Tag Archives: boxing

boxing, Showtime Boxing

 Q&A WITH TOP PROSPECT ANTOINE DOUGLAS AS HE PREPARES TO FACE FELLOW UNBEATEN THOMAS LAMANNA THIS FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

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ShoBox: The New Generation LIVE on SHOWTIME
This Friday, March 13 at 10 p.m. ET/PT From Westbury, N.Y.

Photo Credit:  Stephanie Trapp / SHOWTIME
For Immediate Release

WESTBURY, N.Y. (March 9, 2015) – Undefeated middleweight Antoine Douglas(16-0-1, 10 KOs) is one of boxing’s fastest-rising prospects. Just 23 years old, the aggressive and exciting Washington, D.C., native will make his 2015 debut thisFriday, March 13 against fellow unbeaten Thomas LaManna (16-0, 7 KOs) in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

Douglas, who is 1-0-1 in two ShoBox appearances, is looking to prove that he’s earned the moniker “Action” when he faces an opponent who – like himself – has never lost or touched the canvas. More importantly, he’s aiming to continue to erase any doubt about his future as a contender at 160 pounds. Douglas has won two in a row since boxing a hard-fought 10-round majority draw with former world title challengerMichel Soro (23-1-1 going in) last July 25 on ShoBox.

Here’s what Douglas had to say as he prepares for a breakout 2015:

How would you say your career is going?
“My career is going great so far. I am very satisfied with the pace of my career. I’m right where we want to be and in position for a big year.”

Neither one of you has been knocked down as a professional. Do you expect that to change on March 13?
“I really don’t expect anything going into a fight. I just want to put on a great show and put on a great fight. Give it my all.”

You’ve faced the tougher opposition as a pro. How do you stay focused and not look past an opponent?
“This is the sport of boxing and one punch can change any fight. Any fighter has the capability of hurting me so I don’t overlook anyone. LaManna is undefeated. He’s never lost, so I can’t look past him. Anything can happen in there.”

What do you know about LaManna and what kind of fight do you expect?
“I know that he’s tall and has a long reach. I really don’t know what to expect. I know that he tends to lock up to try to stay in a defensive position. I need to take advantage of that by going on the offensive.”

After what you’ve overcome as a youngster, do you consider yourself a survivor? Did boxing save you?
“I wouldn’t consider myself just a survivor. I would consider myself a fighter. I had a lot to fight for in my youth. Boxing helped me get through my issues. It provided me with instruction and discipline. Around the age of 14 I really took control of my life and became a man. I felt like I needed to treat myself as a man.

“When I was in a foster home at 14, my two guardians split up and I was in a position where I needed to make a decision to choose which path to go down. I wouldn’t be in the position I am in today if I didn’t make the decision I made. There weren’t people around me to point me in the right direction, I was on my own. If there were people that were supportive of me, I wasn’t expecting it. I was in the position that I was making the decision solely for myself.”

Getting serious here – your mother was in and out of your life growing up. What keeps you so loyal to her after everything that you’ve been through?
“I understand the fact that everyone goes through things in their life. It’s easy to tell them what they should do. It takes a lot to put your pride aside to be considerate of what people are going through. Too many people put themselves first over others. I took a step back and realized that everything happens for a reason and look how I turned out today. My mother and I have a great relationship now because I was understanding of her situation and didn’t take anything she did intentionally or think that it was directed towards me.”

What did you learn from your last ShoBox fight versus Soro)?. Do you view it as a positive or negative?
“I view the fight with Soro as a positive. In that fight I got down in weight, the smallest I have been in a while. I was at 155 instead of my usual weight of 160. Shedding the pounds really had a big impact on the fight and I realized I am a middleweight and feel comfortable at 160.”

That the Soro fight was called a majority draw — was that a disappointment for you? How did you learn from that?
“It was a great disappointment for me to get a draw, but we know now not to go any smaller than 160. That’s the main thing we learned in that fight. There is such a thing as being too disciplined. People noticed how skinny I was for that fight, but being a disciplined fighter I was determined to make weight. A lot of opponents wouldn’t have taken that fight but it was an opportunity that I wanted to take advantage of. I thought it was a good decision at the time, but I learned a valuable lesson.”

You knocked a guy’s tooth out in your first ShoBox fight (Jan. 17, 2014, versus Marquis Davis) and your mom stole the show in your last appearance. What do you have in store for viewers on March 13?
“I mean, I’m just planning for a great fight. That’s all I can guarantee. I’m not one for superstitions [Friday The 13th]. I can just guarantee it will be a great fight.”

What is your biggest strength? Are you looking for the knockout or do you believe you can go 10 rounds and get the victory that way?
“I believe I can bang for 10 rounds, but that all depends on the opponent. Some guys are strong enough who can go the full 10 rounds. I go in and try to inflict the most amount of damage from the opening bell.

“My biggest strength is my will and determination. There’s never a moment where I want to give up. Even if I get hurt in the ring, I won’t succumb to the fighter. Those are the thoughts that go through my head.”

Jerry Odom is also on this card and you both are from the DC area. You have stated that you two are like roommates. What does it mean to have him on the card with you?
“It means a lot for me. We come from similar humble beginnings and for us to be on the same card is historic for us. We both carry the same common goal and we have a lot that we are fighting for. Being able to do this on such a big stage on SHOWTIME and prove all the naysayers wrong means the world to us. It makes it that much more worth it and fulfilling for us, especially if we both get the victory.”

Your prediction?
“I predict a victory. I have trained and worked very hard for this and am ready to put on a show.”

