Tag Archives: Chris Eubank Jr.

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JERMALL CHARLO DEFENDS WBC MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE WITH STATEMENT ONE-PUNCH KNOCKOUT OF DENNIS HOGAN SATURDAY NIGHT ON SHOWTIME® FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

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Chris Eubank Jr. Earns Interim WBA Middleweight Title After Matt Korobov Suffers 2nd Round Injury       
 
Ryosuke Iwasa Wins Vacant Interim IBF Junior Featherweight Title with TKO Over Marlon Tapales
 
Watch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10:05 P.M. ET/PT On
SHOWTIME EXTREME®

Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos from Leo Wilson Jr./Premier Boxing Champions
 
BROOKLYN (December 8, 2019) – Undefeated WBC Middleweight World ChampionJermall Charlo (30-0, 22 KOs) successfully defended his title for the second time, stopping highly-ranked Irish contender Dennis Hogan (28-3-1, 7 KOs) with a showstopping one-punch knockout in the seventh round Saturday night live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
WATCH CHARLO’S FINISH
 
Houston’s Charlo, one of the most exciting young champions in the sport, delivered on his promise that he would close the show in spectacular fashion after going the distance in his previous two bouts. At :28 of round number seven, Charlo set Hogan up by feinting on the jab before connecting on a ferocious left hook to Hogan’s nose that sent him falling against the ropes. The 34-year-old Hogan, who was moving up after most recently challenging for the title at 154 pounds, rose to his feet before the ten count, but referee Charlie Fitch waived off the bout.
 
When Hogan was dropped in the seventh round, it was the third time in his career that he had been down and the second time during the fight. In the third round, a vicious left uppercut from Charlo just 12 seconds into the frame sent Hogan rolling backwards onto the canvas, but the Irishman rose quickly and acrobatically to his feet.
 
Despite throwing far fewer punches, Charlo had the more effective and efficient attack. Charlo landed 86 of the 266 punches he threw (32%) while Hogan landed just 71 of the 418 punches he threw (17%). Despite Hogan landing on 61 power punches compared to 57 for Charlo, Hogan was unable to hurt Charlo, while Charlo’s trademark power resulted in another highlight reel stoppage.
 
“I made it through 2019 and we’re going to 2020 with 20/20 vision,” said Charlo in the ring following the fight. “Shout out to Dennis Hogan for giving me real competition and for coming up to fight me.Of course my power prevailed tonight.  
 
“We’ve been working on that (the uppercut). I try to take him out with every punch and we work hard for it.  He got up and he fought like a champion. Ronnie (Shields) told me to cut him off. I just threw the shot and I made sure I threw it right on the money.
 
“The middleweight division is wide open. I’m the WBC Champion. I’m going to enjoy this and spend time with my team. I’m here to fight whoever.  You have to make the right decisions and do it at the right time. That’s what it’s all about.”
 
“I wanted to keep going but the decision was fair enough by the referee,” said Hogan. “I didn’t see the punch coming on the second knockdown. I was trying to keep boxing him but then all of a sudden I was on the ground and the fight was over.
 
“I’m looking forward to spending the Christmas holiday with my family, taking a month off, and then we’ll work on what’s next for me.”


In the co-featured bout, Chris Eubank Jr.‘s (29-2, 22 KOs) long-awaited United States debut ended in frustrating fashion as his opponent, Matt Korobov (28-3-1, 14 KOs), suffered a bout-ending injury at just :34 of the second round. Because it was ruled a self-inflicted injury, the result was officially declared a TKO victory for Eubank, who picked up the Interim WBA Middleweight Title.
 
Korobov, a top contender in the middleweight division, injured his left shoulder after throwing a punch that failed to land. After consulting with the ringside doctor, it was deemed that he would be unable to continue.
 
“I felt like I was about to get my swagger on,” Eubank told SHOWTIME reporter Jim Gray following the stoppage. “He just turned around and stopped. I was going to go jump on him. I guess something happened with his shoulder. There’s nothing to take from the fight. I threw like three or four punches. I was just warming up.”
 
In the buildup to the fight, Eubank, the son of British boxing legend and former two-division world champion Chris Eubank Sr., repeatedly said that there would be a new contender in the stacked middleweight division. Despite not getting a chance to introduce himself to the American audience in the way he envisioned, Eubank is looking ahead to a busy 2020.
 
“I’m the winner, I’m going to move forward and challenger for these belts,” said Eubank. “This wasn’t my dream.  My dream was to come here to America and make a statement. Now that I’ve landed and I settled with the new promotional team, I feel I can get the ball rolling for an active 2020.  It’s a shame it had to start like this, but it is what it is.”
 
“I was trying to throw the left hand straight, and I just felt the muscle immediately, like I pulled it,” said Korobov. “It was a lot of pain right away. I couldn’t fight with just one arm, especially being a southpaw.”
 
In a battle of former world champions to open the telecast, Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa (27-3, 17 KOs) knocked out the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales (33-3, 16 KOs) with a devastating straight left-hand at 1:09 of the 11th round. With the win, Iwasa earned the vacant Interim IBF World Junior Featherweight Title.
 
Iwasa, who held a six-and-a-half-inch reach advantage, was more consistent throughout the entirety of the bout, stringing together multi-punch combinations. The decisive moment of the 12-round fight came in the penultimate round, when Tapales was caught with a counter left-hand that connected flush on his chin and put him sprawled on the canvas. Tapales beat the count, rising after eight seconds, but referee Shada Murdaugh waved the fight off.
 
At the time of the stoppage, Iwasa led on all three scorecards (97-92, 95-94, 97-92). While Tapales was more accurate throughout the night, Iwasa was busier and landed 163 total punches compared to 148 for Tapales and held a 125-99 advantage in power punches landed. In the third round, Tapales was dropped to a knee after an accidental clash of heads. The clash, which was incorrectly ruled a knockdown, caused severe swelling under Tapales’ right eye and swung a would-be 10-9 round in his favor to a 10-8 round in Iwasa’s favor.
 
