Tag Archives: Andy Lee

Brooklyn Heavyweight Prospect Pryce Taylor has made successful Move from Basketball to Boxing

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(L) – Pryce Taylor is an up-and-coming heavyweight prospect (photo courtesy of Sullivan Management)

NEW YORK CITY (March 19, 2024) – Brooklyn heavyweight Pryce Taylor (3-0, 2 KOs) has successfully transitioned from basketball to boxing and today the 27-year-old prospect is on the rise as an undefeated prize fighter.

Taylor said he brought his legs from the courts into the ring. He first dunked a ball when he was in eighth grade, four inches shorter than the 6’ 4” Taylor is today. Pryce admits missing basketball but quickly notes that he could still play, not necessarily on a team, because he’s not in basketball shape anymore. “I’m in boxing shape,” he proudly noted.

A decorated  U.S. amateur boxer, highlighted by his two New York Golden Gloves Championship titles, Taylor was also a four-time runner-up in USA National Championships, including one to Joshua Edwards, who has qualified to represent as a super heavyweight for Team USA in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Last year, Taylor had seven wins fighting for New York in the Team Combat League (TCL), which is a one-round, team format competition. Technically-speaking, the wins are not part of his professional boxing record. Taylor has benefitted from that experience and will be competing this season as well.

Taylor played basketball for one season at Corning Community College in upstate New York. “I stopped playing basketball six years ago,” Taylor said. “I’ve had 60 fights (amateurs, pros and TCL) and believe the best boxers get there with sparring experience. So, I’ve been getting a lot of experience. I have a good skill set and know what I need to do in the ring.

“My mindset is to do what other boxers don’t do. All boxers learn the basics, but everything they want to throw, I already throw myself, and I know how to counter there’s. Anything they throw I’m able to defend.”

Taylor has been placed on the fast track by his manager, New York City-based attorney Keith Sullivan, who has discovered that it’s not easy finding suitable opponents for Taylor, who because of his size, amateur pedigree and participating in the TCL, is much more advanced than his three pro fights may indicate.

Another invaluable part of Taylor’s development is sparring established heavyweights such as Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller, Otto Wallin, Vladyslav Sirenko, and Brandon Glanton to name a few of the more notables.

Taylor made his pro debut last December, stopping Mike Diorio in the opening round, followed January 27 with the exact same result versus Gabriel Aguilar Costa. In his most recent action in March, Taylor went the distance for the first time as a pro, pitching a four-round shutout for a unanimous decision against Antonio Torres (4-1), 40-36 three times.

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(L-R) – Head trainer Benny Roman, Pryce Taylor & manager Keith Sullivan (photo courtesy of Sullivan Management)

In his last fight, held at Sony Hall, Taylor came out to the ring and paraded around the ring afterwards with an Irish flag draped around his massive shoulders (see above picture).

“Keith (Sullivan) knew there would be a lot of Irish fans there to watch an Irish fighter (Emmet Brennan) fighting after me,” Taylor explained. “He figured it was a good way to engage the large Irish crowd, so he draped me in the Irish tri-color flag.  He was right, the Irish in attendance absolutely loved it, and I made some more fans.”

Basketball loss is boxing’s gain; Pryce Taylor is a legitimate prospect with tremendous upside.

In addition to managing Pryce Taylor, Keith Sullivan, a former Deputy Commissioner with the New York State Athletic Commission, and longtime boxing lawyer, also manages IBF Bantamweight World Champion Miyo Yoshida (17-4, 0 KOs) and Bronx middleweight prospect Nisa Rodriguez (1-0), in addition to co-managing World Boxing Association (WBA) No. 12-rated welterweight contender Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (13-0, 10 KOs), the reigning WBA Continental Champion from Limerick, Ireland. Sullivan co-manages Donovan with former world middleweight champion Andy Lee.

“Crossroads: doubleheader results from N.H.: Kendrick Ball, Jr. hits home run vs. Bryan Vera

“Crossroads” results from New Hampshire 

DERRY, N.H. (April 18, 2021) – Former New England middleweight champion Kendrick “Peppa” Ball, Jr. turned in a career-best performance in last night’s main event against dangerous Bryan “The Warrior” Vera on the evening portion of the “Crossroads” day-night doubleheader, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, at New England Sports Center in Derry, New Hampshire. 

The pre-fight plan was followed as Ball (16-1-2, 11 KOs) boxed and moved, while Vera (28-17, 18 KOs) applied pressure, right from the opening bell.  Ball took control in the second round, when he stayed in the pocket, snapping off crisp combinations.  Ball fired more effective combinations in the third round as Vera started chasing his opponent.  Ball started moving around the ring and fighting from the outside in the fourth and stayed on his toes the remainder of the fight. 

Ball won an 8-round unanimous decision (79-73, 79-73, 78-74) to become the World Boxing Council (WBC) USNBC (United States) Silver Super Middleweight Champion. 

“This was my best fight, because of who I fought, and the magnitude of the fight,” Ball commented.  “The plan was to box and move because he was much smaller and slower.  At times I banged, when I knew he wasn’t hurting me, but I shouldn’t have taken the risks.” 

The 39-year-old Vera isn’t the same fighter he was when he beat three different world champions – Andy LeeSergio Mora (twice) and Serhiy Dzinziruk.  The Texan needs to decide if it’s time to finally hang up his gloves.  

“This was awesome, definitely our best show to date,” Granite Chin’s Chris Traietti declared after the show.  “We feel great about stepping up to give these fighters, especially the locals, a platform to perform on in front of fans.  I think a lot of promoters have gotten lazy.  They gave us a lane and Granite Chin took advantage.  This was our fourth show with fans during the last year.  Brian fought hard and he’s a great guy, but he’s not the same guy he was in 2011.  He needs to think about what he’s going to do. 

“Granite Chin returns here June 26th with another doubleheader.  The afternoon show will be the Granite Chin Invitational for open elite boxers.  With the New England Golden Gloves canceled again there is a void to fill.  If promoters are going to help amateurs, I certainly will, starting June 26th.” 