In the co-feature, unbeaten southpaw Ismael Barroso (16-0-2, 15 KOs), of El Tigre, Venezuela, will shoot for his 13th consecutive victory when he faces Issouf “Volcano” Kinda (17-2, 7 KOs), of Bronx, N.Y., in a 10-round scrap for the NABO Lightweight Title. In an eight-round featured bout, once-beaten Jerry “The King’s Son” Odom (12-1, 1 NC, 11 KOs), of Washington D.C., will try and avenge his lone loss when he takes on undefeated Andrew “Hurricane” Hernandez (8-0-1, 1 ND, 1 KO) of Phoenix, Ariz., in a super middleweight rematch. In the opening bout, Adam Lopez (9-0, 4 KOs), of San Antonio, and Houston’s Pablo Cruz (11-0, 3 KOs) clash in an eight-round battle of Lone Star State super bantamweights.

Advance tickets for the event promoted by GH3 Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions in association with David Schuster’s Winner Take All Productions,are priced at $150, $125, and $60 for general admission. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations, thespacewestbury.com, The Space at Westbury Box Office at 516.283.5566 or by calling the GCP Office at 212.851.6425.

The event is sponsored by Foxwoods Resort Casino & Westbury Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge and Ram Dealership & Maxim Group.
boxing

MEDZHID “B-52” BEKTEMIROV MAKES 2015 DEBUT IN TEXAS THIS FRIDAY

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HOUSTON, TEXAS (February 12, 2015) – Co-promoters Gary Shaw Productions and Savarese Promotions are happy to announce the 2015 debut of Light-Heavyweight Russian power puncher, Medzhidm “B-52” Bektemirov (14-0, 11 KOs). The undefeated slugger will face James Johnson (28-44-4, 17 KOs) in a 6-round bout at the “Battle on the Mainland” card taking place at the Charles Doyle Convention Center in Texas City, TX on March 13, 2015.

 

Bektemiorov, who’s knocked out six of his last eight opponents, is looking to keep the momentum going with a spectacular performance.  His mindset is to come out guns blazing and go for the knockout early.

 

“My trainer Ronnie Shields has me working on a lot of different things, but he’s not trying to change my style,” said Bektemirov. “He wants me to stay aggressive without being reckless.  I’m ready to drop bombs, hence my name B-52. If the fight goes the distance, I’ll make sure that my opponent takes a lot of punishment.  I want to thank Gary and Lou for coming together to take my career to the next level. Everything starts this Friday in Texas City.”

 

“I’m very pleased from what I’m hearing about B-52’s sparring sessions,” said Gary Shaw. “He’s a tremendous puncher with good footwork. With a veteran trainer like Ronnie Shields guiding the corner, I see him developing into a great fighter.”

 

“This kid can go,” Lou Savarese stated. “I know we got something special Bektemirov.  His name “B-52” serves him well because he really does drop bombs.  I’ve seen him take out a lot of dudes in the gym.  I can’t wait to see him get to work this Friday.”

 

“Battle of the Mainland” tickets priced $35 (general admission), $75 (Table seats) and $100 (Ringside) are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (713) 658-0229 or online at www.SavaresePromotions.com.  The Charles Doyle Conventions Center is located at 2010 5th Ave N, Texas City, TX, 77590.

boxing

Rainone Tops Untelevised Undercard This Friday at The Space at Westbury in Westbury, New York

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Local favorite Tommy “Razor” Rainone will face Saint Paul, Minnesota, veteran Allen Litzau (14-8, 7 KOs) in a six-round welterweight battle to headline the undercard for this Friday, March 13‘s exciting night of televised boxing from The Space at Westbury in Westbury, New York.

Rainone vs. Litzau will be the featured untelevised undercard bout in support of the live four-fight broadcast of ShoBox: The New Generation (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) featuring a 10-round middleweight main event between Washington, D.C.’s Undefeated middleweight Antoine Douglas (16-0-1, 10 KOs) and fellow unbeaten Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna (16-0, 7 KOs) of Millville, New Jersey, for the WBA-FEDELATIN Middleweight Championship, as well as The SHOWTIME debut of unbeaten southpaw Ismael Barroso (16-0-2, 15 KOs), of El Tigre, Venezuela, taking on Issouf “Volcano” Kinda (17-2, 7 KOs), of Bronx, N.Y., in a 10-round battle for the NABO Lightweight Championship.

In other televised action, Jerry “The King’s Son” Odom (12-1, 1 NC, 11 KOs), of Washington D.C., will attempt to avenge his only career loss when he takes on undefeated Andrew “Hurricane” Hernandez (8-0-1, 1 ND, 1 KO) of Phoenix, Arizona, in an eight-round super middleweight rematch. In the opening bout, Adam Lopez (9-0, 4 KOs), of San Antonio, and Houston’s Pablo Cruz (11-0, 3 KOs) clash in an eight-round battle of Lone Star State super bantamweights.

Tickets for the event, promoted by GH3 Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions in association with David Schuster’s Winner Take All Productions, are priced at $150, $125, and $60 for general admission and available at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations, thespacewestbury.com, The Space at Westbury Box Office at 516.283.5566 or by calling the GCP Office at 212.851.6425. The event is sponsored by Foxwoods Resort Casino & Westbury Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge and Ram Dealership & Maxim Group.

In other undercard action, Patricia Alcivar (7-3, 3 KOs) of Queens, New York, will face British Columbia, Canada’s Peggy Maerz (2-6-1) in a women’s six-round flyweight battle; New York’s Rich Neves (8-1-1, 4 KOs) will battle San Diego, California’s Joshua Marks (8-5-1, 8 KOs) in a six-round super welterweight bout; and opening the action will be Dave Meloni (1-1, 1 KO) will face Richard Bonds (0-2) of Newburgh, New York, in a four-round super featherweight bout.
boxing

One Man Wrecking Crew; Lippe-Morrison Obliterates Dawson in Miami!

