Tag Archives: Adam Kownacki

Robert Guerrero Training Camp Quotes & Photos

 
Former World Champion Meets Unbeaten Omar Figueroa in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, July 15 from NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island
 
Click HERE for Photos from Andy Samuelson/Premier Boxing Champions
 
GILROY, CA. (July 5, 2017) – Former world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero is hard at work preparing for his main event showdown with unbeaten Omar Figueroa that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, July 15 in the first boxing event at the newly renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features a matchup of unbeaten light heavyweights Marcus Browne and Seanie Monaghan plus an all-Polish heavyweight showdown between Artur Szpilka and Adam Kownacki.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visitingwww.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.
See below for what Guerrero had to say about training camp, his July 15 showdown and more:
On his recent training camp:
“I feel great going into this fight. Me and my dad have been working really hard on all aspects of my game. I hired a new CrossFit coach, Greg Amundson, and he’s gotten me in great shape. Everyone will see an improvement in my all-around game. With my back against the wall going into this fight, I did everything possible in camp to be ready for Figueroa.”
On facing another undefeated fighter in Omar Figueroa:
“I’m always looking to battle the best possible fighters out there and Omar Figueroa is no different. He’s undefeated and looking to take his career to the next level but I have other plans. Figueroa has a come forward style that I’ll be prepared for. Stylistically, we both like to go for it so fans should expect to see a lot of hard shots being thrown in this fight. It’s going to be a war.”
On fighting in front of a national TV audience on FOX & FOX Deportes:
“Fighting on FOX and FOX Deportes again is going to be incredible and I can’t wait to let my hands go and give the fans the entertainment they deserve. This fight is going to be one those fights where everyone will be on the edge of their seat. The fans deserve to see non-stop action from the opening bell, and this is going to be that type of battle. Everyone tuning in will witness a great action-packed fight.”
On traveling to New York to fight in front of the east coast fans:
“This will be my second time fighting on the east coast. The fans out there love boxing so I’m expecting a rowdy crowd. I love that we are fighting on neutral territory.  I just want to put on a great show and come out victorious with my hands raised.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsportsand www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

Welterweight Jamal James Battles Former Title Challenger Jo Jo Dan in Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Action Saturday, July 15 from NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island

 
Plus! Unbeaten Prospect Brandon Figueroa Faces Eliezer Aquino in Bantamweight Matchup
 
Coverage Begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT Following
PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Telecast
 
LONG ISLAND, NY (June 29, 2017) – Once-beaten welterweight Jamal James (20-1, 9 KOs) will meet former title challenger Jo Jo Dan (36-4, 19 KOs) in a 10-round showdown featured on Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, July 15 at the newly-renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
Televised coverage on FS1 begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, immediately following the PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes show headlined by a welterweight brawl between former world champions Omar Figueroa and Robert Guerrero.
The FS1 show will also see unbeaten prospect Brandon Figueroa (12-0, 8 KOs) competing on his older brother Omar’s undercard as he takes on Eliezer Aquino (19-2-1, 13 KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight attraction.
“I’m excited to be able to get back in the ring on July 15,” said James. “I’m grateful to have the team that I have so that I could fight on this great card in Long Island on FS1 and FOX Deportes. I’ve been training hard and I’m hungry and anxious to get back in the ring and show off my skills.”
“I am back at welterweight for my fight on July 15 and I plan on putting on a good performance so that I can get back in the mix for a world title shot,” said Dan. “I am having a great training camp at the Grant brothers’ gym in Montreal and I’ll be in top shape on fight night. My team and I are thrilled to be part of this event that brings big-time boxing back to Long Island.”
Televised coverage on FOX and FOX Deportes begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten light heavyweights Marcus Browne and Seanie Monaghan in a 10-round bout and a showdown between Polish heavyweights Artur Szpilka and Adam Kownacki.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visitingwww.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.
A tall welterweight at 6’2″, James looks to bounce back after a decision loss to Yordenis Ugas last August in which the 28-year-old accepted the fight on less than a week’s notice. Fighting out of Minneapolis, Minnesota, James was unbeaten in his first 20 fights as a pro including impressive victories over Javier Molina and Wale Omotoso that began his 2016 campaign.
Born in Romania, Dan fights out of Quebec, Canada and has picked up victories in two of his three stateside fights. A pro since 2004, Dan was unbeaten in his first 26 professional starts. He owns two impressive victories over Canadian rival Kevin Bizier and challenged Kell Brook for his welterweight title in 2015. Dan fought twice at 154-pounds, including a challenge of now world champion Jarrett Hurd, before moving back down in weight and scoring a fifth-round stoppage of Jesus Gurrola in March.
The 20-year-old Brandon Figueroa turned pro in May of 2015 by defeating Hector Gutierrez and followed that up by stopping Ricardo Mena, Ramiro Ruiz and Francisco Muro to close out the year. The Weslaco-native stayed busy in 2016, picking up six victories, including five by way of stoppage before starting 2017 with a fourth-round stoppage of Raul Chirino in February and an eight-round decision of Luis Saavedra in May. On July 15 he will fight on the undercard of his brother Omar for the third time.
Fighting out of Higuey, Dominican Republic, Aquino has fought professionally since 2007 and was unbeaten in his first 18 pro bouts. The 30-year-old has previously fought twice in the U.S. heading into this showdown on July 15. Aquino enters this bout having won his last two bouts by way of stoppage.
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepagewww.foxdeportes.comwww.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes.www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.
 

Artur Szpilka vs. Adam Kownacki Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
Polish Heavyweight Showdown Featured on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, July 15 from NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
&
HERE for Photos from the Fan Meet & Greet from
Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment (Photos to be added shortly)
 
BROOKLYN (June 28, 2017) – Former title challenger Artur Szpilka and unbeaten Adam Kownacki squared-off for the first time at a press conference in Brooklyn Wednesday as they prepare for their Polish heavyweight showdown featured on Premier Boxing Champions onFOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, July 15 in the first boxing event at the newly-renovatedNYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by a welterweight brawl between former world champions Omar Figueroa and Robert Guerrero plus a matchup of unbeaten light heavyweights Marcus Browne and Seanie Monaghan.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visitingwww.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.
Szpilka and Kownacki spoke to press at Krolewski Jadlo Restaurant in Greenpoint, Brooklyn before heading to Johnny’s Café in Queens for a meet and greet with fans.
Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:
ARTUR SZPILKA
“Everything has been different this training camp. I’m focused on training for Adam Kownacki. I’ve lost some weight and I feel faster. Everything is feeling perfect.
“I want to show the world and my country that what happened in the Wilder fight was an accident. I feel ready and I can’t wait.
“The sparring has been perfect for this camp. I have two great sparring partners who are giving me different looks and getting me ready for Adam. I’m glad that I’ve been pushed really hard in sparring.
“I’m not worried about fighting in his hometown. I’m only focused on the man who is in front of me. It’s my job to go in there and take care of the man trying to knock me out.
“I have heard the talk from Kownacki about my chin, but there is nothing that he can say once we’re in the ring. On July 15 everyone will see my power and it will verify that I am the better fighter.
“We have talked a lot today, but on July 15 only our fists can talk and I can’t wait to perform in front everyone. I will show the whole world that I am ready for another shot at the world title.”
ADAM KOWNACKI
“I’m feeling great right now. I was in Poland for four weeks to spar with Tomasz Adamek and I think that helped me a lot. Now I’m back here with my team to finish up camp and work on preparing for a tough southpaw.
“I think I’ll be able to control my emotions on fight night. This is another fight in my long career. I have to go and do my best. This is a big step on my way to becoming a world champion and making my dreams come true.
“I think that styles make fights. My style is perfect for his style. I come forward and bring pressure and he’s been dropped so many times, I think his chin is probably gone. It’s hard to recuperate from a knockout like he had against Wilder.
“We’ve been working on everything we can in the gym. Knowing how to cut off the ring against a lefty is definitely very important. I’m getting better every day and with every sparring session. I’ll be ready on July 15.”
“This is a big chance for me to shine. I wish Artur all the success in the world, but it’s my time right now. July 15 you will see a great fight.”
RONNIE SHIELDS, Szpilka’s Trainer
“Artur is at the level where he’ll fight anybody in the world. We know how god Adam is. It’s going to be skill against skill.
“Training camp has been going great for Artur. He’s been having some really good sparring with some strong fighters who can simulate what Adam is going to do.
“Szpilka is in great shape right now, he’s ready to go. We’re going to make sure he doesn’t make the same mistake from the Wilder fight. He’s watched the tape and he knows what to do.”
KEITH TRIMBLE, Kownacki’s Trainer
“I’m thankful that Adam has this opportunity. I grew up on Long Island so it’s a dream come true to be a part of this event.
“This is going to be a great fight for the fans. The way people get behind their soccer teams, we will see that on July 15 from the Polish fans. It’s going to be a hell of a night.
“Adam is training so hard and he’s ready to go the distance. We’re ready for a war. Artur fought for a title recently so we couldn’t ask for a better fight. If we get this win, there are big things ahead for us.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“It’s great to be here in Greenpoint where there is such a great Polish population and they understand the significance of this fight. This is the biggest fight you could make between two Polish heavyweights.
“Artur was a lifelong resident of Poland, who now has ties in Houston training with Ronnie Shields, while Adam is on the rise as an American Polish kid from Brooklyn and now living on Long Island. This is the first time in 31 years that there will be a big show on Long Island. Anybody that knows boxing knows that this is going to be a great fight.
“The winner of this fight is right there contending in the heavyweight division. Artur fought a great fight against Deontay Wilder before getting caught. They’re both warriors. This is a chance for Adam to prove himself. This fight has been brewing for a long time and there is a lot of pride at stake here.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepagewww.foxdeportes.com,
www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes.www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