Challenger Marquis Bates (8-4, 6 KOs) dethroned defending New Hampshire Welterweight Champion Ryan Dibartolomeo (3-2-1, 1 KO) via a sixth-round stoppage in an entertaining co-feature.  A devastating overhand right from Bates gave him his new crown as the referee didn’t even count as the ring doctor quickly entered the ring.  

Larry “Hitman” Pryor took the contract out on Scott Lambert and he wasted little time taking care of business to become the New Hampshire Cruiserweight Champion.  Pryor took advantage of his decisive height and reach advantages, closing the show with a perfectly thrown left hook that sent Lambert to the canvas.  Lambert managed to beat the count, but the referee stopped the fight midway through the opening round when he saw Lambert wobbling back and forth on rubbery legs. 

Lanky lefthanded Francis “The Tank” Hogan (5-0, 5 KOs) graduated last night with a brilliant performance against Larry “Slo Mo” Smith, who was in his 60th career fight.  Hogan put down Smith early in the third round and caught the Texan late in the same round with a lefty-combination to the temple.  Smith beat the count, but he was unable to answer the bell for the fourth round, and  20-year-old Hogan became the new New Hampshire Junior Middleweight Champion. 

Former New England heavyweight champion Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe (5-2-1, 4 KOs) positioned himself for another N.E. title shot with a spectacular knockout of Alfredo “Choncho” Trevino (9-9-1, 1 KO). The 263-pound Rolfe, fighting out of Fairfield, Maine, charged across the ring at the bell and put his Arizona opponent to sleep right in his corner, when he was counted out at the 20-seconds mark. 

The newest member of the fightin’ Whitley family from western Massachusetts, undefeated welterweight Denzel Whitley, cruised to his fourth victory with his fourth knockout.  He drilled Aquilandro Brandao late in round one and the fight was stopped by the referee. 

Undefeated Jahye Brown (9-0, 7 KOs) captured the vacant ABF Athletic junior middleweight title with a hard fought 8-round unanimous decision over a game Mexican opponent,Dormedes Potes (12-4-1, 9 KOs).  The two fought toe-to-toe from the opening bell and Brown landed the more effective punches inside to earn the victory.  

Promising middleweight prospect Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste improved to 2-0 with his second knockout, blasting out Bruno Dias in the third round.  

Fighting for the first time in more than eight years, Fall River, MA welterweight Dustin Reinhold (6-4, 2 KOs) won a 4-round unanimous decision over pro-debuting AnthonyAndreozzi in what can best be called a rough and tumble match

Junior middleweight Carlos Castillo’s professional debut was a gem as the Holyoke, MA fighter dropped Theo Desjardon twice, the last closing the show late in the first round.  

“Cannon” Berry stops Ibarra in 5  

UBO All-America Welterweight Champion Brandon “The Cannon” Berry (21-5-2, 13 KOs) successfully defended in the afternoon card’s main event, overcoming a slow start in which he was buzzed to stop challenger Gael Ibarra (5-3, 4 KOs) in the fifth round. 

Berry finished the fight in the fifth, when he unloaded twin barrages of unanswered punches on a trapped Ibarra until the referee waved off the fight. 

“I’m glad it wasn’t a 4-round fight,” Berry said after the fight.  “He was a strong guy.  I was feeling it.  He tested me.  I want to thank my family and friends here, and Granite Chin and everybody involved in the promotion.” 

In the co-featured event, New England heavyweight champion Mike “Fly” Marshall (4-1, 3 KOs), in a non-title fight, knocked out Tracey Johnson (4-10-6) in the third round. 

Popular Boston Irishman Jimmy Torney (3-0, 3 KOs) – 6’ 6”, 269 lbs. – needed only 42-seconds and one big right to stop pro-debuting heavyweight Marco Nascimento

Massachusetts welterweight Eric “Gladiator” Goff convincingly won his pro debut against Jader Alves (0-5) as he pitched a 4-round shutout 

Three-time New England Golden Gloves champion Demek “Hightower” Edmonds had an awesome pro debut, dropping cruiserweight Francisco Neto twice in round one, the second a vicious body shot ending the fight.  Edmonds, a southpaw from Worcester, MA, is a college graduate and bonafide prospect to watch. 

In a non-title fight, New England welterweight champion Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (12-1, 6 KOs) schooled his 54-fight Las Vegas opponent, junior middleweight Rynell Griffin. Ohan decked Griffin three times in the first round, the third with a left hook to the body from which Griffin was unable to beat the count. 

Canadian cruiserweight Yan “Wild Thing” Pellerin (11-1, 5 KOs) landed two stinging rights to the body of 63-fight veteran Steve “The Spoiler” Walker, both flooring the Missouri fighter, the second resulting in an opening-round knockout for the vacant ABF Atlantic title.  

Connecticut welterweight Omar “The Beast” Borday, Jr. (1101, 3 KOs) dominated 65-fight journeyman Dewayne Wisdom en route to a one-sided 8-round unanimous decision. 

