Tag Archives: California

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Spike TV

“Chasing Billions” – premieres on Spike Friday, March 25 at 11:00pm ET/PT

Leave a comment
In this Spike original special, “Chasing Billions” follows boxing superstar and super lightweight world champion Adrien Broner along with top contender and Floyd Mayweather protégé, Ashley Theophane, as they prepare for their highly anticipated showdown on Friday, April 1 from the D.C. Armory in Washington D.C. Spike’s coverage of the PBC will go on as planned next Friday night at 9:00pm ET/PT.
The special will delve into the escalating tension emanating from the rivalry between the outspoken and engaging Broner and the legendary boxing icon Mayweather.
Over the years, this complicated relationship has run the gamut from respectful to overtly contentious. While Mayweather may see this as a fight between mentee, Theophane, against Broner – the hard-hitting Broner emphatically has stated that “I’m not fighting Theophane, I’m fighting Floyd!”
The rivals and their respective entourages come face-to-face in a heated and colorful press conference that showcases the simmering tension between both camps. The storyline plays throughout the show as viewers see how Broner has emulated the legendary Mayweather in and out of the ring to become a world champion and his own successful brand.  With full access to both the Broner and Theophane camps and exclusive interviews, “Chasing Billions” will provide an inside look that is must-see TV for any boxing fan.

 

boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

 Victor Ortiz, Andre Berto, Jorge Lara & Fernando Montiel Press Conference Quotes & Photos

Leave a comment
 
PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, April 30
From StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
 
Click HERE For Photos
Photo Credit: Arnold Turner/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LOS ANGELES (March 23, 2016) – Former welterweight world champions“Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Andre “The Beast” Berto, along with undefeated featherweight contender Jorge Lara and former world champion Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel, held a press conference in Los Angeles Wednesday to discuss their Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX & FOX Deportes showdowns taking place Saturday, April 30 from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
The tripleheader of primetime action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT also features an exciting light heavyweight showdown between Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez and Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $209, $105, $53 and $27, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, and are on sale now and available for purchase online at AXS.com.
The fighters held court at the Conga Room at L.A. Live and spoke about their respective matchups. Ortiz and Berto will tangle in a highly anticipated rematch of their 2011 battle, won by Ortiz, while the rising Lara and former champion Montiel meet in a crossroads fight that could launch the winner into title contention in a stacked featherweight division.
Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:
VICTOR ORTIZ
“This is definitely the next chapter of my boxing career and I want to take full advantage of it. I’m healthy and I’m young and I’m still able to pull the trigger.
“Everyone said I was a ‘tomato can’ who had no business being in the ring with Berto the first time. I had to go to Connecticut to get my belt and my respect.
“I’ve fought a lot of wars. I’ve been in battles. I broke my jaw and my wrist, that’s three years right there. But my will to fight led me back. The more boxing I watched, the more upset it made me. I don’t think the other welterweights are on my level.
“Berto blames me for his downward spiral. He thinks he has a chance this time. Always a good dream to have.
“I’m not going the distance this time. I’m going in 100 miles per hour, full throttle.
“2011 was one heck of a year. The repeat is coming on April 30 because I want another world championship. Berto is a tremendous warrior; I’ll give him that. I’ll be ready and I know he will be too.”
ANDRE BERTO
“I’m excited about this one. April 30 is going to be a tremendous night. I promise you that.
“The fight back in 2011, he got me. He did what he had to do to win. But this time I’m going in extremely focused and ready to take everything that I felt he took from me that night.
“I went to school. I failed the test and now I have the chance to ace it.
“He said it wouldn’t go the distance last time, but I still did and I wasn’t training to my full capabilities.
“My power and speed are still there. I’m glad this fight came about because it’s going to be a great night for the fans.
“I’m not about running my mouth and saying stuff just for the media. I’m going to back it up in the ring.
“I’ve got to show Victor some respect because he beat me the first time. I’m big on being respectful. I respect Victor and the history of Mexican fighters, they put their blood, sweat and tears in there.
“This is what he asked for. So I want to make sure he knows what he’s getting himself into. This isn’t the same situation as last time. So we’ll see it in the ring. Come out on April 30 and see me handle this business.”
 
JORGE LARA
“It’s an honor to be able to fight on a card like this. I’m really excited about entering the ring on April 30.
“I know this isn’t going to be an easy fight. Montiel is a very accomplished fighter and that’s why we’re preparing ourselves very diligently for this fight. We’re looking forward to the challenge that he presents.
“I have all the respect in the world for Fernando Montiel. He was a great world champion who is very established in his career. I must be at my best to get the victory.
“If I’m able to win the fight then I would like to fight the winner of Jesus Cuellar vs. Abner Mares in that title fight. But first and foremost, I have to get this big victory.
“Don’t miss this fight. We’re going to give it our all and it’s going to be a tremendous matchup. I’m going to give it my all to be victorious.”
FERNANDO MONTIEL
“It’s an honor and pleasure to be a part of this amazing card. My fight with Lara is going to get the ring hot for the rest of the card.
“Lara is going to come prepared just like myself. He’s a great fighter. He’s undefeated and I know he’s going to bring his best.
“I know that Jorge Lara is a very good fighter, he’s aggressive. I know if I make a mistake it could be a long night for me.
“I know I have to rely on my experience to come out victorious. I expect both of us to battle. There could be some knockdowns. It’s going to be a fun fight for the fans.
“I’m very thankful for the opportunity and I hope everyone comes out because I’m planning on making this a terrific fight.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto,@LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Long-Awaited Victor Ortiz & Andre Berto Rematch Set for Primetime Saturday, April 30 As Premier Boxing Champions On FOX & FOX Deportes Comes To StubHub Center In Carson, Calif.