HEAT, INTENSITY AND FOCUS: OMAR FIGUEROA TRAINING CAMP NOTES FROM INDIO, CA

Former World Champion Figueroa and Renowned Trainer Joel Diaz Set a Course to July 15 Showdown Against Robert Guerrero

Figueroa Finds Renewed Focus Amidst 118-Degree Desert Heat
 
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes
 live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT Saturday, July 15 from
NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Greene/Premier Boxing Champions
Indio, CA (June 26, 2017) – South Texas’s Omar “El Panterita” Figueroa, a former lightweight world champion, heads into training camp on a balmy 118-degree day in Indio, CA, home to his trainer Joel Diaz and his new boxing home-base since January. Figueroa re-enters the boxing ring on Saturday, July 15 when he takes on former multiple-division world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero in the 147-pound main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in the first boxing event at the newly-renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
The break that Figueroa took saw him embracing his Weslaco, Texas home, which sits right on the border to Mexico. It was a reset that had been coming for a fighter who fought in both Mexico and the U.S. as an amateur before turning pro after his first semester in college.
“Boxing is a very jealous sport. You do it 100% or you don’t do it at all,” said Figueroa explaining his 18-month break from the ring. “After my last fight I felt that I needed a break – time to be a father, a son, a brother and a friend. I needed the time to heal my body, mind and soul. I fought with broken hands, I fought world-class athletes; having fought since I was 6, I wanted to take a break and just be human. So I took a year off to heal from the injuries, be with my family and friends, be a father and just be me.”
It’s a break that Diaz, who Figueroa first trained with three years ago, agrees with. The two made a plan during his break to have the young fighter come from his Weslaco, TX home to California for an extended training period in preparation for his next fight, as well as set up his camp.
“It’s necessary to take time off,” said Diaz. “Sometimes fighters work too hard in training or in the action that they bring to the fights. Omar is the type of fighter that brings a lot of action to his fights and it takes a toll on his body. He’s an all-out fighter so he needs that time off to recuperate and restart himself. This break in his body and mind helped him recover from that strain so that he could come back and start fresh again. “
Figueroa faces a tough opponent in Robert Guerrero when he steps back in the ring. Not only is Figueroa fighting above his normal weight-class, but he’s also fighting a former world champion across multiple weight-classes known to be a tough and cunning opponent.
“Guerrero is one of the toughest challenges for any boxer. He is a tough fighter, he doesn’t back down and he doesn’t quit,” said Figueroa. “You have to go into the fight knowing it’ll go the full 12 rounds and there won’t be any easy moment in the fight. But I’m prepared for that, it’s what I’ve been training for and it’s who I am.
“I’m excited and grateful to be part of bringing boxing back to the Nassau Veterans Coliseum and I plan to set a high standard. When you have fights in this arena, you know they are going be memorable,” added Figueroa.
See below for additional quotes from Figueroa and Diaz:
Omar Figueroa quotes:
On changing camp to Indio, CA and working with Joel Diaz:
January 1 I was back in the boxing mode. Training, running, focusing on diet and getting ready and into camp. The break has given me more focus and the opportunity to change my camp up.
“I am back training with Joel Diaz in Indio, CA and have been going back to Texas to see my family. My dad will always be my father and a big part of my career, but I felt that when I ended my break, I wanted to change my program and go back to Joel. This is our first fight back and I’m looking forward to it in many ways.”
On training camp:
“My health and the time training have been great. I’m getting more and more excited for the fight as I’m getting prepared for it. It’s on my mind.
“I’m older, I’m wiser, I have been through this before and know what not to do. It’s the wisdom that comes with experience.”
On taking time off:
“It bought me the tranquility and peace of mind that I’m good, I’m healthy, I’m ready for this. This is what I want. I was missing this. I’ve never been more mentally ready for a fight than now.”
On his future:
“I don’t plan ahead; I don’t look to next fights. I look at the now and think about future fights after this one. I want to make sure I’m healthy.
“I don’t get ahead of myself with boxing. I am a boxer, a former world champion, I love and believe in the power of this sport, but I don’t let it rule my life.”
On training with his brother, Brandon Figueroa, in Indio:
“It helps me, we push each other. My family is very competitive so it helps to have someone like that training with me. It helps to have Brandon here as well as my cousins; we push each other to the limits.  We live together, we train together, and we make sure we are the best we can be.”
On fighting for the first time in New York and his expectations:
“This is my first time fighting in New York, I expect the New York crowd to be ready for a good fight, because that’s what they’ll see from me.
“I want to be known for good shows. It’s what we get paid to do as fighters. I showcase the technical side of boxing and add a lot of entertainment behind how I fight, so that’s what the fans get.”
The role that Mexico, Texas and California play in his career;
“I feel like I get the best of all the worlds. I love Mexico – I go there all the time; I plan to go there after the fight. I love California, it’s taught me a lot, the people, the culture, the boxing here is phenomenal; and obviously Texas is where I grew up and it’s made me who I am.  I love the opportunities that I get and the things I get to do, who I get to do it with and where I get to do it. “
Joel Diaz, Figueroa’s Trainer:
 