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Miami, OK (March 8, 2015) – Coming into yesterday’s bout before a standing room only crowd at the Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, OK, heavyweight Richard Dawson was confident he’d take out Trey Lippe-Morrison.

 

Dawson, who called all of Lippe-Morrison’s previous foes bums, owns a victory over Ty Cobb (16-3) and had never been knocked down or stopped. Against the hard-hitting Lippe-Morrison, Dawson was expected to provide rounds for his popular 25-year-old old foe, who knocked out five of his first six opponents in the opening stanza. Instead, he became another first round victim.

 

Headlining Holden Productions’ “Four State Franchise” fight card, Lippe-Morrison demolished Dawson in two minutes and one second. Dawson got off to a good start and looked confident, taking the fight to Morrison while displaying good defensive movement. The Tulsa,OK native quickly turned the tides however, blastingDawson with a vicious right hand followed by a hard left hook that literally dropped him like a sack of potatoes. After sending Lippe-Morrison to the neutral corner, Referee Gerald Ritter stopped the fight as Dawson was out cold.

 

“This was a great victory for Trey,” said promoter Tony Holden. “In the first minute of the fight, Dawson looked like he was going to give Trey all kinds of problems and even landed some good punches. Trey showed great poise and landed two perfect punches to end the fight. I’m very proud of him and he’s a tremendous puncher that will only improve his boxing skills over time.”

 

The son of former heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison, Lippe-Morrison is 7-0 with all of his wins coming by way of knockout. Dawson, an Okmulgee, OKnative, falls to 5-3-2 with three knockouts.

 

In the co-featured bout of the evening, heavyweight Kenzie Witt of Bartlesville, OK blitzed Kansas City,MO’s Brian Imes. From the opening bell, Witt overwhelmed Imes and scored two quick knockdowns, forcing Ritter to halt the contest at 1:32 of the first.

 

Witt, who is Lippe-Morrison’s half brother and Tommy’s son, improves to 4-0 with 4 KO’s.

 

Welterweight Patrick Boozer of Ann Arbor, MI scored his second consecutive upset, besting previously unbeaten Seneca, MO native Jesse Cook over eight rounds. Cook, a member of the “Four State Franchise” displayed great promise throughout his career but couldn’t overcome the experienced and confident Boozer. Scores were 79-73 and 78-74 twice.

 

Boozer, an upset specialist that has defeated three unbeaten foes in his last four fights, improves to 8-3 with 2 knockouts. Cook, who at 28 has time to rebound, drops to 14-1 (9 KO’s) following his first setback.

 

In other action, Jarrett Rouse upped his record to 5-0 after topping Steve Kollin over four rounds while Bryan Carroll won his pro debut by besting fellow debutant Juan Parra in a four rounder. Both bouts took place in the welterweight division.

boxing, Showtime Boxing

MEXICAN SUPERSTAR JULIO CESAR CHAVEZ JR. RETURNS TO THE RING AGAINST EXCITING BRAWLER ANDRZEJ FONFARA AT STUBHUB CENTER IN CARSON, CALIF.

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Chavez Jr. Making SHOWTIME® Debut Saturday, April 18,

Live At 10 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. PT

 

Tickets Go On Sale Today At 12 P.M. PT!

 

CARSON, Calif. (March 9, 2015) – The return of Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (48-1-1, 32 KOs) comes to StubHub Center in Carson, Calif., onSaturday April 18 as the Mexican superstar makes his SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® debut against exciting brawler Andrzej Fonfara (26-3, 15 KOs) in a 12-round light heavyweight bout, live onSHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. PT).

 

Tickets for the event, which is co-promoted by Goossen Promotions and Chavez Promotions, are priced at $200, $150, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, go on sale today at 12 p.m. PT and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.

 

“I’m excited to get back in the ring and remind everyone that I’m one of the best fighters in the world,” said Chavez Jr. “I have a tough test onApril 18, but I am going to pass with flying colors and I look forward to taking on any challengers after that.”

 

“This is another great opportunity for me and I’m very thankful to have it,” said Fonfara. “I’ve been in there with the best fighters in the world and as always I’m going to try to put on a show for the fans and walk out victorious.”

 

“Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Andrzej Fonfara are two of the hardest punching boxers in the sport” said Tom Brown of Goossen Promotions. “This fight will be an epic battle of wills and will add another chapter to the long list of outstanding fights that have taken place at the StubHub Center.”

 

“As a fight fan, I love watching Julio fight.  As a network executive, I’m thrilled for him to make his SHOWTIME debut on April 18,” saidStephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports.  “Julio is one of the most exciting and popular boxers in the sport today, and with a new team behind him, we expect big things from him in 2015.  But Andrzej Fonfara is a real test, and he’s proven he’s not intimidated by any opponent.”

 

The oldest son of the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez, the 29-year-old is a former middleweight world champion looking to earn himself another world title shot. Born in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, Chavez Jr. turned pro in 2003 and won his first 23 fights. His first blemish came against Carlos Molina, who he fought to a draw in 2005, before coming back to beat him two months later. After running his record to 41-0-1, he earned a middleweight world title shot against Sebastian Zbik, which he won by majority decision. He would go on to successfully defend his belt against Peter Manfredo Jr., Marco Antonio Rubio and Andy Lee before losing a decision in 2012 to Sergio Martinez. Most recently Chavez Jr. defeated rugged contender Bryan Vera twice, first in 2013 and again in their 2014 rematch.