Leave a comment
 
Plus! Highly Anticipated Light Heavyweight Showdown Between 
Edwin Rodriguez & Thomas Williams Jr.
& Former Multiple Division Champion Fernando Montiel Takes On Unbeaten Jorge Lara In Featherweight Action
 
Televised Coverage Begins At 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
 
Tickets On Sale Now!
 
CARSON, CALIF. (March 17, 2016) – Former welterweight world champions “Vicious” Victor Ortiz (31-5-2, 24 KOs) and Andre “The Beast” Berto (30-4, 23 KOs) will meet again in a 12-round welterweight rematch in primetime on Saturday, April 30 as Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX and FOX Deportes comes to StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features two exciting undercard attractions. Light heavyweight sluggers Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (28-1, 19 KOs)and Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. (19-1, 13 KOs)meet in a 10-round brawl plus former three-division world champion Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel (54-5-2, 39 KOs) faces unbeaten Mexican brawler Jorge Lara (27-0-2, 19 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight battle.
Ortiz and Berto first faced off in their 2011 welterweight world title barnburner that garnered significant Fight of the Year buzz. The bout saw both men hit the canvas twice, including a thrilling round six in which each fighter was knocked down.  In the end, Ortiz walked away with a unanimous decision.  A victory in the rematch will propel the winner to the forefront of the world title picture in this stacked with talent division.
“I know I’m in for another war,” said Ortiz. “I’ve always been open to a rematch because Berto has a big mouth and something to prove. After our fight, he went on a losing streak, because I gave his opponents a blueprint on how to beat him. My losses have been unfortunate, but I wouldn’t want to come up against me at this stage in the game. My name is Victor and that’s no coincidence.”
“This is the fight the people have been waiting for and it’s time to give it to them,” said Berto. “I am in a good place mentally, physically and spiritually. I’ve never wanted my story to be perfect, that’s boring. Life is filled with ups and downs and I’ve embraced them all in my career.  Everything I’ve been through has turned me into a savage. It’s time to close this chapter once and for all. I want his head!”
The undercard bouts are sure to feature exciting two-way action as the experienced veterans Rodriguez and Montiel look to hold-off rising contenders in Williams Jr. and Lara.
“This is a very big fight for the light heavyweight division,” said Rodriguez. “Thomas brings it, but so do I. You can expect fireworks from the opening bell as we are both looking to put on a sensational performance. That being said, the light heavyweight championship is right around the corner, and there is nothing that is going to stop me from getting there.”
“I’m thrilled to be fighting on this card,” Williams said. “When they called me about this fight, I said, ‘I love it, let’s make it happen.’ I think that it’s going to be a really exciting and fan-friendly matchup. Edwin is a strong fighter who I know is going to be prepared to bring it on fight night, and I’ll make sure I’m ready to do the same.”
“It’s a pleasure to be on this fight card and I promise an exciting night for the fans,” said Montiel. “I came up short in my last fight, but I am determined to become a world champion in a new weight class. I always come to fight and I will be throwing punches non-stop until I’m victorious on April 30.”
“I’m blessed to be back in the ring as part of this great night of fights,” said Lara. “My dream is to be a world champion, and to do that I have to beat fighters like Montiel. I respect my opponent, but right now he is on my way and nothing is going to stop me.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $209, $105, $53, and $27, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.
PBC on FOX in primetime debuted on January 23 and featured a thrilling three-fight card that was topped by undefeated star Danny Garcia conquering former world champion Robert Guerrero to claim a welterweight world title in a back-and-forth brawl. Another exciting contest in the welterweight division is sure to thrill those watching at home and the Southern California boxing fans in attendance.
“We are proud to be bringing this long awaited rematch to the StubHub Center and the Los Angeles boxing fans,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto battled back in 2011, and their meeting on April 30 will take care of unfinished business.”
“After the overwhelming success of the return to boxing on FOX in January, after an almost 20 year absence, FOX Sports and FOX Deportes are thrilled to present the second Premier Boxing Champions fight on April 30,” said David Nathanson, FOX Sports Head of Business Operations.
“StubHub Center is excited to host this welterweight bout on Saturday, April 30,” said Katie Pandolfo, General Manager of StubHub Center. “We look forward to an exciting rematch and an electric atmosphere at the premier outdoor boxing venue in the United States.”
An exciting fighter who never shies away from action, Ortiz returned to the ring in December 2015 one year after injuring his hand during a third round stoppage of Manuel Perez. The 29-year-old stopped Gilberto Sanchez Leon in his last bout for his second victory in a row. Ortiz was a 147-pound world champion when he defeated Berto in 2011 to set up a showdown with Floyd Mayweather. The Kansas-native has spent time in recent years to film roles in movies such as “Southpaw” and “The Expendables 3” but is now fully focused on a return to the pinnacle of the welterweight division.
Berto is a former amateur standout and Olympian for his native Haiti. He challenged now-retired pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather in September. The offensive-minded Berto always makes for sensational scraps as his 2012 slugfest with Robert Guerrero was another Fight of the Year candidate. The 32-year-old thrilled in his PBC debut last March when he stopped Josesito Lopez in the sixth round of their welterweight showdown.
An accomplished amateur who won a 2006 National Golden Gloves gold medal and a 2005 U.S. National Championship gold medal, the 30-year-old Rodriguez enters this fight a winner of his last four fights. Born in the Dominican Republic but fighting out of Worcester, Massachusetts, Rodriguez’s only loss came to the undefeated Andre Ward in 2013. He owns impressive victories over previously unbeaten fighters Will Rosinsky, Jason Escalera, Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna, Craig Baker and Michael Seals. Against Seals, in his most recent bout on November 13, Edwin rose from the canvas to score a devastating third-round TKO in what was a ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate.
Williams Jr., a 28-year-old from Fort Washington, Maryland, was introduced to boxing by his father, a former pro fighter. A dynamite puncher, Williams Jr. has registered seven of his 13 knockouts in the first round. However, the southpaw has also proven his endurance with unanimous decision victories over warriors like Michael Gbenga, Yusaf Mack and Otis Griffin. Most recently he earned two victories, including a second-round TKO over world-ranked contender Umberto Savigne last November.
The veteran Montiel won his first world title in 2000 over Isidro Garcia and went on to have title winning performances over Pedro Alzacar, Ivan Hernandez, Z Gorres, Ciso Morales and Hozumi Hasegawa.  Born in Sinaloa, Mexico, Montiel rode an eight-fight win streak heading into his October world title shot against Lee Selby.  Montiel’s aggressive style frustrated Selby but it was not enough for him to grab a title in his fourth weight class.
Undefeated out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Lara made his U.S. debut on March 7, 2015 with a first round stoppage of Mario Macias in Las Vegas. The 25-year-old has ended seven of his last nine opponents early including experienced contenders Jovanny Soto, Jairo Hernandez and Oscar Ibarra. He looks to rebound from a technical draw in his last outing after the fight was stopped in six rounds due to numerous cuts Lara had received from accidental headbutts.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage andfoxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto,@LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