On Training Camp:
“Training camp has been going great, we’ve had no problems like we have had in previous camps with injuries. His hands are healthy, his weight is good and overall he’s healthy. I think the layoff he took helped him a lot, he wants to get back in it and you can tell he’s motivated. It’s a great camp, great atmosphere and that’s what matters.”
On what he’s focusing on:
“Omar Figueroa is a fighter. He’s never going to change. My job is not to change him but make him better. He has a unique style that shows to everyone he’s a very effective puncher and it’s my job to get him in the right condition so he gets hit less, because he’s a risk taker. You wont see much change on the style, you’ll see the same action Omar that people want to see.”
On training both brothers
“They push each other; Omar being the oldest really pushes his brother. They train in two different weight classes and it’s good that they see the work they do amongst each other. They push each other in conditioning and in the ring. It’s good having them together.”
On his role as trainer:
“I’m in this sport for the fighters, my pride and my work. I take a lot of pride in what I do and I am not trying to fight for a trophy nor am I in it for myself. I’m in it for my fighters. This is work and I’m here to take full responsibility for the fighters in my program. I’m here to make my fighters champions in life, not just the ring.
“It took me years of hard work and effort, and now that I’m here I have to work harder, keep my same values and work to stay there.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes is headlined by a matchup between exciting former world champions Omar “Panterita” Figueroa and Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero on Saturday, July 15 in the first boxing event at the newly-renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. July 15 will also be the first boxing event at the Coliseum since Mike Tyson headlined in 1986.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.FOXsports.com/presspass/homepagewww.FOXdeportes.comwww.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/FOXsports and www.facebook.com/FOXdeportes. www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

Marcus Browne vs. Seanie Monaghan Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, July 15 from NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
LONG ISLAND, NY (June 6, 2017) – Unbeaten light heavyweight contenders Marcus Browneand Seanie Monaghan went face-to-face Tuesday at a press conference to discuss their all-New York showdown taking place Saturday, July 15 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX andFOX Deportes action live from the newly-renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, the first live boxing card on Long Island since 1986.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by a matchup between exciting former world champions Omar “Panterita” Figueroa and Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero plus Artur Szpilka meets Adam Kownacki in an all-Polish heavyweight showdown that promises fireworks.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visitingwww.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.
Also in attendance at Tuesday’s press conference were local Long Island favorites Tommy Rainone (26-7-1, 6 KOs), Alicia Napoleon (7-1, 5 KOs), Patrick Day (13-2-1, 6 KOs) andVincenzo D’Angelo (2-0).
Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday from the JetBlue Overlook the Coliseum:
MARCUS BROWNE
“Everyone knows that we know each other. But the buddy-buddy talk is out of the window. This is a fight. We both have kids to feed. I have a destiny that is already written, and Seanie is in the way of that.
“Come July 15, my feelings about Seanie won’t mean a thing. I’m going to have to win. I know this guy trains like a dog and he’s no pushover. All that sparring and stuff you’ve heard about doesn’t’ mean a thing, it’s just going to be me and him and I have to win.
“I can’t wait to go to work. I’ve fought my friends before and at the end of the day it’s business. I’m going to become a world champion and no one is stopping me.
“I was raised defense-first by Gary Stark Sr. We are defensive specialist. I’m going to show everything that I have in my arsenal.
“Seanie and I came up in the amateurs and won Golden Gloves on the same night. We have history but it means nothing as of today and on July 15. This isn’t sparring, there are no do-overs.
July 15 is going to be fireworks. These undercard fighters are amazing and it’s a fantastic card for Long Island. I’m just blessed to be able to show my talents in this building. I wish I could wake up tomorrow and it would be fight day. We aren’t friends on July 15. Staten Island is coming out on top over Long Island.”
SEANIE MONAGHAN
“I’ve been chipping away at a title fight for a long time. When they asked me about Marcus, I first was thinking that it wasn’t the fight I wanted. At this point in the game, it’s may the best man win.
“Training has been going great. We might have to pull back a little bit because we already did a five-week training camp when I thought I was fighting Adonis Stevenson, which turned out to be a good thing. He’s a southpaw just like Marcus so we were already sparring with a lot of really good southpaws.
“Marcus does everything well. He’s fast, he’s slick and he punches pretty hard. I like to fight and come forward and make it that kind of rough style on fight night.
“I’ve mastered the ability to control my emotions on fight night. I’m a professional in my 29th fight so it’s not my first time at the rodeo. This is strictly business, it’s my time.
“I definitely want Adonis Stevenson if I can get by Marcus. That’s the fight everybody wants. I want to be a world champion and I will be a world champion one day.
“This is a dream come true to fight at this venue. This is going to be the biggest night of my life. It’s do-or-die for me.”
TOMMY RAINONE
“I’m very thankful to Lou for giving me the opportunity. I’ve fought on a lot of great cards at a lot of great venues. But being a Long Island boy who has come to this venue my entire life and to be a part of brining this kind of event back to long island is a dream come true.
“Being on this card and having this venue here is all the motivation I need. I’m going to be in great shape on July 15 and do my part and handle business.”
ALICIA NAPOLEON
“I am so glad to be here, especially being from Long Island. It’s a wonderful feeling to be on this great card. We’re going to make Long Island proud.
“The last time they had boxing here was the year I was born. It’s almost destined that I was going to be first woman to fight at this venue for a world title.
“I’m thankful that I have an opportunity to showcase women’s boxing, because we’re not just fighters, we’re athletes. We sacrifice just as much and I’m excited for this fight.”
PATRICK DAY
“I live 15 minutes away and the fact that there is an arena of this magnitude in my hometown, it really means a lot. It feels like it’s meant to be and I’m going to enjoy it.
“The Long Island boxing scene is on the rise. With this Coliseum being renovated, it’s like a Long Island Barclays Center. The scene here will become even more competitive as time goes on.
“I like to box. I’m a pure boxer. I stick and move hit and don’t get hit. I’m not going to fight down to anyone’s level, I’m going to fight at my level.”
VINCENZO D’ANGELO
“I’m just excited to be here and back in the ring. I have a lot of friends fighting on this show and I can’t wait for all of us to show our skills. There are a lot of great boxers on this show.
“I’m preparing to put on a great performance for the fans and get another win under my belt onJuly 15. I’m going to make it a memorable debut in my hometown.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“It’s thrilling to me to be able to promote the first show at Nassau Coliseum in 31 years. The last event featured Mike Tyson and we have a terrific card on July 15 that represents the best fighters from Long Island, plus three fights that can stand on their own featuring fighters that deserve to be there.
“The undercard will be very representative of Long Island. It will be consistent with what we’ve always done as far as promoting cards that are exciting from the minute the doors open through the final bell.
“I’m thrilled that this is on FOX and FOX Deportes and that everyone will be able to see this building rock on July 15. I’m also thrilled with the kind of show they’re getting. What you have is a consistent few hours of unbelievable action. All three of these fights are wars.
“Seanie has been working his way up and just winning fight after fight. He’s been looking for a title shot for a long time. Marcus came into the pros with a lot of noise, but he’s kept winning at every step. This is going to be a really good fight and I don’t think it’s going the distance. You can bank on the fact that the winner of this fight will get a shot at the light heavyweight championship of the world.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“When we envisioned recreating the Coliseum, the goal was to fuel it with world class programming and I think we’ve done that. We’ve had world class artists, the end of a great run of the circus and in the month of July we will host Brooklyn Boxing on Long Island.
“We’ve had the opportunity to host incredible boxing events in Brooklyn and now we can do it in Long Island. It’s about being able to be somewhat aspirational. The fight community can grow up dreaming of fighting here in the Coliseum. I’m thrilled we can do that for Seanie and the other fighters on the undercard.
“It’s been 31 years since we last had a fight here at the Coliseum and it’s a thrill to bring it back with some great people.  The building is for the community and this will be the first of many boxing events that we host here.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepagewww.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes.www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

News From Gleason’s Gym

  1. Heather “The Heat” Hardy will make her MMA debut at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, June 24th.

Heather is a two sport woman. She is the WBC International Female Featherweight Champion with a 20-0-0 record. Purchase tickets at Gleason’s Gym or at  www.heather-hardy.com/events