“I knew that I had him hurt in the 11th round and I was ready for the finish if the referee had let him keep fighting,” said the 29-year-old Iwasa. “It was a tough fight but I trained really hard for this performance. My height and reach was definitely an advantage. I was able to put my punches together well. He never hurt me but he was still difficult and I had to focus to figure him out.
 
“We’re ready for anyone next. I’m going to keep working hard to become a world champion again next year.”
 
On Saturday’s telecast it was announced that former two-division world champion Danny Garcia would return to the ring on Saturday, January 25 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center. During an interview with SHOWTIME Sports host Brian Custer, Garcia discussed his anticipated return to the ring.
 
“January 25, I’m back at Barclays Center, my home away from home,” Garcia said. “It’s a great atmosphere. Every time I’m here, I get the jitters, so I just can’t wait to be back. I’ve been in the gym for a month. I’m already ready. I don’t know who my opponent is, but whoever they put in front of me, I’m ready to get it on.
 
“First of all, thank God (Errol) Spence is doing good. I hear that he’s recovering well. I was really looking forward to fighting him but maybe he could be next after January 25. Pac-Man (Manny Pacquiao) or Spence, that’s who we want. 2020 is going to be a big year for me.”
 
Prior to the telecast on SHOWTIME, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN streamed live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and saw Ronald Ellis (17-1-2, 11 KOs) win a majority decision over Immanuwel Aleem (18-2-2, 11 KOs) in their 10-round super middleweight fight.
 
The back and forth affair saw both men grab the momentum of the fight at different points, but it was Ellis’ activity and ability to box effectively from the outside that gave him the edge. While one judge had the fight 95-95, he was overruled by two scores of 98-92 and 97-93 for Ellis.
 
The opening streaming bout saw Louisa Hawton (10-2, 5 KOs) retain her Interim WBC Atomweight Championship by unanimous decision in an all-action rematch againstLorraine Villalobos (4-3, 2 KOs).
 
Hawton came back after being dropped by a powerful left hook from Villalobos in the sixth round. Hawton was saved by the bell in the round and finished the fight strong, punctuating the action getting the best of several exchanges in the late rounds to win by the score of 95-94 on all three cards.
 
Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader will replay on Monday at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.
 
An industry leading production team and announce crew delivered all the sights, sounds and drama from Barclays Center. Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer hosted the telecast, versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo called the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi. Three Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy®award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was David Dinkins, Jr. and the Director was Bob Dunphy.


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ABOUT CHARLO VS. HOGAN
Charlo vs. Hogan saw WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo defend his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast began at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and featured middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title plus former world champions clashed when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa met for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title. The event was promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
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CHRIS EUBANK JR. & MATT KOROBOV TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

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Middleweight Star Chris Eubank Jr. & Top Contender Matt Korobov Discuss Upcoming Showdown for Interim WBA Middleweight Title On Saturday, December 7 Live on SHOWTIME® from Barclays Center in Premier Boxing Champions Event


 
BROOKLYN (November 19, 2019) – Middleweight star Chris Eubank Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov shared their thoughts on their upcoming showdown for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title taking place Saturday, December 7 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center,the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.


 
The middleweight division will take center stage on the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®telecast (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) that is headlined by undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo defending his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan. In the opening bout of the telecast, former world champions Marlon Tapales and Ryosuke Iwasawill meet for an interim 122-pound title.


 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com 
and barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.


 
Eubank will make his U.S. pro debut on December 7, after establishing himself as a contender at 160 and 168 pounds while fighting in his native United Kingdom. He most recently registered a career-best win over former champion James DeGale in February on SHOWTIME in London but will now move back down to 160 pounds to seek a title at middleweight beginning with the fight against Korobov.


 
Korobov will return to fight at Barclays Center for the second time nearly one year after losing a  close decision to Charlo as a late replacement opponent last December in Brooklyn. After fighting to a controversial draw against Immanuwel Aleem in May, Korobov will look to make a statement against Eubank to earn another shot at a world title.


 
Here is what Eubank and Korobov had to say about their matchup, a future fight with Jermall Charlo and more:


 
CHRIS EUBANK JR.


 
How does it feel to be making your U.S. pro debut on December 7? What are you looking to show the U.S. fans in this fight?


 
“It’s always been a dream of mine to fight in the U.S. Even with everything I’ve done in the sport over in the U.K, I’ve always felt there was something missing and I believe it was the urge to introduce myself and my fight style to the American audience of fight fans. Now I have my opportunity.”


 
Why did you make the decision to move down to middleweight for this fight? In what ways are you stronger at 160-pounds?


 
“I’ve never been a real super middleweight. I walk around at 170 pounds out of competition and have to eat breakfast the day of my weigh-ins to make 168. I believe at 160 I am going to be a beast now that I have become accustomed to fighting much bigger fighters over the last three years.”


 
What do you know about Korobov as a fighter and how do you see this fight going stylistically? 


 
“I think Korobov will be awkward until I pin him down and when I do, I will show the audience why I am a fan friendly fighter.”


 
If you’re able to get past Korobov, what would you think of a fight against Jermall Charlo? What advantages do you think you have in that fight?


 
“When I dispatch of Korobov, Charlo is definitely the name that’s on my radar.  He is seen as one of the elite fighters in the middleweight division and I intend to prove that he is not on my level. It will be satisfying stamping my mark on the division against Charlo after I beat Korobov. I think it will be a great fight for the fans as together our styles would make for a very exciting bout.”


 
MATT KOROBOV


 
Is it exciting to be back at Barclays Center as the co-main event to Charlo, because with a win, you have an opportunity to show him why you deserve the rematch?


 
“Yes, it is very exciting to be back at Barclays Center, only this time I will leave with the belt. I thought I deserved an immediate rematch against Charlo because many people believed I won. I think when I defeat Eubank Jr. and win this belt, it will force Charlo to give me a rematch. We shall see. I only focus on one fight at a time and right now I am only focused on Chris Eubank Jr.”

How do you stay mentally focused on the next fight when you believe you had two bad scorecards go against you?