 

Born in Warsaw, Poland and fighting out of Chicago, Fonfara is a late-bloomer who has put together a string of impressive recent performances. Last year, the 27-year-old battled lineal light heavyweight world champion Adonis Stevenson for 12 tough rounds and despite dropping a decision, he impressed a lot of fans with his grit and determination. Victorious over former world champions Byron Mitchell, Glen Johnson and Gabriel Campillo, Fonfara’s most recent win came in November 2014 when he dominated Doudou Ngumbu in his adopted home of Chicago, earning him this chance against Chavez Jr.

 

Chavez Jr. vs. Fonfara, is a 12-round bout that takes place at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. and will air on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT). The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also be available in Spanish via secondary audio programming (SAP).

 

For more information visit www.sports.sho.com, follow on Twitter at @SHOSports, @jcchavezjr1, @andrzej_fonfara, @StubHubCenter and @Swanson_Comm, follow the conversation using #ChavezFonfara, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog at http://theboxingblog.sho.com.

boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

NOTES & QUOTES FROM DEBUT OF “PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS” ON NBC

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“Keith Thurman won the fight, Robert Guerrero won the fans.” – Marv Albert


 “This is what makes stars, this is what makes champs, coming back.” – “Sugar” Ray Leonard on Robert Guerrero


“His speed, his reflexes, his athleticism. Adrien Broner is a problem.” – B.J. Flores on Adrien Broner


PBC on NBC Returns Saturday, April 11, Live 

at 8:30 PM ET on NBC


LAS VEGAS – Mar. 7, 2015 – Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC made its primetime debut tonight from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Blow-by-blow announcer Marv Albert and analyst “Sugar” Ray Leonard called the action, with Al Michaels as host, corner analysts Laila Ali and B.J. Flores, and reporter Kenny Rice.

 

The debut of PBC on NBC featured a pair of 12-round bouts – Keith Thurman‘s unanimous decision over Robert Guerrero, and Adrien Broner‘s unanimous decision over John Molina Jr. 


Following are notes and quotes from tonight’s debut telecast:

 

PBC ON NBC DEBUT


Al Michaels: “Tonight, boxing returns to primetime…in the debut of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC. This is a brand new boxing series that will showcase many of the top fighters in the sport on network television, making boxing far more accessible to fans, with less of an emphasis on jockeying for belts and more of a focus on competitive fights.”

 

“Sugar” Ray Leonard: “It doesn’t get any better than this – boxing is back on primetime TV. My career, amateur and professional, began on network television. These boxers know the power of the networks. Yesterday, they said they want to be champions and also famous. It all begins right here, right now.”

 

Michaels introducing blow-by-blow announcer Marv Albert: “And yes Marv is here, and it counts.”

 

Marv Albert on calling NBC’s last major primetime bout (Larry Holmes vs. Carl “The Truth” Williams, May 20, 1985): “Yes, I do recall very well that night in Reno, Nevada some 30 years ago….30 years ago, I was 12 at the time.”

 

Albert: “Hall of Fame referee Steve Smoger is with us [at ringside], should there be some issues, controversies, or bizarre occurrences… But that never happens in boxing.”

 

ON THURMAN-GUERRERO


Leonard on Thurman (pre-fight): “Thurman, he’s so analytical, he breaks down his opponents, he has knockout power in both hands, he puts his punches together well, and if he gets you in trouble, he’s coming after you.”

 

Leonard on Guerrero (pre-fight): “Guerrero, he went the distance with Floyd Mayweather, his defense is his offense. He’s aggressive, relentless, durable, and has never been knocked out.”

 

Leonard on Thurman in Round 1: “Most fighters have a problem with southpaws…but Thurman looks pretty good here.”

 

Leonard on Guerrero in Round 1: “Guerrero needs to use his jab to work his way inside.”

 

Albert on Thurman in Round 2: “It has been all Keith Thurman on the attack… he’s a power puncher, looks for the early knockout…he’s off to a terrific start.”

 

Steve Smoger on Thurman’s injury after an unintentional head-butt in Round 3: “If Thurman cannot continue after the 4th Round, they’ll go to the cards. That’s the situation and that’s pursuant to Nevada rule.”

 

Leonard on Thurman’s Round 4 right hand to Guerrero’s head: “Most guys would have gone down from that shot.”

 

Leonard on Thurman in Round 7: “He’s in such control.”

 

Leonard on Round 7: “Thurman can’t fall asleep on Guerrero, who still has power in both hands.”

 

Leonard on Guerrero in Round 8: “Guerrero needs to be more aggressive and cut the ring off.”

 

Leonard on Thurman in Round 8: “Thurman has taken full control of this fight.”

 

Leonard on Guerrero in Round 8: “When Guerrero lands a punch he should stay there and throw more punches, more combinations.”

 

Albert on Guerrero at the end of Round 9: “Saved by the bell.”

 

Albert on Round 10: “How about Guerrero coming back!”

 

Leonard on Guerrero in Round 10: “This is what makes stars, this is what makes champs, coming back.”

 

Leonard on Guerrero in Round 11: “The heart of Guerrero is just impressive.”

 

Albert on Round 12: “12th and final round and they continue to go at it.”

 

Albert: “Keith Thurman won the fight, Robert Guerrero won the fans.”

 

ON ADRIEN BRONER- JOHN MOLINA JR.


Leonard on Adrien Broner: “I had a little showmanship in me in my years, but Broner definitely is a showman. I knew when not to cross the line…Broner is a gifted fighter, but sometimes gets a little vulgar in his antics. I just don’t want that to overshadow his talent.”