2. Sonya “The Scholar” Lamonakis Sonya Lamonakis 10-2-2 will be boxing June 10 in Worcester Massachusetts at the DCU for the UBF WORLD TITLE. Tickets are $45 if interested please call 6468950890.
3. 31 Years Later, Boxing Returns to the Coliseum on July 15
After a 31-year absence, professional boxing returns to NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum with PBC on FOX on July 15, 2017. Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment proudly announces the first professional boxing match at the Coliseum since Mike Tyson knocked out Steve Zouski on March 10, 1986.
Opening night of Brooklyn Boxing On Long Island will be headlined by a welterweight battle between former champions
Omar Figueroa and Robert Guerrero. Long Island favorite Seanie Monaghan will face Staten Island’s Marcus Browne in a collision of undefeated light heavyweights. The card also includes a heavyweight brawl between Artur Szpilka and Adam Kownacki.
Tickets are on sale now.
4. USA Boxing Alumni Association   USA Boxing is establishing a formal USA Boxing Alumni Association.  The goal is to increase the relationships amongst fellow alumni and with USA Boxing as a whole.  In order to launch this association, they need to collect a sufficient amount of responses form their survey.  If we achieve a certain response rate, we’ll get the funding we need from the donors. Please take five minutes and complete this survey. It will only be up for two weeks.   http://www.teamusa.org/USA-Boxing/Features/2017/May/24/USA-Boxing-Needs-Your-Help

GLEASON’S INTERNATIONAL MASTER TOURNAMENT June 15-17, 2017

15th Annual Gleason’s Fantasy Camp August 10 through 13, 2017

Exciting Night of Action With Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Featured Saturday, July 15 Live in Primetime from NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island  

Former World Champions Omar Figueroa & Robert Guerrero Meet in Welterweight Brawl
 
Undefeated Contender Marcus Browne Faces Unbeaten Long Island Favorite Seanie Monaghan in Light Heavyweight Clash
 
All-Polish Heavyweight Brawl Featuring a
Showdown Between Artur Szpilka & Adam Kownacki
 
Tickets on Sale Thursday, May 25 at 10 a.m. ET!
 
LONG ISLAND, NY (May 23, 2017) – A matchup between exciting former world champions Omar “El Panterita” Figueroa (26-0-1, 18 KOs)and Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (33-5-1, 18 KOs)headlines an action-packed night of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes on Saturday, July 15 in the first boxing event at the newly-renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT from the first boxing event at the Coliseum since Mike Tyson headlined in 1986.
“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and showing fans what I’m known for – exciting fights,” said Figueroa. “I’ve been quietly training and preparing in Indo, California with Joel Diaz and now it’s time. I’m looking forward to a great fight with Robert Guerrero on July 15 in front of a New York crowd. I can’t wait to show everyone at the Coliseum and on FOX and FOX Deportes what ‘Panterita’ is all about.”
“Both me and Omar Figueroa like to bang on the inside, which should make for great entertainment, but Omar is going to find out on July 15 that he’s facing a man who has his back against the wall and is going to leave everything in the ring,” said Guerrero. “I’m going to give the millions who’ll be watching on FOX and FOX Deportes a fight to remember. This is going to be a classic Mexican war and I’m coming out on top.”
The FOX and FOX Deportes broadcast will see unbeaten contender “Sir” Marcus Browne (19-0, 14 KOs) battling undefeated Long Island native and fan favoriteSeanie Monaghan (28-0, 17 KOs) in a light heavyweight showdown.
“I have fought more times at Barclays Center than anyone, so it’s exciting to get to fight in a new venue not too far from home,” said Browne. “We might be in Seanie’s immediate backyard, but I’m just down the block, so he really isn’t any more at home than I am. I know he’s a hard-nosed fighter with a come-forward style. I’m preparing for a tough opponent. A win won’t come easy, but we have to take care of business. I am just ready to display my talent on national television and continue my climb toward a world title.”
“It is a dream come true to be fighting at the Coliseum, which is literally right next to the track where I run every day,” said Monaghan. “It is an honor to represent Long Island in the first boxing event held at this venue in 31 years. I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this for a long time, and I feel that this bout will bring a new chapter in my career. I have a lot of respect for Marcus Browne, but let the best man win. On July 15, I am putting everything on the line.”
Also televised in prime time, Artur Szpilka (20-2, 15 KOs)meets Adam Kownacki (15-0, 12 KOs) in an all-Polish heavyweight showdown that promises fireworks.
“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and give my fans another exciting fight,” said Szpilka. “With two Polish heavyweights fighting, you know there will be power and pride on display. I’m training harder than ever to get this victory in front of the great Polish fans in New York. This will be my first step towards getting back to fighting for the heavyweight world title.”
“I can’t wait to fight again,” said Kownacki. “Most of my past fights were at Barclays Center, so fighting at the Coliseum will be a new and exciting experience. I am training very hard. A win on July 15 puts me one step closer to becoming a world champion. Szpilka will not stand in my way.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale Thursday, May 25 at 10 a.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com,www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE beginning Friday, May 26 at noon. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.
“Boxing’s grand return to Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum is going to be wall-to-wall action,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes main event between Omar Figueroa and Robert Guerrero is destined to be a bloody slugfest. The co-featured bout between Staten Island’s light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne and Long Island’s undefeated ‘Irish Rocky’ Seanie Monaghan will bring the heat on a summer night in Long Island. While Marcus and Seanie will bring in a big local crowd, the heavyweight grudge match between Poland’s Artur ‘The Pin’ Szpilka and Polish American Long Islander, by way of Brooklyn, Adam ‘Baby Face’ Kownacki will pack the house with Polish fans. As a Long Islander, I am proud to promote the first fight card at Nassau Coliseum in 31 years. July 15 will be a fun, action-packed night of boxing entertainment from beginning to end; the remainder of the card will be stacked with old-school brawls including local talent.”
“The Coliseum has a rich history in boxing, having hosted notable fights with the likes of Mike Tyson, George Foreman, Joe Frazier, and Gerry Cooney, among others,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. “We are thrilled to build on the sport’s heritage on Long Island, and to bring boxing back to the venue 31 years later with a major event on network television.”
A high volume puncher with an exciting style, Figueroa has returned to training with Joel Diaz in California leading up to this fight and looks to make his presence felt on July 15. Representing Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa is undefeated since turning pro in 2008 and won a lightweight world title by defeating Nihito Arakawa in a 2013 Fight of the Year standout. He followed that victory up with successful defenses against Jerry Belmontes and Daniel Estrada. The 27-year-old most recently defeated former world champions Ricky Burns and Antonio DeMarco in his last two outings.
Born and raised in Gilroy, Calif., Guerrero is always in exciting contests having gone toe-to-toe with Danny Garcia in a FOX main event in 2016 and Keith Thurman sandwiched around a hard fought victory over Aron Martinez. Prior to 2015, the 34-year-old picked up victories over Andre Berto, Secluk Aydin and Michael Katsidis while winning world titles in multiple divisions. The brawling warrior has been in several “Fight of the Year” candidates throughout his career, including a memorable brawl in Southern California with Yoshihiro Kamegai in 2014, and he also challenged former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather in 2013.
The undefeated Browne enters this fight after an electrifying performance in February that saw him drop former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. before knocking him out in round six. The 26-year-old defeated previously unbeaten Radivoje Kalajdzic in April 2016 after a big 2015 that saw him defeat veteran contenders Gabriel Campillo, Aaron Pryor Jr., Francisco Sierra and Cornelius White. The 2012 U.S. Olympian fights out of Staten Island, New York after an exceptional amateur career that saw him win the 2012 U.S. Amateur Championship at light heavyweight.
One of the most popular fighters representing Long Island, Monaghan looks to solidify his first world title shot when he faces Browne on July 15. Monaghan competed in the 2009 New York Golden Gloves before turning pro, reaching the final before dropping a memorable contest to fellow Long Island-native Joe Smith Jr. He has yet to taste defeat in as a professional while battling a slew of veterans eager to test his championship mettle. Monaghan added two more victories in 2016 as he stopped Janne Forsman in five rounds and beat Fernando Castanedo in December.
The always entertaining Szpilka returns to the ring after a defeat at the hands of heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder in 2016 as he attempts to get back on the path towards world title contention. The aggressive-minded 6-foot-3 Szpilka, had a four-fight win streak entering the Wilder bout as he picked up a 10-round unanimous decision over former cruiserweight world champion Tomasz Adamek in 2014 and stoppage victories over Yasmany Consuegra, Manuel Quezada and Ty Cobb in 2015.
A two-time New York Golden Gloves champion, five of Kownacki’s last six victories have come at Barclays Center and he now hopes to bring that winning mindset to the Coliseum. Originally from Poland but now living in Brooklyn, Kownacki stopped previously once-beaten Joshua Tufte in January of this year after 2016 saw him earn a stoppage of Jesse Barboza in June and a decision over Danny Kelly in January. He will take on the toughest test of his career in his countryman Szpilka.
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepagewww.foxdeportes.comwww.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionswww.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