 
“I do not focus on the past. I focus on the future because I can only control the future. I will be my best and my best will be good enough against Chris Eubank Jr. We’re doing everything possible in camp to make sure I’m ready.”

What do you make of Eubank as a fighter? How do you expect the fight to look stylistically?


 
“Eubank is a very good fighter, one of the best. I believe I am a more disciplined fighter. I think my technique is better, but he does some things very well. Let’s see on December 7. I don’t want to give away the weaknesses I see, but the style difference will make a very entertaining fight for the fans. 

Do you think you have the advantage as far as boxing skills over Eubank? How do you counter his possible size advantage, given that he’s coming down from 168 pounds? 


 
“I think my skills are better.  I do not think weight will be an issue. He is professional and I am professional. If anything, perhaps it is a little more difficult for him to make 160 after years at 168. I will fight anyone between 160 and 168 pounds, so I don’t see any problem with weight for me, perhaps more for him. We will find out December 7.”


 
#          #          #


 
ABOUT CHARLO VS. HOGAN

Charlo vs. Hogan will see WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo defend his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.


 
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title plus former world champions clash when the Philippines’Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa meet for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title


 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports,
 www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,
 follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
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FORMER WORLD CHAMPIONS COLLIDE AS THE PHILIPPINES’ MARLON TAPALES FACES JAPAN’S RYOSUKE IWASA FOR THE INTERIM IBF SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 LIVE ON SHOWTIME

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Undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo Headlines Against Highly-Ranked Contender Dennis Hogan in Premier Boxing Champions Event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn

BROOKLYN (November 13, 2019) – Former world champions and top-rated contenders clash when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa go toe-to-toe for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title on Saturday, December 7 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo defending his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off in the co-main event for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title. 

The non-televised undercard will feature a clash between once-beaten middleweight contenders as Immanuwel Aleem (18-1-2, 11 KOs) takes on Ronald Ellis (16-1-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round fight, unbeaten Ghanaian bantamweight Duke Micah (23-0, 19 KOs) in a 10-round duel against the Philippines’ Joseph Ambo (9-2-1, 6 KOs) and Australia’s Louisa Hawton (9-2, 5 KOs) battling Los Angeles-native Lorraine Villalobos (4-2, 2 KOs) for the Interim WBC Strawweight Championship.

Rounding out the lineup is Harlem’s Arnold González (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round welterweight fight, the pro debut of heavyweight Steven Torres in a four-round showdown against Mexico’s Daniel Franco (2-2, 2 KOs), plus a pair of Dallas-natives in action as unbeaten super middleweight Burley Brooks (4-0, 4 KOs) steps in for a six-round attraction while Amon Rashidi (7-1, 5 KOs) competes in a six-round bout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Fighting out of Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte, Philippines, Tapales (33-2, 16 KOs) captured a bantamweight world title in 2016 with a comeback knockout victory over Panya Uthok while down on the scorecards. The 27-year-old has fought professionally since 2008, and rides a 12-fight winning streak into this bout. This will be his third consecutive appearance in the U.S. after scoring knockout victories over Fernando Vargas and Roberto Castañeda so far this year.

The 29-year-old Iwasa (26-3, 16 KOs) made his U.S debut in February with a technical decision victory over veteran contender César Juárez, rebounding from losing his 122-pound title to T.J. Doheny last year. Fighting out of Kashiwa, Japan, Iwasa won the title in 2017 by stopping Yukinori Oguni and defended it successfully against Ernesto Saulong. Iwasa enters December 7 the winner of seven of his last eight fights. 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

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Middleweight Star Chris Eubank Jr. & Top Contender Matt Korobov Square Off Saturday, December 7 Live on SHOWTIME® from Barclays Center in Premier Boxing Champions Event for Interim WBA Middleweight Title

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Undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo Defends Against Highly-Ranked Contender Dennis Hogan in Main Event

BROOKLYN (October 23, 2019) – Middleweight star Chris Eubank Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov will square off in the co-main event on Saturday, December 7 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in a Premier Boxing Champions event. Eubank and Korobov will meet for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title. 

The middleweight division will take center stage on the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) that is headlined by undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo defending his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan.

Eubank is coming off a career-best win over British super middleweight rival James DeGale in February on SHOWTIME and will go down to the 160-pound class to take on Korobov, a southpaw who gave Charlo a tougher than expected test as a late replacement last December at Barclays Center. 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

“Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Matt Korobov is a high stakes showdown that makes Saturday, December 7 a tremendous night of championship middleweight action live on SHOWTIME at Barclays Center in Brooklyn,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Chris Eubank Jr. is already a star in the U.K. and is poised to make a big splash in his U.S. debut, while Matt Korobov is eager to build on his impressive performance in a loss to Jermall Charlo last year. Expect fireworks as Eubank and Korobov look to steal the show and walk away the title on December 7.”

This will be the first time that Eubank (28-2, 21 KOs) has fought in the U.S. as a professional. Although he has competed at super middleweight, the 29-year-old from Brighton, Sussex in the United Kingdom will meet Korobov at his more natural weight of 160 pounds for the interim title. Since losing to George Groves in 2018, the son of British legend Chris Eubank Sr.  has put together two victories, including the decisive unanimous decision over former super middleweight champion DeGale in his last fight in London.

“I’m ready to take the United States and the middleweight division by storm,” said Eubank.  “I’m excited to come down to 160 pounds where I naturally belong, and I don’t see anybody being able to touch me at this weight class.  America is where I learned how to fight as an amateur in Las Vegas and 13 years later I’m finally going to make my U.S. professional debut.  I can’t wait to show the fans in the U.S. that I’m the best middleweight in the world.” 

The 36-year-old Korobov (28-2-1, 14 KOs) is coming off a majority draw against Immanuwel Aleem in his last fight in May, after serving notice to the middleweight division that he would be a threat when he lost a hard-fought decision to Jermall Charlo in December. Born in Orotukan, Russia and now living in St. Petersburg, Florida, Korobov was a late replacement and gave Charlo a tougher fight than many experts expected. Korobov had been riding a four-fight win streak before the Charlo fight, having previously lost a middleweight title fight to Andy Lee in 2014.