 

Albert on Broner: “At times he has been off-the-wall outrageous.”

 

B.J. Flores on Broner (pre-fight): “His speed, his reflexes, his athleticism. Adrien Broner is a problem, and a mismatch for anybody he faces because of those natural gifts. Now, whenever he gets in the ring, he likes to stand and use those reflexes and that speed for offense, combination punching and defense.”

 

Leonard on Molina Jr. in Round 1: “He needs to make this an ugly fight.”

 

Leonard in Round 1: “Broner has the best eyes…he sees and anticipates everything coming and is able to counter those punches.”

 

Laila Ali on Round 1: “Molina’s corner is not happy with his inactivity.”

 

Ali on Molina Jr.’s inactivity after Round 6: “So far Molina has not been listening to his corner.”

Leonard in Round 8: “Molina waited too long to become an aggressor.”

 

Albert on Broner talking as fighters clinch in Round 8: “There are sweet nothings being whispered into the ear of John Molina.”

 

Albert on the fighters’ continual chatter in Round 10: “I get the idea that there is a talk show going on up there and the guests are Adrien Broner and John Molina.”

 

Smoger on the officiating in Broner-Molina Jr. in Round 10: “I just think we’ve had a bit of over-officiating. Once the referee goes in and starts to lecture, it breaks the flow of the fight and it takes the fighters out of their game plan. He’s trying to control the fight, but I think he’s over-officiating.”

 

Albert on exchange by fighters at end of the Round 10: “What a finish!”

 

Ali on Molina in the Round 11: “Joe Goossen has been pleading with John Molina to listen to him.”

 

Leonard on Molina in the Round 12: “When Molina watches the tape of this fight he’s going to be very disappointed in himself, because he has more.  He’s a warrior.”

 

Albert on Broner: “It will be a convincing victory for ‘The Problem,’ who was a problem for John Molina.”

PBC on NBC returns on Saturday, April 11 at 8:30 p.m. ET from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, as  undefeated superstar Danny “Swift” Garcia (29-0, 17 KOs) faces Lamont Peterson (33-2-1, 17 KOs), and middleweight world champion “Irish” Andy Lee (34-2, 24 KOs) takes on the undefeated Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (31-0, 22 KOs).

 

NBC and NBCSN will present 20 live PBC on NBC boxing events in 2015. Within the 20 live shows, NBC Sports Group will present more than 50 hours of PBC coverage, including NBCSN pre- and post-fight programming for NBC telecasts. The Premier Boxing Champions series is created for television by Haymon Boxing.  The PBC on NBC will feature many of today’s brightest stars, in their most compelling matches.

 

All PBC on NBC shows will be streamed live on NBC Sports Live Extra via “TV Everywhere,” giving consumers additional value for their subscription service, and making high quality content available to MVPD customers both in and out of the home and on multiple platforms. NBC Sports Live Extra is available for desktops at NBCSports.com/liveextra. The NBC Sports Live Extra app is available at the App Store for iPad and iPod touch, on select devices within Google Play, and on windows phones and tablets.
boxing, HBO Boxing

Terence Crawford vs. Thomas Dulorme Tickets Now on Sale

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Terence Crawford vs. Thomas Dulorme

Battle for Vacant WBO Jr. Welterweight Championship

Saturday, April 18

At College Park Center at University of Texas Arlington

Televised Live on HBO®

 

Tickets Go On Sale Today at 10:00 AM CT

 

ARLINGTON, TX (March 5, 2015) – Undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) lightweight champion and the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Fighter of the Year TERENCE “Bud” CRAWFORD is movin’ on up — to the junior welterweight division — where he will take on THOMAS “Thunder” DULORME, the No. 2-world-rated contender, for the vacant WBO junior welterweight world title.  Crawford vs. Dulorme will take place Saturday, April 18,  at College Park Center located on the campus of the University of Texas Arlington in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.  The world championship fight will be televised as part of a split site doubleheader live on HBO Boxing After Dark®, beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Promoted By Top Rank®, in association with Gary Shaw Productions, Foreman Boys Promotions and Tecate, tickets to the Crawford-Dulorme world championship event will go On Sale This Friday, March 6 at 10:00 am CT.  Priced at $200, $100, $60, $40 and $25, plus applicable fees, tickets can be purchased at College Park Center box office, online at www.utatickets.com or www.utacollegpark.com or by phone at (817) 272-9595.

 

“I am ready to do bigger and better things at 140,” said Crawford.

 

“I’m here to prove to the world that I am the best fighter in the junior welterweight division,” said Dulorme. “Crawford has an undefeated record but he’s never won a fight at 140 lbs. I’m envisioning a hard-fought victory, one that I will bring back home to my people of Puerto Rico.”

 

“Dulorme is a good, well-rounded boxer. We are excited because the 140 pound division will bring the best out of Terence,” said Brian McIntyre, Crawford’s co-trainer and co-manager.  “The 140 division is loaded with top fighters. This is great for Terence as everyone will soon see.”

 

“Terence had a breakout year in 2014 capturing the world’s attention with three career-best world championship victories en route to earning Fighter of the Year accolades,” said Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank.  “He will be looking continue that momentum on April 18 when he returns to HBO, on the hunt for another world title against Thomas Dulorme of Puerto Rico.”

 

“I’m very pleased that I was able to get this fight done with Top Rank,” said Gary Shaw. “Terence Crawford is considered one of the best Lightweights in boxing, but he is moving up to junior welterweight where he will face a very determined and talented Thomas Dulorme, who’s undefeated at 140 pounds. I want to thank HBO for showcasing what I perceive is another great fight for the fans.  I smell an upset in the making.  This will be the start of a great run of fantastic fights for HBO.”

