Tag Archives: CBS

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

UNDEFEATED CUBAN SENSATION RANCES BARTHELEMY BATTLES FORMER WORLD CHAMPION ANTONIO DEMARCO ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON CBS

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SUNDAY, JUNE 21 LIVE ON CBS SPORTS AT 4 P.M. ET/1 P.M. PT

FROM THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

 

Plus Exciting Welterweight Showdown Between

Sammy Vasquez & Wale Omotoso

 

LAS VEGAS (May 28, 2015) – An action-packed showdown between former world champions Rances Barthelemy (22-0, 13 KOs) and Antonio DeMarco (31-4-1, 23 KOs) headlines the next installment Premier Boxing Champions on CBS taking placeSunday, June 21 live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas with televised action beginning at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT.

 

Also featured in televised bouts is an explosive welterweight matchup that pits the undefeated Sammy Vasquez (18-0, 13 KOs) against Nigerian knockout artist Wale Omotoso (25-1, 21 KOs).

 

“I’m excited for this big opportunity and I can’t wait to show the world what I’m capable of,” said Barthelemy. “A big fight like this is what I want. I know it will be very difficult, but I’m going to train hard to put on a show for the fans.”

 

“This is a huge fight for me. I’m going to leave everything I have in that ring,” said DeMarco. “The chance to fight on network television is once in a lifetime and I’m going to make the most of it.”

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions are priced at $100, $75, $50, and $25 not including applicable service charges and taxes go on sale Thursday, May 28. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.mgmgrand.com orwww.ticketmaster.com.

 

A Cuban amateur national champion, the 28-year-old Barthelemy has yet to taste defeat since turning pro in 2009. Born in Cuba but now fighting out of Las Vegas, he won a super featherweight world title in July of last year by defeating Argenis Mendez in impressive fashion. Most recently he delivered a second round TKO over Angino Perez in March and looks to impress once again when he hits the ring in June.

 

A former world champion in the lightweight division, the 29-year-old DeMarco steps back into the ring to face the undefeated Barthelemy. Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, he owns victories over John Molina Jr., Jorge Linares and Lanardo Tyner. He fights for the second time as a pro in the city of Las Vegas on June 21.

 

The 29-year-old Vasquez has fought professionally since 2012 and served two tours of duty in Iraq as a member of the National Guard. He made it to the semifinals of the 2012 U.S. Olympic trials and won gold at the 2010 and 2011 Armed Forces Boxing Championships. The fighter out of Monessen, Penn., has not lost as a professional and is coming off of a unanimous decision over Emmanuel Lartey in February of this year.

 

Born in Nigeria, but fighting out of Oxnard, Calif., Omotoso is looking to make it three wins in a row when he battles Vasquez. His most recent victories were both knockouts as he defeated Abraham Alvarez and Eduardo Flores. The 30-year-old made his U.S. debut in 2011 and has racked up a 7-1 record stateside.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.TGBPromotions.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @SHOSports, @RealKidBlast, @De.Marco07, @SammyV2112, @MayweatherPromo , @TGBPromotions and @MGMGrand and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing orhttp://shosportspoundforpound.tumblr.com/.
boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

OMAR FIGUEROA DEFEATS RICKY BURNS AT STATE FARM ARENA IN HIDALGO, TEXAS ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON CBS

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Jamie McDonnell Earns Close Decision Over

Tomoki Kameda

 

Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/PBC on CBS

 

HIDALGO, TEXAS (May 9, 2015) – Omar “Panterita” Figueroa (25-0-1, 18 KOs) remained undefeated as he put on an exciting show in front of a raucous hometown crowd and earned a unanimous decision over Ricky Burns (37-5-1, 11 KOs) on Premier Boxing Champions on CBS live from State Farm Arena in Hidalgo, Texas.

 

Figueroa was the sharper fighter who landed harder punches and was able to dictate the pace of the fight. Burns was deducted a point in both the eighth and 11th rounds by the referee for excessive holding. “Panterita” won by scores of 116-110 twice and 117-109.

 

In the first televised fight of the afternoon, British star Jamie McDonnell (25-2-1, 12 KOs) earned a narrow but unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Tomoki “El Mexicanito” Kameda (31-1, 19 KOs). McDonnell was knocked down for the first time in his career by a sharp right hand from Kameda in round three but quickly recovered to win by a score of 114-113 on all three judges’ cards.

 

Here are what the fighters had to say after their bouts:

 

OMAR FIGUEROA

 

“Fighting a fight like that, it takes a lot to go even four rounds, much less 12. With a fighter like that, leaning on you and using his weight on you it’s tough. I’m just glad I was in shape and didn’t let my fans down.

 

“I’m a very offensive fighter, so the holding kind of slowed me down. I tried to do what I could and, thankfully, the judges saw that.

 

“My hands are a little sore, but I really did hold back on my punches, especially because he has one of those European guards where he holds his hands up high and his elbows are exposed. I had to be careful going to the body because that’s how I hurt my hands most times, from hitting the elbows. I felt ridiculously strong at the new weight, but I didn’t think my hands would hold up, so I was holding back and trying to win the fight on points and if I could hurt him I would try to stop him.

 

“He was punching me behind the head, so I felt like I had to do the same. If you want to play like that, I can play that game.

 

“At the end of the fight, he came with a good body shot that hurt me a bit. That’s why I slowed down at the end. I have to give it to Ricky. He’s a tough fighter.

 

“It’s time to rest up. I’ve been training since the beginning of the year and I deserve a little rest.”

 

RICKY BURNS

 

“We knew it was going to be a tough fight, but I didn’t agree with the deductions for holding. I thought he was holding as much as me and that’s why I had to tie him up.

 

“We moved up in weight for this one but still had some trouble making weight, but I didn’t want to jeopardize my chance to fight in America.

 

“I think it was his size that gave me problems more than anything. I don’t know what weight he was in that ring, but it was a lot bigger than me.

 

“The plan was to try to stick to boxing for the first half of the fight, but once the size really took over I had to stand and exchange more than I would have liked. I couldn’t get him off of me. I’ve got no excuses, as I said the best man will win.

 

“I always leave everything in the ring and that’s all I can do. I hope everyone who watched enjoyed the fight.

 

“We’ve enjoyed the experience of being in the U.S., obviously the decision didn’t go our way which puts a damper on it, but overall everyone here in Texas has been great. I want to say a big thank you to everybody. I hope to back again.”

 

JAMIE MCDONNELL

 

“I felt in control all the way through. It was a great performance. I know I should have just boxed but I wanted to fight.