BADOU JACK AND JAMES DEGALE BATTLE TO A MAJORITY DRAW IN UNIFICATION SHOWDOWN BETWEEN WORLD’S BEST SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS SATURDAY NIGHT ON SHOWTIME® AT BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

 

 

Gervonta Davis Dethrones Jose Pedraza In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Co-Feature

 

Catch An Encore Presentation Of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

Monday, January 16 At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME

 

Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

Click HERE for Photos from Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

BROOKLYN (Jan. 15, 2017) – The No. 1 and No. 2-ranked super middleweights in the world met in a unification to determine the world’s best 168-pound fighter Saturday on SHOWTIME.  After two knockdowns and 12 intense, back-and-forth rounds, the distinction as the world’s best super middleweight is still up for grabs.

 

WBC champion Badou Jack (20-1-3, 12 KOs) and IBF titlist James DeGale (23-1-1, 14 KOs) fought to a 12-round majority draw in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING in front of 10,128 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  The bout was scored 114-112 (DeGale) and 113-113 twice, and the only clear winner was the sport of boxing and its fans.

 

Britain’s DeGale, making the third defense of his IBF belt, started the drama by flooring Jack with a jab with 30 seconds left in the first round.  But it was back and forth from there in a highly skilled, closely contested battle between the consensus best in the weight class and in the eighth unification bout in division history.

 

Jack, making his third title defense, was more effective on the inside and more active, throwing 745 total punches vs. DeGale’s 617.

 

The pivotal moment in the fight occurred when Jack floored DeGale for the first time in his career with a left-right combo punch midway through the 12th and final round.  Without the 10-8 round, DeGale would have won a unanimous decision.

 

“I thought I won the fight. I finished stronger,” Jack said.  “His knockdown was a flash knockdown. I won the fight.  He was doing a lot of running. He was throwing a lot of shit at my guard.

 

“Let’s do it again at light heavyweight. It’s time to move to light heavyweight.”

 

DeGale countered: “I’ve got huge respect for this man, but I thought I won that.  I landed the cleanest shots.  Let’s do it again.  Let’s do it again in London.

 

“He hit me (in the 12th), but I was more off balance.  I respect him.  He’s a good, all-around fighter.  Let’s go again.”

 

Undefeated 130-pound Floyd Mayweather protégé Gervonta Davis (17-0, 16 KOs) dethroned defending IBF Junior Lightweight World Champion Jose Pedraza (22-1, 12 KOs) with an impressive seventh round TKO (2:36) in the opening bout of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.

 

Davis was supremely accurate from the opening bell, landing an astounding 48 percent of his power punches and 40 percent of his total shots.  Davis won his first title at just 22 years of age, similar to his mentor Mayweather, who picked up his first belt in the same weight class when he was 21.

 

Pedraza was making the third defense of his belt, but didn’t come out with his traditional “Sniper” game plan of fighting at range and picking apart his opponent.  Davis gained confidence as he connected on the inside, landing at an impressive clip and preventing his Puerto Rican opponent from landing with effective lateral and head movement.

 

The Baltimore native hurt Pedraza with a huge left hook to the body in the opening moments of the sixth round, forcing Pedraza to guard his right side while eating repeated combinations with no answer for the onslaught.  Davis landed more than 50 percent of his power shots in the sixth and Pedraza never really recovered.  He was floored in the seventh round by a big right hook, falling to the canvas for the first time in his career.  Pedraza got up, but referee Ricky Gonzalez sensed Pedraza was defeated and immediately halted the contest.

 

“I’ve had experience, I was telling you all that and you didn’t believe it,” said Davis, who became the youngest reigning world titlist.  “I did the hard work, and us coming out on top, it means a lot.  Having a great boxer and promoter backing me feels great.

 

“In this camp, I studied ‘Pretty Boy’ Floyd, not ‘Money.’  I learned to stay composed.  He caught me with some good shots. I took it and I came back out.  That’s how you show you’re a real dude.

 

“I felt that he was laying down.  I caught him one time in the body and he backed up.  My team told me to go back to the body.  My team told me to stay under control and go back to the body.”

 

Said Mayweather: “For this training camp, I didn’t want to be around him.  I didn’t want to talk to him. I wanted him to focus so he could go out and be right.  Is this the future of boxing? Abso-f***-lutely.”

 

Pedraza admitted he made a fundamental error in fighting Davis’ game.

 

“The strategy was to fight him from a distance, but it didn’t work out that way,” Pedraza said.  “In spurts I did do it, but in the end I was trying to give too much pressure and that didn’t work.

 

“There was a moment there when I adjusted to the game plan that I wanted, but I kept trying to fight with him and it didn’t work.

 

“It’s no excuse, but I was at 135 pounds and coming down to accept this fight maybe wasn’t the right move.”

 

Amanda Serrano (31-1-1, 23 KOs) capitalized on the opportunity to fight in the first women’s world title fight on English-language national television in nearly a decade, with a dominating performance in victory. Serrano defended her WBO Junior Featherweight World Championship over former two-division world champion Yazmin Rivas (35-10-1, 10 KOs) via unanimous decision. The judges scored the bout 97-97, 98-92, 99-91.

 

Serrano was the busier fighter from the opening bell, and landed nearly the double amount of the punches as her opponent – 206 compared to 107 – while connecting on an impressive 41 percent of her power punches.

 

“We knew she was going to come to fight,” Serrano said.  “She’s a Mexican fighter who’s very tough and experienced. I had to show her my power and my skills.  I was glad to get 10-rounds in and I hope the fans enjoyed the fight.

 

“We wanted the knockout, but I was ready for 10-rounds. People who think I’m just a brawler saw that I’m a great boxer today.   We picked a tough opponent because we wanted to showcase that I can beat good fighters and take a punch if I have to.  I can do everything in the ring.  We wanted the toughest fighter out there and she came to fight.

 

“It was a great night for women’s boxing and I hope it keeps getting bigger and bigger.  We want the best. My goal is to drop to 118 pounds and win a title in my fifth division. I want to fight other champions. My goal is to be the first Puerto Rican to hold world titles in five weight classes.”

 

Rivas disagreed with the decision.

 

“It was an excellent fight.  I followed all of the instructions from my corner and I believe that I won,” Rivas said.  “I think the last round was very close, but I think I did well in all the rounds.

 

“I knew everything was against me and to win I had to knock her out. Unfortunately it didn’t happen today.  I believe that after this fight, women will have more opportunities to show their skills on television.”