Official results below: 

OFFICIAL RESULTS 

NIGHT CARD 

MAIN EVENT – VACANT WBC USNBC SILVER SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP  

Kendrick Ball, Jr. (16-1-2, 11 KOs), Worcester, MA 

WDEC8 (79-73, 79-73, 78-74) 

Bryan Vera (28-17, 18 KOs), Austin, TX 

(Ball on WBC USNBC Silver middleweight title)  

CO-FEATIURE –NEW HAMPSHIRE WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 

Marquis Bates (8-4, 6 KOs), Taunton, MA  

WKO6 (2 :26) 

Ryan Dibartolomeo (3-2-1, 1 KO), Leominster, MA 

(Bates won the N.H. welterweight title) 

VACANT NEW HAMPSHIRE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 

Larry Pryor (14-23, 8 KOs), Frederick, MD 

WTKO1 (1:50) 

Scott Lampert (1-2, 1 KO), Dover Plains, NY 

(Pryor won the N.H. cruiserweight title) 

VACANT NEW HAMPSHIRE JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 

Francis Hogan (5-0, 5 KOs), Weymouth, MA 

WTKO3 (3:00) 

Larry Smith (12-46-2 (8 KOs), Dallas, TX 

(Hogan won the N.H. junior middleweight title) 

VACANT ABF ATLANTIC JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 

Jahyae Brown (9-0, 7 KOs), Schenectady, NY 

WDEC8 (79-72, 77-74, 77074) 

Dormedes Potes (12-3-1, 9 KOs), Woburn, MA 

(Brown won ABF Atlantic junior middleweight title) 

HEAVYWEIGHTS 

Justin Rolfe (5-2-1, 3 KOs), Fairfield, ME 

WKO1 (0:20) 

Alfredo Trevino (9-9-1, 1 KO), Douglas, AZ 

WELTERWEIGHTS 

Denzel Whitley (4-0, 4 KOs), Holyoke, MA  

WTKO1 (2 :42) 

Aquilando Brandao (0-4), Boston, MA 

MIDDLEWEIGHTS 

Julien Baptiste (2-0, 2 KOs), Woburn, MA  

WTKO3 (2 :26) 

Bruno Dias (0-5), Boston, MA  

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT  

Carlos Castillo (1-0, 1 KO), Holyoke, MA 

WTKO1 (2:16) 

Theo Desjardin (0-7), Attleboro, MA 

WELTERWEGHTS 

Dustin Reinhold (6-4, 2 KOs), Fall River, MA  

WDEC4 (39-36, 39-036, 39-37 

Anthony Andreozzi (0-1), Swansea, MA 

DAY CARD 

MAIN EVENT – UBO ALL-AMERICA WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 

Brandon Berry (21-5-2, 13 KOs), West Forks, ME 

WTKO5 (1:29) 

Gael Ibarra (5-3, 4 KOs), Bisbee, AZ 

(Berry retained the UBO All-America welterweight title) 

CO-FEATURE – HEAVYWEIGHTS 

Mike Marshall (5-1, 4 KOs), Brooklyn, NY 

WTKO3 (0:38) 

Tracey Johnson, (4-10-6, 0 KOs), Boston, MA. 

VACANT ABF ATLANTIC CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 

Yan Pellerin (10-1, 4 KOs), Montreal, Quebec, Canada 

WKO1 (1:02) 

Steve Walker (26-37, 18 KOs), Hannibal, MO 

(Pellerin won the ABF Atlantic cruiserweight title) 

HEAVYWEIGHTS  

Jimmy Torney (3-0, 3 KOs), Boston, MA  

WTKO1 (0:42) 

Marco Nascimento (0-1), Bow, NH 

CRUISERWEIGHTS 

Demek Edmonds (1-0, 1 KO), Worcester, MA 

WTKO1 (2:56) 

Francisco Neto (1-12), Woburn, MA 

            JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS 

Mike Ohan, Jr. (12-1, 6 KOs), Holbrook, MA 

WTKO1 (2:52) 

Rynell Griffin (8-46-2, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV 

WELTERWEIGHTS 

Eric Goff (1-0, 1 KO), Weymouth, MA 

WDEC4 (40-30, 40-34, 40-34) 

Jader Alves (0-5), Woburn, MA. 

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS 

Omar Borday, Jr. (11-1, 3 KOs), Danbury, CT 

WDEC8 (80-70, 79-72, 78-72 

Dewayne Wisdom (7-56-2, 3 KOs), Indianapolis, IN 

INFORMATION:   

Facebook.com/GraniteChin  

Twitter: @Granite_Chin 

Can Saunders Secure His Most Impressive Win to Date Over Lemieux?

Billy Joe Saunders will take to the ring on December 16 in Canada as the reigning and defending WBO middleweight champion, being the proud owner of a belt which he won way back in December 2015 when defeating fellow traveller Andy Lee. 

 

But since outpointing Irishman Lee with a majority decision success to become world champion at the Manchester Arena, Saunders has only defended it on two occasions, with unanimous decision triumphs over Artur Akavov and Willie Monroe Jr., more recently. 

 

Against game Russian Akavov, the undefeated world title holder was far from impressive and perhaps even lucky to get such a comfortable decision in the end at the Lagoon Leisure Centre on Scottish soil. The win over American challenger Monroe Jr was a lot better, having then undertaken Dominic Ingle as his newest coach. 

 

But the latter bout was still a drab affair and did nothing to further or boost Saunders’ appeal to a broader audience, as he outworked the New York-born southpaw quite comfortably. For most of the title defence, he was barely made to work at all, with Monroe having come in with a bizarrely inefficient gameplan. 

 

However, the 28-year-old will next face undoubtedly his toughest career test to date against former 160lbs champion David Lemieux, a far more serious challenge than an inexperienced and youthful Chris Eubank Jr, an indifferent Andy Lee and the far from threatening Willy Monroe Junior.

 

Hard-hitting Canadian Lemieux will enter the ring ropes as the evens outsider in the latest boxing odds to prevail on home territory, a promising price for a fighter on a strong surge of victories of late. Since being viciously stopped in a gallant showing against the division kingpin Gennady Golovkin in October 2015, the 28-year-old has earned four consecutive wins, including two big knockouts of Glen Tapia and Curtis Stevens. 


Of all the opponents Saunders has gone toe to toe with to date, none have possessed the punching power of Lemieux, and that could be a decisive factor come fight night. The latter home hope is promoted by Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy, who are seemingly keen to match the Canadian up with main cash cow Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez next year, rather than throw him in with ‘GGG’ once again in a highly awaited rematch. 

 

Despite being the favourite to prevail and maintain his unbeaten record on what will be his maiden venture outside of the UK in his professional career, it seems the odds are actually stacked against Saunders for this latest encounter.