 

“With Terence Crawford’s star having emerged in 2014, the question now is how high that star ascends or if his opponent Thomas Dulorme will invert the trajectory,” said Peter Nelson, vice president of programming, HBO Sports. “As lightweight champion last year, Crawford earned his BWAA Fighter of the Year honors with bold, stylish victories against top competitors, a streak which continues in stride up the scale against the hungry Dulorme, who is undefeated at 140-lbs. It will be a split-site doubleheader not to be missed on our late night Boxing After Dark franchise.”

 

Crawford (25-0, 17 KOs), of Omaha, NE, makes his 2015 ring debut looking to build on his star-making 2014 which featured three world championship victories as well as Fighter of the Year honors from the BWAA and major media alike.  He began his career-best year last March 1, just 13 days short of the sixth anniversary of his professional debut.  Crawford captured the WBO lightweight title, dethroning defending champion Ricky Burns on Burns’ home turf of Glasgow, Scotland. Scoring a powerful and unanimous decision, Crawford put the boxing world on notice with his virtuoso performance as he pulled out all stops in dismantling Burns, rocking the defending champion throughout the fight, while switching back and forth between orthodox and southpaw stances.  He followed that with a dramatic and critically-acclaimed knockout victory of undefeated former world champion and Cuban Olympic gold medalist Yuriorkis Gamboa on June 28 in a Fight of the Year nominee.  It was one of the most-watched fights of the year with over 1.2 million viewers catching the live, first-time airing of the fight, according to Nielsen Media Research.  He concluded 2014 on November 29 with a thorough shellacking of one-time world title challenger and No. 1 contender Ray Beltran, winning 11 of the 12 rounds.   Crawford is only the second Nebraska native to be recognized as a boxing world champion.  Perry “Kid” Graves, from Rock Bluff, captured the welterweight crown, knocking out Johnny Alberts in Brooklyn, in 1914, according to the Omaha World-Herald.

 

Dulorme (22-1, 14 KOs), of Carolina, Puerto Rico, graduated to the professional ranks in 2008 after a stellar amateur career which included a sterling 140-2 record.  He has long been a fan-favorite of Puerto Ricans for his slick all-action fighting style.  Dulorme enters this fight riding a two-year six-bout winning streak, with his career-best victories coming in back-to-back fights in 2014 and both televised on HBO.  He opened up 2014 with a 10-round unanimous decision victory over undefeated contender Karim Mayfield to capture the NABF super lightweight title and ended the year unifying his NABF title with the NABO junior welterweight title via an exciting 10-round decision over Hank Lundy.  A consensus Top-Five contender, Dulorme is world-rated No. 2 by the World Boxing Association (WBA), No. 3 by the World Boxing Council (WBC) and No. 4 by the WBO and the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

 

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com, or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook atfacebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, facebook.com/GaryShawProductions orfacebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo,twitter.com/GaryShawBoxing or twitter.com/hboboxing.  Use the Hashtag #CrawfordDulorme to join the conversation on Twitter.

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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos

Photo Credit: Naoki Fukuda

 

LAS VEGAS (Thursday, March 5) – The final press conference for the inaugural Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC show took place today at MGM Grand as fighters, announcers and executives spoke to the media ahead of their primetime network television debut on Saturday, March 7 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

 

Tickets for the live event are priced at $400, $300, $100 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes, are on sale now.  To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

 

This card is promoted by Goossen Promotions and features Keith Thurman vs. Robert Guerrero and Adrien Broner vs. John Molina, Jr. in fights that will air live on NBC (8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT).

 

The Abner Mares vs. Arturo Santos Reyes bout will be televised live on Saturday, March 7, on the NBC show (8:30 – 11 p.m. ET) or on the NBCSN telecast (11 p.m. ET).

 

See below for what the participants had to say about the huge night of fights.

 

KEITH THURMAN

 

“This is such a beautiful card and such a beautiful fight. We’ve wanted this for a while and we’ve been waiting patiently.

 

“Robert is a great fighter, a multiple world champion and I’m a current world champion. I know the fans wanted me to step up in class and this is my chance to do that. You know what I’m about, it’s ‘KOs for life’.

 

“I’m just really excited and happy. I can’t wait to step on the scale tomorrow, re-hydrate and go to work.

 

“If my fight goes two, six or eight rounds – I’m looking for the knockout. I’m waiting for him to slip up and for me to deliver that one time blow.

“I am going to open up my mouth and say that I am coming to knock him out. I want to be the first fighter to ever knock out Robert ‘The Ghost’ Guerrero. I appreciate him for taking this fight and for all that he has done. I know he’s coming to fight and get this victory, and it’s my job to not let that happen.”

“My brain can’t compute how big of an opportunity this is for me. It’s a blessing and an honor to be on this big of a stage. There are many world champions that could have opened up this show. This is a beautiful card and I am honored to be the main event.

“This is what boxing needs. This stage is what is going to propel my career. We’re trying to bring back the golden generation.”

ROBERT GUERRERO

 

“This truly is a blessing. Being on this stage is incredible. I’m coming to fight. On Saturdaynight I’m ready to go.

 

“It’s a great day because you don’t need cable TV to watch boxing anymore.

 

“My last opponent was tough and I was dealing with some injuries but you have to be able to overcome and make adjustments. I got a little wild and just started slugging it out with him.

 

“There were doubters when I went to 147, people thought I was nuts. Every time people don’t think I can do something, I prove them wrong.

 

“If you live the lifestyle of a fighter; you should be able to fight regularly.