 

In an exciting matchup of undefeated middleweights that saw multiple knockdowns and swings of momentum, Immanuwel Aleem (17-0-1, 10 KOs) defeated previously unbeaten Ievgen Khytrov (14-1, 12 KOs) by sixth-round TKO.

 

Aleem struck first with a massive overhand right that staggered Khytrov and left him wide-eyed and susceptible to punishment. Aleem pushed forward and continued to land punches, but the Ukrainian was able to stay on his feet to survive the round and return to his corner.

 

Khytrov recovered brilliantly to win the second round on all three judges’ scorecards, including 10-8 in the eyes of one judge. The third round saw an early candidate for Round of the Year in which Aleem dropped Khytrov hard with a strong left hook that put Khytrov down for the first time in his career. Khytrov continued to show incredible resolve as he was able stay on his feet and blast Aleem with a late shot that nearly put Aleem out.

 

The back-and-forth continued with Khytrov seemingly beginning to take control of the bout until the sixth round when Aleem landed a series of overhand right hands that put Khytrov down again. Khytrov beat the count but Aleem continued to push forward and battered a defenseless Khytrov until referee Eddie Claudio halted the bout 1:20 into round six. Aleem landed 50 percent of his power punches in the bout that was scheduled for 10-rounds.

 

The opening bout of the telecast saw former title challenger Thomas Dulorme (24-2, 16 KOs) earn a sixth-round TKO victory over Brian Jones (13-7, 7 KOs) in their welterweight contest. In his first bout since signing with Mayweather Promotions, the Puerto Rican-fighter dominated and controlled the fight by landing 46 percent of his power punches.

 

Big overhand rights and uppercuts did most of the damage early for Dulorme as he staggered Jones in a dominant third round. Dulorme began to work the body shots in as he wore Jones down but missed low repeatedly in round five and had a point deducted from him by referee Shada Murdaugh. Dulorme was able to recover in the next round and used a strong flurry to force the referee to intervene and stop the fight at 1:49 of round six.

 

# # #

 

ABOUT JACK vs. DEGALE

Badou Jack vs. James DeGale, a 12-round super middleweight world unification fight, was promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment and took place Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME. Opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT were junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten contender Gervonta Davis.

 

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Badou Jack vs. James DeGale Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Doubleheader ThisSaturday, January 14 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
 