 

“I didn’t think I was going to get the decision being abroad, but it’s more than spectacular to come out of here victorious. He’s a great, undefeated champion.

 

“His speed surprised me on the knockdown. I knew he was going to be fast, but I didn’t expect it like that. I didn’t see the shot and next thing I knew I was on the floor.

 

“Hit and move, hit and move, that was the strategy. I remember being in there and thinking, ‘Man, this isn’t easy.’ I knew the crowd was going to go his way but it was a great experience.

 

“It’s been a fantastic time being here in America. I’d like to see some familiar faces but it’s a new experience. I was up against it but I knew I could pull it off. I knew deep inside that I could do it.

 

“I think I’m going to move up in weight. I want to catch the big fights before they’re gone.”

 

TOMOKI KAMEDA

 

“I think I won the fight. I did enough to win. He did a lot to win the last rounds, but I did more over the fight. I don’t agree with the judges decision, but I respect it.

 

“I knew he would get up after the knockdown because he’s a world champion. He’s a great fighter and I take my hat off to him, but I won the fight.

 

“I want a rematch.”

 

#          #          #

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @SHOSports, @OmarFigueroaJr, @RicksterKO, @TomokiKameda, @JamieMcDonnell1, @WarriorsBoxPromo and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo andwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog at http://theboxingblog.sho.com.

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON CBS FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/PBC on CBS

 

Live On CBS Sports Starting at 4 P.M. ET/1 P.M. PT

 

HIDALGO, TEXAS (May 7, 2015) – Fight week for Premier Boxing Champions on CBS continued Thursday as televised fighters Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Ricky Burns, Tomoki “El Mexicanito” Kameda, Jamie McDonnelland Austin “No Doubt” Trout spoke to the media at the final press conference before their respective bouts taking placeSaturday, May 9 at State Farm Arena.

 

Here are what the participants had to say Thursday:

 

OMAR FIGUEROA

 

“This is the biggest fight of my career thus far. I have my brother on the undercard and it’s here at home. This is it. I think it’s great for people from the Valley to get a huge card like this here. They haven’t seen this since Vasquez vs. Marquez, so I hope to bring that level of boxing back to the Valley.

 

“I definitely feel more pressure but the good kind of pressure. I’ve thrived on pressure my whole life. I was a pitcher for a long time. I was a closer. So I’ve been in situations where it’s bases loaded and we’re down so many runs and I’ve got to keep the game close. This is what I live for.

 

“I haven’t seen any film of Ricky Burns. Haven’t watched him at all. But from what I’ve heard he’s a tough fighter in great shape, so if we go 12 rounds it’ll be a good 12 rounds. I’m going to go out there and give it my all and win in the most impressive way possible.

 

“It wasn’t difficult to give up my title. I don’t fight for titles. I don’t care for titles. I think they’re just aesthetic things. I’d rather please the fans with a good fight. I don’t care if I win a title at the end of the day, but if the fans are happy, I am happy.

 

“I’m going to be a lot stronger at this new weight. I don’t know what to expect. I’m excited to get in the ring and find out.”

 

RICKY BURNS

 

“When you’re in hard fights, that’s what brings out the best of you. I’m looking forward to getting in the ring and putting on a good performance and win some fans over here.

 

“It’s a very tough fight and we knew that before we took it. Figueroa likes to come forward and be aggressive, but that can be his downside because he takes a lot of shots. We’re prepared for whatever happens on fight night and the best man will win.

 

“Some people think I’ve come over here just to be an opponent but that’s not the case. I had a bad year but it’s all behind me. I’m going to get back to my winning ways.

 

“This is everything I’ve ever wanted to accomplish in boxing. It’s going to be a hard fight but by the time the fight comes it will be just about four weeks that I’ve been in Texas.

 

“I treat boxing as my job, when it comes to training and fighting I always give it 100 percent and leave it all in the ring and hopefully the fans will see that. Omar is never in a dull fight and I’m not one to back out.

 

“We’ve treated this fight exactly the same as any other. Even though we’re in his hometown, as soon as that first bell goes that’s when it’s going to count. It’s just me and him in that ring.”

 

TOMOKI KAMEDA

 

“It is a dream come true to fight on a network like CBS. Millions are now going to get to know me, get to know my style. Boxing is changing and to be part of that is a great honor to me.

“It was not easy to relinquish my world title — I was the first Japanese to hold that title. It’s never easy to give up something that you’ve worked so hard for. But I respect the sanctioning body’s decision, they said I had to relinquish it and so I did. Now, I’m going for another title, and after that maybe unification.

“McDonnell is a good boxer. He knows how to box and knows his way inside the ring. Most British fighters do that, move around a lot. Its not an easy style to face, but my team and I have a great strategy and we are going to win, we are going to win by knockout.

“I love Mexico. I moved there when I was 15 with my family. I did all of my amateur and all my professional career there. I’m grateful to Mexico and all Mexicans for giving me so much.

“My team and the guys at the gym started calling me ‘El Mexicanito’ because I embrace Mexican culture as my own. I love the food, the people and of course the Spanish language. I struggle with it at first, but now I think I got it mastered.”

 

JAMIE MCDONNELL

 

“I think Kameda is a bit scared and a bit intimidated by my size. I genuinely believe I am going to knock him out. I’m too big and too strong.

 

“I’ve been a world champion for a couple of years now. I’m ultra-confident for this fight. It’s the best I’ve ever felt. I’m really looking forward to it.

 

“Kameda is a good fighter and I expect the very best from him. He better expect the very best from me. This is life changing, whoever wins this fight gets propelled up a few levels.

 

“I want the best life possible for my wife and baby daughter. To do that I have to beat him.

 

“My losses were six years ago and I didn’t even really believe in myself at that time. I’ve gone through every experience that you can in that time and I bring everything to the table.

 

“Fans can expect to see a lot of heart. I can take a punch, I can give a punch. It’s an interesting fight and it’s a chance for me to showcase what I’m all about on this great stage here in America.”

 

AUSTIN TROUT

 

“As far as my opponent dropping out at the last minute, disappointment is kind of an understatement. But I’m trying to keep it classy, so I’ll stick with disappointed. I’m not surprised though.

 

“The day I heard that he pulled out it definitely changed my mindset, but I had to find that focus and realize that we still have work to do.

 

“It’s an honor to be part of this whole PBC on CBS card. I feel like this is the resurgence of boxing – brining it back to the golden days. For me to be a part of that was one of my goals when I turned pro. I wanted to be a part of the comeback of boxing.