“I am more motivated for this fight than any other so far in my career,” said Korobov. “Against Jermall Charlo, I didn’t get the decision. In my mind, I won that fight at Barclays Center. This time around, I will leave no doubt against Eubank. This opportunity gives me a chance to right a wrong. Fans will see the best Matt Korobov on December 7.”

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

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CHRIS EUBANK JR. SCORES CAREER-DEFINING VICTORY OVER JAMES DEGALE IN SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT GRUDGE MATCH SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM THE O2 IN LONDON

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Undefeated Heavyweights Joe Joyce Knocks Out Bermane Stiverne In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Opener


 
Watch The Encore Presentation Tonight At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®


 
Click HERE
 For Photos; Credit: Ian Walton/SHOWTIME


 
LONDON – February 23, 2019 – Chris Eubank Jr. earned a career-defining victory with a hard-fought unanimous decision over British rival and former two-time world champion James DeGale in a super middleweight grudge match Saturday on SHOWTIME from The O2 in London. 


 
Eubank, the son of British boxing legend and former two-division world champion Chris Eubank Sr., floored DeGale twice en route to the clear decision, which was scored 114-112, 115-112, 117-109.  VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: https://s.sho.com/2E6mWI8


 
Working in his first bout with a full-time trainer, Eubank fought a controlled fight.  The former world title challenger floored DeGale in a rough moment in the second, stunning his rival with a big left hook against the ropes and flooring him moments later with a strong right cross that sent DeGale to the canvas for just the second fight of his career.


 
DeGale, who established his championship career as a slick southpaw, was unable to jab at range and couldn’t handle the constant pressure from Eubank.  The former Olympic Gold Medalist resorted to lunging from the outside and was largely ineffective on the inside, often clinching while in close quarters. 


 
“I knew he was going to come at me like that,” Eubank said.  “He’s a slick southpaw, but my game plan worked. Smart pressure and not getting too ahead of myself.  He’s a hell of a fighter, hell of a competitor but at the end of the day my head and my heart won this fight.”


 
“There was a lot of animosity leading to this fight.  I told him, ‘This is my time,’ and it was.  He’s a veteran of the game, he throws big shots and he manages to stay up.  To get up after those knockdowns is a statement about his tenacity and the type of fighter he is.”


 
The second knockdown came in the 10th as Eubank landed a powerful left hook that buckled DeGale with just 30 seconds left in the round.  Once again, DeGale tried to clinch to avoid the knockdown, but his hand touched the canvas and was ruled just the third knockdown of his career.


 
After the fight, DeGale, who was the first British fighter to earn an Olympic Gold Medal and a world championship, appeared to be leaning toward retirement. 


 
“I definitely I didn’t do enough,” DeGale said.  “He was on it and I didn’t do enough.  You have to do more than enough to counter someone that came forward like Chris. 


 
“I’m going to go back and talk to my team, my family, and decide.  I left my mark in boxing.  I won an Olympic Medal, two world titles and it may be the time to hang it up.”


 
While DeGale contemplates retirement, Eubank has his sights set on another shot at a world title. 


 
“This was the most important fight of my career, and I made a statement.  I’m back where I’m supposed to be, at the top of the food chain. I’m coming for all the belts in the middleweight and super middleweight division.  I’m fighting everyone they put in front of me.


 
“I’m glad to make my American debut here on SHOWTIME. I’m glad to be introduced to the American public this way – making a statement.”


 
In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader, undefeated heavyweight Joe Joyce kept his knockout record intact with a sixth-round TKO of former heavyweight world champion Bermane Stiverne.


 
After an exciting first round, Joyce opened up the action in the second with a monstrous straight right and unloaded from bell to bell against a defenseless Stiverne, who continued to punch back despite eating damaging shots.  After a series of combos in the opening minute of the third, Joyce caught Stiverne with a straight right hand to send him to the canvas for the fifth time in his professional career. Stiverne survived the round while throwing looping shots but failed to return any meaningful punches.


 
Joyce, the 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist, consistently set up a powerful straight right behind an accurate and effective left jab throughout the fight.  With Joyce (8-0, 8 KOs) continuing to tee off against a largely defenseless Stiverne, referee Howard Foster stepped in to halt the contest at 2:26 of the sixth.  Stiverne (25-4-1, 21 KOs) did not protest the stoppage.


 
“Big respect to Stiverne – like a true champion, he’s very tough and was still throwing shots, but I guess I was just a bit too much,” Joyce said.  “It was about being patient.  He’s such a tough guy that he took those shots no problem. 


 
“I was hitting him with everything I had, including the kitchen sink.  I listened to Abel (Sanchez) in the corner, did everything he said and it went well.  My jab was really effective.  I’m a seasoned vet. I picked up my poise and remained calm along the way.


 
“Big things are coming.  My next one will be for the WBA Regular (Title) and I’ll be back in the gym soon. I need to have a couple more fights like this and then I’ll be ready for the big champions.”


 
Highlights of former world champion Lee Selby’s lightweight debut were featured during Saturday’s telecast.  A former champion at featherweight, Selby (27-2, 9 KOs) overcame a second round accidental head butt to win a 12-round unanimous decision (116-112, 116-112, 115-114) over Omar Douglas (19-3, 13 KOs).


 
An encore presentation of Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader will air tonight/Saturday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME, Sunday at 9 a.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME and Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.


 
Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer hosted the doubleheader from London with versatile combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein.  Two Hall of Famers rounded out today’s telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr.  The Executive Producer was David Dinkins Jr. with Rick Phillips directing.  Saturday’s telecast was a co-production with ITV. 