MARIO BARRIOS TO MAKE 2016 DEBUT MARCH 15 PBC ON FOX

Leave a comment
Photo by Team Barrios
SAN ANTONIO, TX (March 7, 2016) – Undefeated super-featherweight sensation, Mario Barrios (14-0, 8 KOs), makes his 2016 debut on March 15, at the Robinson Rancheria Resort & Casino in Nice, CA.  Barrios, a San Antonio TX, native is scheduled to fight in a 10-round bout against an opponent TBA.  Barrios’ bout will be part of the televised portion of Premier Boxing Champions Toe-to-Toe Tuesdays PBC on FS1.  Tune in at 9PM ET Eastern Time / 6PM PT Pacific Time.
After a momentous 2015 where he went (7-0, 5 KOs), Mario Barrios is looking to continue his march toward a world title.  Standing 6’1, Barrios wants to fight for a championship before he out grows the super-featherweight division.
“Right now the goal is to win a world title at 130 pounds,” said Mario Barrios. “I’m still young enough that making weight is not a problem at the moment.  I believe with a few more fights, I’ll be ready to challenge any of the champions at super-featherweight.  First and foremost I must focus on March 15th and bring home a victory.”
This fight marks the third bout in a row where Barrios will be fighting in front of a nationally televised audience.  Mario is grateful for the opportunity to be fighting on FOX Sports once again.
“I love fighting on Toe-to-Toe Tuesdays on FOX Sports,” Barrios continued. “I’m very thankful that FOX is brining me back.  I’m always looking to impress those that are watching with an electrifying performance.  If I get my opponent hurt at any time during the fight, you know I’m going for the knockout.”
Tickets priced $20 (back), $30 (mid), $50 (ringside) can be purchased at the Robinson Rancheria Resort & Casino box office or by calling 1-800-809-3636.  Doors open at 5:00 PM. First fight starts at 5:15 PM.
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV, UFC

BELLATOR MMA IS THE NEW FIGHTING HOME OF WANDERLEI ‘THE AXE MURDERER’ SILVA

Leave a comment

Bellator President Scott Coker and Wanderlei Silva (Credit: Bellator/Lucas Noonan)

 

SANTA MONICA (March 2, 2016) –Bellator MMA is pleased to announce that one of the most popular, recognizable and beloved fighters in the sport of mixed martial arts, Wanderlei “The Axe Murderer” Silva (35-12-1), has signed an exclusive multi-year, multi-fight contract with the promotion. The 39-year-old publicly fielded offers from companies all around the world, but the former Pride FC Middleweight Champion made the decision to take his explosive style to Bellator MMA.

 

“The Axe Murderer” has fought in some of the most memorable feuds and battles the sport has ever seen. His wars with Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Tito Ortiz, Mirko Cro Cop, Vitor Belfort, Dan Henderson, Kazushi Sakuraba, Chuck Liddell, and Michael Bisping are the stuff of legend – but Silva is far from ready to close the book on his illustrious career.

 

In addition to his Pride FC Middleweight World Championship, Silva’s packed trophy case of accolades includes awards for Fight of the Year (2003, 2004, 2007), KO of the Year (2008), and multiple Fight of the Night awards including one for each of his last three fights, just to name a few. He now looks to continue to provide his award-winning, entertaining fights inside the Bellator cage.