 

“I’m trying to get a belt. I want my world title back.  After I get a world title I’m going to try and avenge those losses. After I avenge those losses I want another title so I can become an undisputed champion. Once that’s done we can consider moving up to another weight class maybe.”

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @SHOSports, @OmarFigueroaJr, @RicksterKO, @TomokiKameda, @JamieMcDonnell1, @WarriorsBoxPromo and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo andwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog at http://theboxingblog.sho.com.
boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

STACKED UNDERCARD COMES TO HIDALGO, TEXAS ON SATURDAY, MAY 9 AT STATE FARM ARENA

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Austin Trout To Face Luis Galarza

 

Plus Top Local Talent & Highly-Touted Prospects Complete Card

 

Coverage of Premier Boxing Champions on CBS Starts

at 4 P.M. ET/1 P.M. PT

 

HIDALGO, TEXAS (May 7, 2015) – A full day of exciting undercard fights come to State Farm Arena in Hidalgo, Texason Saturday afternoon, May 9 as local fan favorites and top prospects will look to make their marks on the boxing world. This includes former world champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout (28-2, 15 KOs), who battles Luis Galarza (21-3, 15 KOs) in super welterweight action .

 

 

A former world champion who defeated Miguel Cotto in 2012, the 29-year-old Trout looks to make it three victories in a row on May 9. He also owns victories over Delvin Rodriguez, Daniel Dawson and Rigoberto Alvarez, in addition to his 2004 U.S. Championships gold medal. Fighting out of Las Cruces, New Mexico, he takes on the 33-year-old Galarza out of El Taino, Puerto Rico.

 

 

These fights will support the Premier Boxing Champions on CBS show featuring undefeated star Omar “Panterita” Figueroa battling former world champion Ricky Burns and the bantamweight showdown between Tomoki Kameda (31-0, 19 KOs) and Jamie McDonnell (25-2-1, 12 KOs).

 

 

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are priced at $150, $100, $75, $50, and $25, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or at the State Farm Arena Box Office. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

 

 

Undercard action will also feature a pair of knockout artists as Rogelio “Porky” Medina (35-6, 29 KOs) takes on Samuel Miller (28-10, 25 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight bout. Undefeated prospect Miguel Flores (14-0, 7 KOs) battles German Meraz (43-34-1, 24 KOs) in an eight round featherweight attraction and Darwin Price (6-0, 3 KOs) faces Juan Ovalle (4-6-2, 3 KOs) in six rounds of super lightweight action.

 

 

Action continues with Steve Lovett (11-0, 9 KOs) battling Eric Watkins (12-8-2, 5 KOs) in an eight round light heavyweight showdown. Plus, Jose Prado (4-1, 2 KOs) will take on Victor Rosas (6-1, 2 KOs) in a four round welterweight tussle while Carlos Velasquez (18-1, 12 KOs) faces Juan Ruiz (24-16, 7 KOs) in an eight round featherweight bout.

 

 

Some of Texas’ hottest prospects round out the card as Omar’s brother, Brandon Figueroa (pro debut) takes on Hector Gutierrez (2-7) in a four round featherweight bout while Mario Barrios (8-0, 5 KOs) looks to remain undefeated against Jose Del Valle (4-10-1, 3 KOs) in six rounds of action in the super featherweight division.

 

 

More Texas flavor comes in the form of a pair of undefeated prospects as Ryan Karl (6-0, 5 KOs) faces Alfred Hall (4-8-2, 2 KOs) in four rounds of welterweight action and Enrique Alvarez (5-0, 3 KOs) battles Alberto Espinoza (3-6) in a four round super welterweight swing bout.

 

 

After a long career having fought mostly in Mexico, the 26-year-old Medina burst onto the scene with a thrilling knockout over previously unbeaten J’Leon Love in Aug. 2014. The fighter out of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico added two more victories since then and looks for a third when he takes on the 35-year-old Miller out of Arboletes, Colombia.

 

 

An undefeated fighter making his 2015 debut, the 22-year-old Flores out of Morella, Mexico will take on an experienced fighter in the 28-year-old Meraz out of Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico. Another fighter looking to keep his perfect record intact, the 25-year-old Price out of St. Louis takes on the 27-year-old Ovalle from Mercedes, Texas.

 

 

Representing New South Wales, Austraila, Lovett turned pro in 2010 and has yet to drop a fight in his first 11 bouts. The 30-year-old takes on the 28-year-old Watkins out of Morgantown, West Virginia.

 

 

After picking up his third straight victory in March, the 26-year-old Prado returns to the ring looking for a fourth win in a row. Fighting out of Reynoso, Mexico, he faces the 27-year-old Rosas out of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.

 

A 2004 Puerto Rican Olympian, the 30-year-old Velasquez has been perfect since his lone loss to Rico Ramos in 2013. The fighter out of Catano, Puerto Rico hopes for his fourth straight victory when he battles the 36-year-old Ruiz out of Santa Clarita, California.

 

 

Fighting in his home state and representing San Antonio, Barrios looks for his second victory of 2015 on May 9. The 19-year-old hopes to build on his momentum when he squares off against the 25-year-old Del Valle out of Bayamon, Puerto Rico.

 

 

The brother of headliner Omar, Brandon Figueroa will make his pro debut at 18-years-old just miles away from his hometown of Weslaco, Texas. His opponent is the 27-year-old Gutierrez out of Mission, Texas.

 

 

A pair of swing bouts feature 23-year-old Houston native Karl battling the 32-year-old Hall out of Jackson, Michigan and the 20-year-old Alvarez from McAllen, Texas who faces 29-year-old Espinoza from San Antonio.

 

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @SHOSports, @OmarFigueroaJr, @RicksterKO, @TomokiKameda, @JamieMcDonnell1, @WarriorsBoxPromo and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo and www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog at http://theboxingblog.sho.com.
boxing, CBS Boxing, HBO Boxing, Showtime Boxing

CBS AND SHOWTIME ANNOUNCE FULL, MULTI-PLATFORM PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE SURROUNDING  FLOYD MAYWEATHER vs. MANNY PACQUIAO FIGHT

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 SHOWTIME Sports Offering More Than A Dozen Hours of First-Run Shoulder Programming Including Documentary Series INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO

 

NEW YORK (April 24, 2015) – Showtime Networks Inc. and parent company CBS Corporation have scheduled a broad range of programming and promotion across the Company’s diverse portfolio of media platforms in anticipation of the showdown between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao on Saturday, May 2.