 

It has been evident, too, that Saunders doesn’t boast the massive power capable of keeping a fleet-footed Lemieux away from the danger areas throughout their match-up. Knockout artist Lemieux produced what could eventually be voted stoppage of the year back in March when he brutally put Stevens’ lights out in New York City.

 

Could another vicious stoppage success be on the cards on home soil? It’s up to Saunders and Ingle to execute their upcoming gameplan perfectly to secure what would be a highly impressive victory on the road, but it looks likely of being a truly testing night in Quebec. 

BILLY JOE SAUNDERS DETHRONES ANDY LEE SATURDAY TO BECOME 12th CURRENT BRITISH WORLD CHAMPION ON SHO EXTREME® FROM MANCHESTER,ENGLAND

NEW YORK (Dec. 19, 2015) – Billy Joe Saunders dethroned WBO Middleweight World Champion Andy Lee with a 12-round majority decision Saturday on SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL from Manchester, England.

 

The fight, which was scored 115-111, 114-112 and 113-113,  will re-air tonight at 9 p.m. ET/PT on SHO EXTREME.

 

In a matchup of tactical southpaws, an explosive third round from Saunders (23-0, 12 KOs) was the difference.  The British challenger floored Lee twice – first with a big right hook and again with a counter right just 30 seconds later – and a dazed Lee somehow survived the 10-7 round. VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: http://s.sho.com/1OfibYe

 

The Irish Lee (34-3-1, 24 KOs) fought his way back and was the more aggressive fighter in the championship rounds, but it wasn’t enough to make up for a slow start and the two knockdowns.

 

With the win, Saunders became the 12th current British world champion.

 

“I’m world champion,” Saunders said.   “I beat a good champion today, a good sturdy champion.  I used his power against him.  When I was boxing he got a little bit careless and dropped his lead hand and I caught him with the hook.

 

“I’m not going to start running my mouth, but it was a good shot.  With someone as fast as me you have to keep your hands up.  I’m not the biggest puncher in the world, but I showed you there that I can punch.”

 

WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs, fresh off a first round knockout of Peter Quillin two weeks ago on SHOWTIME, was a guest analyst on Saturday from New York.

 

“I thought he was going to be a big brawler, I thought he had better assets,” Jacobs said of Lee.  “He didn’t do enough for me.  He was too complacent and after the knockdown you didn’t see that sense of urgency that a fighter has to have on the comeback trail.

 

“All credit due to Billy Joe, but it wasn’t an impressive victory.”

 

After watching the fight, Jacobs wasn’t ready to commit to a unification showdown in 2016 with the winner.

 

“We’ll do whatever makes sense,” Jacobs said.  “I think it’s time to sit-down and figure what makes sense.  Obviously it’s a good time to be a middleweight champion.”

 

ANDY LEE & BILLY JOE SAUNDERS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES FOR WBO MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD TITLE FIGHT

THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHO EXTREME®

SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL® Lee vs. Saunders
Airs Live at 5 p.m. ET/PT on SHO EXTREME; Encore Presentation at 9 p.m. ET/PT

“He’s not good enough to beat me.” – Andy Lee

“I’m not going to leave that ring without the title.” – Billy Joe Saunders

 

SHO VIDEO: http://s.sho.com/1ROfSkF

NEW YORK (Dec. 15, 2015) – WBO Middleweight World Champion Andy Lee and undefeated challenger Billy Joe Saunders held separate media workouts in Manchester, England, as they conclude preparations for their eagerly awaited showdown this Saturday, Dec. 19, live on SHO EXTREME  (5 p.m. ET/PT)from Manchester Arena.

 

Ireland’s Lee (34-2-1, 24 KOs) will make the first defense of his 160-pound title against England’s Saunders (22-0, 12 KOs), the WBO’s No. 1 middleweight contender.

 

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL offering of theBoxNation telecast will feature analysis from SHOWTIME boxing experts Brian Custer, Al Bernstein and Paulie Malignaggibefore and after the world championship showdown.  An encore presentation of the bout will air on SHO EXTREME later that evening at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Here’s what Lee and Saunders had to say at their media workouts on Tuesday and Monday, respectively:

 

ANDY LEE:

“I have a punch that can end a fight, lights out, in any given second.

 

“I won’t rely on the punch.  I will look to dominate from the start with educated pressure.

 

“I’m feeling very dangerous at the moment.

 

“Saunders’ unbeaten record is a disadvantage.  He’s always been in fights he’s expected to win and has been well managed by(Frank) Warren.

 

“I’ve never lost a fight on points and I never will on points.  If I’m down on the cards I will go out swinging in the last round.

 

“Saunders being a fellow traveler does add another layer, but at the end the day it’s about how good you are and he’s not good enough to beat me.”

 

BILLY JOE SAUNDERS:

“I’m ready to go for Saturday night.  This is the best camp that I’ve ever had.  I’m prepared for the toughest test of my career, but I know that I’m in excellent shape to win this fight and become world champion.

 

“Andy Lee is a tough fighter – he’s proved that by becoming world champion and having the type of career he has had. But I’m undefeated and hungry and know that I’m on the brink of fulfilling a childhood dream.  I’m not going to leave that ring without the title.

 

“Training in Spain allows me to lock myself away from all distractions and focus solely on the fight.  It’s hard being away from home, but it’s all part of boxing.  It’s been a long camp, a tough camp, but after that I know that I’m ready to go through hell to make sure that I’m successful come fight night.

 

“The middleweight division is one of the hottest around and I’m prepared to fight any of the other champions in there once I win the title.

 

Danny Jacobs had a great win against Peter Quillin, and then there is Canelo (Alvarez) and (Gennady) Golovkin.  I know the importance of this fight for the division and I want my name to be among the very best.  I’m taking it one step at a time, but I’m open to fight anyone.

 

“There has been no trash talk with Andy because we know what each person is about.  We share a similar background and neither of us is going to take a back step.