BROOKLYN (January 12, 2017) – Super middleweight champions Badou Jack andJames DeGale went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their world title unification showdown that headlines action this Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME.
Mayweather Promotions President Floyd Mayweather discussed the highly anticipated matchup featuring his fighter, Jack, who he has helped go from contender to the top of the 168-pound division.
Televised coverage begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT with junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza taking on undefeated contender Gervonta Davis, both of whom were on hand to speak to media at the Highline Ballroom in Manhattan.
Fighters from the televised undercard in attendance include super bantamweight world champion Amanda Serrano who defends her title against former two-division world champion Yazmin Rivas on SHOWTIME EXTREME. Also in attendance and opening up the telecast at 7 p.m. ET/PT are undefeated middleweights Ievgen Khytrov andImmanuwel Aleem and former title challenger Thomas Dulorme, whotakes on Brian Jones.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the participants had to say Thursday:
BADOU JACK
“I’m just happy to be here and enjoying myself. I can’t wait until Saturday night to become a unified world champion.
“I’m fighting another world champion so I know that it’s not going to be easy. No matter what, we’re getting the job done.
“On fight night, none of the talk matters. You have to back it up in the ring. I’m just excited about the fight. I’m not focused on anything else other than that. I just need to win.
“I’ve been paying attention to DeGale for a while. You have to study your opponent a little bit for a fight this big. I’m ready to do anything it takes to win the fight.
“I promise the fans it’s going to be an exciting fight. Don’t blink, because this one could be over quickly. One punch can change the fight.
“This is champion versus champion. It’s finally here. I’m going to put on a great show and become the unified champion, no matter what it takes.
“To be at Barclays Center in Brooklyn is amazing. It’s a unification fight so it doesn’t get any bigger than that. It’s boxing and anything can happen, but on fight night I’m going to find a way to get the victory.
“This is the most people that have come over from Sweden to support me. It’s fun to have a lot of support back home. I can’t wait to come home as a unified champion.”
JAMES DEGALE
“Badou doesn’t do anything spectacularly, but he does everything well. I’ve got to be on top of my game to get the victory.
“I’m prepared if the fight goes 12-rounds or one round. My training has been perfect and it’s all going to come together on fight night.
“It’s a dream come true to fight at Barclays Center. A lot of U.K. fighters have fought in New York and I’m excited to be another. It’s going to be a special atmosphere on fight night.
“I’m expecting to have a lot of support on Saturday night. My profile in America has been growing and I think there will be support in the building. As a young kid you always wanted to come to America and become a star.
“Camp is done. It’s been a wicked camp. Everything has gone well. On Saturday night you’re going to see two world class fighters go to war. I have no doubt that I will be victorious and become the super middleweight unified world champion.
“This is the moment. The time is now and we’re ready. My whole team is primed for a great performance. I’m ready to prove that I’m one of the best fighters in the world.
“I can’t wait to return to the U.K. as a unified world champion. This is a great fight for boxing and it’s going to raise my appeal all over the world.
“I think our styles are going to gel to make a great fight. But don’t be surprised about anything you see in the ring. Enjoy the fight on Saturday night.”
FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions
“I want to thank everybody for coming out to support this event. The main thing I want to do is thank the fighters. Without the fighters going out there and racking up victories then we wouldn’t be here today for this explosive card.
“I commend James DeGale on his career. He’s done a great job. Badou Jack is very humble, appreciative and dedicated to his craft. These are unbelievable fighters.Saturday we’re looking for another great night of boxing. I think it will be one of the best cards of this year and this is one of the first.
“We have so many new faces at Mayweather Promotions, including Thomas Dulorme, and we look forward to taking him to the next level and back to world title contention.
“Everything takes time in the sport. Nothing happens overnight. We started Mayweather Promotions to give back and help fighters, not take from fighters. I’ve been there, so I know how these fighters feel. It takes a lot to reach this level.
“It takes a lot to get a card of this magnitude together. But I’m a man of my word. I told Gervonta Davis that he would be fighting on TV for a world title. It’s about producing, and that’s what we do at Mayweather Promotions.
“This sport is about the fighters growing and accomplishing their dreams. Helping these fighters is the greatest feeling. I’m always there to help my fighters.
“I’m so proud of Badou Jack. The first time I saw him in the gym, I was curious about him. If a guy is willing to fly overseas and take a bus to the boxing gym to accomplish his dreams, that’s what makes a great fighter.
“I gave a lot to the sport and boxing gave a lot to me. My career is over and it’s time for me to give back. I want to help them accomplish their goals.
“This is going to be a great card. Make sure you tune-in on Saturday night. Two great world title fights on SHOWTIME and another on SHOWTIME EXTREME.”
JOSE PEDRAZA
“I’m very proud and grateful to be here and represent Puerto Rico. I’m ready to get to the fight. I’ve been training for a very long time. It’s been a great camp with a lot of good sparring.
“Davis is a great fighter. He’s very young and talented. He has a good record. But I am the champion. I’m prepared for anything he might bring into the ring.
“I am excited to fight in front of the great Puerto Rican fans in Brooklyn. I think it will help inspire me to give a great performance and defend my belt.
“I’m prepared for everything. I prepare like a champion every day so that we can get into the ring and execute our game plan.
“It’s a great opportunity to share the card with a fellow Puerto Rican in Amanda Serrano and I think the fans are in for a treat. We’re going to bring the heart of the Puerto Ricans into the ring.
“I just hope that he came ready for the fight. Because if he’s not ready, I’m going for the knockout.”
GERVONTA DAVIS
“I’m in fight mode right now. It’s my first world title shot and I had a great training camp. I trained with top amateurs. I know Pedraza will come to fight because he’s a great champion.
“It was a big step up for me when I first signed with Floyd Mayweather. He took me under his wing and helped me do things I’ve never done before. It was new for me, coming from where I come from.
“I know that Pedraza is a great fighter and I have to be ready for anything. I believe in my abilities and the work my team in during training camp. It’s going to be exciting.
“I started fighting for the money, but I lost sight of what I really came to do. I’ve dedicated myself to this team and I’m going to bring my heart and my mind into the ring.
“I’m going to show the fans and everybody watching what I’m really about. I’m not Mike Tyson, I’m not Floyd Mayweather or Sugar Ray Leonard, I’m just Gervonta Davis. OnJanuary 14 I will become a world champion.”
AMANDA SERRANO
“It feels great to be in this position. It’s an honor. Having this spotlight is an amazing thing. I’m coming to show off. I’m not going to disappoint anybody, especially the women in this sport. I’m going to show that we need to be here.
“If you don’t know me, I’m a brawler and a big puncher. I go in there to get the job done. I love to brawl but if I have to box, I’ll box with anybody.
“I know I’m up against a tough Mexican fighter who is going to bring it. I didn’t study her too much. I let my trainers do the work to come up with a game plan. I train hard for every opponent and I train for every style.
“If Rivas stays true to her Mexican style and if I stay true to my Puerto Rican style, then there will be no need for the judges.
“Neither one of us are going to take a step back on fight night. We’re going right to the middle of the ring and we’re going to bring it. I don’t think we’ll even touch the ropes.
“It’s amazing to be fighting at home. It’s just a walk down the block for me. I’m excited to have my friends and supporters there to watch me. I hope everything comes down because it’s going to be a great night. It’s my second fight at Barclays Center and I hope to continue to fight here.”
YAZMIN RIVAS
“I’m very grateful to be fighting on SHOWTIME. I know that Amanda Serrano is going to be a very tough challenge, but I have a lot of experience.
“I am very experienced in the ring and I am going to use it to my full advantage. I’m going to work hard for every round until I’m a world champion.
“I’m here to give a great fight just like we always do when it’s Mexico vs. Puerto Rico.”
IEVGEN KHYTROV
“I’m very thankful for everyone who helped get me here. This is the first step on my way to a world title. I believe one day soon I will be champion.
“I’m going to throw a lot of punches and put on a show for the fans. Most fighters can’t handle me when I’m aggressive and coming forward.
“It’s an honor to be on a card like this and to be televised. I can’t wait to hear the fans and start fighting.”
IMMANUWEL ALEEM
“I feel really good going into this fight. I was born in New York and it’s my first time fighting in New York, so I’m very excited.
“I’m taking on a good opponent with good experience and a great resume. I’m just ready to keep doing what I’ve been doing. I worked hard for this and I’m going to show what I’m capable of in the ring.
THOMAS DULORME
“I’m feeling great and very happy to be here and fighting for Mayweather Promotions. New York is my city and I love fighting here with all the great Puerto Rican fans.
“I feel more motivated than ever. Signing with Mayweather Promotions is going to put me on a new run. I have more energy throughout training camp and I’m excited.
“I’m working little by little to improve and get better. I’m coming to be victorious and no one is going to stop me.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“Everyone needs to go out and buy tickets for a great night of boxing. This night will feature three world title bouts and it’s really a can’t miss night.
“SHOWTIME is leading the way when it comes to boxing. They put on the best fights by far. With the great women’s fight on this card and on SHOWTIME, I think this is the start of something great for women’s boxing.
“I can’t say enough about Gervonta Davis and Jose Pedraza. Pedraza is here to represent for Puerto Rico and Davis is here for Baltimore. It’s going to be a war. Both these men are coming to steal the show.
“Gervonta Davis is coming to knock your head off. He’s not leaving it up to the judges. If Pedraza has overlooked him, then he is in for a rude awakening. Davis has had a great camp and come Saturday night, he’s going to take that title.
“I know Badou and his team have a tremendous game plan in place. He’s worked hard to get to this moment and I believe on Saturday night he will be the unified super middleweight world champion.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“This is as good as it gets for boxing. To start the year with the best fighting the best, there’s nothing better. Badou Jack and James DeGale are terrific fighters. Badou has had many obstacles in his career, but he just kept getting better and better until you couldn’t deny he was one of the best fighters in the world. James is highly decorated and has a great personality. Both these men have the right to call themselves the best.
“You can get into the arena Saturday night for $25 and that’s good the sport. We’re expecting a great crowd on Saturday night at Barclays Center. Barclays Center is dedicated to a boxing program and they are truly committed to the sport.
“I want to thank Floyd and Leonard for everything leading up to this fight. I met Floyd when he was very young and he always believed he was going to be the best and he lived up to his word. That’s what makes a champion a great champion and now he’s committed himself to being a boxing promoter. It’s been a pleasure to work with his whole staff and I believe they’re here to say.
“The off-television undercard features three fighters who are major ticket sellers and have developed big followings. Adam Kownacki, born in Brooklyn and from Poland. He’s a Golden Glove Champion and he’s moving himself into that contender territory. There will be lots of Polish flags on Saturday night. Julian Sosa is a 21-year-old prospect who also has a big following. Plus Ireland’s Noel Murphy, who will be making his second appearance at Barclays Center. This card is sensational.
“The first fight on SHOWTIME EXTREME features Ievgen Khytrov. He’s ranked number two by the WBC at middleweight He’s fighting a young man in Immanuwel Aleem who is also undefeated and fighting to become a contender. It’s a significant fight in the middleweight division.
“The main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME is historic. This is the first time that a women’s championship fight has been on national television in almost a decade. It’s a real move by SHOWTIME to make the point that women’s boxing has arrived and it’s time to start paying attention to the ladies.
“Jose Pedraza is the only reigning world champion from Puerto Rico. I think he’s one of the best fighters in the world. He has wins over a number of excellent fighters. This is a big opportunity for him. He’s getting an opportunity to be co-featured in New York City. With all the great Puerto Rica fans, he’s not going to let them down.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“These fights are not mismatches. This isn’t a showcase fight or a tune-up fight. That’s not what SHOWTIME, Mayweather Promotions or Lou DiBella is about. This is about the best fighting the best. High quality competitive fights These are the fights fans have been asking for.
“The main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME is a matchup that’s worthy of this stage. A pound-for-pound women’s champion against a tough former champion. Top to bottom this is a high quality card.
“In the past, the sport and its fans have been spoiled. Floyd Mayweather is retired now. He’s running his businesses and it’s time for the sport to find new stars. These are the kinds of fights that launch new stars. This is where stars are born. These are the fights that the sport needs. You might see a new star born on Saturday night.”
# # #
ABOUT JACK vs. DEGALE
Badou Jack vs. James DeGale, a 12-round super middleweight world unification fight, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment and takes place thisSaturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME. Opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT are junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten contenderGervonta Davis.
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Badou Jack vs. James DeGale Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 

 Macintosh HD:Users:user:Desktop:IMG_5647.JPG

Super Middleweight World Title Unification Showdown Headlines Action Saturday, January 14 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn &

Live on SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Photos from Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

 

BROOKLYN (January 11. 2017) – Fight week activities officially began today with media workouts at the brand new Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn before the super middleweight title unification showdown between Badou Jack and James DeGale that headlines action this Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME.

 

Also in attendance and opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT are junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten contender Gervonta Davis.