 

SHOWTIME Sports® is anchoring the charge with 13½ hours of first-run shoulder programming, including its acclaimed documentary series INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO, classic fights and a comprehensive offering of digital assets.

 

In addition, the CBS Television Network will run promotional spots in primetime and late-night programming throughout fight week.  This will be supplemented with marketing support and editorial coverage from CBS Sports Digital, significant coverage across CBS Sports Radio and a dozen CBS Radio stations throughout the country, and a robust schedule of shoulder programming and marketing support on CBS Sports Network.

 

“The Company is uniquely positioned to support an event of this magnitude with media assets across virtually every medium,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports.  “We’re grateful for the company-wide support and look forward to an all-encompassing push leading to May 2 leading into this milestone sports event.”

 

SHOULDER PROGRAMMING AND PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT WILL INCLUDE:

INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO delivers a unique perspective of the pound-for-pound champion Mayweather in the weeks leading up to the marquee event. The four-part documentary series from SHOWTIME Sports includes the Sports Emmy Award-winning “Epilogue” which shines the spotlight on Fight Week and takes viewers inside the ropes on Fight Night.  A full schedule of the four-part series is detailed below.

 

CBS Television Network will run Mayweather vs. Pacquiao promos during primetime and late-night throughout Fight Week.

 

CBS owned and operated television stations throughout the country have been actively engaged in coverage of the event since theMarch 11 kick-off press conference in Los Angeles.  These affiliate stations, located in the nation’s top markets, will have access to all the news and footage of fight week through the distribution network of CBS Newspath.

 

CBS Sports Network will provide live Fight Week coverage from Las Vegas, including the official Weigh-In on Friday, May 1 (6 p.m. ET), as well as immediate reaction and analysis following the fight and the post-fight press conference.   During the week leading up to the bout, the Network also will air encore presentations of classic Mayweather fights and INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO episodes. 

 

CBS Sports Digital has launched a landing page at CBSSports.com, a one-stop shop for everything Mayweather vs. Pacquiao.  The ‘Tier 1’ support from CBS Sports Digital includes static homepage promotions, additional marketing and significant editorial coverage on all digital platforms, including breaking news, commentary and placement of live event streams.

 

CBS Radio is backing May 2 with stations from 10 of the country’s top markets broadcasting live from MGM Grand, including WFAN in New York, KROQ-FM in Los Angeles, KRLD-FM in Dallas and WIP-FM in Philadelphia.  Additionally, CBS Sports Radio’s nationally syndicated “The Doug Gottlieb Show” and (Scott) “Ferrall On The Bench” will be in Las Vegas for Fight Week.  “The Doug Gottlieb Show” is simulcast on CBS Sports Network on Friday, May 1.

 

CBS Radio coverage also includes a special broadcast hosted by WFAN’s No. 1 morning show personalities Boomer and Carton on Saturday prior to the fight from 6-8 p.m. ET.  The program is available on WFAN, CBS Sports Radio, and select CBS Radio stations nationwide. The special also will be simulcast for television on CBS Sports Network.

 

CBS Local Digital Media has created a comprehensive array of online audio, video and editorial features to promote the fight which can be experienced across a variety of digital and mobile platforms.

 

#MayPac:Daily is a daily online show hosted by SHOWTIME Sports personality Mauro Ranallo.  The series will deliver the buzz of Fight Week in Las Vegas with special guests from sports and entertainment, insider analysis and more.  Taped live from the casino floor at MGM Grand, #MayPac:Daily will be posted nightlyTuesday–Friday on http://www.sho.com/sho/sports/home and Youtube.com/shosports.

 

Additionally, the SHOWTIME Sports digital team is working closely with SnapChat to deliver exclusive content, launching a new boxing blog on TUMBLR called Pound for Pound, and working with Twitter on a unique feature capturing the years of social conversation leading to #MayPac.

 

Classic Floyd Mayweather fights are being offered across the premium network’s portals, including nightly on SHOWTIME EXTREME, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND and SHOWTIME ANYTIME.  Those platforms will also offer the media workouts of Mayweather and Pacquiao and the live stream of the final press conference.  Fans can tune-in to the final stare-down between the fighters on Friday, May 1 when SHOWTIME airs WEIGH-IN LIVE: MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO.

 

SHOWTIME Sports also delivers a host of short-form content available across multiple platforms, including original music videos, Mayweather greatest hits, a Spanish web analysis and more.

 

Below is a sampling of select SHOWTIME programs and air times:

  • INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO:
    • Episode 2 premieres Saturday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME.
    • Episode 3 premieres Wednesday, April 29 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME
    • Epilogue premieres Saturday, May 9
  • WEIGH-IN LIVE: MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO: Friday, May 1 at 6 ET/3 PT, live on SHOWTIME
  • COUNTDOWN LIVE: MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO:Saturday, May 2 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, live on SHOWTIME

 

 

# # #

 

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD™, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, FLIX ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel™. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

ADONIS STEVENSON WINS THRILLING BATTLE OVER SAKIO BIKA IN DEBUT OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON CBS IN FRONT OF A RAUCOUS CROWD AT THE PEPSI COLISEUM IN QUBEC CITY

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 (PHOTOS BY: Amanda Kwok / PBC on CBS)

ARTUR BETERBIEV SECURES KNOCKOUT OVER GABRIEL CAMPILLO

 

JULIAN WILLIAMS WINS AGAINST A TOUGH JOEY HERNANDEZ

QUEBEC CITY (April 4, 2015) – The inaugural Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) onCBS card brought fight fans a very exciting afternoon of boxing matchups from Quebec City’s Pepsi Coliseum. The main event featured Adonis “Superman” Stevenson (26-1, 21 KOs) in a thrilling 12-round unanimous decision (115-111, 116-110 and 115-110) win over Sakio “The Scorpion” Bika (32-7-3, 21 KOs).

 

The opening televised bout saw Artur Beterbiev (8-0, 8 KOs) in an impressive fourth round knockout win over Gabriel “The Handsome Man” Campillo (25-7-1, 11 KOs).

 

The telecast also featured highlights from Julian “J Rock” Williams (19-0-1, 11 KOs) win over Joey “Twinkle Fingers” Hernandez (24-3-1, 14 KOs).

 

Below are some notable comments from the televised fighters regarding their performancetonight:

 

ADONIS STEVENSON

 

“I worked hard to be able to go for 12 rounds. I dropped him twice. He’s never been knocked out and I knew he’d come prepared to fight.

