Tag Archives: Danny Garcia

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SUGAR RAY LEONARD & DAVID DINKINS JR. MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL HIGHLIGHTS

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“These are the type of fights that are going to bring boxing back to where it used to be.” – Sugar Ray Leonard

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,

Live in Primetime on CBS From Barclays Center in Brooklyn

 

NEW YORK (March 1, 2017) – Boxing Hall of Famer and former undisputed welterweight world champion Sugar Ray Leonard and David Dinkins Jr., SHOWTIME Sports Senior Vice President and Executive Producer, hosted a media conference call on Wednesday to discuss Leonard joining the CBS broadcast team for Saturday’s welterweight unification between undefeated champions Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia.  Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manger, SHOWTIME Sports, began the call with some opening remarks.

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, broadcast will air live on CBS from 9-11 p.m. ET/6-8 p.m. PT from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.  The broadcast is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and produced by SHOWTIME Sports® for CBS Television, both divisions of the CBS Corporation.

 

Leonard will join the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING broadcast team on Saturday alongside host Brian Custer, play-by-play voice Mauro Ranallo, International Boxing Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and Sports Emmy® Award-winning reporter Jim Gray.

 

A five-division titlist and one of the most decorated boxers of all-time, Leonard brings unique perspective to the broadcast booth having been in a similar situation to Thurman and Garcia more than 35 years ago. Garcia, the WBC 147-pound titleholder, and Thurman, his WBA counterpart, will unify the exact same titles that Leonard (WBC) and fellow Hall of Famer Thomas Hearns (WBA) unified in their classic 1981 Fight of the Year.

 

Leonard made his professional boxing debut on CBS in 1977, less than one year after he won gold at the ‘76 Olympics in Montreal as part of what is considered the greatest American boxing team in Olympic history. The March 4 event will reunite Leonard with former CBS producer and current SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Executive Producer Dinkins Jr.

 

Below is what the principals said Wednesday on the conference call:

 

SUGAR RAY LEONARD

 

“I was telling David [Dinkins] today, this is the perfect matchup. I mean, you have two incredible fighters, each one of them with their own style and confidence with Keith and Danny. What also raises an eye is the unification. That’s big time for any fighter. And if these fighters can live up to their expectations, I think it’s going to be a home run, without question.

 

“These are the type of fights that are going to bring boxing back to where it used to be. It’s going to require these type of fights, these type of individuals, these type of athletes, these type of potential super stars, to really change and make boxing what it used to be.”

 

On the importance of having these types of fights on network television and what it takes to bring the sport back to what it used to be…

“These two young men, these two champions, these undefeated fighters, they fit the mold. I talk to people all of the time about what fights they want to see and this is a fight that has star-quality to it.”

 

On the advantages of each fighter…

“I look at Keith, and I’ve been watching, over and over, tapes of his previous fight. Again, each of them bring something to the table. Keith Thurman, seems to me, a little more fundamentally sound than Danny Garcia. But Danny Garcia, has a neutralizer. One thing I think is a big factor for the actual fight itself, is that both guys are great champs and both of them could take punches. So, I don’t know. Put it this way, I wouldn’t bet my house.

 

“I do favor Thurman because he just seems to be a little bit more poised and collected. He just seems to be that kind of guy. First of all, he would never give up. Nor would Danny. But I just lean… it’s just my gut that tells me that Keith is a little bit more solid than Danny.”

 

On Danny Garcia…

“He’s just a guy that has that internal fortitude. He has heart, big heart. And he doesn’t give in. I think he’s the kind of fighter, you know where people short-change him. But I look at him and he’s one of those fighters that, I don’t train – I never train at all – but he’s the kind of fighter that I would enjoy training. Because he deserves to be up there.”

 

On the importance of facing the best opponents possible…

“That’s extremely important. Fortunately, I was in an era where there were just a lot of guys out there who were so talented. If given the chance they would prove to be champions.

 

“I always thought that we had to continue to raise the bar as a fighter, as a champion, and continue to fight better and better competition. When I was fighting, I swear, I wanted to be the underdog -psychologically, spiritually and mentally, if I wasn’t challenged, if I wasn’t considered somewhat of an underdog, I couldn’t perform the way I normally would.  It’s what would get me going.

 

“I have said this a number of times: This fight is going to be bigger and better than what we anticipate because of what is at stake.

 

“The advantage [for me] was the television network exposure, without question.  I loved that. It pumped me up because I loved the exposure. I loved the attention. I loved the fights and that’s what also helped me to be the fighter that I became.

 

On what it’s like being ringside and broadcasting a unification welterweight fight much like the fights and titles he’s fought for…

“It is an out-of-body experience. It’s déjà vu. Like holy, I am 60. It’s a kind of thing that is so special and it’s so rare of a unification it seems like. It speaks volumes to me as far as the significance of it. And these guys, Keith and Danny, they know it. They realize it.”