 

Additional televised action will feature super bantamweight world champion Amanda Serrano defending her title against former two-division world champion Yazmin Rivas on SHOWTIME EXTREME. The telecast beings at 7 p.m. ET/PT with a matchup of undefeated middleweights Ievgen Khytrov and Immanuwel Aleem.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

 

BADOU JACK

 

“I’m just trying to stay positive and enjoy this moment. I wish that the fight was tomorrow night. But we’re showing patience and bracing for the opportunity.

 

“This is the biggest fight of my career and I’m ready to take it to the next level. I have the experience to be on this stage and I’m ready to show that I’m one of the best in the sport.

 

“I’ve seen DeGale fight a few times. His last couple of fights I don’t think we’ve seen the best of him. I want the best James DeGale to show up on fight night. There won’t be any excuses on fight night.

 

“I’m in the best shape of my life. I’m pretty sure he’s in the best shape of his life too. So let’s see who is the best.

 

“I’m going in there to break him down. I’m going to be the better fighter. If I get an opportunity to land something that can change the fight, I’m going to take my chance.

 

“This has been one of the best training camps of my career. My nutrition is better than it’s ever been and I have positive people around me.

 

“I believe I can knock anybody out who gets in the ring with me. If you don’t believe that in yourself, then you’re in the wrong sport. I’m not expecting an easy fight, but I’ll do whatever it takes to win.

 

“My trainer Lou Del Valle is the reason that I’ve improved so much. I brought him back in after my loss and he’s helped get me to where I am right now.

 

“There is no doubt we’ll know who the best super middleweight in the world is after Saturday night.”

 

JAMES DEGALE

 

“I just flew to New York on Monday after a brilliant camp. I’ve been training well and sparring hard. I’ve had some great work on the track and I’ve ran a lot of miles. I’m in fantastic shape.

 

“This fight has a different feel. I feel like I’m in a big fight. I feel like I’m on a different level of fitness for this one. Mind, body and soul. Everything is great.

 

“I’m mentally prepared. Badou Jack is an extremely good fighter. He’s a tough opponent. He gets better every single fight. The way I’m feeling right now, Badou Jack shouldn’t beat me. I’m focused on fighting my very best.

 

“I’ve sacrificed a lot to put myself in this position and to make sure this was a great camp. Now the time is here.

 

“To have a media day in Brooklyn is great. I’m in a fantastic position in my life and career. I’m more comfortable than I was years ago. Back in the day I wouldn’t know what to say. I’m a man now and I’m ready to reach my destiny.

 

“Movement, speed and angles are my keys. If I’m focused and take no rounds off, that should do it. It will do it. Anything can happen in boxing, but I’m too prepared for this.

 

“I look at Badou Jack, and even though he’s been getting better, I think I’m a much better fighter. He’s very high quality and I have to be on my game. It’s going to be a great fight, but I will be victorious.

 

“My loss to George Groves was a blessing in disguise. If that didn’t happen to me, I don’t know where I would be in my career. I was too big for my boots back then. I thought I was the golden boy and I was humbled. I had to rebuild and I came back.”

 

JOSE PEDRAZA

 

“I let [Gervonta] Davis do the talking. I like when people talk like that, because I get to shut them up on the night of the fight. He’s a Floyd Mayweather imitation. Just like all imitations, it’s not as good as the real one.

 

“I’m very happy to be here representing Puerto Rico in New York City with another Puerto Rican champion in Amanda Serrano. She’s a four-time champion who is very accomplished and it’s an honor to be on this card with her.

 

“I feel ready to fight. I’m anxious to get in the ring. I can’t wait for Saturday night and to show the whole world what I’m made of.

 

“I have the advantage in experience and in reach and height. He’s going to try to bring pressure but I’ll be ready for it.

 

“Not only do I have more pro experience, but more amateur experience as well. All of these years of being on the big stage is going to help me in the fight.

 

“I don’t think I’m underrated. People know my quality, which is why people avoid fighting me. I believe I’m the best fighter at 130-pounds.

 

“I’m ready for any type of fight. The question is, will Davis be ready? If Davis gets tired, he’s going to have trouble in the late rounds.”

 

GERVONTA DAVIS

 

“I feel great right now. I’m in tip-top shape. I had the best sparring available and everything went smoothly. I’m ready to go to work January 14.

 

“We know that Pedraza is a world champion who comes in undefeated. He does a lot of good things in the ring but we’ll be ready for them come fight night.

 

“It feels good to be on this stage. I feel ready to headline my own card. I’m ready to do my own thing and that comes with winning this world title.

 

“I haven’t watched too much of him, but my team is prepared. He doesn’t have anything I haven’t seen before. We just have to execute the game plan when the bell rings.”

 

YAZMIN RIVAS

 

“I know that I’m up against a girl who is a heavy hitter and can punch hard. I’ve been training extremely hard to prepare for this fight because I know I’m facing a dangerous fighter. I just need to maintain my weight up until fight night.

 

“I’ve trained with a lot of southpaws to prepare for Serrano’s style. It’s only the second time I’ve faced a southpaw. I come in with a game plan, but once you step in that ring, I know that anything can happen.

 

“I’m a veteran and I have the experience. Serrano will have to overcome my advantage there.

 

“I’m excited to be fighting in the U.S. and I know that this is a huge opportunity. Fighting on television is something I have to take advantage of. After this fight, people will really see what female boxing is all about.

 

“I’m very motivated and excited that I have the chance to fight in Brooklyn in the best city in the U.S. for boxing. I’m going to come to fight. I won’t back down and we will be in the middle of the ring exchanging.”

 

IEVGEN KHYTROV

 

“I’ve seen Aleem fight and he’s nothing special. He’s very fast. He does everything very quickly. But he can be hit. He has a little bit of power, but I can hit him.

 

“I’m going to take advantage of his mistakes. I’m ready for this fight and I’m going for the knockout. This isn’t going to be a long fight. I think I will knock him out in five or six rounds.

 

“I’m an aggressive fighter. I want to brawl. I want to throw a lot of punches. I’m happy if I can throw 100 punches in a round. Nobody can take that kind of punishment and it helps me get my opponent out of there.

 

“I’m happy to be fighting in Brooklyn at Barclays Center. It’s very important to my career. After this fight I am going to get big steps up and big names. I’m going to show what I can do on Saturday.

 

“I want to fight for a real world title. I’m ready for it and I just want to face good opponents and challenge myself.”

 

IMMANUWEL ALEEM

 

“This has been a great training camp. I have George Peterson in my corner and he made Paul Williams a three-time champion. He’s putting me through the same regimen that made him one of the most feared fighters in the sport.

 

“I don’t know too much about my opponent. We have a game plan based around him being some type of bull, but my trainer is the one analyzing that, and then we go from there.

 

“I bring the total package into the ring. There’s nothing I can’t do. I can box and I can brawl. Most importantly, I can make adjustments during a fight.

 

“A win here will really stamp who I am in this sport. We’re leading to become a world champion. I’m not a regular fighter in there. I can beat these top guys.”

 

JULIAN SOSA

 

“I can honestly say that this is one of the best training camps that I’ve had. I’m both nervous and excited. I’m nervous because I’ve never had a training camp like this and I’m excited to see how I feel in the ring.

 

“I’ve seen a few tapes of my opponent. He’s a very aggressive fighter who throws a lot of right hands. I have to prepare myself for that. If he wants to start early or take his time, I’m ready for anything.

 

“I’m very confident heading into this fight. I believe that I will put on a great performance and possibly the best of my career.

 

“I’m very thankful to be fighting at home in Brooklyn and I’m humbled to have the opportunity to perform at Barclays Center once again. There’s no better feeling than having your friends and family cheering you on.

 

 

# # #

ABOUT JACK vs. DEGALE

Badou Jack vs. James DeGale, a 12-round super middleweight world unification fight, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment and takes place this Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME. Opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT are junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten contender Gervonta Davis.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.comwww.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella,  @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports,  www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.