 

“I’m ready to go. I had a great training camp and worked very hard. It’s time to take care of business Saturday night. We did a lot of different work in training camp to prepare for this fight.

 

“Keith Thurman is talking about coming out and becoming the first person to knock me out. I like that type of challenge.

 

“[Keith] Thurman is very strong and has great lateral movement. He can box, fight on the inside. There are also a lot of flaws with his game and we are going to take advantage of his flaws.

 

“This fight card is incredible. The exposure that we are going to get is unprecedented. Not just the fight story but my back story as well, with what kind of men we are outside of the ring.

 

“Being out there talking to everybody and showing off, that’s just not me. So sometimes I’m not always in the public eye, because I’m more of a private man who takes care of his family. But I’m glad this stage will get my story and my wife’s story to the general public.

 

“Mentally the whole experience of what my wife went through makes me tougher. Watching her fight for her life, it makes me realize that I step into the ring because I love this sport.”

 

ADRIEN BRONER

 

“I’ve been through a lo,t but I’m still here and my name has only gotten bigger, even through the bad times.

 

“Now we have ‘AB on NBC.’ I’m Mr. NBC, everybody is coming to see the AB Show.

 

“I’ll takeover whatever television channel I’m on, I don’t care if its Cartoon Network, I’m going to bring it.

 

“John Molina is a tough world class fighter, he wouldn’t be in this position if he wasn’t. He always beats the odds and comes out on the right side of the stick, but this is the time where he’s going to be on the bad end of the stick.

 

“We’re ready for a dog fight, it doesn’t matter how big the ring is. We’re not running from John Molina. I’m not scared of power.

 

“We’ll see Saturday night, I’m stopping John Molina and I’m putting my word on that.

 

“The preparation during this camp was great, I feel strong and ready. It’s going to be a great fight.

 

“At the end of the day if people say I haven’t looked my best because I haven’t stopped my opponents, but when you look at those fights I outclassed every opponent in front of me. As long as I keep winning, that’s what matters.

 

“John Molina is going to come to fight, but they all come to fight, he’s not going to beat me.

 

“The sky is the limit for me, I’m still young and I’ve done so much at a young age. I’m going to mature in the sport but at the end of the day I’m still me.”

 

JOHN MOLINA JR.

 

“It’s an honor to be part of this show that will bring boxing back to the forefront. We’re well prepared and excited to be on this platform.

 

“It’s a great card with a can’t miss show and PBC and NBC is doing it right. I can’t wait to be a part of it and for that bell to ring March 7.

 

“Camp went well and we’re 110 percent ready to bring it. It’s a great card with a can’t miss show and PBC and NBC are doing it right. I can’t wait to be a part of it and for that bell to ring March 7.

 

‘This is going to be dogfight on Saturday night.

 

‘He’s the same Broner, he can say whatever he wants. He’s made his own bed with his comments and now he has to fight. His mind games that’s he trying to play won’t work.

 

“Once we get in the ring, the talking stops, two hands just like me.

 

“I’ve got the power and the skills to win this fight.

 

“Enjoy the show and I promise you guys fireworks.”

 

ABNER MARES

 

“I’ve been a three-time world champion and I have Arturo Reyes in front of me. It’s with honor and please and excitement to be fighting on NBC.

 

“No disrespect to the other guys up here, but I plan to steal the show. I want to look good. I’ve stolen the show before and it’s going to happen again on Saturday night.

 

“I hope everyone tunes in Saturday night, everybody better watch out because Abner Mares is going to impress.

 

“Any of these fights could be main events, no matter the order, so I’m just happy to be a part of it. A lot of people are going to be tuning in so you have to fight to grab the attention of the viewers.

 

“It takes two to dance and it takes two to fight. When you have a fighter who is going to give you his all, it brings the best out of you. I’m fighting someone who’s never been knocked out and he’s going to bring the best Abner Mares out.

 

“I’m going to make it a spectacular fight and I’m definitely going for the knockout.”

 

ARTURO SANTOS REYES

 

“I’m happy to be on the card and I’m excited to be here around such great fighters.

 

“It’s going to be a great show and I’m looking forward to giving the fans their money’s worth.

 

“Abner Mares is a great fighter, but I don’t fear anybody. He better come to fight.

 

“We’re both Mexican warriors and Mexican Olympians, so you know there’s going to be fireworks in the ring and I just hope everyone in the arena and on TV enjoys.”

 

SUGAR RAY LEONARD, PBC on NBC Analyst and Legendary Boxer

 

“I’m just as excited as everyone else, because this is long overdue. Getting boxing back on primetime. These incredibly talented boxers know that this Saturday night is like a major audition and the fans will be the judges.

 

“I remember being in this position and It’s more than physical, it’s mental. These boxers have what it takes to be superstars. Saturday will be a great day for boxing.”

 

JON MILLER, President, Programming NBC Sports & NBCSN

 

“On behalf of NBC sports we’re exited to be here, we’re fortunate to have 22-time Emmy-award winner Sam Flood overseeing the event and an A-list group of on-air talent.

 

“I think America is ready to see boxing in primetime and Saturday you will see and hear an unbelievable event.

 

“We’re thrilled that these fighters and their great teams are part of the NBC family and we can’t wait to get going.”