 

DAVID DINKINS JR.

 

“When we were discussing the upcoming Thurman-Garcia fight in our senior staff meeting, many of us longtime fight fans thought about Ray’s first fight with Thomas Hearns and the many parallels there with Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman. You have two undefeated fighters and two titlists who have been on a path toward each other since Danny moved up from being a unified champion at super lightweight and moved into the welterweight ranks and gained a world title at 147 pounds.

 

“Ray and Tommy were two stars who it just seemed inevitable that they would fight. We feel the same way about Keith and Danny. You have two undefeated champions and it’s inevitable that they would meet and declare who would be the No. 1 fighter at 147 pounds.

 

“I’m so happy that Ray can join us for this telecast and he and I have discussed over the past few days the many similarities between his circumstance during the Golden Era of Boxing when he had rivals like [Roberto] Duran, Hearns and [Wilfred] Benitez at 147 pounds.

 

“To make the situation even sweeter it reunites myself and Ray after we had worked together years ago at CBS. He along with Tim Ryan and Gil Clancy formed a very entertaining announce team. Ray was in and out of retirement at that point. So his full-time, part-time job up at CBS was terrific fun. We got to see some great fights and work together. And now he joins Mauro Ranallo and Al Bernstein, who is also a Hall of Famer just like Ray is, ringside this coming Saturday. It’s just incredible great fortune that Ray was available to join us and be a significant contributor on Saturday.”

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

 

“SHOWTIME continues to deliver the strongest lineup of any network in boxing. We are delivering the biggest and most meaningful fights and delivering to the largest possible audience. With none on pay-per-view.

 

“This Saturday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will present the most anticipated fight of the year live on America’s most watched network, CBS. Danny Garcia versus Keith Thurman is without question the best fighting the best. They are two undefeated champions with a combined record of 60 wins and zero losses and squaring off in the prime of their careers to determine who the top dog is in boxing’s marquee division.

 

“SHOWTIME has really made it our mission to televise the top-rated champions against the top-rated challengers in boxing’s most compelling weight classes.

 

“The fans have taken note, and the momentum continues to rise. Adrien Broner and Adrian Granados fought a close fight two weeks ago that was our most watched main event in two years.

 

“This is just the second primetime fight on CBS in nearly 40 years since Ali-Spinks in 1978. We are grateful to our colleagues at CBS who are helping to deliver this important event for boxing. It is critical that we put our best foot forward in a very hyper competitive television market, and that is certainly what we are doing Saturday night on CBS.”

 

ABOUT GARCIA vs. THURMAN

Danny Garcia vs. Keith Thurman is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlinesSHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

 

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ALL ACCESS DAILY: Thurman vs. Garcia, Part One and Two VIDEOS

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ALL ACCESS Daily: Thurman vs. Garcia – Part One | 4-Part Digital Series<br><br><iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/rar-Iby2K5I” frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>

ALL ACCESS Daily: Thurman vs. Garcia – Part Two | 4-Part Digital Series<br><br>

<iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/ovGSeBSXudc” frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen></iframe>

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SHOWTIME SPORTS® PRESENTS “ALL ACCESS DAILY: THURMAN vs. GARCIA” IN ADVANCE OF MARCH 4 WELTERWEIGHT UNIFICATION

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 Four-Part Digital Series Immerses Viewers in Fight Week with Undefeated Champions, Delivering Daily Coverage Wednesday through Saturday

 

Part One Available Now!

YouTube: http://s.sho.com/2lW2akK

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Live in Primetime on CBS From Barclays Center In Brooklyn

 

SHOWTIME Sports presents “ALL ACCESS DAILY: Thurman vs. Garcia,” a four-part digital series delivering daily coverage of fight week leading up to the March 4 welterweight unification between undefeated world champions Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman.  ALL ACCESS DAILY, an online exclusive installment inspired by the three-time Sports Emmy® Award-winning series “ALL ACCESS”, is the first real-time offering of the immersive documentary program.

 

Part One of the four-part series is available now.  New installments of ALL ACCESS DAILY will be available each day by 10 a.m. ETthrough Saturday, March 4 on SHO.com, the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel (@shosports) and the SHOWTIME Sports Facebook page.

 

Viewers will join Garcia and Thurman as they embark for New York from their respective hometowns of Philadelphia and St. Petersburg, Fla., for what is expected to be the biggest boxing event in Barclays Center history.    From the moment they hit the Big Apple to the first meal following Friday’s weigh-in, ALL ACCESS DAILY will peel back the curtain of fight week as the undefeated 147-pound champs prepare to unify boxing’s glamour division.