 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,
 
subscribe to the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

 

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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JAMES DEGALE vs. CHRIS EUBANK JR. FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS FOR SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT SHOWDOWN THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHOWTIME® FROM THE O2 IN LONDON

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“It’s retirement time.  Whoever loses this fight is finished.” – DeGale


 
“There’s nothing he can do in that ring that I can’t handle.  I’m going to box his head off.” – Eubank


 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Begins Live At 3:45 p.m. ET/12:45 p.m. PT



Click HERE For Photos; Credit: Ian Walton/SHOWTIME


 

 
LONDON – February 21, 2019 – Former two-time super middleweight champion James DeGale and former world title challenger Chris Eubank Jr. faced off at the heated final press conference on Thursday for their 12-round showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING this Saturday, February 23 live on SHOWTIME (3:45 p.m. ET/12:45 p.m. PT) from The O2 in London.


 
DeGale (25-2-1, 15 KOs) and Eubank (27-2, 21 KOs) will finally settle their long-running score when the two outspoken rivals meet in London. In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature bout, Olympic Silver Medalist and top prospect Joe Joyce (7-0, 7 KOs) will measure against former WBC Champion Bermane Stiverne (25-3-1, 21 KOs) in a 12-round heavyweight clash.


 
Former two-division world champion, Chris Eubank Sr., was in attendance and not shy about stating this is not going to be an easy fight for his son. “This is a 50/50 fight and for the first time I am petrified of what the outcome can be.  I am petrified that Junior may not win this fight,” he said.


 
The event is promoted by Poxon Sports and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Joyce-Stiverne is promoted in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions. The doubleheader will air live in the U.S. exclusively on SHOWTIME and on ITV Box Office in the U.K.


 
Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will host the doubleheader from London with combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein.  Three Hall of Famers will round out the telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial ringside scorer, and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. 


 
Here’s what the fighters and their respective camps had to say during Thursday’s press conference at Intercontinental at The O2: 


 
JAMES DEGALE:

“I vacated my title for fights like this.  Chris Eubank has been calling my name for a long time and finally I get a chance to punch him in his face.


 
“I have no respect for him.  None.  This guy is a diluted idiot.  And on Saturday night I can’t wait to deal with him.  I’m going to come and give it to him properly.  He can’t box.  We’ve all heard this before. 


 
“This is the biggest fight of his career.  It’s retirement time.  Whoever loses this fight is finished.  It’s do or die on Saturday…His retirement fight is here.  It’s his last fight, I promise you that.


 
“I’m proven.  I’ve been there, done that.  I’ve won everything.  He’s done nothing.  And I’m going to retire him.


 
“Eubank is a tough fighter, he’s strong.  He has a lot of good attributes, but I’m too good for him.  To mix it up and go to the very top you need more than strength and toughness.  Every time he’s stepped up, he’s lost. 


 
“The fear of losing is because I know what’s on the line.  This is do or die.  If I can’t beat him, if I can’t beat Chris Eubank Jr., I’m done. 


 
“A lot of people think I’ve seen better days.  A lot of people think I’m on the decline.  I’ve had issues in the past, but I can honestly say I’m fully fit.  I’m in the best shape I’ve been for a long, long time, physical and mentally.  When I feel like I feel no one can beat me.


 
“If I can’t beat Chris that means I’m shot, that means I’m over the hill.”


 
CHRIS EUBANK JR.:

“This guy is a bum.  He talks a good game.  He’s going to have a good go, but at the end of the day I’m going to be too much for him. 


 
“We are both at a stage where we can’t lose.  We are both fighting for our careers.  He knows he can’t handle me.  He’s asking himself, ‘Can I survive?’  And the answer is absolutely not.


 
“There’s nothing he can do in that ring that I can’t handle.  I’m going to box his head off. 


 
“I’ve got a full time trainer now.  For the first time in my career, I have a trainer day in and day out focusing on strategy to prepare me for what James is – a slick southpaw.  That’s why I’m so confident.  If he wants to run, we have the gameplan.  If he wants to stand and swing, we have the gameplan.  We have a plan for everything. 


 
“What matters is that James’ career is over in a few days.  I sent him a message after he lost to [George] Groves saying he needs to keep up because we are going to fight one day.  And now that we’re finally here I look into his eyes and I don’t see a confident guy. 


 
“It’s my time.  I’m expecting the best he’s ever been and that’s still not going to be enough. 


 
“I’m a world-level fighter.  Anyone in the boxing game knows that.  This is my opportunity to prove that once and for all to set the record straight and prove I’m the real deal.  I know this is a defining fight in my career.  It is do or die and I’m ready for that. 


 
“James knows what’s coming.  At the end of the day, his last performances haven’t been up to par, but i don’t think he respected his [past] opponents.  He respects me, and I respect him and that’s why this is a real fight.


 
“I’ve been in the game for a long time but this is just the beginning of a long journey for me.  This is my biggest fight.  I have to win.  If I win, I’m back on the world stage.  Beating James DeGale sets me up for a world title which is the whole reason I started in this game.”


 

 
JIM MCDONNELL:

“There are levels to boxing.  Chris was a good prospect coming through but he’s not on the same level as James.  He’ll find out what it takes to be a world champion.  James DeGale is levels above Chris Jr.


 
“Chris may have all the drive he needs but he doesn’t have the skills to beat James DeGale. 


 
“I know James is not losing.  James DeGale is probably the best British fighter I’ve seen in my country.”


 

 
CHRIS EUBANK SR.:

“I’ve seen the pinnacle of James and it’s intoxicating. With Chris, not everything I’ve said has been applied.  It may have been heard, but not applied.  What I said works. I wouldn’t have 19 championship wins if it didn’t. 


 
“I’m not convinced [Chris will win] because James DeGale has pedigree.  Being an [Olympic] Gold Medalist and former world champion is real.  I respect the man’s abilities.  Junior hasn’t. 


 
“My son looks at the physical aspect of boxing and, from a physical point of view, I don’t think there is anyone who can stand with him.  But boxing isn’t just physical – it’s also spiritual, and that’s where Junior lacks.  I don’t know whether he has that. 


 
“This is a 50/50 fight and for the first time I am petrified of what the outcome can be.  I am petrified that Junior may not win this fight. 


 
“This is the wisdom of someone who has been here.  You never underestimate your opponent based on past performances.  Anyone who thinks this guy is on a slide because of past performances is making a mistake. 