 

“This is going to be a very exciting all-action fight because we’re going to leave it all in the ring.  I know I have the skills to beat him and I intend to show the world why I’m among the best around.”

 

Saunders on fellow Brit Chris Eubank Jr.:

 

“The truth of the matter is that Eubank Jr. does not belong at the world level – he’s a phony. It’s as simple as that.  I wasn’t impressed with his win over Gary O’Sullivan, who I’ve already beat.  He thinks he can fool the public with a win like that, but he can’t.

 

“His aim now is to move up and fight the best guys in the world, but we saw what happened the last time he stepped up a notch and faced me: he was badly exposed.  The same thing will happen with him if he fights someone like Danny Jacobs for the WBA title.

 

“You’re not the best middleweight in your own country and you want to fight a world champion and say you’re going to beat him?  I think it’s a delusion and he thinks he’s greater than he actually is.

 

“Sooner rather than later he’s going to get exposed again as the fraud that he is.  You can keep talking, but eventually you have to back it up in the ring against top-level fighters.  He’s won his last fight and now he’s back talking (expletive) again like he’s the best fighter in history.

 

“If he has the balls to fight again, which I doubt, I would happily hand him another beating, this time in even more convincing fashion.”

SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO TELEVISE WBO MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD TITLE FIGHT BETWEEN ANDY LEE AND BILLY JOE SAUNDERS ON SATURDAY, DEC. 19, LIVE FROM MANCHESTER, ENGLAND

 

 SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL® Lee vs. Saunders
Airs Live At 5 p.m. ET/PT on SHO EXTEME

 

NEW YORK (Dec. 1, 2015) – SHOWTIME Sports® will present the WBO Middleweight World Championship between defending titlist Andy Lee and unbeaten challenger Billy Joe Saunders on Saturday, Dec. 19, live on SHO EXTREME  (5 p.m. ET/PT) from Manchester, England.

 

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL offering of the Box Nation telecast will feature analysis from SHOWTIME boxing experts Brian Custer, Al Bernstein and Paulie Malignaggi before and after the world championship showdown.  An encore presentation of the bout will air on SHO EXTREME later that evening at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

 

“We’re excited to deliver this important matchup of top middleweights to the U.S. audience,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager of SHOWTIME Sports. “The 160-pound class is one of boxing’s hottest and deepest divisions right now, and the winner of this fight should position himself for a major showdown or unification in 2016.”

 

Ireland’s Lee (34-2-1, 24 KOs) won the vacant WBO title with a sixth-round TKO of then-undefeated Matt Korbov in December 2014.  The 6-foot-2, 31-year old was on a six-fight win streak before boxing a split 12-round draw with undefeated former champion Peter Quillin on April 11, 2015, in Brooklyn.  Both fighters went down in a highly competitive scrap that was scored 113-112 for Quillin, 113-112 for Lee and 113-113.

 

Before turning pro Lee was a top amateur and represented Ireland in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.

 

“It’s great that my fans in the U.S. will get to see the fight between me and Saunders and I guarantee it’s going to be exciting,” Lee said.

 

Saunders (22-0, 12 KOs), of Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom, is the WBO’s No. 1 middleweight contender.  The 26-year-old is coming off a fourth-round TKO over Yoannan Bloyer last July 24 in London.

 

Two starts ago, in the most note-worth victory of his career, the 5-foot-11, Saunders took a 12-round split decision over Chris Eubank Jr. on Nov. 29, 2014, in London. All but one of Saunders’ fights have taken place in England; the other was Northern Ireland.

 

Saunders was also an accomplished amateur; he represented England in the 2008 Olympic Games as a welterweight at the age of 18. Saunders is the great-grandson of one of Britain’s most famous gypsy bare-knuckle champions, Absolom Beeney.

 

“This is a massive night for me and I’m excited that it’s going out live to America,” Saunders said.  “The U.S. viewers will get to see just what I can do when I face Lee and become world champion.  It’s a big boost for me and takes the fight to another level when American TV comes on board and then you know it’s a big fight on the world stage.  I hope that (Gennady) Golovkin and (Miguel) Cotto will be both watching because I’m fast approaching their level and they’ll get to see what I’m all about.”

 

Promoter Frank Warren said, “I’m delighted that SHOWTIME will now be televising Lee vs. Saunders live in the U.S. as it confirms the importance of this fight on the world scene.  My relationship with the network goes back many years with fights like Joe Calzaghe vs. Jeff Lacy, Ricky Hatton vs. Kostya Tszyu, Frank Bruno vs. Oliver McCall, plus Naseem Hamed and Nigel Benn fights.  I believe that Lee vs. Saunders will be another great fight to add to that list because of what’s at stake for both fighters.  What lies ahead for the winner will make them fight to their very best.”

DANNY GARCIA REMAINS UNDEFEATED WITH MAJORITY DECISION OVER LAMONT PETERSON DURING SATURDAY’S EDITION OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FROM BARCLAYS CENTER

 

ANDY LEE AND PETER QUILLIN BATTLE TO DRAW

IN EXPLOSIVE BOUT

 

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Photo Credit: Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions

 

BROOKLYN (April 12, 2015) – Premier Boxing Champions on NBC returned with two exciting bouts Saturday night as Danny “Swift” Garcia (30-0, 17 KOs) defeated Lamont Peterson (33-3-1, 17 KOs) by majority decision and “Irish” Andy Lee (34-2-1, 24 KOs) and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (31-0-1, 22 KOs) fought to a split draw at Barclays Center.

 

The evening’s second main event saw the undefeated Garcia stalk the lightning quick Peterson around the ring while consistently attacking Peterson’s body. Peterson moved well in the first half of the fight, but did not begin engaging offensively until the later rounds.

 

The two exchanged blows throughout a raucous twelfth round that stirred the crowd of 12,300 at Barclays Center into a frenzy. The judges tallies ended at 115-113 for Garcia twice and one score of 114-114.

 

“I feel great. I prepared for a war. He was moving a lot. I thought it was close, not going to lie,” said Garcia. “It was definitely close the whole way through. I did enough to win and I’m happy with my performance.