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, broadcast will air live on CBS from 9-11 p.m. ET/6-8 p.m. PT from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.  The broadcast is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and produced by SHOWTIME Sports® for CBS Television, both divisions of the CBS Corporation.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

ABOUT GARCIA vs. THURMAN

Danny Garcia vs. Keith Thurman is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlinesSHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Welterweight World Title Unification Headlines

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS,

Presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday, March 4

From Barclays Center in Brooklyn

 

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

BROOKLYN (March 1, 2017) – Welterweight world champions Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia participated in a media workout at world famous Gleason’s Gym Wednesday afternoon in advance of their primetime showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, this Saturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

Also in attendance Wednesday and opening the broadcast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT were undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin and once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota, who meet in a super welterweight world title eliminator.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

Additional fighters participating in the workout and competing in undercard action on Saturday included light heavyweight contender Andrzej Fonfara, who takes on former world champion Chad Dawson, popular local unbeaten Heather Hardy, who battles Edina Kiss in a featherweight attraction, super lightweight Mario Barrios, who meets Yardley Suarez in an eight-round fight, unbeaten contender Sergey Lipinets and Florida’s Clarence Booth, who meet in super lightweight action and 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins, who makes his pro debut.

 

Here is what the fighters

 

KEITH THURMAN

 

“It feels great to be in this big fight. This is what we’ve been dreaming of. It feels like my destiny. When you put so much hard work into the sport, everyone knows you’re planting a seed. You have to watch it grow and nurture it before it starts to bear fruit.

 

“Brooklyn has one of a kind fight fans. The history of this city and the history of boxing in this city is exceptional. The appreciation they have for fighters is one of a kind. It’s always a blessing to perform for these fans.

 

“I expect the best of Danny Garcia. This is the biggest fight of either of our careers. I saw the best of Shawn Porter, but Keith Thurman was able to rise to the top once again.

 

“When you look at the facts and our records, it doesn’t get bigger than this. There’s no comparison to my other fights. This is the biggest of my career.

 

“The ultimate goal is to unify the division. It’s a blessing right now to have two undefeated world champions. These titles have only been brought together a few times in history. It’s a great opportunity. The winner is going to be that man to beat at 147-pounds.

 

“I believe that we will see the next superstar in the welterweight division after we unify these titles. Whoever becomes the undisputed welterweight champion of the world, will be on another level. We’re going to take our first step toward that Saturday night.

 

“I want to touch as many households as I can touch. I want the kids who come from the struggle; I want them to see me. They have to learn that they’re going to earn their stripes in life from training hard in the gym.”

 

DANNY GARCIA

 

“I’ve trained hard for this fight and I’m ready. Saturday night, I’ll be the new unified champion of the world.

 

“The atmosphere at Barclays Center is amazing. I’ve always requested to fight here and I’m glad they accept me. I can’t wait to fight in front of those great fans again.

 

“I’m prepared for the best Keith Thurman. I’m ready to make adjustments and fight like a true champion and get the victory.

 

“I’ve been training a long time for this fight. I felt great in the gym and I was really comfortable the whole time. I’ve had no struggle to make weight. I feel strong and I’ve had no injuries. That’s a perfect camp. We train hard, we train smart and we’re prepared for Saturday night.

 

“I always train to impress. I don’t need to add any extra pressure just because it’s a big audience. I have to go in there and keep my composure and be the same Danny Garcia that I always am.

 

“We just have to stay focused on Saturday night. We’re just worried about my game plan for the fight. There’s no distractions for me. I think everything will go smoothly.

 

“There’s always been some tough fights in the legacies of other great fighters. Each fight is a learning experience. Everything in my career has led me to this fight.

 

“People want to see the best fight the best. This is my chance to prove it to the world that I’m one of the best fighters in the world.

 

“I’m definitely a better fighter than Keith Thurman. He’s never been in the ring with a guy like me. Saturday night, I’m going to prove it. I’m the better counter-puncher, I’m sharper and I’ll prove it on Saturday night.”

 

ERICKSON LUBIN

 

“It feels great to be here. Training camp was amazing. We had lots of sparring and made lots of improvements from my last fight. I feel strong and I can’t wait until Saturday night.

 

“I don’t let anything get to me. I know what I can do. I’m going to go in there confident and be dominant. I’m going to be aware of everything and keep my mind sharp in the ring.

 

“My coach does the studying of the tape but I know he’s a strong Mexican power-puncher. We know he’s going to be aggressive, but we’re ready for any style he comes with on Saturday night.

 

“For every opponent, the game plan is different. We have a game plan, but we’ll be ready to adjust. At the end of the day, I have to go in there and win, and win impressively.

 

“Being on this card is a wonderful feeling. I get to open up for this tremendous fight that I think is going to be the Fight of the Year. I’m going to set the bar real high.