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.nbcsports.com/boxing and www.goossenpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KeithFThurmanJr, @GhostBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @JohnMolinaJr135, @abnermares, @NBCSports and @MGMGrand and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/NBCSports.
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Dawejko sees major opportunities in future but first must get by Umohette this Friday at 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

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Philadelphia (March 5, 2015 ) – This Friday night at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia, streaking Heavyweight Joey Dawejko (13-3-2, 6 KO’s) of Philadelphia takes on Enobong Umohette (9-2, 8 KO’s) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin in a bout scheduled for 8-rounds.
Dawejko will be looking for his fourth consecutive first round knockout and he just completed a month long training camp in Easton, PA.
The camp consisted of all members of Mark Cipparone’s Club 1957 Management and provided a good atmosphere that consisted of as many as a dozen boxers.
“Training camp went great.  My whole team was there and I am ready to go forFriday,” said Dawejko.
In Umohette, Dawejko is fighting a guy that he does not know much about other then he has fought mostly in the Midwest and holds a knockout over former U.S. Olympian, Dante Craig.
“There isn’t much tape on him.  He is about 6-feet tall and he must be able to punch a little bit based on his record.”
Should the former world Jr. Amateur champion be victorious, he could be in line for a May 8 showdown with Amir Mansour in a bout that would be part of an ESPN Friday Night Fights card.
“It wasn’t too hard to stay focused on this fight.  I need this fight to put me in position for whatever fight is being talked about.”
Even though Dawejko’s last three bouts have ended before the end of the first round, he never goes in looking for the early stoppage.
“I never go into any fight looking to knock anyone out.  We train for 8 rounds or more and if it comes, it comes.”
Dawejko will be fighting extra hard as he and his fiancee Maria are expecting their 2nd child around April 9.
He did not want to talk too much about Mansour, but Mansour artist will be ringside calling the action on gfl.tv and Comcast and when asked if Dawejko would have anything to say to Mansour, “I think it is great that Amir will be ringside so he can witness what he can look forward to on May 8.”
Said Dawejko’s manager Mark Cipparone of Club 1957 Management,” The reality is that Joey Dawejko “The Tank” has created a well deserved buzz in boxing once again. I am sure that his last 3 fights ending in first round explosive KO’s have something to do with it! And today, I can’t seem to go anywhere without someone asking me when “The Tank” will be fighting again? It’s exciting because Joey has renewed interest to many in boxing ranging from the dedicated fan to the new comer and everyone in between. Everyone wants to see Joey fight!

As a hands on manager I spend a lot of time in the gym measuring boxers and Joey clearly has above average speed, above average power and most important he has an extremely high boxing IQ. As a result of this, Joey has earned both my attention and my full support and I am proud of his accomplishments. Stay tuned because the best is yet to come as great things are ahead for “Team Dawejko”.
Dawejko is promoted by Peltz Boxing.
Joey Dawejko 022115
Joey Dawejko 
Club 1957 Management was founded in 2013 by local businessman Mark Cipparone.  Cipparone is the owner of the widely successful and popular Rocco’s Collision.  Since the formation of Club 1957 Management he has guided the careers of some the top fighters in the country.  Currently he manages Heavyweight Joey Dawejko, Welterweight Raymond Serrano, Jr. Lightweight Tevin Farmer and Jr. Lightweight Jason Sosa and others.
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Baltimore Boxing Presents Snap, Crackle and Pop March 27!

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Baltimore, MD (March 4, 2015) – Baltimore Boxing Promotions will present another evening of action-packed fights when “Snap, Crackle and Pop” takes over Michael’s Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD Friday, March 27.

 

Tickets are on sale now by calling 410-375-9175 or going to Baltimoreboxing.com. Individual tickets start at $25 and VIP tables of 10 are available for $500. All VIP ticketholders can enjoy free hors d’oeurves from 7-8 pm and the best seats in the house. VIP ticketholders will also be able to participate in a special meet and greet with 5-time world champion Vinny Paz, who will be signing autographs, discussing his upcoming movie and wine company.

 

Doors open at 6:30 PM and the first bout begins at 8.

 

On January 23, Baltimore Boxing Promotions entertained a full house at Michael’s Eighth, creating a high demand for a quick return.

 

In the main event of the evening, popular junior middleweight Joey “Bazooka Joe” Veazey of the Baltimore Boxing Gym faces Lamont White of Washington, DC. Known for his loyal fan base, Veazey was scheduled to fight on the 23rd but was forced to withdraw due to an injury. Last year, Veazey captured the silver medal at the National Junior Golden Gloves. Having won many tournaments since he started boxing as a young child, Veazey is on the path to stardom.

 

Veazey and White battle it out for the East Coast Junior Middleweight crown.

 

Heavyweight slugger and former football standout Sam “Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed will defend his East Coast title vs Jeff Knight in the co-featured bout of the evening. In 2013, Crossed made national headlines by scoring the fastest knockout in history, demolishing Adrian Bean in four seconds.

 

Allen “The Hampden Hammer” Burris meets Tyrone “Jitter Bug” Jones and Courtney Hartlove squares off against Somer “Thunderstorm” Smith in a special attraction ladies bout.

 

Former college basketball standout Stefon McCray, Joe Nolan, Ed Park, Steve Layer, Melad Attashy and 2015 Golden Gloves Champion Tommy Coe Jr. will also appear on the card.

 

In association with this solid evening of fights, Baltimore Boxing is hosting a special 50/50 raffle for the Brooke and Nathan Fenush Scholarship Fund. The fund was created to assist Baltimore County Fire Department Lieutenant Paul Fenush, whose wife recently passed away.

 

“I’m looking forward to another great event on the 27th,” said promoter Jake Smith. “Last time, we had a packed house and everybody wanted to know when our next show was. I am also proud to be assisting Paul Fenush’s family. People take for granted that firefighters are real American heroes that have saved countless families from dangerous situations. It’s my pleasure and honor to help in whichever way I can.”