 

“I said I would be happy with a knockout or going the distance to get the win. So I’m very happy with how I fought today and with the result.

 

“Bika used his head a bit and tried to brawl, but I was able to control the fight. I knew he didn’t just come to Canada for fun, but to win.

 

“Being involved with Premier Boxing Champions and fighting on CBS has been a great experience. This is fantastic for boxing and we’re hoping more and more kids will start getting involved in the sport.

 

“As far as what’s next, I’ll wait and see what Al (Haymon) has for me. I’ll be ready to go again by June or July.”

 

SAKIO BIKA

 

“Adonis deserved to win this fight. I can’t take anything away from him. He fought very well.

 

“I got caught with a right and slipped the first time I went down. When he caught me with the left and I went down later on it didn’t really affect me that much actually. He’s the champ though and he fought a great fight today.

 

“Fighting on CBS has been an amazing highlight for my career. I didn’t get the win, but I put on a great fight for the public to see.

 

“For now, I’ll head back home and enjoy my family. Then I’ll see about another fight.”

 

ARTUR BETERBIEV

 

“In this fight I was able to really show what I’m capable of and my experience paid off.

 

“When I watched footage of Campillo I noticed that he did a lot of running. I wasn’t trying to be the aggressor. I just stuck to my game plan.

 

“I’m very happy to be on the big stage on CBS at such an early point in my professional career. This all came together very quickly and I hope to be back soon.

 

“We’re planning to fight again in May and I’ll leave whoever my opponent will be in God’s hands.”

 

GABRIEL CAMPILLO

 

“I really wanted to push Beterbiev into the late rounds of this fight to see how he’d handle that, but I wasn’t able to get it done.

 

“The most important punch was the first time he caught me in round one. After that shot I wasn’t able to regain myself.

 

“I was thrilled to get this opportunity to fight on CBS. This PBC production was very nice to be a part of and I think the series will do a lot to help grow the sport.

 

“My plan for now is to rest. Then we’ll revisit the situation and see about fighting again.”

 

JULIAN WILLIAMS

 

“There was no underestimating Hernandez for this fight. We studied a lot of film on him and had a pretty good idea of what he would bring into the ring today.

 

“I thought that my jab and my movement were my two biggest strengths in this fight. Cutting off the ring was key.

 

“This PBC series and having the fights on a major network like CBS is huge for the sport of boxing. It’s great to get into so many more homes, and I hope that it helps make the sport more popular. Hopefully this reaches those kids who can’t afford premium cable and helps encourage more young kids to get into the sport.

 

“I’m not sure what’s next. I’ll wait for Al (Haymon) to let me know, but I’m really hoping for a shot at a top 10 fighter before the year’s over.”

 

JOEY HERNANDEZ

 

“Williams is probably the best fighter I’ve faced so far. He’s not the hardest hitter, but he fought a very smart fight. He used his height and reach to keep me off my jab and stay out of my range.

 

“Unfortunately I had to take punches to give punches in this fight. When I got inside I was able to get my punches off, but I couldn’t do enough to get the win.

 

“This was a great fight for the fans and fighting on CBS gave me a great opportunity for so many more people to see these fights.

 

“I’m still young at 30-years-old. I know I’ll be back in the ring. I do this because I want to and I love it, not because I need to.”

 

# # #

The card was promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel. For more information visit www.sports.sho.com, www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.groupeyvonmichel.ca, follow on Twitter at @SHOSports, @premierboxing and @yvonmichelgym, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog at http://theboxingblog.sho.com.
boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

ADONIS STEVENSON vs. SAKIO BIKA ARTUR BETERBIEV vs. GABRIEL CAMPILLO OFFICIAL WEIGHTS & PHOTOS

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Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) On CBS Saturday, April 4, At 3 p.m. ET/Noon PT From Pepsi Coliseum In Quebec City, Canada

WEIGH-IN PHOTOS: (Photo Credit: Amanda Kwok / PBC on CBS)

BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTOS: (Photo Credit: Amanda Kwok / PBC on CBS)

 

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS:

ADONIS STEVENSON: 174 ½ Pounds

SAKIO BIKA: 174 ½ Pounds

 

ARTUR BETERBIEV: 175 Pounds

GABRIEL CAMPILLO: 174 ½ Pounds

 

(TV Swing Bout)

JULIAN WILLIAMS: 154 ½ Pounds

JOEY HERNANDEZ: 155 pounds

 

# # #

 

PBC on CBS, headlined by the light heavyweight world championship fight between Stevenson and Bika, is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) and presented by Videotron and in association with Mise-O-Jeu.  Tickets are on sale now at the Pepsi Coliseum box office in Quebec, by calling (418) 691-7211 or (800) 900-7469, online at www.billetech.com, at GYM (514) 383-0666 and Champion Boxing Club (514) 376-0980. Ticket prices range from $25 to $250 on the floor.

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

ADONIS STEVENSON vs. SAKIO BIKAUNDERCARD   PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) On CBS

Saturday, April 4, At 3 p.m. ET/Noon PT From Pepsi Coliseum In Quebec City, Canada
Click HERE for photos from the undercard press conference

Credit: Amanda Kwok / PBC on CBS

 

QUEBEC CITY (April 2, 2015) – Before the inaugural Premier Boxing Champions on CBS telecast begins (3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT), a bevy of young stars will look to ignite the Pepsi Coliseum crowd in a series of undercard bouts beginning at 1 p.m. ET.

 

Tickets for the live event are on sale and can be purchased at the Pepsi Coliseum box office in Quebec, by calling (418) 691-7211 or (800) 900-7469, online at www.billetech.com, at GYM (514) 383-0666 and Champion Boxing Club (514) 376-0980. Ticket prices range from $25 to $250 on the floor.

 

PBC on CBS, headlined by the light heavyweight world championship fight between Adonis “Superman” Stevenson and Sakio “The Scorpion” Bika and featuring Artur Beterbievas he faces Gabriel “The Handsome Man” Campillo, is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) and presented by Videotron and in association with Mise-O-Jeu.

 

Headlining the undercard action is rising undefeated super welterweight contender Julian “J Rock” Williams (18-0-1, 11 KOs), who’ll be looking to continue his rise to stardom when he faces exciting Joey “Twinkle Fingers” Hernandez (24-2-1, 14 KOs)in a 10-round welterweight bout.

 

In another top non-televised match, Kevin Bizier (23-2, 16 KOs)returns to the ring in his hometown to face Fouad El Massoudi (12-4, 1 KO)in an eight-round super welterweight showdown. In an eight-round heavyweight scrap, undefeated Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas (15-0, 10 KOs) will face Oezcan Cetinkaya (19-9-2, 13 KOs).