 

“I’m coming for that number one spot Saturday night. After that, I become the mandatory for Jermell Charlo. I’m going to win this fight in spectacular fashion, mark my words.”

 

JORGE COTA

 

“I know that it’s been a long lay-off but I’ve been staying in the gym and staying ready. I don’t think I’ll have any ring rust once I get in there.

 

“I’m going to take it round-by-round and see what he brings into the ring. I’m going to make adjustments off of what I see. I’ll assess the situation and take it on from there.

 

“I have a lot of motivation coming into this fight and I’m ready to move a step closer to a world title. This opportunity is something that I won’t let slip by.

 

“I know I have a very tough opponent in front of me, but I am too strong and I will be too good on Saturday night.”

 

ANDRZEJ FONFARA

 

“I got some rest after my last fight and get myself back together. The decision was to change trainers to Virgil Hunter. I’m happy with that decision and I had a great camp.

 

“I have more focus during this camp. It’s just my family and the gym. The same thing every day. I’m in possibly the best shape I’ve been in my life.

 

“I have a great jab that I have to use. I think I’m a stronger and more physical fighter than Chad Dawson. I know how to box inside and outside. Dawson has a lot of experience but I know I will be ready for anything he brings.

 

“There are a lot of Polish fans I’m expecting to see on Saturday night. I know that Brooklyn has a large population of Polish boxing fans. I’m ready for that feeling. I’m back and I’m going after a world title.”

 

HEATHER HARDY

 

“I’ve had my eyes on this fight date for a while. I knew that I had to get on this card. There had to be at least one woman representing our sport on this card.

 

“The women have to work three times as hard just to get to this point. Girls train just as hard as men and we’re working towards getting our due.

 

“We don’t just represent ourselves when we get in the ring, we represent our sport. There’s always an incredible amount of pressure, no matter what the stage is.

 

“Just before this fight camp I was coming off of an eight-week MMA camp. Thinking about a girl who can only hit me with two hands, I’m not worried at all.

 

“I’m excited to get back in the ring and put on a show for my loyal and dedicated fans who love to watch me fight.”

 

MARIO BARRIOS

 

“I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to be on this card. We’re more than prepared for this fight. We have a tough opponent but I’m ready to take everything we’ve done in the gym and put it into the ring.

 

“My team has watched some tape on my opponent. I personally don’t like to watch too much of their tapes. Everyone fights different opponents differently. We came up with a game plan for this fight and that’s what we’ve been working on all camp.

 

“A win means everything to me. It’s going to help me climb the ladder and help me take another step in my career.

 

“I love fighting in New York. The people in this city are incredible and they come out for big fights like this. It’s huge to be on this stage and I’m going to take advantage of it.”

 

SERGEY LIPINETS

 

“The bright lights have never scared me away. I’m more motivated by the importance of this card. All I care about is what happens in the fight. I don’t see any distractions. I’m focused on my opponent.

 

“I prepare for every fight like it’s for a world title. It’s the same system for getting ready. But I am aware that people have a lot of tape on me now, so my team has been working on bringing something different to each fight.

 

“As of now, I’m the IBF mandatory, but I’m not looking past Clarence Booth. I want to take care of this fight and then move on to whoever is holding that belt in June or July. I want a world title fight next.

 

“I respect every man who steps into that squared-circle. Clarence Booth is a great fighter and I respect him for getting in the ring with me. He’s in my way and I plan on putting on a great performance.”

 

CLARENCE BOOTH

 

“Being in camp with Keith Thurman is like being in the school of boxing. We spar, get some good rounds in and he always gives me good advice.

 

“I’m prepared for anything on Saturday night. I’ve watched him a little bit. I see he’s a big puncher, but I’m a big puncher too. I’m ready to get to work.

 

“I can do it all in the ring. I can brawl, box and adjust to my opponent. I’m excited for this fight on Saturday.

 

“This is a tremendous opportunity for me and I’m just excited to get in the ring and take advantage of it on Saturday night.”

 

RICHARDSON HITCHINS

 

“I’m excited to make my pro debut. I’ve fought in the Golden Gloves at Barclays Center before so there’s no pressure heading into this one.

 

“I’ve had a long amateur career and I think all of that prepared me for this moment. Everything I’ve been doing since I was 13 has led to this.

 

“I don’t know too much about my opponent but I’m going to go in there and adapt. We’ve trained to be prepared for this.

 

“I’ve always seen myself fighting on big cards and one day I’ll be the headliner. We’re finally on the right track towards what I’m looking to accomplish.”