 

Silva has several options for his first fight with Bellator. Although he has spent the majority of his career at 185-pounds, one of the things that his fans love most about him has been Wanderlei’s willingness to fight the best of the best – even if it was up two weight classes at heavyweight – as proven by his heavyweight wars against guys like Mark Hunt, Gilbert Yvel, Kazuyuki Fujita and Cro Cop; Or, his battles against light heavyweights like Ortiz, and his most recent opponent, Brian Stann, who he knocked out in the second frame.

 

Silva is the latest in a long line of recent free agent signings made by Scott Coker and Bellator MMA. The former Chute Box competitor joins: Josh Thomson, Phil Davis, Benson Henderson, Sergei Kharitonov and Anastasia Yankova on a roster with champions the likes of: Marcos Galvao, Daniel Straus, Will Brooks, Andrey Koreshkov, Rafael Carvalho, Liam McGeary andVitaly Minakov,

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

LEO SANTA CRUZ RETAINS WBA FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH FIFTH-ROUND TKO WIN OVER KIKO MARTINEZ

Leave a comment
 
HUGO RUIZ REGAINS WBC SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH DEVASTATING FIRST-ROUND KO OVER JULIO CEJA
Watch The Replay Of The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® DoubleheaderTomorrow/Sunday at 9 a.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME®,
Monday, Feb. 29, at 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHO EXTREME®
 
Click HERE For Photos
Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME
 
ANAHEIM, Calif. (Feb. 27, 2016) – Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz defended his WBA Featherweight World Championship in convincing fashion on Saturday night, knocking down Kiko “Sensación” Martinez twice in the first round, then ending it on a barrage of punches as the fight was called at 2:09 in the fifth round in the main event of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader at Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.
In the co-feature on SHOWTIME, 29-year-old Hugo Ruiz (36-3, 31 KOs), Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, regained his WBC Super Bantamweight World Title with a devastating early knockdown with just 51 seconds into the 12-round fight against 23-year-old Julio Ceja (30-2, 27 KOs) of Atizapan De Zaragoza, Mexico, in a highly anticipated rematch of their August fight won by Ceja.
Fighting just 10 miles west of his hometown of La Habra and before 7,780 enthusiastic fans, the 27-year-old Santa Cruz (32-0-1, 18 KOs) continued to establish himself as the King of Southern California as he punished the game 29-year-old Martinez (35-7, 26 KOs) of Alicante, Valencia, Spain, with 570 total punches in just five rounds. There were 1,038 total punches thrown during the fight.
“The fans love it when two fighters go toe-to-toe,” Santa Cruz told SHOWTIME’s Jim Gray after the fight. “I wanted to give the fans a great fight. I knew I could hurt him with a right hand. He’s a fighter and when he’s knocked down, he’s going to come back. In the fifth round I knew I had to finish him off and I did.”
Santa Cruz continued, “We were going toe-to-toe from the beginning. He’s was throwing good punches I was throwing out good punches and the crowd was loving it. Then my dad told me to slow down and be smarter so we started boxing.”
Santa Cruz wasted no time getting the upper hand as the opening bell rung. He knocked Martinez out twice in the first round; the first just 23 seconds into the fight and the second on a devastating right hand at two minutes into the round prompting SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING play-by-play announcer Mauro Ranallo to tell expert analyst Al Bernstein: “We may be able to get to Disneyland before the end of the night.”
Martinez fell into a groove in the third and fourth rounds, but got into trouble two minutes into the fifth round as Santa Cruz had him up against the ropes connecting on numerous body shots, uppercuts and combinations before referee Raul Caiz Sr. signaled the end of the fight for Santa Cruz’s second straight world title defense in Southern California.
Martinez said that Santa Cruz, “started to move a lot and he broke my strategy and he fought a great fight. The second round I was getting looser and I was starting to feel much better.
“He was like a bull coming forward really strong,” Santa Cruz added. “He has definitely been one of the strongest fighters I’ve been in the ring with yet.
“Towards the end I said, ‘this is it, this is my opportunity to take him down. If I don’t finish him right here, it’s going to make it a really tough fight.’ So I said I was going at it with my all and thankfully it turned out the way that it did.”
Santa Cruz, making his second defense after capturing the world title from Abner Mares back in August, said someday he wants to break the records for most punches thrown in a fight. “I wanted to throw as many punches as I can so the fans could get a good show.”
Santa Cruz is now eyeing a future potential matchup with IBF 122-pound world champion Carl Frampton at 126 pounds or Gary Russell. “I’m up for anyone,” he said. “I want the rematch with (Abner) Mares. Since Frampton won, if he’s ready to go up in weight, I’m ready for him. I challenge him to a fight whenever he’s ready.”
In a rematch of the WBC Super Bantamweight World Title he lost last August, the new 122-pound champion Ruiz improved his record to 5-0 in rematches (with five knockouts) as he delivered a stunning first-round knockout against Ceja, who injured his right ankle on a powerful clean right just seconds into the fight sending him to the canvas.
Ceja got up slowly but was battered with a fury of punches and knocked out again with just 51 seconds into the fight ending the affair.
“I was very prepared to knock him out, but I was prepared to go 12 rounds tonight also if I had to,” said Ruiz, who was teary and emotional following the victory. “I was happy to knock him out in the first round. I’m looking for the best fighters and the best money out there.”
Said SHOWTIME analyst Paulie Malignaggi: “I’ve never seen a first-round KO that soon in a fight of this much importance.” Added SHOWTIME’s Bernstein: “The right hand was the weapon of choice for Ruiz, and he got the job done. What a moment of redemption for Ruiz!”
Ceja, who beat Ruiz on a fifth-round knockout last August to win the world title, was hurt from the first series of Ruiz punches and never recovered in the intense first round.
Ceja was taken to nearby UC Irvine Hospital and diagnosed with a fractured right ankle.
“I saw that he got hurt with the first punch and I saw his leg wobbling and so I said, ‘Let’s finish’,” Ruiz said. “And I did in that round.”
Earlier Saturday from Manchester, England, on SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL, IBF 122-pound world champion Carl Frampton unified the super bantamweight division with a split decision victory over WBA titlist Scott Quigg.
 