 

In a pair of super welterweight bouts, Sebastien Bouchard (9-1, 3 KOs) will take on Denis Farias (19-6-2, 1 KO) in an eight-round clash and Custio Clayton (2-0, 1 KO) will faceRonald Berti (4-3-1, 1 KO)in a six-round showdown.

 

The remainder of the card is rounded out by a trio of Canadian prospects looking to build their pro resumes. Jan Michael Poulin (1-0-1) takes on Michel Tsalla (1-9-2) in a four round middleweight bout, Vislan Dalkhaev (1-0) battles Adel Hadjouis (7-3) in a four-round bantamweight bout and Shakeel Phinn (1-0, 1 KO) faces Roody Rene (0-2-1)in a four-round super middleweight bout.

 

An undefeated prospect hailing from f the great fighting city of Philadelphia, Williams is looking to keep his undefeated record intact and impress on the big stage. The 24-year-old faces a stiff test in Miami-native Hernandez. The 30-year-old Hernandez has battled some of the best in boxing and he intends to hand Williams his first professional loss when the two square off.

After dropping a title-eliminator by split decision in his last bout, Bizier, 30, returns to his hometown of Quebec looking to get back in the win column and into title contention. He hopes to build his case with a victory over the 27-year-old El Massoudi, who is making his North American debut. The fighter out of Clermont-Ferrand, Puy-de-Dome, France hopes to make an immediate impact in his battle against Bizier.

 

An undefeated heavyweight who represented Columbia at the 2008 Olympics, Rivashas fought exclusively in his adopted hometown of Montreal since turning pro in 2009. He’ll be making his first start at Pepsi Coliseum when he faces Cetinkaya, of Kassel, Hessen, Germany.

 

Fighting for the third time as a professional at Pepsi Coliseum, Quebec’s Bouchard is seeking his second consecutive victory since suffering his lone defeat. The 27-year-old faces a difficult test in the experienced Farias, of Aulnay-sous-bois, Seine-Saint-Denis, France. This is the 27-year-old Farias’ first fight outside of France.

 

A 2012 Canadian Olympian, Clayton looks to build his professional resume and show why he was considered one of the best amateur boxers to come out of Canada. The 27-year-old from Montreal battles the 27-year-old Berti from Bracquegnies, Belgium.

 

A latecomer to the professional ranks, Poulin is looking to build off of his first career victory in December 2014. The 32-year-old from Quebec faces the 31-year-old Tsalla, who also hails from Quebec.

 

Russian-born but fighting out of Quebec, Dalkhaev is making his second pro start after earning his first pro victory in December 2014. The 26-year-old will be tested by the 28-year-old Hadjouis, of Rueil-Malmaison, Haut-de-seine, France.

 

Rounding out the non-televised undercard, Phinn, 24, will be looking for his second pro victory after picking up a TKO win over Eddie Gates in January of this year. The Quebec-native battles the 36-year-old Rene out of Ontario.

 

Below are quotes from Thursday’s press conference:

 

YVON MICHEL, President of GYM

“In my opinion, the biggest fight in the history of Pepsi Coliseum was Pascal-Hopkins 1, but the scale of this event presented on a general network like CBS exceeds all that was done previously. “We are privileged to have the PBC series for this historic first. All of this is possible thanks to Adonis Stevenson. The undercard is also stacked.

 

“PBC on CBS will also ensure that the people there love the experience. There will be screens everywhere and spectacular entrances. It will be a unique experience!” added the promoter.”

 

BERNARD BARRE, Executive Vice President of GYM 

“There will be 10 fights  Saturday, including nine non-televised bouts that only people who bouthg tickets to be at the Coliseum will see.  It’s a Marathon!”

 

JULIAN WILLIAMS

“I’m just looking to perform well and get the win on Saturday. I’ve been preparing and training extremely hard for this fight. I’m taking it one fight at a time, and I’m definitely not looking past a fighter like Hernandez.”

 

JOEY HERNANDEZ

“There’s no excuses this time around. I’ve had some trouble motivating myself for training in the past, but not this time. I respect my opponent and have worked very hard to prepare for this fight. This will be the fight of my life and I’m looking to put on a great show on Saturday.”

 

KEVIN BIZIER“I’m happy to close the Coliseum. It is my home here. And you know I always do good fights! My opponent will come to fight and he loves going inside to brawl. It will be a good battle me and him. May the best man win Saturday.”

FOUAD EL MASSPOUDI

“It is a first time for me in Canada. I am ready for this fight and we have all the weapons to succeed”

 

OEZCAN CETINKAYA

“I’m glad to have the opportunity to box at the Quebec Coliseum. It’s a new year and I look forward to make a statement this year

 

SEBASTIEN BOUCHARD

“We worked hard in the gym and that labor paid off when I stopped Cédric Spera. We continued in the same vein for this fight.”

DENIS FARIAS

“It’s been over a month I’ve been training twice a day for this fight. I came here to win.”

JAN-MICHAEL POULIN

“I look forward to settling something Saturday. It’s nothing personal against Michel Tsalla, but I have a draw to erase against him.”

MARC RAMSAY (trainer of Vislan Dalkhaev)

“I have a special history with Vislan Dalkhaev. Initially, he came here on the recommendation of Artur Beterbiev. The initial goal was to help Artur to acclimate to Montreal and I knew that having a friend here would help. At the gym, however, I discovered that, not only were they friends of the each other, but Vislan was a high-level boxer.” 

#       #       #

 

For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.groupeyvonmichel.ca, follow on Twitter at @SHOSports, @yvonmichelgym, @AdonisSuperman and @Sakio_Bika, follow the conversation using #StevensonBika, become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog athttp://theboxingblog.sho.com.
boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

RISING STAR JULIAN WILLIAMS BATTLES JOEY HERNANDEZ PLUS, A HOST OF CANADIAN PROSPECTS & CONTENDERS TO BE FEATURED ON ADONIS STEVENSON VS. SAKIO BIKA UNDERCARD

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Don’t Miss Any Of The Action Leading Up To The Inaugural Premier Boxing Champions on CBS Event (3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT)

 

First Fight Starts At 1 p.m. at Pepsi Coliseum

 

Click HERE for photos from the undercard press conference

Credit: Amanda Kwok / PBC on CBS

 

QUEBEC CITY (April 2, 2015) – Before the inaugural Premier Boxing Champions on CBS telecast begins (3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT), a bevy of young stars will look to ignite the Pepsi Coliseum crowd in a series of undercard bouts beginning at 1 p.m. ET.