 

# # #

 

ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA

Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlinesSHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Andrzej Fonfara Training Camp Quotes & Photos

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 Polish Light Heavyweight Contender Battles Former World Champion Chad Dawson in Undercard Action Saturday, March 4 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Stephanie Trapp
 
BROOKLYN (February 28, 2017) – Exciting heavyweight contender Andrzej Fonfara has wrapped up training camp and is ready to battle former world champion Chad Dawson on Saturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, in front of the passionate Polish boxing fans in Brooklyn.
The March 4 event is headlined by the highly anticipated welterweight world title unification showdown between Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia that serves as the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battling once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what Fonfara had to say about his first training camp with Virgil Hunter, his matchup and more:
 
On his recent training camp with Virgil Hunter:
“Virgil Hunter and I had a great final few days of training camp.  All the sparring and training is finalized and now we are focused on making weight.  My body feels rejuvenated and I’ll be at my best going into this fight.”
On facing former world champion Chad Dawson:
“Chad Dawson is a very skilled fighter who has won at the elite level.  He’s a former world champion who’s been in the ring with the best fighters in the division.  I know he will be a difficult challenge, but I’m confident I’ll be victorious.”
On the long layoff since his last fight:
“I felt it was a good thing to take some time off after my fight with Joe Smith.  I was able to reflect on my performance, and make the move to start training with Virgil Hunter.  I incorporated Pilates into my training regimen and I feel great.  My mental focus is sharp.  Everyone will see the improvement in my performance.”
On the current state of the light-heavyweight division:
“The division is filled with many great fighters.  In my opinion, Andre Ward is the pound-for- pound champion.  For top to bottom the division is loaded with great talent.  My goal is to win this fight, and march back toward a world title fight.  I know with hard work that I can accomplish that feat.”
On fighting in Brooklyn at Barclays Center…
“I’ve always dreamed of fighting in New York and now that will become a reality.  There is so much history of boxing in New York and I just want my debut to be a memorable one.  I’m sure the fans there will be filled with energy so I’m ready to entertain them with a tremendous night of boxing.”
#  #  #
ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA
Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SUGAR RAY LEONARD TO JOIN SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING ON CBS BROADCAST TEAM FOR DANNY GARCIA vs. KEITH THURMAN WELTERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP UNIFICATION EVENT ON SATURDAY, MARCH 4

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Former Undisputed Welterweight Champion to Provide Unique Insight as Garcia and Thurman Join Boxing Royalty in 147-Pound Unification

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Live on CBS from 9 – 11 p.m. ET / 6 – 8 p.m. PT from Barclays Center In Brooklyn

 

NEW YORK (Feb. 28, 2017) – Boxing Hall of Famer and former undisputed welterweight world champion Sugar Ray Leonard will join the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS broadcast team on Saturday, March 4 for GARCIA vs. THURMAN.  The event will be headlined by the welterweight world championship unification bout between undefeated champions Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman.  GARCIA vs. THURMAN is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and will take place at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, home of BROOKLYN BOXING.

 

The live broadcast will be produced by SHOWTIME Sports® for the CBS Television Network and will air live on CBS from 9-11 p.m. ET / 6-8 p.m. PT.  Garcia vs. Thurman will be the first world title unification bout in any weight division on live network television in over two decades and just the second primetime boxing presentation on CBS in nearly 40 years.  The first was headlined by a thrilling welterweight world championship fight between Thurman and Shawn Porter, a 2016 Fight of the Year candidate and one of the most watched boxing events of the year.

 

With SHOWTIME boxing analyst and active prizefighter Paul Malignaggi scheduled to fight in London that evening, the broadcast seat opened up for Leonard.  He will join SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING host Brian Custer, play-by-play voice Mauro Ranallo, International Boxing Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and Sports Emmy® Award-winning reporter Jim Gray on Saturday.

 

Leonard made his professional boxing debut on CBS in 1977, less than one year after he won gold at the ‘76 Olympics in Montreal as part of what is considered the greatest American boxing team in Olympic history.  He served as a boxing analyst for the network in the early 1980s during a temporary retirement, calling fights alongside CBS boxing announcer Tim Ryan and Hall of Fame trainer and analyst Gil Clancy, before eventually resuming his professional boxing career.  The March 4event will reunite Leonard with former CBS producer and current SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Executive Producer David Dinkins Jr., and director Bob Dunphy, the son of legendary boxing broadcaster Don Dunphy.

 

A five-division titlist and one of the most decorated boxers of all-time, Leonard brings unique perspective to the broadcast booth having been in a similar situation to Thurman and Garcia more than 35 years ago. Garcia, the WBC 147-pound titleholder, and Thurman, his WBA counterpart, will unify the exact same titles that Leonard (WBC) and fellow Hall of Famer Thomas Hearns (WBA) unified in their classic 1981 Fight of the Year.