 
“From a physical aspect, Junior has the upper hand.  From a spiritual aspect and pedigree aspect, James has the upper hand, and that’s why this is a 50/50 fight.


 
“I do know Chris has learned and let’s see what is produced.  It can be a brilliant fight.”


 

 
PAULIE MALIGNAGGI:

“I like our chances.  I know the guy that I have been in camp with.  The things I’ve seen, I like. They are much more positive this time around. 


 
“You can’t underestimate a guy like Eubank.  He always comes to win.  But, regardless of the gameplan, there is a certain mentality and my guy has it.  He’s a Gold Medalist and he knows what mentality to bring on Saturday.


 
“James has won two major world titles, an Olympic Gold Medal.  Chris has had some good wins but when he went to that elite level, he lost.  Chris is a good fighter but he’s not beaten this level of opposition.”


 
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,
 
subscribe to the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO PRESENT HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT BETWEEN JAMES DeGALE AND CHRIS EUBANK JR. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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Two-Fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Telecast Includes Heavyweight Prospect Joe Joyce vs. Veteran Bermane Stiverne; Live On SHOWTIME And The Network’s Streaming Service

 

NEW YORK – February 6, 2019 – SHOWTIME Sports will present the highly anticipated super middleweight matchup between fierce British rivals James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr. Saturday, February 23 live on SHOWTIME from London’s The O2. In the co-featured bout, fast rising prospect Joe Joyce battles former world champion Bermane Stiverne in a 12-round heavyweight clash. The event will air live on air and via the networks’ streaming service at a start time to be announced.


 
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions on ITV in the U.K. and promoted by Poxon Sports. The co-feature bout is promoted in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions.

 

DeGale (25-2-1, 15 KOs) and Eubank (27-2, 21 KOs) will finally settle their long-running score when the two outspoken rivals finally go toe-to-toe in front of the excitable hometown London crowd in the all-British affair.

 

The 33-year-old DeGale was the first British boxer to win a Gold Medal in the Olympics and a world championship as a professional. He won his world title with a unanimous decision over Andre Dirrell in 2015 and made two successful defenses before fighting to a draw against Badou Jack in 2017. DeGale avenged his December 2017 loss to Caleb Truax to reclaim his IBF Super Middleweight belt in April 2018 on SHOWTIME. After voluntarily vacating the belt, DeGale stopped veteran Fidel Munoz his last time out.

 

The 29-year-old Eubank Jr., the son of former two-division world champion Chris Eubank, is highly motivated to challenge for more world titles after he lost a unanimous decision to George Groves for the WBA Super Middleweight belt one year ago. The rivalry between DeGale and Eubank has been brewing for several years after a series of run-ins. The duo has sparred each other in the gym and have traded several verbal jabs on social media. Eubank, who has been training in Las Vegas at the Mayweather Boxing Club, has won nine out of his last ten fights and has registered knockouts in eight of those wins.

 

The 6-foot-6 Joyce, of London, England, has started his professional career with a 100 percent KO rate after turning professional in 2017 at the age of 32. An accomplished amateur, Joyce claimed the super heavyweight silver medal for Great Britain at the 2016 Olympic Games. Joyce, who trains in Big Bear, Calif. under renowned trainer Abel Sanchez, knocked out Joe Hanks at 2:25 of round one in his last fight on the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury undercard.

 

Stiverne (25-3-1, 21 KOs), who was the first ever Haiti-born boxer to own a piece of the heavyweight crown, won the WBC title with a convincing sixth-round TKO over Chris Arreola in 2014. Stiverne then lost the belt in his next fight against Deontay Wilder, despite becoming the first fighter to take the current American champion the distance. The 40-year-old has not fought since his loss in the 2017 rematch against Wilder but is anxious to bounce back with a statement win over the highly regarded Joyce. 
boxing, UK Boxing

JOYCE FACES ACID TEST AGAINST STIVERNE AT THE O2

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Undefeated British sensation Joe Joyce faces Former World Champion Bermane Stiverne

Defends Commonwealth title alongside return of Former World Champion Lee Selby on massive DeGale v Eubank Jr. card, LIVE on ITV Box Office

Fast rising star makes fearless move in just EIGHTH pro fight to fast track towards World Title

Stiverne says it will be Joyce’s nightmare when he gets knocked out 

Legendary promoter Don King promises to ‘Re Joyce’ when Stiverne recreates McCall victory over Lewis in London 

London (23 January 2019) Poxon Sports and PBC are delighted to announce that heavyweight sensation Joe Joyce will defend his Commonwealth title in the biggest test of his unbeaten career when he takes a gigantic leap up to confront the Former WBC World Champion Bermane Stiverne on Saturday 23rd February at The O2, exclusively live on ITV Box Office.

Joyce vs. Stiverne, promoted by Poxon Sports in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions, will feature alongside the return of Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby as one of the chief-supporting contests on an action-packed show, headlined with the thrilling all-British clash between fierce rivals James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr.

The 6ft 6in ‘Juggernaut’ from Putney, South West London, has destroyed all seven of his opponents since turning professional in October 2017 after capturing the Silver medal at the Rio Olympics and has singled himself out as one of the most feared talents in the heavyweight division.

It’s a monumental test for Joyce to be facing a former World Champion in just his eighth fight, the rock-solid and sledge-hammer hitting Stiverne, born in Montreal, Canada, of Haitian descent and based out of Las Vegas, has fought some of the biggest and best in the division, including Deontay Wilder and Chris Arreola.

The fight has added bad blood thrown in resulting from a sparring session between Joyce and Stiverne in which Joyce was angered by comments from Stiverne in an interview afterwards when he said he took Joyce to school.

Joyce said, “I had respect for Bermane Stiverne. We sparred in Las Vegas; he said he took me to school in an interview etc, it got ugly and it made this fight happen. I tried to be respectful of him, but he’s rude and was having none of it. He is a former World Champion that has gone 12 rounds with Deontay Wilder and will give me a real challenge; but my engine and my power will be too much for him, a fact he should be aware of!”

