involved in this terrific show,” said Dmitriy Salita. “The fans of Michigan asked for world-class boxing and they’ve responded by filling the Masonic Temple. And thank you to all my great sponsors for all their help and congratulations to all the fighters for their brave performances. It is onward and upward for Claressa Shields, who will be back later this summer against a world-class fighter. Clearly, she is ready for anyone in the world.”
 
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For more information on the “Detroit Brawl” or Salita Promotions, visit www.salitapromotions.com. Facebook and Twitter: @DetroitBrawl 

Sydney LeBlanc Steps in to Face Two-Time Gold Medalist Claressa Shields for WBC Silver Super Middleweight Championship at Detroit Brawl, Looking for an Upset this Friday

Sydney “Ginger the Ninja” LeBlanc is stepping in on three days’ notice to face Women’s NABF Middleweight Champion, Claressa “T-Rex” Shields of Flint, Michigan, in the eight-round main event of Salita Promotions’ “Detroit Brawl” this Friday, June 16, 2017, at the Masonic Temple in Detroit.
33-year-old LeBlanc (4-1-1) from Gretna, Louisiana, represents a step up in competition from original opponent Mery Rancier, who was unable to participate due to visa issues. A six-year pro who was already in training for a fight on June 10, LeBlanc says she’s eager for the chance to upset the two-time Olympian and budding women’s superstar Shields.
“I’ve been pro boxing for nine years, since before the Olympics had a women’s division and I’ve taken a lot of time off because of a lack of available opponents,” explained LeBlanc. “These Olympians are reopening the gates for all female fighters. Everybody was on the shelf for years. This is the first time female boxing has been popular since the Ann Wolfe days, so I’m very appreciative of the opportunities they are bringing. I’ve never watched any of my opponents before a fight, but I know about Claressa Shields and I want to fight her. I’m looking at this fight as a good chance to see where I’m at, skill-wise and I’ll be ready.”
Shields vs. LeBlanc will be contested for the WBC Silver Super Middleweight Championship.
Once again sponsored by the Greektown Casino Hotel, tickets for “Detroit Brawl” are priced at VIP $200, Box Seats are $100 and $55, Seating is $40, and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets and Ticketmaster.com.
 
In the 10-round co-main event, undefeated Detroit cruiserweight Demetrius Banks (9-0, 4 KOs) will take on Detroit via Russia’s Alexey Zubov (14-1, 9 KOs).
 
In the night’s main supporting bout, undefeated welterweight pulverizer Bakhtiyar Eyubov (12-0, 10 KOs) of Aktjubinsk, Kazakhstan, will look to stay busy waiting for his next high-profile step, as he attempts to inflict his crowd-pleasing style on always-tough Cesar Soriano (27-35-1, 16 KOs) Iztacalco, Mexico, over six rounds.
In another of the chief supporting bouts, Detroit’s rising talent and “Great Lakes King” Ja’Rico O’Quinn (6-0, 5 KOs) returns to action in a six-round bantamweight brawl against David Martino (2-2, 2 KOs) of San Felipe, Mexico.
Also scheduled is an all-action six-round super welterweight battle between Antonio Urista (7-2, 2 KOs) of Lansing, Michigan, and highly decorated former amateur star Serdar Hudayberdiyev (3-0, 2 KOs) of Turkmenabat, Turkey.
Opening the night will be a six-round super lightweight tilt between Staten Island, New York via Kazakhstan’s Dimash Niyazov (10-0-3, 4 KOs) and Grand Rapids, Michigan, veteran Ramon Guevara (10-24-2, 6 KOs); as well as a four-round welterweight bout between undefeated Jacob Bonas (2-0-1, 1 KO) of Bellville, Michigan, and Clinton Township, Michigan’s Tony Brooks (1-1).
On fight night, doors open at 7:00 pm and the fights begin at 8:00 pm.
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For more information on the “Detroit Brawl” or Salita Promotions, visit www.salitapromotions.com. Facebook and Twitter: @DetroitBrawl