 

Heading into the March 4 unification, Garcia and Thurman own similar records to those of Leonard and Hearns prior to their ‘81 showdown. Thurman is 27-0 and Garcia is 33-0, while Leonard was 30-1 and Hearns was 32-0.  And like Leonard and Hearns, Thurman and Garcia are in their 20’s and their respective primes as they approach the career-defining fight.

 

“I’m thrilled to be working with the SHOWTIME team and to be part of the CBS broadcast of this great event,” said Leonard.  “I’ve watched Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman develop as young men and mature both inside and outside of the ring.  Now they are both champions facing their biggest test to determine the man to beat in the welterweight division.  This fight reminds me of my incredible bout against Tommy Hearns.  There’s nothing better in boxing than when champions meet to unify a division, and I truly believe this fight could go either way.  I’m so excited and I can’t wait to be ringside this Saturday at Barclay’s Center.”

 

“When Ray and I last spoke in January, we’d reminisced briefly about our work in boxing together and we’d promised to get together soon,” said Dinkins.  “Who knew it would be to work on the biggest fight scheduled for 2017?  I’m thrilled that Ray is available to join our SHOWTIME broadcast team on March 4.  His experience in fighting on the big stage for high-stakes will help put Garcia vs. Thurman into its proper context.

 

“Garcia vs. Thurman is a battle of undefeated champions,” Dinkins continued.  “The winner of this fight will be the No. 1 welterweight in the world.  Ray has been there.  His classic battles with Wilfred Benitez, Roberto Duran and Thomas Hearns at welterweight made him a legend. It is only fitting that he will be ringside when a new star is born.”

 

Leonard was down on the scorecards when he knocked out Hearns in the 14th round of the 1981 fight.  It was only the second world championship unification match in welterweight history.  Garcia and Thurman will face off in the 10th unification in division history, and only the third between undefeated world champions.

 

After the Hearns fight, Leonard made one more defense of his welterweight belts before eventually moving up to challenge Marvin Hagler at middleweight.  Leonard has served as a TV personality and boxing analyst since retiring from the ring in 1997, including a stint on CBS.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

ABOUT GARCIA vs. THURMAN

Danny Garcia vs. Keith Thurman is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,Saturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event, undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @DannySwift, @KeithFThurmanJr, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.  PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Undefeated Prospect Mario Barrios Battles Mexico’s Yardley Suarez While Super Lightweight Contender Sergey Lipinets Faces Clarence Booth in Undercard Action Saturday, March 4 From Barclays Center in Brooklyn

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Plus! Undefeated Heather Hardy Faces Hungary’s Edina Kiss While Unbeaten Prospect Thomas Velasquez, Featherweight Rickey Lopez & 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins

Round Out Exciting Undercard

 

BROOKLYN (February 27, 2017) – A pair of exciting matchups highlight undercard action as unbeaten prospect Mario Barrios (17-0, 9 KOs) takes on Mexico’s Yardley Suarez (20-6, 11 KOs) in a super lightweight bout while super lightweight contender Sergey Lipinets (11-0, 9 KOs) faces Clarence Booth (14-2, 7 KOs) on Saturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

The March 4 event is headlined by the highly anticipated welterweight world title unification showdown between Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia that serves as the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battling once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

Additional undercard action will feature popular local star Heather Hardy (18-0, 4 KOs), who will now battle Hungary’s Edina Kiss (13-2, 8 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight bout, while Philadelphia-native Thomas Velasquez (6-0, 4 KOs) enters the ring in a six-round lightweight affair.

 

Rounding out the night of fights are Colorado’s Rickey Lopez (16-4, 6 KOs) in a six-round featherweight clash against Houston’s Pablo Cruz (14-1, 6 KOs) and 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins, who makes his pro debut in a four-round welterweight contest against Mexico’s Mario Perez (1-0).

 

A tall fighter for his division at more than six feet, the 21-year-old Barrios picked up seven victories in a jam-packed 2015 in which he stopped five opponents inside the distance. The San Antonio-native turned pro in 2013 and is on the fast track towards a world title shot as he defeated Devis Boschiero in a 12-round bout in July 2016 and followed it up with a second round knockout of Claudio Rosendo Tapia in December. He will be challenged by the 22-year-old Suarez of Sinaloa, Mexico who picked up five wins in 2016 and stopped Christian Valverde in the fifth-round of his last bout.

 

An accomplished amateur who was born in Kazakhstan but fights out of California, Lipinets turned pro in April of 2014 with a decision victory over Franklin Varela. The 27-year-old recorded six knockouts in a row before stepping up in competition and impressing with a victory over Haskell Lydell Rhodes in March 2015 and a knockout of Levan Ghvamichava in March. He kept the momentum going by stopping established contender Walter Castillo in July and knocking out Lenny Zappavigna in their 140-pound title eliminator in December. He will be challenge by the Keith Thurman stablemate Booth, who fights out of St. Petersburg, Florida and defeated Cesar Soriano in his last bout.