The long-awaited matchup of unbeaten champions got off to a slow and tactical start, but Belfast native Frampton (22-0, 14 KOs) established himself as the aggressor and worked his jab to pocket the early rounds. Quigg didn’t come alive until after the seventh, when trainer Joe Gallagher warned his charge that he was likely down big on the judges’ scorecards.
Quigg (31-1-2) pounded the body and was the aggressor in rounds eight through 11, but it was too little, too late for the Lancashire, England native. Frampton won the 12th and walked away the unified champion by scores of 115-113 for Quigg, but 116-112 twice for Frampton.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader will re-air this week as follows:
            DAY                                                                            CHANNEL
Tomorrow, Sunday, Feb. 28, 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT  SHOW EXTREME
Tomorrow, Sunday, Feb. 28, 9 am ET/PT                 SHOWTIME
Monday, Feb. 29, 10 p.m. ET/PT                               SHOWTIME EXTREME
Saturday’s two-fight telecast will be available at SHOWTIME ON DEMAND beginning tomorrow, Sunday, Feb. 28.
 
Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME telecast, with Mauro Ranallo calling the action, Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-time world champion Paulie Malignaggicommentating and Jim Gray reporting. In the Spanish simulcast, Alejandro Luna called the blow-by-blow and former world champion Raul Marquez served as color commentator. The executive producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was David Dinkins Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.
# # #
Santa Cruz vs. Martinez, was 12-round bout for Santa Cruz’s WBA Featherweight Title taking place on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Sampson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Corona. In the co-feature, Julio Ceja and Hugo Ruiz met in a super bantamweight world title rematch for the WBC belt. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast aired live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) and was available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @MartinezKiko, @TGBPromotions, @HondaCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. KIKO MARTINEZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS FOR THEIR FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWDOWN THIS SATURDAY AT THE HONDA CENTER

Leave a comment

 

Live On SHOWTIME® At 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

 

Click HERE For Photos

Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

ANAHEIM, CALIF. (February 25, 2016) – Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruzand Kiko “Sensacion” Martinez went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their featherweight world title showdown on Saturday, Feb. 27 live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

 

Also in attendance Thursday were Julio Ceja and Hugo Ruiz, who will enter the ring in a super bantamweight world title rematch as part of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

 

The previously announced opening bout between undefeated heavyweights Gerald Washington (16-0-1, 11 KOs) and Oscar Rivas (18-0, 13 KOs) has been cancelled due to Rivas being unable to pass a mandatory eye-exam.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB promotions, are priced at $27, $54, $104 and $199 and are on sale now via ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster retail locations, by calling 800-745-3000 of by stopping by the Honda Center Box Office.

 

All of the televised fighters in the now doubleheader have promised to live up to their all-action styles and will provide great drama for fans on Saturday night at Honda Center. Santa Cruz will be making the first defense of his featherweight world title while Ceja puts his 122-pound title on the line after earning the vacant belt with a fifth round stoppage of Ruiz in an exciting back-and-forth fight in August.

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

 

LEO SANTA CRUZ

 

“Headlining a televised card has been my childhood dream. I could have never imagined I was going to get this far. And Here I am, on my second main event, defending my title on a premium network. I’m so psyched. I cannot believe it.

 

“The first time I put the gloves on, I knew that I had found my craft, and I also knew that it was not going to be an easy road. I knew that I had to work hard to become a champion. So, I trained the hardest and I fought the hardest, and with my father by my side I got here, where I’m at today. I owe him everything.

 

“I remember watching all the great Mexican Champions and day dreaming about being like them one day. It felt unreachable. I thought it was impossible to get where they were. But I worked hard, really hard from the beginning.

 

“The most important thing is that the fans leave happy and get their money’s worth. I’m glad that Kiko has come prepared because we’re ready for a great fight.

 

“People are saying that I should walk through Kiko Martinez, but I don’t listen to that. I look at Kiko the same way I look at any other opponent. When we step inside the ring, we are equals.

 

“At the end of the day, the winner will be the fighter who has prepared more and who has imposed his will on the other man.

 

 

KIKO MARTINEZ

 

“I have faced much stronger boxers than Leo and come Saturday, all of those who did bet on me for this fight, I am going to make you a lot of money.

 

“I am excited and proud to know that Sergio Martinez will be present on Saturday supporting me. His guidance and presence

 

“My trainer could not be here, but we have not taken one day off in training camp and I have been pushed to my limit to prepare me for this fight. I’m thankful to Robert Garcia for being in my corner on Saturday.

 

“I know this is a great opportunity to fight Leo Santa Cruz and I will make the most of it. I’m going to leave everything inside the ring so that the fight fans enjoy a great championship matchup.

 

“I feel that Leo Santa Cruz is a great fighter, he has beat some incredible fighters. He’s a great athlete and boxer. Sometimes people will try to make him out to be more than he actually is but they are mistaken with what they see in me. I am not to be mistaken as the underdog here.