Joyce’s promoter Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports, said, “After only seven fights Joe Joyce has become the number five ranked Heavyweight in the world. But the spectacular way in which he has won all of his seven fights by knockout have made him the number one fan favourite in the Heavyweight Division. Taking on the heavy-handed Former World Champion Stiverne shows that no challenge is too big for Joe as he continues to march towards the Heavyweight World Championship. Simply put: Joe Joyce has become must see TV, so make sure to tune in on February 23 or come and watch him live at the O2 in London!”

Stiverne said, “I told my promoter Don King to get me any man on earth and I will fight for the right to prove myself to the world. Then the phone rings, it’s Don, he tells me Joe Joyce – a boxer with only seven bouts – agrees to meet me! ‘Seven bouts?’. Seven fights and he has the audacity to box me? I have stopped Chris Arreola, Ray Austin, the then undefeated Kerston Manswell – and a boxer with seven fights wants to box me?!.’ I said to Don ‘Sign it, take it, grab it,’ I’m ready. Seven fights – and he wants to box me? For me it is a dream come true – but for Joyce it will be a nightmare. I will knock out Joe Joyce and step over him to KO Anthony Joshua. I’m primed and ready. The real Bermane Stiverne will be there on February 23 and will knock out Joe Joyce en route to regaining my heavyweight crown.”

Stiverne’s legendary promoter Don King, added, “It is with my greatest pleasure that Don King Productions can announce our return to Jolly Old England – the ‘Cradle of Boxing” where my pugilistic giant – the Former Heavyweight Champion of the World Bermane Stiverne begins his comeback at the expense of the Giant Joe Joyce. Unfortunately, for the local fans of Joe there will no ‘re Joycing’ – as my once – and future champion Bermane Stiverne will slay Joyce just like St. George did the dragon of old. But no matter, we will pick up the pieces and bring back Joyce just as I have brought back and helped build many a future together. I recall when I came here with Oliver McCall and he was given no chance against Lennox Lewis. Then the underdog became the top dog when Oliver KO’d the previously unbeaten champ and we went home with the title. History will repeat itself of February 23 when Bermane sends another undefeated Englishman to defeat. Now retooled, resuscitated, renewed, rejuvenated and recommitted Bermane Stiverne will resurrect his career on February 23 when the ‘Lord of Ring” crushes the “Lord of the World” – ‘Juggernaut” Joyce on his inexorable march to regain the heavyweight championship of the world. Bless all British fans, God Save the Queen – but heaven help Joe Joyce! We will see you on February 23rd.”

WBC World Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder also put forward his thoughts on the intriguing match up, he said, “Joe Joyce will be a good test for him (Stiverne). I’ve seen Joe Joyce before. He’s a good fighter. Joe Joyce fought Joe Hanks on my undercard with Tyson Fury but I didn’t get a chance to see him fight that night. But I’m looking forward to seeing him against Stiverne.”

Richard Poxon, UK Promoter for PBC, said, “I’ve known Joe from his amateur days up in Sheffield. His success at the Olympics didn’t surprise me at all. He’s transitioned well to the pros now and is clearly in a hurry. The heavyweight division is the one that everyone is looking at again and I fully expect Joe to be in the thick of the action in the coming year. Taking on a former WBC World Champion in only your eighth fight clearly shows what Joe’s ambitions are.”

Since embarking on his pro career in his quest to become World Heavyweight Champion, the quietly spoken Joyce has let his destructive fists do the talking in making bold statements to make the boxing world sit up and take notice of the fast-rising star.

In October 2017 he astounded critics when he choose to fight the hardened Former British title challenger Ian Lewison, who had just extended big-punching Dillian Whyte to ten rounds, for his pro-debut and pounded him down in eight rounds. 

Then in only his fourth fight with only 12 rounds under his belt and inside seven months of turning pro, Joyce demolished the Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Lenroy Thomas in just two rounds – setting a new record by heavyweight boxer to win the Commonwealth belt.

In his last fight, American fights fans got a brief taster of what the British star is all about when he smashed through Joe Hanks in a round to win the WBA Continental title at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles in making his glittering U.S debut.

J

oyce, now ranked #5 in the world by the WBA and progressing quickly towards a World Title shot, faces unquestionably his sternest career test to date against the vastly experienced and equally big-hitting Las Vegas based Haitian who has knocked out 21 opponents of his 25 wins in his 29 fight career.

Stiverne formerly held the WBC crown for two years after defeating Chris Arreola on points in April 2013 to win the title and then in the rematch destroying him inside six rounds in the first defence of the title in May 2014.

The rock solid Stiverne then pushed the dynamite-punching Deontay Wilder the full twelve round distance in the next defence of his WBC World Heavyweight title clash in January 2015. Stiverne became the first man to take Wilder beyond who at that point had obliterated all his opponents inside four rounds. In the rematch nearly three years later, Stiverne stepped in at the last minute when Wilder’s original opponent Luis Ortiz failed a drugs test and due to his inactivity was stopped in a round.

Stiverne is now looking to return to the elite heavyweight mix and a victory over Joyce would propel him back into the limelight and on course towards a potential world title opportunity.

Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality fromwww.sportandmusic.co.uk.

This fight will be shown exclusively on ITV Box Office. For further information and updates, please go to www.itvboxoffice.com 

Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK.

The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK. The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivalled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US. PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States. 

The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office.

This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open. rell, ‘����Gb�

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DeGALE v EUBANK JR ANNOUNCED FOR 23 FEBRUARY; FIRST MAJOR UK EVENT FOR ITV AND PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

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James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr will clash at London’s O2 on 23 February in the first major UK event of the new deal between ITV and Haymon Sports’ Premier Boxing Champions, it has been announced. 

The Super Middleweight match, to be screened exclusively live on ITV Box Office, will take place against a backdrop of hostility between two fighters who have long made no secret of their mutual dislike and are relishing the prospect of settling their differences in the ring.

James DeGale has already fired off an opening shot in the direction of his opponent. 