 

# # #

 

ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA

Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlinesSHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, CBS Boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DANNY GARCIA HAS CANDID CONVERSATION ABOUT THE ROLE OF HIS FATHER & THRIVING AS AN UNDERDOG IN THE REVEAL WITH MARK KRIEGEL

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THE REVEAL with Mark Kriegel: Danny Garcia: http://s.sho.com/2m8unol

 

Danny Garcia opened up about his father Angel, his challenging childhood, and not getting the respect he deserves in an intimate conversation with award-winning reporter Mark Kriegel.  The interview is the latest in a recurring SHOWTIME Sports digital series, THE REVEAL with Mark Kriegel, featuring exclusive and in-depth interviews with boxing’s emerging stars.

 

Garcia, the WBC Welterweight World Champion, and Kriegel spoke in a wide-ranging conversation prior to his long-awaited unification showdown with fellow undefeated WBA Welterweight Champ Keith Thurman on Saturday, March 4 on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, from Barclays Center, live on CBS from 9-11 p.m. ET/6-8 p.m. PT.

 

Below are bites from THE REVEAL:

 

Garcia on his father’s incarceration while he was a child:

“I was just a kid, I was confused.  I didn’t know what was going on.  I didn’t understand until I got older.  I think that’s what motivated me today to be the best fighter I can be.

 

“The things I’ve been through as a kid – waking up on your birthday not even knowing it’s your birthday, not having a birthday cake – so it’s just a lot of things we went through in life that made me who I am today.”

 

Garcia on his father’s approach to tough parenting and coaching following a loss in the amateurs:

“I love him for that because we have a perfect chemistry.  I needed him, he needed me.  I was a talented kid, but he made me believe in myself.  I just loved boxing, I was just having fun…but to him, he was working, he was providing for the family.  This was our way out.  And once he told me that I never looked at it like that again.  I took it serious and I just became the best fighter I could be.”

 

Garcia when asked by Kriegel who is the most dangerous fighter in the division:

“Danny Garcia.  You know why?  Danny Garcia has always been the underdog and overlooked his whole career.  And I’ve never been given the credit I deserve ever since I was a little kid.  But you know what?  It’s OK.  I want people to overlook me so that when my hand is raised at the end of the night, what can they say?”

 

# # #

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA

Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

boxing, CBS Boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Erickson Lubin Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Unbeaten Super Welterweight Battles
Once-Beaten Contender Jorge Cota Saturday, March 4 on
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
From Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Douglas DeFelice/Prime 360
 
ORLANDO (February 16, 2017) – Undefeated rising star Erickson “Hammer” Lubinhosted media at his gym in his hometown of Orlando Thursday as he prepares to face once-beaten contender Jorge Cota Saturday, March 4 in a 12-round super welterweight world title eliminator on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented byPremier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
 
Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by the welterweight world title unification showdown between unbeaten fighters Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what Lubin and his trainer had to say Thursday:
 
ERICKSON LUBIN
 
“I haven’t stopped training since my last fight on December 10. We have been full throttle since.
“This is a big fight. It is a title eliminator. It is at Barclays Center. It is on CBS. You’ve got Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman in the main event. It is 12-rounds. This is definitely what I’ve dreamed of. This is the kind of opportunity that I’ve wanted. Getting to seize the moment. Going out there, dominating the fight and going on to become the mandatory challenger for the title.
“We always say that we aren’t training for the fight coming up, we’ve training for the title. I’ve prepared for this. To be the youngest world champion, we just saw Gervonta Davis do that and make history like that is a blessing. I can’t wait to go for that.
“The fans can expect straight fireworks. I am going to go out there and dominate the fight. A lot of fighters say they’re going to do something, but I am the type of guy that says it and lives up to it. March 4 fans definitely want to tune in.
[On the “Hammer” ring name] “There are hammers in my hands. They punish and do damage. A hammer with fireworks is dangerous isn’t it?
“It is my first time fighting in Brooklyn. I expect a lot of stars to be there. A lot of people having their eyes on me. I am expecting to become the mandatory for the belt and for everyone to know my name.
“2017 is a big year. To be in this position right now is a great start for the year and to become a mandatory challenger is bigger and becoming a world champion is the biggest. I want to be undisputed.”
 