 

 

JULIO CEJA

 

“As Hugo mentioned, we have both trained even harder than last time and we’re more prepared physically and mentally.

 

“I’m going to give everybody a great fight just like last time. I’m walking into the ring knowing my opponent very well. We’ve been to war. I know what to expect from him. I know about his punch and I know how to counter it.

 

“I’m going to be alert and ready. I’ll be a little more intelligent, because I know that he’s coming well prepared and he’s coming for the world title, but he’s not going to get it.

“There are going to be no surprises in this fight. Hugo Ruiz said that he was training harder this time. But I am too. I’ve trained very hard.

 

“The key for me to win this fight is to keep my hands up and to not give him one inch. I cannot be careless. I’ll be strategic and use my wisdom. I cannot come in with my hands down because I know I’ll pay for it. But nothing to worry about, we have rectified those issues in training camp. I’m ready. He’s not taking my belt away from me.

 

“I’m glad that he says he is better prepared this time because I am better than ever. My team has been instrumental in preparing me for this matchup.

 

“The winner will be the man who is more prepared physically and mentally. But the real winner will be the fans at Honda Center because this is an amazing card and we’re going to put on an amazing fight.”

 

 

HUGO RUIZ

 

“If you liked the first fight between us, then you are going to love this one.

 

“I’m excited to be fighting once again in Southern California. I’ve trained very hard and I have prepared myself for this world title opportunity.

 

“I’m looking forward to putting on a grand show for all my fans on Saturday night.”

 

 

JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’ Father & Trainer

 

“I hear Kiko has a great trainer on his corner. Robert Garcia is really good, but I have news for Kiko, his trainer is not going to fight for him.

“Once a fighter steps into the ring, he’s alone in there. There are no trainers and no great promoters that can fight for him.”

 

“Kiko speaks about this prestigious trainer and thinks that by mentioning him, he is going to intimidate us. He has something else coming. The trainer won’t fight for Kiko. Roberto Garcia has trained my son and knows Leo very well but that does not give Kiko the upper hand.”

 

 

TOM BROWN, Head of TGB Promotions

 

“Southern California favorite Leo Santa Cruz returns to bring his action style to the ring. He will be opposed by a tough former world champion in Kiko Martinez who is sure to make this a tremendous fight.

 

“The first fight between Ceja and Ruiz was a true back and forth war. Should this pick up right where it left off, we will have a great fight to start the telecast.

 

“I’m looking forward to a great night on Saturday night in front of the fantastic Southern California boxing fans.”

 

 

TIM RYAN, CEO & President of Honda Center

 

“I’m so thankful to everyone for helping to bring boxing back to Orange County. It’s hard to believe that Julio Cesar Chavez fought here in 1996, because it seems like yesterday.

 

“We have a great arena and a great fan base that loves boxing here in Orange County. The card on Saturday is wonderful. I know these guys will be ready and I’m looking forward to an action-packed night on the 27th.

 

CHRIS DEBLASIO, Vice President, Sports Communication Showtime Networks

 

“This is a fight fan’s fight card and we are looking forward to some explosive action. I think everyone knows that the lighter weight classes, especially at the championship level, produce exciting fights. My favorite examples include the epic series between Israel Vazquez and Rafael Marquez, which are available on SHOWTIME platforms and should wet your appetite for what we will see on Saturday night.”

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @MartinezKiko, @TGBPromotions, @HondaCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

boxing, Showtime Boxing

KIKO MARTINEZ, JULIO CEJA & GERALD WASHINGTON MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR THIS SATURDAY’S SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® TRIPLEHEADER Live On SHOWTIME® At 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT “

Leave a comment
Click HERE For Photos
Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME
 
LOS ANGELES (Feb. 24, 2016) – Former world champion Kiko “Sensacion” Martinez (35-6-0, 26 KOs) participated in a media workout Wednesday at the City of Angels Boxing Club in Los Angeles as he prepares to face undefeated WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz (31-0-1, 17 KOs) on Saturday, Feb. 27 live on SHOWTIME® (7 p.m. PT/10 p.m. ET) from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.
In the co-feature Mexican warrior Julio Ceja (30-1, 27 KOs) meets Hugo Ruiz 35-3, 31 KOs) in a long-awaited Super Bantamweight World Title rematch and undefeated heavyweight Gerald Washington (16-0-1, 11 KOs) will face unbeaten Oscar Rivas (18-0, 13 KOs). Both Ceja and Washington joined Martinez to give the media a preview of what’s to come on Saturday.
Martinez spoke about the adjustments he’s made as his trainer Gabriel Sarmiento was unable to obtain a Visa in time to travel to the United States and will not be able to serve in his corner come Saturday. Martinez is confident that renowned Southern California trainer Robert García will be able to lead him to a world title on Saturdaynight.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB promotions, are priced at $27, $54, $104 and $199 and are on sale now via ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster retail locations, by calling 800-745-3000 of by stopping by the Honda Center Box Office.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
KIKO MARTINEZ
“I’m very happy to have Robert Garcia in my corner. He has led so many fighters to world titles. I’m excited and I’m anxious to get things going. I’m ready to collaborate and I think we’ll do great things Saturday.
“The people who doubt that I will take this title only make me stronger and more dangerous.
“Training camp has been extremely tough with lots of demands due to facing a champion like Leo Santa Cruz because he’s an excellent boxer who I admire. I have completely devoted myself to training for this fight.
“On Saturday everyone will get to see the best Kiko Martinez. I am going to be bringing the pressure and giving you all a great fight with power punches to disarm Santa Cruz and take the title.
“I hope that fans will change their mindset of seeing me as the underdog and support me because I am here to show something else.
“I am very happy to be here and have the opportunity to fight in the United States again.
“I love this California weather, it reminds me of the weather of El Canario where I was training and I am feeling great.
“I am ready. Now all there is left is to wait. We’ve got the weigh-in ahead of us and I’ve already made weight. I will be working up a sweat just to remain active and distracted because I am ready to jump in the ring and start the best fight of my life.
“I have won a world title in the United States and became a world champ here and I am expecting to become the world champ here once again. That fight was how I became known here, now this fight will be the biggest fight of my career.
“I’ve been studying [Santa Cruz] for quite some time now, since I’ve been waiting to fight him previously, now it has come to this point in this time of my life. I have grown and learned so much since then that I truly feel that I have learned from my mistakes and grown to the best of my life yet.”
“Luckily [trainer Gabriel Sarmiento] has been training me up until this point. We’re on the same team and we have each other’s backs and he is still fully supportive. I have him in my heart and I know that he will be supporting me all the way.
“I am not worried about what anyone is saying. All I want is to get in the ring comeSaturday and demonstrate that Leo and I will put on a huge fight and the audience will not be bored for a single minute.”
 