 

[On going up in weight]  “I feel like I have to go up. It’s affecting my performance, but I feel like I did a great job.”

 

“I did my part. I’m not calling it a robbery but it was a good fight,” said Peterson. “I don’t expect an easy journey for me to get where I’m going. I feel great. That’s probably the least contact I’ve ever had in a fight.”

 

In the first main event, Quillin scored a huge knockdown in the first round and followed it up by putting Lee on the canvas in round three. Lee made adjustments as the fight went on and began to box Quillin effectively, even putting him down in the seventh round.

 

Lee and Quillin landed almost the same percentage of punches with Lee connecting on 38 percent and Quillin on 39 percent. One judge scored the bout 113-112 for Lee with another scoring the bout 113-112 for Quillin and the final had a score of 113-113.

 

“There’s a reason why judges are judges. They see it their way. I respect the decision,” said Quillin.

 

[On being knocked down] “There’s a first time for everything. I’m very thankful that I was able to get back up and keep fighting. I took a year off and I was able to go 12-rounds and I could have kept going.”

 

“It was a tough fight. He dropped me early because I was being lazy. I got my momentum late in the fight and I boxed consistently. I understand why with two knockdowns people felt he won the decision. I could have done better tonight. If my next fight is Peter Quillin.”

 

Premier Boxing Champions on NBC was promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.nbcsports.com/boxing,www.BarclaysCenter.com and www.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @DannySwift, @KingPete26, @KidChocolate, @AndyLeeBoxing, @RealLuisCollazo, @NBCSports and @BarclaysCenter and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/NBCSports and www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. Follow the conversation using #PremierBoxingChampions and #BKBoxing.

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

BROOKLYN (April 9, 2015) – As Saturday’s fight night rapidly approaches, fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBC night of fights held a final press conference Thursday at the Edison Ballroom in New York City.

 

PBC on NBC main event bouts at Barclays Center feature undefeated superstar Danny “Swift” Garcia (29-0, 17 KOs) facing Lamont Peterson (33-2-1, 17 KOs) and the middleweight championship bout between “Irish” Andy Lee (34-2, 24 KOs) and undefeated Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (31-0, 22 KOs). The second installment of PBC on NBC begins at 8:30 p.m. ET.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $300, $200, $150, $100, $80 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now.Tickets are available at www.barclayscenter.com, www.ticketmaster.comand at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. For group tickets, please call 800-GROUP-BK.

 

Here are what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference:

 

DANNY GARCIA

 

“I’ve been working on fighting hard, but also smart. I’m going to go in there and dictate the pace and I’m always looking for the knockout. If I can’t knock him out then I’ll be ready to go 12 rounds.

 

“It’s always hard making weight, but I’m on weight now. Right now I’m growing into my prime and my body is getting bigger and it’ll be time soon for me to go up in weight.

 

“I’m looking at this as a very big fight. So I’m going in there mentally and physically ready. He’s coming to fight and I’m coming to fight. Saturday is going to be about who can make the right adjustments.

 

“I love Brooklyn. This is my fourth fight here and I’ve heard that the tickets for this fight are selling faster than any other fight they’ve held here. So I must be doing something right in Brooklyn. The atmosphere is great at Barclays Center.

 

“I’ve always felt that I’m one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. I’ve won a lot of big fights with a lot of great fighters, and my goal is just continue winning one fight at a time.”

 

LAMONT PETERSON

 

“Danny’s talk makes no difference to me. I think I’m even more confident than him and I’ll get the victory Saturday night and that will be that.

 

“The stakes are high. This can definitely push me to the next level in this boxing game. I’ve been at the top for a while but there’s a difference between being at the top and being an elite fighter. I think this will solidify me as an elite fighter.

 

“I looked at a few of Danny’s fights but nothing really stood out to me. I know Danny is a counterpuncher, that’s what he does. We’ve come up with a game plan to stop that.

 

“I’m a different person than the other guys Danny has fought. I’m a different person with a different style. I trust myself to make adjustments in the ring.

 

“This fight will be different than either of our fights with Matthysse. It’s two different fights and styles make fights. There will be different results. I had to prepare for Danny Garcia and Danny Garcia had to prepare for me.

 

“There’s no pressure fighting on this big card, but I know what it brings. This brings more exposure and I want to use that exposure in the right way. I know I’m looked up to as a role model and I just want to use this exposure.

 

“This will put a big spotlight on boxing and I’m happy to be a part of it.

 

“I’m ready to fight, I’ve prepared well and I’m ready to put on a show.”

 

ANDY LEE

 

“I’m eager to fight and ready to go. I’m feeling very dangerous right now.

 

“My ring generalship is one thing, but overall I feel like I have a good idea of what I want to do in the ring. Peter has an idea too, but it’s more moment to moment for him, which can be good as well, when you improvise. I’m more of a guy who will set you up and work to a plan.

 

“Coming back and winning a fight really strengthens your resolve. You know in your mind that at any time, you have a chance of winning. I never plan to be behind but it happens. This time I plan to lead from the front.

 

“Peter is offensive, which leaves openings. He might be cautious for a while because both of us know that we might pay the price of being offensive. Eventually we’ll exchange and it will be explosive one way of the other.

 

“I’m a southpaw puncher who can box and I’ve never been in a dull fight. I have a ‘never say die’ attitude and I’m not someone who is just going to go out there and play it safe. I’ll risk it all to win.

 

“My confidence is very high. I’m the champion of the world and there’s no higher station than that in boxing. I’m the champion and he’ll have to come and take my title.”

 

PETER QUILLIN

 

“Everyone tune in on April 11 because we’re going to do more than just try to take that belt, we’re going to take that belt because that’s what we do.

 

“Andy is the champion of the world but this is the second time I’ve been the challenger to a world champion. I’ve been here before. I know he’s a newly crowned champion so I have nothing bad to say about him.