JASON GALARZA, Lubin’s Trainer
“I’ve known Erickson since he was eight-years-old. He had an aura about him back then and he still has it. He continues to be a hard-working individual. He has this drive that most athletes don’t have, but the great ones do.
“There are a lot of people that don’t know of him, but there are actually a lot that do. We are going to go up to Brooklyn and show the fans at Barclays Center and the world, what we do and what he is made of.
“We have a family-based gym here. The guys that have been around Erickson from the beginning. We hit the road for the first two years of his career. We did our homework. I learned from a lot of top coaches, what to do and what not to do.
“I learned what I should and shouldn’t do to train a professional, but you can’t teach the chemistry that he and I have. When you are in with him, you are all the way in.
“People have told me that Erickson isn’t ready for Cota. I believe this is the right time. He pushes himself, he is a student of the game and always has been. The difference with this training camp from others is that we know who our opponent is. We have focused on that one individual, so we know.
“I’m from Brooklyn and I haven’t been there in about seven years. So Erickson is bringing me home.
“Fans can expect fireworks. This kid is very explosive. They will see a mature fighter at 21 years old. He will have so many more fans after March 4th.”
# # #
ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA
Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, CBS Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Keith Thurman Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Undefeated World Champion Battles Danny Garcia in Main Event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
Saturday, March 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Prime 360 Photography
 
ST. PETERSBURG, FL (February 15, 2017) – Undefeated world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman hosted media at his training camp in St. Petersburg, FL Wednesday as he prepares to face fellow welterweight world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, Saturday, March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Broadcast coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battling once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what Thurman had to say Wednesday from the St. Petersburg Boxing Club:
KEITH THURMAN
“At the end of the day, it’s just another fight. My job has not changed since I was seven years old. This is the sport that I love. The name of the game to hit and not get hit, but you know I’m looking to inflict some damage as well.
“I know Danny is confident coming into this fight. He’s trying to challenge me and hurt me. I have an ‘0’ and I’m not ready to let it go. If you think you can beat me, beat me. It’s going down on March 4.
“You can expect a world class fight. We’re both great champions with impressive skills. We’re going to be pushing each other and testing each other. I see myself as the smarter fighter. I’ve shown that I can adjust in the middle of a fight. With the experience that I have, I go in there with an objective I’m trying to achieve. If it’s not happening, then I have to use something else.
“Ultimately, my heart desires victory at this stage and at this level. I’m looking to do what I do best. Which is be a smart fighter, look for the openings and if I can cause some damage, hopefully I can capitalize on that.
“I showed against Shawn Porter that when you fully challenge me and make me gut it out, I’m there. I’m a champion and this champion doesn’t lie down for anybody. That fight was a tremendous fight and we showed that we understand each other as fighters.
“I thought to myself after eight rounds against Porter, ‘this fight is tied.’ Nothing that happened in the first eight rounds mattered. The fight was going to be decided in four rounds, just like the amateurs. I had to do what Ben Getty always said, ‘smart fighters win and dumb fighters lose.’
“I just want to keep moving myself up and establishing my legacy. I want to distinguish myself from the other welterweights. The winner of this fight will get the spotlight over everyone else in the division.
“I’m doing this for my career, for my legacy and for the fans. Without the fans, there’s no legacy. I’ve been boxing for 21 years of my life and I look forward to having some more great years. I’m proud to be living my dream.
“To get two tremendous fights back-to-back is evidence that I’m on the right track and you could say we’re gaining more power in the sport. I’m getting what I want out of the sport, which are big fights like this.
“This is something that the fans are excited about and I’m truly looking forward to this fight. I just want to keep living my dreams and working to become the best fighter in the world.
“Establishing a unification of a weight class is my ultimate goal in the sport of boxing. That’s what we’re working for.”
DAN BIRMINGHAM, Thurman’s Trainer
“The preparation has been fantastic. Keith has been on both. His long runs, short runs, sprinting, listening to everything in the gym not to mention great sparring. You are going to see a great performance.
“This is a dream come true for me. I never dreamed of this when I was Youngstown, OH before I came to Florida. When I came here there were guys like Jeff Lacy and Winky Wright that came into my gym who I’ve been fortunate enough to work with. Then came Ben Getty and Keith Thurman.
“I owe most of this to Ben Getty. I want him to get a lot of the recognition. He really deserves it. I am just trying to continue what he started.
“Fans are going to see a great performance. They are going to see a well-conditioned, well-trained Keith Thurman. He is very focused on getting rid of Garcia and moving up in the ranks.”
#          #          #
The two-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS broadcast will be just the second primetime boxing presentation on the CBS Television Network in nearly 40 years.  It is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and produced by SHOWTIME Sports® for CBS Television, both divisions of the CBS Corporation.
ABOUT THURMAN vs. GARCIA
Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia is a welterweight world title showdown between undefeated 147-pound titlists. The 12-round bout headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS, presented by Premier Boxing Champions,Saturday March 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™. In the co-main event undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin battles once-beaten knockout artist Jorge Cota in a super welterweight title eliminator bout on CBS at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @KeithFThurmanJr, @DannySwift, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.