 

Tickets for the live event are on sale and can be purchased at the Pepsi Coliseum box office in Quebec, by calling (418) 691-7211 or (800) 900-7469, online at www.billetech.com, at GYM (514) 383-0666 and Champion Boxing Club (514) 376-0980. Ticket prices range from $25 to $250 on the floor.

 

PBC on CBS, headlined by the light heavyweight world championship fight between Adonis “Superman” Stevenson and Sakio “The Scorpion” Bika and featuring Artur Beterbiev as he faces Gabriel “The Handsome Man” Campillo, is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) and presented by Videotron and in association with Mise-O-Jeu.

 

Headlining the undercard action is rising undefeated super welterweight contender Julian “J Rock” Williams (18-0-1, 11 KOs), who’ll belooking to continue his rise to stardom when he faces exciting Joey “Twinkle Fingers” Hernandez (24-2-1, 14 KOs)in a 10-round welterweight bout.

 

In another top non-televised match, Kevin Bizier (23-2, 16 KOs)returns to the ring in his hometown to face Fouad El Massoudi (12-4, 1 KO)in an eight-round super welterweight showdown. In an eight-round heavyweight scrap, undefeated Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas (15-0, 10 KOs) will face Oezcan Cetinkaya (19-9-2, 13 KOs).

 

In a pair of super welterweight bouts, Sebastien Bouchard (9-1, 3 KOs) will take on Denis Farias (19-6-2, 1 KO) in an eight-round clash and  Custio Clayton (2-0, 1 KO) will face  Ronald Berti (4-3-1, 1 KO)in a six-round showdown.

 

The remainder of the card is rounded out by a trio of Canadian prospects looking to build their pro resumes.  Jan Michael Poulin (1-0-1) takes on Michel Tsalla (1-9-2) in a four round middleweight bout, Vislan Dalkhaev (1-0) battles Adel Hadjouis (7-3) in a four-round bantamweight bout and Shakeel Phinn (1-0, 1 KO) faces Roody Rene (0-2-1)in a four-round super middleweight bout.

 

“In my opinion, the biggest fight in the history of Pepsi Coliseum was Pascal-Hopkins 1, but the scale of this event presented on a general network like CBS exceeds all that was done previously,” said GYM president Yvon Michel. “We are privileged to have the PBC series for this historic first. All of this is possible thanks to Adonis Stevenson. The undercard is also stacked.

 

“PBC on CBS will also ensure that the people there love the experience. There will be screens everywhere and spectacular entrances. It will be a unique experience!”

 

An undefeated prospect hailing from f the great fighting city of Philadelphia, Williams is looking to keep his undefeated record intact and impress on the big stage.  The 24-year-old faces a stiff test in Miami-native Hernandez. The 30-year-old Hernandez has battled some of the best in boxing and he intends to hand Williams his first professional loss when the two square off.

 

“I’m just looking to perform well and get the win on Saturday,” said Williams. “I’ve been preparing and training extremely hard for this fight. I’m taking it one fight at a time, and I’m definitely not looking past a fighter like Hernandez.”

 

“There’s no excuses this time around,” said Hernandez. “I’ve had some trouble motivating myself for training in the past, but not this time. I respect my opponent and have worked very hard to prepare for this fight. This will be the fight of my life and I’m looking to put on a great show on Saturday.”

 

After dropping a title-eliminator by split decision in his last bout, Bizier, 30, returns to his hometown of Quebec looking to get back in the win column and into title contention. He hopes to build his case with a victory over the 27-year-old El Massoudi, who is making his North American debut. The fighter out of Clermont-Ferrand, Puy-de-Dome, France hopes to make an immediate impact in his battle against Bizier.

 

An undefeated heavyweight who represented Columbia at the 2008 Olympics, Rivas has fought exclusively in his adopted hometown of Montreal since turning pro in 2009. He’ll be making his first start at Pepsi Coliseum when he faces Cetinkaya, of Kassel, Hessen, Germany.

 

Fighting for the third time as a professional at Pepsi Coliseum, Quebec’s Bouchard is seeking his second consecutive victory since suffering his lone defeat. The 27-year-old faces a difficult test in the experienced Farias, of Aulnay-sous-bois, Seine-Saint-Denis, France. This is the 27-year-old Farias’ first fight outside of France.

 

A 2012 Canadian Olympian, Clayton looks to build his professional resume and show why he was considered one of the best amateur boxers to come out of Canada. The 27-year-old from Montreal battles the 27-year-old Berti from Bracquegnies, Belgium.

 

A latecomer to the professional ranks, Poulin is looking to build off of his first career victory in December 2014. The 32-year-old from Quebec faces the 31-year-old Tsalla, who also hails from Quebec.

 

Russian-born but fighting out of Quebec, Dalkhaev is making his second pro start after earning his first pro victory in December 2014. The 26-year-old will be tested by the 28-year-old Hadjouis, of Rueil-Malmaison, Haut-de-seine, France.

 

Rounding out the non-televised undercard, Phinn, 24, will be looking for his second pro victory after picking up a TKO win over Eddie Gates in January of this year. The Quebec-native battles the 36-year-old Rene out of Ontario.  

 

#       #       #

 

For more information visit www.sports.sho.com and www.groupeyvonmichel.ca, follow on Twitter at @SHOSports, @yvonmichelgym, @AdonisSuperman and @Sakio_Bika, follow the conversation using #StevensonBika, become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog athttp://theboxingblog.sho.com.
boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

ADONIS STEVENSON vs. SAKIO BIKA, ARTUR BETERBIEV vs. GABRIEL CAMPILLO FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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“I’ll definitely be going for the knockout this Saturday on CBS” – Adonis Stevenson

 

“I didn’t come here to Canada just to walk and look around.  I came here to take this belt back home” – Sakio Bika

 

Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) On CBS

Saturday, April 4, At 3 p.m. ET/Noon PT From Pepsi Coliseum In Quebec City, Canada

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Credit: Amanda Kwok / PBC on CBS

QUEBEC CITY, QUEBEC (April 1, 2015) – During Wednesday’s final press conference at Le Bonne Entente in Quebec City, both Adonis “Superman” Stevenson and Sakio “The Scorpion” Bika promised a knockout when they meet in the main event of the debut presentation of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on CBSTelevision Network this Saturday, April 4,  at 3 p.m. ET/Noon PT.