JULIO CEJA
“We have had a long and very intense camp. We are prepared and know what is on the line here because we know that Hugo comes at it with everything he’s got. This is a prestigious opportunity that I have been presented with and we can forecast that it will be an all-or-nothing fight.
“This will be a toe-to-toe fight because we both know each other’s strengths and having fought before we know this rematch will be explosive.
“From the second we knew there would be a rematch, we immediately started training. We knew going in to this again that it will be a tough fight and this one will be better than the first. It will be more dangerous and more of a fight than the last because of what the rematch represents.
“I have trained very hard because I know what is on the line and I am not going to allow Ruiz to take that title from be so easily. It is going to be an all-out battle.
“Hugo has reach and height on me but all I know is that once I hear that bell, none of that matters. There’s a reason why they call me the champ and I am confident in my skill to show that.
“I am looking to show up and give the fans an entertaining show. I will be looking for a fight all throughout and keep it exciting for the fans who are coming out to see a good fight.
“I devoted my life to becoming the champion and my life dream was always to be a champ, so this is something that I will fight to the end for.
“I became a champ here in the United States and now that I am blessed with the opportunity to get a rematch here. I’m ready to take full advantage of this chance to give it 100 percent.”
 
GERALD WASHINGTON
“I grew up boxing and boxing was always my passion as a kid. I used to go to the local Boys & Girls Club as a kid and I’ve been in love with it since. It’s always been a part of me and I’m glad I can do it again and take over this division.
“There are lot’s similarities in football and boxing. You watch film, break your opponent down. We take everything from sparring and practice and take them out to the game.
“This is going to be a great fight. It’s always a good battle when you have two undefeated fighters. It’s going to be a night full of action. I look forward to the action. I love stepping up and facing top-flight competition.
“Rivas has an extensive amateur background. He’s a big, strong guy who likes the knockout. He’s going to go for it. I’m prepared for a fight like that. I know the pressure is coming. We’ve worked hard since my last fight.
“The jab is the key for everything. It opens up all the other shots and keeps the opponent off balance. I’m going to hammer him with it. It’s a major tool.
“It’s a great honor to be fighting here in Los Angeles. My whole life has taken place in this state and everyone who has supported me is coming together on Saturday to see it all in action.
“Heavyweight boxing is always exciting. We’re the hardest hitters in the game. I can’t wait to show everyone the hard work I’ve put in and give a great performance.
“I’m going to be smart and disciplined in the ring. But you also have to have a strong will and have the determination to keep moving forward. You have to step to the guy and apply the pressure.
“My height and reach is always to my advantage but it’s not that. It’s the legs, the mind, the combinations. It’s everything.
“You will see a smart and aggressive style from me on Saturday and I’m going to take that into the next level of my career.”
# # #
Santa Cruz vs. Martinez, a 12-round bout for Santa Cruz’s WBA Featherweight Title taking place on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Sampson Boxing Promotions. In the co-feature, Julio Ceja and Hugo Ruiz will meet in super bantamweight world title rematch for the WBC belt and opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast, Gerald Washington will face Oscar Rivas in a 10-round heavyweight bout. The tripleheader will air live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) and will be available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @MartinezKiko, @TGBPromotions, @HondaCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports
boxing, Showtime Boxing

LEO SANTA CRUZ MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Leave a comment
 
Undefeated Santa Cruz Defends Featherweight World Title Against
Former Champ Kiko Martinez Saturday, February 27 Live On SHOWTIME® 
From Honda Center In Anaheim, Calif. 
 

Click HERE For Photos From Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME
 
ANAHEIM, CALIF. (February 18, 2016) – Undefeated featherweight world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz held an open media workout Thursday at Who’s Next Boxing Academy in La Puente, Calif., as he prepares for his first title defense against Kiko “Sensación” Martinez Saturday, February 27 live onSHOWTIME from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.
Santa Cruz vs. Martinez headlines a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader that features Mexican warriors Julio Ceja and Hugo Ruiz meeting in an awaited super bantamweight world title rematch plus heavyweights Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington and Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas will put their unblemished records on the line in a 10-round matchup. The action begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 

 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $27, $54, $104 and $199 and are on sale now via ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster retail locations or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Honda Center Box Office.