 

“Andy’s greatest strength is that he lost twice and was able to come back and make himself look very good.

 

“This is a totally different caliber fight than either of us has had. I’m not any of those fighters that he’s faced. I can’t go in there and try to fight like a Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.

 

“I’m only concerned about working hard, which I’ve done every day leading up to this fight. So I have no concerns at all.

 

“I’m motivated period. My heart is built on motivation in all things. Talking to media, being on NBC, fighting for the belt and being a positive person. I’m thankful that every day I can put out a positive story about myself.”

 

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

 

“We have a great night of boxing from beginning to end, you will be hearing a lot more from these young fighters.

 

“If you want to see everything, get there to Barclays Center at 5 p.m.

 

“We’re very thrilled that this is going to be televised in primetime on NBC. PBC on NBC. It has a nice ring to it.

 

“The first main event of the evening features Andy Lee, middleweight champion and the fighting pride of Limerick. He is a warrior, he’s at the most confident point of his career and he’s going to need to be because he’s fighting an undefeated champion.

 

“Peter Quillin makes Brooklyn his home. It’s his third fight at Barclays Center and he has a perfect record of 31-0. He’s going to try to take Andy’s belt, but it won’t be easy.

 

“The bout that will close the show is one of the most eagerly anticipated bouts in all of boxing. Lamont Peterson is noted for being one of the most technically sound boxers in the game and he has an outstanding record to a back it up.

 

“Danny Garcia really embodies what it means to be a Philadelphia fighter. He’s a tough guy with an undefeated record. He’s going to look to keep that record perfect against Lamont Peterson.”

 

JON MILLER, President, Programming, NBC Sports & NBCSN

 

“On behalf of NBC Sports we’re thrilled to be a part of this and to be in our own backyard. We couldn’t pick a better venue than Barclays Center. The card put together is spectacular. There are great fights once again and we’re excited about the progress that this new property has taken for us.

 

“I think one of the most unique things about this Saturday night is that it’s going to make history in television because three of the most venerable and outstanding sports television personalities will be working together for the first time as Al Michaels will be our host, Marv Albert will be doing play-by-play and for the first time ever they will be joined by Bob Costas.

 

“These three iconic figures have worked Olympics and Super Bowls but it’s the first time they’ve ever worked together on one event and that is a tribute to what the entire has put together in delivering this great card.”

 

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Barclays Center

 

This Saturday marks a historic moment for Barclays Center as we host our 11thprofessional boxing event and our first Premier Boxing Champions event.

 

“When you combine the talent in the ring, the production of the show and the iconic broadcasting team of Al Michael, Bob Costas and Marv Albert plus boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard this will be one of the best fight nights that New York has hosted in decades.

 

“Signifying the magnitude of the event, tickets have sold faster than at any other boxing show Barclays Center has hosted.

 

“At Barclays Center, we have not only served as a launch pad for many local boxers’ careers, but have relished in the role of becoming the home for Champions.”

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Photo Credit: Angela Cranford/Barclays Center

 

BROOKLYN (April 7, 2015) – Fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBC night of fights participated in a media workout today at Barclays Center in anticipation of their upcoming bouts.

 

PBC on NBC main event bouts at Barclays Center feature undefeated superstar Danny “Swift” Garcia (29-0, 17 KOs) facing Lamont Peterson (33-2-1, 17 KOs) and the middleweight championship bout between “Irish” Andy Lee (34-2, 24 KOs) and undefeated Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (31-0, 22 KOs). The second installment of PBC on NBC begins at 8:30 p.m. ET.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $300, $200, $150, $100, $80 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now.Tickets are available at www.barclayscenter.com, www.ticketmaster.comand at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. For group tickets, please call 800-GROUP-BK.

 

Here are what the fighters had to say at Tuesday’s workout:

 

DANNY GARCIA

 

“I just want to give the fans a great fight. I want them to see the best Danny Garcia. At the end of the day, this is the fight the fans want to see. My main focus is putting on a great show for the fans.

 

“I’ve faced a lot of skillful boxers in my career and I’m still undefeated. That should tell the fans around the world who has more skill. Come April 11 when he’s feeling these two bombs on his face he’s going to forget about his skill.

 

“I just want to give fans a great fight. I’m not too worried about the ‘0’ on my record. I fight hard to protect it but my main focus is to go in there and get the job done one fight at a time.

 

“Everything I’ve done in my career is for a reason. Now I’m here on NBC fighting on this big playing field. This is great for boxing and a breath of fresh air for the sport.

 

“I just want to be confident and humble at the same time. I want the fans to love me because I’m being myself. It’s very important for a young champion.

 

“I’m going to try to dictate the pace, be smart, move my head, use my feet and land good punches. I can’t try to chase him down.

 

“I used to love other great Puerto Rican boxers like Felix Trinidad, Miguel Cotto and Hector Camacho. I feel like I’m definitely working my way up into the ranks with them and following their footsteps.

 

“I have to be smart in the ring. I have to go in there and be Danny Garcia. I’m here because I’m a smart fighter. Everyone knows that. I have power. I’m going to find my opening and capitalize on his mistakes.”

 

 

LAMONT PETERSON

 

“This is just another fight for me. I’m not worried about being the main event. I just love to fight. As long as I’m fighting I’m happy.

 

“A lot of people see us fight and see us take punches, but that’s just the easy part. The sacrifice in the gym and putting my body through punishment is the rough part.

 

“I’m not trying to prove anyone wrong, but this fight is important to me and I want to win it. I want to be the top guy and that means beating the top guy.

 

“People talk about him beating Matthysse and Matthysse beating me, but anyone who knows about boxing knows that doesn’t mean anything. Come Saturday night I will prove to everyone that I’m a better fighter than Danny Garcia.

 

“Angel Garcia has his opinion on this fight, and I respect it. He can go on record and say anything he wants, but if he says Danny Garcia is stronger than me, I’ll tell you that’s a lie.