 

The hard-hitting Stevenson (25-1, 21 KOs) will defend his light heavyweight world championship against former super middleweight world champion Bika (32-6-3, 21 KOs) in the  main event from the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City.

 

The case was the same with the co-main event fighters as both undefeated light heavyweight and two-time Russian Olympian Artur Beterbiev (7-0, 7 KOs) and former light heavyweight world champion Gabriel Campillo (25-6-1, 12 KOs) expected to win via KO this Saturday afternoon.  Campillo, sporting a Tom Brady jersey, even promised he would win in dramatic fashion like this year’s Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots.

 

Below are quotes from the fighters and trainers from Wednesday’s press conference:

 

ADONIS STEVENSON:

“I know Sakio is going to try to take my title, but I’m prepared for that.

 

“I know he was a champion.  I made the move from 168 to 175 pounds and it worked well for me.  I expect him to bring his best at 175 pounds.  He’s a former champ so I’m preparing to face a champion.

 

“I’m looking for the KO because I’m from the Kronk Gym.  Knockouts sell.  But I can go 12 rounds, that’s not a problem.  I train for 12 rounds.

 

“My trainer has given me a great plan.  He knows Sakio Bika very well and we’ll see what happens in the ring.

 

“Bika is still going to have the same power moving up in weight.  He should actually be stronger.

 

“I’m very focused because I know Bika is very dangerous.  I know he’s going to come into the ring and try to give me trouble.

 

“I’m a knockout artist. I can do a lot in the ring, but first and foremost I’m a knockout artist.

 

“I’d love to unify the belts eventually, but I’ll let my manager Al Haymon take care of that.

 

“My mentor Emanuel Steward always told me that as soon as I enter the ring the knockout is what sells. I’ll definitely be going for the knockout this Saturday on CBS.”

 

“I’m ready to go toe-to-toe.  Adonis Stevenson vs. Sakio Bika on CBS, baby.”

 

 

SAKIO BIKA:

“To beat a great fighter you have to be your best.  I’m looking to take the WBC title back home.

 

“I’ve fought everyone – I’ve never ducked an opponent – and I don’t know if he can handle the pressure.

 

“I feel more comfortable at 175 pounds.  I want to test the big boy [Stevenson] and I feel like I can do that.  On Saturday we’ll see.

 

“He’s knocked people out, but I’ve never been knocked out.  On Saturday I’ll be the one to knock him out.

 

“I’m very hungry to get a world title back.  I trained very hard at light heavyweight to get a title back.

 

“I didn’t come here to Canada just to walk and look around.  I came here to take this belt back home and I’m very confident I’m going to do that.

 

“Training camp went very well, we put in good work and now we’re here in Canada ready to shock the world.”

 

 

JAVAN “SUGAR” HILL:

“Training camp was very good as always.  Nothing different, just hard work perfecting his boxing and the basic fundamentals.  We’re looking for him to make a mistake and catch him.

 

“The way you prepare for an unorthodox fighter like Bika is to make sure your basics are sound. You have to have a good jab, you have to have good movement and you have to have ‘super power’  And I have “Superman.

 

“Emanuel also told me the knockout sells.  It’s something that we both know and it’s something that is imbedded in us.  We’re looking for the knockout on April 4.  Sometimes I see things that Adonis is looking to do before he does it.  So I’ll just be sitting there waiting for Adonis to catch Sakio Bika making a mistake and getting a knockout.

 

“I’m super proud to represent Kronk Gym.  That’s why I wear my hat here.  Kronk to me is like my family name and that’s what I live by.  I was born into Kronk when I was a little kid going to a tournament with my uncle Emanuel and all I remember is the Kronk fighters winning.  And that’s what I do now: win.

 

“Adonis is an artist, he’s a KO artist.  My prediction for Saturday is a knockout on CBS.

 

“There’s been a lot of talk and now it’s time for action.  Toe-to-toe on April 4.  Don’t miss it.”

 

 

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM:

“We had a great training camp.  Everyone was relaxed.  We had great sparring.

 

“He was making 168 pretty easy, but stepping up he’s able to eat whatever he wants.  The weight is good.  We think he’s going to be good and strong at 175.  It’s a good move for him.

 

“He’s never had any problems with power, so I think the extra weight and energy should be good for him at light heavyweight.

 

“All this talk about Stevenson fighting (Sergey) Kovalev has motivated him pretty good.  I think it gave him a pretty good picture of how the business of boxing works.  He realizes that when the bell rings he needs to do something about it and he’s motivated by that.

 

“I can’t say if Stevenson is overlooking him because I’m not around him enough.  But I know the fans and media want to make the Kovalev fight.  It was good for Bika to hear that because it motivated him.  He knows he has an opportunity to do something about it.  On Saturday afternoon he can change all that.

 

“If Stevenson does what he says he’s going to do – meet him in the center of the ring and go toe-to-toe –  this is going to be a tremendous fight.

 

“If he comes to the center of the ring and fights and goes toe-to-toe then this fight won’t go the distance.  If Stevenson comes to trade I think he gets knocked out.   If he runs around the ring and boxes then it could be a different outcome.”

 

 

ARTUR BETERBIEV:

“I don’t think this is a big challenge for me.   I’m ready to face the world champions and raise the bar higher.  This is just another opponent for me.

 

“This is another step that will move me closer to facing the champions at 175 pounds.  I want to put on a solid fight and show that I’m one of the best fighters in this division.

 

“A knockout is never a goal for me.  I’m trying to show my work and my dedication in the ring, but usually that’s what happens.  Usually I finish with a knockout but that is not my main goal.  My main goal is to box and show my skills.

 

“My motivation is to face the champions.  That’s why I work so hard every day in the gym.  I will get there soon.

 

“Why not face Kovalev?  I’m ready.  When I turned professional my goal was to meet the champions.  He’s a champion now and I’d like to face the champions.”

 

 

GABRIEL CAMPILLO:

“We started training Jan. 1 and camp has been very good.  We’ve been working very hard and I think I’m in great condition for this fight.

 

“Beterbiev may not have a lot of professional experience, but he’s had a very long amateur career. So we know that he’s ready and is a good opponent for us.  We’ll see how he handles things once we get past the 5th, 6th and 7th rounds.

 

“To get ready for a hard-hitter like Beterbiev required lots of conditioning training.  We worked the neck and the chin a lot.  We think we’ve got a great chance in the second half of this fight though considering Beterbiev hasn’t really been tested like that.

 

“As for a prediction, I’m going to knock Beterbiev out in the seventh round.”