 

Santa Cruz worked out alongside his father and trainer, Jose Santa Cruz, for the media in attendance and spoke about his upcoming bout and more. The workout also featured a surprise performance from Martin Castillo and a five-piece band that included a tuba and an accordion. Santa Cruz jumped rope and went through drills while traditional Mexican folk music called Corrido filled the Southern California gym.
Here is what Santa Cruz and his father had to say Thursday:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“I always train to make a statement. I want to go out there and show everyone that I’m really good and I deserve to be considered one of the best.
“I fight for my family. Since I was small, this is what I’ve wanted to do to help my family. I wanted to work hard and give my family a better future.
“Martinez is a strong fighter who comes forward and always puts pressure on you. He never backs down and always comes to fight. That’s what we like about this matchup — it makes for a more intense fight.
“We’re going to give the fans an entertaining show. The fans are the ones who are going to win at the end of the night. I’m going to go out there and try to knock him out by the end of the third round.
“I think he’s going to be the aggressor because he’s shorter and has to fight that way. But I’m going to go forward and be the aggressor too. If that’s not working, I’ll box him. We’re going to do what we need to do to win the fight.
“I see Carl Frampton vs. Scott Quigg as a 50-50 fight. It’s a tough fight for both of them. I think whoever catches the other guy first will get the victory. They both can hit and they both have great skills. It could go either way.
“It’s a very interesting fight between Frampton and Quigg. They’ve both been possible opponents for me and I hope that I do well that night and face the winner of that fight. I don’t care who it is, I want to fight them.
“I’m willing to fight whoever. I want the winner of Frampton-Quigg. If not then Lee Selby, Gary Russell Jr., Jesus Cuellar or anyone in the division. Hopefully next it will be one of those fighters.
“My fighting style is to always go forward and throw a lot of punches. I just want to entertain the fans. I fight for them and I try to send them home happy. I want to go in there and fight in a war.
“I’m going to fight all of the top guys. I’m still young and I know if I keep working hard and taking care of the guy in front of me, I’ll get all of those fights.
“We’re working on our distance and learning new things every day in camp. I don’t want to change too much, since I’m undefeated. I’m going to be prepared mentally and physically to get the win.
“We’re working hard all the time. We know what we have to do in the ring to win the fight. My last fight our strategy was to brawl but we adjusted it and moved more and we were able to get the victory.
On his recent foray into boxing promotion: “Being a promoter is difficult. It’s very hard. You’re always busy, so right now I’m focused on my boxing career. I’m letting my brothers and my family take care of it now. I’m not there 100 percent yet but I like to give my opinion. It’s something I’d like to do after I retire.”
JOSE SANTA CRUZ
“Leo is very well prepared as he always is. We always train 100 percent and we are ready.
“The team is ready to fight. We have one week left to rest and put some finishing touches on this camp.
“We’re going to fight Martinez with our style. We’re going to do whatever we need to do to win the fight. Leo is going to take the fight to him and try to counteract whatever style Martinez brings.
“It’s going to be a good fight. Whichever style Martinez brings, we’re going to out-maneuver him and make it a good fight. I see Leo winning a decision at least if not a knockout.”
 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @MartinezKiko, @TGBPromotions, @HondaCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports
boxing

Robert Guerrero to be inducted into California Boxing Hall of Fame 2016 class

Leave a comment
“THE GHOST”
TO BE INDUCTED INTO CALIFORNIA BOXING HALL OF FAME
Ghost vs. Aydin SJ Merc.jpg
GILROY, CA (February 17, 2016) – The “California Boxing Hall of Fame” is happy to announce that multiple division world champion, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero, will be one of its 2016 inductees.  The ceremony will take place at the Sportsmen’s Lodge Event Center in Studio City, CA on October 22, 2016.
“The Ghost” who once fought at super-bantamweight (122 lbs) successfully moved up several weight classes to compete at welterweight, winning multiple world titles along the way, becoming one of boxing’s most notable warriors.  Still active today, Guerrero has plenty of fight left in him and wants nothing more than to get the fans more great fights.  He is thrilled to be part of the 2016 class of inductees.
“To be inducted into the California Boxing Hall of Fame is a great honor,” said Robert Guerrero.  “I have to thank my family and team for getting me to where I’m at today.  I couldn’t have done it without them.  As fighters, we put our lives on the line every time we step into the ring, and we do it for the love of the sport.  The fans are the ones who benefit from our sacrifices and that’s what it’s all about.  I love boxing and I want to let the fans know that I’m always going to give it my all every time I fight.  To be part of the 2016 inductees is unbelievable.”
WHAT:      2016 California Boxing Hall of Fame induction ceremonies
WHEN:      October 22, 2016
                  Starts at 11:00 am
WHERE:    Sportsmen’s Lodge Event Center “Empire Room”
                   12833 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, CA 91604
                   Phone: (818) 755-5000
                   Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel Phone: (818) 769-4700
Ticket Information
Luncheon Ticket – $75.00 (tax, tip incl.)
Send check payable to – California Boxing Hall of Fame
c/o Don Fraser
10516 Addison St, North Hollywood, CA 91601
For Advertising Information – Call (818) 761-4887 or Email: neicyrox@sbcglobal.net