 

“We’re not worried about Danny’s power. A lot of people have asked me about that but I’m not worried. Danny Garcia had a split decision with Kendall Holt, who I knocked out. No one seems to mention that.

 

“I’m comfortable with whatever way this fight goes. I’m almost guaranteeing the win.

 

“I don’t think they’re taking me lightly. At the end of the day, Garcia knows this is a fight and he knows he hasn’t fought anyone like me. I’m expecting a big victory Saturday night.

 

“You never know what you’re going to see with me. Whatever I feel like I need to do to win, that’s what I’ll do. I’m prepared 100 percent. I’m in shape for 30 rounds and I’ll be ready for anything. ”

 

ANDY LEE

 

“We’ve made unbelievable progress in the last year on my skills and everything has really just clicked for me and my team and now we’re seeing the results in the ring.

 

“I’m very proud to be an Irishman from Limerick defending his world championship in New York, it doesn’t get much better than that.

 

“There’s been a huge weight lifted off my shoulders since winning the world-title. It’s what I always wanted to do and I’ve been touted as a champion for years and if I never got it I would have been disappointed. Now the monkey is off my back and I can just box and show people who I am.

 

“We’ve made physical and tactical improvements in the gym since the last fight and hopefully they’ll show up in the ring on Saturday.

 

“I think this could be a technical fight or it could be a bit of a fire fight. It’s going to be a little of both at times. There will be moments where we’re looking at each other, figuring each other out, but once we exchange it could be explosive.

 

“Quillin is sure of himself, but he has to be, I have the same mentality. You have to be to compete in this sport.

 

“Fighting at home like Quillin is on Saturday, brings a different kind of pressure to the table, it’s the pressure of expectations and people you know coming to the fights. That’s also pressure and I know all about that.

 

“I haven’t needed to build up my confidence for this fight. It’s not time to think. It’s time to do what I’ve been doing every day in the gym.”

 

PETER QUILLIN

 

“I never trailed in a fight and came back and won like Lee. I’ve just won all the time right out of the gate. Those other guys aren’t ‘Kid Chocolate’ so I think that’s why this fight was made.

 

“It’s a big fight for him and a big fight for me. He’s a smart fighter when he’s in trouble so I have to watch out for that. Most importantly I just need to be true to myself.

 

“A lot of people had Lee as the underdog in his last fight but he came out and did great. That’s the thing about boxing; one punch can change the fight.

 

“I’m getting paid for 12 rounds so I’m preparing for 12 rounds but if I can get him out of there early I will.

 

“My whole life has been struggles and I’ve had to overcome every single one of those struggles. This is going to be no different from that.

 

“Being a father of course made me more inspired and watching my uncle pass has made me more motivated than ever to accomplish everything I want.

 

“When I gave up the belt I learned that I can be a bigger man and make tough decisions like that all of the time. People think losing is easy, but winning all the time is a different kind of pressure.”

 

ERROL SPENCE JR.

 

“I am the best young prospect in the game. I’m on the borderline of contender status and I believe I’m one fight away from being a contender.

 

“I’m a little bit of a mix style-wise. I’m a boxer, I can punch and I can fight if I have to.

 

“The fight I learned the most from was with Emanuel Lartey, he was undefeated along with me and it was my first real fight and first time going the distance.

 

“I see myself fighting all the top guys in the welterweight division. I see myself with Keith Thurman, Amir Khan and any top welterweight.

 

“I’m going to look good as always on Saturday night, It’s going to be fantastic and I’m going to come out with the victory.”

 

MARCUS BROWNE

 

“I’m just blessed to have this opportunity to fight at Barclays Center for the eighth time in front of my hometown fans.

 

“I love performing in in Brooklyn. The fans here are fantastic and they know when I get in the ring they’re going to see something special.

 

“I have a tough opponent in front of me. He’s experienced, very lanky fighter but we’ve trained very hard and I’m ready for anything he’s got.

 

Saturday is going to be a great night for Team Browne, Staten Island and all of my fans. Don’t blink cause you might miss it!”

 

LUIS COLLAZO

 

“I’ve spent some time with the family, regrouping and making sure I still have the same passion for this sport. I’m excited to be back and I jumped at the opportunity to be on this card.

 

“This is what I live for. Boxing is my life.

 

“After the Khan fight I took about a month off and then I went straight to the gym. I couldn’t go out like I did against Khan. No excuses, but it was time to go back to the drawing board and stay motivated throughout the whole year.

 

“The fans can expect the same excitement I always bring. I’m more motivated now and hopefully after this fight I can get a big fight and give the fans what they want.”

 

HEATHER HARDY

 

“I have the same mindset going into every fight. I train to fight my fight and make adjustments when get in there.

 

“I feel strong and I feel capable of whatever needs to be done.

 

“I’ve only been boxing for four years so I’m still learning a lot of boxing technique in camp plus working three or four days a week with my strength and conditioning coach.

 

“Fans can expect a good show and a big win out me on Saturday.”

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FIGHTERS ANDY LEE, PETER QUILLIN, MARCUS BROWNE & HEATHER HARDY RING NYSE CLOSING BELL®

 

Click HERE For Photos

Photo Credit: NYSE/Valerie Caviness

Click HERE for Replay Of The Ceremony

 

BROOKLYN (April 6, 2015) – Fighters Andy Lee, Peter Quillin, Marcus Browne and Heather Hardy, who are fighting on Saturday night on the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC show at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, participated in the ringing of the NYSE Closing Bell® today. Fighters were joined by Barclays Center CEO Brett Yormark, DiBella Entertainment President Lou DiBella, Swanson Communications President Kelly Swanson, Barclays Center Chief Communications Officer Barry Baum, and Haymon Boxing Vice President of Communications Tim Smith for the ceremony.

 

Click to see photos and a replay from today’s ceremony at NYSE.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $300, $200, $150, $100, $80 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.barclayscenter.comwww.ticketmaster.com and at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. For group tickets, please call 800-GROUP-BK.

 

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