He said: “Really excited and looking forward to being back home to a fight of this magnitude.  “I believe Eubank doesn’t have the pedigree, the size and skill to beat me.  “Eubank is a decent fighter but every time he has stepped up he has been found out. He has called my name for a long time so now I’ve finally got my chance to zip his lips.”

Eubank Jr responded in kind, saying: “DeGale is going to get the schooling of his career. A good old-fashioned hiding.”

Poxon Sport is the promoter of DeGale v Eubank Jr, as the exclusive promoter of all UK PBC events on ITV. 

The fighters faced off at the Hotel Café Royal, in London on Thursday, January 3rd. Live streaming of the press conference was hosted by ITV’s Gabriel Clarke on the ITV Box Office Facebook page and Youtube channel. 

Full details of the undercard and how to access this ITV Box Office PPV event across all platforms will be announced and made available in due course. For updated and further information, please go to  www.itvboxoffice.com Tickets for the fight go on sale on Friday 4 January at midday to O2 members and to the wider public at midday on Monday 7 January. Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality from www.sportandmusic.co.uk.

News of the DeGale v Eubank Jr showdown follows the announcement at the end of December of two major world title fights to be shown free to air on ITV4 as part of the broad scope of the ITV and PBC deal. 

On Sunday, January 13, Jose Uzcategui defends his IBF Super Middleweight World Championship against unbeaten top challenger Caleb Plant.  Coverage will come live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. 

The following weekend, on 19 January, ITV4’s coverage will come live from Las Vegas where Manny Pacquiao will defend his WBA world welterweight title against Adrien Broner.  The exclusive ITV4 coverage will also include the much-anticipated showdown between Badou Jack and Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight title.  

Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK. The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK.

The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivaled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US.

PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States.   The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office. 

This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open. 

boxing, World Boxing Super Series

WBSS Championship Final Super Middleweight Division: George Groves vs. Callum Smith

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GEORGE GROVES vs. CALLUM SMITH
WBA Super Middleweight World Championship
LIVE ON SUPER CHANNEL IN CANADA
Friday, September 28, 2018
2:00 p.m. ET / 11:00 a.m. PT
WBSS Championship Final
Super Middleweight Division
 
George Groves vs. Callum Smith
 
AIRING LIVE THIS FRIDAY IN CANADA
EXCLUSIVELY ON SUPER CHANNEL
  (Picture courtesy of World Boxing Super Series)
 

EDMONTON, Canada– The postponed first-season finale of the World Boxing Super Series’ (WBSS) super middleweight division will take place this Friday (Sept. 28), when World Boxing Association (WBA) super middleweight world champion “Saint” George Groves is challenged by undefeated fellow Brit, Callum “Mundo” Smith, to air live from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, starting at 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT, exclusively on Super Channel in Canada.

Super Channel acquired the exclusive rights in Canada to broadcast the World Boxing Super Series from MP & Silva, a leading international media company that provides media rights, digital, technology and sponsorship services.

 

 

Groves vs. Smith, presented by Sauerland Event, was postponed from its originally planned June 2 date due to Groves’ shoulder surgery from an injury he suffered in his February17th WBSS semifinals 12-round unanimous decision victory against Chris Eubank, Jr.

The 30-year-old Groves (28-3, 20 KOs), fighting out of London, knocked out defending WBA super middleweight champion Fedor Chudinov (14-1) in the sixth round of their May 27, 2017 title fight.

His first title defense was a fourth-round stoppage of Jaime Cox in the opening round of the WBSS, followed this past Feb. with his aforementioned win over Eubank (26-1). In addition to Chudinov, No. 1 -tournament seeded Groves has defeated world champions Glen Johnson and James DeGale, “It has been a long preparation for the fight. I am fit, I am healthy, I have put in the work.

“This will be the toughest test yet in the tournament, but I am boxing better than ever, and I don’t see Callum posing a threat, I expect another comfortable win. We are preparing for the very best Smith possible. We know what to do and I am capable of it, I just need to get it done.”

Smith (24-0, 17 KOs), 28, won a 12-round unanimous decision from previously undefeated Erik Sjoglund (26-0) in the WBSS opening round. The Liverpool boxer whose three brothers are boxers was supposed to fight former WBA and WBO light heavyweight Juergen Braehmer in the WBSS semifinal round, but Braehmer pulled out and he was replaced late by unbeaten Nicky Holken (13-0), who Smith defeated by way of a 12-round unanimous decision.

“I am in a good place, feeling good,” WBC Diamond belt holder Smith commented. “I feel comfortable in winning. I just feel I am a better fighter than anyone he has fought in this tournament. I feel confident I will come out on top. The fans should be in for a treat, I am looking forward to becoming a world champion.”

 

 

Five exciting fights on the “Groves vs. Smith” card, promoted by Sauerland Event, will air exclusively in Canada on Super Channel.

In the co-featured event, Eubank (26-2, 20 KOs) takes on his Irish opponent, J.J. “Slick” McDonagh (16-4, 8 KOs), in a 10-round bout. British super lightweights Darren Surtees (8-0, 5 KOs) and Kane Baker (8-4) square off in an eight-round bout, undefeated British cruiserweight Mikael Lawal (7-0, 5 KOs) meets Tamas Kozma (6-6-3, 3 KOs) in a six-rounder, and Dutch heavyweight Kem Ljungquist (4-0, 2 KOs) faces Mourad Omar (4-1, 4 KOs), of Egypt, in an eight-round match to open the broadcast.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

All WBSS super middleweight championship fights will also be available on Super Channel On Demand.

Super Channel has aired major boxing events during the past two years like Brook vs. Spence Jr., Pacquiao-Horn, Eubank, Jr. vs. Abraham, Lomachenko vs.Marriaga, Crawford vs. Indongo, Smith vs. Williams II, Frampton vs. Donaire, Fury vs. Seferi, Frampton vs. Jackson, and the entire first WBSS season.

To watch all the World Boxing Super Series action live, as well as more exciting boxing to come, fight fans in Canada can contact their local cable provider to subscribe to Super Channel and all that it offers, including premium series, movies and much more, for as low as $9.95 per month.